MPowerd Luci Solar String Lights

Who needs strings lights? Anyone who wants to glam up the camping experience. You can do just that with these easy to use string lights from Luci. Oh, and they are solar power.

Why would anyone want extra weight carrying string lights? I had to ask myself that question too while looking for a solar power light option for our car/tent camping. I liked the idea of a string of lights that could  light up an entire area instead of directly where the light hangs.

This self-contained Luci solar light seems to fit what I was looking for as it was solar-powered for those locations where we don't have power. The 18 feet of string looked easy to wrap and the lights could be charged/used on a USB power bank.  

One side of the light has a nice solar panel for charging, a small flashlight for use without the string extended and small indicator lights.

Bottom to top: Flashlight, solar panel, battery/charge indicator lights, cable on side is used for carry or hanging the unit. 

The unit provides 4 modes of operation, flashlight, low, medium, high. The level of brightness is not anything to write home about but it gives enough light to see and to get around in a small tent. If light pollution is a concern I think you will be happy that this light will not interfere with star gazing. Romantic lighting...yes!

We usually string these lights inside the tent or in the VW Caddy when we are camping for additional lighting. The string is sometimes a hassle, as with any string light system you have to make sure you know where the string is so you don't run into it in the dark. Also the large heavy carry case does make it a challenge sometimes when hanging it up as it weighs down the string line. The clips that are very small don't hold very well and we have found that using a few clothes pins hangs and keeps the lights in position much better.

Battery life on a fully charged Luci string light is up to 20 hours on low setting. We have never used it for a full 20 hours straight so can't verify if that is actual. 

We have charged this unit more on the GoalZero charging battery than in the sunlight and that is also faster as the direct sunlight charge is 16 full hours in direct sunlight! Ouch! Not something you want to find out at the tent after dark! 

Placing the string back into the container is not meant for someone without patience or time. It takes a steady hand and attention to get it properly wound back into the case. This alone would have taken it off the "must have list" if my hubby knew this beforehand. 

Background

I would recommend this product for someone who wants to glam up the camping experience or the hopeless romantic camper (dress to impress). Those who want a fast quick light that is easy to put up and take down should not waste money on this. Also the weight would disqualify it for backpacking. It has provided us with usable light in our situation. Are there better options without the price and the weight? Yes.

Thoughtful, easy, good value. You'll make fans and friends with these lights.

They must have tested the heck out of this thing, because all three lights levels are perfect—good for intimate settings but useful also to read, work, or party near.  

The cord length and number of lights is versatile as well, and this thing is tough. I've used it in a number of settings, from camping to indoor. It's just a warm, charming, confident glow that keeps going.

The solar power part makes you wish more items were like this. And the lights last a long time—20 hours in the lowest setting. The base pops open and closes easily and the battery level lights and USB plug-ins are clear and easy, perfect for camping.

On the next iteration, it might be nice if they had a rubbery base, so the thing doesn't slip around, and maybe a hook hole so you could hang the base up. Do they sell extra string so you can connect multiple strings from one base? These are minor quibbles compared to the ease of use, the savings from not needing separate batteries, and the perfect light levels.

It's also waterproof, so you don't need to worry about a splash or light rain. I've tested that as well : ). 

Background

Used it for camping and in several indoor settings.