Gear Showcase: Power and Lighting

Photo By: Last Light

As everything becomes more technology dependent, the need for more readily accessible power in your rig or at your campsite increases. From solar panels to rechargeable batteries to convenience receptacles, we’ve got you covered this month. In addition, we shed some light on the latest and greatest illumination just in time for sunset to come earlier as we transition into the heart of fall. This month’s theme: more light and more power for your overlanding adventures.

Boss Lighting — SL-8 LED Light Bar

The Boss Lighting SL-8 is engineered to deliver unmatched output in a streamlined, low-profile design. Measuring 24 inches, this powerhouse produces a staggering 28,000 lumens, providing crystal-clear long-range visibility without compromise. Built for overlanders, off-road enthusiasts, and professionals who expect reliability in every condition, the SL-8 combines brute strength with refined engineering to push beyond the limits of traditional lighting.

At the heart of its performance is Boss Lighting’s patented cooling technology. This innovation keeps the system running at optimal temperatures, ensuring the LEDs maintain consistent brightness and long life even during extended operation. Paired with full dimming capabilities built into every unit, the SL-8 offers total control—whether blasting maximum output across a desert track or dialing down the intensity for camp setups and close-range tasks. This adaptability makes it as practical as it is powerful.

Durability is central to the SL-8’s design. Housed in slim anodized aluminum, it is resistant to corrosion and weather, while weighing just 10 pounds to minimize stress on mounting points. Its rugged construction withstands vibration, impact, and the extreme operating range of -40°C to +60°C, making it as dependable in freezing alpine passes as it is under scorching desert sun. A waterproof-connected 12-foot cable, 8-foot switch lead, and illuminated push-button dimmer make installation straightforward, while built-in reverse polarity and short-circuit protection safeguard the system in demanding conditions.

The SL-8 is more than a light bar—it’s a trusted tool for those who venture beyond daylight. From lighting up remote campsites to providing safe passage through technical terrain, it delivers performance without compromise. Proudly assembled in the USA and backed by Boss Lighting’s lifetime warranty, the SL-8 represents the pinnacle of lighting innovation: unmatched output, patented cooling, and precision control when it matters most.

MSRP: $1,595.00

Last Light – Strike 1800 Headlamp

The Strike 1800 Headlamp from Last Light was built for those who demand absolute reliability in the harshest conditions. Designed with the overlander, hunter, and backcountry explorer in mind, this headlamp pushes far beyond ordinary lighting gear. Every detail has been engineered to perform in the dark hours when visibility and durability matter most.

Machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Strike 1800 isn’t just tough—it’s built to thrive in rugged terrain. At its core, it boasts 1800 lumens, casting a wide beam that cuts through the blackest nights. The intuitive controls include multiple brightness levels, a dedicated red-light mode for preserving night vision, and a moonlight mode that stretches runtime up to 75 hours. Its memory function ensures the light always powers back on to your last setting, while the lockout feature prevents accidental activation when packed away.

The Strike 1800 is powered by a high-capacity, rechargeable battery and charges quickly via USB-C, ensuring you’re always ready to go. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, it performs without hesitation in rain, snow, or while crossing streams. The lightweight, balanced headband makes extended wear comfortable, and the low-profile design allows it to seamlessly fit over hats, beanies, or helmets. Or transfer it to a day pack with the hat/backpack clip.

More than just a headlamp, the Strike 1800 is a dependable tool that overlanders and adventurers can trust for their go to lighting. Whether you’re setting up camp on a desert plateau, mechanicing off grid, or navigating backcountry roads long after dark, the Strike 1800 was built to keep you moving forward when others would turn back.

MSRP: $95.00 (Currently on sale for $90.00)

Midland USA — GXT67PRO GMRS 5-Watt Walkie Talkie

When overlanders set out on the trail, reliability is non-negotiable. Whether traversing through remote desert tracks or navigating dense forest trails, communication can mean the difference between a smooth adventure and a logistical nightmare. The Midland GXT67PRO GMRS handheld two-way radio is designed to keep overlanders connected when cell phone service is spotty or nonexistent.

The GXT67PRO delivers 5 Watts of power, delivering maximum GMRS range for handheld communication. Overlanders often travel in groups or split up to take on other adventures like hikes and having a radio that can cut through distance and terrain is invaluable. With 5 Watts of power, the GXT67PRO ensures groups can stay in touch.

