Slim Tests Jackery's Explorer 500 & SolarSaga 100 Power System

[@pegasusteam]

I’ve watched quite a few videos on the Jackery line. You’re the first to show it had an led flashlight built in.

[@keith9875]

I purchased a Jackery Explorer 500 in December 2019. I specifically intended to use it to power communications equipment (ham radio), and it has served me well. I understood the 500-watt limitations and I have never expected anything more, nor have I ever regretted my purchase. It is a very handy and useful piece of preparedness equipment. I have since purchased the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro and this power supply has opened up a whole new world of possibilities. Combining my Jackerys with 600-watts of portable solar panels has given me great piece of mind. Excellent review Slim.

[@zoeycla]

Thank you so much Slim for sharing this review. I've been researching and (not totally understanding) these types of power stations. Your explanations and demonstrations are miles ahead of others so again thanks for making this easier to understand. Love all your videos!

[@nooneanon3151]

I agree I've seen the Jackery talked about on many videos but Slim did it more clearly than any I'd seen with extra good ideas.

[@patriciaoneil]

When charging the Battery Unit in a closed car, be mindful that under direct sunlight the room temperature might exceed the max Operating Temperature Range of 40 degree celsius pretty fast. Although that admittedly might be more of a spring/summer problem. I had left a smartphone in a car and when I returned a couple hours later the battery had popped. Sent some chills down my spine imagining what if it had caught fire and set the car ablaze.

[@tracker5849]

SCARY!!!!!!

[@clytiecatrett6209]

Thanks for this. I've been trying to talk my husband into buying a Jackery to run his CPAP machine.

[@MrProductionist]

I don't think you give enough credit to your trailer home. I honestly is one of the reason why I watch your show. Seen that you go anywhere and your trailer home protects you from all weather conditions. I also love your narration. Most professional and you editing presentable ready. Keep it up Sir. My most respects to your channel.

[@tcjohnson1000]

Putting the solar panel in the windshield of a locked vehicle is brilliant, simply brilliant! Well done Sir.

[@katyamato1347]

Great review. Entertaining and educational. People like you makes this world better place. Thank you so much😀 Yama I just bought Jackery 500 today.

[@jameswebster9624]

I just got my Jackery 550 and love it so far. Just waiting on my solar saga 100 watt panel to arrive for further testing. Thanks for such a great review on it!!

[@bethaddis4377]

I just purchased one. I do off grid camping with my kids. This last time was rough -27 f we were only forecasted to be -5. Boy I was happy for the wood stove in my camper. I will have to look up the panels for my jackery. I also got it for my husbands cpap. We live in tornado prone area. Want to make sure he has it at all times.

[@patriciasolomon7618]

Ingenious charging in the window for security!

[@SeeingSparx]

He’s like a camping sensei

[@pianogal853]

My solar products don't charge behind my windshield - too well shielded from UV I guess

[@bpp325]

Brilliant idea.

[@CarlasLovingWife]

You make it look so easy to set up and operate. I have to have it! That is what I want for Christmas. Thanks Slim.

[@danmanx2]

Thank you Slim for your great honest video about the power system. I'm going to buy a Jackery 500, most likely [or the model a step down]. My set up will never be as amazing as yours, but my plan is to have a travel vehicle with a couch and TV and those sort of things for adventuring/sleep/relaxation. Thanks again for all your videos and always giving us honesty.

[@barbarahayton6157]

Another great video! Recently I heard of Jackery power stations and now I know a lot more. Thanks so much for your helpful videos to help us get more from our off the grid camping. I look forward to all of our videos. Safe travels!

[@johnplouffe3673]

Always enjoy your videos I find you to be a humble and practical man looking forward to seeing new videos from you have yourself a good day

[@pagewhite61]

That’s a cool product, I love the beer cooler case idea. Thanks Slim.

[@orapronobis2149]

October 9, 2024 Maryland, USA: As always so many lessons to be learned from you. I love it you put a jacargy into a cooler!!!

[@yedman1958]

I have had the exact worries when leaving my solar generator out when hiking away from the campsite. It NEVER occurred to me to put it inside the car! Simple and Brilliant!

[@Here_is_Waldo]

Just make sure not to do it during summer. Lithium batteries only handle something like 40 Celsius, and they have been known to catch fire at temperatures above that.

