Best Portable Power Station For Van Life

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1. Introduction to Solar Generator/Portable Power Station

What is a solar generator? I had a solar generator for my van for over 3 years before I had an actual solar panel to charge it with. Feel free to read about my experience with the Jackery 500.

A solar generator is a device that converts solar energy into electrical energy, which can be used to power various electrical devices and appliances. Unlike traditional generators that run on fossil fuels, solar generators use photovoltaic (PV) panels to collect energy from the sun. The great thing is that’s not the only way you can charge them, that turns your solar generator into a portable power bank that you can recharge using a regular AC plug-in, your Car’s cigarette lighter port, or solar panels.

How a Solar Generator Works

The main components of a solar generator can include the solar panels(but you can charge it with an AC adapter if you have access to ‘the grid’), a charge controller, a battery bank, and an inverter. The solar panels collect energy from the sun and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity, which is then sent to the charge controller. The charge controller regulates the flow of electricity to the battery bank, which stores the energy until it is needed. The inverter then converts the DC electricity from the battery bank into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used to power appliances and devices.

Solar generators are often used in remote locations where there is no access to the power grid or where traditional generators are impractical or impossible to use. They are also popular for emergency backup power during power outages. Solar generators are generally considered to be clean and environmentally friendly, as they do not produce any emissions or noise pollution. They are the perfect power source for van life because they are compact and totally portable. YOu can use portable solar panels or rigid solar panels. Read my blog post about choosing solar for your RV.

However, it’s important to note that solar generators are not always suitable for every situation. They can be expensive to purchase and may not be able to provide enough power for high-demand appliances, such as air conditioners or refrigerators. Additionally, they rely on the availability of sunlight, which means they may not be as reliable during periods of low sunlight or bad weather. It’s important to notice that some appliances require surge power to start up and that can be a big draw for a portable power station.

Why Is a Solar Generator Better Than a Conventional Generator?

Solar generators have several advantages over conventional generators:

1. Environmentally Friendly: Solar generators produce electricity without emitting any harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases into the environment, making them a much cleaner and more environmentally friendly option than conventional generators.
2. Noise Pollution: Conventional generators are often loud and noisy, which can be a disturbance to neighbors and wildlife. In contrast, solar generators are silent, producing no noise pollution.
3. Fuel Costs: Conventional generators require fuel to operate, which can be expensive, especially during power outages when fuel prices tend to rise. Solar generators do not require any fuel, as they rely solely on sunlight.
4. Maintenance Costs: Conventional generators require regular maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, which can be costly over time. Solar generators, on the other hand, require very little maintenance, as they have no moving parts and are not subject to wear and tear.
5. Long-term Cost Savings: Although solar generators may have a higher initial cost than conventional generators, they can save money in the long term by eliminating fuel and maintenance costs.
6. Electric vehicles: recently winter storms shut down the highway in Vancouver Canada, there were many electric vehicles stranded on the side of the road. It would be a bit embarassing to use a gas powered generator to charge your E car, but having one of these in your trunk makes a boat load of sense to me!!

Overall, solar generators provide a clean, reliable, and cost-effective alternative to conventional generators, making them a great option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and lower their energy costs.

1.1 Importance of Power For Nomad Life

Power is a luxury when living the off grid nomadic life. It’s something you could learn to live without ,but with a solar generator you can have the luxury while using little space, the initial investment can be a little high, but for a luxury item, that’s to be expected. I’d rather pay a bit more for something that is the sized of a backpack and packs enough power to airfry my chicken wings while charging my laptop so I can eat and work on tomorrows blog post under the stars on the beach in mexico. Just saying, seems like a no brainer. For us van lifers we are short on space a solar generator has a pretty small foot print and doesn’t require a jerry can to go with it. If you have a solar panel or a gym membeship you can recharge almost anywhere almost any time.

