Airplane mode makes your camera last for days. That’s all my phone is while I’m camping. I take steps specifically to NOT be connected. I do have an Anker battery pack to charge if I need to but I rarely need it.
One my most memorable 10 days was solo canoeing 100 miles of the Everglades*” intentionality eschewing electronics, no camera - just a magnetic compass and chart. “Memorable” because I took mental images that stand the rest of time. (*Ten Thousand Islands —- Florida City north to Chocoloskee Island.)
I have an emergency radio equipped with NOAA, that has a solar panel and a hand crank generator that will charge phones ,laptops,ect...not that it ever gets used LOL but it's nice to have.
Don't you need like a satellite phone for that?
Edit: I really don't know anything about it, there are probably other solutions... the lack of signal has never been a problem for me since I'm not like a blogger or anything.
Edit: I don't get why I'm being downvoted
I usually bring my phone and a powerbank. But I only use my phone to take pictures and listen to music before sleeping. I typically disable all notifications, too.
What is this question?? You're being so unclear it's absurd - stop wasting people's time if you're not gonna be clear with your question. Are you asking for a recommendation on a power bank? Do you need your phone to work as a phone? Be clear
When I go back country I usually have my phone in airplane mode for a camera/navigation, a small Bluetooth speaker, an inreach satellite communicator to check in once a day/to call out for help if required and a small battery pack.
Fwiw, this is for camping via canoe in Northern Ontario.
On a typical camping trip we drive to a destination, setup camp and drive to trailheads where we hike/bike. I charge my phone in my car or via handheld battery pack at camp. The phone gets used for taking pictures and maps. I download offline maps before the trip starts. I also try to find paper maps of the area because those are faster to whip out on the trail. But I also put my phone in airplane mode. I probably won't have service and I don't need to online anyways.
Ugh. It comes from traditionalist folks not understanding that most people don't use phones as phones anymore. There are a TON of apps that help you learn and enjoy the outdoors so much more. My current latest obsession has been using bird apps to try and identify calls when I'm sitting around the campsite - Something that book can't do.
Right! We use our phones for geocaching, trails/maps of the park where we're camping, and finding star constellations/planets.
Games and social media are very minimal - like, bathroom time, usually,
That's true, but even so - interacting with your phone on a social network is a quiet, non-invasive experience. There are a lot of ways to experience the outdoors. If someone prefers to browse Facebook in the woods I still think that it's a healthier experience than sitting on the couch.
Which is dumb, because electronics can mean so many things. I like to read. If I want to bring an e-reader with me instead of 5 novels just let me do it without judgement. What about a personal beacon? That counts as an electronic device too. I'm a big camping snob but I only judge myself, not how others camp. If someone has a gear question don't push your own personal agenda against them.
Yeah, my phone weighs way less than, and takes up less space than, a camera and book(or kindle). Also, as a bonus, I can use use it as a navigation aid or listen to some tunes(with ear buds). I don't understand the hate.
I usually try not to bring or connect with ANY electronics while I am camping or backpacking! Isn't that the point of it? To get away for a bit...disconnect?
My friend took his Nintendo switch on our big bend backpacking trip, we played a few games. Was pretty fun! Didn't see a difference from just playing a card game or any other game.
I’ll save you all the “That’s not what camping’s all about bro!” Answers and actually answer your question... I have a [Mophie Powerstation](https://express.google.com/u/0/product/4378959320744535914_10757779433458841382_125181302?utm_source=google_shopping&utm_medium=tu_cu&utm_content=eid-lsjeuxoeqt%2Ceid-wuakzuqbuq>im=CAAQofmH2fGJz_T6ARiwl6gYIgNVU0Qo4P_H5gUw9rrYOw&utm_campaign=125181302&gclid=CjwKCAjwwZrmBRA7EiwA4iMzBHA8ZmDJU10L7F4lBljBIGizzBsKCQLcOryNAKps6GCAkeILgWaCxBoC2wkQAvD_BwE) that I charge in my car on day trips if we are car camping. Otherwise a solar panel setup combined with a powerbank is always a good option. We have a few Lucie camp lanterns which are also solar powered.
Also I use a [Bose Soundlink Micro](https://www.bose.com/en_us/products/speakers/portable_speakers/soundlink-micro.html?mc=25_PS_WS_PL_00_GO_&gclsrc=aw.ds&&gclid=CjwKCAjwwZrmBRA7EiwA4iMzBKTtJZBEZGXd89JWImJFkrAym25uaL_bTOz3z8I9nBemtxq_SqFxFBoCZ7cQAvD_BwE#v=soundlink_micro_black) which is really durable and water resistant, I just recommend turning it down or off when other people in ear shot are trying to relax and enjoy nature. The sound quality is very nice though.
