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Solar Panel, Anker 21W 2-Port USB Portable Solar Charger with Foldable Panel, PowerPort Solar for iPhone 11/Xs/XS Max/XR/X/8/7, iPad Pro/Air/Mini, Galaxy S9/S8/S7/S6, and More?
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Enhance.. enhance...enhance
Anker PowerPort Solar 2 Ports 21W Dual USB Solar Charger for iPhone 7 / 6s / Plus, iPad Pro / Air 2 / mini, Galaxy S7 / S6 / Edge / Plus, Note 5 / 4, LG, Nexus, HTC and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ZJzjBb763P0GB
I bought this one about a year ago but have not used it yet in the real world. The price has more than doubled, I was shocked. Not sure if it's just this model or if the prices have gone up in general. I paid $59, now it's going for $139.
First, thank you for not getting twisted up with my post. I really wasn’t trying to knock you. I am just generally astounded that some of these things just would be standard to people. And yes I understand the apartment but they make some pretty decent fold up solar panels for back packers. You could get one of those and easily set it up in the window and the better ones should be able to charge most phones, all be it slowly. here is one on sale As you said, a battery is good for the short term but this would be a solution for longer periods of downtime. I have found being prepared can easily and best works in stages. You’ve got a short term solution for your phone and this could be the next step. You don’t have to jump straight to energy grid independence. I wish you well OP and while I am far from an expert, I welcome any relevant questions you may have.
I have used one of these for several years now. It does a great job and has held up well to several cross-country trips. The pro-tier setup in my opinion is to pair it with a large USB power bank (I have Anker's 26800 mAH model). You can charge both your phone and the bank off the panel, and the bank lets you work comfortably through the night and cloudy times.
There are many options now. Goal zero does not last. I product tested a nomad for them 8 or 10 years ago. It didn’t last and they only ever asked about first impressions. I got this one by Anker years ago and it still surprises me how well it works and lasts.
I have this one.
Looks like for $10 more you can get a nicer one. This one is kind of flexible and has held up well. I have left it on the car dash and dragged it around the desert a bit scratched up but it's fine. Much cheaper than the goal zero etc
Solar Panel, Anker 21W 2-Port USB Portable Solar Charger with Foldable Panel, PowerPort Solar for iPhone 11/Xs/XS Max/XR/X/8/7, iPad Pro/Air/Mini, Galaxy S9/S8/S7/S6, and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_54WH4GEMQRTKH59W3HBY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
A portable usb solar panel. It’s not super fast but it’s charged my phone at the beach and charged my power banks while on a work trip. I have tried and successfully used my phone without plugging it in the wall for a whole 4 days.
Is it not something like this? https://smile.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2RANH91FGKJNL&dchild=1&keywords=portable+solar+panel&qid=1601057938&sprefix=portable+solar%2Caps%2C272&sr=8-5
There are a bunch of portable/flexible solar chargers that are about $50-75. Should just be a folding panel with USB output.
This is the one I have, an Anker, it works well: https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8
There are similar ones that are cheaper. I think the big fold-out ones like that are probably better than the small power pack ones - they might work ok but not as quickly.
>They should give out solar chargers
The solar chargers that actually work are more expensive. Like this one:
The cheap little ones that you see on amazon or elsewhere will take days to actually charge a phone.
Even the good solar chargers take full sunlight to charge. Do you want to sit out in the sun?
Also, having nice things that you can't hide is a good way to get robbed while homeless. I had the solar charger in the link for a little while when I was homeless but I didn't use it much because it's to visible, the street trash will rob you for it, (to be clear, the homeless won't rob you, the street trash will, there are a lot of people who aren't homeless but they hang out in the homeless communities for the free food and panhandling and to steal from the homeless). The street trash are ones who give the homeless a bad name.
I bought this solar charger 2 years ago and it still works. Charges at a fairly good rate too. Nice and slim and lightweight also. As for powerbanks I'm not sure on that one as I only needed this to charge my phone while in the field with the Army.
Anker 21W Dual USB Solar Charger, PowerPort Solar for iPhone 7 / 6s / Plus, iPad Pro/Air 2 / Mini, Galaxy S7 / S6 / Edge/Plus, Note 5/4, LG, Nexus, HTC and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_euH-CbVGGBH1K
Argh, no clue how i managed to mess up theblinks there, I’m sorry. Inremember the expensive ine : https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2B1BSRO8HYJYC&keywords=anker+portable+solar+charger&qid=1556487644&s=gateway&sprefix=anker+portable+solar&sr=8-3
Not sure if ghe cost is worth it but it can serve as a benchmark
Just rey and get the most wattage you can confortably fit on your backpack and definiately condider the dual usb charger power banks, they seem really ideal in combo with most of ghe solar chargers out there
The one you linked has usb-c built in which could be really interesting for powering your cam directly. This would be more efficient than going trough power banks, so definiately check that out. Dont be afraid go use your 30 day return policy to test stuff out.
Do report back on your findings and give a shout when you’re heading off! Gl out there!