[@silversurfer805]

I bought a cable & lock from Harbor Freight for my solar panels so I can takeoff while they are charging my batteries.

[@deadthem]

I just discovered your channel and you sir are THE MAN! I'm going to pour myself a glass of whiskey tonight and binge your videos. Have a good one!

[@Fingerprintguy]

Pour guy just discovered the channel now. Binge on my friend and pore it on!

[@2nd_gear85]

He needs Patreon page asap! He has great content.

[@RandomPlaceHolderName]

@@Fingerprintguy You're confusing poor/pour/pore.

[@tuckergreen2818]

RandomPlaceHolderName I have holes 🕳 in all my undies now that’s being poor

[@totallyjonesin]

Make it Canadian for authenticity.

[@kennethoros4043]

I watched tons of reviews. Your seems to be the best. I was thinking about putting the solar panel in my front window as well. The bag seems to be a perfect fit.

[@dreamhunter272]

Loved your review! A lot of useful info. I was thinking of the yeti 450. But will look more into this. I like the idea of the cooler as no one would think to steal it. Great job!

[@faithrada]

Not want to steal 24 cans of beer? Hmm.

[@nooneanon3151]

@@faithrada Yep I've had my camp invaded and cooler on picnic table looked into - people looking for beer - fortunately I heard them and my movement scared off but all they would have found anyway was food - no beer. Since then I camp in bear country so of course never leave cooler out.

[@faithrada]

@@nooneanon3151 🐻🍺🌲😎

[@harloh9578]

I've been looking into this setup for my truck camping setup so thanks for the review. Hairdryer idea......genius!

[@cherriemckinstry131]

What about one of those small area heaters that work on 110? I know it jas to be under 500watts. Running the hair dryer into the sleeping bag just might make for a better night.

[@harloh9578]

@@cherriemckinstry131 That's a good idea. I have a mr. Heater but would like to use something a little smaller.

[@maryfrady7149]

I've been using the Stanley 1200 for a year now. It has a light, airs up tires,can jump start my Van's battery as well as having USB & 110 outlets. I do have to charge it by plugging it into a wall socket but for under $100, I'm happy with it. I still may get a jackery and solar panels. Time will tell!

[@paulrobinson1337]

Hi Slim - thanks for this video. Appreciate your thoughts on this kit and have gone ahead and ordered the Jackery 550 with the solar panels from Canadian Tire (virtuallly identical to your 500). Our teardrop has rooftop solar panels and a plug in panel but the issue is always when we are camped in shadier areas and not feeding our AGM battery enough to keep our dometic cooler powered. The ability to take the Jackery kit to the sun (or to shore power) and that brilliant idea of using it as a sun shade sealed the deal - the extra power will be welcome for all kinds of uses. Cheers - enjoy your videos.

[@janicem4382]

Thanks for the beer can cooler idea. I have a Jackery and it is a great thought.

[@lenward474]

It's about time! Every other KZbin is supported by jackery.well done!!

[@waymanbell]

Great review Slim, you've really peaked my interest in the Jackery. ......and Wishing I was out in the mountains today like you!

[@stevecolby6505]

Great thing about the Jackery and panels is that you can transfer them to your next trailer with ease. No custom installation needed.

[@SuperCJification]

That is an interesting point to be made in favor of having a system like this (portable power station) in that other than some manufacturer tie-in (Jackery unit only working (officially) with Jackery panels for example) it's basically a way to invest in a power system that you can move between places/trailers so you can retain your investment.

[@wvbonbonqueen]

Another great video Slim. I have seen other videos on the Jackery, but You are the first one that I have seen that shows there is a light on the side of the Jackery. Thank you, that would really be a great feature and one that would be used from time to time. A good review, thank you.

[@marialopes9365]

Honestly, somebody should hire you as a promoter/influencer, cause you make awesome review videos Mr. Slim ! Thanks for the video ! Keep them coming !

[@FarrellMcGovern]

Great review! I enjoy the humour in your videos, and this is no exception. Thank you.

[@minenot4753]

Darn. I want to use my solar panel as a raft. Appreciate your honest review. The beer cooler suggestion is epic.

[@jsking306]

Another great video. I've seen other camping KZbin channels, and the charger seems to be pretty popular. Thanks for all of your extremely interesting and entertaining content!

