How to · Tech
Grab a reliable kit during early summer sales to power your gear without needing a wall outlet.
How we got that: $400 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.
You want a kit that won't quit halfway through a trip. Buying a decent one once is better than buying a cheap one twice when it fails in the sun.
Tech updates happen every year, but solar panels don't change that fast. Look for last year's model during early summer sales to get the same power for less.
Just remember that the 18-month window is a deadline, not free money. If you haven't paid the balance in full by then, you'll start paying interest on whatever is left.
Higher wattage means faster charging for your phones and laptops. Make sure the output matches your specific gear.
You'll be tossing this in a bag or leaving it on the ground. Pick something with weather-resistant casing.
Camping gear retailers often drop prices in early summer to clear out old stock. That's your best window to save.
The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi) offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. For a $400 kit, that's $22.22 per month.
Don't wait until you're miles from civilization to see if it works. Set it up in your yard first.
Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.
See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →It depends on what you're charging. A small 20W panel works for phones, but you'll want something bigger for laptops.
It'll still charge, but it'll be much slower. You'll get the most juice when the sun is direct.
Most are water-resistant, meaning they can handle a light drizzle. Don't go dropping them in a lake.
Some kits are built for it, but check the output ports. You usually need USB-C Power Delivery for larger devices.