I recommend the anker solar charger. It's like $70. I used it on the PCT and just left it plugged into my battery pack attached to my pack. It'd give me about a phones worth of charge a day (on a clear day. Useless if it's cloudy).
If you get it a couple tips: only plug it into your battery. I tried it direct to my phone, but the power cutting on and off actually caused the battery to drain faster. Also, be very mindful of the USB plug. The USB port on my battery wound up breaking from the plug wiggling while I was walking.
Edit: this is the one I used
This will take 8hrs of direct sun to charge a typical 10,000mah portable phone charger. A solar panel the size of a shoe box would take 2-3 days. Everyone thinks solar power is some miracle technology but in reality it's really inefficient, expensive, and no ROI. Simple math debunks pretty much 99% of the solar claims all those nutjobs make.
If I was camping for a week and needed power I'd grab Yamaha EF2000iSv2
Also those stupid battery generators? GoYeti wants $1500 for 100aH of battery power generator. I can make a 200aH battery generator for $250.
How many places in the world are you likely to get wind but not also sun? This is $62
My group uses This one. Not sure if it's the same, it's pretty big, though it folds up and IS portable. You can plug your phone right in or charge a battery pack from it.
You're probably not going to get a portable one that will recharge a significant battery in a short amount of time. With solar bigger = more current, so the only real way to charge faster is to get a larger panel, and then it becomes not very portable.
But the flip side is a solar charger will charge faster than this stove, and won't require you to tend to it with fuel the whole time. That said, this panel and probably fully charge a cell phone in a few hours if you have strong direct sunlight.
AFAIK the Garmin doesn't receive GPS data from a phone, nor does it send that info back out.
If you're already tracking the hike with your phone, and are somehow keeping that charged you could get by for quite a while with spot checks on the Garmin. I use my old Fenix 1 for a week or two without charging, only having the GPS on for 10 minutes to an hour here and there. Compass, barometer, altimeter, temperature and clock work without the GPS on.
I also highly recommend a solar panel charger, and a USB battery pack. I have this one:https://www.amazon.ca/Anker-PowerPort-Dual-Port-Charger-iPhone/dp/B012YUJJM8 which goes on sale for $80 CAD every now and then. It can charge 2 things directly (has 2 USB plugs), but I use it to charge a battery, and then use the battery to charge my other kit at night while I sleep. It is able to charge a 13000 mah battery in about 4 to 7 hours in direct sunlight.
AFAIK the Garmin doesn't receive GPS data from a phone, nor does it send that info back out.
If you're already tracking the hike with your phone, and are somehow keeping that charged you could get by for quite a while with spot checks on the Garmin. I use my old Fenix 1 for a week or two without charging, only having the GPS on for 10 minutes to an hour here and there. Compass, barometer, altimeter, temperature and clock work without the GPS on.
I also highly recommend a solar panel charger, and a USB battery pack. I have this one:https://www.amazon.ca/Anker-PowerPort-Dual-Port-Charger-iPhone/dp/B012YUJJM8 which goes on sale for $80 CAD every now and then. It can charge 2 things directly (has 2 USB plugs), but I use it to charge a battery, and then use the battery to charge my other kit at night while I sleep. It is able to charge a 13000 mah battery in about 4 to 7 hours in direct sunlight.
The best bang for you buck:
Anker PowerPort Solar (21W Dual-Port USB Solar Charger) for iPhone 7 / 6s / 6 / Plus, iPad Air 2 / mini 3, Galaxy S6 / Edge / Plus and More https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_apa_.lEJzb0EJVEEZ
High wattage, durable and a good price.
Edit: I didn't realize you were into options other than a solar panel. I personally have an Anker 10,000 mAH and an Aukey 10,500 mAH power banks and they're both awesome. I prefer the power banks over the solar charger.
So you isolate your battery and run the original van stuff from solar? I was looking at one of those small Anker solar panels just to top up my power bank. I don't need much power but I still find this stuff pretty interesting.
late response, but maybe it's still useful to you: I've used mine at local events (Utah) and it works pretty fantastically. Don't waste your packing space with portable battery packs if you can avoid it. I spent about $50 on this little solar panel to run the fans ( https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012YUJJM8 ) and it makes it so the fans turn on when the sun's up and off when it goes down.
I've been able to sleep in until 4 in the afternoon without the fans. With the fans, the interior basically cannot get above ambient temp. It is quite dark inside as the only light coming through is from the couple inches of gap at the bottom where the fly floats just above the ground. The vestibules are huge too. Cooler doesn't have to come inside the sleeping area of the tent and doesn't soak heat from the ground since the ground is never getting any sun.
Are you going south to north? If so, you could look into some of the bigger solar panels, Amazon has a 21 watt model by "anker" that I've been looking at recently.
You can hang them over your backpack and be charging all day.
Anker 21W 2-Port USB Universal PowerPort Solar Charger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_IvxOybPRQZES0
Ive seen the GZ kits on amazon and yes they are definitely the apple of solar gear LOL. I'm definitely looking for a different application, but in respect to your comment i've also been looking a this solar charger similar to yours which may be great as well for my device charging needs.
