I went thru the same process, decided for portable solar and am very happy with that. I have a HiAce poptop with two 105AH AGM's, they also charge as I am driving and was able to free camp indefinitely provided there was plenty of sun. Traveled all thru the Northern Territory last winter, then from Brisbane to Tassie thru the Great Dividing Range with no problems. I have a 12V fridge which draws around 3.5 A when running and use LED lights with rechargeable AA or AAA batteries when free camping.
I decided against a generator mainly because I was limited for space, they are considered a nuisance by some campers (in some campsites they are not allowed) and I would rather not carry a petrol can inside my van. But it was seriously considered by me and in the end it is a personal decision to go solar. You can always change your mind, you know, both solar panels and generators are saleable items.
I decided against a generator mainly because I was limited for space, they are considered a nuisance by some campers (in some campsites they are not allowed)
Absolutely agree Loki. Generators are too intrusive, especially when used in supposedly pristine places.
Generators don't really give you enough freedom as many places don't let you run them, eg: many National Parks and council spots. They are noisy, even the Honda's. If you like the purity of peace and quite and hearing the birds etc then they can be intrusive. Also you have to be aware how close your neighbours.
With solar power, if you have a decent setup that matches your power needs it is a non worry set and forget system.
If you get a few days of continuous cloudy weather then take it easy at a caravan park...easy
Cheers
Jon
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Home is where we hang our hats - Home now in Yamba NSW
I started out with a Gene and have just progressed and added portable Solar and very happy however, for a couple of days earlier this week there was no sun so had to bring Gene out to add her power to the equation, no probs then. I have decided to watch a movie tonight so gene will get turned on as well just to add her bit to help things a long.
I have set up the TV facing the open door and sitting outside watching, just like at the drive in.
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Live Life On Your Terms
DOUGChief One Feather (Losing feathers with age)
TUG.......2014 Holden LT Colorado Twin Cab Ute with Canopy
DEN....... 2014 "Chief" Arrow CV (with some changes)
Generators need fairly regular maintenance; and a fuel supply carried; they are audibly and olfactorily offensive to other creatures (NOT just other humans) and have accumulative costs to run.... esp away from the capitals/coast.
A solar system simply needs sunlight 'most days', minimal maintenance (batteries only), it is silent and costs (basically) no more than setup....BUT you will need to consider efficient power usage, whilst travelling, more closely.
So, if there is likely to available sunlight where you are headed, there's my 2 cents worth.......
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A good traveller has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving. ~ Lao Tzu
Hi Kathy. You saw my Hi-ace last year. I have a large Solar Panel on the roof. When travelling, the fridge runs on 12V, and at night I usually watch at least 1 DVD at night before going to sleep. That, and lights are 12V too.
As others have said, I don't like the idea of having to carry extra fuel for a Genny either, quite apart from the fact that I don't like the noise factor anyway, and I don't have enough gear to warrant one .
