Solar panels have become a necessity in our day to day lives. There can be a power outage, or you are out camping into the wilderness. So how do we know which are the best portable camping solar panels in the market?
There are so many doubts that surround us when we think of purchasing a solar panel, especially which product to trust. So, we tested a few products and shortlisted those that worked best during our camping trips. We will answer all the related questions and give you a list that has the best camping solar panels reviews. This will help you in finding the portable solar cells for camping that you can invest in.
But to start off, let’s see what we need to know before we order for a compact solar panel.
- Quick Overview
- 8 Best Portable Camping Solar Panels
- Buyer’s Guide – Best Portable Camping Solar Panels
- 8 Best Portable Camping Solar Panel Reviews – In-Depth Review
- 1. ACOPOWER Portable Solar Panel Kits
- 2. Renogy Portable Monocrystalline Solar Panel
- 3. Jackery SolarSaga Portable Solar Panel
- 4. Rockpals Foldable Solar Panel Charger
- 5. SUAOKI Solar Charger
- 6. DOKIO Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel
- 7. HQST Portable Foldable Solar Panel
- 8. SunJack Portable Solar Panel
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Quick Comparison Of Best Portable Camping Solar Panels
- Final Verdict
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8 Best Portable Camping Solar Panels
- ACOPOWER Portable Solar Panel Kits
- Renogy Portable Monocrystalline Solar Panel
- Jackery SolarSaga Portable Solar Panel
- Rockpals Foldable Solar Panel Charger
- SUAOKI Solar Charger
- DOKIO Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel
- HQST Portable Foldable Solar Panel
- SunJack Portable Solar Panel
Quick Comparison Of Best Portable Camping Solar Panels
| Product | Watt | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. ACOPOWER Portable Solar Panel Kits | 120 W | 8.95 pounds | Check Price |
| 2. Renogy Portable Monocrystalline Solar Panel | 100 W | 12.8 pounds | Check Price |
| 3. Jackery SolarSaga Portable Solar Panel | 100 W | 10.33 pounds | Check Price |
| 4. Rockpals Foldable Solar Panel Charger | 100 W | 5.1 pounds | Check Price |
| 5. SUAOKI Solar Charger | 60 W | 4.5 pounds | Check Price |
| 6. DOKIO Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel | 100 W | 5.72 pounds | Check Price |
| 7. HQST Portable Foldable Solar Panel | 100 W | 34.5 pounds | Check Price |
| 8. SunJack Portable Solar Panel | 25 W | 2.5 pounds | Check Price |
Buyer’s Guide – Best Portable Camping Solar Panels
Types of Solar Panels for Camping
- Monocrystalline solar panels– these are pricey yet highly efficient solar panels. Their efficiency is also the most affected by shading and dirt.
- Polycrystalline solar panels– These are slightly less efficient and inexpensive compared to monocrystalline panels, these also have a longer lifespan.
- Thin-film (amorphous) solar panels- Thin-film solar panels perform better in higher temperatures and hot climate, cloudy weather, or even in partial shading conditions. These are also the least expensive as compared to the other two and are lightweight, mostly foldable.
Size of the Panel
While camping, the most important rule is to pack light and carry all the essentials.
Since we have established that Solar panels are essential for a camping trip, we need to make sure that these are compact and will not take much space when setting a tent.
In short, we need small solar panels for camping.
Dust and Waterproof
Your solar panels for camping must be weather and dust resistant as you set out for your trip. This is because you don’t want to be stuck without power in case the weather takes a turn, and your panel failed to store energy. (IP67)
Power Output / Storage Capacity
Estimating your energy demands is vital before you invest in a solar panel.
You need to determine what kind of appliances do you carry to your camping site and for how long do you run them. This way, you will be able to calculate your daily energy consumption while in a camp.
Also, take into account what kind of climate do you usually prefer for your trips. This will help you in finding the best portable camping solar panel for your trip.
Price
While purchasing electrical units make it essential that you get the one that has better features and a longer lifespan. So even if the best ones can be a little pricey, it can be a one-time investment if purchased smartly.
Portable / Fixed Solar Panels
- Portable solar panels are easy to set up as they don’t particularly need to be installed and are excellent in case you are an avid traveler.