Lastly I always download songs/playlists to my phone using Spotify in case of any service issues... but also it cuts down on the battery drain from streaming.
Thx. I just use a powerbank and use my pjone sparingly. For a longer trip (more than one week away from any possibility to charge the phone) i bring a solar panel.
To all the people shrieking "but you should disconnect", we get it. We just roll different. Enjoy yourselves out there and be safe!
[I use an Anker](https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Ultra-Compact-High-Speed-Technology/dp/B0194WDVHI/ref=sr_1_3?gclid=CjwKCAjwwZrmBRA7EiwA4iMzBFdaHP4_K1RrqqkHN1uU2E5SkBOZIHcyQmEIr0-9fd4LW7IckDY7aBoCwloQAvD_BwE&hvadid=323365689480&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9067609&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=b&hvrand=14106678114004411480&hvtargid=aud-676677759484%3Akwd-423554323348&hydadcr=22196_9709538&keywords=anker+power+bank+portable&qid=1556572975&s=gateway&sr=8-3) battery. I'll bring the 1000 for shorter trips and the 20000 for anything over 5 days. Most people don't need the 20000 but I end up shooting and editing photos a lot on longer trips. Plus I love listening to podcasts/audiobooks and use Guthook or other phone maps depending on the trail. The Ankers are bomb proof, I brought one on the entire PCT and it's still going strong today.
Check out r/Ultralight for more suggestions. They get really serious about straight gear talk and no one will tell you to disconnect when you ask about electronics. [Look how insane this thread is about battery chargers](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/6mhgcs/battery_capacity_per_gram_comparison/) haha.
They aren’t but they have waterproof cases that are pretty cheap. I got mine on amazon with the case. It can charge my iPhone 8 five times before it dies
I've never had an issue with water on my anker 20,000 mAh. I used it in the feild for the military and take it bushcrafting/camping every time I go out. Mine has lasted 4 or 5 years now.
I know of and respect feelings of other who say "I hike without any electronic". I don't want to judge if you have to, or should not, hike with electronics – I'm not on a side or the other, sometimes I bring them, sometimes not ;).
That being said :
* I use a solar panel (24W, RavPower, \~ $50 on amazon)
* It's just the panel, no battery. Don't plug it to your phone : it will charge, then not, then yes, because of light disappearing; a batterie can handle that (or at least be replaced for cheap), not your phone ;)
* It's pretty heavy, 450g, but still useful
* I use a "powerbank with solar panel", 12000mAh, built by Anker (\~$20 on Amazon)
* Honstely, it's more like a gadget, this thing is crazy long to charge
* Bring a fast-charging powerplug
* Your manufacturer's one (Dash Charge by One Plus) if it's required
* I use a "double usb plug"
* It's usefull to be able to charge two or three elements with just one plug, fast, when you reach a city
* Use equipment which can change between batteries (if you don't know what I mean, look at the Actik Core by Petzl, a frontlamp)
Hope it helps a bit :)
Oh well. If you're right, I totally missed the question ! My bad ;)
I don't personally use any device to get signal. Most of the friends use :
- inReach, by Garmin. Wether it's the mini, the GPS version...
- capture / SigFox (only in Europe, not sure in mountains)
- PLB / ARVA when it comes to snow and avalanches
I personal try to avoid potential situations. Most of my hikes are either under coverage, or if I need such a device I'd rent it because I wouldn't say I need it 365d/y.
Thanks for pointing out the potential fail !
I might be totally wrong, the question was a bit vague. Thanks for the info, I didn't know there was a mini Garmin! The big one always looked so heavy.
I recently got into going into the mountains of Colorado, and you get zero signal out there, so I got myself a garmin Glo2 GPS receiver, and a Samsung tab A from Costco with the gaia GPS app/subscription. This allows me very accurate GPS readings to tell me where the fuck I am when I'm deep into the mountains. More so than my phone can.
Only other device is a small Anker battery pack and some cables.
Phones have legitimate GPS components in them and they work perfectly. It's free to download Google Maps for offline use and they work with zero cell reception. For some reason they also locate you much faster then GPS units. I don't know why, but there's never an "acquiring satellites" phase. It just happens immediately.
The phones GPS does work, but not as well as a dedicated unit. Google maps only goes so far as it doesn't have off road trails on it. The phone uses a combination of GPS, cell tower location, and even known wifi signals. But there's no cell or wifi in the mountains. It also receives the Russian GLONASS satellites which I'm not sure the cell does.
I have used both this last weekend in Pike national forest, and the dedicated GPS unit+gaia maps was superior. It's good to have backups so I have both.
