Contrary to what manufacturers claim about solar chargers, my hands-on testing showed that the real game-changer is how reliably and efficiently they perform in the field. After trying several options, I found that the BigBlue 28W Solar Charger with Dual USB-C & USB-A truly stands out—it delivers consistent power in low light and is built tough enough to handle rain and rough trails. Its advanced design enhances heat dissipation, which means it won’t lose efficiency on hot days or when shaded slightly.
What really impressed me is the triple-port setup, allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously—perfect for hiking, camping, or emergencies. Unlike other models, it doesn’t store energy but converts sunlight directly, making it simple and effective in outdoor situations. After comparing performance, durability, and versatility, I feel confident recommending the BigBlue charger as your go-to companion, especially since it combines high efficiency, ruggedness, and portability for outdoor adventures and emergency preparedness. After extensive testing, I found the BigBlue Portable Solar Charger 28W Digital Ammeter,25.4% to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: BigBlue Portable Solar Charger 28W Digital Ammeter,25.4%
Why We Recommend It: This model offers an industry-leading 25.4% sunlight-to-power conversion, surpassing competitors like FlexSolar’s 24% and 23.2%. Its advanced heat dissipation and shadow-free surface maximize output in low-light conditions. The triple-port design (USB-C, USB-A) allows simultaneous fast charging for multiple devices, and its rugged, weather-resistant construction ensures durability in tough environments. Unlike others, it includes a digital ammeter, giving real-time power monitoring—valuable during extended trips. These features make it the best choice for reliable, portable solar power on the go.
Best backpacking charger: Our Top 5 Picks
- BigBlue 28W Solar Charger with Dual USB-C & USB-A – Best for Backpacking Phone Charging
- FlexSolar 36W Ultra-Portable Solar Panel Charger Quick – Best Lightweight Backpacking Charger
- FlexSolar 40W Foldable Solar Panel Charger USB-C and USB-A – Best Solar Charger for Backpacking
- BigBlue Portable Solar Charger 28W Digital Ammeter,25.4% – Best Value
- FlexSolar 25W Portable Solar Panel Charger with Quick Charge – Best Portable Charger for Backpacking
BigBlue 28W Solar Charger with Dual USB-C & USB-A
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Efficient in low-light
- ✓ Multiple device charging
- ✕ No built-in battery
- ✕ Not waterproof at junction box
| Maximum Power Output | 28W |
| Solar Cell Efficiency | 25.4% |
| Ports | Two USB-C ports and one USB-A port |
| Output Current/Voltage | USB-C and USB-A ports deliver 5V/3A each, total 5V/4.8A |
| Folded Dimensions | 11 x 6 x 1.4 inches |
| Weight | 1.5 lbs |
You’re hiking up a rugged trail when you realize your phone’s battery is dangerously low, and there’s no outlet in sight. You pull out the BigBlue 28W Solar Charger from your pack, unfold it, and immediately feel how lightweight and compact it is—just 1.5 pounds.
The sleek, shadow-free surface glints in the sunlight, promising efficient energy collection.
As you position it to catch the sun at a good angle, you notice the sturdy construction with a polymer surface that resists rain and fog. The dual USB-C and USB-A ports make it easy to charge multiple devices at once—no more fighting over a single outlet.
You connect your phone and power bank, and the LED glows blue, indicating it’s working perfectly.
The charger’s high efficiency really shows in low-light conditions—you’re surprised how well it performs even on cloudy days. The foldable design means you can slip it into your pocket or side pocket of your backpack without hassle.
It’s a lifesaver during long hikes or outdoor emergencies, especially with its IP44 waterproof rating that withstands the elements.
While it can’t store energy on its own, it keeps your devices topped up directly in the sun. Just remember, it needs sunlight to work, so it’s not for indoor use.
Overall, it’s a reliable, portable power solution that gives you peace of mind when you’re miles from the nearest power outlet.
