11 Best Walkie Talkie For Hiking in 2024 | LydiaScapes

Best Walkie Talkie For Hiking

One of the most important tools we bring with us when hiking no matter what country we’re in is our walkie talkies. Preparing yourself for an emergency, accident, bad weather or in the case you get separated from others, is good practice even if you aren’t a professional mountaineer or hiker. It’s important to consider walkie-talkies for your next beautiful hiking trip that will include durability, long-lasting battery life, and strong signals. If you’re looking for a reliable walkie talkie for hiking as a frequent trekker, here are some of the best we’ve found on the market, and have included a buying guide and some FAQs to help you choose.

Best Walkie Talkie For Hiking

What is the Best Walkie Talkie For Hiking?

Below you’ll find the list of the top 11 Best Walkie Talkie For Hiking. We compiled this list from walkie talkies for hiking we have used, asked others about, and researched further to give you the best possible roundup. With many years of experience with walkie talkies for hiking you can be assured that this article will give you what you’re looking for.

We also wrote a buying guide and answered some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) at the end of this article.

1. Topsung M880 FRS Wakie-Talkies

Topsung M880 FRS Wakie-Talkies
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 0.18 pounds (0.08 kg)
Size: 6.3 x 3.1 x 2.4 inches (16 x 8 x 6 cm)
Range: 4-16 miles
Battery Life: 72-96 hours
Power Source: 6 AA batteries
Continuous Talktime:

Topsung M880 two way radio is a quality walkie talkie that has the ability to cover a long range of about 4-16 miles. The radio portability also makes it light and easy to be carried around by children for a long period of time. Also, they utilize 6AA batteries which gives it a long stand-by time that is usually up to 3-4 days. Furthermore, the two way radio is made up of smart automatic software that helps you to store memory and other settings and also block squelch noises. It can also send notificatons concerning low battery and switching to power saving mode automatically. While the customer service for this brand is good, the cost of always having to replace the rechargeable batteries frequently might be something to bear in mind.

Pros

  • Light-weight and child-friendly,
  • FCC warranty for return in 30 days,
  • Functions like the auto squelch system that blocks white noises automatically

Cons

  • Battery is not durable.

2. Topsung NOAA 3 Pack Rechargeable Handheld Two Way Radio

Topsung NOAA 3 Pack Rechargeable Handheld Two Way Radio
Specs
Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 0.99 pounds (0.45 kg)
Size: 6.1 x 2.2 x 1.3 inches (15.5 x 5.6 x 3.3 cm)
Range: 16 miles
Battery Life: 48 hours
Power Source: 1000mAh NiMH AA rechargeable batteries
Continuous Talktime: 18 hours

The Topsung NOAA 3 Pack Rechargeable Handheld Two Way Radio is suitable for both kids and their parents because of the fun design and variety of functions. Along with wide/narrow bandwidth selection, you gain access to 22 channels with 38 CTCSS and 83 DCS privacy codes. Also, the walkie-talkies come with NOAA weather scanning and alerts, VOX, and channel scan.

The backlit LCD screen makes it easier to adjust the volume or find your favorite call tone. The button lock would be a nice addition here, as the included function locks only the menu. The micro-USB charging port gives you freedom so you can refill the battery without having to carry the dock station. Lastly, the housing is not very durable here, but the price is affordable.

Pros

  • 22 channels with 38 CTCSS and 83 DCS privacy codes,
  • Backlit LCD screen,
  • Scan, VOX, and NOAA weather alert,
  • Adjustable volume and call tones

Cons

  • Housing could be more durable,
  • The lock function doesn’t work properly

3. MOICO 22 FRS Channels Long Range Walkie Talkies

MOICO 22 FRS Channels Long Range Walkie Talkies
Specs
Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 0.88 pounds (0.4 kg)
Size: 6.3 x 5 x 3.3 inches (16.1 x 12.7 x 8.4 cm)
Range: 3-5 miles
Battery Life: 48 hours
Power Source: AAA batteries

MOICO walkie talkie is a 22 FRS channel radio that can be used for both indoors and outdoor activities like camping. It has the ability to transmit signals through a long distance of about 3-5 miles. You can transmit information by pressing the push to talk button or by using VOX voice activation. The VOX has a great sensitivity, after you activitate it, you can put the radio in front and around your upper body so that it can pick your voice and send signals directly without using the push-to-talk button. However, it also gives clear and quality sound to the receiver when you transmit signals. It also has an LCD screen that gives a green backlight for visibility at night. You should also know that it is difficult to access the battery compartment because of the belt clip obstructing it.

Pros

  • Water resistant,
  • Suitable for both indoors and outdoors actvities,
  • Light weight and portability,
  • In-built LED torch for emergencies and flashlight,
  • Transmits quality sounds.

