Are you in search of a high-quality portable radio for camping? You will see a huge number of options on the internet with mixed reviews, which makes choosing the right one very hard.
But you don't have to work hard, as we are here with our top picks selected after thorough research.
You must be thinking, nowadays we all use advanced gadgets such as mobile phones then what the point of carrying a portable radio on the go is?
A portable radio offers some amazing features which high-end devices lack. For instance, it does not require Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Well, there is a lot more that you need to know about portable radios for camping.
If you are in a hurry, I would recommend the Puiuisoul Portable Solar Radio, as it is multipurpose, sturdy, and budget-friendly as well.
So, continue reading as we will include reviews of some of the best options available online. We will also include a guide of necessary that will help you choose the right one easily. Jump To Best Options!
Why is portable radio a must-have while camping?
A mobile phone or some similar device won't be a good partner if you are camping in a far-off place in the country area. This is because it requires to be charged very often. The battery won't last long.
Furthermore, it will also require Wi-Fi or network signals, which are normally not available at such places. The power of a portable radio lasts way longer as compared to a smartphone.
It doesn't require Wi-Fi or a network. The radios that are made for camping have features that help the owner in survival situations.
These radios are made lightweight, and easy to carry, and some of them are waterproof as well. Because of these incredible features, it is always preferred to carry a portable radio while camping.
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Quick answer:
Best Portable Radio For Camping
Check out this quick list of our top 3 favorite RADIOs FOR CAMPING if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews
1-Puiuisoul Portable Solar Radio
2-FosPower Emergency Weather Radio
3-Dolphin LX-20 Dual Portable
Best Portable Radio For Camping
1-FosPower Emergency Weather Radio
First, in the list of best portable radios for camping, we have the FosPower NOAA emergency weather radio.
It can use three different types of power sources that are solar power, a battery, and hand cranking.
It supports a USB connection. You can also charge your smartphone using that port which means it can also be used as a power bank. It weighs about 310 grams only.
The frequency of the FosPower emergency weather radio is 108 MHz. It has a voltage of 3.7 volts. It also comes with a built-in torch that is crucial to include in your camping gear.
Having this portable and lightweight emergency radio, you don't have to carry a separate torch. The power bank of this radio gives you a high power of 2000 MAH.
This radio also provides weather broadcast access so you can get timely news about weather mishaps. Furthermore, this radio also has a motion-sensing setting and SOS alarm.
It also supports both AM and FM radio signals.
One of the best features of this radio is that the manufacturer provides a lifetime warranty on the device.
Hence, it is a one-time investment and can be of great value for your money.
Highlight features
Integrated Power bank: If you are looking forward to taking your phone with you camping, you will also need a power source. For that, you will surely consider a power bank with you. Having this radio, you will have a multipurpose device without those extra pounds. You can charge your smartphone whenever you need it.
3-way power: An ordinary radio needs to be charged again and again, and if you are in the backcountry, you do not have any access to electricity. FosPower has you back. You can just place it in the sun, use a battery or just hand crank it yourself. So it is not an issue if you don't have access to power.
Flashlight option: Flashlight is another must-have with your gear. Having this radio, you do not need an extra flashlight in your backpack. This radio has two lights, i.e., a 4 LED reading light and a 1-watt flashlight.
Emergency access: As it is an emergency radio, it gives you access to NOAA weather broadcasts. The FM/AM option on the radio gives you access to all AM and FM radio broadcasts.
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Reason to get this: Best for value!
2-Puiuisoul Portable Solar Radio
The second portable radio we will talk about is the Puiuisoul portable solar radio.
It is also one of those multifunctional devices. It works on a 4000mAh battery. You can also run it on solar energy and by hand cranking.
You can also choose from the 6000 mAh and 8000 mAh battery options. You also get a USB port on the radio.
You can connect your phone using a USB cord and use it as a power bank to charge your phone.
Puisuisoul portable radio comes in two aesthetic colors that are green and orange.
It weighs about 0.77 pounds and has a frequency of 87 MHz. The dimension of this radio is 6.3 x 2 x 3.2 inches. The voltage of the Puiuisoul portable radio is 4.2 volts.
This radio is ideal for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities as it is an all-in-one device. It is waterproof, and you get a flashlight in it as well.
You can also use it as your mobile phone charger. It gives you both AM and FM options. You get a large battery capacity that can last for a long time.
Highlight features
High-Quality Sound: Sound quality needs to be considered when buying a radio. This radio provides very high quality and clear sound. The volume of the radio can be easily adjusted.