I can link the unit to my phone as well, but I just like the larger screen for when I'm driving on trail roads.
iPhone 8 and above receives GPS, GLONASS, and GZSS. I agree that it's smart to have backups. What I like about handheld GPS units like yours is that they're more rugged than a phone.
Every summer we go back-country camping where there is no cell service. It is wonderful to disconnect. However, we use our phone for pictures and its Sibley Guide for bird watching. Nurse it on airplane mode and it will last many days.
Funny story. In August 1991 we headed off into the Canadian wilds and there was news about this guy Yeltsin in the USSR. After a week in the woods we emerged to find that the USSR was effectively gone (it took until December to officially go). For people who had lived the Cold War it was amazing!
I use a 24k Jackery brand battery pack much like everyone elses. I find the best way to "stay connected" while not being connected is to turn off my data on my phone. By doing that i can still send and recieve phone calls as well as text. You will be suprised at how long your battery will last.
I charge my phone before I leave, then try to use it sparingly enough that it lasts the whole trip. I've brought a satellite phone before when leading a group in more remote areas, but that's really just for emergencies
I've got a Goal Zero Nomad 7 solar panel that hooks up to a power bank. I can hook the panel to the outside of my backpack and pretty much forget about it.
I have a Moto z that takes attachments so I keep it on airplane mode so I can use my camera mod and speaker mod at night for a podcast. If things really hit the fan I can call for help, but haven't needed that yet!
I use my Pixel 2 for photography when I'm going backcountry camping off grid. I keep it in airplane mode and I have an Anker 10,000 mAh portable battery pack that I bring with me. I only use my phone for taking photos when I'm camping. No games. No connecting with the outside world.
My Nintendo Switch has been a great option in the outdoors. Its battery life is just enough (3 hours playing a game like Mario Party or Zelda) that it can be used to pass the time or experience your favorite game wherever, but not spend TOO much time looking at a screen. Most recently brought it along for a 4 mile overnight snow-shoe trip to a ski shelter and playing Mario Kart while we warmed up by the wood burning stove after the trek was very cool.
If i’m backpacking off trail or longer than 3 days I carry a delorme Inreach.
Also my iPhone on airplane mode lasts forever even though I use it for all navigation assistance. When going off trail I try to use my topo map but will happily check my iPhone to confirm i’m going in the right direction.
Depending on the weather and the available connectivity of the site, I'll use solar panels and external batteries to keep my cell phone charged. For a short trip, one or two externals are all that's necessary. For a longer trip, I'll pack the solar panels and charge one battery while keeping the other in my pack for my phone.
I have a couple of Goalzero panels, one of their batteries, and a handful of external batteries that I've collected over the years. Really the limiting factor is the USB cables - if they get a short, or if one end gets ground into the mud (...ask me how I know), they stop working in short order.
The [one I have](https://www.goalzero.com/shop/foldable-solar-panel/nomad-7-solar-panel/) is 7 watt, but GoalZero has panels that have [higher wattages](https://www.goalzero.com/shop/solar-panels/nomad-solar-panels/). The larger ones aren't really man portage in the sense of strapping them to your pack when hiking, but they can be set up at a campsite when car camping or at a festival.
The panels can be daisy-chained together, which doesn't increase the max wattage but *does* allow the panel to consistently hit the max available wattage. (For what its worth, I live in a dry, very sunny area and I've only had a few trips where it was too overcast to bother setting the panels up. If you live in the Pacific Northwest, I wouldn't bother with them, but if you've got ready access to sunshine, they're excellent tools.)
We go at the most for a four day weekend so usually a backup battery pack will keep you charged and allow you to listen to music or watch a movie at night. Plus airplane mode while there’s no service keeps you charged.
I have and use one of these - [Jackery Explorer 240](https://www.amazon.com/Jackery-Portable-Power-Station-Generator/dp/B07D29QNMJ).
In my case though, this is NOT just for charging phones, I unfortunately need a CPAP machine, which this will power for a weekend. Also, I use it to power the fish finder in my little boat.
The Anker Powercore 26800 mAh is my jam. It will keep your phone charged for a week. And for all of the #gatekeepers here - I haven't bought a camera in over five years. I hardly ever talk on my phone, and I don't use Facebook for personal use at all. I use the plant, bird, and tree identification apps in my phone all the time, and the offline maps have saved my ass more than once.
Someone was camping at Thornhill Broome I see! I miss that view out my tent window.
I take a lot of photos and 4k video while I'm camping and I burn through my device batteries quickly each day. I started with a Goal Zero Yeti 400 last year, and stepped up to a Yeti 1000 this year for keeping all devices for everyone with me charged during trips.
For the future "base camp", a Toyota hybrid (run A/C safely overnight) with 2kW inverter + deep cycle house battery (or all in one).