[@kbjerke]

I bought an Explorer 500 a few months ago, and I love it. SO much, that I bought an Explorer 1500 last month. Same wonderful performance. You had a *GREAT* idea of putting the folding solar panels behind the windshield!!! LOL!

[@N8D79]

Thank you for another great video with a bonus review! Definitely going to look into the jackery, I still need a solar setup for my cargo trailer! Cheers!

[@richardmattingly7000]

Kudos on the review because many wouldn't show the little tricks you know like using a reflective surface like snow to maximize recharging or setting it up in a vehicle so it wouldn't walk away. Another way to imitate Slim's reflection tip is to put down a white material like a sheet or plastic sheet under the panel and it would also protect it from the ground at the same time. The best reflector would be a Silvered Mylar Foil like some Windshield Shade use or similar insulation material sold in rolls since there practically a mirror. Be careful not to use rechargeable battery or device when its on in an insulated container because they do release heat that can soar to dangerous levels and check it even while it's off since there should be no heat generated when stored in any insulated container or other such storage conditions.

[@ittrax]

Operating it in the car while you're away won't be a solution in summertime - will get much too hot very quickly, dangerous. Won't it even be too hot for the device inside a car parked in sunlight in summer to just store/keep it there?

[@jeffreycalkins7679]

Wow slim the idea of leaving it in your ride while it charges is brilliant. I can't believe that thought hadn't crossed anyone elses mind including myself. I've been watching alot of jacket reviewers because I've really thought about getting this product. Thanks for a very good and unique review.

[@anitablades6033]

My roommate bought a small solar panel to keep up both of my truck batteries, works great so long as it parked in the sun!

[@lindasue8719]

When driving with it on your passenger seat, run the safety belt through it. In a "situation" that thing will become a deadly projectile. Another good clear video, amiably presented. Thanks! 😊

[@trekOCLVone]

After researching the portable solar generators I bought the Jackery 500 watt unit. I recharged 2 Dewalt 18v NiMH batteries that were about 1/2 down from full and the Jackery was still at 81%. A couple of days later the Jackery 60 watt panels came and I place the panel in direct sun light and achieved 48 watts of charging going back into the Jackery. A couple hours and the Jackery was back to 100% charged. You get what you pay for with these devices - cheaper units are just more of a gamble. The low cost 100 watt panels will not deliver any more wattage than the 60 watt Jackery panels. This unit is my backup for home and travel use. Anything more serious that a few hours of power outage and I will gas up my Honda generator. Thank you for sharing.

[@brighton_dude]

Thank you for using celsius. I know that in Canada this is commonly used. The US RVers who make KZbin videos talk exclusively in Fahrenheit but today the vast majority of the world uses celsius. I think it is good to put in the Fahrenheit conversion on screen as you did.

[@climber0077]

Well done, informative video, Slim! I'll be checking out your other vids as well!

[@ravencrow9459]

Great video, Jackery is one outfit I am considering since I need to travel with a CPAP machine. Your explanations always clear up questions for me. Stay warm and have wonderful holidays.

[@cocacolafiesta]

Great idea for the cooler as a means of protection. But, additionally, with the strap of the cooler it provides for hands free carrying. Thanks for your review.

[@GoodoldCT90]

Very good video Slim, The Jackery Explorer 500 & SolarSaga 100 is to expensive for most of us part time campers. Thanks again.

[@susanpremo8068]

Cool, since we just bought, but haven't been able to use yet, an aliner classic, I've been watching your videos, very inspiring, I know nothing about how to use the jackery or solar, but hope to understand these things soon. Some folks say "you'll learn in a hurry "!

[@johnaverick7468]

Thank you SO , SO Much for converting all your metric measurements for us old Yanks.

[@itsadogslife7468]

This is a better review the most I’ve seen on the Jackery 500

[@TheRudythecat]

Well, Slim, I was with you all the way until you started the workout!!!!! Great review.

[@sueg2658]

Slim, when you said about reflection on the solar panel, I wondered is something like reflectix put down under it would help no matter when and where you use it. Just an idea. Thank you for sharing with us. 👍🏻❤️

[@pouglwaw5932]

Good thinking ! It may or may not be really effective, but surely will not hurt power production. Thanks for the tip.