Alarm system: As it is an emergency radio, you get an SOS button on it. You can use this button when you are in an emergency. This will help you get rescuers easily if you are caught in any kind of emergency. This incredible feature makes it a perfect choice for hiking and camping.
Hand cranking and solar power: If you are stuck in a place where you cannot get batteries, you can use solar energy. You can place it in the sun for a few hours to charge it.
Don't worry if you don't have the sun. Just use the hand-cranking handle and turn it in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction for a few minutes. It will charge the radio, and it will work for some time.
Warranty: The manufacturer of this device offers 24-hour service and 18 monthly warranty if you are unsatisfied with the product or it fails to function properly. This ensures a better experience with the device.
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Reason to get this: Best Overall!
3-Dolphin LX-20 Dual Portable Radio Speakers
Next on number 3, we have the Dolphin LX-20 Dual portable radio speakers.
These are ideal for you if you want loud volumes and want to use the radio as a speaker.
With a radio, you get a long-lasting 3000mAh battery that can be recharged. It comes with an HD sound and bass system.
It has a high power of 30 watts. You get a USB port, SD option, and an Aux input option.
You can easily connect this device to your smartphone either by a cord or just by using Bluetooth.
It comes with two speakers that are embedded in it, each with the power of 15 watts, so you get high-quality loud, and clear sound.
This radio weighs about 4 pounds and has dimensions of 14" (L) x 6.9" (W) x 5.5" (H). This radio is very durable as it is waterproof. It is safe and sturdy to be used in outdoor activities such as hiking or camping.
The battery of the radio allows you to have a playtime of around 10hours which is enough for a short trip.
There is a light indicator on the radio so you can know when the battery is low and needs to be charged.
Highlight features
Waterproof: The Dolphin LX-20 dual portable radio speakers are made waterproof, so they cannot get damaged easily in harsh weather or in case of an accident. At the back of the speaker, you get an IPX 5 seal that is waterproof.
Loud and clear sound: Due to the high-power speakers, the sound is very loud. You can also use this radio as a speaker at your parties and gatherings. The sound quality is also very high-end, which makes the experience even better.
Easy connectivity: One of the best features of this device is that it can easily be connected to an iPhone, USB / SD, and an mp3. It provides a wireless connection due to the Bluetooth option, making your connectivity task even easier.
Easy to use: This radio comes with wave sync technology. You have some buttons at the top part of the radio. You can use them to change the volume and FM radio station effortlessly. It does not require any technical understanding.
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Reason to get this: Easy to use & high Quality radio!
4-Eton American Red Cross FRX3+ Radio
The next best radio for camping is the Eton American Red Cross FR3+ radio.
This is a very unique-looking radio. It comes with multiple features. It can be powered by a battery and solar energy. It weighs only about 0.93 pounds, which makes it perfect for backpacking.
The dimensions of this multifunctional red-colored radio are 6.9 x 5.8 x 2.6 inches, and the voltage is 5 volts.
In case of any disaster or weather emergency, it alerts you right away. It can also be charged by hand-cranking if you do not have any other power source.
"The battery of this radio is also rechargeable."
Furthermore, you can also use it as a power bank and charge your smartphone by connecting it via a USB cord to the USB port of the radio.
Eton American Red Cross FRX3+ radio comes with AM/ Fm and NOAA radio options. It also has an alarm clock option in it.
You also get an LED flashlight and a red flashing beacon. The battery and other settings are displayed on the digital screen of the radio for your ease.
It has a slim design and a handle at the top for easy carrying.
Highlight features
Weather Alert: Your emergency kit is incomplete if you don't have a device that keeps you aware of the expected weather on a camping trip. Eton American Red Cross FRX3+ notifies you every time there is a weather emergency.
Smartphone Charging: It is hard to use your smartphone for a longer time on a camping trip because the battery would not last long enough. You might be thinking of carrying a power bank to charge your phone but having this device, and you don't have to carry it. You can charge your phone using this radio.
Integrated Flashlight: An extra flashlight will also not be required if you have this radio. This means no extra weight due to essentials. You can get the same working using this device as it is multifunctional. Having this, you will surely cut off extra pounds from your backpack.
3-way charging: The 2600mAh battery of this camping radio can be recharged. You can also use solar power to charge your radio. And if that is also not available, you can use the hand-cranking method to charge it.
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Reason to get this: Best of the rest!