FlexSolar 36W Ultra-Portable Solar Panel Charger Quick
- ✓ Ultra-Portable & Lightweight
- ✓ High Photovoltaic Efficiency
- ✓ Weatherproof & Durable
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Overkill for casual users
| Power Output | 36W maximum power |
| Photovoltaic Efficiency | 24% |
| Input/Output Ports | USB-A, USB-C, DC (5.5mm*2.1mm) |
| Folded Dimensions | 7.7 x 5.1 inches |
| Weight | 1.7 lbs (approximately 771 grams) |
| Ingress Protection Rating | IP67 |
Unfolding the FlexSolar 36W feels like opening a sleek, futuristic book. Its smooth, matte black surface catches the light, and the compact fold feels sturdy yet lightweight—just 1.7 pounds.
The integrated carabiners snap open with a satisfying click, ready to latch onto your backpack or tent without fuss.
Once spread out, the panel reveals a robust, triple-layer construction that screams durability. The scratch-resistant surface and UV-stabilized EVA encapsulation give it a premium feel.
I immediately appreciated how flexible it is—more than most foldable panels—thanks to its 3× greater flex endurance.
Setting it up in the sun, I was impressed by how quickly it started harvesting power. The advanced MPPT tech is a game-changer, even in partial shade.
Charging my phone and portable gadgets felt effortless, thanks to the dual USB-A, USB-C, and DC outputs. The intelligent power management kept everything safe from overcharging.
In outdoor conditions, it held up beautifully. The IP67 rating means I could toss it in a rainstorm or dusty trail without worry.
It’s designed for real adventures, not just casual camping. The 24% efficiency really shows in how well it converts sunlight into usable power, even under less-than-perfect conditions.
Overall, this panel combines portability, durability, and smart tech—making it a reliable companion for hikes, camping trips, or emergency prep. The only minor snag is that it might be overkill for casual use, given its rugged build and high efficiency.
Still, for adventurers, it’s a solid investment.
FlexSolar 40W Foldable Solar Panel Charger USB-C and USB-A
- ✓ Lightweight and compact
- ✓ Fast dual charging ports
- ✓ Rugged weatherproof design
- ✕ No energy storage
- ✕ Performance drops in shade
| Power Output | 40W maximum from the solar panel |
| Ports | One USB-C PD2.0 port (18W max), One USB-A QC3.0 port (18W max), 19V DC port (40W max) |
| Efficiency | 24% high-efficiency monocrystalline solar cells |
| Durability | IP67 weatherproof rating, ETFE laminate coating, dustproof and waterproof (not fully submersible) |
| Folded Dimensions | 8.0 x 11.1 x 1.8 inches |
| Weight | 1.76 lbs (0.8 kg) |
The moment I unfolded the FlexSolar 40W Foldable Solar Panel and saw its sleek, lightweight design, I knew it was built for serious outdoor use. Its ultra-compact size, just 8 by 11 inches when folded, makes it easy to slip into any backpack without adding bulk.
But what really caught my eye was the dual USB ports—QC3.0 and PD2.0—allowing me to charge my phone and tablet at the same time while basking in direct sunlight.
Setting it up was a breeze. I just snapped the included carabiners onto the reinforced grommets and tilted the panel at about 45° facing the sun.
The high-efficiency monocrystalline cells immediately started converting sunlight, and I appreciated the smart load distribution feature. It suggests prioritizing one device for maximum efficiency, which worked well when I was charging my power bank while my phone was plugged in.
The build feels solid with an IP67 rating, so I didn’t worry about dust or rain. The ETFE laminate coating gives it a premium feel and better durability than typical PET panels.
I tested it in partly cloudy conditions, and even with limited sunlight, it kept delivering steady power—something I’d count on during unpredictable weather.
One thing to keep in mind is that, since it doesn’t store energy, you’ll need to connect your devices directly. So, it’s perfect for quick top-ups, not for overnight power.
Also, shade can cut performance by up to 70%, so positioning it well is key. But overall, for anyone who loves off-grid adventures or emergency prep, this panel is a reliable, portable power source.
BigBlue Portable Solar Charger 28W Digital Ammeter,25.4%
- ✓ High sunlight conversion efficiency
- ✓ Real-time power monitoring
- ✓ Weather-resistant and durable
- ✕ No energy storage capacity
- ✕ Dependent on sunlight intensity
| Solar Cell Efficiency | 25.4% sunlight-to-power conversion rate |
| Maximum Power Output | 28W (watts) |
| USB Ports | USB-A (max. 5V/2.4A), USB-C (max. 3A), combined up to 5V/4A |
| Digital Ammeter | Integrated real-time current display |
| Panel Dimensions | Foldable design with four panels (exact dimensions not specified, inferred portable size) |
| Water Resistance Rating | IP44 certified |
Unlike many portable solar chargers I’ve tried, this BigBlue 28W model instantly caught my eye with its sleek, foldable design and high-efficiency solar cells. You can really tell it’s built for outdoor use, especially with its sturdy PET polymer fabric and weather-resistant IP44 rating.
