I’ve been inspired by what feels like a renewed push for massive solar infrastructure, so recently bought a small solar panel from Jackery. Excellent for road trips and camping. I have a couple batteries and use the panel with the small Explorer 100 Plus. (This is going to sound like a Jackery ad.)
@manton These things are the best! I have a Jackery Explorer 100, and a couple other lunchbox-sized batteries we carry around for camping and keep handy at home for emergencies.
I just keep them in my truck plugged into the 12V under my back seat, and they're always charged and ready to go. Top them off on long trips with the folding solar panels, and it's a great solution. I even run my portable fridge off the larger one.
@jimmylittle Nice! I have a medium-sized one that I plug into the car too. Works great and lasts a long time for basic use with devices and laptop.
@manton I have an Explorer 1000 Pro that's basically for camping and emergency use. Much better than carrying individual small battery packs for those needs. A couple years ago, I also DIY'd two panels with a charge controller, battery, and a couple of circuits on my shed, as an exercise and emergency backup. They have worked quite well. I usually charge the Jackery with that.
@manton This is fantastic! I’ve been meaning to get a larger portable power solution as an emergency backup. But you’ve got me thinking I should start small to learn & acclimate myself.