How to Safely Charge Electronics While Backpacking in Remote Areas
Wiki Article
When you're deep in the woods or hiking far from the nearest town, keeping your phone, camera, or GPS charged can be tricky. Whether you're out for a few days or on a longer adventure, staying connected and having access to helpful tools depends on power. But with a little planning, you can safely charge your electronics without bringing a heavy load of extra camping gear.
The first thing to think about is how many devices you’ll bring and how often they’ll need charging. A phone used mostly for maps or photos might last two or three days, while a GPS device or headlamp with a rechargeable battery could need more frequent charging. Keeping devices off when you’re not using them or putting them in airplane mode saves a lot of battery over time.
One of the simplest charging options is a power bank. These are compact, lightweight, and store energy from a wall outlet before your trip. Choose one with enough capacity, often measured in mAh (milliamp hours), to charge your devices a few times. Keep it in a dry place, and bring a few zip-top bags in case you run into rain.
For longer trips, a small solar charger can be a good backup. They work best in bright sunlight and can help top off your power bank or charge devices directly. Just be sure to check if your route will get enough sun — in deep forest areas or during cloudy stretches, solar panels will charge more slowly.
It’s also smart to bring the right charging cables and keep them in a waterproof pouch. Some hikers like to have an all-in-one cord with different connectors for different electronics so they don’t have to carry a tangle of cords.
Safety-wise, avoid charging electronics overnight inside your sleeping bag or tent in case of overheating. Keep everything dry, and don’t leave devices charging in direct sunlight for too long, especially if it’s hot. Also, protect your devices from hard knocks and drops by keeping them inside soft-sided pouches or wrapped in clothes.
With the right setup and a bit of care, it’s totally possible to keep your electronics powered up while exploring remote places. That way, you can enjoy your trip, stay safe, and maybe snap a few photos to remember it all.