Cons

  • Poor battery quality,
  • Difficult to access the battery compartment due to the belt clip.

4. Professional Rechargeable Walkie Talkies

Professional Rechargeable Walkie Talkies
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 0.55 pounds (0.25 kg)
Size: 2 x 1.4 x 2.2 inches (5 x 3.5 x 5.5 cm)
Range: Up to 10 miles
Battery Life: 48 hours
Power Source: ‎6 Lithium Polymer batteries

The Professional Rechargeable Walkie Talkies has all the standard qualities one would expect from a typical walkie-talkie. It has 22 channels each with 121 privacy codes; can be charged using a USB port (no worries about suddenly losing power); compatible with any other FRS radio; and has an easy voice activation feature to provide a hands-free experience. However, one thing to note is that the advertised feature of being “rechargable” may be misleading as it apparently refers to the chargability of any rechargable batteries you placed within them. However, this can be easily remedied with using rechargable batteries. Overall, this is a basic walkie without any frills that can serve your usage on a camping trip, but again, this is subjective and depends on your usage.

Pros

  • 22 channels each with 121 privacy codes totalling 2662 combinations,
  • Can be charged with a USB charging port,
  • Compatible with any other FRS radio,
  • Easy voice and sound activation to provide a hands-free experience.

Cons

  • “Rechargable batteries” in the product description may be misleading as separate rechargable batteries will have to be purchased for it to be ‘chargable’,
  • Instruction manual can be improved.

5. Gocom G600 FRS 2W Long Range Walkie Talkies

Gocom G600 FRS 2W Long Range Walkie Talkies
Specs
Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 0.22 pounds (0.1 kg)
Size: 2.2 x 1.6 x 7.1 inches (5.5 x 4 x 18 cm)
Range: Up to 32 miles
Battery Life: Up to about 15 hours continuous using time and it can standby for about 20 days
Power Source: 6 AA batteries

IPX4 waterproof-certified, this Gocom walkie talkie is designed to withstand any rainy/snowy weather you will encounter in the great outdoors. This also makes it perfect for outdoor water activities. It has a nifty feature that scans through the 11 weather channels available and locks into the one with the strongest signal to provide you with up-to-date weather reports. In case of incoming adverse weather conditions, it even has a 1050Hz weather alarm that activates so you don’t miss out on it. The automatic power saving mode will be enabled if there are no transmissions within 5 seconds which is a handy feature to help you save on your battery life. However, a frequent complaint among some users is that since FRS walkies are very susceptible to external interferences and any obstacle within the path that will greatly influence the signal strength, they encounter connectivity issues. Hence, be mindful how best to use it based on the terrain you’re going to use the walkie on.

Pros

  • IPX4 waterproof design to withstand any rainy/snowy weather with water-resistant keypad,
  • Automatically scan through the 11 weather channels available and locks in to the strongest to alert you in case of incoming bad weather,
  • Has a 1050Hz weather alarm if the risk is severe,
  • Automatic power saving mode will be enabled if no transmissions are detected within 5 seconds.

Cons

  • Only water resistant and not waterproof,
  • Maximum working range may not always be as advertised.

6. Retevis RT22 Rechargeable Voice Activated Walkie Talkies

Retevis RT22 Rechargeable Voice Activated Walkie Talkies
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 1.01 pounds (0.46 kg)
Size: 8.8 x 7.2 x 3.9 inches (22.3 x 18.4 x 10 cm)
Range: 1-2 miles
Battery Life: 10-12 hours
Power Source: 4 lithium ion batteries

Retevis RT22 rechargeable walkie talkie is specifically made for outdoor activities like skiing, hunting, camping and hiking. It is portable in size and it is also powered by 4 lithium ion batteries. This radio has an emergency button that you can press when in an emergency situation and it also automatically saves the battery life when it is not in use. They offer a 2 years warranty and 2 months warranty for the radio accessories. The two-way radio has a short and fixed antenna which makes it easy for you handle and pocket, but the antenna can cause limitations in the range covered by the radio because it is short and can not be replaced.

Pros

  • 2 years warranty from the customer service,
  • Portability,
  • Provides VOX voice function, An emergency alarm button you can press during emergency situations, An auto-squelch function,
  • Automatic power saving mode

Cons

  • No display screen,
  • A short, fixed and irreplaceable antenna,
  • Specifically for outdoor activities

7. Luiton LT-458 Long-Distance 2-Way Radio

Luiton LT-458 Long-Distance 2-Way Radio
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 5 x 2 x 1 inches (12.7 x 5.1 x 2.5 cm)
Range: up to 3.6 miles
Battery Life: 4-8 days
Power Source: 1500mAh Li-ion batteries
Continuous Talktime: 6-12 hours

While the Luiton LT-458 Long-Distance 2-Way Radio leaves an impression of a classic walkie-talkie, it comes with multiple features like VOX for hands-free operation and Voice Scrambler for secret communication. The standby time of 1 week is outstanding, especially with its ultra-thin design. In addition, you’ll get a belt clip to make it simpler to carry.