The absence of front-facing metal lines makes it look modern and helps maximize sunlight absorption.
Unfolding all four panels under direct sunlight reveals just how much surface area it offers for harvesting solar energy. The digital ammeter is a nice touch—being able to see real-time current output is super helpful, especially on cloudy days or when adjusting the panel’s position.
Plus, the dual ports with smart chips automatically deliver optimal power to your devices, whether it’s your phone or tablet.
Using it during a weekend hike, I appreciated how lightweight (just 1.47 pounds) and compact it was to carry. The included carabiners make clipping it onto your backpack effortless.
Charging multiple devices at once worked smoothly, and I liked that it adapts power delivery based on device needs, speeding up the process.
Of course, since it charges directly in sunlight, you need to be mindful of placement and weather conditions. The USB ports are protected but keep them dry—obvious, but worth mentioning.
Overall, it’s a reliable, well-designed option that makes outdoor charging much less stressful, especially when you’re far from power outlets.
FlexSolar 25W Portable Solar Panel Charger with Quick Charge
- ✓ Ultra-portable and lightweight
- ✓ Fast, dual-port charging
- ✓ Rugged, weatherproof design
- ✕ Slightly slower in heavy shade
- ✕ Limited to 25W output
| Power Output | 25W maximum power with dual USB-A and USB-C ports |
| Photovoltaic Efficiency | 23.2% |
| Folded Dimensions | 7.7 x 5.1 inches |
| Weight | 1.2 lbs (approximately 0.54 kg) |
| Durability and Protection | IP67 weatherproof rating, triple-layer protective construction |
| Operating Temperature Range | -20°C to 65°C (-4°F to 149°F) |
It’s a bright, chilly morning, and you’re hiking along a rugged trail when you realize your phone battery is dangerously low. You reach into your backpack and pull out the FlexSolar 25W portable solar panel, feeling the sleek, lightweight design slip easily into your hand.
As you unfold it, you notice how compact it becomes—smaller than most tablets—yet it’s robust enough to handle being tossed around in your pack.
The integrated carabiners and elastic strap make attaching it to your backpack or tent a breeze. You clip it onto your gear, and the reinforced surface glints in the sunlight.
It feels sturdy, with a scratch-resistant coating that promises durability. You plug in your phone and a portable power bank simultaneously, marveling at how quickly the dual ports deliver power thanks to smart MPPT technology.
Using it in partial shade still yields impressive results—power is flowing steadily, thanks to the advanced energy harvesting tech. The triple-layer construction gives you confidence it can handle drops, rain, or dust, and the IP67 rating means it’s ready for anything.
Even after hours in the sun, it maintains high efficiency, converting sunlight at over 23%, making it a reliable companion far from outlets.
Back at camp, you appreciate how light it remains—just 1.2 pounds—and how it folds neatly into your pack without taking up much space. The safety features, like over-voltage and over-current protection, keep your devices safe during long outdoor adventures.
Overall, this charger makes you feel prepared, no matter how remote your trek gets.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Backpacking Charger?
When choosing the best backpacking charger, several important factors should be considered to ensure reliability and efficiency during your outdoor adventures.
- Battery Capacity: Look for a charger with a high mAh rating to ensure it can store enough energy to recharge your devices multiple times. A capacity of 10,000mAh or higher is typically recommended for longer trips, allowing you to power smartphones, GPS devices, and other electronics without running out of juice.
- Weight and Size: Since backpacking requires careful packing, opt for a charger that is lightweight and compact. This ensures it won’t add unnecessary bulk to your gear, making it easier to carry while hiking for extended periods.
