I’ve been working on a DIY project recently that I think might be helpful for anyone looking to stay powered up while out in the wilderness – a portable solar charger that’s easy to build and perfect for camping or hiking.
Here’s how I did it:
Materials Needed:
- Small solar panel (around 10W)
- USB power converter
- Rechargeable battery pack
- Waterproof case or pouch
- Wiring connectors
- Velcro straps or clips to attach it to a backpack
The Build:
- I connected the solar panel to the USB power converter and attached the battery pack in between to store the energy.
- The whole system fits inside a waterproof pouch that I can easily strap to the top of my backpack or set up at camp. It charges while I hike, and I can use the battery pack to power my phone, GPS, or headlamp at night.
Testing It Out:
- On a recent trip, it worked great! The solar panel provided enough juice to keep my phone charged for navigation, and the battery pack stored extra power for use after sunset. Even with cloudy weather, I managed to get enough energy to keep my devices running.
Why It’s Useful:
- This setup is lightweight, compact, and much cheaper than buying a pre-made solar charger. Plus, it’s customizable depending on your power needs. If you’re on a longer trip, you can scale up the battery pack or add more solar panels.
Anyone else tackled a DIY project like this? I’d love to hear what you’ve built and how it worked out in the field. If you have any tips for improving solar efficiency on the go, let me know!
Stay charged,
Alex