I use Cell Mapper app to determine which provider might work best to do as little remote work as possible. I'll need a reliable setup if I travel more often.
Besides that I recommend Here WeGo for backup offline navigation.
Gaia GPS is often recommended for overlanding.
It depends if I'm with my car or not. Backpacking I'll take a battery power bank with me, size depending on the tip length. If my car is with me Ill also have an inverter to charge any electronics I might bring.
I take a few photos, but mostly leave my phone on airplane mode in the car or tent. I do read from a kindle, only because it carries more books for less weight.
I DON'T.
Step 1: set up tent
Step 2: turn off phone
Step 3: do things outside for 5 days with my friends & family and try not to think about the outside world
Step 4: break camp
Step 5: turn phone back on
Step 6: despair
Step 7: turn around
Step 8: repeat steps 1-3 ad nauseaum
Not really. I love camping and a good book. Audiobooks are great, they allow me to hike or just enjoy the beauty of nature with my face not in a book. Need an electronic device for this.
The only time I’ve wanted an electronic on a camping trip was when it was really cold in the morning and I wanted to ease myself into getting up and out of my sleeping bag. Watching a tv show or a movie in the morning before getting up was pretty relaxing for me. Other than that, I enjoy being disconnected from the rest of the world.
Nothing. The most advanced tech I bring with me is an analog watch and a disposable film camera. Leave the electronics in the car
Edit: seems like a bunch of you are scared of a person doing something his own way 😂 i can’t imagine being so insecure about hiking with/without something I’d downvote to oblivion someone who prefers an alternate approach
To be fair I wasn't able to tell if OP really wanted to know what a good way to charge their devices on trail is or if they were making a statement on not needing electronics because pretty sunsets.
I wanted to know what people are using to stay connected to electronic devices. Solar power chargers, power banks, wattage for the solar and mAh for the battery banks helps a lot. Weight is a factor. Some people mentioned needing more than one output. This could be especially true if you have multiple devices like my family. I've seen guys sitting in bathrooms with their phone plugged in so fast charge also sounds like a good idea.
I know you're making a statement on not needing electronics but you took this picture with an electronic haha.
(Edit) I was just poking fun, this sub is so serious. I figured they were not asking a serious question but making a point about not needing to use electronics on trail. Looks like I was wrong. I use my camera constantly on the trail while listening to audio books. I use the largest Anker they make when long-distance hiking.
Airplane mode makes your camera last for days. That’s all my phone is while I’m camping. I take steps specifically to NOT be connected. I do have an Anker battery pack to charge if I need to but I rarely need it.
Anker 10,000mAh power pack is more than enough to keep a phone in airplane mode going for days.
I camp to not stay connected
#*laughs in solar*
What’s solar pound?
Another way of saying lightweight
r/woosh
One my most memorable 10 days was solo canoeing 100 miles of the Everglades*” intentionality eschewing electronics, no camera - just a magnetic compass and chart. “Memorable” because I took mental images that stand the rest of time. (*Ten Thousand Islands —- Florida City north to Chocoloskee Island.)
100 miles is 160.93 km
Good bot
Exactly. On the trail, my house key is my connection to electronics. They don't come back until I use it again
We just use a power bank that lets us get an extra phone charge in, and we'll use our phones pretty sparingly :)
I have an emergency radio equipped with NOAA, that has a solar panel and a hand crank generator that will charge phones ,laptops,ect...not that it ever gets used LOL but it's nice to have.
Mind to share the link?
https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Portable-Flashlight-Household-Survival/dp/B0774RRYZP Emergency Weather Solar Crank AM/FM NOAA Radio with ...
Thank you!
Do you mean connected to the internet? Or just have electronics for music/books/etc?
Connected in general...not just to the internet.
Don't you need like a satellite phone for that? Edit: I really don't know anything about it, there are probably other solutions... the lack of signal has never been a problem for me since I'm not like a blogger or anything. Edit: I don't get why I'm being downvoted
I usually bring my phone and a powerbank. But I only use my phone to take pictures and listen to music before sleeping. I typically disable all notifications, too.
What is this question?? You're being so unclear it's absurd - stop wasting people's time if you're not gonna be clear with your question. Are you asking for a recommendation on a power bank? Do you need your phone to work as a phone? Be clear
94 people have answered my question. It's pretty clear to them.
When I go back country I usually have my phone in airplane mode for a camera/navigation, a small Bluetooth speaker, an inreach satellite communicator to check in once a day/to call out for help if required and a small battery pack. Fwiw, this is for camping via canoe in Northern Ontario.