5-Sangean Digital Rechargeable Radio
On number 5 in the list, we have the sturdy-looking Sangean TB-100 Toughbox digital rechargeable radio.
It is green in color and is IPX4 waterproof.
You get AM /FM options on the radio. You get the AUX connectivity option on the radio. This radio weighs about 4.9 pounds. The voltage required by this radio is 120 volts which means it is corded and electric.
The dimensions of the Sangean TB-100 Toughbox digital rechargeable radio are 9.15 x 12.76 x 7.62 inches.
You get an LCD display on the radio. This radio is very sturdy as it is rain resistant, dust resistant, and shock-resistant.
You get a digital PLL AM/FM tuner on the radio, making selecting a radio station much easier. You also get an LED charging indicator on the radio to know if it needs to be charged.
You can connect this device to your mobile phone using the radio's frequency. You get 10 stations preset on the radio, 5 are AM, and 5 are FM.
It has a very durable body with a handle on top for easy carrying. It is rechargeable and suited for both outdoor and indoor use.
Highlight features
Station preset options: If you find tuning and selecting radio channels very tough, the radio is made for you. It comes with a 10 preset station option that you can access by pressing a single button. 5 of them are AM, and 5 are FM.
Charging indicator: It can be an issue for you if you are not notified that the battery of the radio was not enough and it died. This radio has LED indicators that are turned on when the battery of the radio is low.
Powerful output: The output wattage of this radio is 5.0 watts which makes it very powerful. The sound produced is very loud and of high quality. The sound is enough even in noisy environments.
Sturdy material: One of the features that differentiate this device from its competitors is its material. The body of this radio is made from durable ABS plastic. It has a roll case design to withstand shocks without getting damaged.
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6-PPLEE Powered Weather Radio
Moving on to the next one, on number 6, we have the PPLEE CR1009 5-way powered weather radio.
It comes in 4 beautiful colors that are blue, red, orange, and green. This is a 5-way portable radio which means you can use any of the 5 ways to recharge it.
You can charge it by solar energy, hand cranking, 5000 mAh battery, a 3AAA* battery, and using the micro USB port. This radio supports AM, FM, SW, NOAA weather stations.
The PPLEE CR1009 5-way powered weather radio has a frequency of 108 Hz. It weighs only about one pound. This radio is also multifunctional.
You get a bright camping flashlight and a reading lamp on the radio. You also get the SOS alarm function on the radio.
The radio also has an integrated compass that is very accurate and hence a must-have when you are camping or hiking and don't know the directions.
Furthermore, the dimensions of this radio are 6.69 x 3.74 x 2.36 inches. It supports iPhone and android connectivity as well. You get a 3.5mm headphone jack hardware interface on the radio for connecting earphones.
The manufacturer of this radio provides 24 hrs message service and a 365 days warranty with the radio so you can get it replaced or repaired easily.
Highlight features
5-way power: The PPLEE CR1009 weather radio, which means it is one of those devices that can be powered in 5 ways. This makes it ideal for use in distant places with no electricity supply.
Timely weather alerts: This radio can provide timely weather alerts for harsh weather conditions such as storms, rain, heavy snow, earthquake, and flooding. The pre-adjusted NOAA weather stations make the task of getting weather alerts much easier.
Emergency flashlight and reading lamp: For hiking, camping, trekking, backpacking, and climbing, a flashlight is considered one of the most crucial gear. Having this radio, you get a powerful flashlight on it. You also get a reading lamp on the radio.
Loud SOS Siren: In case you are caught in an emergency, you can use the SOS siren function of this radio. It produces a very loud and noticeable siren, so you can easily get noticed by rescuers and get immediate help without any struggle at all.
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7-Panasonic Portable AM / FM Radio
On number 7 in the list of best-camping radios, we have the Panasonic portable AM/ FM radio.
This is one of the most simple radios and has a vintage design. This radio supports two power options. It can be powered using electricity via a cord and work on a battery.
You also get a 3.5 mm headphone jack on the radio. It supports both AM and FM. The weight of this radio is 1.12 pounds only.
The Panasonic portable AM/ FM radio has a frequency of 108 Hz. You also get an LED display screen on this radio. The dimensions of this radio are 5.8 x 4.6 x 9.8 inches.
You get a big 10cm speaker on the radio and a precise station tuner on one side of the radio so you can tune it manually. This radio produces loud and good quality sound.
This radio is one of the most cost-effective radios available. The signal reception of this radio is perfect and easy. You can easily broadcast the channel just by using the knob.
If you are looking for something easy to use, this one is will be the perfect choice at minimum cost.
