NASCAR Camping Things to Have – Scanners!

Scanners get you front row to the racing action.
© Photo Courtesy of Patti Buchanan

If you are there for more than the party - Scanners & Headsets should be on your list of “NASCAR camping things to have”.

With two or three races
(ARCA, TRUCKS, NXS, or NSCS), practices and qualifying there’s plenty of action every race weekend.   Scanners get you front row to all the action with access to driver/crew chief communications or radio/TV broadcast channels so you can follow activities as it unfolds on the track. 

If you’re a regular you already know and have purchased them.  If it’s your first time you may want to rent a scanner at the track.  Some tracks offer “weekend specials” which may include scanner and headset rentals with the purchase of your tickets.  Be sure to ask your ticket rep (or check online) for any promotions or discounts.

* * *  Helpful Tips  * * *

Headset with intercom microphone capability
Internet Photo / Ebay

Splitter cables can be used with multiple headsets so that you can share the experience with a friend.  There are even microphone headsets that allow you to talk over the noise.  Headsets are padded which may offer you some hearing protection.

If you rent, the infield scanner trailers are not usually busy.  However, if you decide to pick your scanner up outside the track, get there early to give you plenty of time to check out the other activities before it’s time to find your seats.

Able to watch the replays of "The BIG One"
© Photo Courtesy of Melanie Milne

Pack extra batteries.  Nothing sucks more than getting all the way to 10 laps to go and you don’t have any spare batteries.

Some tracks offer scanners that allow you to listen and WATCH the race.  Although I’m not a big fan of these it does allow you to see the instant replays after “The Big One” and you can see what may have happened to your driver in the pits.

Rentals require you use a major credit card in case your scanner is lost or damaged. There may be a small fee to purchase the driver’s frequency sheets if you already own one.

Bus top view with radio commentary.

© Photo Courtesy of Melanie Milne

If you have problems with programming or finding the channel of your choice ask someone nearby, other fans are generally happy to help.

Check out Amazon.com to review comments on scanners.  You can often find brand name models at decent prices.

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Enjoy the races and happy scanning! 





** ©2015 The Infield Guru.  The Infield Guru is not affiliated with and does not endorse any specific track or driver.  This article is for information purposes only. There are no guarantees regarding the availability or quantities of any of the above items. Prices are subject to change without notice. Please contact the specific track or appropriate websites for more detailed information regarding limits and expiration of these offers.  If the links fail to open for you, check your pop-up blocking software or consider calling the tracks directly.