- Fixed panels- If you travel by car or RV, these can be set on the roof and charged while you are on the road. So these can be a great addition depending on how much sun your vehicle gets.
The recommended choice will be to invest in the best foldable portable solar panels if you are going camping.
8 Best Portable Camping Solar Panel Reviews – In-Depth Review
1. ACOPOWER Portable Solar Panel Kits
Best Overall Portable Camping Solar Panel
Key Features
- Easy to setup
- Velcro Design for Opening
- Pre-wired
- Backpocket holds charge controller and other accessories
- No tools needed for setup
- Ultra-Portable and Lightweight
- A Handle is pre-installed
- Monocrystalline
Technical Specifications
| Watt | 120W |
| Dimension | 23.7 x 18.9 x 1.9 in |
| Weight | 8.95 pounds |
Our Opinion
It is one of the best camping solar panel kits for your camper if you like to go backpacking.
This is compact and so lightweight that even wind can overturn it. Well, that is one issue, but it can be quickly resolved by putting something more substantial around the panel to easily secure it.
It comes pre-wired and has stands, which makes it easy to adjust and direct the panel to the direction where the sun is shining. It will give you more than enough power to charge items like LED lights, air fans, cell phones, kindle, etc. if it got decent sunlight.
The three panels fold together nicely and resemble a portfolio when closed. These panels are secured by Velcro tabs. However, the Velcro on the back pockets were not able to keep it closed after some use when packed with controller and cords.
It would have been preferable if the USB ports worked when the controller was not connected with the panel, but we know that with good things come to a little adjustment. So if you are thinking of buying this solar panel, you don’t have to second guess yourself. This product is worth it.
What We Like
- The pre-installed wires and stands allow an easy setting-up in 2 mins
- Compact and light
- The carry bag is sturdy
- Convenient grommets all around to peg it down.
- Secure Velcro closure to keep the panels closed up
- No glass panels
- The panels are flexible and sturdy.
- The folded unit has a back pocket for the controller and cables.
- Easy to read LCD display
- Multiple USB charge ports.
- Made of Polyester with a water-resistant coating.
What We Don’t Like
- Wind can overturn the cells.
- Power drops in the shade.
- The controller must be connected to support USB charging.
- The charge controller is not waterproof.
2. Renogy Portable Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Great Value Folding Portable Solar Panels for Camping
Key Features
- Adjustable corrosion-resistant aluminum stand
- Heavy-duty handle and latches
- Protective case
- Ideal output 500 Watt-hours per day
- Expandable
- Operating Temperature: -40°F to +185°F
- Portable
- Monocrystalline panels
Technical Specifications
| Watt | 100W |
| Dimensions | 69.1 x 6.1 x 50.5 in |
| Weight | 12.8 pounds |
Our Opinion
This solar panel is made for you if you like to travel in a car or an RV. It is a bit on the heavy side for backpackers.
It is easy to move and set up. We encountered a little difficulty when trying to set it up at an angle where it would get better sunlight. But since it is a portable solar panel, the van could be kept in the shade and the panel in sunlight to make the battery full.
It is an excellent addition if you want to use it to charge the 12v accessories. It comes with a protective casing, which is quite sturdy and keeps the solar panel safe. The charger connector is waterproof, so you don’t have to remove it if you are on the move in case there is rain. It also has an LED that shows that it is working, and gives a digital read of the output.
It easily gives around 7 Amps, which is more than enough for a day in the van. The cables can be extended, and if you require more coverage, you can buy extra cables and make it work more efficiently.
What We Like
- Easy to move and set up
- A high-quality case for protection
- The solar charge controller is easy to work with
- Waterproof solar charger
- Build quality is sturdy and top-notch
What We Don’t Like
- Adjusting the panel at a correct angle with the sun was a little difficult
- Short cables
3. Jackery SolarSaga Portable Solar Panel
Most Popular Portable Solar Power for Camping
Key Features
- Lightweight and adjustable kickstands
- High conversion efficiency up to 23%
- Equipped with one USB-C(5V,3A) output port and one USB-A(5V, 2.4A) output port
- Operating Temperature Range -10℃~65℃
Technical Specifications
| Watt | 100W |
| Dimension | 22.8 x 19.7 x 2.4 in |
| Weight | 10.33 pounds |
Our Opinion
The adjustable stands are folded in with the help of Velcro. So, you just have to unfold the stand and panel, adjust the positions at a right angle to the sun for maximum output.
