Best Portable Solar Panels for Camping

Published on: March 25, 2022
Written by Liam Jaxon / Fact-checked by David Rowan

The problem I’ve faced most during camping is charging my phone and other electronic devices.

Only a good quality solar panel can be the source of energy in these cases. They turn sunlight into electricity. Nowadays, new technology makes solar panels more flexible, comfortable, affordable, and better performing than before.

By using them you’ll be able to give power to your devices with the power of sunlight without electricity.

Moreover, you can meet your purpose without causing any harm to the environment. This is the reason I love them.

You will find many models with great features available in the market which will make you a little bit confused to choose one.

To give you a clear idea and save you time, I’ve shortlisted the top 10 of them and the basic characteristics of a good quality solar panel.

Curious about the utilization of solar innovation? Try not to stress! We’ll lay everything out for you so you can learn quickly and settle on an educated choice about what items will work well for you.

We’ll also tell you the best way to separate the various types of items available and how to figure out which one will work well for you. There are a lot of extraordinary items out there – that’s the reason we’ve set aside the effort to compile a list of the solar panels available.

You can easily pick the one that meets your needs among them.

Types & Use of Portable Solar panels

You’ll find mainly two types of portable solar panels in the market.

1. Adaptive or Semi-Flexible Solar Panels

These panels are made of plastic or laminate and only bend around a 30-degree angle.

You can install or uninstall and transfer this type of solar panel with the surface between caravans, boats, RVs, and other locations.

2. Foldable Solar Panels

You can easily pack or unpack foldable solar panels and carry them in the backpack for hiking or other adventurous activities.

How Does Solar Portable Panels Work

Solar energy allows us to use energy that is available around us and let us live a clean, healthy, and environment-friendly lifestyle. But you may wonder about the working process of solar panels!

Solar panels are composed of many tiny cells and they can absorb sunlight. They are known as photovoltaic cells. These cells can convert the energy they absorb from the sun to usable energy for solar panels.

In short, they absorb photons & generate electricity for us to run electric appliances and devices.

Photovoltaic cells are made of 2 pieces of semi-conductive material that give the opposite charges and create an electric field, which helps the solar panel to do this.

Whenever solar panels consume photons, they get ready to produce electrons. And these electrons are gathered at both ends of the cells and transferred to the solar panel by a wire. So this is the process that creates solar energy with the help of solar panels.

Some Benefits of Portable Solar Panel Chargers

• They don’t need any external electrical source to recharge your battery;
• The solar cells generate no emissions or byproducts;
• Easy to move and environment friendly;

Here we go for review and showing a comparison chart of some top portable solar panels –

How to Choose Accurate Portable Solar Panels for Camping?

Before buying a portable solar panel, you must consider some basic features.

Wattage

Must select the model with better performance that includes the charging time.  Solar panels with high wattage can be charged completely within a very short time.

Output Power

Output power is another worthy feature to look for. The panel with amazing output power takes a short time to recharge it.

Connections

Must check the type of connections you’ll get from the model and pick the one which allows you to connect easily with different types of devices.

Dimensions

Buying a model that is compact, lightweight, and easy to use will be more effective.

Accessories

You’ll find different types of accessories depending on various models. Some come with extension cables, charging indicators, adapters, and more. It is better to have the one which will perform best and accessories can enhance its performance.

Functionalities

Some models can be a combination of a flashlight, charger, and solar panel, these will be great for different types of applications. Pick the one that delivers you the best functionalities you need.

Reliability

You’ll need to ensure the panel will work when you’re out and about. A solar panel ought to be a venture so assuming the cost sounds unrealistic, it very well may be inadequate in quality. Likewise, ensure the sun-powered charger is made of great water-safe materials to stay away from harm in the downpour or snow.

Versatility

Since you must move the panel from your home to your RV or vehicle, you need to ensure you’re ready to convey it and that you see how to introduce it. A few packs arrive in a satchel and others have voyaging cases. Simply be certain you can go with it and store it securely.

