I purchased a GMRS radio license today -any enthusiasts here?

I purchased a GMRS license today and am wanting to get a mobile unit for my truck and a couple handhelds. I plan to use them mostly for traveling, camping, hiking, hunting and SHTF coms. I am in the very early learning stages and might move up to the tech level if I get into it.

I will probably take a couple courses and watch a lot of videos. My main question right now is about using the GMRS pre-programmed repeater channels. I take it that you need to know the repeaters in your AO and their info and that the radios won't auto find them or hop to use them.

I am looking at the Boefang brand and a better antenna as both seem pretty reasonable.

 

I realize this is an old thread, but thought I’d revive it to say I just got my GMRS license and Tech Ham license last month. For GMRS, I have two hand-held Baofengs at the moment. Am looking to get a mobile GMRS setup for the Tundra. I understand Yaesu is a good brand for mobile ham but don’t kniw if they also offer anything for GMRS.

As for repeaters, I joined a local ham club that owns and operates repeaters in the area and one of their members helped me program it in my

$19 Baofeng UV5R BAOFENG UV-5R Dual Band Two Way Radio (Black), 144-148MHz & 420-450MHz

Baofeng UV5R Plus (for Ham only). I just need to do the same now for my GMRS hand-held. I’d recommend joining your local ham club and see if they can help set you up like they did with me.