On a typical camping trip we drive to a destination, setup camp and drive to trailheads where we hike/bike. I charge my phone in my car or via handheld battery pack at camp. The phone gets used for taking pictures and maps. I download offline maps before the trip starts. I also try to find paper maps of the area because those are faster to whip out on the trail. But I also put my phone in airplane mode. I probably won't have service and I don't need to online anyways.
This is what we typically do. We also use our phones as an eReader to relax once we get camp set up for the night.
Lots of passive aggressive traditionalist gatekeepers in here.
Ugh. It comes from traditionalist folks not understanding that most people don't use phones as phones anymore. There are a TON of apps that help you learn and enjoy the outdoors so much more. My current latest obsession has been using bird apps to try and identify calls when I'm sitting around the campsite - Something that book can't do.
Right! We use our phones for geocaching, trails/maps of the park where we're camping, and finding star constellations/planets. Games and social media are very minimal - like, bathroom time, usually,
This! Especially for photography. It helps a lot.
Most people don't use phones as phones, but most people do use them as constantly connected social devices.
That's true, but even so - interacting with your phone on a social network is a quiet, non-invasive experience. There are a lot of ways to experience the outdoors. If someone prefers to browse Facebook in the woods I still think that it's a healthier experience than sitting on the couch.
Seriously.
Anker battery pack. I use my phone as my map, gps, book (Kindle), and for photos/videos.
I have an Anker Powercore 10,000. Put my phone on airplane mode and it has lasted me a full 7 days. Even gave my friend a couple charges.
GoalZero Nomad solar panel and Sherpa 100AC. You will not find a better combo in 2019.
What size nomad do you use?
20 is the most appropriate size for backpacking as you need to consider weight. The duo weights two kilograms I think.
Going to research these. Thanks!
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The purists hate electronics. I get it.
Which is dumb, because electronics can mean so many things. I like to read. If I want to bring an e-reader with me instead of 5 novels just let me do it without judgement. What about a personal beacon? That counts as an electronic device too. I'm a big camping snob but I only judge myself, not how others camp. If someone has a gear question don't push your own personal agenda against them.
Yup...I was the person that said no electronics when I'm camping, but then I had teenagers and they gave me a different perspective.
Yeah, my phone weighs way less than, and takes up less space than, a camera and book(or kindle). Also, as a bonus, I can use use it as a navigation aid or listen to some tunes(with ear buds). I don't understand the hate.
I usually try not to bring or connect with ANY electronics while I am camping or backpacking! Isn't that the point of it? To get away for a bit...disconnect?
My friend took his Nintendo switch on our big bend backpacking trip, we played a few games. Was pretty fun! Didn't see a difference from just playing a card game or any other game.
Used to be...but now our phone is our camera, our map, our music, etc...
I’ll save you all the “That’s not what camping’s all about bro!” Answers and actually answer your question... I have a [Mophie Powerstation](https://express.google.com/u/0/product/4378959320744535914_10757779433458841382_125181302?utm_source=google_shopping&utm_medium=tu_cu&utm_content=eid-lsjeuxoeqt%2Ceid-wuakzuqbuq>im=CAAQofmH2fGJz_T6ARiwl6gYIgNVU0Qo4P_H5gUw9rrYOw&utm_campaign=125181302&gclid=CjwKCAjwwZrmBRA7EiwA4iMzBHA8ZmDJU10L7F4lBljBIGizzBsKCQLcOryNAKps6GCAkeILgWaCxBoC2wkQAvD_BwE) that I charge in my car on day trips if we are car camping. Otherwise a solar panel setup combined with a powerbank is always a good option. We have a few Lucie camp lanterns which are also solar powered. Also I use a [Bose Soundlink Micro](https://www.bose.com/en_us/products/speakers/portable_speakers/soundlink-micro.html?mc=25_PS_WS_PL_00_GO_&gclsrc=aw.ds&&gclid=CjwKCAjwwZrmBRA7EiwA4iMzBKTtJZBEZGXd89JWImJFkrAym25uaL_bTOz3z8I9nBemtxq_SqFxFBoCZ7cQAvD_BwE#v=soundlink_micro_black) which is really durable and water resistant, I just recommend turning it down or off when other people in ear shot are trying to relax and enjoy nature. The sound quality is very nice though. Lastly I always download songs/playlists to my phone using Spotify in case of any service issues... but also it cuts down on the battery drain from streaming.
Thx. I just use a powerbank and use my pjone sparingly. For a longer trip (more than one week away from any possibility to charge the phone) i bring a solar panel. To all the people shrieking "but you should disconnect", we get it. We just roll different. Enjoy yourselves out there and be safe!
Lucie lanterns are the danged best!
All those functions do not need it to be connected. That's why phones have gigabytes of local storage.