Are Portable Solar Panels Safe to Use While Camping?

Portable solar panels are generally safe to use while camping as long as they are used and stored properly. It is important to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use, as well as any safety precautions. It’s also important to ensure that the solar panel is placed in a location where it will not be damaged by wind or other elements and that the cables and connections are properly secured to prevent accidental disconnection. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the solar panel is not placed in a location where it could cause a fire hazard or be a tripping hazard.

What Are the Advantages of Using Portable Solar Panels While Camping?

There are several advantages to using portable solar panels while camping, including:

1. Energy independence: Portable solar panels allow campers to generate their own electricity, eliminating the need to rely on traditional power sources such as generators.
2. Cost-effective: Portable solar panels are a cost-effective alternative to purchasing expensive generators and fuel.
3. Eco-friendly: Portable solar panels are a clean and renewable energy source, making them a more environmentally friendly option compared to generators.
4. Convenient: Portable solar panels are easy to set up and use, and can be easily transported to different camping locations.
5. Versatility: Portable solar panels can be used to power a variety of devices such as lights, phones, laptops, and other small electronic devices, providing a great way to stay connected and stay powered on the go.

Some Examples of Portable Solar Panels for Camping

Go Power GP-PSK-120 120W Portable Folding Solar Kit

• It has a 10 amp charge controller;
• It has a quick connector feature;
• Come with SAE solar plug adapter;

The Go Power! GP-PSK-120 portable solar kit is a great device for solar charging. It’s available in 2 models- 80watt & 120 watts. This device is foldable.

This foldable solar panel is perfect for those types of people who do not want to mount a solar charger panel to their rooftop permanently because it offers some best offers like versatile & convenient battery charging options.

You can put it in the shade while your device sits in the sun to recharge your batteries. The amazing Anderson-style charging feature connector lets you interchange the charging accessory quickly that suits your needs.

It allows maintaining a trailer battery or RV while on the way to charge your ATV, car, or boat battery. The Go Power! the portable solar kit comes with a quick charging option with the capability of various types of battery charging options.

Things We Liked

• It is a heavy-duty kit with a nylon storage case;
• Has a simple and quick setup;
• Contains a 10 amp charge controller;
• Has an amazing quick charging feature with Anderson-style charging;
• Produce 120 watts of power 6.7A DC per hour;
• 15′ of UV 12/ cable;
• XLR-style SAE solar plug adapter & ring terminal connectors;
• Battery clamps & includes a carrying case.

Things We Didn’t Like

• A little bit large size to carry freely;

Read More: Residential Wind Turbine – Top 5 Reviewed & Buyer’s Guide

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Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts – Portable Solar Charge Controller for RV

• It has a high solar cell efficiency;
• It’s great for a new customer in the solar panel;
• It can output 500W with IP 65 rating;

Renogy 100 watts 12V Monocrystalline solar starter kit is designed for that kind of people specifically who are new to this solar. This kit comes with a new system of necessity such as 100 watts 12V Monocrystalline solar panel, 20 feet 10AWG MC4 adapter, 8 feet 10 AWG tray cable, Z-brackets set & 30A charge controller.

This is great for RVs, boats, sheds, trailers, etc. it provides many benefits like grid independence and quiet power production. The negative grounding controller ensures safety and broader off-grid applications, especially for vehicles that have battery negative on the chassis.

It also prevents system failure. This Renogy solar panel kit can extend your travels further than ever before. This is an EL-tested device, so you won’t be worried about the heating experience. It has high solar cell efficiency of Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline. The bypass diodes reduce power drop caused in low light environments. It is a long-lasting product with IP65 Rating. This item is sealed, flooded, and has a charging algorithm ready.

It also ensures you a safe system that is equipped with multiple electronic protections such as overload, overheating, short-circuit & reserved polarity. This solar panel is expendable. With your Renogy wanderer 30A PWM, you can extend your system up to 400 Watts.

