Having chosen a model that is to be powered with a glow fuel engine, either a two-stroke or four-stroke, some thought should be given as to what items will be needed in order to start the engine, and allow for simple maintenance of the model at the flying field.
As a general rule you will need something to carry your equipment in, a field or flight box! Flight boxes come in all shapes and sizes, and basically the choice is whether to make your own or buy a box that is in kit form or ready made, whatever you decide it is important that it is both sturdy, fuel proof, and able to carry the items you need.

So what items are generally required for the flight box?
Well assuming you have either bought or built a flight box it should have a compartment to carry a few essential tools, propeller nut spanner, glow plug wrench, a few screwdrivers etc, not too many tools though, you don’t want to weigh yourself down with a “mobile workshop” maybe a some 5 minute epoxy, or cyanoacrylate (super) glue for instant minor repairs, and if possible have space to carry a container of glow fuel, and most importantly your radio transmitter, there very few modellers that have not arrived at the flying site only to find out that they have left their transmitter at home some time or another!

If you intend to use an electric starter to start your engine you will also need a small 12Volt battery to power it, you will also need a 2Volt battery to power the glow plug igniter/driver.
So with the need for two separate voltages and an ability to supply simultaneous power to separate items the easiest, and most economical way to achieve this is to use an electronic power panel.
Most power panels on the market perform a multitude of essential tasks, and thanks to the use of modern state of the art electronics the power panel can, from a single 12Volt battery source provide a 2Volt variable amp current supply to the glow plug, a 12Volt supply to the electric starter, and at the same time 12Volt power for a fuel pump to fill and empty the fuel tank.

Of course if you are a dedicated electric model flyer then the flight box can be used to carry all of the essential items that you might need when at the flying field, such as tools, spare flight battery packs, chargers, and numerous other items needed for a great days flying.

Time and experience will dictate how much equipment you take to the flying field and at first you will probably take too much, but ideally there should be just enough to maintain your model on site and enjoy your flying, major repairs and overhauls are best left until you return home.

Go to E-flite for electric flight specific accessories.

Go to Hangar 9 for gas flight and general accessories