Today everyone travels with their electronic devices from laptops to cell phones to MP3 players and they all need charging at some point. When you visit a country that uses a different type of electricity than you have at home, recharging your electronics can be tricky.
I just came across a write up on a new travel gadget that I can’t wait to try, the Freeloader, a solar powered charger. It is advertised as an “advanced portable charging system” for hand held devices. It claims it can charge your cell phone, camera, iPod, etc with solar power.
This could eliminate the use of those heavy converters with the adaptor plugs that take up so much space in your luggage. It will be very useful in places where there is no reliable electricity, such as when you are hiking or on safari. And by using solar energy, you will help save the environment. The Freeloader is supposed to hold its charge for up to three months and comes with eight adaptors. It is available in silver or pink. There is also a solar powered battery charger available from the same manufacturer (Freeloader AA/AAA charger).
Imagine using one charger that doesn’t even need to be plugged in. If it requires recharging you just put it out in the sun for a few hours. It would be great for camping trips and for backpacking to remote locations in undeveloped countries.
The Freeloader retails at £29.99. I have not been able to find a North American supplier yet but I am hoping to pick one up later this month when I am in London. Watch for updates on this website.
You can check out the following websites for more information.
Where you can order a solar charger:
http://www.naturalcollection.com/natural-products/Freeloader-Portable-Solar-Charging-System.aspx?image=6
http://www.solartechnology.co.uk/products/Solar_chargers/freeloader.ASP
Solar Chargers
http://privatesearchengine.info/query/solar_powered_pda_battery_chargers_uk.HTML?aff=5
Write up about the Freeloader for North America
http://www.gadgetlounge.net/archives/2007/02/22/the-freeloader-charges-your-gadgets/
