Caravanning is all about returning to nature and enjoying the great outdoors. It offers a special opportunity to disengage from everyday life for a while. However, when you are caravanning with several vehicles, a CB radio can be a beneficial communication tool.
Placing one in each vehicle will enable all travelers or caravanners to stay in contact at the touch of a button. This makes it very simple to alert the group of vehicle trouble, direct stops for gas, or route changes.
If you are considering purchasing CB radios for your caravanning trip, then you are already off to a great start.
Keep reading to discover our top picks for the best CB radios for caravanning. We also offer a detailed buying guide so you know the critical factors to look out for in a CB radio.
Top 5 CB Radios for Caravanning
| # | CB Radio for Caravanning | Specialty |
| 1 | Midland 75-822 | Best Overall |
| 2 | Midland 1001LWX | Easy to Install |
| 3 | Uniden PRO505XL | Best Range |
| 4 | Cobra 19DXIV | Compact |
| 5 | Cobra HH50WXST | Clear Sound |
The Best CB Radio for Caravanning: Midland 75-822
This Midland CB radio model brings you all the features that a camper/caravan CB radio should have. It comes within a compact package and delivers big on performance.
The Midland 75-822 is arguably the tiniest handheld CB radio around. Its compact construction makes it great for storage within your caravan/vehicle. The build quality is fantastic so the radio will last you a long time.
This product has the usual 4 watts power output plus 40 channels within the 27-28 megahertz frequency. The radio has a built-in antenna that will help you attain a decent range. However, to get the best possible range using this Midland CB radio, you will need to install a dependable external antenna.
Most previous buyers report that the Midland 18-2442 mag mount CB radio antenna works perfectly with this unit. Many of these users note that the Midland 75-822 CB radio receives/transmits clear signals within a range of 5 miles.
The Midland 18-2442 antenna features a magnetic base that makes it stick effortlessly on metal surfaces. Therefore, center the antenna on your vehicle/caravan’s roof to ensure it emits and receives the best signal.
This Midland radio gives you three power options. You can power the device using regular alkaline batteries (6 AA batteries) or with rechargeable batteries.
The radio can also be operated through a 12 volts cigarette lighter plug within your caravan or vehicle. Bear in mind that batteries are not included in the package.
A variety of power options makes the Midland 75-822 an extremely versatile compact radio. It can easily be moved from one caravan to another. And, when you power it using AA batteries, you can use it as a handheld transceiver when on foot hiking.
The device comes with low/high transmit power levels (1 watt and 4 watts respectively). This dual transmit power level lets you make the most of your battery life.
The Midland 75-822 will let you access the NOAA weather network, which comprises emergency and weather information. This means you can use the radio to listen to weather or traffic updates in your caravan. The radio also lets you access information channel 19 and emergency channel 9 instantaneously.
The package includes Midland 75-822 citizen band radio, antenna, DC adapter, AC adapter, belt clip, hand strap, rechargeable battery case (note that batteries are not included), as well as an owner’s manual.
Specifications
- Backlit LCD
- Uses 6 AA batteries and rechargeable batteries for power
- 40 channels
- Color: Black
- Vehicle DC power cable
- 4 watts maximum output power
- Weight: 0.4 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.4 x 2.6 x 6.7 inches
- Automatic Noise Limiter
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Gives access to 10 NOAA channels
- Excellent battery life
- Offers great value for the dollar
- Fantastic build quality
Cons
- Several users have complained that the inbuilt antenna delivers a minimal range
- Poor volume output
Usage Guide
As mentioned earlier, the Midland 75-822 comes with a comprehensive user manual. Read this manual carefully to learn more about the various features plus technical specificities of your radio.
Just like any other electronic gadget, the useful life of your CB radio depends largely on how properly you take care of it. To ensure your investment lasts long, follow these maintenance and care directions.
