Cool Tears Magazine 51956 CR 215 Lawrence, MI 49064
Letter from the Editor:
THE COMPANY I WORK FOR, (I have a day job) is allowing us to take a four week paid sabbatical for the first time! We are taking advantage of this opportunity and we’re going to explore the northeast US and the Canadian Maritimes. We’re very excited to have this chance and we’re looking forward to traveling more slowly than in years past.
A few years ago, we did a 12 day nearly 3600 mile loop from Michigan to Colorado, New Mexico, northern Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri before heading home. We visited childhood friends and family along that path. It was an amazing trip, but too fast and we missed too many things.
While this year's trip will be similar in mileage, our time spent is more than twice as long. We’re going to be slower travelers and we’re going to be able to experience the areas we’ll be in more. According to Overland Journal, our trip will be an overlanding trip. Overlanding is about exploration where the goal is to see and learn about our world, whether we’re on a weekend, week, month, or year long trip. We’re going to use our tiny camper and explore thousands of miles and everything that comes across our path: the scenery, the wildlife, and most importantly, the cultures.
To prepare for our trip, earlier this week, we received our Canadian Discovery Pass in the mail. It seems strange to me that my first national parks pass is a Canadian one and not US. I need to remember that the border that we share with our neighbors is just an imaginary line, even though we think of it often as a barrier. I need to remember that I can spend an equal amount of time in the car and see great things in Canada or Chicago. I've had the opportunity (through my day job) to live overseas and to travel to numerous countries across four continents. It’s time to explore closer to home and to learn more about my Canadian neighbors.
If you travel more than 100 miles from home when you camp, I’m challenging you to try to have the overlanding mindset and really experience what the area has to offer. Talk to the locals, do what the locals do, eat their food, support their local economy somehow whether it’s shopping at a farmer’s market, or eating in a local restaurant, or shopping at a locally owned store. Immerse yourself.
We have a lot of preparations to do before this month’s long trip. Most importantly, we’ll be installing a DC - DC charger, which will help ensure we have a topped up battery after a travel day. More on this in this issue and next.
Here's to making every outing count. Let's make this a season to remember!
Kitchen on Wheels
Easy Entertaining Appetizer Dips
BY ANNE COX
WHEN WE'RE CAMPING WITH FRIENDS one of the favorite times of the day is the pre-dinner happy hour, which often includes light snacks to hold our appetites to dinner, but sometimes, enough light snacks or small meals (like Spanish tapas) becomes the dinner!
These two dips can be made from simple, mostly shelf stable ingredients and they both come together in no time but they pack a flavorful punch! These are perfect before dinner or around the campfire at night.
Fun fact: Did you know that butter beans are the same as lima beans?! Don’t turn your nose on this recipe without trying it!
The first recipe is Tomato and Butter Bean Dip, or if you prefer a more fancy name - Spanish Creamy Butter Bean and Tomato Tapas. The second recipe we call Cool Tears Cowboy Caviar.
Ingredients
• 1 14 oz can of butter beans/lima beans, drained (we somteimes use Great Northern Beans too)
• 6 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 shallot
• 2 cloves garlic (more or less to your preference)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is great in this recipe)
• 2 tablespoons red wine or sherry vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
• Salt to taste
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
• Pita chips, crusty bread or crackers
Directions
1. Finely chop the shallot and garlic.
2. Add the shallot, garlic, 2 tablesoons olive oil, and 2 tablespoons tomato paste to a cold skillet
3. Saute over low heat, until the mixture gently bubbles
4. Add the paprika and stir.
5. Add in the drained beans, vinegar, and ¼ cup olive oil.
6. Stir to coat the beans and cook another minute or two until the mixture is warm.
7. Remove from heat and salt to taste.
8. I don’t like it to look like we’re putting beans on crackers or pita, so I like to use the back of a fork and lightly smash (or break open) most of the beans.
9. Then sprinkle the chopped parsley on top and serve.
Serving tip: If you cook this in a cast iron skillet, then bring it to the table and serve the dip right from the skillet. It will help keep the dip warm. Serve with pita chips, slices of crusty bread, or crackers.
