Need help stocking up for a camping trip!

[Phrozt]

I've been vaping since 2011, on larger mods for the past 5 years or so, but I've never really strayed too far into battery technology... until now. Basically, I've got a camping trip in a few weeks where I will have no charging capacity for 3 days and would like to prepare accordingly.

I started out w/a sigelei 100, rotating between 4 Imren green 18650 2600mAh batteries, then I went to a mod w/an internal batter, and w/in the last year I've gone back to using batteries in my vaporesso mods, rotating between 4 Samsung 18560 2500mAh batteries. With my usage on my mod, I'm rotating those out at least once a day. Due to this rotation, I'm looking into new batteries for:
- Which ones last longer
- The minimum amount I need to cover my 3 day trip.

As I started looking at the major vaping sites I buy my mods/juice from, I noticed a lot of variance between batteries. Then I started looking at amazon or for any other vendors online and noticed a much *larger* difference in batteries, and then as I started researching some of these differences, I found the regular false advertising/garbage metrics that batteries advertise.... and became beyond confused. So, to sort out that confusion, I started researching batteries, which pointed out how much further beyond confused than I *originally* though I was lol. So as I'm going through research, pouring through Mooch videos/posts, etc, I realized it might be a good idea just to throw my specifications and use case to all of you experts to make sure I'm actually making a good decision, w/the admitted little information I have.

Here is what I'm currently using and the two different types of coils I use with it:
- Vaporesso Polar mod/Vaporesso Revenger X mod, both running on VW-Normal
- GT CCELL (ceramic) coil @ .5 (.43) ohms x 33.7W
- GT CCELL2 (ceramic) coil @ .3 (.26) ohms x 37.7W

Charging on an i2 Intellicharger from Nitecore

As I mentioned earlier, I would need to cover 3 days where I can't charge my mods, and I regularly switch out my current Samsung 25R 2500 mAh batteries at least once a day, but I usually switch them out when they go in the red (25% left?). I say I can't charge them, but I will have a car charger running at a 6A charge via USB, but I'd rather just have batteries to cover myself.

From what I've researched so far, these are my top contenders:
- Samsung 30Q 18650 3000mAh 15A
- Sony | Murata VTC6 18650 3000mAh 15A
- LG HG2 18650 3000mAh 20A

Then, because I *think* I can use 10A batteries based on my usage (PLEASE correct me if I'm wrong), I was looking at:
- Sanyo NCR18650GA 3450mAh 10A
- IMREN 18650 3200mAh 10A
- IMREN 18650 3500mAh 10A

Finally, I was looking for the best place to pick these up. Because I'm not 100% sure on all the forum rules, I'd rather not directly list the site, but IMReally sure that for BATTERIES, it's a COMmon place to get them.....

If you have any better sites to buy from, or better batteries, please let me know!!

And thank you!!

 

[Topwater Elvis]

In the 30w - 40w range I'd pick the LG HG2's.

It would be best to consider 15a cells a minimum, I would not recommend or suggest any 10a cells. Only buy name brand cells from known reputable dealers.

I buy all my cells from RTD ---> Batteries and Chargers <---

Using a decent regulated power device there is no reason to 'pull' batteries before they reach the power devices low voltage cutoff. Most have a 2.8v ~ 3.2v cut off which is fine for the cells we use.
Meaning keep vaping until it will no longer fire.

It is difficult to predict the run time difference between a quality 2500mah cell and a quality 3000mah cell used at similar amp drain, maybe 4 - 6 minutes of actual run time.

All the reputable, accurate battery info ---> Mooch's blog | E-Cigarette Forum

 

[Phrozt]

Some good information there Elvis, thanks!

There's really only a 4-6 minute difference between a 2500/3000mAh cell?? That's certainly information I haven't run across yet.

And yes, I'm definitely checking out Mooch's blog/videos, etc .

 

[zoiDman]

...

From what I've researched so far, these are my top contenders:
- Samsung 30Q 18650 3000mAh 15A
- Sony | Murata VTC6 18650 3000mAh 15A
- LG HG2 18650 3000mAh 20A

Then, because I *think* I can use 10A batteries based on my usage (PLEASE correct me if I'm wrong), I was looking at:
- Sanyo NCR18650GA 3450mAh 10A
- IMREN 18650 3200mAh 10A
- IMREN 18650 3500mAh 10A

...

I'm with Topwater. I'd go for the LG HG2's

but IMReally sure that for BATTERIES, it's a COMmon place to get them.....

LOL

Earth's #1 source for IMR 18650 Batteries, Chargers, Cases & Wraps | IMRbatteries.com

 

[Topwater Elvis]

Some good information there Elvis, thanks!

There's really only a 4-6 minute difference between a 2500/3000mAh cell?? That's certainly information I haven't run across yet.

And yes, I'm definitely checking out Mooch's blog/videos, etc .

About/around 4 - 6 minutes of 'run time' , which is the amount of time the fire button is depressed / taking a vape.
For some folks that might add 30 minutes between recharge cycles for others an hour maybe 2 or 3.