Storage Tips
- Before storing your radio, ensure it is switched off and take out the batteries
- The battery packs and radio should be stored within a cool and dry area.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
- Before performing any maintenance operation on the radio, ensure it is switched off and the batteries are taken out
- When dirt and dust accumulate on the radio, remove the dirt using a clean, supple, damp fabric
- Avoid using cleaning solutions or alcohol when cleaning the radio
- When cleaning your radio, never submerge it in water
- Whenever the radio gets wet, dry it immediately using a lint-free cloth such as a microfiber cloth.
Tips for Charging the Radio
- The rechargeable batteries should never be overcharged to avoid ruining them and even fire outbreaks
- Use only recommended batteries, adapters made especially for the Midland 75-822
- Avoid charging the rechargeable battery pack when wet as this may lead to damage
- Even though the Midland 75-822 is highly durable, never subject it to excessive physical abuse or shock.
User Review and Feedback on Midland 75-822
One feature that users of the Midland 75-822 have greatly appreciated is the availability of three power options. Most users appreciate that they can power the device using AA alkaline batteries, rechargeable batteries, or a cigarette lighter plug connected to a vehicle’s battery.
Nearly all previous purchasers report that they attained a good range from the radio while using a reliable external antenna. Several customers have also praised how compact the radio is. These users note that the device’s compact construction makes it a great choice for caravanning or camping.
Most users also appreciate that the 75-822 gives immediate access to 10 NOAA weather channels including emergency channel 9 and traffic channel 19.
Users also welcome the radio’s solid construction noting that it provides excellent value for the dollar. Nearly all previous buyers report that the user manual included in the package is simple to follow.
The primary user complaint regarding the Midland 75-822 is about the rubber duck antenna that comes with the radio.
Several users report that this antenna does not allow for a good range inside a vehicle or caravan. Nonetheless, most of these users note that this problem can easily be overcome by using a dependable external antenna.
Some users also note that the radio’s volume output is not so good. These users report that they overcame this problem by using an external speaker.
What Makes Midland 75-822 the Best CB Radio for Caravanning?
The range is a critical consideration when selecting a CB radio for caravanning. With its 4 watts max output power and a dependable external antenna, you can transmit/receive clear signals up to 5 miles range with this radio.
It offers you 3 power options so your radio will never run out of power during your caravanning trip.
Furthermore, the radio lets you access NOAA weather information, which can come in handy at your caravanning location. These features make the Midland 75-822 the best CB radio for caravanning.
4 More Top Rated CB radios for Caravanning
1. Midland 1001LWX
Easy to Install
Traveling tourists such as caravaners who spend several hours on the road understand the importance of two-way radios.
The 1001LWX CB radio from Midland is one such transceiver that is designed for caravaners, off-roaders, and so forth. This inexpensive CB radio comes with all the vital features you require to communicate while caravanning.
The digital tuner offers 40 channels. This makes it easy for you to find the appropriate channels to get emergency information or learn about traffic problems.
When the radio is powered on, it defaults to channel 19. In the US, this channel is extremely popular among road warriors including caravanners and truckers.
The maximum power output of this Midland radio is 4 watts. This power output level is more than sufficient to effectively receive as well as send transmissions.
Most users report that the radio achieves this feat without running down the battery too quickly. This is perfect for long-haul caravanners who are constantly on the road and don’t want to be anxious about the battery dying.
The LCD is unquestionably a critical aspect of a CB radio. If the display is not large enough or not backlit, you will find it difficult to view the functions and menu in dim light situations. The Midland 1001LWX is fitted with a sizable backlit display that is simple to read night or day.
If you regularly engage in outdoor activities such as caravanning, you know how important it is to have regular weather updates. The 1001LWX is designed to scan for NOAA weather alerts. This feature helps ensure you are up to date regarding current weather conditions.
Midland fitted an easy-to-see digital power meter on the 1001LWX. This meter enables you to see the strength of an incoming signal.
If you notice that the signal is weak, you can then decide to perform additional tuning for enhanced audio quality. You can tune the squelch threshold, noise limiter, or RF gain to improve the audio quality.
