A two-way radio keeps family members in touch over short distances when phones and cell networks are down or overloaded. It lets you check in, share news and coordinate safely during a two-week bug in or a stretch of civil unrest.
Choose two-way radios that keep your household talking when cell service drops. Every family member should be able to run them without a manual.
- Enough handsets: Stock one radio per adult or teen, plus a spare for a neighbor or a second car.
- Realistic range: Plan on one to two miles in town, since buildings and hills cut the distances printed on the box.
- Power options: Pick models that run on both rechargeable packs and standard AA batteries, and put by enough fresh batteries for two weeks.
- Weather resistance: Look for a water-resistant rating and a rugged case that survives a drop on pavement.
- Simple controls: Favor clear channel buttons, privacy codes and a weather alert channel so anyone can call in.
- License rules: Match the radio to your plan, since FRS radios need no license while GMRS radios require one for the household.