Anker 21W 2-Port USB Solar Charger PowerPort Solar for iPhone 6/6 Plus, iPad Air 2/mini 3, Galaxy S6/S6 Edge and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_aCG4xbB3Z821Z
21 watts is more than a phone can handle. Solar chargers are great now.
There are hundreds of options that fit that category and don't require you to purchase a new tent.
Alternatively I got one of these http://www.amazon.com/Anker-2-Port-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1460019948&sr=8-2&keywords=usb+solar+panel
They work pretty well and you dont have to worry about your battery pack going dead
http://www.amazon.com/Anker-2-Port-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone/dp/B012YUJJM8
Anker 21-Watt PowerPort folding solar array, if you want to bother with solar at all.
Disclosure: I own one; I am "light," not "ultralight" and fine with that. I only carry that if I'm going out for an extended trip where I want to recharge a power pack, e-reader, phone, whatever.
Well, let's do the math -- comparing to other solar panels, that surface area might be good for about 2-3 watts, maybe a little more in very direct sunlight. That's about 500 milliamps at USB standard 5 volts, so your 12000 mah battery will take at least 24 hours of sunlight to charge. Assuming you can get 5 hours exposure per day, that might be about 5 days. You might scrape a day or two off that total if you can keep it in direct (as in, pointed at the sun) sunlight.
But you know, even if you never charge it completely on sunlight, 5 hours * 500ma is still a useful amount of power if you're just trying to keep your phone topped off for a couple of days off the grid. There are charging losses of course -- something like 10-15% of power lost to heat to charge the battery inside the charger, then again when you charge your phone battery.
For comparison, this solar panel set from Anker generates 21 watts in direct sunlight, but it's got three panels each about as large as an iPad and costs $55.
No. Many of the panels seem to come from the same Chinese factories, though, resulting in very trivial differences which may make some of them look like an Anker you have in mind.
We spoke with Anker directly, and they told us they don't sell solar panels in the US and that any Amazon listings (like this one) are fake or people reselling without permission — which may explain why that Amazon listing is ridiculously overpriced, as if someone is importing and adding a markup.
In the last few days we've kicked around the idea of doing a deeper blog post about these problems on Amazon (partly as a follow up to this thread in /preppers), because that specific link has the "Amazon's Choice" label on it, even though it's unsanctioned.
Edit: There's a full list of the competition in a spreadsheet in the article. As u/callsignraven pointed out, Anker stopped selling panels in the US due to the tariffs.
Wow so this is fake? Seems to have pretty good reviews and fakespot gives it a B. Interesting...
Anker has a few good foldable solar panels on Amazon. They have ways to mount them too a backpack as well. I use my 21w to charge a battery pack and my radio while I'm at work. Highly recommend.
Edit: Amazon links
Anker PowerPort Solar 2 Ports 21W Dual USB Solar Charger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_z0DFBbBC4713M
Anker PowerCore 13000, Compact 13000mAh 2-Port Ultra-Portable Phone Charger Power Bank with PowerIQ and VoltageBoost Technology https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Z9QVE4Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_V0DFBbZN07BHN
22w folding panel should be enough for daily phone charging and occasional camera & tablet charging.
#1 seller on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Anker-2-Port-Universal-PowerPort-Charger/dp/B012YUJJM8
large battery pack with an lcd display and pass-through charging: https://www.amazon.com/Intocircuit-26800mAh-Portable-Charger-External/dp/B01ASWX5PG/
in order to charge your chromebook and a more serious tablet you'll need a bigger solar panel and a bigger battery. /u/dij-8al's solution would be a better fit.
I have a Plug III and a Supernova dynamo hub.
From my experience it only works in flat terrain where you can ride at a decent speed for a longer period of time. If you're riding in mountainy terrain you're going to be too slow on the climbs to charge anything, and while on the descent you are easily fast enough, you won't be descending for long enough to charge your stuff.
Also, The Plug delivers only 500mA at 5V and it does not increase with more speed. So if you want to fully charge a 10.000mAh power bank that will take 20 hours (of riding) in the best case (at 0% efficiency loss). Or 3.62 hours for an iPhone 6 (1.810mAh). But you're going to have at least 20% efficiency loss.
I would recommend using The Plug to power just one device and have it just constantly plugged in. Like this the device's battery will more or less stay at the same level or drain much, much slower.
If you have an Android phone you can turn on battery saving mode which saves a lot of battery. But the phone automatically turns off battery saving mode when it's charging. So you can't have it plugged in to The Plug and use battery saving mode at the same time. For the phone I recommend fully charging it from a power bank and then turning on battery saving mode.
Get a solar panel
They make The Plug sound like the ultimate solution to your electricity needs. But in reality it's more like a nasal cannula for your electronics.
A solar panel will deliver much, much more power than The Plug. I recently bought an Anker PowerPort 21W (non-affiliate Amazon link) and it works really well even in moderate sunlight. It has two ports that can each deliver up to 2.4Ah (almost 5 times as much as The Plug). So in comparison to the above examples that's only 4.16 hours for a 10.000mAh power bank (and you don't even have to pedal) and 0.75 hours for an iPhone 6.
