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Ham radios are usually broken up into "handie-talkies" (HTs) that are simple to bring by hand and foot in the field, "mobile" radios that are implied for lorries, and bigger "base stations" indicated to sit on a desktop. Despite the fact that all of the types are fairly small and could in theory be gotten and taken with you, HTs are the right choice for many people's main bug out bag/ emergency situation set checklist since you desire to have the ability to travel with the least quantity of equipment.
Check out the newbie's guide if you're new to ham radio or curious why it's the finest option for prepping. Other ham guides: HTs work on the VHF and UHF bands, which can make contacts at brief and medium distances about 1 to 40 miles, depending on your elevation and surrounding terrain.
If a repeater links to the internet over something like Echo, Link, you can talk to people all over the world. HTs can even reach satellites like the International Spaceport Station, but that's generally not beneficial for emergencies. The High Frequency bands (HF) can reach even more than standard VHF/UHF. There technically aren't any handie-talkie HF designs, but there are some HF designs small enough that some people take them out in the field often just for funsies, less so practical usages.
: Quick suggestion that you do not require a license to listen, but you do need one to transfer. It's great if you transmit without a license in a bonafide emergency situation. However best handheld ham radio for survival takes practice, so you must get certified (it's simple!) and find out how to use this equipment prior to an emergency.
All the elements combined may be the size of two decks of cards and weigh less than a pound. HTs may not make sense for you if you live in an isolated location with no other hams/ repeaters nearby, since the HT range is limited. If in doubt, purchase an inexpensive one and test what remains in your location prior to investing or deciding further.