1.2 Understanding The “Solar Generator” Basics

There are so many different van life power options these days it’s important to keep in mind that when discussing solar generators and what might be the best portable power station for van life or RV life we look at the following main points of interest:

1. Outputs: Solar generators can have various output options, such as AC outlets, USB ports, and DC outlets. These outputs allow you to charge and power different devices and appliances, such as phones, laptops, lights, and small appliances. When choosing a solar generator, it’s essential to consider the type and number of outputs it has and whether they meet your needs.
2. Charging Time: The charging time of a solar generator depends on the size of the battery bank, the wattage of the solar panels, and the intensity of the sunlight. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to fully charge a solar generator. It’s essential to consider the charging time when choosing a solar generator, especially if you plan to use it for emergency backup power.
3. Price: Solar generators can vary widely in price, depending on their size, capacity, and features. Generally, larger and more powerful solar generators are more expensive than smaller and less powerful ones. When choosing a solar generator, it’s essential to consider the price and ensure that it fits within your budget.
4. Watts: The wattage of a solar generator determines how much power it can produce and how many devices it can power at once. The higher the wattage, the more devices it can power simultaneously. It’s essential to choose a solar generator with enough wattage to meet your power needs.
5. AC Inverter Rating: The AC inverter rating of a solar generator determines the maximum amount of AC power it can output at any given time. It’s important to choose a solar generator with an AC inverter rating that is sufficient to power your devices and appliances.
6. Surge Power: Surge power refers to the additional power a solar generator can provide for a short period to start devices with high startup power requirements, such as refrigerators or air conditioners. It’s essential to choose a solar generator with enough surge power to start the devices you plan to use.
7. AC Input Rating: The AC input rating of a solar generator determines the maximum amount of power it can accept from an external power source, such as a wall outlet or a car charger. It’s important to choose a solar generator with an AC input rating that is sufficient to charge the battery bank quickly.
8. PV Output Rating: The PV output rating of a solar generator determines the maximum amount of power it can accept from solar panels. It’s essential to choose a solar generator with a PV output rating that is sufficient to charge the battery bank efficiently.
9. Life Cycle: The life cycle of a solar generator refers to the number of charge and discharge cycles the battery can endure before its capacity starts to degrade. It’s important to choose a solar generator with a high life cycle, as this can determine its long-term reliability and lifespan.

You can use this link to a solar calculator from Renogy.

2. Criteria For Choosing the Best Portable Power station for Off Grid Living

When choosing the best solar generator for van life, here are some criteria to consider:

1. Capacity: Consider the amount of power you need for your van life setup. This can be determined by the number of devices you plan to power and how often you use them. Look for a solar generator with a battery capacity that can meet your needs. Check out this handy calculator from Renogy that will help you calculate your power needs.
2. Portability: Whichever van life power options you choose, it should be compact, lightweight, and easy to carry around. You’ll want something that can fit easily in your van and can be moved around as needed.
3. Solar Panel Compatibility: Look for a solar generator that is compatible with a range of solar panels. This will allow you to add additional solar panels to your setup and maximize your charging capacity.
4. Charge Time: Consider the charging time of the solar generator. Look for a solar generator that can be charged quickly and efficiently, either via solar panels or an AC wall outlet. The only thing I don’t love about my Jackery is it’s charge time, but they make a better version now.
5. Outputs: Consider the types and number of outputs the solar generator has. You’ll want a solar generator with enough outlets to power all of your devices and appliances.
6. Price: Consider your budget and look for a solar generator that offers the best value for your money. Remember that a higher-priced solar generator may offer more features and a longer lifespan.
7. Durability: Look for a solar generator that is built to withstand the rigors of van life, including bumps, vibrations, and temperature changes.
8. Brand Reputation: Consider the reputation of the brand and read reviews from other van lifers to ensure that the solar generator you choose is reliable and meets their needs. This is exactly why I chose the Jackery 500W, it was the most talked about device in 2020 when I purchased mine. Now, I would buy one that charges faster. I was bringing mine in to work with me to charge and it would take over 6 hours from a 50% depleted charge.

The Top 8 Portable Power Stations

1. Renogy Portable Power Station 1000

This unit is the best price for its features. If you have used the power calculator and this will suit your needs I would recommend this unit. If I were in the market for a new power station I would pick this one. I chose this as the best portable power station for van life or rv life or tiny home life based on the price, the power it delivers, and it’s size and weight.

