For many campers, the line between camping and glamping has begun to blur, and here at Ark, we’re all for that!
We strongly believe that camping is even better when you can bring the creature comforts of home along with you. That’s why we developed the XO Power Distribution Hub, to allow you to power and monitor all your devices without taking away from your camping experience.
So, what exactly can you use a power hub for? In this guide, we break down the multiple uses and extensive benefits of these powerhouses.
The XO Power Distribution Hub: Enhancing Camping Comfort
The XO Power Distribution Hub is more than just a device; it’s a philosophy. Our goal is to empower campers to enjoy the convenience of modern technology without compromising the essence of camping.
As the 2022 Global Media Award winner at the 2022 SEMA show, the XO PDH has more than proven its precision quality and unmatched reliability – but don’t take it from us. Let’s look at a customer’s experience with the PDH.
James’ PDH Setup: A Customer Perspective
Let’s take a look at how James, one of our satisfied customers, maximises the potential of the PDH in his camping adventures.
With a standard setup using a Lithium 100aH battery, James has found the PDH to be a game-changer in these camping comfort areas:
Water Pump Switch
Useful for showers, washing dishes, and even rinsing the car when necessary.
Rooftent Power
The PDH powers into the rooftent, providing further flexibility. This power can be used to run additional lights or charge devices while sleeping.
Light Switches
Separate switches for interior and exterior lights. Controlling these through the app ensures the camp is well-lit without the need to get up.
Cigarette Socket
Used to create a charger hub, running phone and device chargers while stationary.
Additional Applications of the PDH
While James has a comprehensive setup, the PDH offers even more possibilities for enhancing your camping experience. If you’re still asking ‘what can I power with a PDH power hub?’ then we’ve got a few more essentials just for you:
Inverter Trigger Switch
Allocate a switch to trigger your inverter. Adding an inverter to your setup may allow you to run induction cooktops, charge power tools, or anything with a standard 240v house plug.
TV Switch
Link your 12V TV to a switch and power it on from your phone for convenient entertainment.
Air Compressor Switch
Connect a switch to your air compressor, allowing you to pump tyres using the off switch from your phone.
Fridge Switch
Allocate a switch to your fridge, eliminating the need to draw power continuously. This feature enables you to power the fridge only when necessary, especially during travel.
Portable Camp Kitchen
Power your way to delicious home-cooked meals on your off-road adventure with the PDH. Use it to power the ultimate portable camp kitchen complete with stoves, microwaves, and even mini ovens.
Power Your Adventures the Smart Way
The XO Power Distribution Hub is a versatile solution that goes beyond traditional camping setups. It empowers campers to bring the comforts of home to their outdoor adventures without compromising the essence of camping.
James’ setup is just one example of how the PDH can be customised to suit individual needs, and we hope you got a bit of inspiration from his success story. Plus, check out our canopy setup ideas for tips on how and where to mount your power distribution box.
At Ark, we’re committed to providing innovative solutions for modern camping and 4×4 needs. The XO Power Distribution Hub is a testament to our dedication to enhancing the camping experience.
Back in the “good old days”, heading bush in your 4×4 meant loading up a swag, an esky full of food and drink, a load of firewood and little more. While there are still certainly those purists out there who wouldn’t go camping any other way (nojudgement – just the essentials can be a great time!), for the rest of us times have certainly changed, largely thanks to portable power.
These days, the humble esky has been replaced with 12V fridges and freezers, keeping our food and drinks cooler for longer. Our entertainment options have gone from telling stories around the flames of a campfire to most of the same luxuries we enjoy at home, like TV and Netflix. And communication no longer means simply relying on the patchy reception of a UHF radio.
If you’re looking to enjoy all the creature comforts of home on your off-road adventures, then you need to ensure you have a portable power pack for camping that will go the distance and service your needs. Here’s a look at a few options for ensuring you have the right portable power station for your next trip bush.
Understanding the Importance of Portable Power
In the world of camping and 4×4 adventures, the concept of portable power is akin to having a secret weapon in your arsenal. It’s the unsung hero that enables you to venture further, stay connected, and enjoy the comforts of home even when you’re miles away from civilisation.
