So lets talk about staying in touch with the outside world. Everyone needs at least a half way decent SW radio to hear what is going on in the world. Even if ya can't talk ya can listen. I have three portables. If you have nothing then I would look at a Kaito KA1103 or if your short on $$ even a Grundig s350 would be better than nothing. Used I am still fond of the old Radio shack DX-440. You should be able to get a good one for under $60. Every now and then some good deals will pop up but you have to know what your looking at.

Also, get the antenna outside. All the above have an external connection and ya need to use it.