【Ultra-Safe Portable Power】 Constructed of SGCC steel for certificated impact-resistance and double fans, the  portable power station camping with integrated exclusive cooling system can reduce thermal stress 180 times faster than average portable power stations. The EV-grade BMS provides real-time temperature and voltage monitoring for safe operation and battery lifespan up to 10 years.

【7 x Fast Recharge】 Recharge the portable power station from 0% to 80% using an AC input in only 1 hour with super-fast iTurbo technology. With iTurbo, renogy PHX500 solar generator recharges 7 times faster than conventional power station. That’s ideal when you need portable power for home backup, outdoor camping,family emergency.

【Intelligent BMS Protection And Pure Sine Wave】 The solar power generator features industry-leading lifepo4 battery cells that meat UL safety standards to deliver 3000 cycles, ultra safety and reliability. The camping power station produces 6 Pure Sine AC outlets that deliver stable and safe 1500W power. With built-in advanced BMS, you can easily knows its auto-regulating to keep you safe with reverse polarity,high/low tempurature,short circuit,undervoltage,overvoltage and overcurrent protection. 

【Intelligent BMS Protection And Pure Sine Wave】 The solar power generator features industry-leading lifepo4 battery cells that meat UL safety standards to deliver 3000 cycles, ultra safety and reliability. The camping power station produces 6 Pure Sine AC outlets that deliver stable and safe 1500W power. With built-in advanced BMS, you can easily knows its auto-regulating to keep you safe with reverse polarity,high/low tempurature,short circuit,undervoltage,overvoltage and overcurrent protection.

【1500W Powerful AC Output】 The Renogy solar generator for camping delivers a whopping 2100W of power to run up to 12 devices in power outages without the noise or exhaust from fuel-based generators. With 6 AC outlets, a 1500W rated output, and iBoost mode*, this portable generator for camping can efficiently handle power-hungry appliances with loads up to 3000W. *iBoost mode allows Renogy 1000 to run appliances rated up to 3000W at a lower power without causing an electrical overload.

【Clean, Fast Solar Recharging】 The solar power station 1000wh is compatible with renogy eflex 220W portable solar panel, getting recharged to 80% in 2.5 hours. The integrated MPPT algorithm optimizes solar energy generation efficiency to operate at its max power point, making them ideal portable power kits for tent camping, RV overland journey and more.

【Readily Available Emergency Power】 With automatic Standby Power Supply (SPS) mode, you can switch the power of your computer, Wi-Fi routers, and other devices from an AC wall outlet to this solar powered generator in less than 20 milliseconds, helping you stay in business through unexpected power outages.

Renogy Power Station 1000

Watts	1500
AC Inverter Rating	1500w
Input RAting	AC 998W, DC 90V to 140V
Solar Input	400W
Number of Outputs	2xUSB-A, USB-A fast charge, 2x Why would youUSB-C, CIG port, 6 AC outlet
Charging Time	AC 80% in 1hr, Solar
Surge Power	3000W
Life Cycle	3000 to 80% capacity
Weight	41lbs
Warranty	5 years
Discount Code on She Said It email List?	YES.
Price at time of writing article.	949.00

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2. Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro

The Portable Power Station Explorer 2000 Pro delivers enormous charging capacity (2,160Wh) powering all your required appliances including hot plates, blenders, air conditioners and more. It’s also ideal to use for outdoor off-grid activities (camping or RV) & home emergency use. The only negatives on my list are that the solar charge connecting cord is sold separately and it only has 1000 lifecycles.

• The power station can be fully charged with 6 SolarSaga 200W solar panels in only under 2.5 hours, and in just 2 hours via AC wall outlet. This charging experience allows you to charge away in no time while off the grid.
• The first-rate lithium battery houses two chips for dual battery protection and four temperature core detectors, guaranteeing safe and reliable charging.
• The Explorer 2000 PRO delivers under 53DB of charging ensuring quiet and peaceful charging.
• The portable power station supports pass-through charging. This allows you to charge your power station, with essential devices still plugged in, meaning you can charge on the go quickly and conveniently.
• 5-Year Warranty: A 3-year warranty on regular purchases, plus an additional 2-year extension on your warranty when ordering from their Official Website.