Equally important is battery performance, and Midland has equipped the GXT67PRO with up to four days of battery life. Extended backcountry travel often means limited opportunities for recharging and dependable power source is critical. For multi-day expeditions where battery life matters, knowing that the radio won’t power down mid-trip provides peace of mind.

The GXT67PRO is also repeater capable, giving overlanders the ability to significantly extend range in challenging environments. When traveling across mountainous regions or spread out over wide expanses, this enhances connectivity and keeps communication lines open far beyond typical handheld limits.

Durability is another standout feature of Midland’s GXT67PRO. Built with an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, the GXT67PRO is engineered to handle the difficulties of the toughest trails and off-grid terrain. Whether it’s a sudden rain storm, day on the water, or dust of the desert, this radio is designed to perform in the toughest environments. 

Despite its heavy-duty build, the radio remains easy to use. With intuitive menu navigation, even newcomers to GMRS communication can quickly get the hang of it. The straightforward interface means users can focus on the journey ahead, knowing they have communication they can count on.

For overlanders, equipment is more than just gear, it’s a lifeline. The GXT67PRO keeps its users safe so they can communicate when emergencies or difficulties pop up. With this reliable communication and NOAA Weather Radio alerts, adventurers can receive life-saving alerts and make safety top of a mind.

The Midland GXT67PRO brings together the essentials: power, endurance, durability, and range. It’s a radio built not only to perform, but to withstand the unpredictable challenges of life off-grid, making it a must-have item for outdoor exploration.

MSRP: $199.99

READ MORE: Gear Showcase: Campsite & Camp Kitchen

Renogy — ShadowFlux N-Type Anti-Shading Solar Panel 120W & 200W

The world’s first rigid solar panel with cell-level Shadow Management Technology, Renogy’s ShadowFlux is built to solve one of solar’s biggest frustrations: shading. Even a small shadow can reduce a traditional panel’s output by 30–50%. With ShadowFlux, each cell works independently, so shaded areas only affect the cells in shadow—not the entire panel. The result is up to 30% more energy harvest in real-world conditions compared to conventional rigid panels.

When traditional panels drop to near-zero from shade, ShadowFlux maintains up to 85% output.

Built for the Heat

Hot weather is a solar killer: high cell temperatures can slash efficiency and even create dangerous hot spots. ShadowFlux combats this with anti-hotspot technology and N-type high-efficiency cells that keep panels running cooler and more stable in scorching conditions. In lab tests simulating 1,000 hours at 85 °C / 185 °F and 85% humidity (extended to 3,000 hours), ShadowFlux maintained safe operation with less than 5% power loss — proving it’s built for long summers and desert heat.

Proven to Last Longer

Durability is more than a claim; it’s been independently verified. ShadowFlux underwent over 48 rigorous tests, audited by an IECEE CBTL-accredited lab, including: Thermal cycling from 85°C / 185°F to –40°C / -40°F for 600 cycles. Impact resistance with hail and 100 lb sandbag drops. Mechanical load testing of 5,400 Pa snow and 2,400 Pa wind, plus 1,000 dynamic load cycles. Wet leakage testing under saline water with 1,500 V DC applied.

Results: No cracks, no leakage, no failures. ShadowFlux panels are built to survive road vibration, mechanical stress, heavy weather, and years of real-world use.

Designed for Mobile Living

Available in 120 W and 200 W models, ShadowFlux features a compact footprint, is 7% smaller and 10% lighter than conventional rigid panels, and comes with an IP67 rating for protection against dust, water, and stress. Perfect for RVs, campervans, boats, or cabins where roof space is limited and durability is non-negotiable. Renogy offers a complete off-grid power solutions — from batteries and inverters to monitoring tools, DIY guides, and videos — customers can build a reliable, long-lasting solar system with confidence.

MSRP: 120W – $129.99 | 200W – $239.99

Scanstrut — Ventura Series 125V 20A AC Outlet

With its adventure-ready design, the Ventura 125V Outlet delivers instant mains power outside your RV, perfect for electric grills, BBQs, outdoor coolers, and all your favourite home comforts.

Whether you’re lounging at the beach, exploring the mountains, or camping with friends, you’ll always have access to reliable outdoor power. Using the Ventura outlet is effortless. Just park, lift the waterproof lid, and plug-in – power is at your fingertips.