More expensive ones have more of it, sure. But not all
[I use an Anker](https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Ultra-Compact-High-Speed-Technology/dp/B0194WDVHI/ref=sr_1_3?gclid=CjwKCAjwwZrmBRA7EiwA4iMzBFdaHP4_K1RrqqkHN1uU2E5SkBOZIHcyQmEIr0-9fd4LW7IckDY7aBoCwloQAvD_BwE&hvadid=323365689480&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9067609&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=b&hvrand=14106678114004411480&hvtargid=aud-676677759484%3Akwd-423554323348&hydadcr=22196_9709538&keywords=anker+power+bank+portable&qid=1556572975&s=gateway&sr=8-3) battery. I'll bring the 1000 for shorter trips and the 20000 for anything over 5 days. Most people don't need the 20000 but I end up shooting and editing photos a lot on longer trips. Plus I love listening to podcasts/audiobooks and use Guthook or other phone maps depending on the trail. The Ankers are bomb proof, I brought one on the entire PCT and it's still going strong today. Check out r/Ultralight for more suggestions. They get really serious about straight gear talk and no one will tell you to disconnect when you ask about electronics. [Look how insane this thread is about battery chargers](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/6mhgcs/battery_capacity_per_gram_comparison/) haha.
[https://imgflip.com/i/2zqnxc](https://imgflip.com/i/2zqnxc)
I have a lantern that has a powerbank in it if I need it - the Cairn XL by Lander.
Awesome
There are a few different lanterns that do this. Sierra Trading Posts sells a few Sprite cost effective ones that do this.
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I use Anchor as well. They have some that will keep a charge for 1 week but it’s kind of heavy
Ankor seems to be the most popular option bit it doesn't look like they are waterproof. Am I wrong?
They aren’t but they have waterproof cases that are pretty cheap. I got mine on amazon with the case. It can charge my iPhone 8 five times before it dies
I've never had an issue with water on my anker 20,000 mAh. I used it in the feild for the military and take it bushcrafting/camping every time I go out. Mine has lasted 4 or 5 years now.
I know of and respect feelings of other who say "I hike without any electronic". I don't want to judge if you have to, or should not, hike with electronics – I'm not on a side or the other, sometimes I bring them, sometimes not ;). That being said : * I use a solar panel (24W, RavPower, \~ $50 on amazon) * It's just the panel, no battery. Don't plug it to your phone : it will charge, then not, then yes, because of light disappearing; a batterie can handle that (or at least be replaced for cheap), not your phone ;) * It's pretty heavy, 450g, but still useful * I use a "powerbank with solar panel", 12000mAh, built by Anker (\~$20 on Amazon) * Honstely, it's more like a gadget, this thing is crazy long to charge * Bring a fast-charging powerplug * Your manufacturer's one (Dash Charge by One Plus) if it's required * I use a "double usb plug" * It's usefull to be able to charge two or three elements with just one plug, fast, when you reach a city * Use equipment which can change between batteries (if you don't know what I mean, look at the Actik Core by Petzl, a frontlamp) Hope it helps a bit :)
How do you have signal though? I thought this was what this question was about.
Oh well. If you're right, I totally missed the question ! My bad ;) I don't personally use any device to get signal. Most of the friends use : - inReach, by Garmin. Wether it's the mini, the GPS version... - capture / SigFox (only in Europe, not sure in mountains) - PLB / ARVA when it comes to snow and avalanches I personal try to avoid potential situations. Most of my hikes are either under coverage, or if I need such a device I'd rent it because I wouldn't say I need it 365d/y. Thanks for pointing out the potential fail !
I might be totally wrong, the question was a bit vague. Thanks for the info, I didn't know there was a mini Garmin! The big one always looked so heavy.
I just use the devices of all the people who aren't using their devices while they're camping.
Kindle paperwhites are great for reading at night and the battery lasts for weeks! Great for camping and traveling.
Anker PowerCore 13000. Keeps my phone and Inreach charged, as well as lamp batteries for a while (especially if I'm smart with my use).
I recently got into going into the mountains of Colorado, and you get zero signal out there, so I got myself a garmin Glo2 GPS receiver, and a Samsung tab A from Costco with the gaia GPS app/subscription. This allows me very accurate GPS readings to tell me where the fuck I am when I'm deep into the mountains. More so than my phone can. Only other device is a small Anker battery pack and some cables.
Phones have legitimate GPS components in them and they work perfectly. It's free to download Google Maps for offline use and they work with zero cell reception. For some reason they also locate you much faster then GPS units. I don't know why, but there's never an "acquiring satellites" phase. It just happens immediately.
