WHY PORTABLE WIND TURBINES SHOULD BE ON YOUR HIKING GEAR LIST

Everybody is familiar with portable solar panels being the game changer for many hikers and campers, providing a clean and renewable source of power for charging phones, laptops and other electronics. However, the weather situation, such as a cloudy sky, greatly affects the solar panel's efficiency during the hikers' journeys. Therefore, portable wind turbines are utilised to mitigate this complication, becoming the most essential item of a hiking gear list.

They are a great backup solution for days with a murky sky, generating electricity even at an average wind speed. It is also worth noting that wind speed is higher in the mountains than at lower elevations, so wind should not be an issue for hikers going upwards.

While portable wind turbines may not be as popular as solar panels yet, they are a great option for hikers who intend to be prepared for any situation during their hiking expedition.

UNDERSTANDING THE CONCEPT OF PORTABLE WIND TURBINES

A portable wind turbine is an ideal source of generating sustainable energy for people living off the grid. For hikers, specifically, its portability can be more appealing as it is ultra-lightweight, compact, and can be effortlessly assembled without keeping extra tools in the backpack.

Although hikers may not receive the same capacity as grid-connected wind turbines – knowing that they are extremely large – they will still be able to charge all the necessary devices throughout their hiking journey.

How Does a Portable Wind Turbine Work?

Portable wind turbines are a great way to generate power while hiking or camping. They can be used to charge cell phones, light bulbs, or any other devices. Most portable wind turbines feature a USB port, and with most modern devices utilising these ports, charging them during a trip will be a breeze!

Portable wind turbines work by harnessing the wind’s kinetic energy and converting it into mechanical energy, generating sustainable power to charge the devices. The wind speed and the turbine’s size both play a role in how much power the turbine can generate.

To use a portable wind turbine, simply set it up in an open area. The turbine will then start generating power when the blades start spinning.

Reliability and Durability of Portable Wind Turbines for Hiking

Generally, portable wind turbines are made of high-quality materials to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them more reliable for hikes that are longer than a day. They have fewer components to easily assemble the wind turbine, mitigating the risk of losing or breaking small parts during the hiking journey.

The main advantage of portable wind turbines is that they are extremely versatile. Not only can they be used to charge electronic devices but can also be used as standalone power sources for charging bigger batteries. Powering big batteries, such as portable power stations, can help store energy to charge the devices later at any time of the day or night.

Portable wind turbines are an excellent choice for hikers who want to reduce inconveniences like draining phones, lamps, or portable power stations’ batteries along the journey.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT PORTABLE WIND TURBINES

One of the most interesting facts about a portable wind turbine is its adaptability to 360 degrees of rotation. Whichever direction the win flows where the hiker sets up camp, the wind turbine will adjust to the direction and supply energy to the devices. All hikers need to do is set it up in an open area and let the wind take over.

Here are some additional factors for hikers to consider: 

Portable Wind Turbines in Harsh Weathers

Portable wind turbines are designed with sturdy tripods and other high-quality, weather-resistant materials that allow them to perform flawlessly in severe weather conditions.

The wind turbines' complex engineering and blades ensure that they continue to spin even when subjected to strong winds.

Water Resistance of Wind Turbines

No matter which terrain hikers plan for trekking, a portable wind turbine should be on the hiking gear list, as its ability to withstand rain, snow and other weather conditions is unrivalled. Water resistance is critical for a portable wind turbine, allowing hikers to utilise the energy source in a wide range of environments.

To prevent any water from entering and damaging the internal components of a turbine, a special seal is crafted. For example, Texenergy’s Infinite Air series of portable wind turbines are rated IP65 for their water resistance ability. An IP65 Rating indicates that the device offers maximum dust resistance and can withstand low-pressure rain from all directions.

Average Weight of Wind Turbines

A standard portable wind turbine usually weighs 1.65 - 5 kilograms, which is light and easy to carry anywhere. Even though it is lightweight, it still provides nearly 5V output that charges mobile phones, batteries, and other essential small devices. This makes it a great choice for hikers who are off the grid, exploring the craggy terrain.