Engineered with Scanstrut’s renowned marine-grade innovation, this outlet is rigorously tested for UV resistance and meets IP68 & IP69K waterproofing standards (with the lid closed). Built with 316 stainless steel components, it ensures durability and long-lasting performance in any environment.

The Ventura Series is the result of extensive research, testing, and development, offering a sleek, compact design that seamlessly integrates with the other products in the range, including exterior sockets like power, water, and solar. Upgrade your RV’s exterior with a clean, sleek finish that enhances both aesthetics and usability.

Key Features 

  • IP68, IP69K Waterproof (with lid closed)
  • Premium click-to-close design
  • Marine-grade 316 stainless steel hardware 
  • Durable matte black plastics 
  • Built-in gaskets for a watertight seal 
  • Corrosion-resistant design 
  • Commercial-grade receptacle included 
  • Built-in strain relief 
  • Compatible with flat and round cables  

MSRP: $63.49

Vision X Lighting  — Explora 6″ Offroad Driving Lights With Dual-Color DRL

The Explora Series was engineered to bring modern styling and true customization to the off-road lighting world, giving everyday drivers and enthusiasts alike a platform that delivers unmatched versatility at an attainable price point. With switchback dual-color DRLs, interchangeable lenses, and colorful trim ring options, Explora lights allow anyone to tailor their setup to perfectly match their build. This unique approach to personalization is paired with serious performance, making Explora more than just a good-looking light—it’s a whole new breed.

Available in 4, 6, and 7-inch pod sizes, each Explora Light Pod features a next-generation circuit design built around an internal MOSFET system, eliminating the need for external relays. This makes wiring simple, whether using a universal trigger wire, a switch, or Vision X’s plug-&-play harnesses. The advanced 4-position DRL system runs in bright white, amber, or switchback mode, where the DRL automatically shifts to amber and flashes in sync with factory turn signals. Behind the sleek styling, twelve X-Drive LEDs paired with a honeycomb-style optic deliver an impressive 6,000 lumens per light, projecting a powerful and consistent driving beam.

The Explora Series is as customizable as it is capable. Every light comes standard with a smoked lens but can easily be swapped with clear for maximum protection or selective yellow for cutting through dust and fog. Snap-on lens covers in clear, yellow, smoke, or blackout expand styling and functionality options, while interchangeable silicone trim rings are available in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and pink to match any theme. Designed for drivers who demand both function and form, Explora offers limitless combinations of color and performance in one sleek package. It’s not just a lighting upgrade—it’s the most adaptable light series ever built.

MSRP: $775.00

Fenix — Flashlights

Fenix flashlights have earned a reputation for reliability, durability, and performance. Military, law enforcement, industrial workers, and other professionals trust these high quality lights to perform when they need them. As the Fenix reputation grows, so does the line-up of versatile flashlights. The Fenix line includes a light for every application, from tactical operations, to everyday carry, to hiking and camping, to biking, and around-the-house utility. Waterproof construction, impact resistant materials, and long-lasting LED engines contribute to the Fenix rock-solid reputation.

MSRP: Varies

READ MORE: Industry Spotlight: Scanstrut

Overland Solar — Solar Panels

At Overland Solar, our mission is to power your next adventure. We manufacture portable solar systems and have rapidly become the brand that explorers trust to power critical electronics. Whether your in an RV, on foot, or at sea our systems reliably outperform our competition backed by a 100% guarantee. That’s why South Pole expeditions, Land Rover, Overland and Mt. Everest Climbers trust us to with the critical job of powering satelitte phones, off-grid expeditions, even rowing across the Atlantic.

Employee-owned and operated, we pride ourselves on great customer service and solving hard power problems. All of our systems come with a 7/20 year warranty. Our affiliate program is a primary tool for us to extend our reach.

MSRP: Varies

COAST — Lanterns

For three generations the Brands family has pursued the mission to make the working professional’s job and life, safer and easier. From the founding of the company in 1919, our path has been one of discovery and innovation. It’s in everything we do, as we start with function and work our way to sensible, streamlined designs. We are a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, DIYers, and beyond.

MSRP: Varies

Pale Blue — Rechargeable Batteries

Pale Blue is the battery company that wants you to buy fewer batteries. Pale Blue offers the world’s best lithium polymer rechargeable batteries to ditch disposables for good. Each battery is feature-rich with a mirco USB charging ports, LED charging indicators, are 40% lighter than traditional batteries, and have incredible charging speed. Available in AA, AAA, 9V, and D batteries.

MSRP: Varies

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