Putting solar panels on your RV is a great way to reduce the need for shore power and to avoid using your generator. Waking up in the bright calm of the desert and making coffee and toast in the deep quiet of nature is one of the most relaxing ways to start the day.
In addition to a solar power system for the necessaries of your rig, like food prep and using the computer, why not invest in solo solar products that have their own panel and don't need to draw off your house batteries?
Here are 5 solar-powered products that can make your RVing even more comfortable.
1) Solar Lanterns for Ambient or Task Lighting
You can start your solar light collection simply and small. An easy addition to your home is a single solar lantern in a colored glass globe that can serve as a nightlight. Any middle of the night bathroom run will be safer and more comfortable with a pretty nightlight to guide your way.
You can also invest in a string of solar garden lights to help you wind down at the end of the day. Part of RVing is getting back to nature. If you're trying to sleep with the sun but have a hard time winding down in the evening, use some pretty twinkly lights to move from sunlight to overhead light to twinkle lights right before bed.
Individual garden lights can also be used outside your RV. If you're going to be camped in a particular spot for a long stretch, consider adding a couple of staked garden lights in a particular color around your rig. If you aren't allowed to put them in the ground, put out a bucket of sand and put the garden lights in the bucket. This can be a great way to draw the family back to the RV as the sun goes down.
Finally, make sure you pick up a couple of inflatable Luci lights. These little solar lanterns offer multiple settings so you can enjoy task lighting after dark. Many have a hook, so you can hang one just where you need it, such as in the engine compartment if you're fixing a problem or in the RV bath for anyone who needs a nightlight.
2) Solar Motion Detector Lights
Boost the security around your RV with solar motion detector lights. You can easily find single self-contained motion detector lights that can either be mounted to your RV,or hung off it at opposite corners when you get to your campsite.
While the one-part units will probably survive road vibrations, you might consider modifying the light to include a hook and just hanging it on your RV when you get to your destination. A unit that has a light with the solar panel built into the top could be an ideal tool for boondocking or if you're at a new RV park.
Setting up your rig with a solar motion detector will likely scare off any critter, two or four-footed, who intends to cause problems. However, depending on your location it may be a good idea to know what's outside before you open the door. If you hear a noise, you can check the cameras to know if your surprise visitor is a risk to you, your family or your pet.
In these cases, consider investing in solar-powered security cameras. Again, you will likely need to rig up a way to hang these when you get to your destination. However, once you sync them to your laptop and phone, you will be able to quickly get them mounted, powering up and providing you with the data you need to feel safe when it's time to greet the morning.
While many of us like to camp for the peace and quiet, there is a time to turn up the tunes as well! Consider adding a set of solar bluetooth speakers to your solar array.
The majority of these units are shockproof. You'll also want one that's waterproof if you're planning to set it out an your campsite. Thanks to their durability, you can take one with you on a hike to a gorgeous vista and connect your favorite tune with your favorite bit of scenery.
You'll get a lot of hours out of your solar bluetooth charge, but it's a good idea to invest in a portable solar power bank as well. Most of the items that have their own solar power source can also be plugged in if their battery gets low. While you're setting out your solar array, having a portable power bank on the table, the rock or the picnic blanket is a great use of space and dollars. Many portable power banks come with foldable solar panels, so you can easily load them in a backpack before you head to the lake, the hiking trail or just to your favorite chair. You can set out your solar panels, kick back in the shade, and relax.
Depending on the heat you're facing and the amount of space you have, you can put solar fans to use in a giant class A to a snug class B, or even a tent. You can get a pedestal fan to move the air through your RV, or invest in a simple camping fan that even comes with a flashlight.
For RV travelers who struggle with odor from the black tank, check out the solar plumbing vent fan from Ultra Fab. You can enjoy fresh, clean air, reduced moisture and no stink in your RV between tank dumps. The fan is covered by the solar panel and vents out the sides of the fan housing, so no risk of water leaks in your roof, and the installation takes only 5 screws.
No matter your RVing goals, having single and simple solar products that you can charge individually will make life a little sweeter. From ambient to task light, fans to cool and deodorize your rig, speakers for your favorite tunes, and extra security thanks to cameras and motion detector lights are all simple to install or hang when you get to your destination. Peace of mind, comfort and pleasure, all thanks to sunlight. Safe travels!
About the Author:
Aaron Hardy is a solar blogger and former electricity consultant who loves finding new ways to use consumer-grade renewable energy gear. You can find his writing on his website, AxionPower.com.
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