Achieving self-sufficiency is the holy grail of off-grid camping gear. It’s a big ask because all those extras we take for granted can suddenly disappear the moment we stray off the beaten track.
But, advances in technology have moved at the speed of sound. We can now replace our usual sources of energy and water or even seek medical help with portable and efficient alternatives.
Join us as we check out ten must-have off-grid camping gear, from the best portable power stations to portable solar panels for camping.
Freedom to Connect
The ultimate off-grid camping adventure appeals to our inner urge for freedom and a greater connection to nature. It’s now possible to achieve these goals without compromising on connectivity to city life or losing access to invaluable resources.
Taking a step back from more developed camping sites with modern amenities requires a bit of prep. Get it right, and you’ll achieve a deep sense of accomplishment by getting close to a wilder environment with complete self-reliance.
1. Portable Power Stations
These can work in tandem with portable generators. Portable power stations store energy rather than generating it. They’re a little like the big brothers of the small portable power packs you might use as a backup source to charge your smartphone. Those made by MaxWatt offer a range of power outlet types and ensure fast solar recharge rates.
Portable power stations offer a reliable power supply for camping trips in remote areas. Depending on their capacity and how many devices you run off them, some will allow you to stay self-sufficient for up to ten hours comfortably.
MaxWatt portable power stations produce zero emissions and are virtually silent. This makes them an ideal choice for areas where it’s important not to disrupt local habitats or delicate ecosystems.
2. Portable Solar Panels
These allow you to use the free source of energy from the sun and harness it for storage and later use in your portable power station. MaxWatt portable solar panels are light but durable and boast a higher conversion efficiency rate.
The beauty of our portable solar panels is that you can set them up virtually anywhere in seconds. You’ll then have a clean energy source on tap, and given the abundant hours of Australian sunshine, that source is virtually guaranteed all year round. You can even connect two panels together for even faster charging.
3. Off-Grid Generators
Power is the king of off-grid camping gear. A portable generator is a game-changer because it creates the power you need. It will quickly become your new bestie, allowing you to charge batteries, cook, boil water and use your tablet or laptop.
MaxWatt offers a range of off-grid portable generators, all designed to withstand the toughest conditions. Lightweight, super-silent and easy to move around, they will give you a stable power source for electronic devices from computers to smartphones.
4. Communication Devices
Satellite (SAT) phones and emergency radios are your link to help, advice and staying in touch with the outside world. They’re an essential part of off-grid camping gear when regular phone and data services are out of range.
Radios can keep you updated on weather conditions, while a SAT phone is a means of seeking help should you encounter difficulties. You’ll be able to work both using one of the best portable power stations from MaxWatt.
5. Navigation Tools
Never leave home without a compass if heading to more remote areas. Although smartphones may hold many of the tools you need, such as GPS devices, signals can be patchy. It may pay to do things the old-fashioned way and travel with paper maps and guidebooks. Don’t become an unwelcome statistic by getting lost, and ensure you have all the essential navigation devices appropriate for your destination.
6. Water Storage Solutions
You may have a charged-up smartphone, but water is the elixir of life. Accessing adequate water can be challenging when you’re travelling remotely so think carefully about how to maintain a regular supply of fresh drinking water.
Collapsible water containers to store your water and a means to purify it are two off-grid camping gear. Remember that no matter how fresh and inviting a source of water looks, it may have some form of contamination.
You should carry a filtration system and drink several litres of water on hot days to stay sufficiently hydrated.
7. Shelter
Choose your tent, mats and tarps carefully so they really will shelter you in all conditions. If you’re travelling in a crocodile zone, consider a roof-top tent and never pitch less than 50 metres from the water’s edge.
The key drivers when you select your tent should be durability, along with the speed and ease of putting it up and taking it down.
8. Tools & Supplies
Nothing beats a good quality all-in-one multi-tool that allows you to pack lighter. A reliable and powerful flashlight is also an essential component of off-grid camping gear.
Never start fires near dry, long grasses or by using fuel; abide by local rules and regulations and always ensure you’ve extinguished your fire before turning in for the night. As a rule of thumb, you should only ever make a fire for warmth or cooking.
Go for practical multi-purpose eating utensils and plenty of air-tight containers. Take cleaning products that double up for a variety of purposes.
9. Emergency Kit
You should ensure you have an up-to-date first aid kit, a whistle to attract attention, and even flares if you plan to be far from civilisation. Always let someone know about your intended route. Take plenty of sun protection.
10. Be Weather Aware
Sudden changes in the weather can mean dangerous weather systems take you by surprise. Always read long-term forecasts and keep abreast of the likely weather conditions where you’re heading. Restrictions may be in place that will require you to change your plans at short notice. You can never check the weather forecast too often!
Your Off-Grid Camping Essentials Sorted!
For the smoothest camping adventure, it pays to invest in one of the best portable power stations from MaxWatt. Throw in a set or two of MaxWatt portable solar panels for camping, and you’re good to go. Make MaxWatt your first port of call for your primary off-grid camping gear essentials.
Tags: camping, camping generator, portable power station