Sometimes a man, or a woman, needs a little alone time. One of the best ways to get away from it all is to drop off the grid. You know, head out into the forest, the desert, or get on a sailboat and cruise the world’s mighty oceans. But even nomadic people living among us who can do without many modern technological conveniences might want to check their email once in a while, or power up their GPS devices and make sure they know where they are, or check in with rest of the chaotic, plugged-in world and see what’s going on. So yeah, get away from it all if you have the time and resources — but just in case you miss the buzz of digital humanity, we’ve compiled a list of five tech options to help you power up your digital devices while you’re out roaming the wilds.
Anker 14W Dual-Port Solar Charger with PowerIQ Technology
The Anker 14W Dual-Port Solar Charger with PowerIQ Technology is a wonderful solar charger that you can take with you just about anywhere. With the ability to charge two devices at the same time, Anker’s dual-port 14-watt power — combined with the charger’s rugged design — means lots of power to use in the great outdoors. Clocking in at only 1.74 pounds, you’ll hardly notice this solar charger in your backpack (or on it, open and soaking up the sun) or on your bike. What you will notice is the literal power it gives you, plus the PowerIQ technology that recognizes what kind of device (Android, Apple, etc.) the charger is “talking” too.
Siva Cycle The Siva Atom Portable Charger
If you’re the kind of person who lives on a bike, but also lives for that next text, email, or Instagram photo-sharing opportunity, you should be well pleased with Siva Cycle’s “The Atom” Portable Charger. This inventive little gadget can charge your lights, as well as your Android devices, GoPro cameras, iPhones, and other modern digital necessities. Simply hook up the waterproof charger to your bike, “harness the kinetic energy” of your pedaling motion in the removable lithium-polymer battery pack, and then use the battery to charge your gear. Voilà, you’re good to go. You can also charge it when you’re not on the go — for example, sitting at your desk in between bike commutes — via the standard USB port
Trinity Portable Wind Turbine
If you live in a windy, remote locale, or are planning on trekking through such a location anytime soon, the Trinity Portable Wind Turbine could be the portable power source for you. While these babies aren’t cheap, coming in at well over $300, they do make wonderful use of that annoying wind. You know, the hard wind blowing in your face, slowing you down while you climb a hill in the rain. Coming in four different sizes, and able to charge an iPhone 16 times over when fully juiced, these sturdy wind turbines are perfect for setting up your own tiny power plant while you’re camping out in Mother Nature.
Goal Zero Guide 10 Plus Solar Kit
The Goal Zero Guide 10 Plus Solar Kit is yet another way to harness the awesome, life-giving power of the sun. The kit, which includes the Nomad 7 Solar Panel and the Guide 10 Plus Recharger, charges digital devises like smart phones, as well as AA/AAA rechargeable batteries. While not 100% waterproof, the Guide 10 is tough and weather-resistant, and should hold up as you hike through the wilds. Mixing and matching the kit also gives you the option of chaining together extra solar panels, which in turn speeds up charging times as you set up your mini solar array.
Blue Freedom Hydropower Plant
The Blue Freedom Hydropower Plant is billed as the “world’s smallest hydropower plant.” If you live by or happen to be camping near a creek, waterfall, river or other source of flowing water (trying to avoid sewage drainage ditches), the Blue Freedom (available for preorder) can power a ton of different electronic devices via its USB charging function. Simply let the water do all of the work, while you enjoy all of the power.
