Spending time outdoors is important. It’s also important to stay connected while you’re camping, hiking or on the water so you can track weather conditions and handle emergencies.

Without easy access to outlets, keeping your electronics charged requires planning. Here are ways to extend battery life and stay powered up and safe outdoors.

Charge before you go

Fully charge your phone, camera, GPS or other devices before you hit the road. Don’t forget extra batteries for flashlights or headlamps.

Keep chargers in your car, but only charge devices while the engine is running to avoid draining the car battery. Hide cords and chargers from view if you leave your car unattended.

Pack smart

When you’re camping, everything you pack needs to be worth its weight in gold, or at least double as a backup battery. Bring lightweight power banks and multi-use gear like solar lanterns with USB ports. Emergency radios and portable speakers often offer charging jacks, too.

Optimize battery life

Switch to airplane mode to prevent your phone from searching for a cell signal. This also helps you fully unplug without the distraction of text messages or Instagram notifications.

Turn off Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and GPS when not in use. Dim screen brightness or enable power saving mode — or simply turn your phone off when not in use. Save your battery for essential tasks such as navigation or emergencies.

Choose campsites with power

Look for campgrounds with electric hookups to make charging simple and stress-free. Bring an outdoor-rated extension cord to charge multiple devices at once.

Harness alternative energy

Flexible solar panel chargers are perfect for sunny days outdoors. Hook one up directly to your phone or power bank. For overcast conditions, hand-crank chargers can offer enough power for an emergency phone call, while wind, water and fire-powered options provide additional back up.

Protect your devices

Keeping your devices safe and functional is just as important as keeping them charged.

• Use waterproof cases to guard against rain or spills.
• Avoid extreme temperatures, as batteries drain faster in hot or cold weather. During cold weather, keep electronics close to your body for prolonged battery life.
• Store devices securely to prevent damage from falls or dirt exposure.

With these tips, you’ll stay safe and connected while you recharge in the great outdoors — ready for any adventure!