Looking for the best portable power station? Jackery has various options to meet the needs of dry camping adventures. If you’re new to this activity, dry camping, which is also called boondocking or backcountry camping, is a great way to get away from technology and spend time in nature.
However, to ensure your connectivity, safety, and comfort on your trip, we suggest looking into the best portable power station in Canada to add to your camping essentials. Luckily for you, we’ve broken it all down in this article.
Table of Contents
The Basics of Dry Camping
If you’re planning an RV or van trip across Canada and want to camp without connection or service, dry camping is the way to go. However, dry camping requires self-sufficiency, as you won’t have access to traditional amenities like electricity, running water, or dump stations. Before heading out, ensure you have these essential items:
1. An RV or Van
When you go on dry camping adventures, your vehicle will act as your primary shelter. It is important to make sure that it has adequate insulation, storage for your supplies, and space for a portable power supply such as a power station.
2. Food
Bring meals that are easy to prepare and do not require refrigeration for your journey. Bring lightweight cookware and portable cooking equipment, such as a camp stove and foldable dishes, while you are camping.
3. Water
Bring enough water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning while you travel. The use of water containers that can be collapsed is an excellent approach to save space.
4. Emergency Supplies
Always be sure to bring along a first aid kit, navigational equipment, flashlights, additional batteries, and clothing that is suited for the weather.
5. Portable Power station
A portable power station is a vital piece of equipment for lighting LED lights, charging electronic gadgets, operating small appliances, and ensuring that you are comfortable while you are on the road. If you don’t currently have a station, you may be wondering which is the best portable power station in the industry. Let’s take a look.
What to Look for When Choosing a Portable Power Station
In order to choose the best portable power station for dry camping, it’s important to give serious consideration to your power requirements, portability, and other features. Here are a few things to look for when trying to find the best portable power station:
Battery Capacity
Watt-hours, also known as “Wh”, are the units used to measure battery capacity, which is what decides how long your power station can keep your gadgets running. Here’s a breakdown:
- 500Wh: Ideal for charging phones, laptops, and small devices or gadgets.
- 1000Wh-2000Wh: Suitable for powering small appliances like kettles, mini-fridges and CPAP machines.
- 2000Wh and Above: Perfect for running multiple devices and larger appliances, such as microwaves, portable stoves or portable heaters.
Power Output
Watts, commonly referred to as “W”, are the units of measurement for output power, which determines which devices your power station is able to operate. Make sure that the output of the station is equal to or greater than the wattage requirements of your equipment. In order to do this, you should look for outlets that can accommodate numerous devices, including AC outlets, USB ports, and DC carports.
Portability
Another important factor when trying to find the best portable power station is portability. Both weight and size are important considerations. Compact power stations are easier to transport and store in smaller locations, making them ideal for dry camping.
Charging Methods
Some of the best portable power station options will support a variety of charging methods, such as the following:
- Solar Charging Station: These solar power stations use solar panels for renewable energy.
- Wall Outlets: These stations have quick recharging at home or RV parks.
- Car Charging: These stations are convenient for on-the-go top-ups.
Durability
Lastly, in order to choose the best portable power station, you should make sure that it is as durable as possible. Make certain that the power station is of the highest quality and built to resist the elements of the outdoors, such as rain, dust or debris.
By keeping an eye out for all of these small but important details, you’ll be able to find the best portable power station suitable for your dry camping needs. This will ultimately provide you with the appropriate balance between capacity, portability, and functionality. All that being said, you may now be wondering what the top picks are in the industry. Let us introduce Jackery.
Top Picks for Solar Generators
Jackery is a trusted name in portable power solutions, offering high-quality generator and solar power tailored to the needs of campers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are three of their best portable power stations for dry camping:
Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus
During extended dry camping journeys, individuals who are looking for maximum energy capacity and versatility will find the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus to be a powerhouse. Here are its key features:
Specifications:
- Battery Capacity: 5040Wh.
- Output Power: 7.2-14.4kW.
- Ports: 12 output ports including AC button, USB-A, USB-C, Cigarette Lighter Port, DC button and more.
Advantages of Dry Camping:
- Silent Operation: In contrast to conventional generators, it features an optimized CTB structure, equipped with wheels and a pull handle, maintaining noise-free.
- Dual Voltage: This station has a 120V/240V dual voltage that enhances compatibility, supporting more loads like water pumps, stoves, ACs, RVs, etc.
- Durability: This station is built to support whole-home devices. It has a long-lasting battery and a robust construction.
The Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus is the best portable power station to consider if you are in need of a dependable backup for your van or RV, allowing you to operate many appliances at the same time.
Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro
Next on our list is the Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro. Since it finds the optimal mix between power and mobility, this station is an excellent choice for a wide variety of dry camping setups.
Specifications:
- Battery Capacity: 3024Wh.
- Output Power: 3000W.
- Charging Options: Fully solar charged in 6-7.5 hours with 6 Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels and wall charged in 2.4 hours with an AC adapter.