The Anker PowerPort is also really cheap now at $60. It's 40% off on Amazon and even at the full price it would still be rather cheap compared to a similar Goal Zero panel, for example.
Use the solar panel in the morning when you make coffee and breakfast, or over lunch, where you have time to constantly adjust it to the angle to the sun. That's when it will charge most efficiently. If you can, keep it strapped on the bike during the day. It won't be as efficient at imperfect angles but still deliver more power than The Plug.
Bring power banks that are big enough. I would recommend to get somewhere between 10k and 30k mAh total capacity. Get batteries with no moving parts and no integrated flashlights that can accidentally turn on in your panniers and drain it.
USB solar chargers are pretty cheap, coupled with a power pack you would be set for awhile. Anker 21W Dual USB Solar Charger on Amazon $61.99.
>I need to charge my phone up and my battery pack as well, are there any places I can do this without being kicked out/ judged / being a problem?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_PC5999RNDHBZ7DFW1VCQ
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017GQ7OEA/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_0TJCXKGCKBHWA3RRNHPS
If you can afford it, go with the Anker.
I have a similar panel to: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8
Anker has one as well. Both great brands. I've been using and testing(for my self) RavPower, Aukey, and Anker products the last 5-7 years and they are great. Their portable battery banks are top notch quality and hold power for so long.
Ne isplati se kupovat to osim ako ne naletiš na ovako nešto...
https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8
It seems Wyze Cam v3 consumes 2-4 watts depending on night vision. The battery and output look good, but it shows that the solar panel is 1.9W, which I'm assuming is in the best conditions, so it wouldn't charge the battery enough to last indefinitely. Considering night time, cloud coverage, etc, I think that the solar panel needs to be able to put out at least 10W to keep the battery charged.
Probably something like this plus a battery like what you linked that can accept charge + output at the same time (which maybe that one can, but I don't see any confirmation of it).
My solar solution consists of a charger and power bank. You want something to hold that power for use when the solar charger is not useable. It's also really going to depend on what you plan on charging.
Anker 21W Charger - will easily clip on the ooutside of the bag as you hike, or hang from ridgeline or whatever while camping.
Goal Zero Sherpa 100 AC - but really any high-capacity battery bank will do. I keep it in a heavy 2Gal freezer ziplock when not in use. I love this charger, it is my go to for any trip, and is TSA compliant.
For a smaller, more modest kit, I have found this to be of use, and it is great for day trips and I have used it on vacations. Blavor Solar Charger -can hang off the backpack and charge itself while hiking. Note - it will not go from 0% to 100% via solar in a day.
It purely depends on how much power the solar panel is rated for. A lot of those 'power banks with solar' come with solar panels that are so small they're basically useless.
What you want is something in the 20W or higher range, like this one here. Those will easily charge a phone or tablet entirely on their own as long as it's sunny out, and should be just as fast as plugging it into the wall too.
Anker is generally a solid brand as well.
Here's an example of one of the mostly useless ones that will take several days or more to charge a phone via solar only.
I am thinking out loud. One of the reasons for getting a large, expensive, heavy battery bank is for getting by during winter months when there are no sunny days for sometimes 22 days straight. That is the challenge I have currently, in the PNW. That's one way my problem overlaps with your's. I need to avoid relying on batteries and maximize efficiency like a thirsty man looking for water in the Sahara. This is the cloudiest place in the US in December and I am trying to live off-grid as much as possible
BTW, you may be interested in knowing that this CC that I own doesn't require a battery to charge my older 2017 Motorola Moto e(4) cheap phone.
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzJvyTbF05c/UsyWxkIJauI/AAAAAAAAAWY/tkvgxh_qa7w/s1600/IMG_0474.JPG
It's an old CC from Harbor Freight called Thunderbolt. They sell low-end, budget gear. Someone gave it away to me. It can only charge the phone when the CC voltmeter says about 14-15 volts which it does even on winter days as long as it's sunny and even when the 75W panel I'm using is partially shaded by tree shadows. It charges my newer, other phone when I plug in a 120W inverter with USB ports into the cigaratte lighter plug of the CC.
The problem is that it can't charge my phone when the CC's voltmeter says anything less than about 14-15 V. On heavily overcast, winter days like today, it often says about 4 - 8 V for many hours every day. My phone's battery is only 3.8 V. 4 - 8 volts ought to be enough to charge it. One of the reviewers tested this 21W portable solar panel (which you said you own) with a multimeter and said its USB port puts out 5.25 V in early afternoon sun. I own it and it often works even on pretty heavily overcast days (as long as it's not too darkly overcast) when the sun is high enough. The sun isn't even casting a shadow on such days yet my phone still sometimes charges.
https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8
It charges my phone on sunny days even when the sun is behind a few branches or low in the sky a couple hours before sunset. It must be putting out a lot less than 5.25 V during such times. So, my newb question is why can't this Thunderbolt CC do that when it says about 4 to 13 V on cloudy days? I am new to solar and I'm sure there's an obvious answer. Would charging using the method you described, using a dc-to-dc converter, help with my problem, do you think, or am I way off?