 

[Opinionated]

Liion Wholesale Batteries | Li-ion battery/cell distributor

 

[gerrymi]

BioLite CampStove Campstove 2 Wood Burning & USB Charging Camp Stove

A little expensive ($130)...but probably depends on how often you camp...

generates 3W power to charge devices...

Heat is converted into electricity via a thermoelectric generator. This powers a fan and sends electricity to a USB charging port. Excess power is stored in internal battery....

On-Board Battery - Integrated 2600 mAh battery charges devices with or without a live fire..

USB Charge Out With 50% More Power - Updated thermoelectrics create even more electricity from fire...

https://www.amazon.com/BioLite-CampStove-Burning-Charging-Camping/dp/B01FWRICY6/

..

 

[gerrymi]

Solar Charger,Yelomin 20000mAh Portable Outdoor Waterproof Mobile Power Bank,Camping External Backup Battery Pack Dual USB 5V 1A/2A

$22.99

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L3P7TRV

..

 

[Phrozt]

About/around 4 - 6 minutes of 'run time' , which is the amount of time the fire button is depressed / taking a vape.
For some folks that might add 30 minutes between recharge cycles for others an hour maybe 2 or 3.

Ahh, that makes more sense. Thanks

Gerrymi... coming at this problem from a different angle... interesting.

If I needed to charge though, I would most likely use my 6A, 48W (probably split 24x2) USB car charger, making sure to run the car while charging, of course. That's what I plan to do w/my phone.

 

[Phrozt]

One other thing... looks like I'll be looking for a charger to replace my nitecore... I don't like the little nicks that it puts on the sheathing from having to push back that spring. Also, it's pretty basic in it's 3 led charge indicator, so looking to bump up the technology a bit as well.

Any suggestions on something that's nicer to battery coverings?

 

[Baditude]

One other thing... looks like I'll be looking for a charger to replace my nitecore... I don't like the little nicks that it puts on the sheathing from having to push back that spring. Also, it's pretty basic in it's 3 led charge indicator, so looking to bump up the technology a bit as well.

Any suggestions on something that's nicer to battery coverings?

Guide to Choosing a Li-ion Battery Charger

When I upgraded my Nitecore Intellicharger i4 charger a couple of years ago I chose the Xtar VP4. Four charging bays; a really great LCD display window; 1 amp charging for two batteries simultaneously, 0.5 amp charging for 4 batteries simultaneously. I would choose the same make/model again if choosing a new charger today.

 

[zoiDman]

Ahh, that makes more sense. Thanks

Gerrymi... coming at this problem from a different angle... interesting.

If I needed to charge though, I would most likely use my 6A, 48W (probably split 24x2) USB car charger, making sure to run the car while charging, of course. That's what I plan to do w/my phone.

A Power Bank is (to Me) a Mission Critical piece of gear for Camping.

As someone who has been Stuck not Once, but Twice, with a Truck with a Dead Battery, it was the Power Bank that Saved the Day when the phones started to Die.

Some of the New Portable Chargers can act as Power Bank. Here is an Example...

XTAR PB2-ShenZhen XTAR Electronics Co., Ltd

 

[zoiDman]

BTW - Here is the Hero of the 1st Truck/Dead Battery adventure...

 

[BrotherBob]

please let me know!!

Welcome and glad you joined.
Great advice, good questions.

 

[Punk In Drublic]

mAh is not really a true indication on battery run time for we do not know how the manufacture came to that specification. If looking for the longest run time, figure out your battery current draw and cut off voltage then reference Mooch’s individual tests. As an example, 10 amps with a 3.2 volt cut off displays the HG2, 30Q and VTC6 to be almost identical in Amp Hours. But at 3.4 volts cut off, the Sony looks to be the better performer. The difference may only be minute but could have value to a user who is looking to extract every last volt from a cell. I used 3.4 volts as a cut off cause the OP stated he prefers to stop using when his battery meter is in the red and not at the devices actual cut off - which for the Vaporesso Polar is 3.2 volts and the Revenger is 3.3 volts (according to DJLsb)

 

[Phrozt]

Guide to Choosing a Li-ion Battery Charger

When I upgraded my Nitecore Intellicharger i4 charger a couple of years ago I chose the Xtar VP4. Four charging bays; a really great LCD display window; 1 amp charging for two batteries simultaneously, 0.5 amp charging for 4 batteries simultaneously. I would choose the same make/model again if choosing a new charger today.

RE: Switch from Nitecore i4 -> VP4:

My i2 is essentially the same as the i4. My question to you is: how are the springs/whatever on the VP4? My issue w/the Nitecore is that they're kind of.. umm.. crunchy? for lack of a better technical term, and that's what seems to be causing small nicks on the casing from time to time. I'm looking for something a bit smoother that doesn't necessarily require as much power to push back the tension. Based on the info I found here: Round cell charger index I was looking at either Xtars or GryFalcon All-44, w/the 44 being in the lead due to how he described the sliders as "very smooth."

A Power Bank is (to Me) a Mission Critical piece of gear for Camping.

As someone who has been Stuck not Once, but Twice, with a Truck with a Dead Battery, it was the Power Bank that Saved the Day when the phones started to Die.