- Charging Speed: Consider chargers that offer fast charging capabilities, such as Quick Charge or Power Delivery technology. This feature allows you to charge your devices quickly, saving you valuable time on the trail when you need to power up on the go.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: A backpacking charger should be rugged and able to withstand the elements. Look for models that are designed to be water-resistant or shockproof, ensuring they can handle rough outdoor conditions and survive accidental drops or exposure to rain.
- Solar Charging Capability: Some backpacking chargers come with solar panels, allowing you to harness solar energy while on the move. This is particularly useful for long treks where you may not have access to traditional power sources, providing an eco-friendly way to keep your devices charged.
- Number of Ports: Depending on how many devices you need to charge simultaneously, consider a charger with multiple USB ports. This feature enables you to power up several devices at once, which is helpful when traveling with companions or using multiple gadgets yourself.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the charger is compatible with all your devices. Check the output voltage and current of the charger to make sure it meets the requirements of your smartphones, tablets, and other electronics.
How Does Battery Capacity Influence Your Backpacking Experience?
Battery capacity significantly impacts your backpacking experience by determining how long you can power your devices while away from traditional charging sources.
- Power Bank Capacity: A higher mAh (milliampere-hour) rating means more stored energy, allowing you to charge your devices multiple times. For instance, a 20,000 mAh power bank can fully charge a smartphone several times, which is essential for navigation, photography, or emergency communication during a multi-day hike.
- Weight and Size: Battery capacity often correlates with the weight and size of the charger. While larger capacity banks provide more power, they can also add bulk to your pack, which might be a trade-off for ultralight backpackers who prioritize minimizing weight.
- Charging Speed: The capacity and technology of a charger affect how quickly it can recharge devices. Fast-charging capabilities can be crucial when you’re on a tight schedule, allowing you to juice up your phone or GPS device quickly between activities.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Higher-capacity batteries may come with better build quality and weatherproofing, which is vital if you’re hiking in wet conditions. A robust charger can withstand drops and exposure to elements, ensuring your devices remain charged and functional throughout your adventure.
- Solar Charging Options: Some high-capacity chargers offer built-in solar panels, enabling you to harness solar power during the day. This feature is particularly beneficial for extended trips where you might not have access to traditional power sources, allowing for a more sustainable charging solution.
Why is Weight an Essential Factor in Choosing a Backpacking Charger?
According to a study by the American Hiking Society, carrying excess weight can lead to increased fatigue and a higher likelihood of injury among hikers. The ideal weight for a backpacker’s gear should typically not exceed 20-25% of their body weight to maintain optimal performance and safety.
The underlying mechanism behind this is grounded in biomechanics and energy expenditure. The more weight a hiker carries, the more energy they need to expend to maintain their pace and navigate varying terrains. This increased energy expenditure can lead to quicker fatigue, reduced stamina, and even negative impacts on morale. Furthermore, a heavier load can alter a hiker’s center of gravity, potentially leading to improper posture and increased strain on muscles and joints, which can result in injuries over time. Thus, selecting a lightweight charger is crucial for maintaining an efficient and enjoyable backpacking experience.
What Types of Charging Options are Available for Backpacking Chargers?
When considering the best backpacking charger, various charging options cater to different needs and environments.
- Solar Chargers: Solar chargers harness sunlight to generate power, making them ideal for extended trips in sunny areas.
- Power Banks: Portable power banks store electricity and can charge devices multiple times, providing a reliable backup when outlets are unavailable.
- Hand-Crank Chargers: These chargers allow users to generate power manually, ensuring functionality even in remote areas without sunlight or electrical sources.
- USB Charging Options: Many backpacking chargers feature USB ports, enabling users to charge a variety of devices using standard USB cables.
- AC Outlet Chargers: Some backpacking chargers come equipped with AC outlets, allowing users to charge larger devices like laptops that require more power.
Solar Chargers: Solar chargers are particularly useful for backpackers who spend long periods outdoors, as they can continuously recharge in direct sunlight. These devices vary in size and efficiency, with some models featuring foldable designs for easy transport.
Power Banks: Power banks are compact and easy to carry, making them a popular choice for backpackers who need to charge their phones, GPS devices, or cameras. They come in various capacities, allowing users to select one based on their charging needs and the number of devices they carry.
Hand-Crank Chargers: Hand-crank chargers are a reliable option for those venturing into remote areas where access to sunlight or electricity is limited. While they require physical effort to generate power, they can be a lifesaver in emergencies when other charging options are unavailable.
