LuminAid solar charged, inflatable LED light

Cool idea, but a little heavy for lightweight backpacking at 4.5 oz:

http://luminaid.gostorego.com/luminaid-solar-light.html

That's true. I'm still working on reducing my pack weight. I've only recently begun going lightweight. I've got the bug! :o)

Buying a scale is probably the best ultralight purchase you can make. Then start weighing everything. You will be surprised. Some stuff seems pretty heavy but isn't bad while other stuff is surprisingly heavy. Then come back here and get ideas for lightening your load. The quickest route is probably to just put the entire list on the "Gear List" forum and wait for people to respond. If you decide you want to replace something for which there are many options (like replacing your tent) then coming back here (to the Gear section) is a great place.

I really don't feel that 4.5oz for a light source is all that heavy since the trade off is that it is a lot cheaper than a headlamp, waterproof and you are not wasting batteries or have to worry about charging them. My only consideration with it has been the durability so I would like to know more about that. How high is it when it is a pillow also or what are the rough dimension?

Looking forward to seeing that in action / pics!

Yeah, 4.5oz does seem like alot, but it is rechargeable, so on long trips, you don't have to worry about burning through batteries, especially if you stay up at night reading or chatting it up.

As far as durability goes, we'll see. I assume they're meant to last since the company sends these to disaster areas/third world countries for them to use for lighting where access to electricity is scarce. The material is pretty thick, so I'm not too worried. The pictures show the light fully inflated.

How far does to light go out for a usable distance if you were to use it while hiking? Is it enough that you would feel safe for hiking with it at night?

Since its more of a lantern, I wouldn't rely on it as a primary hiking light. It does put out enough light to walk around a trail, but for route finding and backcountry hiking, it'd be dicey. The light shines backwards too, so if you were carrying it in your hand, you'd be staring at the light too. It's work poetry well I suppose, if you dangled it above you, like on a trekking or fishing pole strapped to your pack.

I'll take it out tonight or tomorrow to a nearby park and take some pictures. Its been cloudy here in seattle for the first time in months, so alot of city lights/moonlight is reflecting back, so it hasn't been very dark, but i'll see what I can do.

Edward,

Could you elaborate a bit upon your moving avatar?

Daryl

The weight is now down to 3 oz.
http://www.luminaid.com/product/luminaid-solar-light/

I've used this and really like it as well. Not a good headlamp replacement but nice in a tent. The Luci by Mpowerd is a little different, but same concept, and is a nice piece of gear too.