Using HAM radio for overlanding is an excellent choice when it comes to the various communication options you have today. HAM radio is one of several communication methods that you might use while you’re out on the trail. It is preferred in many cases, because it can perform communications across much longer distances than other types of radios, depending on your equipment setup. However, it is more challenging to get started because you are required to take a test and receive a license to use it.
What is HAM Radio?
HAM is a class of licensed amateur radio operators and the frequencies they can use. Think of tuning your radio to an FM or AM station. These numbered stations extend well below and above what your car radio is programmed to access. HAM operators can utilize some lower and higher frequencies.
You’ll need both a license and specialized equipment to get started in the hobby. Fortunately, you can get started relatively inexpensively.
Riley poses next to the Baofeng UV-5R+ handheld HAM radio
Why would I Use HAM radio for Overlanding?
HAM is a preferred method because of its long-distance capabilities. A powerful HAM radio can transmit up to 90 miles – and if you can reach a repeater (a radio tower equipped to recieve your signal), it can retransmit your signal for much further. As an amateur HAM radio operator, you could even have the opportunity to speak to someone on the international space station!
Because HAM does not require cell phone or internet service, it can be used as a means of emergency communication – whether you’re assisting in a disaster relief effort, or on a hike and require assistance.
Other radio types, like GMRS and CB, are often used for Overlanding, too. However, as a HAM operator, you would be able to use all three types, since GMRS and CB do not require you to take a test. This will allow you to talk to more people and use HAM to reach longer distances.
Why do I need a license?
You need a license because HAM radio operates on radio frequencies under FCC jurisdiction. You need to know the laws and how to use your radio without interfering in other broadcasts. Also, if you plan to do a more advanced radio station setup, you’ll be working a lot with electricity, and the FCC wants to make sure that you don’t kill yourself by accident.
How do I get a license?
There are 3 tiers of HAM license classes – Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. For most folks starting out, the Technician class license is sufficient. Once you receive a license, you will not need to renew it for 10 years.
You will need to take a 35 question test and get at least 26 correct to get your Technician license. The 35 questions are all multiple-choice and drawn from a pool of 428 potential questions.
Step 1 – Book a test
Until March 2020, you would have been required to take a test in person, but since the COVID-19 outbreak, some radio clubs have been offering online tests. You can book a test session at hamstudy.org/sessions. Booking a test is the first step because it gives you an incentive to study. I recommend booking a test 1-2 months out to give yourself enough time.
Step 2 – Study
There are 428 possible multiple-choice questions on the test, and you’ll be able to study all of them ahead of time. While it is possible to start memorizing all the questions now, I recommend studying first, using some of the resources below. If you try to memorize now, you might negatively reinforce some wrong answers.
Study recourses:
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- Read: The Fast Track To Your Technician Class Ham Radio License.
- This book is an excellent introduction to all 428 questions and explains the concepts behind them very well. I listened to the audiobook, which has its pros and cons. While the narrator was fantastic and allowed me to listen while I did chores around the house – I missed out on some essential visual aids.
- Take practice tests on: hamstudy.org
- Hamstudy.org uses a flashcard style practice test system that cycles through all 428 questions and rates your aptitude on each section, and overall. If you can get an aptitude score of 90% or better, you’ll be sure to pass your test with flying colors.
- Read: The Fast Track To Your Technician Class Ham Radio License.
After you’ve finished the book, head over to hamstudy.org, or download the app. They use a flashcard type model to help you study for the Technician exam, and will rate how you’re doing with a competency number. If you can hit 90% competency, you’re ready for the test.
Step 3 – Pass the exam
You can do this! Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll be ready to talk on the radio. Now it’s time to order some equipment!
Recommended Equipment
Basic setup:
One of the least expensive ways to get started is a simple handheld HAM radio. Most frequently recommended, and even recommended by the fast track book, is the Baofeng UV-5R+. You can purchase accessories like an accessory mount for your car, or a longer antenna for better range, but these things are not required to get started.
This little radio was the perfect starter for me. At less than $35, I can connect to the repeater near my house and listen to conversations, practice the radio’s controls, and after I got my license, even use it on an overland trip through Arizona and Utah with no issues.
You can order the Baofend UV-5R on amazon.
Optional accessories:
You can even purchase your radio before getting your license, and learn to use the controls and also listen in on conversations. You just can’t talk on the radio until you get your license 🙂
Advanced setup (HAM radio for Overlanding Vehicles):
This article is for Overlanders, so let’s talk about how to get a slick set up in your vehicle!
The benefits of installing a radio in your vehicle are that you can get a higher-powered radio than just a handheld. You’ll also be powered off the vehicle’s battery, so you won’t have to worry about recharging on extended trips.
The setups are much more expensive than a simple handheld radio, however. They also require complex setup in order to wire the radio to your vehicle’s battery. Make sure to get some help unless you really know what you’re doing!
Here’s the setup I’m currently saving up for:
- Kenwood Original TM-V71A radio
- Kenwood DFK-3D Remote Mount Kit for TM-V71A
- Diamond MR77SMA 144/440 Mobile Mag Antenna SMA Connector
Special Thanks to Chris Kracht from 4XOverlandAdventures.com for getting me started on my journey to using HAM radio for Overlanding. Check out Chris’s full overlanding gear list here.
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