However, as we mentioned above, we all managed well enough with the just bare essentials for years; why exactly have portable power stations become so important for off-roading experiences? Here’s a quick rundown of just how effective and valuable these systems are for the modern day 4×4 adventurer.
Off-the-Grid Freedom
One of the primary appeals of camping and 4×4 adventures is the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life. Portable power stations empower you to embrace this freedom without completely sacrificing the modern conveniences you cherish. Whether you need to charge your phone, power essential appliances, or light up your campsite, portable power ensures you can do so even when you’re off the grid.
Safety and Preparedness
When you’re exploring remote or unfamiliar terrains, having access to reliable power can be a matter of safety. A portable power pack for camping allows you to keep your communication devices charged, ensuring you can call for help or access GPS navigation in case of emergencies. It’s your lifeline when you need it most.
Comfort and Convenience
Camping doesn’t mean you have to rough it entirely. With portable power, you can enjoy the comforts of home, from running a portable fridge to keeping your lights on during those pitch-black nights. It’s the key to elevating your outdoor experience and making it more enjoyable and convenient.
This is particularly effective when camping with the family. Imagine hooking up your screen to your portable power station, cosying up with the kids, and flicking on a film to watch beneath the stars. Now that’s what we call a magical experience!
Versatility for All Adventures
Portable power solutions come in various forms, from 12V control boxes to portable solar panels and self-contained systems like the ARKPAK APDC20. This versatility means you can tailor your power setup to suit the demands of different adventures. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend camping trip or a week-long 4×4 expedition, there’s a portable power solution that fits your needs.
Sustainable Energy
Embracing portable power can also align with sustainability goals. Many portable power options now include solar panels or the capability to charge from solar sources. This reduces your reliance on fossil fuels and minimises your environmental footprint, making your outdoor adventures more eco-friendly.
Peace of Mind
Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of portable power is the peace of mind it provides. It eliminates the uncertainty of running out of power during your adventure. With portable power at your disposal, you can focus on enjoying the journey, knowing that you have a reliable source of energy.
Types of Portable Power Solutions for 4×4 Enthusiasts
Of course, having something as powerful and functional as an ArkPak is sensational, but you still need to keep the battery charged. There’s a few ways to do this. One way is to keep the battery charged from your vehicle battery. This works well if you’re traveling day to day and not stopping in camp for more than a day at a time. But if you’re planning to set up camp for a few days or longer, then your best option to keep your battery charged is to utilise solar power.
A battery box is the name given to a portable box that can house a range of 12V batteries that can be used to power everything at your campsite from your fridge or freezer to your mobile phone chargers. The thing is, your basic battery box has been well and truly superseded.
Our patented ArkPak is a modern portable power station range that has taken the very basic concept of a battery box and improved it 100-fold. As the only “battery box” on the market that has a built-in AC-DC and DC-DC charger, investing in an ArkPak means there’s one less thing you need to worry about when you’re preparing to head bush.
Simply put, you choose a battery (whether it be a gel, lithium, AGM or something else), place it in the box, connect your powered devices and you’re good to go. A 5V USB 2.1 amp socket, 2x 12V accessory sockets, a 50A Anderson socket, external battery terminals, a low voltage cut out, manual isolator switch, time tracker tech, a battery management system with an LCD display and a 7-stage smart charger.
Let’s take a closer look at these two popular portable power packs and what they can offer on your next caming trip.
ArkPak 730 vs ArkPak 730 Pure Sine
Our ArkPak comes in two variations, the ArkPak 730 and the ArkPak 730 Pure Sine. Both of these top-of-the-range products will set you up for a fantastic camping or off-roading experience with their advanced features and technologies, but there are a few differences to be aware of.
The ArkPak 730 features a 300W modified sine inverter so you can plug in your 240V devices, while the ArkPak 730 Pure Sine features a 300W Pure Sine Wave inverter. This means you have the same kind of 240V power as your home has, no matter how remote you travel.
With ArkPak, you can plug in sensitive electronic devices such as drone and camera chargers, laptops and computers and even CPAP machines and keep them charged and powered as long as the battery has charge.
