Bluetti has introduced Handsfree Backpack Power Stations, a set of solar charging kits for hiking. The company offers 4 sets, and the price starts at $299.
The kits are targeted at nature photographers, but Bluetti also believes they will appeal to hikers, climbers, backpackers, adventurers, cyclists and motorcyclists. The side panel in the backpacks provides access to all inputs and outputs without having to remove the station. These ports can also be controlled via Bluetooth using the Bluetti app.
The $299 solar generator kit fits into a 42-liter backpack and is capable of powering AC devices up to 300 watts using 268.8 Wh lithium-ion batteries.
This is enough to recharge the DJI Mavic 3 or a laptop about three times. The $399 model will be housed in a 60-liter backpack and will have up to 700 watts of power and 512 watt-hours.
The charging stations will have five outputs: 1x AC, 2x 100W USB-C and 2x 15W USB-A. They will have XT60 inputs for connecting solar panels to help keep the batteries charged: 12V-28V / 200W for Handsfree 1 and 12V-45V / 350W for Handsfree 2.
Handsfree 1 measures 286.5 × 95 × 280 mm and weighs 5 kg, while the larger Handsfree 2 measures 305 × 105 × 385 mm and weighs 7.5 kg. It is worth noting that these are the dimensions of the charging stations only. The weight with backpacks is not specified.
The backpacks have many pockets to help organize all your gear, as well as Molle straps for external wear. The backpack is protected from water splashes, but it is better not to get caught in a downpour with it.