Portable Radio Field Checklist

Use this as a starting checklist before a portable radio outing. Adjust it for the actual band, mode, site, weather, and station power level.

Radio and control

• Radio
• Microphone, key, or digital interface
• Speaker, headphones, or audio adapter
• CAT/control cable if needed
• Frequency plan or operating notes

Power

• Battery
• Charger or solar plan if needed
• Fuses or protected power leads
• Voltage meter or battery monitor
• Spare adapters for the actual connector types in use

Antenna and feedline

• Antenna wire, vertical, linked dipole, or other planned antenna
• Feedline
• Unun, balun, choke, or matching unit if part of the setup
• Mast, pole, throw line, or support plan
• Stakes, cordage, and strain relief

Logging and reference

• Paper log or logging device
• Pencil or backup writing tool
• Maidenhead grid, park/summit/reference details if relevant
• Local band plan or operating constraints

Safety and site checks

• Keep antennas, masts, and support lines away from power lines
• Check weather, wind, heat, and trip hazards before setup
• Keep feedline and guy lines visible enough that people do not trip over them
• Confirm the operating position is safe and legal for the site

Before leaving home

• Test the exact radio, battery, antenna, interface, cables, and software combination
• Confirm the station can receive
• Confirm transmit control works where applicable
• Pack only after the full signal and power chain has been checked