ARKPAK APDC20
If you’re looking for an even more powerful system, you might want to consider our new second generation ARKPAK APDC20. This advanced design packs a punch with its 20 amp DC-DC charger, 1000W Pure Sine inverter, in-built MPPT solar regulator, and four USB ports (three for Type A, one for Type C).
This powerhouse can charge all common deep cycle batteries direct from your vehicle. You can also run more than just lighting and phone chargers – think kitchenettes, mini fridges, coffee machines, and more.
You can also plug in your solar panels directly to the ARKPAK APDC20 to harness the power of the sun, meaning even more power to last you throughout the day and into the night.
Choosing the Right Portable Power Station
Selecting the ideal portable power station is a crucial step in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable camping or 4×4 adventure. With numerous options available, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and the demands of your outdoor excursions. Here’s a handy guide to help you choose the right portable power pack for camping or off-roading:
Power Capacity: The first consideration is the power capacity you need. Assess your energy requirements based on the devices and appliances you plan to power. If you only need a phone charger and kettle, for instance, something lighter will be enough. For more heavy-duty uses like fridges, coffee machine, and computer equipment, you’ll want to opt for something more power-hungry.
Battery Type: Most portable power stations typically come with either lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries – the ArkPak allows you to choose the best battery solution for you. Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, have a longer lifespan, and offer better performance, making them a preferred choice for most users. However, lead-acid batteries may be more budget-friendly and suitable for specific situations.
We wanted to ensure the ArkPak was flexible for all budgets and requirements by allowing you to select your own battery. Thanks to the removable and interchangeable battery, you’ll never need to send the unit away to service or replace your battery – simply unplug!
Portability: Consider how portable you need your power station to be. If you have limited space in your vehicle or require a versatile setup that can be moved in and out, a smaller and more lightweight option like the ArkPak 730 might be ideal. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more permanent installation, a larger unit may be suitable, like the ARKPAK APDC20.
Output Options: Examine the output options of the power station. Ensure it offers a variety of outlets, including AC, DC, and USB ports. This versatility allows you to charge and power different devices simultaneously.
Recharge Options: How will you recharge the power station during your adventures? Look for stations that offer multiple recharging methods, such as solar panels, vehicle charging, and standard electrical outlets. This flexibility ensures you can keep your power station charged wherever you go.
Solar Panels: Harnessing the Sun’s Energy on the Go
Of course, having something as powerful and functional as an ArkPak is sensational, but you still need to keep the battery charged. There are a couple of ways to do this:
Keep the battery charged from your vehicle battery. This works well if you’re traveling day to day and not stopping in camp for more than a day at a time.
If you’re planning to set up camp for a few days or longer, then your best option to keep your battery charged is to utilise solar power.
Solar technology has come a long way in the last decade or so, and portable solar stations are readily available and a very reliable option for campsite power. Ark has a number of solar options that will work hand in hand with your ArkPak or battery box.
The Amorphous Foldable Solar Panels are our premium solar offering and are available in both 30W and 60W, generating 2-4.2A per hour. These panels will work in low light and partial shade and are lightweight and compact so they don’t take up unnecessary space.
For a more budget-friendly option, check out the ArkPak Freedom Portable Solar Panels, available in 7W and 14W. While these are a bit less powerful than the Amorphous model, they’re great for quick trips into the bush or if you only need a touch of power on the go.
Consult the Experts at Ark for All Your Portable Power Needs
Having the gear you need to power your campsite is one of the key elements of modern camping, and Ark are the experts when it comes to portable power.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your upcoming adventure. Get in touch with the seasoned experts at ARK today, and discover how we can elevate your outdoor experience to new heights.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just beginning your journey into the wild, ARK has the power to transform your camping and 4×4 adventures. Get ready to embark on unforgettable experiences with ARK by your side!
It’s a sad fact that truly great free camps in NSW are becoming more and more rare in the modern day. But the thing is, there are still some absolute crackers out there that you need to experience while you still can! You’ll find one of the absolute best free campsites in NSW along Armidale Road where the mighty Macleay River meets Georges Creek, the appropriately named George’s Junction.