"Why can't I get a charge controller like they use? They're tiny, it can't cost more than a few bucks. But they're not available anywhere."
Business opportunity? I just bought a $7 charge controller from Aliexpress. I wonder if we could get one custom made by using Alibaba.com.
After looking at various dc-to-dc converters like this...
I'm starting to get optimistic that I can solve my problem of powering my phone on cloudy, winter, northern-state days. I think I need a dc-to-dc converter that can convert from 24 V to a voltage level as small as what my CC voltmeter says on cloudy days - like 4 or 5 V - rather than just a 24 V to 12 V converter. It's strange that I am not finding many user-friendly ways of solving our problems that don't involve unnecessarily spending a thousand dollars.
I am sure there's a way of solving my cloudiness problem which involves buying 900 watts of solar panels and hooking it up to a 200-ah battery bank but I don't think I have to go to such lengths, for my purposes. What if I want to move out of state or country a year from now? All that stuff is ridiculously un-portable.
Plus, all these things break eventually - inverters (especially), panels, batteries, and CC's. You shouldn't add more crap to landfills and waste your money/time unless necessary.
USB solar panels are a thing. When I went out to summer camp with my scout troop, I powered 7 cell phones for a full week without having to charge up in the scout lodge.
Something like this:
Solar panel: https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8
Large USB power bank: https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Technology-High-Capacity-Compatible/dp/B07S829LBX
Really long USB power cable (to keep the bank out of the weather): https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Powerline-Premium-Motorola-Smartphones/dp/B019Q5PXX8
This setup costs $110, but that's only because it's all Anker gear. If you go with a cheaper brand you can easily get under $100.
One thing that I see missing on this list is a solar charger. I have one of these and it works great for topping off battery banks and other items:
https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8/ $59
Couple that with your battery banks and a couple of these LED USB lights:
https://www.amazon.com/Onite-20-US24USB3W-WW-Warehouse-Emergency-WarmWhite/dp/B00QX096L0 $9
Then you can recharge your lighting source every day.
I'd also recommend these rechargeable bulbs in strategic locations in your home:
https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-Emergency-JackonLux-Multi-Function-Equivalent/dp/B0797RK52Q/$18 for 2
They are great because they have a small battery backup built in. So they will stay on when the power goes off. Mine last 5-6 hours and gradually get dimmer after the first 2-3 hours of constant use. You can turn them on and off to make them last longer... So in severe weather it's nice to know some lighting will just stay on when the power goes off. A friend's power was off for days and they had this in their bathroom and it lasted the whole outage as they only used it when needed.
This is my one and only area of prepping expertise. I've lived through hurricanes, floods, and winter storms. A virus outbreak would look very similar to them in terms of what your day to day looks like, provided you aren't sick. After all is said and done, boredom is generally the worst part of any of those.
Full Power
If you have full power, you do not have a boredom problem. You may get a little stir-crazy, but that's it.
Television: I shouldn't have to explain. If you have access to cable, streaming services, etc., you have a lifetime of entertainment. I highly recommend something like Roku if you don't have one, since it's fast and easier to use than a smart tv.
Video Games: Whether it be the latest PS4 game or an old school Nintendo, this is another lifetime of entertainment. If you're a fan of old school games, they're often pretty cheap to find on Amazon/Ebay. You can also get emulators that play these games, like a RetroDuo.
Cooking/Baking: Getting away from the TV a bit, here's another big time-sink. Provided you're not depleting your foods for no reason, you can spend quite a bit of time on this one. From finding the perfect recipe to actually baking/decorating everything, this is a fun and productive way to waste some time. Same goes for grilling/smoking meats. And this one has the added bonus of feeding you.
Cleaning: Your house should be spotless if you're in any type of situation like this. If you lose power suddenly, you don't want to be tripping over things in the dark. And you don't have to kill yourself cleaning every day if you actually keep it clean. Some light vacuuming makes a world of difference, especially when you're miserable and stuck at home.
Access to SOME Power
If you're like me, you have a solar charger for electronics coupled with a battery pack. With that, you should be able to stay at least sort of powered indefinitely. This setup increases your entertainment tremendously if you lose power.
Kindle: Charge it once and the battery lasts forever. I have a ton of books I've been meaning to read and books I had to put down because life got in the way. They're all there, just waiting for the power to go out. Additionally, a lot of older classics are free to download. And...err...I hear you can find books for free if you are willing to compromise your morals a bit. Also if you have a library card and want to keep those morals intact. I prefer the original Kindle or the Paperwhite, since I want it solely for books.
Tablet: Another prep I still need to make, but one I've researched a ton. Basically, you want some way of streaming movies, shows, and music. An old tablet+connected hard drive can potentially keep you entertained indefinitely, provided you can keep re-charging. And again, I hear there are places you can go to...find movies.
