I have the same radio, the VX-7R. Although not type accepted as an FRS or GMRS radio, it will actually cover those with a readily available modification (in an emergency). I don't encourage that of course but, the radio is designed to transmit on a lot more than what is open on the US version. Like most mfg's, the basic handheld chassis is sometimes used for more than one service. This particular radio is very flexible, handling the family radio band, as well as aircraft, and marine VHF bands.

I keep one in the truck, along with a national repeater directory. I can't think of many places in CONUS that I couldn't find some repeater that I could hit. Plenty of places that I'd never have cell coverage, but that I could trigger a repeater. With ECHOLINK on many repeaters, that means you have worldwide capability with a handheld from almost anywhere.