Cool Tears Cowboy Caviar
Ingredients
• 1 14 oz can black beans
• 1 14 oz can black eyed peas
• 1 small can sweet corn
• ¼ cup chopped cherry tomatoes
• ¼ cup chopped bell pepper, pick your favorite color (Cool Tears orange is our preference)
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ bunch cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: 1 ripe avocado, diced
EITHER
• ¼ teaspoon of your favorite chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• Juice of one lime
OR
• ½ teaspoon (more to taste) of Tajín Clásico Seasoning (made with mild peppers, lime, sea salt)
OR
• ½ teaspoon (more to taste) of Tajín Habanero Seasoning (made with habanero chili peppers, lime, sea salt)
Directions
1. Chop everything that needs to be chopped
2. Drain the liquid from each of the cans that you open
3. Toss everything together in a bowl and mix thoroughly (if you are adding diced avocado, mix this in gently before serving)
4. Let sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the
flavors to blend
5. Serve with tortilla chips, crusty bread, pita chips, or crackers g
Hitting the Road in Style
Top 10 must have accessories for teardrop camping
SO, YOU'VE GOT YOURSELF A TEARDROP camper and you're ready to hit the open road. But hold up! Before you go, let's talk about some killer accessories that'll take your camping game to the next level. We've scoured Teardrop and Overlanding Reddit threads to bring you the top 10 must-haves for teardrop camping. Trust me, your future self will thank you for this.
1. Awning or Canopy: First things first, you're gonna want some shade. An awning or easy-up canopy is a gamechanger. It's perfect for escaping the sun or staying dry when the sky decides to
open up. Plus, it gives you extra living
BY COOL TEARS STAFF
space around your kitchen area. Win-win! Look for models that are easy to set up and pack away. Retractable awnings that attach directly to your teardrop can be convenient, while freestanding canopies offer more flexibility in placement. Consider size, UV protection, and water resistance. Some popular brands include ARB, Rhino-Rack, and Coleman.
2. Portable Toilet: Let's face it, when nature calls, you don't always want to answer in nature. A portable toilet paired with a pop-up privacy tent is the way to go. It's like having your own little bathroom wherever you roam. This can also open your world to becoming members of Harvest Host, which allows you to camp for “free” at farms, wineries, breweries, golf courses, etc. Free is in quotes because it is recommended to spend at least $30 at the business. Cassette toilets are popular for their ease of use and waste disposal. Luggable Loo which is a toilet seat on a 5 gallon bucket lined with a leak proof bag or the BLIKA portable folding toilet (lined with a bag) are popular choices. These both work exceptionally well, but the BLIKA folding toilet is nice if you have space constraints in your tow vehicle.
3. Solar Panels: If you're into off-grid adventures, solar panels are your new best friend. They'll keep your batteries juiced up so you can power your lights, fans, and other gadgets. Flexible panels can be mounted on your teardrop’s roof, while portable ones are great because you can move them around to catch the most rays if you’re in a treed camping site. Goal Zero, Renogy, and relative
newcomer to the teardrop industry LightLeaf Solar are all trusted brands in the camping solar world. Several teardrop manufacturers are now offering LightLeaf Solar panels as an option.
4. Camp Kitchen Setup: Food is life, even in the great outdoors. A good camp kitchen setup will make you feel like a camping chef extraordinaire. A two-burner propane stove is versatile for most cooking needs. Consider a collapsible sink and dish drying rack for easy cleanup. For food storage, a highquality cooler like Yeti or RTIC can keep food fresh for days if packed correctly. A splurge would be a 12V portable fridge/ freezer which can be a real game changer for longer trips. ICECO and Dometic are trusted brands of Cool Tears, but newcomer BougeRV now offers large, dual zone portable fridge/freezers that are designed to withstand the overlanding lifestyle.
5. Comfy Seating: After a long day of exploring, you'll want somewhere cozy to park your behind. Invest in some quality foldable camp chairs and tables. Your back will thank you. Look for chairs that balance comfort, durability, and portability. Look for options to hold your drink, phone, book or magazine too! If space allows, zero gravity chairs offer ultimate relaxation, but compact folding chairs save space. A small folding table is great for meals and games. Brands like Helinox and REI make lightweight, durable options.
