iSportsman Staff

While it’s always frustrating to be without cell service, nothing solidifies the expansiveness of the backcountry like loss of communication. And while it’s good to unplug, it’s best to have a way to communicate with home base, hiking partners, camping buddies, or whoever you go outdoors with. We found three great walkie talkie options for under $50 so you can hit the trails, woods, and mountains prepared. 

Best for Budget: miLink Walkie-Talkie $29.99

The miLink Walkie-Talkie is an affordable choice for easy-going outdoor communications. Powered by rechargeable AAA batteries the miLINK walkie talkie offers dependable communications for up to 9 hours standby, 3.5 hours continuous, and 1-hour VOX. Best for tight-nit outdoor trips, the miLink has a maximum of 16 miles range IF in open space with NO interference. While this option comes with potentially useful bells and whistles, such as a built-in flashlight and auto power save features for extended use, the miLink is designed for dry, low-impact, and short distance use. 

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Best Mid-Range Choice: Motorola Solutions 2-Way Radio $34.99

The Motorola Solutions 2-Way Radio offers a little more freedom outdoors without stretching the budget. Doubling the battery life of the miLink, the Motorola 2-way radio offers approximately 19 hours of battery life when using alkaline cells. Ruggedized enough to withstand sand, dirt, and gravel, this outdoor communication solution provides a maximum of 16 miles of range- no strings attached. Push the limits of your walkie talkie’s lifespan with Motorola’s two-year warranty and enjoy easy pairing so you can spend less time setting up tech and more time enjoying the outdoors.  

Best for Pros: Bushnell Compact Walkie Talkie $44.99

Bushnell Compact walkie talkies come in just under the budget cut off with their compact 22 channel FRS walkie talkie. The Bushnell option has multiple pros, such as a 20-mile maximum range, heavy duty and weather resistant design, and limited lifetime warranty. However, for outdoor parties where communications may be extensive (such as trips with chatty kids, or high-volume outdoor projects) you’ll be limited by the approximately 6.5 hours of battery life Bushnell offers. For pros who are comfortable with essential comms only, these rechargeable walkie talkies include 5-level VOX, 22 channels, and belt clips.  

Don’t be alone when you can’t use your phone! Consider one of these affordable walkie talkie options before finding yourself outdoors.

 Also check out the best camping spots available on iSportsmanUSA.