Keeping your iPhone or camera charged on the Appalachian Trail (AT) can be a challenge due to the remote locations and lack of traditional power outlets. However, there are several products that can help ensure your devices remain charged throughout your adventure. Below are the best products for charging your devices on the trail, from solar chargers to portable power banks, designed to endure the rigors of long-distance hiking.
- Solar Chargers
Solar chargers are one of the most popular choices for hikers who want to keep their devices powered up using renewable energy. These chargers work well in sunny weather, allowing you to use the sun’s energy to charge your devices while on the trail.
- Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus Solar Panel
- Features: The Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus is one of the best solar chargers for hikers. It offers 7 watts of power, which is enough to charge small devices like phones or cameras. It’s durable, water-resistant, and has built-in USB ports for easy connection to your devices.
- Pros: Lightweight, reliable, and charges devices while you hike.
- Cons: Less effective on cloudy days, requires direct sunlight.
- Anker PowerPort Solar Lite
- Features: This is a compact and lightweight solar charger that offers 15W of power to charge your devices. It has a foldable design, making it easy to pack, and it’s made with durable, weather-resistant material to withstand outdoor conditions.
- Pros: Fast charging, lightweight, and compact design.
- Cons: Larger size may not be as convenient for all hikers.
- Portable Power Banks
For more reliable and consistent charging, a portable power bank can be a lifesaver. Power banks store energy and allow you to charge your devices even when you’re not near a power source or during the night.
- Anker PowerCore 26800 PD
- Features: This high-capacity power bank has 26,800mAh of power, which can charge your iPhone multiple times or keep your camera running for extended periods. It’s equipped with USB-C PD (Power Delivery) for faster charging, and it can charge multiple devices at once.
- Pros: High capacity, multiple device charging, fast charging.
- Cons: Heavier than smaller power banks (but the extra weight is worth it for long hikes).
- RAVPower 26800mAh Power Bank
- Features: This power bank offers 26,800mAh of charging capacity with three USB ports for simultaneous charging. It’s compact, reliable, and perfect for extended hiking trips.
- Pros: High capacity, multiple device charging, quick recharge time.
- Cons: Slightly bulky for ultralight hikers.
- Mophie Powerstation XXL
- Features: The Mophie Powerstation XXL is a well-known power bank offering 20,000mAh of capacity. It can charge your phone multiple times and is compatible with various devices. The slim design and powerful battery make it ideal for multi-day hikes.
- Pros: Slim design, good capacity, and multiple charging ports.
- Cons: Not as light as some other power banks.
- Hand Crank Chargers
For hikers who want a backup option that doesn’t rely on solar power or need charging in an emergency, hand crank chargers are a useful tool. They generate power by manually cranking a handle to create energy.
- K-TOR Pocket Socket 2 Hand Crank Generator
- Features: The Pocket Socket 2 is a small, compact hand crank generator that allows you to charge devices with a simple crank. It generates 10W of power, which is enough to charge small devices like phones and GPS units in an emergency situation.
- Pros: No need for sunlight or batteries, small and portable.
- Cons: Requires physical effort to generate power, slow charging.
- Freeplay Freedom+ Hand Crank Charger
- Features: This device provides emergency charging through manual cranking. It’s perfect for situations when you can’t rely on solar energy or if you’re in an area with no charging options.
- Pros: No power source required, compact, can charge small devices.
- Cons: Requires cranking, limited charging capacity.
- External Solar Battery Packs
These devices combine the benefits of solar charging with the practicality of a power bank. They can be charged via solar energy during the day and used to power your devices at night.
- Goal Zero Venture 30 Solar Recharger Kit
- Features: This kit combines a 30W power bank with a solar panel, allowing you to charge your devices both during the day and at night. The Venture 30 is durable and weather-resistant, making it ideal for hiking in rugged conditions.
- Pros: High capacity, solar charging during the day, compact and durable.
- Cons: Charging speed is dependent on sunlight, heavier than regular power banks.
- Jackery SolarSaga 60W Solar Panel & Power Bank
- Features: Jackery’s combination of a solar panel and power bank offers a versatile solution for long hikes. The 60W panel charges devices and the power bank at the same time, offering enough capacity to keep your iPhone and camera charged for the duration of your hike.
- Pros: Fast charging, compact, solar and battery combination.
- Cons: Larger and heavier, best for more serious hikers who need ample power.
- USB Rechargeable Batteries for Cameras
If you’re specifically looking to keep your camera charged, consider using USB rechargeable batteries that allow you to directly charge your camera via a power bank or solar charger. This eliminates the need to carry extra batteries and allows you to recharge your camera wherever you have access to a charging source.
- Wasabi Power USB Dual Charger for GoPro
- Features: This charger is ideal for GoPro users and other USB rechargeable cameras. It allows you to charge your camera’s batteries on the go, making it a great tool for documenting your AT journey.
- Pros: Compact, easy to use, and doesn’t require extra batteries.
- Cons: Only works with USB-rechargeable cameras.
Keeping your iPhone or camera charged on the Appalachian Trail requires the right tools to ensure your devices stay powered in remote, rugged terrain. Solar chargers, power banks, hand crank generators, and external battery packs are all excellent options, depending on your preferences and the type of hike you’re embarking on. If you’re an ultralight hiker, a small, efficient power bank or compact solar charger will work best, while those with a more extended journey may want a larger battery pack or a hybrid solar-battery solution. With the right product in hand, you can capture the beauty of the AT and stay connected when needed, no matter how far you roam.