Highlight features
Easy tuning: The Panasonic portable radio is one of the easiest to use radios available. If you are someone who likes to tune the radio manually, this can be your perfect choice as it supports easy signal reception. The radio dial panel is big for easy adjustment and tuning.
AM/FM stations: You get two types of radio station options that are AM and FM. If you are getting signals from one type of station, you can switch it to the other one and get better quality. Hence the essential features of the radio are fulfilled.
2-way power: This radio can e powered directly using both battery and electricity. While using outdoors, you can use a battery, and when you are indoors, you can use a cord. Note that the package does not include the battery, and you have to buy it separately.
Lightweight: This simple old-fashioned radio is perfect for backpacking. It weighs only about 1.12 pounds which makes it perfect for you if you are on a long trip and carry your bag for long distances.
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Reason to get this: cost-Effective!
8-RunningSnail Emergency Hand Crank Radio
Next on number 8, we have the Running snail emergency hand-crank radio.
It comes in 3 colors, that are red, yellow and blue. It is a multifunctional radio with many features to cut off the extra weight from your backpack if you want to use it for camping or outdoor activities.
You get a USB connectivity option on the radio. It requires a voltage of 5V. This radio can be powered by a battery, solar energy, hand cranking, and electricity.
The dimensions of the radio are 5 x 1.8 x 2.4 inches. It is very lightweight, and it weighs only about 0.49 pounds only. The frequency of the radio is 87 Hz.
The battery of the radio is 2000mAh and is rechargeable. You can use this battery to charge other devices in an emergency.
The Running snail emergency hand-crank radio also provides a timely alert, if any natural disaster or weather emergency is expected. It also has a powerful flashlight.
The manufacturer provides 24/7 service support.
This radio is backed up with an 18-month emergency as well, which makes it a good choice for long-term use.
Highlight features
Emergency weather alerts: If you are camping alone or with your family, you need to keep a check on the weather forecast. But sometimes, natural disasters are very unexpected. In such a situation, this radio has got your back. It provides you with timely alerts about if a weather emergency is expected.
3-way power: This radio comes with three power options. You can use the built-in rechargeable battery as a power source. You can also use the solar option for charging your radio. Furthermore, you can also do it by hand-cranking for a few minutes.
2000 mAh power bank: The Running snail emergency hand-crank has an integrated 2000mAh battery that you can use to charge other devices, such as a smartphone. This works exactly like a power bank.
Warranty and customer support: If you are still thinking if this radio is sturdy or not, get it because it is backed up by an 18-month warranty. They also give you a 30-day money-back promise and lifetime customer service support.
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9-GivesEmergency Weather Crank Radio
Next on number 9, we have the Givoust OD-097 emergency weather crank radio. It is a very powerful 4-way powered radio.
You also get an LCD screen to adjust the settings and power stations easily. It is a multifunctional device with a powerful flashlight.
The power of the built-in battery is 4000 mAh.
You get a USB port on the radio that you can use to charge your mobile phone and other small devices that can be connected to the USB port.
The Givoust OD-097 emergency weather crank radio comes in orange color. It can be powered by electricity directly using the cord.
It can also be powered by solar energy and hand cranking when other power is unavailable. It also has an integrated AAA battery that can be used as a power source.
Furthermore, this radio also supports AUX connectivity. The dimensions of the radio are 7.87 x 3.54 x 3.14 inches. It weighs about 1.19 pounds only.
It can play all three FM, AM, and NOAA radio stations. It is ready for an emergency and alerts you right away. You get an SOS warning option and a warranty as well.
Highlight features
LCD Screen: The LCD screen can be very helpful for setting up radio stations. It is not very common in emergency radios, but this one has the option. It also gives you a clear picture of the remaining battery and the volume of the radio. You will also get "ALERT" displayed on the screen if there is an emergency in your area.
Emergency alert and SOS option: The radio provides you with a prompt alert if a weather emergency is expected, so you can either get help or move from that area. You also get an SOS alarm option which is very helpful and efficient to catch the attention of rescuers.
Multipurpose use: If you want to buy a radio for camping and backpacking, this one would be perfect because it offers multipurpose use. This single radio is equivalent to a power bank, a flashlight, an AM/ FM/ NOAA radio, speakers, and a siren combined. This one pound can save you from carrying heavyweight equipment.
Warranty: The manufacturer of the radio gives you a 12-month warranty, in case replacement or repair is required. You also get lifetime customer service support, and there is no risk in this purchase.