Another endearing attribute of the Midland 1001LWX is its automatic noise limiter. This limiter helps curb electric interference plus background noise without any input from you. With this, your transmissions are a lot clearer.
The 1001LWX comes with a detachable microphone that feels strong and nice. This mic delivers crisp, clear, voice transmissions. Since the microphone is detachable, you can swap it for something better if you are not pleased with its performance.
Included in the box are the following: One CB radio, removable microphone, owner’s manual, mounting bracket plus hardware.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Fantastic audio quality
- Easy channel scanning
- Compact design
Cons
- Durability concerns
2. Uniden PRO505XL
Best Range
The Uniden PRO505XL is a superb choice for caravanners looking to meet their communication needs with a CB radio. The biggest thing that this radio has going for it is its ease of use.
By merely looking at the product, you can tell that it has an uncomplicated design that is simple to navigate. Therefore, if you are new to CB radios, you will have no hassles learning how to use the Uniden PRO505XL.
You will find only one switch, three buttons, and two knobs on the faceplate. The three buttons comprise the up/down arrows for selecting channels plus the emergency channel 9 button.
The two knobs include the volume knob and squelch control knob. The only switch on the faceplate is for toggling between PA and CB modes.
Concerning size, the Uniden PRO505XL has a compact construction. Nevertheless, its compact build does not lessen the performance that the radio can deliver.
On the contrary, its compact design makes it very simple to install the radio on all vehicle sizes. Since the package includes the mounting hardware plus a mounting bracket, everything you require for a hassle-free installation is at your disposal.
The Uniden PRO505XL is considered a budget citizen band radio but it does not disappoint on the range.
Range depends on many factors however several users say they have attained a 3-5 miles range in areas with a relatively high number of obstacles. That is a fantastic performance considering that CB radios are designed for communicating short distances.
Audio quality is an important consideration when shopping for the best CB radio for caravanning. The Uniden PRO505XL features inbuilt speakers that help ensure great audio quality whether you are receiving or transmitting.
Nevertheless, many previous purchasers report that using an external speaker will give you a much better sound quality.
The box includes the following: CB radio, mounting hardware, microphone and hook, knobs, user’s manual, and mounting bracket. You will have to purchase an antenna separately as it is not included in the package.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Compact build
- Durable
- Impressive range
- Affordable
Cons
- Does not receive NOAA weather channels
- Some users say some of the units have display issues
3. Cobra 19DXIV
Compact
The Cobra 19DXIV offers all the features you need to look out for in a reliable CB radio for caravanning. The product comes with the mounting bracket, microphone, fused power cord, screws, plus microphone hanger. The supplied brackets make mounting and setting up the radio a breeze.
The radio offers basic functionality, which is made simpler with the included easy-to-use knobs. One of these knobs is the channel 19/9 push button that allows direct access to emergencies and information. Most previous purchasers report that this feature works great for them.
Another handy knob fitted on the Cobra 19DXIV is the PA/CB button. This feature allows you to quickly convert the CB radio to a public address system using external speakers. Other important knobs on the radio include the squelch/RF gain button, on/off volume button, plus the channel selector button.
The Cobra 19DXIV has an LCD screen as opposed to the usual LEDs that some CB radios come with. This display is extremely clear and simple to read night or day.
As previously mentioned, the 19DXIV has an RF gain knob that lets you adjust receiver sensitivity to correspond with the incoming signal. The squelch control lets you remove background noise during your journeys.
If you are seeking an inexpensive radio that you can install on your vehicle for caravanning or any other purpose, this cobra model comes highly recommended.
It has the precise same transmit power as units that cost 2x as much. While it does not have back-lit knobs, blue tooth connectivity, NOAA weather channels, etc, the product is inexpensive, compact, and delivers on performance.