Georges Junction: One of NSW’s Best Free Camps
This sensational campground is found between Kempsey and Armidale in northern NSW along the rough and unsealed Armidale Road. Nestled along the banks of Georges Creek and the Macleay River, stunning mountains surround this open and grassy campsite. In the mornings you’ll be treated to the spectacular sight of the morning sunlight hitting the rock walls of the surrounding mountains while light mist rises from the valley.
There’s plenty of space at Georges Junction, so you’ll find it easy to stake your campsite claim and make it your own. Because this campsite is a designated Free Camp NSW TSR Camping Area, you can bring along your four-legged friends, and fires are permitted. There’s plenty of opportunity to collect firewood from the surrounding areas too!
One of the best parts of Georges Junction is the choice you have when it comes to setting up your camp. There’s the Top Area campsite with its open green-grass fields and odd gumtree to provide shade, or there’s the Point Campground which is sheltered by casuarina trees and situated down closer to the water if you prefer to be more sheltered.
The Top Area features bins and well-maintained pit toilets which makes it a favourite spot for families, and because the campsite is on a travelling stock route, there’s a good chance you’ll get to see herds of cattle or horses being moved through the area!
Things to do
One of the things that makes Georges Junction such a perfect spot to free camp is the activities that are on offer.
1. Kayaking Down the River
For those who like to glide above the water, the Macleay River is the perfect place for you to enjoy some quality time with your kayak or canoe. Indeed, some of the best campsites provide easy access to the water for you to launch from! There’s really something special about exploring the river with its towering rock walls and peaks on either side!
2. Swimming and Water Play
Both Georges Creek and the Macleay River offer plenty of swimming opportunities, and there are a number of safe child-friendly swimming holes. Just remember that this is a truly remote campsite with no phone reception so you’ll want to ensure the tin lids are properly supervised while they swim!
3. Wetting a Line
If you enjoy a spot of freshwater fishing, then you’ll find Georges Junction a treat. The Macleay River is home to the mighty Macleay River Bass – there’s even a nearby Bass Lodge, so you know you’re in for a good shot at landing a beauty!
4. Tackling the 4WD Tracks
If you’re a keen 4WDer, then exploring the tracks around the region will scratch that itch! The 10km long River Drive is a moderately difficult track that features six river crossings of varying difficulty that will see you exploring the banks of the Macleay River. The Track will take you to the spectacular Peach Trees Lookout which will give you some sensational views of the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
5. Take it Easy!
Georges Junction offers you the opportunity to do something we all need to do from time to time – Relax! It really is a serene spot that allows you the chance to kick back and take it easy, whether that’s enjoying a chat around the campfire or kicking it back in the shallows of the water with a cold one in hand.
Bring Your Portable Power Supply and take your Free Camping to the Next Level!
We mentioned above that Georges Junction is a truly remote campsite that is hours’ drive from any town and has no mobile phone coverage – let’s be honest, that’s one of the attractions to the place! The thing is, sometimes, you need access to power for a variety of reasons. Maybe you just want a way to keep your food and drinks cold so you can enjoy an extended stay in the wilderness.? Perhaps you want to enjoy some powered creature comforts at camp? Or maybe you need to power a CPAP machine or other medical device?
Regardless of your reason, having a campsite powered by a portable power supply will add a level of comfort to free campsites like Georges Junction that will take your free camping NSW experience to the next level.
One of the best options when it comes to a Portable Power Supply is an ArkPak. While many people choose to install a 12V power setup and second (or third) battery in their 4WD, camper trailer or caravan, an ArkPak features all the benefits of such a system, plus more, while proving to be a properly portable option that’s not fixed to a vehicle or trailer. The ArkPak is the only battery box on the market that has a built-in AC-DC and DC-DC charger as well as an in-built inverter, so it is a truly versatile option.
Here’s a look at just some of the benefits an ArkPak can provide you during your free camping trip to Georges Junction:
1. Keeping the Food and Drinks Cold
Trust us when we say that once you’re at Georges Junction, you’re going to want to stay there for as long as possible! The last thing you want is for your food to spoil or your drinks to get warm, so powering a portable fridge-freezer with an ArkPak will increase the amount of time you’re able to camp off-the-grid at Georges Junction. Couple your ArkPak with a solar system, and you have free power that will last almost indefinitely!
