Forum Discussion

bluebarry1964b's avatar
Feb 26, 2014

good quality 2-way radios with headset recommendations

My wife is driving behind the RV when we go on trips, as we take two cars with us. We tried using our cell phones to communicate, but I'm finding that isn't the safest way to go. I was thinking of getting a couple of 2-way radio headsets. Hoping to find ones that either plug into the cigarette lighter or that have enough charge to last 10-12 hours between charges. Any ideas?
  • I really can't see how a properly used set of cell phones are less safe than a set of walkie talkies...a cheap set of walkies require one to push a button to talk, thereby causing more interference with your attention to driving than a cell phone with an earpiece....Dennis
  • We've used Motorola FRS radios when in caravan and are happy with them.

    They go for around $50 a pair (and up). I prefer the AA dry batts (3 in each unit) and one set will last 3 days w/o turning the units off. Rechargables don't last as long and seem to be dead when we need them.

    There are hands off accessories readily available (see Amazon).

    The down side is they claim a huge range but in reality are line of sight. On an open highway, in a straight line, miles of range. If you go around or over a hill, no connection.

    Advantage over a cell phone is it is immediate. No waiting for one to answer. Ex: you need to shout a warning, deer on the road, stalled car etc. They work in areas w/o cell service. Usually, it's more like, wow, did you see that...

    Norm
  • We bought the Motorola's from Costco, they're priced right and are rechargeable with a USB charging port. The USB charging is what makes them handy. They run about 8-10 hours depending on use.
  • RoyB wrote:

    Just be aware the FRS radios are on a public radio network much like the old CB bands and is not private. Others may hear your radio transmissions...

    back in the olden days my first CB radios had individual channel specific modules you had to buy extra and install plug in.
    I gained a small degree of privacy by putting in two different channels, say 4 and 6 but had it so one radio broadcast on 6 and the other one received on 6 and vice versa with 4. people could hear half of our conversations and quickly got tired of spying.
    bumpy
  • RoyB wrote:
    Pickup a couple of MIDLAND GXT1000VP4 3 FRS radios from AMAZON.

    Be sure the packaga comes with Pair of radios, belt clips, desktop charger, rechargeable batteries, pair of mic headsets, AC wall adapter, and DC (vehicle) adapter.



    Just be aware the FRS radios are on a public radio network much like the old CB bands and is not private. Others may hear your radio transmissions... Also this is a very popular radio net to use and when you get into populated areas you will hear others using the same frequencies. These radios should be Voice Operated just like your cell phones... I always wear my ear piece on the right ear to make it more non-visible from outside the truck. You can select PRIVATE communications and not hear others using the same frequency but if two of you are ON at the same time you may not hear your other private party.

    We use ours in GATLINBURG alot while the wife hits all the shops and stores and I head for the mountain trails for a few hours. These radios are line of sight with only a mile or so range...

    These are not expensive - AMAZON lists the pair for $62 - Like on CB NO FCC license required.

    Roy Ken


    We use these at work sometimes when our wireless telex is getting too much interference. They are excellent and a very good deal.
  • Some states do not allow both ears to be covered with headphones. Some make sure you get a set with only one ear plug.
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    Pickup a couple of MIDLAND GXT1000VP4 3 FRS radios from AMAZON.

    Be sure the packaga comes with Pair of radios, belt clips, desktop charger, rechargeable batteries, pair of mic headsets, AC wall adapter, and DC (vehicle) adapter.



    Just be aware the FRS radios are on a public radio network much like the old CB bands and is not private. Others may hear your radio transmissions... Also this is a very popular radio net to use and when you get into populated areas you will hear others using the same frequencies. These radios should be Voice Operated just like your cell phones... I always wear my ear piece on the right ear to make it more non-visible from outside the truck. You can select PRIVATE communications and not hear others using the same frequency but if two of you are ON at the same time you may not hear your other private party.

    We use ours in GATLINBURG alot while the wife hits all the shops and stores and I head for the mountain trails for a few hours. These radios are line of sight with only a mile or so range...

    These are not expensive - AMAZON lists the pair for $62 - Like on CB NO FCC license required.

    Roy Ken
  • how much jabbering do you have to do driving down the road. why not just a set of radios, cobras from wal mart 3 price levels and pick em up and talk if needed.
    wearing a head set will attract the fuzz.
    bumpy
  • Motorola
    Good model and price at Costco.

    We have them, but have been mostly using our cell phone instead....even for backing into tight camp sites, etc.