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Reason to get this: Lightweight & Efficient radio!
10-Greadio Emergency Weather Radio
Lastly, we have the Greadio Emergency weather radio. You can choose from two colors that are green and white.
It is a portable radio with a powerful 2000 mAH battery that can be used as a power bank to charge smartphones if there is an emergency and there is no electricity supply available.
This radio can also be powered by solar energy and hand cranking. You can also use the 3 AAA batteries to power the radio. You have to get the battery separately as it is not supplied with the radio.
Once it is fully charged, it gives you a radio time between 10-12 hours. You also get a built-in 1-watt powerful flashlight with a radio that can be used at night while camping.
The dimensions of the Greadio GR-002 Emergency weather radio are 6.2 x 2.1 x 2.9 inches. It weighs only about 0.68 pounds which makes it backpack friendly.
You also get an SOS alarm and flashing red light that you can use to call rescuers if you are stuck in an emergency.
Highlight features
Power bank feature: This radio comes with a powerful 2000 mAh battery. It can also be used as a power bank. You can connect your smartphone to the USB port of the radio using a cord and charge. You don't have to face the problem of running out of power anymore.
Compact: This device is very compact and lightweight. This makes it very easy to carry. You can include it with your backpacking gear for camping and carry it with you as it is a crucial part of a traveling emergency kit.
Flashlight and reading lamp: You also get a 1-watt flashlight on the radio. When the radio is fully charged, you can use the flashlight for as long as 15 hours. You also get the reading lamp on the radio.
SOS alarm: SOS alarm system is very crucial if you are camping alone. If you are stuck in a place where you can't get help, you can turn on the siren and the flashing red light to catch the attention of rescuers for help.
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Other Consideration
If you are still confused and can't make a decision, here are some important features that you need to consider. These important features will help you narrow down your choices and make the right decision.
Battery Life
One of the reasons people prefer carrying portable radios on their camping trips is that the battery life of portable radios is incredible. It can last up to several weeks.
So, while choosing a radio you must check how long the battery of the device is. Get the one that has a battery that lasts longer, so you don't have to worry about charging it or getting a battery.
Sound Quality
If you are investing in a radio that you have to use for hours, you should consider the sound quality and check if it is good or not. Also, check the volume levels of the radio. If the volume is too high or very low, it can be very annoying for you.
Weight
For normal use, the weight of the radio is not considered. But if you want to take it with you for camping trips, you must consider the weight. They should not be heavy and add extra pounds to your bag as you have to carry them along with long distances.
Durability
It is always a good thing to invest once in a durable option, then have it repaired or replaced again and again. Check the body of the radio to see if it will last long or not. Get the durable one.
Go for a waterproof portable radio, so you don't have to be careful in a humid environment or rain.
FAQs
1. How can you maintain your portable radio?
Your portable radio will require care and maintenance from time to time as it is being used in a harsh environment. Don't worry- it is easy. Just take a damp piece of cloth and wipe the radio once or twice every week.
2. How long a solar-powered radio needs to be in the sun?
Solar-powered radios are a good option as they don't need an electric power supply. You just have to place them in direct sunlight for 3-5 hours to charge them fully, and they'll work fine for days.
3. What is the difference between an AM radio and an FM radio?
The main difference between an AM and an FM radio is modulating the wave. Due to that, the quality of sound and the range is also affected.
4. What type of radio is better, AM or FM?
The sound quality of an AM radio is worse than the FM radio, but it is much cheaper and has a high range than that of an FM radio.
FM radio signals are impacted by physical barriers, while AM signals are affected by interference. If you want quality sound, FM would be a better option. Alternatively, if you want a high range, choose AM.
5. How far can FM radio waves travel?
The reception distances of an FM radio vary between 50 to 60 kilometers which are equal to 30 to 40 miles.
conclusion
So, this was all about the best portable radios for camping. We hope that you found the article helpful and it resolved your queries related to portable radios.
You can choose a radio from the above-mentioned list. You can also explore more portable radios online and get the one that meets your requirements using the guide.
If you still can't make a choice, we would recommend the Puiuisoul Portable Radio as it is ideal in terms of money, durability, and quality.
So, get your hands on a camping radio, ease your communication and enjoy the ultimate experience with safety.
For more guides & reviews read my other posts:
About the Author
Hussain is a passionate hiker and traveler that love the outdoor and enjoys what nature has to give, whenever he can he love to write and give tips & honest reviews to help others get out there and just seek more unforgettable experiences.