6. Lighting: When the sun goes down, you don't want to be fumbling around in the
dark. LED string lights and lanterns are
perfect for lighting up your campsite and creating that cozy vibe. LED string lights can be powered by solar, battery packs, or your teardrop’s electrical system. Headlamps are essential for hands-free lighting, especially on those trips to the bathroom. Consider a headlamp with red and white LEDs where you can adjust the brightness. Luci lights are a great solar powered option and BioLite offers many options that are USB rechargeable.
7. First Aid Kit: Safety first, folks! A wellstocked first aid kit is a must-have for handling any bumps, scrapes, or "I thought I could jump that far" moments. Beyond basic supplies, include items
specific to your camping area and activities. This might include altitude sickness medication or specific allergy treatments. Consider taking a wilderness first aid course too! Kits from MyMedic come prepacked with supplies and they also provide a free online training course. We keep the MYFAK Mini Pro in our tow vehicle, so it’s always with us if needed.
8. Storage Solutions: Keep your gear organized and easily accessible with smart storage solutions. Roof racks are awesome for hauling bigger items like kayaks or bikes. They can also be used for mounting rooftop tents if you need a spare bedroom. Inside your teardrop, use organizers, storage cubes, or MOLLE panels to maximize storage space. External storage boxes can hold tools and other larger camping equipment. Thule and Yakima offer versatile roof rack systems. Many options of storage cubes and MOLLE panels can be found on
9. Portable Power Station: For those longer trips or when you're really off the beaten path, a portable power station is clutch. It's like having a little generator without the noise and fumes. Look for units with various output options (AC, DC, USB) to power different devices.
Consider capacity based on your needs - 500Wh is usually good for weekend trips, while 1000Wh or more is better for longer adventures. Jackery, Goal Zero, and Bluetti are all popular among campers. In the picture below, we use the Jackery to heat up water for coffee, tea, or doing dishes. That way we preserve our propane only for cooking or baking.
10. Tarps and Extra Shelter:
Last but not least, don't forget the tarps! These versatile bad boys can create extra shelter, block wind, or even make a makeshift movie screen. The possibilities are endless. Invest in a few different sizes and colors. Lighter colors reflect heat, while darker ones provide more shade. Learn a few key knots for secure setups. Consider a large tarp for creating a spacious shelter over your teardrop or over the galley. Smaller tarps can be used over picnic tables or seating areas if needed. Kelty and MSR offer durable, lightweight tarps that should last for years to come. Some people have luck with SUV tents that they use attached to the galley. CLAM or Gazelle quick set up tents are a great option too.
There you have it, campers! With these accessories in tow, you'll be living your best teardrop life in no time. Remember, the key to great
camping is being prepared, comfortable, and ready for adventure. So gear up, hit the road, and make some memories!
Want more tips and tricks? Check out the Teardrop Trailers and Overlanding communities on Reddit. They're full of folks who love nothing more than swapping camping stories and advice. Happy trails! g
Reflections on Recent Events
Shooting at
Yellowstone National Park BY COOL TEARS STAFF
AS TEARDROP CAMPERS, we often seek solace and adventure in our nation's beautiful parks. However, recent events in Yellowstone National Park serve as a stark reminder that even in these natural havens, we must remain vigilant.
On July 4th, 2024, Yellowstone experienced a harrowing incident involving an armed individual at Canyon Village, an area primarily housing park employees. The shooter, identified as Samson Lucas Bariah Fussner, was a 28-year-old employee of Xanterra Parks and Resorts, a private company authorized to operate within Yellowstone.
Fussner, who was authorized to be in the area, reportedly fired a semi-automatic rifle
towards a dining facility at Canyon Village. During an exchange of gunfire, Fussner was shot and killed and an officer was also shot. Thanks to the swift and courageous actions of park law enforcement rangers, a potentially tragic situation was averted, and no other physical injuries were reported. The incident, which occurred near a dining facility occupied by approximately 200 people, was quickly contained.
