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 in almost every other job except as a camp manager. I know you, your passion for Kids and Camp, and the disdain you have when you think of buying more two-way radios. I hope this article provides you with a bit of information on the different classes of two way radios available to you along with some pros and cons.

Two-way radio manufacturers and the FCC have classified two-way radios into different classes, FRS, Business Commercial, and Professional. While the prices increase with each rating, the radios aren’t necessarily better. Yes, there are more features and perhaps more durability, but a walkie talkie is just a walkie talkie. Buying more two-way radios than you need doesn’t mean you’ll have a better walkie talkie experience. This is what you should look for.

Power. A typical summer camp is on at least one campus and often on hundreds of acres in the woods. Portable two-way radios come in wattages ranging from 1 to 5 watts. The more wattage the more range, but going from 1 to watts won’t double your range. Each increase in wattage typically provides 20% more range. The best thing you can do to increase your reach is to invest in affordable digital two-way radios.

UHF or VHF. I always recommend UHF because UHF does a better job penetrating buildings and trees.

FRS, Business, Commercial or Professional. No summer camp should use a professional two-way radio unless they gave it to you for free. We also do not suggest you use FRS two way radios. You’ll find 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 staff members who need waterproof two-way radios are those who jump into the lake. As long as the radio you’re looking for has a durability rating of IP54 or higher, your walkie talkies will be durable enough to handle 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 at 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 UHF two-way radios will not work with VHF two-way 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 plenty of channels and plenty of battery life in this price range.