There are several local amateur radio repeaters in the southern Maryland area. Wikipedia defines amateur radio repeaters as; “an electronic device that receives a weak or low-level amateur radio signal and retransmits it at a higher level or higher power, so that the signal can cover longer distances without degradation.” Local repeaters will allow you to use your handheld transceiver to contact others at distances that the handheld is not capable of reaching on its own. You can also use your mobile station or your base station to reach the local amateur radio repeaters, some of which are linked together to offer even greater reach for amateur radio communication.
If you are planning to travel you can find the amateur radio repeaters of your destination area by visiting the Repeater Book website ahead of time.