While such events are rare, they underscore the importance of being aware of our surroundings, even in seemingly idyllic settings. As we enjoy the beauty of places like Yellowstone, it's crucial to:
1. Familiarize yourself with park emergency procedures
2. Keep important contact numbers handy, including park dispatch
3. Be observant and report any suspicious activities to authorities
Yellowstone Superintendent Cam Sholly praised the rangers' heroic actions, reminding us of the dedication of those who protect our national treasures. As we continue to explore the great outdoors in our teardrop campers, let's do so with a renewed appreciation for the safety measures in place and the individuals who work tirelessly to keep these spaces secure for all to enjoy.
Remember, while incidents like this are uncommon, staying informed and prepared can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and memorable camping experience. g
Helinox: A Trusted Brand of Cool Tears since 2019
Tiny Camper Gatherings
BY COOL TEARS STAFF
LOOKING FOR THE LATEST SCOOP on teardrop camping events? We've got you covered, but we could use your help too! Our amazing community is always on the lookout for fresh stories and cool gatherings. By the way, you can find most of these events on the TearJerkers Forum, so be sure to check it out.
These meetups are like gold for teardrop lovers. You get to hang out with other camper owners, swap some great tips, and enjoy the unique vibe that teardrop camping offers. It's all about learning from each other and discovering new ways to make the most of your teardrop experience.
Whether you're a seasoned camper or just
starting out, consider dropping by one of these upcoming events. Connecting with fellow enthusiasts can really boost your camping game, spark your sense of adventure, and create some unforgettable memories. Let's come together and celebrate the joy of teardrop and squaredrop camping, building a fantastic community that loves the great outdoors.
Take a look at these upcoming tiny camper events. If you decide to attend one, we'd love to hear about your adventure – so don't be shy, share your story with us!
Teardrop and tiny camper events August
- September
August 1 - August 4
Liberty Bell Chapter, Hickory Run Gathering, Hickory Run State Park, White Haven, Penn
August 1 - August 6
Walk the Winds 2024, Cora, Wyoming
August 8 - August 11
Land of Lincoln’s August Gathering, Bo Wood Campground, Shelbyville, Illinois
New England’s August Gathering at Water’s Edge Campground, Lebanon, Connecticut
August 22 - August 25
Liberty Bell Chapter, Shawnee State Park, Schellsburg, Pennsylvania
August 22 - August 27
4th Annual Redwood Rendezvous, Van Duzen County Park - Pamplin Grove, Carlotta, California
August 23 - August 25
Badger State Chapter, North Wood County Park & Campground, Arpin, Wisconsin
Bluegrass Chapter, Starve Hollow State Recreation Area, Vallonia, Indiana
Carolinas Chapter, End of Summer by the Lake gathering, Oconee State Park, Mountain Rest, South Carolina
September 26 - September 29
Dixie Chapter Fall Gathering, Upper Improved Campground, Oxford, Alabama
September 27 - September 29
Atlantic Canada Chapter, Fall Colors Gathering, Hyclass Ocean Campground, Havre Boucher, Nova Scotia, Canada g
Merchandise available from Bonfire
NOTE: One of the great things about having a digital magazine is the ability to link you directly to the products or services that you want to hear more about. Some of the links on our website or in the magazine are affiliate links where we earn a small commission on goods that you purchase. These commissions help us to continue to defray the costs of publishing this magazine. You may notice as you read through the magazine that if you put your mouse over any ad or hyperlink, the screen may flash briefly. You can click on that picture or hyperlink and it will take you directly to more information. We are not affiliates for everything that we link to.
Cool Tears also participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to help small businesses like this to earn a small fee by linking products to Amazon that you may be interested in.
We appreciate your support. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact either of us at Lisa@ cooltears.com or Anne@cooltears.com
Harvest Hosts is a membership program that provides access to a network of wineries, farms, breweries, museums and other unique attractions that invite RVers to visit and stay overnight. Harvest Hosts now allows clamshell and teardrop trailers, but you may NOT use your outdoor cooking facility. Click the logo below to get 15% off the regular yearly price. We've stayed at breweries, wineries, farms, and art studios in our local area as well as across the country.