Watts	2160 Wh (43.2V 50Ah)
AC Inverter Rating	2000W
AC Input RAting	1800W
Number of Outputs	1xUSB-A quick charge, 1xUSB-c 12V/10 Car Port 3xAC
Charging Time	AC 2Hours, 200W solar 7.5 Hours, 12Vcar outlet 24hours
Surge Power	4400W
Life Cycle	1000 to 80%+Capacity
Use while charging?	Yes
Weight	43lbs
Warranty	3 years plus 2 if buying from Jackery link below
Discount Code on She Said It email List?	YES
Price at time of writing article.	2099.00

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3. Bluetti AC200P, 2000W

The Bluetti AC200P Power Station is a high-capacity portable power station designed to provide reliable power on-the-go. It has a capacity of 2000Wh (watt-hours), which is equivalent to 546,000mAh (milliamp-hours) at 3.7 volts, making it one of the most powerful portable power stations on the market.

The AC200P features a variety of input and output ports, including:

• Six AC outlets: capable of delivering up to 2000W of continuous power and a surge power of 4800W.
• One 12V/25A carport: for charging your car accessories.
• Two USB-A ports: capable of delivering up to 2.4A of power to charge your phones and tablets.
• Two USB-C ports: capable of delivering up to 60W of power to charge your laptops, cameras, and other USB-C devices.
• One DC output port: capable of delivering up to 13A of power to power your DC devices.

The Bluetti AC200P also comes with a built-in LCD screen that displays real-time information about the battery capacity, input/output power, and charging status. The power station can be charged using multiple methods, including solar panels (up to 700W), AC wall outlet (up to 400W), and carport (up to 200W).

Overall, the Bluetti AC200P is a powerful and versatile portable power station that can provide reliable power on-the-go for all your electronic devices and appliances. I like the wireless charging capability and that it’s lightweight, but the slower charge time is a negative for me.

Watts	2000W
AC Inverter Rating	2000W
AC Input RAting	400W
Number of Outputs	17: 4xUSB-A, 1xUSB-C, 12V/25A(RV outlet), 12V/10A(car outlet) 2x12V/3A 6xAC
Bonus	2x 15W wireless charging Pad
Charging Time	AC 5-6 hours, 700W solar 3-4hours
Surge Power	4800W
Life Cycle	3500 to 80%
Use while charging?	not recommended
Weight	60lbs
Warranty	4 years
Discount Code on She Said It email List?	YES.
Price at time of writing article.	2,299.00

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4. Anker PowerHouse 1500W

Anker is a slightly less well-known brand making van life power options. This company is going to do well if they continue to put out a good quality product at a decent price point. Every time I read this I think I should have put them at number 1 actually.

• Long-Lasting Portable Power Station With a 10-Year Lifespan: With our proprietary long-lasting technology InfiniPower™, combined with LiFePO4 batteries, ultra-durable electronic components, a smart temperature control system that monitors temperature up to 100 times per second, and impact-resistant structural design, Anker 757 PowerHouse is built to last over a decade, even with everyday use.
• 5-Year Full-Device Warranty: Instead of the average 2 years, Anker 757 Portable Power Station is designed to reliably power your devices every day for 10 years. Additionally, it offers a superior 5-year full-device warranty for a guaranteed, worry-free experience.
• Exceptionally Fast Recharge: Instead of taking 5.6 hours, recharge to 80% in just 1 hour with our industry-leading technology, HyperFlash.
• 13 Ports for All: The power station has all the ports you need to charge your devices and appliances. It is equipped with 6 AC ports, 4 USB-A ports, 2 USB-C ports, and a car outlet. With a fast-charging 100W USB-C port, get rid of bulky adapters and charge your laptop at fast speeds via a single cable.
• Ultra-Powerful Capacity: With a 1229Wh capacity and 1500 wattage, this PowerHouse is an ideal solution to power all your essential devices and appliances during a trip, such as an electric grill, coffee maker, refrigerator, and more.
• What You Get: Anker 757 Portable Power Station (PowerHouse 1229Wh), 3 types of charging cable (AC charging cable, car charging cable, solar charging cable), welcome guide, our worry-free 5-year warranty, and friendly customer service.

