Modern life depends heavily on cellular networks and internet connectivity. These systems work seamlessly under normal conditions, but emergencies have a way of disrupting the infrastructure we take for granted. When cell towers lose power, networks become overloaded, or you find yourself in remote areas without coverage, alternative communication methods become essential for safety and coordination.
Understanding your options for off-grid communication represents a fundamental aspect of emergency preparedness. This guide explains the five most common types of two-way radios and monitoring equipment: FRS, GMRS, CB, amateur (ham) radio, and scanners. Each serves different purposes and comes with its own capabilities, limitations, and requirements.
Why Radio Communication Matters for Preparedness
Consider a few scenarios where cellular networks might fail you. During a hunting or hiking trip in backcountry terrain, your group splits up to cover more ground, but cell service disappeared miles ago. A major storm knocks out power across your region, and cellular towers—which rely on backup batteries with limited duration—go dark. An earthquake damages infrastructure, and millions of simultaneous calls overwhelm whatever network capacity remains.
In each situation, the right radio equipment provides reliable communication when nothing else works. Radio signals travel directly between devices without requiring any external infrastructure. This independence makes radio an invaluable tool for families, outdoor enthusiasts, emergency responders, and anyone serious about preparedness.
FRS: Family Radio Service
Family Radio Service represents the simplest entry point into two-way radio communication. These compact handheld devices require no license, no registration, and minimal technical knowledge to operate effectively.
Key Characteristics
FRS radios operate on designated frequencies in the UHF band with strictly limited power output of up to 2 watts. This power restriction keeps range modest—typically between half a mile and two miles depending on terrain, obstructions, and atmospheric conditions. Urban environments with buildings reduce range significantly, while open terrain allows signals to travel farther.
Best Applications
FRS radios excel at short-range coordination in situations where family members or group participants need to stay in contact across moderate distances. Campgrounds, amusement parks, shopping trips, neighborhood events, and similar activities represent ideal use cases. The radios work well for keeping track of children at crowded venues or coordinating with hiking partners on established trails.
Licensing Requirements
No FCC license is required to purchase or operate FRS radios. You can buy a pair at most outdoor retailers and begin using them immediately. This accessibility makes FRS an excellent starting point for those new to radio communication.
GMRS: General Mobile Radio Service
General Mobile Radio Service offers significantly more capability than FRS while remaining accessible to non-technical users. GMRS radios provide greater range, higher power output, and the ability to use repeaters that extend coverage dramatically.
Key Characteristics
GMRS equipment operates on UHF frequencies with power levels up to 50 watts for mobile and base station units, though handheld devices typically max out around 5 watts. This increased power translates to substantially better range—often 5 miles or more with handheld radios, and considerably farther when using vehicle-mounted equipment or accessing repeater networks.
Best Applications
GMRS fills the gap between simple short-range communication and more complex amateur radio systems. Families spread across a neighborhood or small town can maintain contact during emergencies. Outdoor groups exploring larger areas benefit from extended range. Those with property spanning significant acreage find GMRS useful for coordination between buildings or work sites.
Licensing Requirements
Operating GMRS equipment requires an FCC license, but obtaining one involves no examination. The license costs $35 and remains valid for 10 years. One license covers the holder and their immediate family members, making it an economical choice for household preparedness. Many handheld radios support both FRS and GMRS frequencies, allowing licensed users to access the full capability while unlicensed family members stick to FRS channels.
CB: Citizens Band Radio
Citizens Band radio has served American drivers and outdoor enthusiasts for decades. While its popularity has declined since the introduction of cellular phones, CB remains useful for specific applications and requires no license to operate.
Key Characteristics
CB radios operate on 40 designated channels in the HF band around 27 MHz. Power output is limited to 4 watts for AM transmissions. Range varies considerably based on conditions—typically 1 to 5 miles for local communication, though atmospheric skip can occasionally allow contacts across much greater distances. CB equipment comes in handheld, mobile, and base station configurations.
Best Applications
CB radio remains popular among long-haul truckers, off-road enthusiasts, and rural communities. Channel 19 serves as the unofficial highway communication channel where drivers share information about traffic conditions, accidents, and road hazards. Off-road groups often use CB to coordinate on trails. The established user base means you can often find others monitoring common frequencies.