Capture The Great Outdoors
Enter the 2025 Cool Tears and Tiny Campers Calendar Photo Contest BY ANNE
READY TO MAKE our fifth annual calendar contest a hit? We need your stunning photos of teardrops, squaredrops, and other tiny campers to grace the pages of our 2025 Cool Tears and Tiny Campers calendar.
We're scouting for show-stopping photos that capture the essence of tiny campers set against awe-inspiring landscapes. We've featured winners from a host of countries,
including the US, Canada, Australia, the UK, Spain, and Norway. Snag one of the top 13 spots, and not only will your photo be published, but you'll also score a free calendar. Are you a Patreon patron? You'll get a complimentary calendar, too, just like previous years. Plus, your entries might make it into the Cool Tears and Tiny Campers Magazine or get featured on our social media channels.
COX
Contest Timing: Send in your snapshots by October 11, 2025.
The Nitty Gritty Rules:
• Where to shoot: Outdoors, where the magic happens!
• Quality Matters: High-resolution digital images only, folks.
• Size: A minimum of 1MB; the bigger, the better. Most smartphones fit the bill.
• Filters: Feel free to tweak or filter your pics before sending.
• What Not to Submit: No negatives, printed photos, or links to online galleries.
• Orientation: Landscape mode, please. If you're using a phone, flip it sideways.
• Info to Include: Your name, the shot's location, whether the camper is DIY or store-bought, and the photo title (if you've got one).
By sending us your photos, you're giving Cool Tears the green light to use them across our media platforms via a royalty-free perpetual license. Don't worry; we'll give you photo creds. Also, make sure you've got the okay from everyone visible or any private property captured in your snaps. We'll take care of blurring out license plates.
Submit to: Anne@cooltears.com
Key Dates:
• Submission Deadline: October 11, 2025
• Winner Notification: October 18, 2025
• Pre-Orders Start: November 1, 2025
• Shipping Starts: Mid-November
Ready, set, shoot!
Below are some of the submitted pics over the years. g
Photo 1 submitted by Sam Van Fleet. Photo 2 submitted by Lucy McNellis. Photo 3 submitted by Curtis Ware. Photo 4 submitted by Adam Cowie.
Never Run Out of Juice Again
Why your camper needs a DC - DC charger BY LISA ADAMS
INSTALLING A DC TO DC CHARGER
on your tiny camper can be a game-changer for your camping experience. This device ensures that your trailer's battery is efficiently charged while you’re on the move, using the power from your tow vehicle's alternator. Unlike traditional methods, a DC to DC charger optimizes the charging process, providing a steady and regulated flow of power, which helps to extend the lifespan of your trailer's battery. Whether you're on a long road trip or spending extended periods off-grid, this setup guarantees you have a reliable power source for your lights, appliances, and other
essential devices, enhancing your overall travel experience.
Each year, we take a 10 to 14 day, multi-state trip where we often stay in state or national forests with no electricity. We have a 100Ah lithium battery, a 12-volt fridge, and a 130 watt solar panel. The solar panel is a flexible, portable panel and it’s not mounted on the teardrop. Our home base is the Midwest and we have trees…a lot of trees. Even with a 25 foot cable on the solar panel, it can be difficult to chase the sun because of tree cover. When we have had a few back to back longer (4+
hour) driving days, we’ve arrived to set up camp with a less than optimal charge on our lithium battery.
Last fall, we were in the Adirondacks and had perfect weather for the end of September/ early October. Every day was sunny and mid 70s F. Most of the trip, we were hooked up to shore power and we were going to boondock for a few days as we were heading home. We started driving with 13.4 volts on the teardrop battery only to arrive at our destination with 12.0 volts. Our drive day was rainy and when we got to our site for the night, it was still raining, so zero solar. We ran out of battery sometime the next day while we were out hiking. For reference, 12 volts on a lithium battery is at 40%.
Why did this happen? Because the tow vehicle battery/alternator just can’t put out enough energy through the 7-pin connector to charge a battery, especially a lithium battery, and keep the fridge running.