2. Keep the Music Playing and the Camera Batteries charged!
Everyone loves a tune or two at camp, and having a portable power system allows you to keep the music going without the risk of your speaker or music player’s batteries dying. Also, when you come to George’s Junction we guarantee you’ll want to take a snap or two, and an ArkPak will mean you can keep all your camera and phone batteries charged for the duration of your stay!
3. Creature Comforts
For many people, there’s nothing better than relaxing with a cold one at camp and watching a game of sports! An ArkPak means you can bring along a TV and keep it and a satellite receiver powered so you can enjoy the creature comforts of home right at your free campsite!
4. Medical Needs
There are many sufferers of conditions like sleep apnea and asthma who rely on powered medical devices such as CPAP machines and nebulizers to get through the day or night. For these people, free camping can be a little daunting. The beauty of having a portable power setup like an ArkPak is that you can visit remote free camps like Georges Junction with the confidence that your medical needs will be met.
Looking to up your Free Camping Game?
At ARK, we love nothing more than putting out money where our mouths are and experiencing free camps in NSW like Georges Junction for ourselves! We’re camping and off-road enthusiasts just like you who test all of our products, including our popular ArkPaks in real-world settings! We’ve been leaders in trailer parts, towing gear, and 4WD accessories for over 40 years, and are 100% Australian-owned and independent. So you can be sure that when you buy a product from Ark, you’re getting something that has been properly tried and tested in real Aussie conditions!
When it comes to setting up a canopy on your ute, there’s a load of information available out there on the internet. Just about every 4WD or camping website or blog has written a guide to setting up the ultimate touring canopy… but there’s a huge shortage of information when it comes to setting up your canopy as a tradie!
The thing is, having a functional canopy setup as a tradesperson is a must. Your ute is essentially your office, which makes your canopy your workplace, and equipping it with the gear you need to get the job done is essential. So we’ve decided to put together this ultimate guide to setting up your ute’s canopy for work. Read on for all the best ideas to take your tradie office to the next level!
Function, not Form
The first element to consider is what gear you’ll be housing in your canopy, which will determine how you set it up. For example, if you’re a chippy, the tools you need are going to be very different compared to those carried by a landscaper.
Unlike a touring canopy, designing your tradie canopy will come down to function, rather than form. Where a touring canopy is set up to look good, and provide easy access to things like a fridge or kitchen gear, a good tradie canopy needs to focus less on the looks and more on the functionality. For example, installing drawers that only become accessible once certain tools have been removed is not going to make your life easy!
When planning out your tradie canopy, make sure you list down all the gear your canopy will be housing. Consider housing tools and gear that you use regularly in an area where you can easily access them with minimal effort. On the flip side, it becomes less of a chore to move a few things to access a specific tool if it’s something you only use on occasion.
Power isn’t a “want” – it’s a “need”!
It used to be that having a power setup in your canopy was desirable, but not essential. If you ask us, those days are long gone. With petrol and wired tools becoming more obsolete every day, keeping your battery gear charged and ready to use at a drop of a hat is important. The last thing you want is for a couple of dead batteries to bring work to a standstill.
Setting up your canopy with a top-notch power setup will make sure the batteries for your tools are always charged, but there are additional benefits. You can install lighting in your canopy to make it easier to see on those early morning starts. You could install a fridge to ensure your lunch and energy drinks stay cool throughout the hot summer days.
The reasons why a decent power setup will benefit you as a tradie are practically endless. Let’s take a look at some of the power options you should consider for setting up your canopy.
Power Distribution Hub
Being able to control and monitor your power usage is essential when it comes to setting up a tradie canopy, as there is a wide range of power-hungry items that will draw from your setup. That’s where a 12V power management system like Ark’s SEMA award-winning XO Tech Power Distribution Hub is so essential.