Licensing Requirements
No license is required to purchase or operate CB radio equipment in the United States. The lack of licensing requirements combined with relatively inexpensive equipment makes CB accessible to anyone interested in basic radio communication.
Amateur (Ham) Radio
Amateur radio—commonly called ham radio—represents the most capable and flexible option for emergency communication. Licensed operators gain access to numerous frequency bands, can use high-power equipment, and participate in established emergency communication networks.
Key Characteristics
Ham radio encompasses a vast range of frequencies from HF bands that can reach around the world to VHF and UHF bands suited for local and regional communication. Power limits vary by license class but can reach 1,500 watts for advanced operators. This flexibility allows communication across town, across the country, or across oceans depending on equipment, conditions, and operator skill.
Best Applications
Amateur radio shines during major emergencies when other communication systems fail. Organized groups like ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) and RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service) provide trained volunteers who support emergency management agencies during disasters. Beyond emergencies, ham radio offers a fascinating hobby with opportunities for experimentation, international contacts, and technical learning.
For those focused on off-grid communication methods, amateur radio provides unmatched capability when infrastructure fails.
Licensing Requirements
Operating amateur radio equipment requires passing an FCC examination. Three license classes exist: Technician (entry level), General (intermediate), and Amateur Extra (full privileges). The Technician exam covers basic radio theory, regulations, and operating practices. Study materials are widely available, and many people pass after a few weeks of preparation. Local amateur radio clubs often offer testing sessions and classes for newcomers.
Radio Scanners
Unlike the previous options, scanners are receive-only devices. They cannot transmit but instead monitor radio traffic across a wide range of frequencies, providing valuable situational awareness during emergencies.
Key Characteristics
Modern scanners can monitor thousands of frequencies including public safety, aviation, marine, weather, amateur radio, and various commercial services. Digital scanners can decode trunked radio systems used by many police and fire departments. Range depends on the scanner's sensitivity and the distance to transmitting stations.
Best Applications
Scanners provide real-time information about developing situations in your area. During wildfires, severe weather, or other emergencies, monitoring local emergency services frequencies offers insight into conditions, evacuations, and response efforts that may not reach news outlets for hours. Weather enthusiasts use scanners to track storm spotters and emergency management communications. Those interested in aviation can monitor air traffic control.
Licensing Requirements
No license is required to own or operate a radio scanner. However, some jurisdictions restrict mobile use of scanners or prohibit using them to facilitate crimes. Check local regulations before installing a scanner in a vehicle.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Needs
Selecting appropriate radio equipment depends on your specific communication requirements, technical interest, and willingness to obtain licenses.
For Basic Family Communication
Start with FRS radios for immediate, no-hassle capability. If you need more range or plan to communicate across a neighborhood or small town, consider obtaining a GMRS license and upgrading to more capable equipment.
For Road Travel and Off-Roading
CB radio provides communication with other travelers and a established community of users. No license required, and equipment remains affordable.
For Serious Emergency Preparedness
Amateur radio offers the most robust communication capability when infrastructure fails. The licensing requirement filters out casual users and ensures operators have basic technical competence. Many preparedness-minded individuals find the study process educational and the resulting capabilities well worth the effort.
For Situational Awareness
A quality scanner supplements any communication plan by letting you monitor emergency services, weather broadcasts, and other radio traffic relevant to developing situations.
Integrating Radio Into Your Preparedness Plan
Communication capability represents one of the essential pillars of preparedness. Having the right radio equipment—and knowing how to use it—ensures you can coordinate with family members, receive critical information, and call for help when conventional systems fail.
Consider your specific risks and scenarios when selecting equipment. Urban dwellers facing potential grid failures have different needs than rural residents concerned about wildfires or those who spend time in remote backcountry. The best approach often involves multiple tools: simple FRS radios for immediate family coordination, a scanner for monitoring local emergency traffic, and perhaps GMRS or amateur radio capability for extended-range communication.
Whatever equipment you choose, practice using it regularly. Familiarity with your radios, their range limitations, and proper operating procedures ensures you can communicate effectively when it matters most. Store spare batteries with your emergency supplies and include radio equipment in your bug out bag planning.
Browse Mountain Ready's selection of communication equipment to find the right tools for staying connected during any emergency.
