Solar Solutions for Camping

When you choose solar-powered camping items, you get to the heart of what camping is all about. Camping means relying on the elements and connecting with nature. Adding some solar items to your camping gear means you are truly depending on the power of the sun. These tools make camping more fun and convenient.

Rather than leaving the campsite to look for an outlet and having to pack power strips, you can keep enjoying the great outdoors and use your solar devices for lighting and to recharge devices such as smartphones and tablets.

As an added benefit, solar solutions for camping can make your campsite easier to navigate. This is especially helpful if you have little ones along on your trip. By limiting the number of cords and power strips running across your camping area, you create an environment that is much safer for children whose only focus is running around and having fun. Make the most of every camping trip with convenient and dependable solar-powered items.

There are many options for camping solar panels and batteries. Looking for the best portable solar panels for camping ensures that transportation is as convenient as possible. Foldable solar panels are lightweight and easier to pack, set up and take down at the end of the trip.

Be sure to plan ahead for inclement weather conditions. Rainy camping trips do happen, and you want to be ready for it. In these situations, you will want solar panels and batteries that are safe to use in different types of weather.

Another feature to compare across products is the wattage. Most solar panels have an output of 50 to 100 watts. The wattage of a solar panel determines which devices you can use and charge with the panel. When people ask, "Are portable solar panels worth it?" they often want to know whether the panels will work with their devices. Checking wattage helps you select the right model.

If your family has substantial power needs, consider the benefits of chainable solar panel kits. These panels link together to harness more solar energy. What size solar panel do you need for camping? That all depends on how much space you have for storage and setup as well as which devices you want to power.

Both solar-powered and batter-powered flashlights and portable lights offer convenient camp lighting options. Flashlights vary in terms the lumens, or light they put out. If you have young children and frequently make nighttime trips to the restroom, a powerful flashlight can help you avoid obstacles. Some flashlights have multiple lighting modes, allowing you to choose a higher lumen output when necessary and save power when possible.

Other features make it easy to find the right solar flashlight. Campers who frequent swampy areas or areas prone to rain often prefer water-resistant flashlights. Lightweight models are easier to carry and more convenient for long trips, but heavy-duty models often have additional features. For example, some heavier flashlights work as power banks or can break car windows if you end up in a sinking car.

If your top priority is never running out of power, look for models that have alternate power sources. Some can also use standard batteries or have a hand crank.

Thanks to solar chargers, external battery packs and other camping gear options, you can take advantage of cellphones and other amenities even when you're away from civilization. There are many options for solar chargers that can power several devices, including:

• Cellphones
• Tablets and e-readers
• Rechargeable battery packs
• Handheld video game consoles
• Digital cameras
• GPS navigation systems

Even if your family generally goes tech-free while camping, having a fully charged cellphone is a matter of safety. A solar charger ensures you can keep your phone charged and respond quickly to any emergencies.

Remember that solar chargers are moderately efficient when compared to standard plug-in chargers. Even if a solar charger has multiple spots for devices, you may require multiple chargers if you have lots of devices. There are significant wattage differences between basic cellphones, smartphones and tablets, so select a charger that's compatible with your needs.

Outdoor speakers offer a simple way to set the mood at the campsite. Note the difference between splash proof and waterproof speakers. While splash proof speakers may withstand exposure to a small amount of water, a waterproof speaker is necessary if there's any risk of submersion or a deluge of rain.

Speakers vary in size, so spend some time thinking about if the device will remain at the campsite or if you will take it on outings. This helps you determine what size is appropriate. Compare noise output and sound quality across various models to find the ideal balance between quality and affordability.

Many solar speakers offer other charging options for your convenience. This feature lets you fully charge the speaker at home before leaving on your trip, making it easier to use the speaker while waiting for solar power to catch up.