Overlanding is an adventurous form of travel that takes you off the beaten path, often to remote and off – grid locations. Whether it’s exploring the vast deserts of the American Southwest, traversing the rugged terrains of the Australian outback, or venturing deep into the forests of Europe, overlanders rely on their vehicles and equipment to sustain them during their journey. One crucial piece of equipment for any overlander is a reliable power source, and this is where solar generators come in.
When you’re out in the wilderness, far from the reach of electrical outlets, a solar generator can be a game – changer. It allows you to charge your devices, run essential appliances, and even power some tools, all while harnessing the clean and renewable energy of the sun. But with so many solar generators on the market, how do you choose the best one for your overlanding adventures?
Key Considerations for Choosing a Solar Generator for Overlanding
Power Output and Capacity
The power output of a solar generator is measured in watts, and the capacity is measured in watt – hours (Wh). For overlanding, you need to consider the power requirements of the devices you’ll be using. If you plan to run a small fridge to keep your food and drinks cold, charge your smartphones, tablets, and cameras, and perhaps use a small fan to keep cool at night, you’ll need a solar generator with sufficient power output.
A typical small fridge might consume around 50 – 100 watts, while a smartphone charger could draw 5 – 10 watts. If you’re using multiple devices simultaneously, you need to add up their power consumption. For example, if you have a fridge consuming 80 watts, two smartphones charging at 10 watts each, and a tablet charging at 15 watts, the total power requirement is 115 watts. So, you’ll need a solar generator that can handle at least this much power.
In terms of capacity, a higher – capacity solar generator will be able to store more energy, which means it can power your devices for longer periods without recharging. If you’re going on a multi – day overlanding trip and expect to have limited sunlight for charging, a solar generator with a capacity of 1000 Wh or more might be a good choice.
Portability and Size
Since overlanding involves traveling in a vehicle and often carrying your equipment to different campsites, portability is a crucial factor. You want a solar generator that is lightweight and easy to carry. Look for models that are compact and have built – in handles or are designed to be easily stowed away in your vehicle.
Some solar generators are specifically designed with overlanding in mind and come in a rugged, compact case that can withstand the bumps and jostles of off – road travel. Additionally, consider the size of the solar panels. Folding solar panels are a great option as they can be easily packed away when not in use and are more convenient to transport.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Overlanding takes you to various environments, and your solar generator needs to be able to withstand the elements.Look for generators that are built with durable materials and are weather – resistant. A rugged outer casing can protect the internal components from dust, dirt, and minor impacts.
If you’re traveling to areas with high humidity, rain, or even snow, a solar generator that is waterproof or at least water – resistant is essential. Some models are also designed to operate in extreme temperatures, whether it’s the sweltering heat of the desert or the cold of a mountainous region.
Charging Speed and Efficiency
The charging speed of a solar generator depends on several factors, including the power of the solar panels, the efficiency of the charge controller, and the capacity of the battery. A faster – charging solar generator means you can spend less time waiting for your devices to charge and more time enjoying your overlanding adventure.
High – quality solar panels with a high power output, such as 100 – 200 – watt panels, will generally charge the battery more quickly. An efficient charge controller also plays a crucial role in ensuring that the solar energy is converted and stored in the battery with minimal losses. Additionally, some solar generators come with multiple charging options, such as the ability to charge from a car charger or an AC outlet when available, which can be useful for topping up the battery quickly.
Compatibility with Devices
Make sure the solar generator you choose is compatible with the devices you’ll be using. It should have the right types of ports, such as USB ports for charging smartphones and tablets, and AC outlets for running small appliances. Some solar generators also come with DC ports, which can be used to power devices like portable fans or small LED lights directly.
If you have any specialized devices, such as a CPAP machine for medical reasons, check that the solar generator can provide the necessary power and voltage requirements.
Types of Solar Generators Suitable for Overlanding
Portable Solar Generators with Built – in Batteries
These are all – in – one units that consist of a battery, a charge controller, and sometimes even a small set of solar panels. They are highly portable and easy to use. The battery capacity can range from a few hundred watt – hours to over a thousand watt – hours.
Advantages
Convenience: Everything is in one unit, so you don’t have to worry about connecting multiple components. You can simply take it out of your vehicle, place it in a sunny spot, and start charging your devices.
Lightweight: Many of these portable solar generators are designed to be lightweight, making them easy to carry around camp.
Built – in Protection: They often come with built – in protection features for the battery, such as over – charge and over – discharge protection, which helps to extend the lifespan of the battery.
Disadvantages
Limited Power Output: Compared to larger, more powerful solar generator setups, portable solar generators with built – in batteries may have a relatively limited power output. This may not be sufficient if you need to power high – wattage appliances for an extended period.
Smaller Solar Panel Capacity: Some models may come with only a small solar panel, which can result in slower charging times, especially in low – light conditions.
