Solar Camping

Improvements in thin film solar technology suggest that camping out will soon mean solar camping.

Solar Resources Types of Solar Power

The general market for thin film solar products is predicted to grow, as scientists discover more efficient semiconductor materials to place on less costly and lightweight bases. Many traditional camping products are well suited to thin film solar forms.

The number of solar camping products on the market today continues to grow as entrepreneurs explore creative ways to match solar power capabilities with consumer demand. One stop at the local outdoors store, or a quick browse through their catalogue, shows the range of solar camping products on the market today.

Solar backpacks, for example, are marketed to the generations raised on the personal electronic devices such as cell phones, digital cameras and music players. Any hiker can strap on a backpack with a solar panel sewn on the back, plug a hand held device into the built-in battery charger, and be assured the device will start up on demand. Those types of assurances provide appealing communication and entertainment opportunities to all generations of hikers.

The extended stay camping equipment market also offers solar products that compete with the traditional non-solar alternatives. Solar tents with built-in lights provide a different perspective on night camping for campers use to seeing the night through the light of kerosene lamps, flashlights or campfires.

Campsite cooking enthusiasts will be happy to discover that solar cookers sit on shelves next to the gas stoves, vying for consumer attention. Innovations in solar oven technology mean that campers can catch fish in the morning, place them in the solar cooker, and have ample time in the afternoon for swimming or hiking. Upon return, the fish will be cooked, wanting only for the final garnishes.

While some people think of camping as roughing it, an experience in opposition to indoor living, others have no problem mixing their traditional indoor pleasures with their outdoor activities. Solar powered televisions, radios, showers and pest control products are a few of the more popular products offered for campers who enjoy a touch of home at their camp site.

Solar camping reaches it high point with a discussion of the latest solar battery chargers on the market today. All are lightweight, portable and work with most of the common twelve volt electric products. The chargers, up to a 60 watt capacity, can be purchased singularly, or combined, to create a power source for running small appliances such as laptop computers, coolers (semi-refrigerators), heaters or fans. It's close to a zero emissions camping experience, that includes many home amenities.

© 2007. Patricia A. Michaels