[@marklennox2151]

This is interesting Sue. I've been building out my Chevy Astro and I have a Renogy 100w panel on the roof and my Jackery 500 was showing 30 watts of input. I was putting foil sided foamboard insulation on the ceiling that day and had placed a 4x8 sheet leaning on the van. When I looked at the Jackery's input it went up to 52 watts from the reflection so I may be fabricating something to enhance the input.

[@TheGratitudeAttitude]

I've seen the Jackery recommended by a few avid campers ... and now you, too, Slim! I watch a lot of William Prowse's DIY solar videos and he likes the Jackery as well. There are more powerful solar generators that he reviews, but this is a great portable size for camping. Our portable Black & Decker ceramic heater runs at 750w set at low... so we would have to get a smaller watt heater. It's great to get further confirmation from you that it's a good value. . You mention 149º as the highest temp... that's great since if you leave the panels in the car (great suggestion by the way!) it will get mighty hot in there on a July afternoon. Thanks for sharing this! ~ Maria

[@David-rx2to]

Look at 12V electric blankets. They use less power than a ceramic heater and put the heat where it is needed.

[@TheGratitudeAttitude]

@@David-rx2to I have considered one... Have you found a good one?

[@David-rx2to]

No. I've been looking for a full sized one. All the 12V blankets I've seen so far are the smaller "throw" blankets, roughly 40"x60". I'm a big guy, so I need a full sized blanket.

[@TwoLaneTraveller]

Slim, My experience with Jackery’s portable products has all been positive. I still prefer fixed mounts and Renogy MPPT controllers. My favorite Jackery feature is the ability to charge it from the power port in my truck. I have not had a single issue with either company.

[@bustershaw9230]

Hey Slim That was a honest and great review. You'll need another cooler for your beer. I like how you can put it on the dash. You can go hiking and it'll be secure and charging. Happy Thanksgiving.

[@SurvivalistChick]

Fantastic idea about the beer cooler! I bought one immediately after seeing this. It arrived today. Absolutely perfect fit! Thanks for the tip, and the video overall. You're a funny guy.

[@ncpinky8495]

I have seen a lot of reviews on the Jackery 500, and yours has been the most thoughtful and thorough. Thanks, Slim!

[@deanmills5106]

I appreciate your input on just about any items your talking about. I'm just getting into camping at the young age of 72. No time like the present to try new adventures. I was considering the 3 in 1 station from harbor freight. However I didn't consider the fact that it does not have the 110 volt outlet for my laptop.

[@nooneanon3151]

Dean MILLS you only have me beat by 1 year. I'm getting back into camping and not just for fun but for my home. I did it 10 years ago once for about 10 days in rain forest in almost constant downpour and once for 6 weeks until mid-September last 2 weeks in very cold nights - I enjoyed ever minute and that was tent camping. This time it will be car or van or camp trailer and starting out in Canadian winter this time.

[@deanmills5106]

@@nooneanon3151 I would love to just take off and start traveling. Probably wouldn't go over to well with my wife, but I'd still love too. The older I get the more time becomes valuable.

[@KenWPeek]

Will Prowse did a tear-down of this model, and it is VERY well made inside. This is probably the best you can buy in this power and energy range.

[@azclaimjumper]

And I'm sure, at some point in time, Will, will chime in by saying "something".

[@nooneanon3151]

Can't imagine being able to afford to "tear-down" one but thanks that's very good to know I've been lusting for one for almost a year - going to buy soon - especially helpful to see Slim's review and hear that they're good inside out too!

[@scottmurphy4946]

I have been watching Will for a bit now, and will search his videos if I am in the market for small portable power

[@disco07]

Looks like a nice piece of equipment. Its good to know you are color coordinated. I used cheap white paper plates. Plug in a computer, small tv and a cheap ceramic heater. That's all I use.

[@cliffmason-wenn1479]

Thanks for reviewing this , I saw it in one of your previous videos and couldn’t read the name , I’ll start saving for one !

[@ebachy]

I noticed one ergonomic aspect while watching you use the system, you kept having to tip it up to read the display. Maybe they could add a phone interface via bluetooth, a rotating/flip-up display window, or reposition the display on the top somewhere out of harms way? Love your creativity and can-do spirit! Cheers with 24 beers!