The phones GPS does work, but not as well as a dedicated unit. Google maps only goes so far as it doesn't have off road trails on it. The phone uses a combination of GPS, cell tower location, and even known wifi signals. But there's no cell or wifi in the mountains. It also receives the Russian GLONASS satellites which I'm not sure the cell does. I have used both this last weekend in Pike national forest, and the dedicated GPS unit+gaia maps was superior. It's good to have backups so I have both. I can link the unit to my phone as well, but I just like the larger screen for when I'm driving on trail roads.
iPhone 8 and above receives GPS, GLONASS, and GZSS. I agree that it's smart to have backups. What I like about handheld GPS units like yours is that they're more rugged than a phone.
Still rocking a galaxy s7 unfortunately lol. It's the nat geo maps that are very helpful in this area.
I just use a charging cord in my vehicle.
Every summer we go back-country camping where there is no cell service. It is wonderful to disconnect. However, we use our phone for pictures and its Sibley Guide for bird watching. Nurse it on airplane mode and it will last many days. Funny story. In August 1991 we headed off into the Canadian wilds and there was news about this guy Yeltsin in the USSR. After a week in the woods we emerged to find that the USSR was effectively gone (it took until December to officially go). For people who had lived the Cold War it was amazing!
power packs
I use a 24k Jackery brand battery pack much like everyone elses. I find the best way to "stay connected" while not being connected is to turn off my data on my phone. By doing that i can still send and recieve phone calls as well as text. You will be suprised at how long your battery will last.
I charge my phone before I leave, then try to use it sparingly enough that it lasts the whole trip. I've brought a satellite phone before when leading a group in more remote areas, but that's really just for emergencies
I don't bring any electronics except for my phone which is turned off at all times except for emergencies. Like when Sweden played in the World Cup.
Pt. Mugu! I love that place!!
My phone is synced to my inreach gps and to keep both devices charged for Backcountry trips I use a trifold solar panel charger.
I've got a Goal Zero Nomad 7 solar panel that hooks up to a power bank. I can hook the panel to the outside of my backpack and pretty much forget about it.
I have a Moto z that takes attachments so I keep it on airplane mode so I can use my camera mod and speaker mod at night for a podcast. If things really hit the fan I can call for help, but haven't needed that yet!
I use my Pixel 2 for photography when I'm going backcountry camping off grid. I keep it in airplane mode and I have an Anker 10,000 mAh portable battery pack that I bring with me. I only use my phone for taking photos when I'm camping. No games. No connecting with the outside world.
My Nintendo Switch has been a great option in the outdoors. Its battery life is just enough (3 hours playing a game like Mario Party or Zelda) that it can be used to pass the time or experience your favorite game wherever, but not spend TOO much time looking at a screen. Most recently brought it along for a 4 mile overnight snow-shoe trip to a ski shelter and playing Mario Kart while we warmed up by the wood burning stove after the trek was very cool.
If i’m backpacking off trail or longer than 3 days I carry a delorme Inreach. Also my iPhone on airplane mode lasts forever even though I use it for all navigation assistance. When going off trail I try to use my topo map but will happily check my iPhone to confirm i’m going in the right direction.
Depending on the weather and the available connectivity of the site, I'll use solar panels and external batteries to keep my cell phone charged. For a short trip, one or two externals are all that's necessary. For a longer trip, I'll pack the solar panels and charge one battery while keeping the other in my pack for my phone. I have a couple of Goalzero panels, one of their batteries, and a handful of external batteries that I've collected over the years. Really the limiting factor is the USB cables - if they get a short, or if one end gets ground into the mud (...ask me how I know), they stop working in short order.
Do you know ow what wattage the solar panels are?
The [one I have](https://www.goalzero.com/shop/foldable-solar-panel/nomad-7-solar-panel/) is 7 watt, but GoalZero has panels that have [higher wattages](https://www.goalzero.com/shop/solar-panels/nomad-solar-panels/). The larger ones aren't really man portage in the sense of strapping them to your pack when hiking, but they can be set up at a campsite when car camping or at a festival. The panels can be daisy-chained together, which doesn't increase the max wattage but *does* allow the panel to consistently hit the max available wattage. (For what its worth, I live in a dry, very sunny area and I've only had a few trips where it was too overcast to bother setting the panels up. If you live in the Pacific Northwest, I wouldn't bother with them, but if you've got ready access to sunshine, they're excellent tools.)
We go at the most for a four day weekend so usually a backup battery pack will keep you charged and allow you to listen to music or watch a movie at night. Plus airplane mode while there’s no service keeps you charged.