The Solar Saga may tip over if there is a gust of wind, but convenient grommets at the corner can be used to tie it securely. It can tolerate a little rain, but if you see the clouds rolling, it is better to remove before the rain shower.
The cables are not very short, but if you need to set up the panel a little farther away in the sun, it is better to keep a cable extension. With the 2 in-built USB ports, you can quickly charge your phones, LED lights, camera, etc.
You can also build a solar panel generator system with the help of a compatible battery. The system can be used without disconnecting the battery from the panel. It does lose some power in the shade, but it is workable, you if you are in the shade it will still work but give you less output.
What We Like
- Easy to use and set up
- Lightweight and compact
- Grommets at the corner
- 2 inbuilt USB ports (USB-A and USB-C)
- Gives off great power
- Adjustable kickstand
- Back pockets to store cables and connector
What We Don’t Like
- It is not waterproof
- Short cables
- Will tip over in the wind
4. Rockpals Foldable Solar Panel Charger
Most Portable Solar Cells for Camping
Key Features
- 100W fast solar charger
- Operating Temperature:0-120 F
- Solar Panel Type: Monocrystalline
- Waterproof
- 4 panels can be folded into a briefcase
- Handle and pouch included
Technical Specifications
| Watt | 100W |
| Dimension | 64.5 x 20.5 x 1.2 in |
| Weight | 5.1 pounds |
Our Opinion
This waterproof panel is a charger only device. So you would need to get a battery to store the charge. However, like a charger, it is quite efficient.
The only issue that you might face is positioning the devices so that they are out of the sun, but the panel is in the sun. So it will require you to do some planning.
You can keep the devices in a backpack as well but that would also not be able to keep the heat out for long. So getting a battery is more efficient if you are thinking of purchasing this solar charger.
It is an excellent choice because of the built-in IC chip that identifies your device, maximizes the charging speed, and protects the device from overloading.
The solar panel is water-resistant. It is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, picnic, etc. It can be easily folded into briefcase size with a handle making it easy to carry.
It is compatible with almost all solar generators in the market and can be considered as one of the best portable solar chargers for camping.
What We Like
- It is durable and water-resistant
- Two 5V USB outlet and one DC 12V Port
- It has four panels that can be folded together to briefcase size.
- The build quality is superb
- It has a waterproof pouch to hold the cables
- Easy to use little water will not damage the camping lantern.
What We Don’t Like
- It is a charger only
- Charging laptops is not recommended
- It is efficient when DC and USB charge is not being used together
- The junction box is not waterproof
- No internal batteries to store power
5. SUAOKI Solar Charger
Most Comfortable Solar Charger for Camping
Key Features
- Compatible with most of the battery pack on the market
- 5V USB and 18V DC dual output
- foldable solar kit
- built-in smart IC for the USB port
- Splash proof
Technical Specifications
| Watt | 60W |
| Dimension | 11.5 x 2.9 x 7.1 in |
| Weight | 4.5 pounds |
Our Opinion
The best thing about these folding portable solar panels for camping is that you can hang them and use them as per your convenience. You can hang it on the tent, RV, or spread it out on the beach. If you are going backpacking, you can attach it to the bag and directly charge your phone, iPad, GPS, etc.
It can even tolerate a little rain, if not downpour. The inbuilt IC chip protects your device from getting overcharged and overloaded.
Since it does not come with an MC4 cable or battery to store the charge, it adds up to the cost of the setup. It does not have a kickstand, so it becomes a little challenging to put it at the right angle with the sun.
But all in all, if you want the best solar charger for camping, this might be the best choice for you.
What We Like
- Works as a direct solar charger
- Portable
- Compatible with the majority of batteries in the market
- Works partially in the shade
- Folds into a compact size
What We Don’t Like
- Does not include MC4 cable
- Does not have a kickstand
6. DOKIO Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel
Budget Pick Small Solar Panels for Camping
Key Features
- Lightweight and ultra-thin
- Foldable with carrying handle
- Monocrystalline solar cell
- High-efficiency power conversion
Technical Specifications
| Watt | 100W |
| Dimension | 27.9 x 13.8 x 0.2 in |
| Weight | 5.72 pounds |
Our Opinion
These lightweight and foldable panels are great for outdoor activities. When tested for backpacking, they were easy to handle.
