If spending time outside is your jam, going on a camping trip with friends and family is probably a favorite pastime. Camping is an activity that people have been enjoying for decades and it allows one to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy the quiet, serenity of the outdoors. As with anything else, if you do it enough, camping can become a costly endeavor. So, how do you save money when camping and still have a good time? Some campers are beginning to invest in solar panels to take with them when they go camping. Solar panels are the most popular energy source around the world. A typical solar panel has a weight of around 100 pounds, which is quite heavy when considering transporting them. So,is solar worth it?
This article will provide some useful information before your next camping trip so that you can put solar panels to use as well!
1. Positioning is important
When you set up your campsite, it is important to place your solar panels in direct sunlight. It may sound simple and like common sense, but you would be amazed at how many people find themselves in a dilemma without any solar power because they failed to position their panels appropriately. The reason that it is important to position the solar panels in direct sunlight is that this is how your panels will collect energy to convert into power.
2. Invest in the correct size
Depending on the size of your campsite, you will want to invest in the compatible-sized panels. Doing so will ensure that you will have the ability to provide the right amount of power for everything you need while camping. The most common things that you will need power for include cooking, air conditioning, or even bathing.
3. Be aware of what you should power with solar power and what you shouldn’t
The most common appliance to power with solar panels is a small refrigerator that is built for camping or to be used in a residence hall. 12v refrigerators are small but mighty and will utilize over half of the power from your solar charger. Other items you may want to charge with your solar panels may include camp lights, an air compressor, or small electronics such as a laptop or television.
4. Buy a solar panel that will fit in your camping gear
One of the easiest mistakes to make is to buy a solar panel that is too large to fit into your vehicle or camping gear. It can be enticing to buy the biggest one you can find, especially if you are concerned about not having enough energy to power your belongings. However, keep in mind that if you purchase a large solar panel, you will need a place to store it and you will also need to transport it to your campsite. Both of these activities require the use of space which can be a hot commodity when you are out in the wilderness camping.
To avoid such a costly mistake, it is best to invest in solar panels that are flexible, small, and can easily be packed along with other items. If you follow these guidelines, you will certainly find yourself benefiting a great deal from the solar panels as opposed to being put out by having to find space to transport them.
5. Be familiar with solar terminology so you can work the equipment without hassle
It is best to avoid falling victim to a common problem that consumers have when they invest in equipment that they don’t know much about. It is not uncommon for a consumer to go out and buy the latest in technology only to find themselves at a loss when they get the product home since they don’t know much about it and don’t even know how to use it. Before you invest in solar panels, it is in your best interest to become familiar with the terminology, intricacies, and specific nuances that is required to make solar panels work sufficiently on a camping trip. To start, check out consumer reviews on solar panels, read about manufacturer’s support and specifications, and watch some YouTube videos to gather additional knowledge so that you are not only equipped with the proper equipment, but also the know-how to use it while you are on a camping trip! Otherwise, your investment will be a waste of money if you are unable to make use of it.
Conclusion
Camping is a great activity that allows one to spend time in nature. If you like to camp but you have a hard time being without electricity, you may want to consider investing in solar panels to bring along with you on your trip. Doing so will provide a great return on your investment as it will allow you the privilege of using comforts that you are used to such as using a refrigerator, making a hot meal, or taking a warm shower.