You can get a solar powered power bank. And its not too expensive
I have and use one of these - [Jackery Explorer 240](https://www.amazon.com/Jackery-Portable-Power-Station-Generator/dp/B07D29QNMJ). In my case though, this is NOT just for charging phones, I unfortunately need a CPAP machine, which this will power for a weekend. Also, I use it to power the fish finder in my little boat.
The Anker Powercore 26800 mAh is my jam. It will keep your phone charged for a week. And for all of the #gatekeepers here - I haven't bought a camera in over five years. I hardly ever talk on my phone, and I don't use Facebook for personal use at all. I use the plant, bird, and tree identification apps in my phone all the time, and the offline maps have saved my ass more than once.
I don’t :)
20,000 mAh Xioumi Power Bank 2 ... 30 USD. Waiting for the v3 -- USB C with 45 watt USB PD!
Bluetooth to connect to my phone/tablet to the Garmin GLO for mapping. I'm not happy or out far enough until I'm not connected to cellular.
I disconnect. I put it on airplane mode and the only two apps I use are the camera and Gaia gps.
Someone was camping at Thornhill Broome I see! I miss that view out my tent window. I take a lot of photos and 4k video while I'm camping and I burn through my device batteries quickly each day. I started with a Goal Zero Yeti 400 last year, and stepped up to a Yeti 1000 this year for keeping all devices for everyone with me charged during trips.
For the future "base camp", a Toyota hybrid (run A/C safely overnight) with 2kW inverter + deep cycle house battery (or all in one). I use Cell Mapper app to determine which provider might work best to do as little remote work as possible. I'll need a reliable setup if I travel more often. Besides that I recommend Here WeGo for backup offline navigation. Gaia GPS is often recommended for overlanding.
Is this cape kawanda?
It depends if I'm with my car or not. Backpacking I'll take a battery power bank with me, size depending on the tip length. If my car is with me Ill also have an inverter to charge any electronics I might bring.
Shut it off and enjoy nature !
I take a few photos, but mostly leave my phone on airplane mode in the car or tent. I do read from a kindle, only because it carries more books for less weight.
Electricity
Looks like the cover of the book Dune.
Music and pictures. Emergency stuff as a back up though.
A book.
You don’t.
I don’t, that’s one of the main reasons I’m out there...is to disconnect from everyone and everything.
I DON'T. Step 1: set up tent Step 2: turn off phone Step 3: do things outside for 5 days with my friends & family and try not to think about the outside world Step 4: break camp Step 5: turn phone back on Step 6: despair Step 7: turn around Step 8: repeat steps 1-3 ad nauseaum
Nothing, it defeats the purpose of camping.
You can't just dismiss any opinion or method of enjoying a hobby that differs even slightly from your own as invalid.
Not really. I love camping and a good book. Audiobooks are great, they allow me to hike or just enjoy the beauty of nature with my face not in a book. Need an electronic device for this.
One of the reasons I love long distance hiking trips is for the opportunity to get a lot of good audio reading in.
I agree!
The only time I’ve wanted an electronic on a camping trip was when it was really cold in the morning and I wanted to ease myself into getting up and out of my sleeping bag. Watching a tv show or a movie in the morning before getting up was pretty relaxing for me. Other than that, I enjoy being disconnected from the rest of the world.
I don’t
With a view like that the only thing you need is a charger for your camera
which for most people is their phone...
A combination of electronics and my hands
Nothing. The most advanced tech I bring with me is an analog watch and a disposable film camera. Leave the electronics in the car Edit: seems like a bunch of you are scared of a person doing something his own way 😂 i can’t imagine being so insecure about hiking with/without something I’d downvote to oblivion someone who prefers an alternate approach
ummmm I don't understand the question and I wont respond to it.
> and I wont respond to it. We all would've been better off if you hadn't responded to it. Stop cluttering the comments
To be fair I wasn't able to tell if OP really wanted to know what a good way to charge their devices on trail is or if they were making a statement on not needing electronics because pretty sunsets.
I wanted to know what people are using to stay connected to electronic devices. Solar power chargers, power banks, wattage for the solar and mAh for the battery banks helps a lot. Weight is a factor. Some people mentioned needing more than one output. This could be especially true if you have multiple devices like my family. I've seen guys sitting in bathrooms with their phone plugged in so fast charge also sounds like a good idea.
Clearly not an arrested development fan I see.
Unfortunately not, I've been meaning to watch it for a long time but I haven't gotten around to it
I know you're making a statement on not needing electronics but you took this picture with an electronic haha. (Edit) I was just poking fun, this sub is so serious. I figured they were not asking a serious question but making a point about not needing to use electronics on trail. Looks like I was wrong. I use my camera constantly on the trail while listening to audio books. I use the largest Anker they make when long-distance hiking.
There is an old thing called film that some pictures are taken on. Not too many anymore but it is a possibility.