Things We Liked

• The negative grounding controller ensures safety;
• It can output 500W a day & can charge 50Ah battery in just 3 hours;
• 30A PWM charge controller;
• Has 8 feet 10AWG wire;
• TPT back sheet gives a smooth performance for a long period;
• You can extend the system up to 400 watts;
• EL tested a solar kit that gives no hotspot heating experience.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Less power of watts than similar products.

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ACOPOWER 100W Portable Solar Panel Kit for Marine Boats

• Build-in charge controller makes it ready for a 12V battery;
• MC4 connector design for a solar generator;
• Waterproof feature;

The ACOPOWER 100W Portable Solar Panel Kit with waterproof 20A charge controller for both 12V battery and generator for laptop tablet SLR GPS cell phone other 5-12V devices. It has dual port output so can you can charge 2 devices at the same time; one is DC output (up to 12V) and one is USB output.

It is also versatile & ultra-portable so you can charge your mobile or laptop devices as well as your car and storage battery by using the DC port which is included with the set by the sunlight.

ACOPOWER provides a built-in smart IC for the USB port charger that can quickly & automatically identify the current of your equipment and can speed up the device’s charge progress. It charges the storage battery without overloading or overheating the devices by using the clamp.

You can also use the solar panel near the swimming pool or on the beach without our fear because it has a waterproof layer that lets you charge your device without getting wet. This is perfect for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, or traveling because of its paper-sized and bag-shaped folding feature.

ACOPOWER solar panel is truly a great assistant to keep you out of many complicated situations with unlimited and clean power from the sunlight with up to 25% efficiency. It includes a 40W foldable dual-port solar charger bag, car charger, clamp, required cables, etc.

Things We Liked

• Compact size allows you to carry more freely;
• Easy Set-up: pre-installed stand allows for easy and quick set-up;
• Waterproof;
• Portable: two 50 watts solar panels attached in pairs for portability;

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

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ECO-WORTHY 200-Watt Portable Solar Panel Kit

• Transforming DC into AC, extending the use of this system;
• User-adjustable option for lead-acid battery and lithium battery;
•  600W Pure Sine Wave Off Grid Solar Inverter With LCD display.

The ECO-WORTHY 200 Watt Portable Solar Panel Kit is specially designed for RVs, cabins, homes, boats, backup power, and remote power use. This portable solar panel has 2 major breakthroughs. Its high transformation efficiency is up to 21%.

It has a beautifully unique design with a voltage regulator that ensures stability. So your devices will get stable charging though the input becomes unstable. This device has the ability to charge multiple devices at a time.

This solar cable is suitable for smartphones, tablets, iPods, iPods, external battery packs, etc.

This solar kit will provide on average 820 Watt Hours (Wh) or 75 Amp hours of charge per day (depending on sunlight availability). Can be wired for 12V or 24V battery charging.

This solar kit has safety protection. This pack includes a complete kit like 2pcs 100 Watt panels, 30-Amp (user adjustable) LCD display P30L solar charge controller with battery temperature sensor, 40 feet of UL listed 12 AWG solar cable, all necessary MC4 connectors, and installation manual.

Things We Liked

• The complete kit includes;
• Unique design;
• Includes 30-Amp (user adjustable) LCD Display;
• Has good safety protection.

Things We Didn’t Like

• No Noticeable Cons.

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Kingsolar 40W Portable Solar Panel for Power Station

• It has a dual output port;
• It ensures you a safe system;
• Ultra-lightweight (2.8 Ib); 
• Ultra-compact (13.2x 6.9x 1.9in folded or 47.2x 13.2in opened);
• The power conversion rate increases up to 23.5%;
• Produce more power.

The KINGSOLAR foldable portable solar charger has dual charging output. This solar power charger is suitable for hiking, camping, traveling, etc. it’s compatible with smartphones, laptops, tablets, and all charging Devices.