Phone: Of course, you should only use your phone if you can reliably keep it charged (and have a backup burner for 911 calls!). If you can do that, and you are still able to get 3G/4G, you should be more than entertained. And you can always download podcasts, movies, music, etc. to your phone in advance in case your cellular access is limited.
No Power
If you're woefully unprepared or all of your power is completely gone, you still have a few options:
Playing Cards: I see these recommended all the time, and I'm sure everyone knows a few card games. But how many? 3 or 4? How many games can you almost remember, but not quite? That was an issue I realized I faced, so I bought a book of card game rules, like this one.
Board Games: For those who didn't know, there was a board game revolution of sorts that began in 1995 with Settlers of Catan. Since then, there have been some REALLY incredible games that have come out. I love board games so much, I go to monthly meet-ups with fellow enthusiasts to play new and different games. Once you play a gateway game like Ticket to Ride, you'll never look back. I now have a good 30 board games, and am always looking for more. A typical board game can last for over an hour including setup, so they're a great way to kill time and have fun if there's nothing else to do. Check out some of the recommendations over at the board games subreddit
Physical Books: Unfortunately, I don't have much of a physical library. But anyone who reads before bed knows how easy it is to get sucked into a good story and suddenly it's 3:00am. I like to have several books I love, some books of short stories, and stuff I'm kind of 50/50 on. I figure, if I try something out when there's no power and it can't hold my attention, then it really isn't a good book for me.
Arts/Crafts: I'm not much of an arts and crafts person normally, but give me 3 days without power and maybe I'll change my tune. I'm sure someone with kids and chime in, but think of your typical elementary school art classroom and you have a plethora of options in the way of arts and crafts.
There will be some conversion losses, but with solar it might be less of a concern.
Something like this might work; https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8
Your much better off buying a power bank instead and a solar panel like this https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=anker+solar&qid=1562801110&s=gateway&sr=8-3
Thank you for your response, and further details.
It sounds like your BOL is a great start. There will be people sleeping outside every night, so any roof over your head is going to be pretty great. Insulating the shed, and adding some solar power sound like great upgrades. Also consider rainwater catchment, since you mentioned high annual rainfall.
I love solar, but be sure and consider what you really need to run. If you're setting up a house for non-SHTF, you probably need more power than you think. If you're setting up a BOL for SHTF, you probably need less than you think. Solar has a high initial cost, and low maintainability, which means I don't want to bet my life on it. If I don't want to bet my life on it, then how much do I want to rely on it in general? However, especially with a young child, I imagine time is valuable and modern conveniences make a big difference, so I'm certainly not trying to discourage you from using solar.
I have tried to get as many of my electronics as possible with USB charging capability. Walkie talkies, emergency radios, battery chargers. If you can do that, then a small, folding solar panel with USB ports works wonders. I use a portable USB battery to charge things, and then put the battery out with the solar panel in the sun. It is a whole lot cheaper to buy a couple backup folding solar panels and USB batteries. See the list of links at the end for some of the items I use.
Sanitation is a big deal, as you already mentioned. I'm sure you know that lack of sanitary conditions usually kills more people in the weeks following a natural disasters than the event itself. It sounds like you already have some plans in the works. Don't forget the old two bucket method. A couple 5-gal buckets (with lids!) and some cat litter will get you by in a pinch, or during the night. They also sell 5-gal bucket toilet seats, see the link below. Don't forget to stock up on lots of toilet paper!
Regarding joining a group, don't discount your ability to contribute. Your medical background is huge, and anyone with a brain would see the value in that. But even without that, there is going to be a ton of stuff to do once you take away all the modern conveniences, and it's going to take bodies to get it all done. A child is the next generation, and anyone with a brain should see that as worth while defending. It's more about finding a decent group of people with the right mindset and priorities.
Someone mentioned homesteading concepts. That's another lifestyle thing, but it goes hand in hand with prepping.
Also, consider supplies for bartering. Vegetable seed variety packs, medical kits, Bic lighters, toilet paper, cigarettes, alcohol, etc.
Keep up the great work!
Links:
Solar USB Charger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/
5Ah Portable USB Battery (USB and wall outlet recharging) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K702S66/
13Ah Portable USB Battery (USB recharge only) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Z9QVE4Q/
USB Battery Charger (AA / AAA) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072JWH8SC/
Walkie Talkies with USB Charging https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D6OAH6I/
5-Gal Bucket Toilet Seat w/ Lid https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000B13MT/
1-Gal Gravity Water Filter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XZVBSMX/
I own one of these..
​
It works great. I can use it for my phone,battery backup and rechargeable flashlight.
Also, if you want that best of both worlds situation, Anker makes inexpensive products, has a great reputation, and a smooth warranty/customer service process.
Not OP, but I have this one, though it seems to be out of stock at the moment. They also have a smaller 15W 2 panel one. It's kind of big and funky looking IMO to carry open, and it doesn't have an integrated battery (which I like, since I can replace the battery when it goes bad), but it does charge well when it's sunny.
