Hiking & Bivouac: Being Self-Sufficient in Electricity

Embarking on an adventure in the great outdoors doesn't mean being cut off from the world. Most of us hike with various electronic devices: smartphones, GoPros, drones, rechargeable headlamps, GPS watches... Today, being self-sufficient in electricity during your hikes and bivouacs is easier than ever thanks to a wide range of accessories. Whether you're walking the trails of Brittany or camping in the mountains, here’s how to stay connected and illuminated without sacrificing the freedom of adventure. 

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Solutions to Stay Powered During Your Adventures

If you don't come across a shelter or building during your hikes, you'll need to consider two essential accessories: an external battery and a portable solar panel.

External Batteries: A Must-Have for Trekkers

External batteries are essential for anyone looking to stay connected during hikes and camping trips. They provide a mobile and reliable power source to charge your electronic devices. Modern external batteries come in various capacities. For hiking, to keep the weight manageable, it's recommended to use a powerbank with a capacity between 5000 and 20000 mAh. A 5000 mAh model provides enough power for one charge, while a 10000 mAh model – the most popular among hikers – offers two charges. Finally, a 20000 mAh model will give you four charges.When choosing an external battery, you can opt for a water-resistant and shockproof model to ensure its durability in outdoor environments. Batteries with multiple output ports are especially useful as they allow you to charge several devices at once.

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Practical tips to maximize battery life 

To maximize your electrical autonomy during hiking and camping trips, it is crucial to manage your energy resources effectively. The first step is to manage energy usage efficiently. This means turning off your devices when they are not in use and activating the power-saving modes available on your electronic devices. For your smartphone, switching it to airplane mode is a good way to save battery. These small actions can significantly extend the life of your batteries.

Next, prioritize charging. Identify the essential devices and charge them first. For example, your phone and headlamp are likely more critical than your drone. Also, plan your charging times. During peak sunlight hours, take advantage of the opportunity to recharge your power bank by connecting it to your solar panel. Keep in mind that the output is relatively low, so don't expect to fully charge a power bank in just two hours.

Optimizing conditions is also key. Place your solar panels in well-exposed areas, facing the sun, and move them if necessary to follow the sun's path. Additionally, avoid leaving your electronic equipment in direct sunlight to prevent overheating, which can reduce the efficiency of both batteries and solar panels.

By following these tips, you will be able to maximize your electrical autonomy, ensuring a more comfortable and worry-free hiking and camping experience.