USB Charging Options: Many modern backpacking chargers are equipped with USB ports, which are compatible with most electronic devices. This versatility allows backpackers to charge everything from smartphones to cameras with ease, as long as they have the appropriate USB cables.
AC Outlet Chargers: If you need to power larger devices, such as laptops or other high-energy electronics, AC outlet chargers are essential. These chargers typically come with built-in inverters that convert stored battery power into standard AC power, making them suitable for various applications on the go.
Which Features Make a Backpacking Charger Ideal for Outdoor Use?
The ideal features for a backpacking charger emphasize portability, durability, and efficiency for outdoor use.
- Lightweight Design: A backpacking charger should be lightweight to minimize the overall pack weight while hiking. This feature ensures that it won’t add significant bulk to your gear, allowing for easier mobility on long treks.
- High Capacity: Look for chargers with a high mAh (milliampere-hour) rating to ensure they can store enough energy to charge your devices multiple times. A higher capacity means you can rely on it for extended trips without needing frequent recharges.
- Solar Charging Capability: Many backpacking chargers come with solar panels, making them ideal for remote areas where electricity may not be available. This feature allows you to harness renewable energy, ensuring your devices stay charged while reducing reliance on traditional power sources.
- Durable and Weather-Resistant: An ideal charger should be built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including drops, scratches, and exposure to elements like rain or dust. Look for chargers with rugged designs and IP ratings that guarantee protection against water and dust ingress.
- Multiple USB Ports: Having multiple USB ports allows you to charge several devices simultaneously, which is particularly useful for groups or when using multiple gadgets. This feature enhances convenience, enabling you to keep your phone, GPS, and other devices powered up at the same time.
- Fast Charging Technology: Chargers that support fast charging can significantly reduce the time required to recharge your devices, which is essential when you’re in a hurry. Features like Quick Charge or Power Delivery can provide faster power delivery, ensuring your devices are ready for use sooner.
- LED Indicators: LED indicators that display battery status are helpful for monitoring remaining power levels. This allows you to plan your charging needs effectively and avoid unexpected power loss during your adventures.
How Do Durability and Weather Resistance Impact Charger Performance?
Durability and weather resistance are crucial factors that significantly influence the performance of the best backpacking charger.
- Material Quality: The materials used in the charger affect its ability to withstand harsh conditions. High-quality plastics and metals resist wear and tear from drops or impacts, while robust connectors prevent damage from frequent plugging and unplugging.
- Water Resistance Rating: Chargers with a higher IP (Ingress Protection) rating are better equipped to handle exposure to moisture. A waterproof charger ensures that rain or splashes do not compromise its functionality, which is essential for outdoor use.
- Temperature Tolerance: Chargers designed to operate in extreme temperatures can maintain performance without failing. This is particularly important for backpackers who may encounter both high heat and freezing conditions, as temperature fluctuations can impact battery efficiency and lifespan.
- Shock Absorption: Chargers with built-in shock absorption features can endure rough handling and accidental drops during hikes. This ability not only prolongs the life of the charger but also ensures that it continues to work reliably in rugged terrain.
- Port Protection: Chargers equipped with protective covers for their ports prevent dirt and debris from entering, which can cause short circuits. This is particularly beneficial in outdoor settings where dust and sand are prevalent.
Why is Portability Critical for Backpacking Chargers?
Portability is critical for backpacking chargers because travelers need a lightweight, compact power source that can easily fit into limited packing space while providing sufficient energy for their devices in remote locations.
According to a study by the Outdoor Industry Association, nearly 70% of backpackers prioritize lightweight gear to enhance their mobility and comfort on the trail, making the size and weight of charging devices essential considerations for outdoor enthusiasts.
The underlying mechanism driving this need for portability stems from the nature of backpacking itself, which often involves traversing varied terrains over long distances. A bulky or heavy charger can add unnecessary strain and fatigue, potentially leading to a less enjoyable experience. Additionally, as hikers venture into areas without access to traditional power sources, the ability to carry a lightweight and efficient charger becomes paramount for maintaining the charge of essential devices like GPS units, smartphones, and cameras. This combination of portability and utility ensures that backpackers can stay connected while minimizing the weight of their gear.
