GMRS or CB which should I install for overlanding?

[Metalhead]

Doing a lot of research it seems CB radios are not used much anymore. I'm trying to decide which is better for communication in emergencies and when cell service is not available.

Thanks

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[jav_eee]

Depends on what service is most used in your area. Jeep clubs down here where I live use GMRS. Other areas might use CB. Radio comms are cool but for true emergency preparedness I’d go with a Starlink mini on the standby plan or an iPhone or T-Mobile phone. Satellite communication tech is cheap and readily available.

 

[Bandit’s Lair]

I’d say most are going to GMRS now. If you know any local HAM guys check with them to see why your local repeaters are able to handle. They’re going to be a good knowledge base for comms. For basics I’m going with a 3db gain antenna and then have a longer 6-12db gain under the rear seat if it’s needed to reach out and touch a tower. For cell I’ve been looking at the WeBoost setups for over the road type rigs.

most emergency response centers are tied in to and monitor the repeaters so radio is a good way to go. Just make sure to have a decent set of GpS Coords to transmit if they’re needed. Don’t just rely on the Jeep off-road pages to give you the info. Have something stored away that’s hand held to guide emergency services in. Being able to call for help is great but if you can’t tell them where you are you’re still screwed.

 

[bd100]

If out of range of cell service, Garmin Inreach or cell phone sat signals. They monitor 24/7 unlike whoever is within range of whatever local comms you have.

One nice thing about the Garmin stuff is the rugged build for when you are out hiking somewhere. Rain and snow resistant, hardware keys (not touch pad), etc.

Best plan is "some of each". And look up the "ten essentials" from the hiking crowd. Imagine what you would carry if you have to abandon the vehicle and walk out.

Edit: One other thing about the dedicated SOS stuff is how simple they are to activate after you've had a big fall and are about to pass out, compared to the cell phone "aim at the satellite and hold it there for a while" stuff. The Garmin blog has a story about a guy who fell into a ravine, was able to hit SOS, then passed out and woke up again when the rescuers had arrived and were talking to him. And have everyone in the party know how to use trigger it.

 

[JTdiRtyD]

Use a radio for comms within your group. What type you use is just going to depend on your group preferences. Don't rely on these for emergency use.

1) What if your truck is disabled or wont power on?
2) You have to be able to accurately relay location information.
3) What if you're incapacitated and someone else who doesn't understand the radio needs to use it for the emergency?
4) Radio comms only work if someone is close enough to receive, is listening, and gives a shit.


Use an actual emergency satellite communication device like InReach, SPOT, etc for emergencies.

1) Simple to use, just press the SOS button. Anyone can do it.
2) As long as it stays powered on they provide a location to emergency crews, even if you become unconscious.
3) Even if powered off or they lose satellite connection they provide the last known location to emergency crews.
4) They work anywhere with clear view of the sky and nothing about them changes based on location.

 

[bd100]

If stuck with satellite, ham, or cell comms, you can send a message to request an offroad recovery:
https://offroadportal.org/
Bookmark their number in your cell phone and satellite comm devices.

Volunteer-run for recovery, but not for medical emergencies.

Their website has a bunch of neat recovery stories.

 

[sarguy1941]

For everyday comms. Both GMRS and CB have a place. Find out what they use locally. For emergencies Garmin Inreach and or a starlink mini with the $5 plan. I work in remote areas alot and most times have littel to no cell. Carried and inreach for years. Someone will answer that regardless. For the $15 a month and peace of mind its well worth it. also now have starlink and use that to send tests or emails.

 

[sharpsicle]

Why not both? Then you're ready to go no matter what.

 

[J Sierra]

CB because the 103 inch whip looks cool

 

[vicsvx]

My group uses CB. But I carry starlink if there's an emergency

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