Some of the New Portable Chargers can act as Power Bank. Here is an Example...

XTAR PB2-ShenZhen XTAR Electronics Co., Ltd

I do have a ZeroLemon 30k mAh brick that I'll *DEFINITELY* be bringing: ToughJuice V3.0 External Battery 30000mAh [Shipping to US Only]

But I also have that 48watt car charger I mentioned earlier. I just didn't want to mention charging via USB, considering every vape channel in existence tells you to never charge via USB, so coming to a battery forum, I figured that would be pure blasphemy to even mention, lol.

mHa is not really a true indication on battery run time for we do not know how the manufacture came to that specification. If looking for the longest run time, figure out your battery current draw and cut off voltage then reference Mooch’s individual tests. As an example, 10 amps with a 3.2 volt cut off displays the HG2, 30Q and VTC6 to be almost identical in Amp Hours. But at 3.4 volts cut off, the Sony looks to be the better performer. The difference may only be minute but could have value to a user who is looking to extract every last volt from a cell. I used 3.4 volts as a cut off cause the OP stated he prefers to stop using when his battery meter is in the red and not at the devices actual cut off - which for the Vaporesso Polar is 3.2 volts and the Revenger is 3.3 volts (according to DJLsb)

3 things:
- THANK YOU for finding the cutoff of the Polar... I was searching and searching yesterday but could not find it.
- Interesting you suggested the Sony, because that's actually my leading pick out of those 3 .
- Love the name. Curiously enough, the trip I'm suggesting is to Camp Anarchy in Ohio! Should be quite a fun trip w/my buddies. Also a bit chagrined about your name though, because there is a Punk in Drublic in Canada that I will be SUPER ...... to miss, because while having my favorite band BR on the ticket and NOFX, it also would knock two bucket list bands off at the same time - The Real McKenzies (second favorite band) and Anti-Flag.... but there's no way I can go to it, because I live in the midwest, and July 13th is my daughter's bday. Can't be in 2 places at once :/.

 

[jandrew]

A Power Bank is (to Me) a Mission Critical piece of gear for Camping.

As someone who has been Stuck not Once, but Twice, with a Truck with a Dead Battery, it was the Power Bank that Saved the Day when the phones started to Die.
...

Definitely. And you can get powerbanks that can jumpstart a vehicle as well ... I have one that did, indeed, successfully jump my HHR.

 

[Phrozt]

Wanted to bring specific focus to the idea of using a car charger to charge via USB.
The one I'm looking at is quoted as having the following specifications:
Dual QC3.0 Output:5-6.5V/3A,6.5-12V/2A(each port),48W 6A fast car charger for Apple & Android Devices.

How terrible of an idea would it be to charge my batteries inside my polar on that thing?

 

[zoiDman]

...

I do have a ZeroLemon 30k mAh brick that I'll *DEFINITELY* be bringing: ToughJuice V3.0 External Battery 30000mAh [Shipping to US Only]

But I also have that 48watt car charger I mentioned earlier. I just didn't want to mention charging via USB, considering every vape channel in existence tells you to never charge via USB, so coming to a battery forum, I figured that would be pure blasphemy to even mention, lol.

...

Good Deal. Sounds like you have a Good Set of Multi-Purpose Backups.

I Wouldn't ever recommend someone using their Mod's USB Port to routinely charge their replaceable Batteries. But for something like Camping, I wouldn't be hesitant to charge thru the USB Port if for some reason I had to.

 

[Punk In Drublic]

3 things:
- THANK YOU for finding the cutoff of the Polar... I was searching and searching yesterday but could not find it.
- Interesting you suggested the Sony, because that's actually my leading pick out of those 3 .
- Love the name. Curiously enough, the trip I'm suggesting is to Camp Anarchy in Ohio! Should be quite a fun trip w/my buddies. Also a bit chagrined about your name though, because there is a Punk in Drublic in Canada that I will be SUPER ...... to miss, because while having my favorite band BR on the ticket and NOFX, it also would knock two bucket list bands off at the same time - The Real McKenzies (second favorite band) and Anti-Flag.... but there's no way I can go to it, because I live in the midwest, and July 13th is my daughter's bday. Can't be in 2 places at once :/.

Punk In Drublic fest Awesome!! Unfortunately it’s just a tad outside my neighborhood.

But just to clarify, Mooch’s tests are performed under a lab environment which although we can use to reference, they may not be a true indication on real life performance. But the point of my post was to indicate (somewhat) that a high mAh does not always dictate longer run time. The rate at which a battery depletes is not linear and one cell could operate within a specific voltage under a specific current draw for a longer duration than another. If looking to exploit (not the punk band!) run time, we can take a closer look at how each cell operates. That said, you cannot go wrong with either the HG2, 30Q or the VTC6 (or even the VTC6A).

I do not own the Revenger, but will say with a 2A USB charger my Vaporesso Polar got hot, I mean scary hot, when charging LG HG2’s via the devices internal USB charging. Might just be my device, but something I would pay extremely close attention to if you decide to charge via USB.