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In the modern world, we are used to the comforts of electronic devices. Though you won’t be packing every electronic device you own if you are planning on a camping trip, you still need to pack a few basic devices. This results in a new dilemma, how to power electronic devices while Overlanding. Thankfully, there are a few different solutions to this problem.
Types Of Power Sources
Choosing the right power source depends on your requirements. Depending on the duration of your Overlanding expedition, the number of devices you need to power, and the amount of room you can spare, some options might be more suitable for you than others.
Here are a few of the best options to use as a power source.
1. Solar Power
Solar power is a trending power source for those who go Overlanding. But is it the best choice?
The benefit of using a solar panel is that there is an unlimited supply. All you need is a bit of sunlight to get your solar panel out. Some solar panels give you the ability to store electricity. These tend to be much more beneficial than a solar panel that is not capable of storing electricity.
Apart from the initial investment, you do not need to spend another dime on a solar panel. They do not require maintenance or any type of fuel. This means that they are also environmentally friendly nor do they contribute to noise pollution. So, if you are looking for some peace and tranquility outdoors, a solar panel is a good option.
Solar panels depend on sunlight. So, if you do not get intense sunlight, you won’t get a lot of power out of it. So, depending on the weather and the climate, the effectiveness of solar power will vary.
Another issue with solar power is the time it takes to generate power. For someone who is constantly on the move, solar panels aren’t the best choice. To generate enough power to sustain an entire campsite, you would need a large array of solar panels.
- Efficient: 50w 18-22v Panel
- Built-in charging Cable for power stations and USB for devices
- Foldable and easily to transport
2. Inverter Generator
An inverter generator is a smaller version of the conventional generator. This means that it is portable. You can throw it on the back of your truck and go on an Overlanding expedition.
But is it effective? Inverters are available in a variety of different sizes. Depending on the amount of power you need, you can choose a size that suits you best. Still, powering an entire campsite is not an option. You should be able to power small electronic devices via an inverter.
An inverter works on fuel. Though it is considered a fuel-efficient option, you need to pack some extra fuel for the inverter. As it burns fossil fuels, it is not considered an environmentally friendly option either. Some parks do not allow the use of inverters on their campsites.
The bottom line is that an inverter can produce enough power to charge your phone, laptop, camera gear, and even your lamps. So, it can be considered one of the best power sources to power your devices during an Overlanding expedition.
- 2500 Watt and can run on propane or gas
- Two 120v 20A outlets
- 39lbs and compact. Can be easily stored in your vehicle
3. Power Bank
Power banks are another great option for a portable power source. They come in a variety of capacities ranging from 5000mAh to 100,000mAh. Again, this is another device that is great for charging your mobile phone and camera gear.
One of the drawbacks of a power bank is that when it is depleted there is no use for it. Or you could end up carrying more power than you require. Non the less, a power bank is easier to carry around than other power sources.
- 240WH Lithium Battery
- One 120v plug and two USB ports
- Can be charged by solar, wall outlet, and car outlet
4. Power Inverter
A power inverter converts DC current into a usable AC current. For an Overlanding expedition, you can connect a power inverter to your car battery and use the power in it. While there are many different types, the most convenient are the ones that plug into your car’s cigarette lighter. That way you’ll be able to charge your electronic devices on the go.
The only drawback of a power inverter is that it will deplete your car’s battery. So, beware of using it when your car is not running. If you drain your battery, you will have problems starting your car the next day.
An option that Overlanders use to overcome this problem is to mod your car with a dual battery system. This is basically using two batteries instead of one. But setting up such a system is complicated. Not all rides have the room to accommodate another battery. And setting this up could also be costly.
- 1000w Connects directly to battery or cigarette lighter
- Features two 120v plugs and two USB ports
- Most affordable and smallest option
Choosing What Suits You Best
Even though you might be on a voyage far from human presence, you cannot disconnect yourself from the modern world. This means that you need a power source to uphold your electronic devices.
Above are the best sources of power you can take on an Overlanding journey. When choosing the power source, you need to look at your requirements. Assess the pros and cons of each power source.
Depending on the volume of power you need, the environment that you are journeying into, and the amount of room you can spare, some options might suit you better than others.