Watts	1229Wh
AC Inverter Rating	1500W
AC Input Rating Solar Input	1000W 300W max
Number of Outputs	13 ports: 4xUSB-A, 2xUSB-C Car outlet, 6xAC
Charging Time	1Hour
Surge Power	2400
Life Cycle	3000
Warranty	5 years
Weight	43.9lbs
Discount Code on She Said It email List?	YES.
Price at time of writing article.	1399.

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5. Rockpals 1300W

• Another relative newcomer to the scene, Rockpals’ Most Powerful Solar Generator Upgraded in 2022. Listed as Rockpals’ most powerful generator rating 1300W(1254Wh, Surge 2000W), Rockpals 1300W could also charge high-power devices such as portable refrigerator and coffee maker, perfect for camping, van, and other off-grid and outdoor activities and emergency use for 3-5 days, besides low-power devices such as mobile phones and laptops. The generator also has a 12V regulated voltage to keep its output voltage steady, perfect for CPAP users.
• Built-to-Last LifePO4 Battery Generator, The Rockpals 1300W power station adopts brand-new LiFePO4 batteries lasting up to 2000 Cycles at 80% depth of discharge, providing at least 5 times longer lifespan, higher energy density, more stable performance, and greater output than other types of batteries or second-hand batteries. Its built-in smart BMS protects your generator from over-charge/discharge, over-current, short circuits, and over-heat for increased performance and longer lifespan.
• 【Support up to 10 Devices Simultaneously】Rockpals 1300W portable power station packs all necessary outputs, able to power 10 devices simultaneously and meets 96% of your outdoor electricity needs: 3x110V AC ports, 2xDC ports(5.5mm), 1x12V car charging port, 2xfast-charge USB-A QC ports, 1xUSB-A 3.1 port, 1xUSB Type-C PD output ports. The generator supports pass-through charge(DC and USB ports) for extended discharge time and has clear a LCD display with input, output wattage and battery level.
• 【5 Charging Methods, Solar Generator with Quick-Charging Anderson Port】This outdoor generator provides 5 charging methods with faster charging: 1. PV solar charging with Anderson port(12-26V, 250W Max, Anderson Cable Included) provides faster solar charging for about 5 hours with built-in MPPT technology; 2. Wall socket: DC(160W Max) & PD(60W Max) simultaneously for about 6 hours; 3. DC charging for about 8 hours; 4. PD(60W Max) for 20 hours 5. Car port about 15-16 hours.
• 【Top Choice Generator to Escape from City】Compared to oil-powered generators, this battery and solar-generated power station is more portable, cost-saving and environmental-friendly at less than $0.8/watt. We offer ROCKPALS fans a 24-month quality guarantee and 24-hour professional customer service. The power station weighs 39.0 lbs (17.1 x 9.7 x 10.2 inches) and you will get: 1* ROCKPALS 1300 Portable Power Station, 1*Anderson Cable, 1* AC Adapter, 1* Car Charging Cable, and 1* User Guide.

Rockpals 1300W

Watts	1300W
AC Inverter Rating	1254Ah
AC Input RAting	160W
Number of Outputs	1xUSB-A, 1xUSB-A quick charge 1xUSB-C, Car Charge 12V/10A 3xAC
Charging Time	AC 6hours, Solar 250W 5hours
Surge Power	2000
Use while charging?	USB and 12V only
Life Cycle	2000 to 80%
Weight	39Lbs
Discount Code on She Said It email List?	YES.
Price at time of writing article.	1995.98

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6. Growatt Infinity 1500

Another brand worth mentioning. They are getting great reviews and are at a good price point. The significant drawback is they only last 800 charging cycles and only have 24 month warranty.

• 1512Wh Capacity & 2000W Output – Power a wider array of high-power appliances and devices.
• Wall Charge in 2 Hours – Wall charge from 0%-80% in 1 hour; charge from 0-100% in 2 hours.
• Solar Charge in 2.5 Hours – Support up to 800W solar input for outdoor charging.
• 12 Diverse Outlets – Up to 12 output ports to power all of your devices simultaneously.
• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) – Reliable 24/7 backup power for your sensitive power needs.
• Smart APP Control – Monitor, control, upgrade firmware, and easily access customer support.