The panels also work great when you go camping in a car or RV. You can hang it wherever you find it convenient. It has an integrated USB port to keep your devices charged.
When it is getting proper sunlight, it will keep your appliances running and your battery fully charged. It has an easy-to-read LCD display, which is quite helpful when determining the solar panel performance.
However, in the shade, the power output drops considerably. But solar panels are meant to work in the sun, so that should not be considered a drawback.
What We Like
- It is lightweight and portable
- Can hang it anywhere with the help of a carrying handle
- The monocrystalline cells maximize the power output
- It comes with a controller that has easy to read LCD display
What We Don’t Like
- It does not have a kickstand
- It works only in strong sunlight
7. HQST Portable Foldable Solar Panel
Most Heavy duty Solar Power for Camping
Key Features
- HQST 100W monocrystalline solar suitcase is a plug and play system
- The charge controller is optimized for a 12V/24V system
- Monocrystalline Portable Solar Suitcase
- Aluminum kickstands
- Handy traveling bag
- Heavy-duty latches and handles
- The solar charge controller provides protection against overcharging, reverse-current, short-circuit, etc
Technical Specifications
| Watt | 100W |
| Dimension | 30.3 x 22.7 x 5.3 in |
| Weight | 34.5 pounds |
Our Opinion
It is a little on the heavier side and most suitable for going camping in a car or RV. If you are parking your vehicle in the shade, you might need a cable extension to keep the solar panel in the sun.
The kickstand allows you to angle the panel so that it catches maximum sunlight for the best output. It’s LCD display shows the operational information.
It is quite sturdy and was able to tolerate some rain when we encountered on our way to the campsite. It comes with a protective casing and a travel bag that makes it easy to carry.
The 10A built-in Solar charge controller protects against overcharging, short-circuit, and reverse current. It is easy to use and works great for a portable camping solar cell.
What We Like
- It has a charge controller with an LCD display
- It comes with a protective casing
- Foldable non-corrosive aluminum stands
- It is portable and comes with a travel bag
- Easy to use
What We Don’t Like
- The controller is not waterproof
8. SunJack Portable Solar Panel
Most Lightweight Folding Portable Solar Panels for Camping
Key Features
- Portable and sturdy
- Flexible
- Efficient with built-in IC chip
- Includes 2 power banks
Technical Specifications
| Watt | 25W |
| Dimension | 12.5 x 8 x 1.2 in |
| Weight | 2.5 pounds |
Our Opinion
Even though the product was a little expensive, it was worth it. It gives out enough power to charge any device that uses a USB connector.
It comes with two 10,000mAh power banks with USB-C ports and Qualcomm quick charge 3.0 to charge your cell phone up to 80% faster than generic chargers. We were able to charge 5 phones and a tablet from the power bank without losing much charge.
It can be folded into a compact size, making it portable but a little heavy, which is not very ideal for a backpacking trip unless you are alright with carrying a low weight. So if you are thinking of investing in this product, they are an excellent choice for when you are using small devices on a trip.
What We Like
- It comes with 2 power banks
- It can charge almost any device that uses USB
- Portable
- Foldable and compact
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Final Verdict
The most important features to look for in a portable solar panel for camping is that it should be efficient, waterproof, lightweight yet sturdy. The best portable solar panels for camping were ACOPOWER Portable Solar Panel Kits and Renogy Portable Monocrystalline Solar Panel. Both of these solar panels are portable.
However, Acopower is comparatively more lightweight than Renogy.
If you are going backpacking, then Acopower is an excellent investment. It is a foldable portable solar panel that gives enough charge for items like LEDs, cell phones, fans, etc. It has 3 panels that can be folded into an average-sized structure and is held by Velcro.
However, if you think it is not the best solar panel for you, then you can always consider Renogy. For us, it worked quite well, especially as it gave us a clear reading of the panel’s operational data. Its cable can be easily extended to keep the panel in the sun and your van in the shade.
Though these were our preferred choices for the camping trips. If you think we should try out some other solar panel with better features, please do share your valuable comments with us in the section below. You know we love to hear from you.
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