USB charger on kayak

Anybody install a USB charger port on a kayak? The mounting pod (or whatever it's called) in this video looks like a good way to do it, since there's no need to drill a big hole (not that it really bothers me to drill holes in my kayak):



It looks like it would fit inside the side pocket on my Hobie, which is right about where I want it to be, but I don't know where to get something like that.

And as for USB ports, here's a waterproof one from West Marine, but it seems a bit pricey:

https://www.westmarine.com/buy/poly-planar--waterproof-dual-port-usb-charger--15094345?recordNum=2

Anyways, I'd like to hear about any experience or suggestions any of you might have. Thanks.

Curious as to why you need a USB port on your kayak? Phone Charging?

Most likely to charge phone or charge the battery it self

Check out the USB ports in this battery box on NWKA.  I believe crash built a similar box from the plans attached to the post.

http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=16848.0

Check out the USB ports in this battery box on NWKA.  I believe crash built a similar box from the plans attached to the post.

http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=16848.0

Yessir. Works like a champ.

Curious as to why you need a USB port on your kayak? Phone Charging?

I’d like to plug in my iPhone.

Check out the USB ports in this battery box on NWKA.  I believe crash built a similar box from the plans attached to the post.

http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=16848.0

Yessir. Works like a champ.

Very nice. In my setup, the battery box is in the rear hatch (inaccessible on the water) and I want the USB port right underneath where I mount my iPhone case. Should be a piece of cake—thanks for the info.

The IP66 rating on those USB ports only applies when the cover is closed, not when the ports are in use. USB ports are NOT waterproof! Those ports are designed for use in boats, not in a kayak where your ass is only inches off the water, and any wave over the side will flood the ports. Much easier and safer to charge your phone at home or in your car on the way to the water.

The IP66 rating on those USB ports only applies when the cover is closed, not when the ports are in use. USB ports are NOT waterproof! Those ports are designed for use in boats, not in a kayak where your ass is only inches off the water, and any wave over the side will flood the ports. Much easier and safer to charge your phone at home or in your car on the way to the water.

or external battery in a dry bag/box in your hatch bucket


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I've seen plenty of bass guys put those on their yaks without issue.  But they're not as susceptible to waves over their bows as someone who hits the ocean.  I would use a power brick in a dry bag.

At the very least, I would make sure the USB ports are vertical facing instead of horizontal so they should be a bit more water resistant.

The IP66 rating on those USB ports only applies when the cover is closed, not when the ports are in use. USB ports are NOT waterproof! Those ports are designed for use in boats, not in a kayak where your ass is only inches off the water, and any wave over the side will flood the ports. Much easier and safer to charge your phone at home or in your car on the way to the water.

Good point about the waterproof issues... But I’m planning a long range multi-day trip so charging at home is not an option. And besides, even in one day the battery will die if I use the gps and other apps much (which I like to do).

So now I’m thinking to have the usb connection inside the battery box where it will be protected from moisture, and then waterproof the place where the lightning connector will pass thru my (waterproof) iPhone case. I think that should be doable.

I've been using my Wilderness Systems lithium battery to charge my phone while sitting on the couch at home. The multiple usb ports are pretty convenient. Just a thought...

I've been using my Wilderness Systems lithium battery to charge my phone while sitting on the couch at home. The multiple usb ports are pretty convenient. Just a thought...

So the wall charger charges the lithium battery which charges your phone? Very Rube Goldberg.

I charged my phone today at ISE off of my Wilderness Systems battery. Works great.

I've been using my Wilderness Systems lithium battery to charge my phone while sitting on the couch at home. The multiple usb ports are pretty convenient. Just a thought...

Yes!!