So here’s what we view as our options:
1. Add a second lithium battery
2. Mount solar on the teardrop so it can get some charge while driving
3. Only camp where we have electric hookups after long drive days
4. Remove the positive wire from the 7-way plug and tape it off (yes, some people do this)
5. Install a DC - DC charger
1. We ruled out adding another battery due to cost and space constraints, although it may be possible in the future to put in one larger battery. 2. Mounting a solar panel is feasible, but it doesn’t solve the issue of rainy days or tree covered sites. 3. We’re not fans of being
in campgrounds all the time. We love having a teardrop because it allows us to go places that other people can’t! Plus, we travel with dogs. They are always on leash, but they can be barky around other dogs. So camping away from others is better…for everyone. 4. Most trailer electrical systems, if done correctly, isolate the batteries, so your trailer battery should not deplete your tow vehicle battery. I've ruled this out, because it would be good to have some charging instead of none. 5. We’ve settled on installing a DC - DC charger to ensure we have the fullest charge possible when we set up camp.
Key Factors to Consider
When choosing a DC-DC charger for your travel trailer, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you get the most suitable and efficient option for your needs:
1. Battery Type: Different batteries (leadacid, AGM, lithium) have different charging requirements. DC-DC chargers can adjust their charging profile to match the specific needs of your battery type, which helps to extend battery life and optimize performance.
2. Charger Capacity: The size of the DC-DC charger you need depends on the capacity of your battery and your energy usage. For instance, a 200Ah battery typically requires a 40A charger. The charger capacity should be around 20-30% of the battery’s capacity for optimal charging.
3. Alternator Compatibility: It’s important to ensure that the charger is compatible with your vehicle's alternator. Smart alternators in modern vehicles can have variable voltage outputs, so you need a charger
that can handle these variations without damaging your battery or alternator.
4. Installation and Wiring: Proper installation is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your DC-DC charger. Ensure you use appropriately gauged wires and consider using Anderson connectors for easy setup. The location of installation (vehicle vs. trailer) can also impact performance, so follow manufacturer guidelines closely.
5. Dual Input Options: Some DC-DC chargers come with dual input capabilities, allowing them to charge from both the alternator and solar panels. This feature can provide more flexibility and reliability, especially if you travel in areas with limited sunlight..
6. Energy Usage While Driving: If you plan to power appliances while driving, account for their energy consumption in your charger selection. For example, if you need to power a fridge and charge devices, you will need a higher capacity charger to compensate for this additional load
By considering these factors, you can select a DC-DC charger that will effectively meet your power needs and ensure the longevity and performance of your trailer's battery system.
Narrowed List of Chargers
There are so many DC-DC chargers on the market today. Knowing the information above is key to making a choice that’s right for you. We’ve narrowed our personal list down to these three charge controllers and we’ll be putting in an order soon.
1. Renogy DCC30S: 12 volt 30 amp DC - DC battery charger
2. Victron Orion XS 12 volt 50 amp DC - DC battery charger
3. REDARC BCDC124OD: 12 volt 40 amp DC - DC battery charger
Overview: The Renogy DCC30S 30A Dual Input DC-DC On-Board Battery Charger is a comprehensive solution designed to charge your auxiliary battery from your vehicle’s alternator and solar panels simultaneously. It is compatible with multiple battery types, including AGM, GEL, and lithium, and features an MPPT solar charge controller to maximize solar input efficiency.
Pros:
• Dual Input Capability: Allows simultaneous charging from both the vehicle’s alternator and solar panels.
• MPPT Solar Controller: Integrated MPPT controller ensures efficient solar charging.
• Multi-Battery Type Compatibility: Supports AGM, GEL, and lithium batteries.
• Built-In Isolator: Protects the starter battery from over-discharging.
• Temperature Compensation: Adjusts charging based on battery temperature to prevent overheating.
Cons:
• Limited to 30A Output: May not be sufficient for larger battery systems requiring higher amperage, but considering most teardrops have around a 100 aH battery, this may be ok.
• Complex Installation: Installation may be more complex and require professional assistance.
