Now that the lockdowns are slowly being lifted in various parts of the world, life is getting back to normal gradually. Also, summers are here!
If you are thinking about planning your long-awaited hiking or camping trip – now is the time. And when you talk about these trips, one thing that you just can’t compromise on is communication. For that, you need to have the best walkie talkie set with you.
Read also: How To Prevent Snakebites While Hiking
Top Waterproof Walkie Talkies to Buy in 2021
Having a walkie talkie set is one thing, having a waterproof walkie talkie set is just another. Yes, we have all the modern-day weather forecast apps in our phones these days, however, those rough terrains and challenging conditions can always result in sudden weather changes that you might not have predicted.
In these conditions, you need to have a waterproof walkie talkie that can resist exposure to water. Here is our top list:
1. Motorola T600 Talkabout Radio
The T600 series of Motorola is one of the better walkie talkie sets ever produced by this brand. Even the newer models aren’t believed to perform the way this model does – particularly in bad weather conditions.
This model comes with 22 channels, NOAA alerts and its battery life competes with any of the top waterproof two-way radios that you will find in the market these days. In addition to this, the design is quite sleek, and build quality is strong – this ensures it doesn’t break or malfunctions under tough conditions.
The downside of this model is that it might not perform too well when there is an elevation change. Increasing or decreasing height might cause voice distortion while communicating.
Via Amazon.com
Pros
Compatibility with other radio sets
Highly waterproof
Long battery life
Cons
Not suitable for elevation change
2. Midland - GXT1000VP4 Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkie
The Midland two-way waterproof radio is a pretty decent option if you are looking for a walkie talkie that offers an extreme range. With a 36 mile range, this radio set performs really well with its Easy Voice and Sound Activation Transmission (eVOX) functionality that comes with 9 sensitivity levels for a 100% hands-free mode.
The 50 GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) channels help you in staying connected to a large channel network. The 142 privacy codes enable you to block other ongoing conversations on the frequency you’re on. Moreover, it has 10 weather channels and notifies you whenever there is any update related to bad weather.
Via Amazon.com
Pros
36 mile range
50 GMRS channels
142 privacy codes
NOAA weather alerts
Silent Operation
Cons
This is not fully waterproof
3. DEWALT DXFRS300 Heavy Duty Walkie Talkies
The Dewalt long range, two-way radio is one of the better options in this line of products. With up to 250k sq. ft. or 20 floors of signal range, this radio can come in quite handy if you need a walkie talkie set that can cover long range communication.
The best part about this radio set is that it’s not only waterproof, but shock resistant and dust proof as well. With an ability to withstand water exposure for up to 30 minutes in a water depth of 1 meter, this radio set can also absorb a 2-meter drop shock and has a design that resists against slippery surfaces.
Via Amazon.com
Pros
Long range
Waterproof
Voice activated
Shock resistant
22 preset channels
Can rotate at 180 degree angle
Cons
The antenna might create issues with range at times (reported by users)
4. COBRA ACXT1035R FLT Walkie Talkies
With 2662 different channel combinations and 121 privacy codes to filter out unwanted conversations, the Cobra two-way waterproof radio set will give you the work efficiency and performance that you expect from a walkie talkie radio set on your next camping trip.
This radio set comes with an extended 37-mile signal range, built-in NOAA radio receiver, VOX voice activated transmissions and features like built-in LED and S.O.S. flashlight. Moreover, its floating design helps the device to stay afloat, in case you drop it in water. Also, it has a feature that automatically records the last 20 seconds of any incoming audio call.
Via Amazon.com
Pros
37 mile long range
Floating design helps find the device if dropped in water
Alerts for incoming signals and weather updates
Highly waterproof
Cons
The display is too small, particularly for those with eyesight problems
5. Motorola Talkabout T465 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio
With a range of up to 35 miles, the T465 series by Motorola will ensure that you stay in touch with your partner during your whole camping, hiking, or kayaking trip. Although the actual range varies according to the conditions and terrain, this 2-way waterproof radio set has a better signal range than most of the products in this range.
It also has an emergency alert button that you can use if you are in grave danger. By doing this, it will send an alert signal and a sound as well to make others aware of your emergency or dangerous situation.
Via Amazon.com
Pros
22 channels with 121 privacy codes
Comes with an emergency alert button
Push-to-Talk (PPT) power boost option – extends the transmission range when required
Cons
In some terrains or conditions, sound quality and clarity might not be as the older models
Wrapping Up our Waterproof Walkie Talkies Guide
Walkie talkies are one of those must-have part of equipment before you leave for your next adventurous trip. Make sure that you know the features that you actually need, and never compromise on the waterproof element of these radio sets.
These devices can literally decide whether someone lives or dies. Communication is one part that can be the deal-breaker during difficult situations or dangers.
Have a safe adventure!