The Power Distribution Hub is an all-in-one power management system, unlike any other 12V control box on the market. Firstly – and this is a key consideration when space is at a premium in your tradie canopy – it’s compact. It’s been specifically designed to fit just about anywhere, and because it’s Bluetooth features, you don’t need to access it to monitor your power usage – you can do that, straight from your smartphone.
Secondly, it has outputs galore! With four 10A controllable relays, a 50A Anderson connector, a 10A cig. socket, a 10A engel socket, a 15A merit socket, and dual 2.1A USB sockets, your power options are plenty. Plus, all outputs are protected with internal self-resetting fuses and an electronic controlled main relay for peace of mind.
Lastly, the Power Distribution Hub allows you to monitor a HUGE amount of information. Monitor in real-time battery voltage, current, power, time to discharge, total consumption, maximum current, total watt-hours, and used battery capacity. It even has the ability to monitor a water tank level! How smart is that!
Battery Box… or better!
Okay, so a battery box is good… but an ArkPak is better!
The ArkPak is essentially the ultimate battery box and the only one on the market that has a built-in AC-DC and DC-DC charger. It also features a 1000-watt pure sine wave inverter which means you can plug in your corded power tools directly. Other features include:
4 X 2.1A USB socket
1 X USB Type C
Two 12V accessory sockets
50A Anderson socket
Low voltage cut-out
Manual isolator Relay
Time tracker technology
Battery management system
20 Amp smart charge system
The ArkPak is the ultimate power source for your tradie canopy, without the need for an extensive dual battery system!
Harness the Power of the Sun
Sometimes when you’re on-site, accessing power can be difficult, especially if you often work in remote locations.
That’s why having a solar power option is a smart idea. Tradies can often be deterred from setting up solar panels due to the space they take up – we’ve already spoken about how important functionality is for a tradie’s canopy. Let’s face it, the last thing you want is to install delicate solar panels on the roof of your canopy and lose the ability to carry a ladder or other long gear.
There is a solution, however. Ark’s Amorphous Foldable Solar Panels allow you to charge your batteries on the go without taking up the space of rigid panels. Available in both 30W and 60W versions, they provide up to 4.2A per hour of charge, and work in low light and partial shade. Plus, because they fold up as small as 40cmx15cmx3cm (30W version), they don’t take up much space at all!
Additional Build Considerations
In addition to power, there are a few other considerations you should make when setting up your tradie canopy. Let’s take a look at four elements that are key to having the ultimate tradie canopy.
Drawers
Drawers are a no-brainer when it comes to setting up your canopy for trades purposes. There are also a number of options available. If you’re looking for a quick and relatively inexpensive option, then many off-road and camping retailers sell single and double drawers which can be adapted to your specific needs. Of course, because tradies needs are very different to those of campers, having custom drawers set up to suit your specific needs is an even better option.
Lights
Installing 12V LED strip lighting in your canopy will ensure you have plenty of light available to find what you need in your ute – regardless of how early you start, or how late you finish. LED strip lighting is an inexpensive way to provide lighting and draws very little power ensuring you have power on hand for what you need most.
Fridge
A 12V fridge/freezer isn’t just a great option for campers. Let’s face it, as a tradie burning a lot of calories every day and needing to remain hydrated in hot weather, chances are you’ll be bringing a lot of food and drink to site each day. A 12V fridge is the best way to store your food and drinks, and while it may take up a fair bit of space, we definitely put it on the “must have” list rather than the “like to have” list.
Awning
It’s a simple fact of being a tradie – you’re beholden to the weather. Whether it’s heavy rain or scorching sun, you’ll be glad to have a place where you can get out of the weather and take a breather while you’re on site. Installing an awning or two on the side of your canopy is a smart and relatively inexpensive way to provide you with a little bit of shelter should you need it.
Ark Understands the Needs of Tradies
100% Aussie-owned and independent, ARK have been the leaders in trailer parts, towing gear, and 4WD accessories for over 40 years.
Whether it’s 12V power systems and battery packs to power your worksite or towing gear to ensure your trailer can get to any site, the team at ARK have you covered. Get in touch with us today to learn how our expertise can help you set up your rig to suit your needs!
