View Full Version : solar charger for an Iphone, and other simple stuff
trailchick
05-15-2013, 16:41
Hi,
I am getting ready for my section hike and I will need just a few things. A Solar charger for my Iphone is my biggest concern. What are your suggestions? I am looking for something less expensive and do-able.
Rain gear and a cover for my back pack suggestions? Last year I used a trash bag but I was only out for 9 days. This year I will be out for a bit longer. Again, nothing too expensive but will be do able.
all though, I plan on sunshine the entire trek....ok, perhaps not, I will embrace the rain!
Thank you in advance.
FarmerChef
05-15-2013, 16:57
Trailchick - I have hiked through all kind of weather with a soaking wet backpack exterior and a perfectly dry interior thanks to a heavy duty trashbag or compactor bag. While you can use a pack cover, you'll find quite a few folks here have had good success with bag liners as opposed to covers. You'll find some of the opposite though as well. It's really up to personal preference.
Solar charger - most of what I've read about them has not been positive, mainly because the AT is a green tunnel and it takes so long to generate a charge unless you get a really big (read: heavy) unit. If you really need to charge and can't find an outlet during your section, you're going to have to stop early and find a spot in the sun to sit your charger. Otherwise, I recommend trying one of the battery powered units like an iTrent or similar. These are light(ish) and get the job done. In my experience, I've never really needed it. Just sip your power until the next town and politely ask to plug in while you're eating your pizza or updating your journal at the library. I've personally never had a problem doing this but I'm sure someone has a story to the opposite. ;)
Chaco Taco
05-15-2013, 16:57
others have suggested this
http://www.newtrent.com/newtrent-imp52d-itorch-iphone-portable-battery.html
FarmerChef
05-15-2013, 17:11
others have suggested this
http://www.newtrent.com/newtrent-imp52d-itorch-iphone-portable-battery.html
Oops. Thanks for the correction, CT. I meant iTorch instead of iTrent. My mistake.
Goal zero baby, or just carry a lot of AA batteries for the goal zero charger
Cave.Goose
05-15-2013, 20:44
I carried the Goal Zero Nomad for a week in March. I was quite pleased with it. I have an Android. My buddy has an iPhone. He also used it to charge his video camera (I don't know the brand.).
http://www.trailspace.com/gear/goal-zero/nomad-7m-solar-panel/#review27278
SunnyWalker
05-15-2013, 21:15
Go to Trekite.com
i use an external battery, i recharge both my phone and battery when is get the chance. make sure the battery is works with your iPhone. My first two did not work.
trailchick
05-16-2013, 12:09
Thank you everyone for the responses. I am going to check them out next week and make a purchase. I have ordered my AWOL guide and I am so excited to get out there.
Its all good
Oops. Thanks for the correction, CT. I meant iTorch instead of iTrent. My mistake.
+1 on the iTorch! This is perfect for 3 or 4 days in between resupplies.
Try a NEW Trent (http://www.newtrent.com/). I got mine through Amazon and got an extra for free.
Coosa