Unfortunately, you’ll need to buy a programming cable if you want to enable VOX feature, and this increases the price of this budget-friendly model. On the other hand, it will take the customization to the next level.

The charging station allows placing an empty battery on it either with or without a radio. The built-in indicator will tell you when it’s full.

Pros

  • Slim and easy-to-carry design,
  • Voice Scrambler function,
  • Impressive battery life,
  • Allows recharging the detached battery

Cons

  • Cheap earpiece,
  • VOX and other features require programming

8. MTM 22 Channels Hands-Free VOX Walkie Talkies

MTM 22 Channels Hands-Free VOX Walkie Talkies
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 14 pounds (6.35 kg)
Size: 6.7 x 4.7 x 3.3 inches (17 x 11.9 x 8.3 cm)
Range: Up to 3 miles
Battery Life: 48 hours
Power Source: 3 rechargeable AA batteries

The MTM Walkie Talkies has all the standard qualities one would expect of a run-of-the-mill walkie. From having the generic 22 channels with 121 privacy codes to hands-free VOX activation, it also has a LCD display to provide vision at night. It is perfect for people who wishes to stay connected during emergencies or for those who wants to stay connected while engaging in outdoor activities. Despite a minority of users noting that the signal might be weak while used in urban environments and the batteries tending to run out fast, these can be easily circumvented.

Pros

  • Comply with FCC standards,
  • 22 channels each with 121 privacy codes to prevent any external interference,
  • Hands-free VOX activation,
  • LCD backlit display day or night.

Cons

  • Potentially weaker signal when used in an urban environment with man-made infrastructure around,
  • Batteries may drain quite fast depending on usage.

9. Baofeng Long Range FRS Two Way Radios with Earpiece BF-888s

Baofeng Long Range FRS Two Way Radios with Earpiece BF-888s
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 14 x 9.3 x 2.5 inches (35.6 x 23.5 x 6.3 cm)
Range: Up to 5 km
Battery Life: 5-7 days
Power Source: 1500mAh rechargeable lithium ion battery
Continuous Talktime: 8-12 hours

The Baofeng Long Range Two Way Walkie Talkie is the only one on this list that features an emergency alarm that can be activated should you need it in times of crisis. It also features a LED screen to provide slight illumination in the dark. However, there is a reputation that this walkie-talkie may come pre-set not on an FRS frequency as advertised, which might take one with programming knowledge to reset it to the desired frequency. Despite this, the Baofeng Long Range Two Way Walkie Talkie is claimed to be operating on its own unique frequency that makes it incompatible with otther brands and models. This can be both a positive or negative point depending on whether you intend to use it in tandem with another device.

Pros

  • Built-in LED light on screen to illuminate in the dark,
  • 16 channels with 50 CTCSS and 105 CDCSS,
  • Noise reduction to allow for crisp transmission,
  • Emergency alarm function in cases of emergencies.

Cons

  • FRS function might not work as well,
  • Might not compatible with other devices as it supposedly works on their own pre-programmed channels.

10. NXGKET 2-Way Rechargeable Radio

NXGKET 2-Way Rechargeable Radio
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 7 x 2.4 x 2 inches (17.8 x 6 x 5 cm)
Range: 3-5 miles
Battery Life: 12 hours
Power Source: 1200mAh Li-ion batteries
Continuous Talktime: up to 6 hours

Coming in four different colors, the NXGKET 2-Way Rechargeable Radios offer 22 channels with 121 sub-codes. The signal can go for up to 5 miles in open, and the rugged design provides fantastic protection against impacts.

These bright walkie-talkies boast various automatic functions like squelch, memory scan, and switch on/off. Thanks to the large backlit display, it is very straightforward to use and customize.

Our only gripe is the poor quality of some buttons, so you’ll need more effort to press them. Also, some owners weren’t satisfied with the built-in speaker. In some conditions, these may be too quiet.

Nevertheless, the product is an optimal choice for beginner hikers, mountaineers, and even kids.

