It’s one thing to appreciate nature when you hike, but it’s another glorious thing to be able to do it and help maintain the environment at the same time.
Here’s the thing: when you hike, you also need to identify what you should bring. And when you do this frequently, isn’t it wise to invest in items that are for long-term use? Well, you’re in for some good news today as we’ll share with you solar-powered gadgets that you can use when you go hiking.
These items will help you survive the trip without spending too much energy on batteries and other power sources. Who needs a charging cable when you can use solar energy to recharge your gadgets? Talk about sustainability!
Prepare to be surprised. Here are seven solar-powered gadgets for your next hiking trip that are worth the investment.
1. Solar flashlight
Camping in the woods is such a thrilling adventure. Many hikers have done staying overnight in campsites, and we all know how essential flashlights are during these activities.
It comes in handy when you need to check for intruders within the area like animals wandering around. But while that may have lesser chances of happening, you will still need your flashlight to find your way to the bathroom or find supplies.
However, the beauty of solar flashlights is the fact that you don’t need to bring batteries. Just charge it during your day hike, and you’ll be able to use it for long hours at night.
2. Solar lantern
Like flashlights, lanterns are a necessity when you go hiking overnight. While a flashlight is enough to light the way, a more oversized lantern can help you go about your activities at night with better lighting.
Now, while battery-powered and gas-powered lanterns are a sensible choice because of their prices, you also have to consider that they will continuously need a change in batteries or gas refill throughout the night. It’s not an ideal situation, especially if you’re trying to pack light.
However, when you go with solar lanterns, you’ll never have to bring a fresh set of batteries or a container filled with gas. It would be best if you recharged it in the morning or until the sun is up. That will ensure you have enough energy for your lantern for the rest of the night.
3. Solar backpack
One of the most functional innovations right now is the solar backpack that allows you to charge your gadgets like phones, GPS trackers, and speakers (if you decide to bring one).
You don’t need to bring a couple of battery packs to make sure you stay connected to your phones throughout the trip. Solar backpacks are wearable even while you’re hiking, and for as long as the sun is out, it automatically absorbs solar power.
Just make sure to choose a solar backpack that is lightweight to avoid straining your back and shoulders.
4. Solar fan
The natural breeze from the trees is lovely; that’s a given. But it’s not always 100% reliable, especially when you’re already inside your tent. Ventilation can sometimes be a bit of concern, so bringing a fan with you is most often the best choice.
However, some fans are dependent on specific energy sources. If you’re not keen on bringing plenty of stuff with you to survive the heat during the trip, then your best option could be a solar fan.
A solar fan may be dependent on one energy source, but at least it’s available all day long. You can charge your solar fan out in the sun and use it when you go inside your tent to take a nap or just direct chill.
5. Solar water purifier
When you’re at a camping site, water sources may be scarce. So for experienced hikers, bringing a water purifier is a lifesaving decision all the time.
But since we’re all about exhausting solar power to recharge our gadgets, we might as well invest in a solar water purifier that can help virtually remove harmful chemicals in the water.
The process is simple—fill the solar cleaner with water and then leave it where the sun can reach it. It may take hours to complete its job thoroughly, but at least you’ll have potable water when you need it.
6. Solar generator
Who needs a fancy hotel room after your hike when you can enjoy complete services inside your tent during camping? A solar generator gives you the freedom to use electric-powered items like lights and wi-fi.
You can even charge your gadgets like phones and cameras when you have a solar generator with you. It doesn’t even need liters of gas to function. You can trust the sun to do its job.
While this may come with an expensive price tag, it’s still a good investment, especially if hiking is your thing.
7. Solar-compatible cooler
To hydrate is essential, but to drink cold water after a long day’s hike is one of the most fulfilling things a hiker can get.
You don’t have to settle with lukewarm water when you have a solar-compatible cooler with you when you hike. It can guarantee a cold bunch of beverages even after a few hours of walking around. It can even keep perishable food items at an optimal temperature to ensure it’s still safe to eat after a few hours.
In Summary
Hiking is one of those activities where you can indeed be close to nature. Whether you do it on flat land or field, or a dense forest with steep climbs, nothing compares to the joy of being able to reconnect with the earth.
Some trails may even require trekking poles, but you know, that’s the fun part. You can be conquering a challenging path, but then you can also do a calming hike that isn’t traumatizing to the muscles.
Whatever you decide to do, the choice is always yours at the end of the day, and that includes choosing to go the sustainable path by investing in solar-powered gadgets that will last a long time.