The efficiency of this solar panel is up to 23.5%. That’s better than other similar products. It has an intelligent power supply ability. Its uniquely designed voltage regulator ensures the current ability to protect devices while charging. It has Mono solar cell, PET, EVA, and TPT premium material and circuitry which ensure lifetime reliability.

It is a compact light folding design of solar panels which helps you to use them freely. This device is highly environmentally friendly. You can enjoy an easy charging facility anywhere with its unlimited clean and free solar power.

Things We Liked

• Dual-port output;
• Made with premium materials;
• Highly environment friendly;
• Able to charge 2 devices at a time;
• Compact size, easy to carry;
• Voltage stability capability;
• It can damage its electric circuit in water conditions.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Batteries could be much better.

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Hiluckey Solar Charger 25000mAh Portable Power Bank

• 25000mAh ultra-high capacity;
• 4 Times Light-absorbing Solar Panels;
• High-speed charging;
• Easy to hang it anywhere via hook.

The Hiluckey Solar Power Bank is not the most impressive charger around. At one point in terms of energy, it’s the lowest in this rundown. Nonetheless, in general, the best explanation for this is that it stays with a high-limit power bank.

Or then again rather, you could say this is a power bank that ends up having a solar panel joined to it. Most solar panels expect you to either involve the power as it’s created or purchase a costly power bank to associate with it.

This panel doesn’t have that issue since you can leave it out the entire day and utilize the put-away power at whatever point you need.

This makes it reasonable for outdoor and wild activities in general, including use during times of crisis. While that wasn’t enough, this solar panel has a bright, working LED spotlight for similarly connected utilities.

Things We Liked

• Built-in high-power power bank;
• Durable enough for most outdoor activities;
• Dual USB ports offer 2.1A high-speed charging ;
• Comes with two high-speed charging ports.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Smaller than other portable panels;
• Not good if you need a lot of electricity at once.

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FAQs

What are the Types of Solar Panels?

There are several organizations producing sunlight-based boards today. The vast majority of the sun-based board choices presently accessible fit into one of three classes:

                        1. Monocrystalline. 

                       2.  Polycrystalline (otherwise called multi-crystalline)

                       3. Thin-film.

The major types of  the best solar panels :             

                   1.  Portable and flexible

                     2. Lightweight. 

                     3. Style.

How Many Watts Solar Panels Do I Need for My RV?

This panel, which has around 100-watt control, is fit for delivering around 6 amps per peak sun hour on average. This can also mean around 30 amp-hours day by day. In that situation, you will in all probability need 2 solar panels (around 100 watts each) to energize or give the full capacity to your RV on an average day.

How Much Power Can a Portable Solar Panel Generate?

The amount of power that a portable solar panel can generate depends on the size and efficiency of the panel. On average, a typical portable solar panel can generate anywhere from 10 to 100 watts of power. However, there are some portable solar panels that can generate up to 200 watts or more, depending on the specific model and brand. Keep in mind that the amount of power generated also depends on the amount of sunlight that the panel receives.

How Long Do Portable Solar Panels Last?

The normal future of a solar panel is around 30 years. However, contingent upon the nature of the panel, the components it’s been presented to, and how well it’s been kept up, it may last well past the three-decade mark.

Why Get Camping Solar Panels?

Compact solar panel chargers for camping make travel safer. Since you are off the network, they can be used to re-energize cell phones and crisis gadgets. They include a significant number of built-in LED spotlights, which are valuable in the evening, and larger models can control smaller 110V machines.

Final Words

Finally, all the models I’ve described above are the best models available in the market. They can be a great support for you while enjoying hiking, camping, or other outdoor activities.

Just take time, compare the models, keep in mind the features mentioned above and pick the one that matches your requirement.

A good quality portable solar panel can make your trip smooth and comfortable and also helps you to reduce bills at home. You will be able to power up your appliances without impacting the environment.

Now that you know how the solar panel for camping can profit you, you can pick the best framework for your needs and go appreciate the advantages of peaceful, clean vitality.

So pick the one you need and enjoy!

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