[@jimthvac100]

Yes they could add that feature but it would just add to the cost. I am sure there is a point where they keep adding features and cost and then lose sales as a result.

[@j.w.m.rhynejr9766]

Great informative review! Thanks for sharing this story of experience with the functional solar generator tool !

[@beckyspindler2153]

Yes I agree about putting the panels in the windshield of your car that too will also be like a greenhouse effect and bring the temperature closer to not freezing for charging. It's a good day to be a cat in the window with a good book and a snuggly warm dark blanket. Thanks for sharing looking forward to seeing more

[@David-rx2to]

Slim...I enjoy your videos. You probably should say not to run the unit while it is in the cooler case as I noticed ventilation slots on both sides of the Jackery...could it overheat and damage itself without airflow? Great idea putting the solar panel behind your windshield. I wish you would have done something like setting the panel on the outside of your windshield and reported the watts generated, then moved it inside to discover how many watts the windshield degrades the output. When Jackery says not to get the module wet for optimum life, I think they are speaking of the connection box on the back of the panel...but, you do have a point with the material covering the back. I'm sure moisture on the electrical connections would, over time, create corrosion and faulty connections. Here is a job for your hair dryer...when/if the panel spends some time in the rain, before you put it away, blow dry the connections. Is there anything in the FAQ's about using the Jackery to start your car if your car battery goes dead? I noticed the 12V plug and I assume you could use that to charge the unit while you drive but, does power flow both ways through that plug to give your starting battery a boost? Are those LL Bean boots? I used to have a pair with the insulated liners like the ones you are wearing. Thanks for your channel!

[@kathybowen3725]

You remind me of something I used to search for in the back of hunting magazines back in the 60s called TAPS TIPS. Your good friend Vinny in good old Fla.

[@katpis9121]

Great product review I want one now lol. Keep the great videos coming loving this channel

[@HaroldMalaby]

I have the same unit except the cord is connected within the zipper pouch along with the USB port which I feel is better protected from the elements. So I just uncoil my cord and zip up to the cord on each side. Your presentation is very well done and good communication 👍. The portability is the key as you have stated but I will add that the Jackery Solar Panel is a priority unit would not play well with other systems. My wife uses a CPAP and with all the bells and whistles running on her unit the Jackery 500 will carry her through the night. Like you I'm still getting used to the system and the charging via solar does have many variables such as weather, angle and my attention to the unit for moving it when necessary. What I want to do is now get installed, by me to save money, a fixed system on our rig and feel Renogy may be the way to go would you agree? Again good presentation and thank you for sharing it with me.

[@bmushler]

I like the "Real Life" kinda stuff you present. Down to earth talk, what when where things that are from a real person who has used the product and not just been paid to read the brochure. Oh ya, good luck with the new trailer.

[@shadow_gingy999]

Great review, best I've seen on the Jackery, so far. Hope you got some compensation for it. Thanks!

[@mikemay1200]

Love your vids. Much more informative than other channels.

[@caroltrammell6972]

Thank you for the information on the Jackery...it was sooo very helpful

[@msnpassjan2004]

Hey Slim, this is hands down the best unit on the market for a CPAP machine.

[@jmpattillo]

msnpassjan2004 I was able to use a similar unit for tent camping with CPAP. Mine has a much smaller capacity due to airline restrictions. Nevertheless I was able to use the heated humidifier for 5-6 hours a night as long as I recharged every day. Also, I ran my dream station directly off 12 volts to avoid the power loss from the inverter.

[@ChonkBob]

Hahahaha

[@cyndifoore7743]

msnpassjan2004 good to know that

[@msnpassjan2004]

@@turkey4957 I use the Jackery 440, the Jackery 500 predecessor, daily since September 2019 as my UPC. My Resmed CPAP machine pulls around 5 watts so the Jackery 440 is good for about 16 hours to 30%. The Jackery 500 should be even better.

