The crackle of the campfire, the serenity of the landscape, a sky full of stars, and...a power generator? Getting off the grid this summer means setting up a camp that is unencumbered by the hum of nonrenewable energy. Solar power for camping has revolutionized outdoor adventuring, and products sold through Humless help you get comfy and go green on any outing. Here is everything you’ll need to use solar power on your next trip.
A basic self-sufficient grid setup consists of panels and storage (battery). You should also consider a solar regulator (charge controller), and a power inverter for charging larger appliances.
There are three types of solar panels for camping. Amorphous solar panels necessitate a larger surface area but are more compact because they can be folded or rolled up. Monocrystalline panels are more expensive than polycrystalline, but they have the capacity to gather more power.
The best battery for your setup depends on your intended power usage. Be aware of the battery’s watt-hour storage value, and if you are looking to charge laptops, cameras, or small refrigerators, 400 watt-hours or more will do.
A power inverter works to convert 12v DC power (battery power) into 240v AC power (household power), resulting in consistent power without surges or spikes. Make sure that your power inverter for camping can produce enough power to support what you plan to bring.
For a system tailored to your needs, you will need to calculate your equipment’s power usage. Utilize the power draw found on the label of each product and determine how long your system will operate during the day. Experts at Humless can help you find products that fit these requirements.
It’s one thing to use solar power for camping, and it’s another to maximize it. Ideal placement, alignment, and positioning of your panels are essential for optimizing output. Place panels perpendicular to the sun to amass the most solar energy. Be precise, as slight angles can affect the energy accrued and power created.
Panels often accumulate dirt, dust, and debris, so regularly clean them off using a microfiber cloth. Anything more abrasive can be damaging.
Travelers taking longer tours in a caravan or trailer might consider roof-mounted panels to optimize gathering power as you drive. On the contrary, overnight campers might benefit more from a compact system that saves space.
The benefits of using solar power for camping are endless:
With the accessibility and efficiency of solar power products, you can brave trails, rivers, and roads without sacrificing environmental consciousness or the comforts of home. Contact Humless today to go green with solar power!
Article reviewed by: Glenn Jakins (CEO Humless)