Radio's? Yes, radios or at least a scanner is a must. most radios are easily modified and most radios cover in the recieve mode much of local, state and some federal frequencies. For me, having a radio is my ear to hearing things that I would not otherwise hear.
In 10 minutes I found over 30 transcievers for around $30 -$50. Most of them were dual-band radios meaning they cover VHF and UHF. Without modifications this coverage gives you access to local and state police, fire, ambulance, EMS, hospitals, PG&E and other utility agencies like water. Not sure what agencies will be operaing after SHTF and that depends on what disaster has happened and how much has been affected or how big the disaster is. I know many officers have told me when a SHTF scenario occurs they most likely will be home protecting their families. even with an unmodified radio you can hear some very valuable things that may help you decide on your next move. you decide to head south and you hear on your radio that there are serious battles going on for food and other resources south on the route you were going to take. This will stop you in your tracks and you must re-evaluate your plan to keep yourself and family safe. there are many situations where a radio will keep you safe and out of the path of law enforcement as well as the criminals or the frantic and dangerous public who are just trying to survive. a crowd of people can be a good sight or can be the thing you are trying to avoid. Myself i would avoid it because confronting a good group of people who are hungry and scared might just turn on you to take what you have. They are capable of just about anything so avoiding large groups should be a must. Just consider that ANYONE can be a threat so never let down your guard.
at the price these days I would recommend getting a cheap radio and learn how to use it. Go online and discover the many resources to obtain radio frequencies for your area and frequencies for areas you may be headed to. Getting (2) two radios, one for yourself and one for someone in your group that knows how to use it and someone you know you can trust. Anyone who is doing recon or just out gathering wood should have one and if the need arises he can alert you to incoming guests that were not invited.
This is a must to have and at the prices today why wouldn't you get at least one radio? It's a powerful tool that CAN save your life and the lives of your loved ones.
Today your supposed to get a license but thats if your going to talk on it. After SHTF I doubt anyone is going to ask if your licensed.
This is a link to ebay so you can see how inexpensive radios are these days.
https://www.ebay.com/i/252780031575?chn=ps
As for things that are important, radios are at the top of that list. If you don't understand how important get one, learn how to use it then listen everyday for a week then you'll understand what your missing. It's a good investment and i'm sure you can afford something that could keep you safe and alive.
In responce to prior posts:
Are there any other frequencies you recommend that i should program in incase shtf? Thanks!!!
Other than emergency frequencies like police and fire, utility companies like gas and electric, hosptal frequencies, county transportation. There are many others who by listening could give you important information as to what is going on in your area, like road closures, areas with gas hazards, areas of fire, areas a civil unrest.
The software mentined above for the U5RV is great when you learn how to use it. Allows you to customize everything you put into your radio and you can create frequency lists for your area and for ares you may frequently go and save them until you plan on going to that area then you just hook everything up and switch files and program and go. stay with it, you'll get it and you'll be glad you did. good Luck.