That said, if you ask/look on most camping forums, the general consensus it to just use a power bank if you're going to be off grid for roughly a week or less, especially if you're not going to be in constant sunlight. While solar tech's been improving, it does still take a while to charge stuff.
around 60 bucks for 30W charger https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8/
https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8/
still cheaper than the turbine
There are a number of very similar models on Amazon (some from well known companies and others from one-off brands) - so similar, they may be made in the same factories. Similar shipping boxes, same cloth loops and cheap carabiners, same panel and port layout. Similar specs and efficiency ratings as well, so any difference in quality may just be in the soldering. IMO, the key to all these current models is the built-in USB port rather than relying on a two-prong adaptor like models from ~2009, which saves weight if you only have USB devices.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8?psc=1
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B017GQ7OEA?psc=1
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B06XKRVTXD?psc=1
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00OQ0CAW6?psc=1
I have this particular version, and it worked well for a backcountry trip last year; keeping my phone and my wife's phone charged, as well as charging my camera batteries. One of the panels seemed to come disconnected during the trip, reducing output, but the company did a replacement when we returned.
So price/Wattage needed/weight would decide which one would be right for you.
Here's a good technical review of the xdragon 20W model which pushed me to buy that version:
I'm talking the portable solar phone charger ones like this https://www.amazon.ca/Anker-PowerPort-Dual-Port-Charger-iPhone/dp/B012YUJJM8
Why?
If you want to use the sun to charge your phone, then buy a solar USB charger and use a USB cable to charge your phone.
Can you recommend a good charger?
I was looking at the 21W from Anker.
Combine this with a portable battery pack and you'll never be without phone power again.
You know, for next time.
Thinking the same thing today and I believe this is what I've decided on. For the Panel:https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone-Galaxy/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1494624116&sr=8-3&keywords=solar+charger Can charge phone and battery alike Then for the powerbank I'm going with https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-20100-Capacity-Technology/dp/B00X5RV14Y/ref=pd_sim_107_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00X5RV14Y&pd_rd_r=J3GC45P0PB9VWHGMA2GM&pd_rd_w=GHokO&pd_rd_wg=XUhWX&psc=1&refRID=J3GC45P0PB9VWHGMA2GM
So just to add to my question and explain some of my assumptions (which may be incorrect):
I don't know that much about the conversions between voltages work. Any info I can get in that regard is going to help me out a lot.
My understanding is that going from 5V to 7.6V is fairly inefficient (I will lose some power) but that going from 12V to 7.6V is much less inefficient ^sorry ^for ^the ^double ^negative (I will lose much less power).
If these are correct assumptions, I'm better off getting something that can output 7.6+V e.g. this.
Based on research so far, the panel I think I want is here but it outputs at 5V. I don't know if that matters. Is that going to reduce my efficiency?
Because the panel outputs at 5V am I best off also getting a powerbank that outputs at 5V and just doing the conversion at the charger?
It seems like I have decent options. At this point just trying to figure out which one of them wastes the smallest amount of power.
i've been looking into this solution as well...
one solution that could work, but may not be practical either is this combo:
plus
i'm still looking into this to see if it will even be helpful (the omnicharge charges one full battery with 30% remaining)
Thanks! I've looked into both those options a bit. However, I don't know that much about the conversions between voltages work. Any info I can get in that regard is going to help me out a lot.
My understanding is that going from 5V to 7.6V is fairly inefficient (I will lose some power) but that going from 12V to 7.6V is much less inefficient ^sorry ^for ^the ^double ^negative (I will lose much less power).
If these are correct assumptions, I'm better off getting something that can output 7.6+V e.g. this.
Based on research so far, the panel I think I want is here but it outputs at 5V. I don't know if that matters. Is that going to reduce my efficiency?
Because the panel outputs at 5V am I best off also getting a powerbank that outputs at 5V and just doing the conversion at the charger?
It seems like I have decent options. At this point just trying to figure out which one of them wastes the smallest amount of power.
Anker's top of the line one costs $60
Edit: for the downvoter - find a better charger at than this one: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8
This set was under 100 US with free shipping. Works great, has TONS of reviews and like ALL other products has seen a few duds. We use ours everyday to charge Nintendo DS and tablet/phones. Nice set!
............................................................
Phoenix says its water proof but I highly doubt that as there is no seal on the door to access ports. The ports are not water proof...
Even if it is...not worth more than 200 US.
ive had good charge rate with anker 21W 2x usb port solar charger. the panels arent rigid. so, it feels reliable. i seem to get better efficiency charging to a lithium battery then using the battery to charge my devices. https://www.amazon.com/Anker-2-Port-Universal-PowerPort-Charger/dp/B012YUJJM8
took it on a 7day hiking trip and my phone & camera never died. i wouldnt attach it to my bike though. This is what i use on my speed triple. 2.1A: https://www.3brpowersports.com/products.php
I use this while backpacking, paired with a battery to store excess energy: https://www.amazon.com/Anker-2-Port-Universal-PowerPort-Charger/dp/B012YUJJM8
I use:
and
This works for me because all my junk is AA, AAA, or USB. First I make sure all my batteries are charged via the panel, the I replace the batteries that need replacing, and finally I use the 4 charged AA batteries to charge my phone.