[@mrbillmacneill]

Portable power for the campsite is the future Slim! We don't have the Jackery -however we do have a competitor unit and we are also quite happy with the results so far. I would urge your viewers to check out some form of portable power that has a solar panel option. It has simplified our power use considerably. Formerly we would spend a fair bit of time each day during our travels charging cpap batteries , fan batteries , phones etc from the 12volt cigarette lighter outlet. Currently [!] we would charge a cpap battery ,run a small USB fan for circulation and a bit of a night light , a fridge and two Bluetooth speakers. With this draw down of power we only got to half way [about three days] before I relented and charged it up again so we are happy with that. That we could take a nice coffee bean grinder on our travels is also a plus. We have the solar option and the 12 volt adapter and I would recommend them both for sure. Haven't had it out on the trail as yet but it is maintaining the charge on our unit as we communicate , right here in the apt. Excellent idea for panel security and will be implemented forthwith as I am pretty sure there is enough room in the Transit wheelhouse for that. -also liked beer cooler idea a lot. and a thumbs up , of course!

[@Jollyprez]

We had our Jackery 500 fall about 4 feet onto the floor, ripping-out the DC plug on its way. It then rolled around on the floor or about 90 minutes. Worked fine - not even a scratch on the case. It's tough.

[@nooneanon3151]

Wow - now I'm REALLY impressed! I had already seen a comment on here saying he tore one down a Jackery and it was very well made inside too. So, I'm assuming yours fell off something in your rig and was rolling while you drove - that's very good to know how tough they are. I had a huge power pack from Canadian Tire way back in 2008 - it was so heavy! It had a radio in it a 12 V DC plugs etc. but it weighed about 40 lbs and it took a day or two on house power to charge then didn't last as long as a snowball in hell - anyway from the times it did work and give me freedom out camping I have always wanted another one. So I'm trying to find out where in Canada I can go purchase one. I heard that Jackery has made them available here.

[@Jollyprez]

@@nooneanon3151 In our cargo trailer build, the Jackery supplies ALL of the power in day-to-day use. The trailer has AC plugs to supply two wall sockets, but it hasn't been used, yet. There is a separate 50ah battery connected to the diesel heater that is charged by the Jackery. The heater needs an uninterruptible supply to shut down properly. So far, after 8-10 hours of diesel heater use, the Jackery uses about 15% of its capacity to fully recharge the heater battery. Also, I put in a holder to keep the Jackery in place now.

[@michellecastaneda20]

I have a 250 Jackery. I love it. Works great. I was just out for 3 weeks. It did great.

[@joharmon2148]

I have seen many channels do a review on the Jackery but of course yours is the best. You show everything and close up to see what can be used. Now all I need is the money to buy one LOL I really think this is the best way to go. Thank You Slim

[@Troy_KC-2-PH]

Slim Potato 🥔 head is one of my favorite (favourite) Canadian KZbinrs 👍

[@atco21117]

Great review! And, what a tip on putting the solar panel in the truck dash. I never thought about that. Thanks! -- Atco

[@bradfordpalmer2298]

Really great review. I'm glad you pointed out that charging can be done by car on the road. In Texas on a ranch in the summertime, having power to run a fan out in the field would be great.

[@whereswendy8544]

Great review, thanks! I need one for my c-pap machine when l am boondocking.

[@nancycrosby3153]

I have the small Jackery and i love it, wish i would have gone for the 500...the light is very nice to have also..safe travels

[@toddjohnston4788]

Putting solar panels inside front car window is a GREAT idea. Thanks 😊

[@erikacooper8348]

Hi Slim, I believe Bex Cat Herder also did an great review on this too, thanks for the videos!

[@rickilee961]

Just wanting to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and keep up the great videos

[@lindawoods6841]

I really like that jackery...and to be light weight I would love it..great information.. really love your videos,,thank you again for sharing.

[@billsexton8073]

Another great vid Slim. I would like to see an update where you use a space blanket as a ground sheet (to keep it dry/clean) and to reflect more like if snow isn't present. Thank you!

[@micktaylor7937]

Bill Sexton great idea! I think it might help the output as well. I will try it this summer with my portable panel. Thanks.

[@marklennox2151]

Thanks Slim. The Outbound cooler is out of stock on Amazon so I got one with similar dimensions. If temps fall below freezing in my Chevy Astro I'll throw the Jackery in it with a hand warmer. I just hope the input plug fits. I'm also thinking about getting one of those Conair hair dryers to use as a heat source. I hate propane.

[@cindychurch925]

As always, fantastic review. Impressive. Happy Thanksgiving!!

[@karenlewkowitz5858]

Thanks Slim! Respect! Always enjoy your videos and know how!

