Some Ideas on Amateur Radio – The Beginner's Guide for Preppers You Should Know

Ham radios are generally broken up into "handie-talkies" (HTs) that are easy to bring by hand and foot in the field, "mobile" radios that are meant for vehicles, and larger "base stations" implied to sit on a desktop. Although all of the types are relatively small and might theoretically be picked up and taken with you, HTs are the ideal option for the majority of people's main bug out bag/ emergency situation kit checklist due to the fact that you desire to have the ability to take a trip with the least amount of equipment.

Have a look at the novice's guide if you're brand-new to ham radio or curious why it's the best option for prepping. Other ham guides: HTs deal with the VHF and UHF bands, which can make contacts at short and medium distances about 1 to 40 miles, depending upon your elevation and surrounding terrain.

If a repeater connects to the web over something like Echo, Link, you can talk to individuals all over the world. HTs can even reach satellites like the International Area Station, however that's typically not useful for emergency situations. The High Frequency bands (HF) can reach even more than standard VHF/UHF. There technically aren't any handie-talkie HF designs, but there are some HF designs little enough that some individuals take them out in the field typically simply for funsies, less so practical usages.

: Quick pointer that you do not require a license to listen, however you do require one to send. Read More Here if you transfer without a license in a bonafide emergency situation. But radio takes practice, so you must get certified (it's easy!) and find out how to use this equipment before an emergency.

All the parts combined might be the size of 2 decks of cards and weigh less than a pound. HTs may not make sense for you if you live in a separated area without any other hams/ repeaters nearby, considering that the HT variety is restricted. If in doubt, purchase an inexpensive one and test what remains in your area before investing or deciding further.