- Portability: Compact design with pull rod and double wheels for easy transport.
Advantages of Dry Camping:
- Weather Capacity: It is designed to function in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius, making it acceptable for use throughout the winter months in Canada.
- Silent: This station has a unique quiet system, only a 30db noise level.
- Multi-Device Charging: In addition to providing power to important devices such as lighting, phones, and laptops, it has multi-device charging that also allows for the operation of smaller camping equipment.
The Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro is the best portable power station for individuals who are looking for a generator that offers a favourable combination of power, portability, and performance. It’s also a great option for those who are dry camping in the cold Canadian weather.
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
If you are looking for a dependable energy station without having an excessive amount of capacity, the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is an option that is both versatile and cost-effective. Here are some features:
Specifications:
- Battery Capacity: 2042Wh.
- High Power Output: Maximum 6,000W power in parallel connection and 120/240V expandable voltage.
- Solar Compatibility: Supports multiple solar panels for off-grid charging.
Advantages of Dry Camping:
- Leaping Performance: Powers heavy-duty devices up to 6000W, making it the perfect addition to your dry camping equipment.
- Quiet Operation: The quiet operation is ideal for powering small appliances without causing any interruptions.
- Compact Design: This station is great for shorter camping vacations or for smaller RVs and vans due to its compact design, which makes it easy to store and move.
The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is the best portable power station to consider if you are looking for a portable power station in Canada that is both economical and effective.
How to Maximize Your Portable Power Station’s Efficiency
Now that we’ve gone over some of the best portable power station options let’s highlight how you can maximize your efficiency. Utilizing your power plant effectively is essential to getting the most out of your device. That said, here are some essential pointers to keep in mind:
Maximize Usage Time and Battery Life
Controlling battery usage is essential if you want your portable power station to last your entire camping trip. To increase its runtime, follow these steps:
- Track Power Usage: Pay attention to how much power your gadgets are using. Many power plants have screens that show how much energy is being used and how full the batteries are. Use what you’ve learned to keep your batteries from overheating or dying for no reason.
- Recharge Wisely: To optimize energy use, if you’re using a solar charging station, charge it during the hours of most sunlight. To avoid long-term deterioration, keep the battery from falling below 20%.
- Switch Off Unused Devices: To save electricity, unplug any equipment or gadgets that are not in use. Over time, even standby modes have the potential to deplete the battery.
- Store Properly: Battery efficiency may be impacted by extreme temperatures. For best results, keep the station in a temperature-controlled or shaded environment.
Prioritize Device Charging
You don’t need to charge every device at once when the battery is low. Prioritizing necessary devices will boost your power plant’s usefulness. Some things to keep in mind are:
- Important Equipment First: When camping, it’s important to prioritize your phones, medical equipment and lights first since these are essential for safety and direction.
- Stagger Charging: Use solar panels to recharge high-power items, such as fans or portable refrigerators, during the day. Smaller devices, such as cameras or phones, can be charged overnight.
- Use Low-Power Modes: For gadgets like phones or tablets, choose the power-saving settings to extend their battery life and reduce the energy required from your power station.
Use Accessories to Increase Functionality
Purchasing additional accessories can greatly increase your portable power station’s functionality and adaptability. Consider the following add-ons:
- Solar Panels: At Jackery, they offer high-quality and compatible solar panels that can be connected to your power station. With this configuration, you can recharge throughout the day without depending on conventional outlets. For camping, foldable panels are very practical.
- Extension Cables: Keep the power station in a sheltered or shaded location and use extension cables to align solar panels in the best possible sunlight.
- Battery Expansion Packs: To boost overall capacity for longer journeys, many power plants, such as Jackery models, provide extendable battery packs.
- Weather Protection: To shield your station from the elements, get a dustproof or waterproof cover.
Additional Tips for Maximum Efficiency
Prior to your dry camping trip, calculate how much energy you’ll require and pick a power plant that can accommodate all of your equipment. In addition to this, try to use energy-efficient devices such as LED lights or low-wattage appliances. They consume less power, allowing your station to run longer.
Always maintain the cleanliness of your power plant and check connections on a frequent basis. Power loss or decreased efficiency can result from dust or loose connections. And finally, create a charging schedule to rotate devices efficiently, ensuring all critical gadgets remain powered without overloading the station.
Conclusion
Dry camping in Canada provides an unmatched experience, allowing you to appreciate the freedom of the open road and connect with nature. However, having a steady power supply is crucial for comfort, convenience, and safety.
From powering necessary devices to operating appliances, a dependable portable power station, such as those offered by Jackery, guarantees that you’re ready for anything during your dry camping trip.
Take the first step toward a more comfortable dry camping experience by investing in the best portable power station in Canada at Jackery.
Need help finding which one would work best for you? Reach out to Jackery’s experts by giving a call or by filling out a contact form. They can’t wait to help you enhance your dry camping experience!
