I'm looking at radios to mount in my 93 runner. I've narrowed the choices a bit through various reviews and have it down to the Kenwood TM-281A or a Yaesu FT-2900. I'm only interested in 2 meter at the moment because I'm new to ham and don't want to waste a bunch of money on a hobby that may not hold my interest, but having the radio as a backup communication line seems prudent for trails. For less than $200 in radio and antenna, I should be able to accomplish the minimum requirement.

I'm also looking for optimal antenna placement. I'll be carrying a pair of kayaks and have to clear the sunroof with whatever I mount. So far, I've settled on drilling the roof for NMO, but want to ensure I clear everything that needs to move.

I'm planning to use Anderson Power Poles and distribution for power to the inside of the vehicle with this. That will give me plenty of outputs. Only planning to use two right away. One for the radio and a second for a battery charger for my RC planes. The USB is a bonus for various pieces of hardware that I carry too.

Any ideas or recommendations?