Growatt Infinity 1500

Watts	1512Wh
AC Inverter Rating	2000W
AC Input Rating	100-120Vac
Number of Outputs	2xUSB-A, 2xUSB-A quick charge 2xUSB-C, Cig 13.5V/10A 4x AC
Bonus	Wireless charging pad
Charging Time	AC 1hour to 80%, Solar 800W 2hours
Surge Power	4000w
Use while charging?	yes
Life Cycle	800 to 60%
Weight	36.4lbs
Warranty	24months
Discount Code on She Said It email List?	YES
Price at time of writing article.	1599.

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7. Goal Zero – Yetti 1500X

This is low on my list becuase of the time taken to charge. If you’re van life and you want to charge your station while having a coffee or using the gym, this length of charge is not optimal. If fast charging isn’t the most important feature for you, this device is pretty great.

TAKE YOUR WALL OUTLET ANYWHERE
Increased 2000W AC (3500W Surge) inverter allows you to run power-hungry devices and appliances with confidence. Our new industry-leading inverter can handle surges from power tools, medical devices, and home appliances, including full-size refrigerators.

VERSATILE PORT OPTIONS
Power a wide range of devices with seven different port options including fast-charging 60W USB-C Power Delivery, multiple USB-A ports, regulated 12V, and two 120V AC ports.

EXPERIENCE UNLIMITED POWER
Charge the Yeti 1500X from the sun with our portable solar panels while away from the grid and keep it topped off from a wall outlet when you’re home. Integrated MPPT charge controller ensures you’re getting the most efficient solar charge possible.

POWER IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND
Monitor, control, and optimize your power usage from anywhere with Yeti App 3.0. Features remote control of power in/out, real-time power consumption notifications, and charging profiles to optimize your battery life.

Goal Zero -Yetti 1500X

Watts	1516Wh
AC Inverter Rating	2000W
AC Input Rating
Number of Outputs
Charging Time	AC 14hours, Solar 100W 18hours
Surge Power	3500W
Life Cycle
Warranty
Weight
Discount Code on She Said it Email List?	YES.
Price at time of writing article	1999.95

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8. Energizer ARC12

Worth mentioning because it’s really light and small but packs a lot of power. A little more expensive than I was expecting due to lack of reviews. They say it will allow you to stay charged up while off the grid or during your next power outage with the massively powerful Arc12, up to 1000-Watts of pure sine wave AC power shared over 3 outlets. Capable of powering your TV, minifridge, router, and many other small appliances and tools. Unlike gas powered generators this Lithium-Ion power station is completely silent, creates no exhaust, and requires no fuel. Charge your smart devices, laptops, lights, television, minifridge, and even power tools while on the go. Recharge with a wall plug, your car, USB-C, or pair with solar panels for endless free power from the sun.

Energizer ARC12

Watts	1000W
AC Inverter Rating	1166Wh
AC Input Rating
Number of Outputs	2xUSB-A, 2xUSB-A quick charge 2xUSB-C, 2x12V, 1 DC 10A/12v 3xAC
Charging Time	AC 7hour, Solar 7-11
Surge Power
Life Cycle
Warranty	24 months
Weight	24
Discount Code on She Said it Email List?	YES.
Price at time of writing article.	1399.99

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The Best Portable Power Station for Van Life Conclusion

I think it’s important to mention that every single one of these portable power stations for Van life also comes in slightly different versions. I use the term van life but what I’m referring to is a lifestyle that has you mostly living off the grid. Your van life power options very depending on your power requirements. You can get a slightly smaller one for a bit less money or a slightly larger one for a bit more money. It’s a great tie for us van lifers there is so much choice available out there. Customer service, warranty, and lifecycles are at the top of my checklist. My Jackery 500 is still going strong and now that I have solar panels on my van (yayyyy) I may never need another one. If I were in the market I’d be picking up the Renogy, it’s on sale right now and I have a discount code for all my email list subscribers. It has super fast charging, lots of outputs and it’s the right size for me to pack around. And under 1000 right now!!!