In this day of iPods and Internet radio, lame-o AM/FM radio is often forgotten. Most people have no clue what a shortwave radio is. But a good radio is a surefire way of getting up-to-the-minute information while on the move or without an internet connection--backpacking, camping, hiking, traveling, etc. The .gov has emergency broadcast systems set up to respond in cases of emergency and natural disaster. It's a survival kit no-brainer.
These days, some phones and MP3 players have AM/FM radios built right into them. Even my current POS Nokia phone has one--a surprisingly decent one--though it requires a headset to function. I bought a headset at the dollar store and keep it in my EDC bag. A built-in radio is a pretty good feature to look for; keep it in mind if you're in the market for a new phone or media player.
That being said, I want a more robust and stand-alone device for my EDC/travel bag and for using around the house. Something with shortwave capability--I have memories of playing around with my dad's Sony shortwave as a kid, getting in transmissions from what I guessed to be Europe. Needs to be pocket sized, run on AAs, reasonably sturdy, and ideally around $30.
The Kaito KA202L