Trail Kits- Build Your Two-Way Radio System

When you’re out exploring the backcountry, remote trails, or off-grid roads, staying connected with your group is about way more than just convenience. It’s about safety, connection, and peace of mind. Whether you’re leading the convoy, scouting ahead, or need a quick way to share route info, a reliable communication system is your best trail companion.

That’s why Midland, a trusted leader in communication technology for decades, offers everything you need to build a robust trail kit designed specifically for overlanders like you.

From powerful and easy-to-use MicroMobile radios to durable, high-performance antennas, and crystal-clear external speakers, Midland’s lineup ensures you stay connected wherever the trail takes you.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to build the perfect Midland two-way radio system step-by-step — so you can focus on the adventure, not the signal.

Find your trail kit.

Step 1: Pick the Right Midland MicroMobile® GMRS Radio for Your Rig

The radio itself is the heart of your communication system. Midland’s MicroMobile® GMRS two-way radio series is built to deliver powerful, clear, and dependable communication right from your vehicle’s dashboard or console. Designed with overlanders in mind, these radios combine long-range capability with features to make your ride safer and your comms crystal clear.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the top MicroMobile radios to fit any rig or budget:

MXT115 — Powerful and Simple for Beginners

If you’re just getting started or want a no-fuss setup, the MXT115 is a fantastic choice. With 15 Watts of power — that’s triple what you get from a standard handheld radio — you’ll enjoy expanded communication range and reliable connection to your group. It installs easily in minutes using the included DC vehicle adapter, so you can get on the trail fast. Plus, instant access to National Weather Service alerts keeps you informed of changing conditions, a key safety feature when you’re off the beaten path exploring the great outdoors.

Users love how easy the MXT115 is to install and operate. Becca S shares:

“Midland’s are one million times easier to use and fit nicely on the center console of my 2015 JKU.”

For tough rural use, Hartung Family Farms adds:

“We have over 20 pieces of equipment on our farm, and the fact that we are able to switch the radios over in about 2 minutes is extremely valuable.”

For reliable trail communications, bangolia says:

“This product is perfect for my needs as trail comms. I know I will be able to get in touch with my fellow wheelers, no matter how far apart we may be on the trail.”

MXT275 — Sleek Design Meets Functionality

The MXT275 takes the MXT115’s power and adds a Fully-Integrated Control Microphone that tucks neatly away- in the center console, under the driver or passenger seat, or even the glove box. This means more room on your dash for other gadgets and easier access to controls without clutter.

It’s a true plug-and-play radio that triples the power of handheld radios, features eight repeater channels for range extension, and of course, includes life-saving weather alerts.

Mark Baker raves about its durability:

“We run them in our side by side. It has clear and loud audio and is very durable. This radio has been through mud and rain, still going.”

Overlanding family Anderson Overland adds:

“The Midland MXT275 has been an invaluable companion on our adventures, providing crystal-clear communication no matter where the journey takes us.”

Bold Overland sums it up well:

“We’ve been using these radios for past 5 months and can honestly say they are an essential piece of equipment.”

MXT500 — Heavy-Duty Power for Serious Range

When range is your top priority, the MXT500 is a game changer.

It cranks the GMRS power to a maximum 50 Watts — the legal limit — giving you unmatched reach on open highways or remote backcountry trails.

Its IP66 waterproof rating means it can handle dust, rain, and rough conditions without skipping a beat, making it perfect for open-air vehicles.

Noise-cancelling tech ensures clear communication by reducing background noise from the trail, while selectable bandwidth lets you fine-tune the signal for your environment.

With pre-programmed privacy channels, you can keep your conversations secure from other nearby GMRS users.

Chris Holloway from MOORE Expo praises the MXT500’s reliability:

"Midland’s MicroMobile radios were essential for the Midwest Discovery Route. Reliable, crystal-clear communication kept our team connected across miles of rugged terrain — especially where cell service dropped out.”

Chase.In.Point shares:

“I’ve used this to communicate with others as far as 35 miles... communication was crisp and clear.”

Nick Bravo adds:

“I was blown away by the range and clarity! Having the capability to communicate efficiently and effectively while out on the trails is all I could ever ask for.”

MXT575 — All the Power, Less Dash Clutter

If you want the power of the MXT500, but prefer a cleaner dashboard, the MXT575 fits the bill.

It pairs the 50-Watt powerhouse radio with a Fully-Integrated Control Microphone that hides away until you need it.

This combo delivers the ultimate mix of range, power, and a clean setup.

Jason Specht of MSOverland relies on the MXT575 for his guide vehicles:

“It’s extremely useful to have a base unit like this with all of the features and controls baked into the handset.”

Asia Sampson from Baptism Overland says:

“The MXT575 is hands down the best radio on the market; simple to install and everything is controlled with the handset.”