Victron Energy Orion XS 12/1250A DC-DC Battery Charger (ORI121217040)
Overview: The Victron Energy Orion XS 12/12-50A DC-DC Battery Charger is engineered for high-performance DC-DC charging in dual battery systems, particularly useful for vehicles with intelligent alternators. It offers fully configurable input and output currents, ensuring top-tier performance and safety. The charger is designed to operate efficiently even in high temperatures, thanks to its innovative cooling technology.
Pros:
• High Efficiency: Delivers 98% efficiency without the need for fans.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows for full remote monitoring and configuration via the VictronConnect app.
• Adaptive Charging Algorithm: Includes customizable algorithms for different battery types.
• Parallel Capability: Can connect multiple units to increase output.
• Comprehensive Protection: Overload, short circuit, and temperature protection.
Cons:
• Complex Installation: May require
professional installation for optimal performance.
• Higher Price Point: More expensive compared to lower amperage models.
• Availability: Sometimes back-ordered, leading to potential delays.
Price and Warranty:
Price: $330
Warranty: 5 years
Redarc BCDC1240D 40A In-Vehicle DC to DC Battery Charger
Overview: The Redarc BCDC1240D is a robust and durable DC to DC battery charger that can handle harsh conditions and high temperatures. It is designed to charge all major battery types, including lithium, AGM, GEL, and standard lead-acid. This charger also features a built-in MPPT solar regulator.
Pros:
• Durable: Brand is known robust design to be used in harsh conditions.
• MPPT solar regulator: Built in for efficient solar charging.
• Multi-Battery Type Compatibility: Compatible with all major battery types.
• Dual Input Capability: Allows simultaneous charging from both the vehicle’s alternator and solar panels.
Cons:
• Higher price point: higher cost compared to other models.
• Complex Installation: May be complex and space-consuming.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Limited Bluetooth and app connectivity compared to competitors.
Price and Warranty:
Price: Approximately $450
Warranty: 2 years
Conclusion
A DC to DC charger is not just an upgrade but a necessity for those who love off-grid camping. It will offer peace of mind by ensuring that your battery remains charged, no matter the driving conditions or campsite environment. We will be taking a four week trip early this fall and we plan to be off-grid as much as possible. Upgrading our electrical system with a DC to DC charger will allow us to take control of our power needs and enjoy your outdoor adventures to the fullest with this essential addition.
In our next issue, we’ll let you know which of the above charge controllers we purchased and why and we’ll go through the installation process. g
Transform Your Roadtrip with Layla
AS WE CONTINUE our series on AI trip planning, we turn our attention to Layla (formerly known as Roam Around), an innovative online trip planner that promises to revolutionize the way we prepare for our adventures. For fans of tiny trailers and teardrop campers, Layla's ability to craft personalized itineraries based on user preferences can simplify the process of planning the perfect road trip. Whether you're looking to explore national parks or discover hidden gems along the way, Layla
offers a seamless experience from inspiration to booking. In this article, we'll delve into how Layla works, its benefits, and potential drawbacks, helping you decide if this AIpowered tool is the right fit for your next camping excursion.
Layla: The AI-Powered Online Trip Planner
Layla is an AI-powered online trip planner
The AI-powered itinerary maker BY COOL TEARS STAFF
designed to simplify travel planning by providing personalized recommendations, itineraries, and booking options. Initially known as Roam Around, Layla has transformed into a comprehensive travel assistant under the guidance of industry veterans and substantial investment from travel titans such as Booking.com and Skyscanner co-founders.
How Layla Works
Layla leverages artificial intelligence to offer travel planning services through both its website and mobile app. The platform utilizes AI to recommend destinations based on user preferences, which are gathered through an interactive chat interface. Users can ask Layla for destination ideas, accommodation options, and activity suggestions, all tailored to their specific interests and travel dates. Layla also incorporates multimedia content, particularly videos, to provide a more immersive and realistic preview of potential travel experiences.
The process begins with users inputting their travel preferences, including desired destinations, activities, and budget constraints. Layla then curates a list of recommendations, which can be further refined through user interaction. The platform also allows for seamless booking through partnerships with major travel service providers like Booking.com and Skyscanner, ensuring a comprehensive travel planning and booking experience.