Bonus: the Imedion batteries hold a charge for about 2 years.
Something like this
A non shit solar one will do much better, but won't be quite as cheap.
Something like this would do a great job on a clear day: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012YUJJM8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
If I don't care (much) about weight, I'll take the Anker 21-Watt PowerPort which has enough surface area to generate useful power in less than perfect conditions. In full sun, that'll max out a USB port's ability to accept current.
If I were going very light, I'd look at a Sunkingdom 5-10-Watt mini panel, with the understanding it needs full sun and will take a long time to recharge anything. Might do for a Kindle with wireless off though.
I agree with your comment. In order to get an acceptable amount of energy out of a 12V solar panel you'll need a solar charge controller and therefore a lead-acid battery too. It doesn't work to just hook up the step-down converter to the panel (I tried it). If you do that you waste a lot of energy. And here is why: At these photos http://imgur.com/a/oEj2y you can see the open circuit voltage. It's 19.64V (it's actually 22V but when I took the pic, it was cloudy. Also look at the switch on the left). The panel is attached to a step down converter. If I now connect a load to it the solar panel voltage is not dropping. That's pretty bad because the power coming into the battery is 1.3 watts. That's ridiculous! Remember it's a 10 watt solar panel and an income of 7-8 watts would've been no problem. To understand this result we have to look at the IV-curve of a solar panel (http://www.re-innovation.co.uk/web12/images/stories/reimages/projects/PVIVtracer/IVcurve.gif). The point marked on the curve is the mpp (maximum power point). If the voltage is 21V, like in our example, the current is very low. This shows that step down regulators are a pretty bad choice for 12V solar panels. It would be much easier to just use a solar charge controller and a lead-acid battery or buying a solar panel usb charger like this one (http://www.amazon.com/Anker-2-Port-Charger-PowerPort-iPhone/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1464612681&sr=8-1&keywords=solar+panel+usb). These are pretty expensive though.
I opted for this solar panel that I clipped to my pack Anker 21W 2-Port USB Solar Charger PowerPort Solar https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_pQqpxb8KC7RYY
I have never been to Patagonia, but here in Austria I regularly have the challenge that mountain huts have only one or very few outlets (if the have electricity), so this could be an issue. Information is key here, so I would try to ask a tourist info or similar possible source of information for such an inquiry. I agree, 26800 mAh is the biggest I can find. Here's an alternative, from the company where I bought my external battery pack. Probably quite similar. Are you happy with that solar charger? I've heard good things about suntactics. what you could also consider is getting a solar charger with a higher voltage (although I have to say that I don't have any experience with it. i am just considering myself to get one like this)
also: maybe a lighter option could be something like that?
One thing that you could also consider is that your phone may last significantly longer if you put it in airplane mode.
I bought an Anker 14W Solar Charger earlier this year for emergency backup to charge my external battery (updated version here). It works great. But I end up just using my KMASHI 15000 mAh external battery and leave my solar panels at home when camping/hiking. I get about 5 full battery charges on my Nexus 5 with the 15000mAh battery. More than enough for my uses.
Buy one worth using:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012YUJJM8
http://www.amazon.com/X-DRAGON-Efficency-Technology-Smartphones-Foldable/dp/B00NGKPX4Y
It's got USB ports for charging typical mobile devices.
Get this charger, which has both USB in (for charging batteries) and USB out (for using the device as a power-pack)... http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00WFXWUOE
It charges NiCad, NiMH, and Li-Ion cells, and comes with an 18650 which is kind of universal and can be used to power other devices.
See also:
/r/18650masterrace/
Got any of these yet?
Folding solar: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/
Bigger folding solar (laptops, car batteries): http://www.amazon.com/ALLPOWERS-Charger-Technology-Portable-Battery/dp/B00G6C5NR6/
Compact folding bolt cutters: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00582WQA2/
FuBarForcible Entry Tool (check other sites for a better description - it's an amazing first-responder tool): http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003LS4HZC/
Yaesu radios, in different price brackets:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004BFAANC/
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MAKK7W/
Pocket chain-saw: http://www.amazon.com/Chainmate-CM-24SSP-24-Inch-Survival-Pocket/dp/B0026OOS60/
USB powered charger, NiCad, NiMH, Li-Ion, multiple cell sizes that also acts as a USB power source(!): http://www.amazon.com/ThruNite-Charger-1x3400mAh-Multifunction-Portable/dp/B00WFXWUOE/
Setting all that aside, you could ask her for a gift certificate to "Archery Tag," "Axe Throwing," or an escape room with friends. Then you aren't getting more "stuff" you may not need or want but you get to have a great time. :)
These flexible, folding PV powerport devices don't generate anywhere near enough power OR voltage to make USB-C meaningful. I have the 21W Anker version, and, while nice to have, takes FOREVER to generate enough power to add charge to even a cell phone.
You could charge a good sized power bank every day and use that to run a USB battery charger or charge your computer, phone, whatever.
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