Slashdot Mirror

← Back to Stories (view on slashdot.org)

Practical Solar Power for Travelers?

Posted by Cliff on from the roll-up-solar-arrays dept.

kalido asks: "When travelling with gadgets it can be a pain to keep the power flowing, especially in remote locations. Are there any practical methods to recharge batteries and devices when on the go? A bit of googling turns up the PowerFilm, PowerFlex and SolarRoll flexible solar panels. But I haven't seen any reviews anywhere. Have any of you used these or similar devices and how easy is it to use if attached to a pack, bike, jacket, etc.?"

2 of 34 comments (clear)

  1. WindUp May Be The Way To Go by Doug+Dante · · Score: 4, Informative

    It works in the dark, on the go, and when you want it. FreePlay in particular has manufactured and sold WindUp Radios and Flashlights in Africa for some time now. Free Play WindUp Radios and Flashlights http://windupradio.com/windup.htm Sidewinder Portable Cell Phone Charger: http://www.thetravelinsider.info/roadwarriorconten t/sidewinder.htm For portable MP-3 players, I guess that you just have to bring extra batteries. They can last quite a long time, depending on your brand.

    --
    The world will not get better through technology. We must seek to be better people.
  2. ScotteVest by USSJoin · · Score: 4, Informative

    Scottevest (here) is an interesting company, making technical garments. I own their basic vest, and love it dearly, but the Solar Finetex Jacket (look here) is a great product, already set up for charging, and with the system of internal conduits, you can run wires without having them hang off you. Check it out; I highly recommend it.