Our Results
We’re putting AI travel technology to the test. We’ll plan a week-long trip in our home area so we can quickly validate if the AI tool
is hallucinating or not. A hallucination, in AI terms, occurs when a large language model, which powers AI chatbots, creates false information. I will ask each AI travel tool to plan a week-long camping trip in southwest Michigan. We’ll tell the tools that we like to kayak, hike, bird watch, and take wildlife or nature photos. We travel with pets and enjoy beautiful gardens, art galleries, and great local food.
Layla provided a breakdown of what to do on each of the seven days, including morning, afternoon, evening activities, and recommended hotels to stay in. After a quick prompt reminding Layla that we were camping, it recommended stays in area state parks. To officially add them to the suggested itinerary, I had to create a free user account, but then it prompted me to subscribe (which I did not). The monthly fee is currently $29.99, or a yearly fee of $99.00, with a one-week free trial.
With the exception of one morning, the suggestions were perfectly planned. Layla recommended great hiking and kayaking locations, visiting an art gallery and a botanical garden. One day it suggested an activity in Detroit, which is nearly a three-hour drive from southwest Michigan. The evening suggestions for dinner were excellent choices and each was a locally-owned restaurant. Morning and evening activities were well planned and are giving me some great ideas for our family that is coming into town from out of state. The afternoon activities, however, were problematic and I would consider them a hallucination. Layla seems to believe that we can do a morning activity near the Lake Michigan shores (far west side of the state), then travel to Detroit (far east side of the
state) for a tour or activity, and then come back to the far west side for dinner. If I was willing to sign up for a paid subscription, I’m sure that this would be easily corrected.
The user interface of Layla is very easy to navigate - I prefer it to AdventureGenie, which we covered in our last issue.
. 2. Immersive Content: By incorporating real-life videos and multimedia content, Layla offers a vivid preview of potential travel destinations, enhancing user engagement and decision-making.
3. Ease of Use: The interactive chat interface
Pros of Layla
1. Personalized Recommendations: Layla’s AI-driven approach ensures that travel recommendations are highly personalized, taking into account user preferences and interests. This makes the planning process more relevant and tailored to individual needs
and intuitive design make it easy for users to navigate the platform and find relevant travel information without the need for extensive research or multiple app usage. It’s set up like a Google chat session and the “voice” of Layla seems like you’re talking with a friend.
4. Comprehensive Planning: Layla covers all aspects of travel planning, from destination
discovery to itinerary creation and booking, providing a one-stop solution for travelers. There are links to the activities right in the responses.
5. Collaborative Features: The platform allows users to collaborate with travel companions, making it easier to plan group trips and ensure that everyone’s preferences are considered.
Cons of Layla
1. Account Requirement: Users must create an account and sign in to access Layla’s features, which may be a deterrent for those seeking quick travel ideas without commitment. I was only allowed a few prompts before I reached my free limit.
2. AI Limitations: While Layla’s AI is advanced, it may not always accommodate extremely specific travel needs or preferences, leading to occasional generic recommendations.
3. Dependency on Partners: Layla’s effectiveness is partly dependent on its partnerships with booking platforms. Any issues with these partners could affect the overall user experience. This is probably why Layla first suggested hotels for me to stay in instead of campgrounds in the area.
4. Learning Curve: New users might require some time to fully understand and utilize all the features that Layla offers, especially those not familiar with AI-based tools.
Conclusion
Layla stands out as a powerful tool for modern
travelers, combining AI technology with rich multimedia content to deliver a highly personalized and engaging travel planning experience. While it has some limitations, its comprehensive approach to travel planning, ease of use, and collaborative features make it a valuable resource for both individual and group travelers. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, detailed itineraries, or seamless booking options, Layla’s innovative platform is designed to meet a wide range of travel needs efficiently and effectively. I will sign up for a monthly subscription and try it for a month since we are still planning our fall trip to the Canadian Maritimes. Based on Layla’s success in planning the majority of each day’s activities, I would trust it to find some hidden gems that we haven’t heard about yet. g
