![]() ![]() Newer smartphones with better battery life make a huge difference, especially if you’re using it often for navigation.ĭedicated GPS navigation devices, like the Garmin eTrex 22x, have much better battery life than a smartphone. Here are some of the ways to conserve power – or not – based on which electronics you’re bikepacking with. It’s obvious that different devices have different charging needs, but I’ve found the differences can be even bigger than expected. Most of these riders use power banks in conjunction with a dynamo hub, though increasingly efficient solar panels can be a more budget-friendly option. If you won’t be seeing an electricity grid for weeks or will be riding straight through the night, you’ll absolutely need some way to replenish on the go. Definitely no power outlets here in the backcountry of New Mexico.Įxpedition riding or bikepack racing: two different styles for sure, but both have similarly massive power needs. You’ll want a healthy supply of power banks, and if your route includes some lunch or grocery stops, a multi-port quick charging wall plug and cables so you can top up efficiently while you eat. Wild camping – setting up in the middle of nowhere, often on National Forest or BLM land if you’re in the US – is a great way to deplete your power reserves while enjoying peace and quiet. Generally any campground with RV hookups will have power somewhere, but it might not be near your tent site. You might find power here, or you might not. It helps to have a multi-port quick charging plug and cables so you can charge stuff quickly before bed. If you’re worried about leaving a phone or other valuable device unattended, plug in a power bank and then use that to charge other devices later. You might need to leave stuff charging in the bathroom or near some other power source. A bit cozy, but a great place to charge up electronics for the ride ahead.ĭeveloped campgrounds usually have power, but probably not at your site. A small power bank for backup wouldn’t hurt. You’ll likely want a multi-port wall charger and a couple cables and you’re good to go. ![]() Just plug stuff in overnight while you sleep. How much electricity will you need to power your bikepacking trip? Like all things bikepacking-related, it depends.Īre you sleeping in a motel or developed campground most nights, or will you be wild camping for several nights in a row? Taking plenty of leisurely breaks, or pushing through long days and even some nights? These factors make a huge difference in the electronics and charging methods you’ll need. – GPS Navigation Devices for Bikepacking: Side-by-Side Comparison Power Needs Depend on Route and Style #MY BACKUP BUDDY CHARGER HOW TO#I’ll cover everything from choosing your devices carefully to using them efficiently, and how to charge them on the go with electrons you create or capture yourself. If you can relate, or are just getting started and wondering how you’ll keep your phone and other electronics charged while bikepacking, then this post will hopefully be very helpful. And since items like navigation and lighting are usually mission-critical, running out of battery is simply not an option. If wild camping for several days in a row with no power outlets in sight, and/or doing a lot of night riding (as in bikepack racing), recharging needs can really add up. #MY BACKUP BUDDY CHARGER BLUETOOTH#Just some of the USB-rechargeable items I carry on a typical bikepacking trip (not pictured: Kindle and Bluetooth ear buds) ![]() Facebook and news feeds may be mercifully unavailable, but I still find myself schlepping a bunch of USB-fed devices into the backcountry, hungry for electrons in the middle of nowhere.īetween my elderly smartphone with failing battery life – which is my primary navigation device – and a Garmin InReach Mini, USB chargeable bike lights, and Kindle e-reader (my favorite luxury item on solo rides), a lot of electrons are needed. Yet ironically, keeping electronics charged is one of my biggest bikepacking gear issues. I like to pretend I’m returning to a simpler time, back before smartphones and the internet existed, when life was mostly just about playing outside (yes, I am definitely old enough to remember that, and yes, I know that dates me). Disconnecting from the digital world is honestly one of my favorite parts of bikepacking. ![]()
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