GMRS, FRS, CB or MURS are all consumer type radios that anyone can use. There is ham but you need a license. FRS are those little bubble pack radios. GMRS is similiar but can be had in higher power versions. Technically you need a license but the FCC is probably not going to hunt you down and fine you. MURS is in the VHF band and less common. And of course we all know about CB. IMHO the little FRS/GMRS radios would be the cheapest and easiest. Texting is great IF, you have a cell phone and are in an area with service. Jim and I run in areas where there is no cell service and we use our radios.