Colepepper, a Jeep club member, notes:

“The range is amazing... Our Jeep club runs all Midland MXT275 radios and after seeing the range and clarity of my MXT575, they are all planning on upgrading to the MXT575.”

John Ashley adds:

“Clear, strong reception - recommended.”

Mike G appreciates how well the MXT575 fits his Jeep:

“Fits nicely under the driver seat... Simple and easy to use.”

Step 2: Boost Your Signal with Midland’s Bull Bar Antenna Line

Your radio’s power is only part of what you need for your trail kit.

The antenna you choose has a massive impact on how far and clearly your signal travels.

When you choose the wrong antenna, communication could be impacted when you’re navigating hills, dense forests, or canyons.

Midland’s bull bar antennas are designed to withstand the rigors of overlanding while boosting your range and reliability.

Here are your antenna options, each tailored for different environments:

MXAT01VP Grand Vista™ — Reach for the Sky

Standing tall at 50 inches with a 7.5 dB gain, the Grand Vista is built for performance on wide open plains, highways, or flat desert terrain.

Its fiberglass construction is tough and weather resistant, and it uses an NMO-style mount, so if you already have a CB antenna cable installed, setup is a breeze.

When you need to maximize line-of-sight communication, this is your go-to.

MXAT03 Canyon Edge™ — Built to Battle Dense Terrain

At 28 inches, the Canyon Edge packs a punch.

It’s made for environments with heavy obstructions like thick forests or mountainous trails.

The heavy-duty build handles bumps, brush, and harsh trail conditions without impacting two-way radio performance.

This antenna is designed to be your reliable partner when the trail gets tough.

MXAT04VP Highland™ Tall — Ready for the Rough

The Highland Tall offers 6.6 dB gain at nearly 48 inches tall, giving you excellent range in lightly obstructed areas.

Its interchangeable spring mount base is engineered for durability and flexibility, letting it absorb shocks from rough roads while keeping your two-way radio signal strong.

The MXAT04VP is interchangeable with the MXAT05, as long as you have the spring base.

MXAT05VP Highland™ — Compact and Consistent

If you’re in an area with lots of trees or rocky outcrops, the shorter 28.5-inch Highland antenna with 3 dB gain delivers consistent signal performance.

Like its taller sibling, it sports a heavy-duty spring base mount that can take a beating and keep you talking.

The MXAT05VP is interchangeable with the MXAT04, as long as you have the spring base.

Step 3: Make Sure You Hear Every Word with Midland External Speakers

Once you have your radio and antenna setup, the next step is making sure you can hear everything clearly — even when your vehicle’s engine is roaring, wind is whipping, or you’re cruising noisy trails.

Midland’s external speakers are designed to amplify your two-way radio’s sound output and reduce ambient noise.

Here’s how to pick the perfect speaker for your trail kit.

SPKMINI — Small, but Mighty

This compact speaker is perfect if you have limited space but still need loud, clear sound.

Rated IP67 for waterproof and dustproof protection, the SPKMINI fits almost anywhere and pumps out a solid 10 Watts with an 8-ohm driver.

SPK100 — Power and Durability

If you want more volume and a tough build, the SPK100 delivers 20 Watts of crystal-clear audio.

It’s designed for tough environments with an IP67 rating that ensures it keeps working through rain, mud, or dust.

SPK200 — Next-Level Clarity with AI Noise Cancellation

For the ultimate communication experience, the SPK200 pairs 20 Watts of power with a voice-learning AI chip that actively cancels background noise.

This means you get clear, sharp communication even in the loudest, bumpiest conditions — perfect for group rides or noisy engines.

How Your Midland Two-Way Radio Bundle Comes Together on the Trail

By combining a Midland MicroMobile GMRS radio with the right bull bar antenna and external speaker, you create a communication system built to handle the unpredictable nature of overlanding.

Enhanced Range and Power: Whether you choose 15 Watts or the 50-Watt max, combined with a high-gain antenna, you’re covering more ground — literally. This lets you stay connected across valleys, forests, or stretches of desert where cell phones simply don’t reach.

Clear, Loud Audio: External speakers ensure that when your buddy calls out a warning or route change, you hear it loud and clear despite engine noise or wind.

Heavy-Duty Durability: All Midland components are designed to stand up to the elements — from waterproof radios and dustproof speakers to shock-absorbing antenna mounts — so your system stays reliable trip after trip.

Safety First: With instant access to National Weather Service alerts and emergency channels, your Midland system is more than just communication — it’s your safety net when you’re far from help.

Ready to Build Your Midland Two-Way Radio Bundle?

Midland’s lineup of MicroMobile radios, bull bar antennas, and external speakers makes it easy to customize your overlanding communication setup for your specific needs and terrain.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time explorer, a Midland two-way radio bundle gives you confidence, control, and connection on every trail.

Stay connected, stay safe, and enjoy the freedom of the open trail with Midland.