Pros

  • Bright and compact design,
  • Large backlit LCD screen,
  • Auto squelch, memory, scan, and power-saving modes,
  • Impact-resistant housing

Cons

  • Speaker is too quiet,
  • Low-quality buttons

11. Wishouse Portable Rechargeable Walkie Talkies for Hiking

Wishouse Portable Rechargeable Walkie Talkies for Hiking
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 6.3 x 2.3 x 1.2 inches (16 x 5.8 x 3.1 cm)
Range: up to 16 miles
Battery Life: up to 24 hours
Power Source: 1000mAh NiMH rechargeable batteries
Continuous Talktime: 3+ hours

If you are searching for a set of radios for kids that don’t feel flimsy, you’ve come to the right place because the Wishouse Portable Rechargeable Walkie Talkies for Hiking can offer everything you need. You can find these radios in different colors so every crewmate gets one according to their preference. The best part here is that this model has 22 channels that are compatible with most two-way walkie-talkies.

The product comes with a backlit screen that shows current settings and gives access to VOX, keypad lock, and selectable call tones. As for the power options, you can either use rechargeable batteries or buy an extra set of alkaline ones to prolong the operation time if need be. The built-in power-saving function activates automatically to extend the batteries’ life.

It’s a shame that the talk button can be too hard to press for children. Lastly, the max signal range needs improvements, too.

Pros

  • 22 channels and two power options,
  • Backlit LCD screen and flashlight, VOX, auto power-saving function, keypad lock, and adjustable call tones,
  • Come with belt clips, lanyards, USB cables, and adapters

Cons

  • The talk button can be hard to press for kids,
  • Max signal range could be better

Verdict

Based on all of our experience with walkie talkies for hiking, we found that Topsung M880 FRS Wakie-Talkies is the best walkie talkie for hiking available today.

Our Premium Option is Topsung NOAA 3 Pack Rechargeable Handheld Two Way Radio with all the best features and high-quality materials, but that’s only if you have more money to spend.

However, if you are on a slightly tighter budget, you can also consider the MOICO 22 FRS Channels Long Range Walkie Talkies as an affordable alternative.

Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:

What You Should Know Before Buying walkie talkies for hiking

Belt Clip

Apart from the standard components of a walkie-talkie, a belt clip is also considered an important part of it. It allows you to keep your hands free from holding the bulky walkie-talkie set while continuing the communication over a wirelessly attached earpiece.

There is a range of belt clips available from the original equipment manufacturers but you can also use a cross-brand compatible belt clip with your walkie-talkie. Make sure to have a test run before buying because it may face hindrances in connectivity or signal broadcasting.

Weight

The weight and size of a walkie talkie is determined by the weight of the battery that powers it. Walkie talkie that uses lithium ion battery are usually the lightest in weight, this makes them easier and more portable to carry than the other types of radio. The lithium battery also helps to prevent the radio from frequent memory burn and overcharging. But they use a special charger that is different from other radios and they are the most expensive type of battery in the market. you should also know that small size walkie talkies have limitations in the range they can cover because of the reduced antenna and transmitter. Radios that are light weight are good for outdoor events like camping and hiking because you will be convinient moving with it for a long period of time. But because of the limitations in the range that they can cover, you might be at a disadvantage when you need to send a message through a far distance. Walkie Talkies of bigger sizes and weight are suitable for outdoor event also because of their ability to cover long distances.

Questions and Answers About walkie talkies for hiking

Do walkie talkies work in the wilderness?

Walkie-talkies work in the wilderness because the workings of a two-way radio that is not dependent on cellular network coverage to communicate. Cell phones, which are a common mode of communication in cities and less remote areas, may not work in such situations as the wilderness due to lack of cellular coverage, but because walkie-talkies do not require this technology to communicate, they are an ideal way to connect and interact while on wilderness adventures and explorations.

Can you use a ham radio as a walkie talkie?

Technically yes, a ham radio has a much broader range of 8W compared to a GRMS walkie of up to 5W of power. However, it is illegal in the US to connect ham with RS/GRMS walkies. First off there’s an issue with licenses. FRS walkie operators is not required to be FCC registered while GRMS walkie users require an FCC license. As for ham radios, users willl have to go through tests in order to obtain up to 3 levels of licenses. If ham radio connect with GRMS/FRS walkies, it may cause them to go over their legal frequency.

Can you talk to a CB with a walkie talkie?

CB Radio stands for citizen band radio and is a two-way radio communication system similar to walkie-talkies. Even though CB and walkie-talkies use the same radio waves technology system, CB and walkie-talkies do not communicate since they use separate frequency channels.
While CB radios operate on a frequency of 27MegaHertz to communicate, walkie-talkies use a frequency of 30 MegaHertz to 300MegaHertz.
CB will only transmit over CB and not over walkie-talkie or any other two-way radio based on the core principle of a radio system that must operate on the same frequency channel for them to talk to each other.

Are walkie talkies good for hiking?

Yes walkie talkies are a really good option for hiking because they work in areas where there is no 3G for 4G signals. Though you may be unable to make a call or send a message, with the help of a walkie talkie you remain connected with your friends and family.

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