When it comes to juicing devices like DSLR cameras, coffee machines, or hairdryers during camping or road trips, devices like power inverters come into the picture. Car power inverters provide you with continuous power by converting DC to AC power. And the best thing is that they are small, portable and can easily be carried around. Plus, some power inverters are as powerful enough to power a washing machine or a microwave on low power. Sounds cool, right? So, if you are thinking of going out camping this summer, here are some of the best car power inverters that you should certainly check out. But before we get down to it, here are a few things that you should check before you buy the item.
Capacity: The capacities of power inverters can vary from 150W and can go as far as 4000W. The math is simple. If you are planning to charge low-powered devices, you can settle on a power capacity of around 150W to 500W. A normal laptop consumes around 75W of power while powering on coffee makers or waffle irons can take above 700W. You have to add up the wattage of all the devices that you are planning to take (ones which you will switch simultaneously).
Number of outlets: Most power inverters come with at least two outlets, but some have only one outlet. While the latter gets the job done if you do not power on multiple devices at the same time, it’s best to have a second one for backup.
Modified Sine Wave vs Pure Sine Wave: Though pure wave inverters are designed to protect sensitive electronics and appliances, they are expensive. For most camping needs, modified sine wave inverters fit the bill perfectly. They are affordable, and in some cases may destroy the charging device.
1. Foval 150W Car Power Inverter
Plus, it comes with built-in protection to protect against surges. At the same time, it’s extremely lightweight and weighs around 9.9 ounces. The product has a chunk of positive reviews and people love it for its versatility, durability, and proves to be great for long road trips and work travel. Plus, it doesn’t make much noise when powered on. The only thing you need to keep in mind is not to leave it plugged into your car as it can drain your car’s battery. At the same time, we’d recommend plugging it in after starting your car as it may cause the inverter to overload and fail.
2. Bestek 300W Power Inverter
Plus, the build of the product is solid enough to withstand everyday wear and tear. The only thing you have to keep in mind is that it may be difficult to fit all the cords at a time. On the upside, the robust build can easily withstand the summer heat. At 500W, it can power lights, small fans, battery charger units, and air pumps. In short, it can power most equipment you’d need on a camping trip.
3. Bapdas 150W Car Power Inverter
The Bapdas power inverter measures only 3.2 x 2.5 x 1.5-inches — ideal for carrying it on your backpack’s pocket when not in use. Plus, the aluminum body makes it strong and durable. The user reviews have been pretty good for this product. Many users have stated that it works as advertised. And they love it for its easy-to-use nature and the quality of the material. The only limitation is the use of a single power outlet. On the upside, you can follow the advice above and make the most out of your power strip provided you do not run more than 10 watts at one time.
4. Energizer 500 Watt Power Inverter
The big power capacity makes sure that you can run plenty of appliances like mini-refrigerators, TVs, fans, and even curling irons. It has two power outlets for powering two devices at the same time. Plus, the 4 USB outlets of 2.4A each makes sure that your tablet, phone, and laptops stay charged all the time. Reviews regarding this product have been quite great. Users highly recommending it for long road trips and campsite outings. However, it’s not without its limitations. Some users have expressed concerns about the mounting tabs, as they can be a bit difficult to mount. On top of that, at 8 x 4 x 2-inches, it’s a tad bigger than its above counterparts. And combined with its odd shape, it can be a bit difficult to adjust it in between both the seats. So, depending on the make of your car, you might want to consider this issue.
5. Krieger KR1100 1100 Watt 12V Power Inverter
The KR1100 functions well and is easy to install. Furthermore, the installation kit comes with heavy-duty cables, something that has been appreciated by many users. Plus, the long cables mean you do not have to worry about repositioning your vehicle too often to reach the power strip. Plus, it has its share of overload and temperature protections. All the information like voltage and battery information is displayed neatly on the LCD screen. The KR1100 weighs around 4.41 pounds.
Camp like a Pro
Continuous power supply while camping or on the road is massive relief since you can use your electrical equipment without any issues. All you need to do is pick the right wattage depending on the appliances that you plan to use. Just remember to unplug when not in use to avoid battery drain. So, where is your next trip taking you? The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.