Modular Solar Generator Systems
Modular solar generator systems allow you to customize your setup based on your needs. You can start with a basic unit that includes a battery and a charge controller and then add additional solar panels as needed.
Advantages
Customizability: You can tailor the system to your specific power requirements. If you find that you need more power as your overlanding adventures progress, you can easily add more solar panels to increase the charging speed and overall power output.
Scalability: These systems are scalable, meaning you can start small and expand the system over time. This is a cost – effective way to build a solar generator setup that grows with your needs.
Higher Power Output Potential: By adding more solar panels, you can achieve a higher power output, making it suitable for powering larger appliances or multiple devices simultaneously.
Disadvantages
Complexity: Since these are modular systems, there is a bit more complexity involved in setting them up and connecting the components. You need to ensure that all the components are compatible and properly installed.
Initial Cost: The initial cost of a modular solar generator system can be higher compared to a simple portable solar generator, as you may need to purchase multiple components separately.
Top Solar Generators for Overlanding
Goal Zero Yeti 500X
The Goal Zero Yeti 500X is a popular choice among overlanders. It has a lithium – ion battery with a capacity of 515 Wh, which is sufficient for powering a variety of small to medium – sized devices. The generator has a pure sine wave inverter with a power output of 500 watts, which can handle most common appliances and electronics.
It is relatively lightweight, weighing only 13.2 pounds, and comes with a built – in handle for easy carrying. The Yeti 500X can be charged using solar panels, an AC outlet, or a car charger, giving you multiple options for recharging. It also has a variety of ports, including USB ports and an AC outlet, making it compatible with a wide range of devices.
Jackery Explorer 1000
The Jackery Explorer 1000 is another excellent option. It features a lithium – ion battery with a capacity of 1002 Wh, providing plenty of power for extended overlanding trips. The generator has a pure sine wave inverter with a 1000 – watt power output, allowing you to run more power – hungry appliances.
It is designed to be portable, weighing 22 pounds, and has a compact shape that makes it easy to store in your vehicle. The Explorer 1000 can be charged using solar panels, AC, or car charging. It also comes with a digital display that shows the battery level, power output, and charging status, making it easy to monitor.
Bluetti AC200MAX
The Bluetti AC200MAX is a powerful solar generator that is well – suited for overlanding. It has a large lithium – ion battery with a capacity of 2048 Wh, which can provide long – lasting power for your devices. The generator has a pure sine wave inverter with a 2000 – watt power output, allowing you to run high – power appliances such as small air conditioners or power tools.
It is built to be durable, with a rugged case that can withstand the rigors of off – road travel. The AC200MAX can be charged using multiple solar panels, and it also supports fast charging via an AC outlet. It has a wide range of ports, including USB – C ports, which are becoming increasingly common for charging modern devices.
Tips for Using a Solar Generator During Overlanding
Optimize Solar Panel Placement
To get the most out of your solar generator, it’s essential to place the solar panels in an area where they can receive maximum sunlight. In the Northern Hemisphere, solar panels should generally face south, while in the Southern Hemisphere, they should face north. The optimal tilt angle of the panels depends on your latitude. For example, if you’re traveling at a latitude of 30 degrees, the optimal tilt angle for solar panels is around 20 – 30 degrees.
Make sure there are no obstructions, such as trees or rocks, that could shade the solar panels and reduce their efficiency. If you’re camping in a wooded area, you may need to find a clearing or use a portable stand to elevate the solar panels above the tree line.
Charge at the Right Time
Since solar generators rely on sunlight to charge, it’s best to charge them during the day when the sun is at its peak. Try to fully charge the generator before you start your overlanding trip. If you’re on a multi – day trip, charge the generator whenever there is sufficient sunlight. You can also use a car charger to top up the battery while you’re driving, especially if you have a long journey ahead.
Prioritize Power Usage
During overlanding, it’s important to prioritize your power usage. Only use the devices and appliances that are essential for your comfort and safety. For example, running a small fridge to keep your food fresh is more important than using a portable TV. Avoid using non – essential devices like video game consoles or high – power heaters, as they can quickly drain the battery of your solar generator.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best solar generator for overlanding is a crucial decision that can greatly enhance your off – grid adventures. By considering factors such as power output, portability, durability, charging speed, and compatibility with your devices, you can find a solar generator that meets your specific needs. The Goal Zero Yeti 500X, Jackery Explorer 1000, and Bluetti AC200MAX are all excellent options that have been tried and tested by overlanders.
Remember to optimize the use of your solar generator by properly placing the solar panels, charging at the right time, and prioritizing power usage. With a reliable solar generator in your overlanding toolkit, you can enjoy the freedom of the open road and the beauty of remote locations while still having access to the power you need to keep your devices charged and your appliances running. So, go ahead and plan your next overlanding adventure with confidence, knowing that you have a reliable power source to keep you going.
