I first saw LuminAID’s products on Shark Tank. I was impressed by the presentation, the product, and the ways it can be of real use in an emergency. I didn’t order one but was thrilled to get a review sample. I was sent the LuminAID PackLite 16. It’s “the new and improved version of our original LuminAID solar light!”
From the company:
“The new PackLite 16 has double the LEDs (2X the wattage), is made out of a thicker, more durable TPU (PVC-free) material, and has an additional flashing setting for emergencies. The PackLite 16 provides up to 16 hours of consistent LED light and can be easily recharged in the sun, ideal for recreational use outdoors or in the home as an extra light source. It has two, extra bright LEDs that provide over 65 lumens on the Extra Bright setting and a 32-hour flashing mode.”
“The PackLite 16 folds up into a compact, portable size that is easy to clip to your backpack to charge on-the-go or store in your emergency kit. The durable and weather-resistant TPU plastic material (100% PVC-free) inflates to diffuse the LED light and create a lantern. The PackLite 16 will easily light up a 125 sq. ft space. Tuck it away in your first-aid kit or hook it on your backpack for your next adventure!”
If you didn’t know what the product was and how it was intended to be used you wouldn’t really know what to make of it when it first arrives. Basically you are presented with a folded piece of soft TPU material with a bit of a loop on one end and a snap holding the material closed in it’s folded up form.
On the top is a solar panel with a red button, a charging indicator light, and the name of the product and company. It looks a bit science-fiction edge but it’s purpose and function are readily apparent.
Features:
- 6 Hours LED light on Extra Bright setting
- 10 Hours LED light on High setting
- 30 Hours LED light on LOW setting
- Up to 32 Hours on FLASHING setting
- Recharges in 7 hours of direct sunlight
- One Year Warranty
- High-efficiency ~19% monocrystalline solar panel
- Lithium-Polymer Ion battery with hundreds of recharge cycles
- Weight: 2.9 oz
- Dimensions: 8.25″ W x 12″ L (when not inflated)
- Waterproof up to 1 meter deep and can float (IPX-7)
- Product is 100% PVC free and all components are lead-free and RoHs compliant
The LuminAID PackLite 16 is one of those cool gadgets that does exactly what it sets out to do. It is packable, portable, unpluggable, and gives off a surprising amount of light for something that is so seemingly simple. It also floats! The only downside I see is that it doesn’t come with a protective bag other than the plastic in which it ships. That means the material can easily be punctured and it will no longer inflate.
You can learn more and order yours for $24.95 here.
Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample.
What I Like: Does what it promises to do; Has four settings; Floats; Folds small and gives a surprising amount of light.
What Needs Improvement: No protective bag means it could easily be punctured.
