Freeloader Pico Solar charger

[davidharvey]

Anyone got one of these chargers, and if so are they any good?
or are they just another of those gadgets that seem like a good idea, but are a waste of money?

[The Octave Doctor]

I have a similar one - Solio - ie small solar power gadget for mobiles etc - I actually use it as a back up in the van - leave it on the dashboard - gets charged up - then if you need to its always there. So its quite useful - but not essential

[cruising_r32]

I bought a solar charger from Maplin about two months ago for about 30euro.
I ran a cable from the battery up to the dash and leave it sitting on top of the speedo while I'm not driving.
I've no idea if it is working or not but I have never come out to a flat battery even after leaving the camper sitting for a few weeks.

[meehaja]

I have a small solar charger for phones/ipod etc (think its a "freeloader") about the size of two cassette tapes. As far as I'm aware its never managed to charge anything to any decent amount. Maybe there's just no sun up here in yorkshire?

[shaka1976]

I fitted a Maplins one (£10) to my Splitscreen, I never had a flat battery again after that. Also started a lot easier as the battery was always fully charged!!