Two way radio?

[Paivi]

Am off touring shortly and need to get a set of two-way radios, and am after recommendations. As I might only use them for a fortnight once a year, I don't particularly want to get the expensive Kenwoods.

I've got Autocom but my travelling companion doesn't, so we need some that can be used without it (unless I can persuade her to get Autocom, too, which is not likely). Are there any? Ones that can be used without having to stop to dig out the radio first, that is.

Even if we get radios where Autocom is not necessary, would I, however, be better off using the radio through it?