This summer I tested the Bushnell SolarWrap Mini USB solar charger on backpacking and road trips.
Small solar panels are attached to a thin, flexible material that rolls into a plastic housing when not in use to easily stow in a jacket or backpack pocket.
During the day I unrolled the SolarWrap and charged my phone using the sun’s rays. At night, the charger is still useful; a lithium-ion battery stores energy for later use and boosted my camera battery in a matter of minutes.
The Gear: Bushnell SolarWrap Mini
Price: $59.99
Available: Now
Where To Test It: Unroll the solar panel anywhere there’s sunlight. Or use the built-in battery to charge USB devices at night.
Who’s It For: Anyone who wants a lightweight option for charging cellphones or other small USB-powered devices off the grid.
Boring But Important: You can charge the internal battery by connecting to a computer or wall outlet. This process took me about three hours. Or, you can charge the battery using its solar panel, which takes about 10 hours.
Important Specs:The brand states the SolarWrap packs one amp of power, which is enough to charge a smart phone once or a smaller device like GPS unit twice.
Made In: China
Killer! Super lightweight at 3.1 ounces, it rolls up to about the size of a candy bar when not in use. A grommet hole allows the panel to attach to a tent, tree, or backpack.