[@cyn4rest]

Got it! Thanks for link and promo code to save some buckeroos. Already have the Jackery500. Looking forward to testing them together. Safe travels....

[@borealiswan2363]

Exactly what I've looking for, shopping around on Amazon! Thanks for the awesome review... with that touch of humour...

[@amascia8327]

OK... well covered. And, the car interior security (and weather) suggestion is excellent. However, inside the car use means inside the car temperatures: beneficial in winter [for extending operating temperatures] and too hot for summer... over 170°f [max] in the summer sun. Of course, since it's generating plenty of power in the summer, you could jury-rig an interior vent fan for the car to keep it in the safe range. 100cfm computer fans draw about 1 amp (of the 10 amps available at the 12v outlet)... might need more than one. Explorer 500 Power Station User Manual says Recharging Temp is 0°C to 40°C (104°F)... PS: be careful also about ventilation requirements when using the 24beer carrier.

[@jwagnermail]

I also would have liked to hear a warning about ventilation while the Jackery is in the insulation carrier, I'm sure some people will think that it should be OK to just keep it in the carrier all the time. On a hot day, the inverter will overheat and shorten the battery life. I wonder if the device has an over heat protection?

[@amascia8327]

@@jwagnermail Explorer 500 Power Station User Manual says yes to overheat protection.

[@anitablades6033]

@@amascia8327 Walmart sells a little fan that would work, got one to keep my game machine cool.

[@amascia8327]

@@anitablades6033 Slim has also done some other work with fans: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5isn3iBp7qXg6c He shows a Wal-Mart fan... yours? I'm thinking some ducting might be needed to be sure the controller gets "cool" air... just guessing. And, the solar cells in the windshield might need a fan... Anyway, there's 10 amps of 12v dc available so it shouldn't be a problem.

[@johnlupo9577]

I love your channels handle. Great videos, great product review.

[@weldee]

When you review something it is always a great review. Why? Because you do Real World Reviews. Nicely done Slim. "Keep it Real" should be your Credo..

[@bobmccarter1289]

Hey Slim, Thanks a lot for your suggestion of the Jackery Explorer 500. I did some research into it with other people and their experiences too. I had been looking for a portable power system and other offerings I saw were out of my price range. I received my Jackery 500 today and it's getting its initial charge. I'm looking forward to using it in my off grid trailer. The solar panels you've shown are not available as of now, but I've got my own that'll work with it for recharging until I get the SolarSaga 100's. Thanks for all of your suggestions! Maybe I'll see you down the road somewhere. Cheers! BOMAC

[@SlimPotatohead]

Glad you like it Bob. Any 100W or less panel should work fine. Amazon sells MC4 adapters that fit the Jackery input as well. Thanks! SP

[@1BABartz1]

In lieu of snow, what about setting a Mylar blanket in front of it?

[@johnm1585]

Excellent video review. I already bought a Jackery but havent had time to try it out. Now I have a head start on how to use it. Thanks. The security tip is a good idea I will use, as well as using snow placement (or a white rug?) to boost input.

[@donnasnorthernlights2089]

I just ordered the jackery 1000 with 2 solar panels!

[@kleineroteHex]

So how is it working for you after 3 years???

[@kenshores9900]

Good review. We live in an area where power goes out routinely. This would allow us to power some emergency devices. Thanks. By the way the amount of time you can use batteries at cold temps depends on the amount of insulation. The amount of time can be estimated.

[@MattHalpain]

I like the method of putting the solar panels in the front windshield of the vehicle and having the Jackery in the vehicle locked up.

[@Morningdovecamp]

Thank you Slim. Excellent review. I am just getting started on van life and don’t know if I should get the Jackery 500 vs the 1000? THank you for your demonstration and explanation 👍

[@SolarSailor1967]

I considered a portable system for camping. I opted away due to the proprietary nature of many systems. If part of the unit fails (charge controller, battery, inverter) you had to buy a new unit. I also enjoyed assembling the system myself. Sounds like the Jackery would be perfect for short outings in perfect weather.

[@davidjones8680]

Hello Slim. Have you ever considered mounting solar panels on the roof of your Jeep. You could charge up fixed extra batteries or Jackery in your car when its parked up all day and your out hiking. When you return to your camper just connect up with an extension cable. Many thanks. David in the UK.