Charging Tesla at Hotels Without Destination Chargers

Tesla owners often face the challenge of charging their electric vehicles (EVs) while away from home. This difficulty becomes even more pronounced when staying at hotels that may not offer destination chargers, or when the hotel’s electrical outlets are strictly limited to short-term use. Let’s explore some practical solutions and real-life scenarios to address this challenge more effectively.

Real-Life Scenario: Charging Tesla at a Hotel

One of my memorable experiences involved using a destination charger at a nearby hotel. It happened just once, but it was both fortunate and harrowing. Upon arriving, my Tesla's battery was at 60% and soon after, it dropped to 19% SOC (State of Charge) due to my lack of foresight in checking for available charging spots. I had to walk almost a half-mile back to my hotel, setting an alarm to wake up and venture back to the car before it was fully charged, which occurred around 4 AM. Thankfully, a destination charger was available nearby, or I would have looked for alternative EV charging stations using apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint.

Real-Life Charging Situation: Turo Rental Tesla

My most awkward charging situation took place about three years ago. It was my first time driving a Tesla Model 3 rented through Turo, just to test it out. I rented the car in Cincinnati and was planning a trip to Clarksville, Tennessee. I charged the Tesla to approximately 60% at a supermarket in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, before heading to Clarksville. Unfortunately, I failed to check for available Superchargers in Clarksville, and upon arrival, the SOC had dropped to 19%, leaving just enough battery to drive half the distance back to the supermarket charging station! I was left with no choice but to search for alternative charging options using apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint. In this case, a destination charger was found at a car dealership in downtown Clarksville, about 5 miles from my accommodation. I inquired with the service department, and they kindly allowed me to use it without charge. The charging process was slow, taking nearly six hours to achieve a sufficient charge to return to Elizabethtown, as planned.

Important Tips for Chargers and Charging Solutions

While the above incidents highlight the challenges of managing EV charging while traveling, it's important to be prepared. Here are some tips and insights to navigate these situations more smoothly:

Tips for Charger Usage and Planning Ahead

Check Superchargers Ahead of Time: Before embarking on a trip, always check for Supercharger availability in your destination areas. This can be done via the Tesla app or websites like ChargePoint. Utilize Destination Chargers: Understanding the locations and availability of destination chargers before renting a car can save you significant hassle. These chargers are often found at hotels, shopping centers, and dealerships. Third-Party Apps: Apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint can be invaluable in finding open EV charging stations and destination chargers. It's a good idea to have several apps installed to ensure you have multiple options. Plan Back-Up Scenarios: Always have a back-up plan for where you might charge if your primary destination doesn't offer the necessary charging options. Use Navigation Apps for Real-Time Chargers: Apps like Google Maps or ChargePoint have real-time updates and can alert you to the status of chargers even during daytime driving.

Conclusion: Preparing for Tesla Charging Abroad

Regrettably, not all hotels and rental car companies provide Tesla-friendly charging solutions. Yet, with careful planning, the use of third-party apps, and a bit of flexibility, you can enjoy your road trips without worrying too much about running out of battery. Always prioritize checking for available chargers beforehand, and have a clear understanding of your vehicle's battery range. With the right preparation and the use of modern technology, you can tackle any Tesla charging challenge that arises.