Gear review: Booster PAC ES5000 Jump Starter

– from Clore Automotive

In the circle I grew up with, we had a particular upbringing.

Meaning, if you get yourself in a mess, you better figure out how to get yourself out of it, too.

Not that we never lent, or accepted, a helping hand at times.

But ultimately it was up to us to figure out life’s curveballs.

A legacy of that upbringing is perhaps a strong, self-reliant streak.  Previous partners would argue that perhaps there is TOO much of an independent streak. But that’s another story. 🙂

And part of that independent streak is making sure I can get myself back from a trailhead.

One item I purchased more about five years ago is a jump starter pack.

Why?

Simply put: If you travel to remote trailheads you should have one of these items.

AAA is not going to come out to some place that needs an atlas to find.  There is a good chance there will be no one at the trailhead with some jumper cables to give you a boost.

The weather gets cold? Is your battery a little older? It is now 6 p.m., it is -10F, and you can’t start the car up?

Guess what?

I hope you enjoy sleeping in the car until the morning comes and it warms up a bit.

The particular model I bought is the Booster PAC ES5000.

It has been a workhorse for myself and others.

My battery died in the parking lot at work after-hours during a cold snap last year. What could have been a hassle turned into a minor inconvenience instead.

But I’ve helped out others at trailheads twice now as well.   I’ve given jumps in town a few times, too.

The pack is robust and with 400 cranking amps,  plenty of juice to start up my 2005 Kia Sorento built on a truck frame even when cold.  It holds a charge rather well. I spot check it all winter, and it is never low.  Obviously, if you have a larger vehicle, you may need a larger capacity pack. Likewise, if you have a diesel vehicle.

There is a 12v outlet so that I can power or charge other devices in a pinch, too.

Other jump starter packs have built-in compressors, longer cables, and other features.

But the Booster Pac 5000 is both compact and reliable.

Not to say other jump starters won’t work.

I just know this jump starter works.

And works well.

If you want to spend $125 on a new pack, rain jacket, shelter or stove, consider purchasing a jump starter instead.

I should also add that there are less expensive ones in the $50 or so range, but for cold weather you’ll want something with higher cranking amps total. Spend a little more money for something with more oomph overall and you are less likely to get stuck when it counts!

A good jumper is an investment for outdoor trips every person should have in their auto kit.

And it will be far more useful in the long run as well.

Caution: Obviously, use care when dealing with anything electrical. RTFM first before you are at a trailhead where it is -10F and you are stuck! 

Disclosure: I purchased this with my funds.