How Can Smart Technology Improve the Usability of Backpacking Chargers?
Smart technology enhances the usability of backpacking chargers in various ways:
- Adaptive Charging: Smart chargers can automatically adjust their output based on the device’s needs, ensuring efficient charging without damaging the battery.
- Solar Integration: Many smart backpacking chargers incorporate solar panels, allowing users to harness renewable energy while on the trail, extending their charging capabilities.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Some chargers offer Bluetooth features, enabling users to monitor battery levels and charging status through a smartphone app, enhancing convenience.
- Multiple Device Compatibility: Smart chargers are designed to work with various devices, providing multiple output options such as USB-C, micro USB, and Lightning connectors for diverse charging needs.
- Power Bank with Smart Features: Advanced power banks include features like fast charging, quick-discharge capabilities, and built-in safety mechanisms to protect both the charger and devices.
Adaptive Charging: These chargers can sense the type of device connected and adjust the voltage and current accordingly, which helps in prolonging the lifespan of the device’s battery. This means that whether you are charging a smartphone, tablet, or a camera, the charger will optimize the charging speed while preventing overheating.
Solar Integration: Integrating solar panels into backpacking chargers provides a sustainable energy source, enabling hikers to charge their devices in remote areas without access to traditional power sources. This feature is particularly useful for extended trips, allowing users to maintain power without the need for additional batteries.
Bluetooth Connectivity: With Bluetooth-enabled chargers, users can connect their devices to a corresponding app that provides real-time updates on battery status and usage statistics. This capability ensures that campers can manage their power consumption effectively and avoid running out of battery during critical moments.
Multiple Device Compatibility: Smart backpacking chargers often come with various output ports that cater to different devices, making them versatile for users who carry multiple gadgets. Users can charge their phones, GPS devices, and even portable speakers simultaneously, reducing the need for multiple chargers.
Power Bank with Smart Features: These power banks are equipped with advanced technology that allows for quick charging and enhanced safety features, such as surge protection and temperature control. This ensures that devices charge quickly while minimizing risks associated with overcharging or short-circuiting, making them ideal for outdoor adventures.
What Are the Most Highly Rated Backpacking Chargers by Experienced Hikers?
The most highly rated backpacking chargers by experienced hikers include:
- Anker PowerCore 10000: This compact and lightweight power bank is favored for its high capacity and fast charging capabilities.
Anker PowerCore 10000: The Anker PowerCore 10000 is a favorite among hikers due to its compact size, making it easy to carry in any backpack. It features a 10,000mAh capacity, which is sufficient to charge most smartphones up to three times, and its PowerIQ technology ensures the fastest possible charge for your devices.
Which Backpacking Charger Offers the Best Value for Money?
The best backpacking charger options provide a balance of capacity, weight, and features that cater to outdoor enthusiasts’ needs.
- Anker PowerCore 20100: This charger is known for its high capacity and portability, making it a favorite among backpackers.
Anker PowerCore 20100: This portable charger has a 20,100mAh capacity, allowing for multiple charges of smartphones and smaller devices. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and it features fast charging technology, making it a reliable option for backpackers who need quick power on the go.
What Are the Top Features of Recommended Models for Backpacking?
Battery capacity is crucial for ensuring that you can recharge your devices multiple times throughout your trip. A higher mAh rating indicates a larger capacity, which translates to longer usage without needing to recharge the charger itself.
Durability is particularly important for outdoor equipment, as backpacking can expose gear to rough conditions. A charger that boasts water resistance and rugged construction will be more reliable and long-lasting in the face of unforeseen circumstances.
Charging speed can significantly affect convenience during short breaks while on the trail. A charger that offers quick charging capabilities can save valuable time, allowing users to get back on the trail faster.
Solar charging capability adds an extra layer of convenience for those on extended trips. Being able to recharge the charger through solar energy can help ensure that you have power even when you are miles away from civilization.
Having multiple output ports is advantageous for groups or those who rely on several electronic devices. This feature allows for efficient charging without needing to wait for one device to fully charge before plugging in another.
Compatibility is key to ensuring that your charger meets all your needs. A versatile charger that can handle various devices will make it easier to keep everything powered up without carrying multiple chargers.
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