Cell phone or Walkie Talkie for 8 YO DGD

SteveAE wrote:
How about a simple whistle?
Everyone in the party could have one. Sure, if used, it would draw attention. But, for a "separated child" who cares.
If you go this route, get a traditional one (with a ball) for best (loudest) output.

Have fun,
Steve

Thanks for the reminder.. I had thought of this too but forgotten! It's going on my list!

downtheroad wrote:
Please don't take this the wrong way...but, I would never let myself get, "separated," from an 8 year old.

I understand completely, but things do happen! I'm just trying to be proactive!!

How about a simple whistle?
Everyone in the party could have one. Sure, if used, it would draw attention. But, for a "separated child" who cares.
If you go this route, get a traditional one (with a ball) for best (loudest) output.

Have fun,
Steve

naturist wrote:
...I think you will find that a $25 pair of walkie-talkies, with a maximum range of 25 miles (and a more likely range under the sort of conditions likely in Yellowstone of perhaps 5 miles)...

a pair of FRS radios would have a reliable 5-mi range on a prairie, desert or lake. otherwise maybe a mile. FRS is very low power FM and operates line-of-sight.

I believe in preparing for anything that is possible, and would go with walkie talkies and a lot of good training. My kids knew how to operate my radios at that age. But, as a 50 some year operator and a former two way radio technician, I can guarantee you that you will not get anywhere near 25 miles of communication, unless you are going from one mountain top to another. Your maximum usable range will be more like 1 mile or less, depending on how much interference you have at the time. Still, that's better than nothing.

Guy

Walkie Talkie... cell phone service is unreliable in the park at many of the attractions.

downtheroad wrote:
Please don't take this the wrong way...but, I would never let myself get, "separated," from an 8 year old.

Me either. But I think what we are really dealing with here is the simple fear that such a thing could happen.

We all know it is highly improbable. But always possible with any 8 year old. IMHO, the OP is looking for a Plan B.

Also IMHO, any 8 year old capable of staying cool enough to radio for help is also capable of paying attention to not wandering off. But that's just my opinion, and what do I really know?

"In case you get separated" covers a LOT of distance, but practically speaking, would it not be reasonable that there is a maximum possible distance here? Surely 25 miles is the limit, no?

Cell phone service inside the park is very spotty to non-existent. I think you will find that a $25 pair of walkie-talkies, with a maximum range of 25 miles (and a more likely range under the sort of conditions likely in Yellowstone of perhaps 5 miles) but coverage EVERYWHERE will be more useful. What's more, should such a separation occur, the walkie talkie will be able to connect directly with any/every searcher in range with minimal fuss.

But honestly, I doubt you will need either. The odds of "getting separated" are pretty small.

And when you get done with the trip, the DGD will have a great toy for playing with other kids back home. Or you and your SO can use it for communicating while trying to back the RV into that tight spot late at night when it is pitch black and there are neighbors unlikely to be sympathetic at the shouting while they are trying to sleep.

Please don't take this the wrong way...but, I would never let myself get, "separated," from an 8 year old.