Lifestyle Fashion

Two-Way Radios and Summer Camps: What You Need to Know

Summer camp is in my blood. I started working at our local Boy Scout camp at age 14 and spent the next 8 summers working on the camp staff. I worked as a counselor, on the ranger staff, in the mess hall, and almost every other job except as a camp director. I know you, your passion for kids and camping, and the disdain you have when you think about buying more two-way radios. I hope this article gives you a little insight into the different kinds of two-way radios available to you, along with some pros and cons.

Two-way radios manufacturers and the FCC have classified two-way radios into different classes, FRS, Commercial Commercial, and Professional. While prices increase with each rating, the radios are not necessarily better. Yes, there are more features and maybe more durability, but a walkie talkie is just a walkie talkie. Buying more two-way radios than you need does not mean you will have a better walkie talkie experience. This is what to look for.

Wattage A typical summer camp is held on at least one campus and often on hundreds of acres in the woods. Portable two-way radios come in watts ranging from 1 to 5 watts. The more watts, the more range, but going from 1 to watts will not double your range. Each increase in power generally provides 20% more range. The most important thing you can do to increase your range is to invest in affordable two-way digital radios.

UHF or VHF. I always recommend UHF because UHF penetrates buildings and trees better.

FRS, business, commercial or professional. No summer camp should use a professional two-way radio unless it has been provided free of charge. We also do not suggest that you use FRS two-way radios. You’ll find that the batteries and audio quality leave something to be desired. There are affordable commercial and commercial two-way radios at various prices. They will give you the best value for your money.

Waterproof or not? The only employees who need waterproof two-way radios are those who are thrown into the lake. As long as the radio you are looking for has an IP54 or higher durability rating, your walkie talkies will be durable enough to withstand any storm that comes your way.

Compatibility. Don’t buy something that will make your existing two-way radios obsolete. The more walkie talkies you have in the camp, the safer your camp will be. Most manufacturers make two-way radios that are compatible with other two-way radios. It is important to note that two-way UHF radios will not work with two-way VHF radios.

Budget. Two-way radios range in price from $ 20 a pair to $ 2,000 each. The vast majority of campgrounds can use a 5-watt radio with lots of channels and lots of battery life in this price range.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *