Solar gear can help, but don’t let it turn into a shiny trophy. Keep it light, hard‑wired, and test it before you roll into the field. Make sure the panel’s orientation is set once, the battery’s rated for the expected sun, and you have a backup battery or a way to crank a small generator. Treat the solar kit like any other tool: it’s there to keep you powered, not to distract you from staying warm, building a fire, and securing shelter. If it’s a distraction, ditch it. If it’s reliable, it’s just another piece of gear that won’t let you get caught cold or dark.