THE ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR HIKING GEAR LIST

Hiking gear is essential for any hiker, regardless of experience or expertise. While some hikers may be able to get away with a few basic items, most will need a more comprehensive list to ensure their safety and comfort while hiking. The following essentials are just a few of the most important items on any hiking gear list.

Clothing and Footwear

To hike comfortably in cold weather, layering is essential. This involves wearing clothes with a base layer, an insulating layer, and an outer layer. Materials such as wool or synthetics are ideal for the base and insulation layers, whereas for outerwear, any breathable, waterproof fabric will serve well.

For footwear, keep a pair of heavy-duty hiking boots that fit snugly and are comfortable. Additionally, pack several pairs of socks to prevent blisters. Try to bring waterproof socks or gaiters if hiking is in a wet region, keeping the feet dry as much as possible. Otherwise, pack cotton socks in regular weather.

Food and Water

Hiking, undoubtedly, can help burn plenty of calories. The inclined terrain forces the body to use more energy while trekking, resulting in burning more calories. This means hikers need to replenish their bodies with food that is high in calories and proteins and drink sufficient water. Some easier meals to prepare are pasta with canned tuna, oatmeal packets, and instant mashed potatoes.

Portable wind turbines can come in handy in powering an electrical cook pot to prepare some of these timesaving, quick meals. For snacks, consider packing trail mix, beef jerky, energy bars, and hard candy. As for water, it is important to drink at least two litres per day, ensuring a proper hydration level of the body.

First Aid Kit and Insect Protection

A first aid kit is required for any trek in the event of any emergencies. Having one that is easily accessible and has all the necessary items is essential. This could include items like band-aids, gauze, antiseptic wipes, etc. Check expiration dates on ointments and other drugs in the kit before heading out. Items like moleskin for preventing blisters and sunscreen to protect from sunburn should be in the backpack as well. Finally, insect repellent is also a must-have, especially if the hiking region is grassy, keeping mosquitos away.

Portable Wind Turbines and Solar Panels

Keeping a portable solar panel or portable wind turbine for your hiking trip can be worthwhile, as they are both incredibly efficient and versatile power sources. A small solar panel or wind turbine can easily provide enough power to charge a phone, GPS unit, or headlamp, which can come in handy if hikers are out on the trail for an extended period of time.

Although solar panels are great for generating power in stationary locations, they are not as efficient when moved around or used in areas with intermittent sunlight. In such cases, portable wind turbines are a better option for hiking than solar panels. They are unaffected by changes in light or weather, making them a more reliable source of power during hiking or even camping.

Nevertheless, the technology has greatly evolved in recent years, by enabling portable wind turbines and portable solar panels to be used in conjunction. Integrating two renewable energy sources creates an even more powerful energy system, increasing the charging by up to 30% - 50%. The two sustainable energy sources can be connected via a USB splitter cable.

HOW A PORTABLE WIND TURBINE AND SOLAR PANEL CAN MITIGATE ENERGY PROBLEMS DURING HIKING

While trekking, the last thing hikers want is for their devices' batteries to run out. Therefore, carrying a portable energy source would be an ideal solution for a long trip.

Portable energy sources, such as wind turbines or solar panels, can be used to power many essential gear items like smartphones, lamps, and power banks to name a few. A portable wind turbine and solar panel can be a real lifesaver when hikers plan to cook and need to power the electric pot or any other kitchen gadgets; after all, there is no electrical grid to power appliances.

Thus, a portable wind turbine such as Texenergy’s Infinite Air 5T would be an excellent choice of charging source to be included in the hiking gear list. It weighs 1.65kg and stands 79cm tall, fitting perfectly in a backpack.

Moreover, to improve the energy supply for battery-powered devices, the Infinite Air 5T can be conveniently connected to the Texenergy 5V solar panel, creating an even more powerful charging system via a USB splitter cable. The combination of Texenergy wind turbines and solar panels can help to keep your devices charged for extended periods of time.