‘Off-grid travel boosted by new solar-powered comforts post-Covid’

About 30 years ago, young Canadian psychologist Philip Tetlock immersed himself in the largest future prediction study ever conducted. He was shocked to discover that the expertise of good predictors lay with ordinary people who had a sense of wonder and an endless curiosity about what the future might bring.

In response to the current pandemic, the experts are already predicting a range of futuristic ideas. Some of these include, rapid virus testers, walk-through sanitisers, hygienic aeroplane seats, middle-seat-replacing sneeze guards, hygiene-focused travel kits, inflatable face shields, in-flight janitors, digital alternatives to in-flight magazines, hotels with touchless access to limit in-person services such as receptionists, and even sci-fi-inspired face shields that have your head in a plastic bubble! Basically anything to give travel-industry professionals and consumers more peace of mind about our uncertain future.

The bottom line is, travel as we knew it, is no longer something we can take for granted. There is now more of a need to keep away from crowds, and a need to be cautious about simple tasks, such as checking into a hotel or taking a guided tour. This also means choosing to avoid busy urban centres. Instead, we are seeking alternative ways to get away and explore.

Off-grid travel is one area that’s gaining popularity. Whether it’s on a sail boat, in a remote mountain cabin, a luxurious off-road caravan or an RV decked out with the basics, going off-grid has never felt so right or so comfortable.

The biggest game changer for off-grid travel is solar power. Even a basic camping set-up, like the one we are using on our seniors gap year, offers relative comfort compared with those of the past. Apart from a quality tent to ensure a good night’s sleep, a basic off-grid battery power set-up with a solar blanket will keep the lights on and the fridge running, which can make a world of difference.

And solar power is offering another fantastic solution to that long-standing need for a shower in the bush. In the past, limited on-board water meant the idea of a shower, let alone a long one, could only be dreamed of. But now, the basic collection of materials, such as a piece of scrap wood, a plastic cup, a shower curtain, a piece of plastic and a simple shower hose pump (to circulate the water) means we can now (after a quick prewash) enjoy a delightful 20-minute shower from as little as just one litre of water! How nice is it to crawl into bed feeling so fresh?

What off-grid gadgets do you love that make a world of difference?