Pros
- Simple to mount and use
- Versatile to use a PA system or CB radio
- Well placed knobs
- Clear LCD screen
Cons
- No scan feature
- Has a dense plastic case that impacts durability
4. Cobra HH50WXST
Clear Sound
Cobra is not a newcomer in the citizen band radio industry. The company is renowned for making first-rate CB radio transceivers and the HH50WXST is not an exception. With a dimension of 6.3 x 2 x 1.7 inches, the device is sufficiently compact to take anywhere with you.
You can also mount it in small spaces in either your caravan or vehicle. The radio can be powered via batteries or 12 volts DC power source. If using batteries is your preference, you will require 9 AA batteries.
Like most CB radios, the Cobra HH50WXST has a max output power of 4 watts. With its rubber ducky antenna, you can attain a range of approximately 4 miles.
However, this depends on the weather conditions and terrain. If you operate the radio from inside your caravan, you may get only a 1-mile range or less. If you wish to get a better range when using this radio in your caravan or vehicle you will need to install an external antenna.
The Cobra HH50WXST will let you access 40 channels including NOAA weather frequencies. It also features a sound tracker, dual watch, and channel scan. The sound tracker helps diminish background noise by as much as 80 percent.
You will love the unit’s illuminated LCD screen. Most users report that it is very easy to read the information on this LCD whether in light or pitch darkness.
Pros
- Offer NOAA weather channels
- Compact construction
- Dual watch
- Channel scan
- An impressive noise reduction system
Cons
- The rubber ducky antenna is not powerful enough for a good range
- No channel memory
How to Select the Best CB Radio for Caravanning?
Below are the most critical factors you should consider when shopping for a CB radio for caravanning use:
1. Battery life
If you plan to travel long distances with your caravan, you may have a hard time finding power outlets where you can charge your radio. For this reason, select CB radio models that have exceptionally long battery life. You can also choose models that offer multiple power and charging sources.
The Midland 75-822 is the winner concerning battery life/power sources. The radio offers 3 power options – regular alkaline batteries, 12 volts cigarette lighter within the vehicle, or rechargeable batteries.
2. Range
This is perhaps the most critical factor when selecting CB radios for caravanning. If you are driving in a convoy of caravans, it is easy for vehicles to separate by one or more miles.
The separation may be due to traffic or other reasons. If your CB radios have poor range, your group may experience a breakdown in communication. This is why you should always select long-range CB radios when going on a caravanning holiday.
The CB radios recommended here all offer a good range. However, the Midland 75-822 and the Uniden PRO505XL are the winners concerning range. With a reliable external antenna, you can broadcast/receive crisp clear signals of about 5 miles range using these radios.
3. NOAA Weather Information
CB radios that feature NOAA weather bands allow you to get real-time weather updates and reports.
These reports and updates can be extremely beneficial during your caravanning journeys. You can access NOAA weather channels using the Midland 75-822, Cobra HH50WXST, and the Midland 1001LWX.
Comparison of Top 5 CB Radios for Caravaning
| CB Radio | Weight | Dimensions | Power options | Weather Alert | Color |
| Midland 75-822 | 0.4 pounds | 9.4 x 2.6 x 6.7 inches | Alkaline batteries, rechargeable batteries, cigarette lighter plug | NOAA weather radio | Black |
| Midland 1001LWX | 9.92 pounds | 9.8 x 9.2 x 2.5 inches | 12 volts power source via your vehicle battery or 12 volts power adapter | NOAA weather radio | Black |
| Uniden PRO505XL | 2 pounds | 7.5 x 4.88 x 1.75 inches | 12 volts battery source via your vehicle | Black | |
| Cobra 19DXIV | 1.4 pounds | 1.75 x 4.5 x 7 inches | 12 volts power source | Black | |
| Cobra HH50WXST | 0.64 pounds | 6.3 x 2 x 1.7 inches | Batteries or 12 Volts DC power source | NOAA weather radio | Black |
Final Words:
Despite the wide variety of CB Radios available on the market, selecting one for your caravanning trip is fairly simple provided you know the features to out for. Hopefully, this post has helped you better recognize the critical factors to look for when buying CB radio for caravanning.
