Best Portable Solar Panels for Camping in 2022

In just the last few years, solar technology has made a phenomenal leap forward. Today you can find quality panels for under $50 that will recharge your smartphone or tablet easily and quickly while on the go. For heavier use cases like outdoor camping, where charging power is needed to run an electric fan overnight, it’s possible to invest in a heavy-duty portable setup with more than one panel as well as a high capacity battery bank that stores any energy collected during daylight hours when sunlight conditions are favorable enough for efficient operation of photovoltaic cells embedded into these devices.

So we’ll start by taking a closer look at the best portable solar panels for camping. Then, let’s dive into our guide.

Comparison Table of Portable Solar Panels for Camping in 2022

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Types of Portable Solar Panels

1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels:

Monocrystalline solar panels are the type of panel that generates the most power in low light conditions. They’re also more durable, a single large silicon crystal, and less sensitive to high temperatures than polycrystalline or amorphous panels. Still, they cost much more per watt ($1-2/Watt) because fewer cells can be packed into a square foot of space. You can check “Newpowa 180W(Watt) Solar Panel 180W on Amazon.

2. Polycrystalline solar panels

Polycrystalline solar panels are a good alternative to monocrystalline panels for RVs. They take up less space and cost significantly less, but they still produce high-quality power that will easily meet the needs of an RV setup. Check one of these best solar panels for RVs on Amazon.

3. Thin Film

The last thing comes alive, Thin Film! Solar panels cover a wide range of technologies, but most are categorized into three types: polycrystalline silicon cells (also called multi-crystal or wafer), monocrystalline solar cells, and thin film.

The type used is largely dependent on installation options and budgets; for example, if you require the panel to be mounted in tight corners, there’s not enough space with thin films, whereas they have more flexibility than other types while also being less expensive. Check the “7-Watt Amorphous Solar Power Battery Charger” on Amazon.

12 Best Portable Solar Panels for Camping

1. Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Off Grid Portable Foldable 2Pcs 50W Solar Panel

The Renogy Monocrystalline Portable Foldable Solar Panel Suitcase is a suitcase with solar panels that can be carried where you need it and provides up to 500-watt hours per day. In addition, it has an IP65 waterproof design, weighs 27 pounds, folds down to 19.9″ x 27.2″ x 2.8″, and comes at an affordable purchase price of this product on Amazon!

The aluminum stand measures adjustable, so you can use it in different environments—even if there isn’t any light. This is one of the best portable solar panels for camping you can try today!

KEY-FEATURES:

• Brand: Renogy
• 2Pcs 50W Solar Panel Suitcase
• 20A built-in 5-stage Solar charge controller
• Compatible with gel, sealed, Lithium, and flooded batteries

Advantage:

• Output 500 Watt hours per day
• The low-voltage system
• Avoids electric shock hazards

Disadvantage:

• Wind damage is a very real threat

2. Keshoyal Portable Solar Panel 60W Foldable Solar Panel Charger Kit

Get the 100-watt solar panel to charge your smartphone and tablet on the go. It has a high conversion efficiency of up to 24% with a built-in smart IC chip for a maximum charging time for your devices and protection from overcharging or overload.

Although small and compact, this solar panel has 60 watts of instant power and can be used to charge 5V USB devices, such as phones, tablets, cameras, and more. The foldable design is compact, so it’s easy to carry around with you no matter where you are! With a 12-month warranty included, this kit is perfect for those who spend a lot of time out in the Sun.

You’ve finally found the perfect power source for your devices, whether you are out in nature or sitting by a campfire.

KEY-FEATURES:
A thickness of 0.2 inches
High conversion efficiency of 23.5%
Equipped with 8 DC adapters

Advantage:
This 60W is the perfect size
Don’t want to lug a big panel? Great on trips
It’s so neat and easy to carry

Disadvantage:
The cloud gives half that in wattage

3. DOKIO 150 watts Solar Panel Kit Portable Folding Monocrystalline

The Dokio Solar panel kit is perfect for charging your car, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, RV battery, or in emergencies where there’s no power. It can be used to shine a light on your shed if you’re not sleeping well enough already. Don’t camp out without one of these panels! Hook it up to an inverter, and now you’ve got what could turn into the apocalypse vector we need.

If you enjoy adventuring outdoors with your phone as your lifeline, this could be the perfect product for you. With a 150W power output and a USB port to charge anything anywhere, Dokio Solar Panel Kit is an ideal solution for people who need to contact work or have colleagues that they want to meet at possible locations. Store it with ease thanks to its compact design that also includes solar panel charging capabilities.

KEY-FEATURES:

• Well protected with a thick fabric pocket sewn
• Solar charger for all 12V batteries
• This solar panel packs 150W of power
• 18V optimum power voltage

Advantage:

• Lightweight to carry
• Ideal for charging your car battery in emergencies
• Easier to mount

Disadvantage:

• Loses charge while charging on a sunny day

4. Keshoyal Foldable Solar Panel- 60W Portable Solar Panels with 5V USB and 18V DC for Camping

“It’s not all about hiking. Sometimes, you need to plug in your guitar and shower before bed.” The Keshoyal 60W foldable solar panel is a tough little unit that can take some heavy daily use while providing phone charging safety for the whole group.

It’s built with a waterproof neoprene bag used as an arm sling or a convenient carrying case on bumpy terrain. Using four rubber feet, it contains the USB cables elegantly beneath its silicone-coated surface.

The Keshoyal 60-watt foldable solar charger also has two USB outputs so multiple people can charge their devices at once–even if they have different device chargers! So you’ll never have to worry about being without power again, and this solar panel is made for camping.

KEY-FEATURES:

• 60W with USB output
• The efficiency of 23.5%
• Waterproof & high-temperature resistant

Advantage:

• Multiple small devices
• It can be used in portable power stations
• Outdoor activity to prevent accidental power failure

Disadvantage:

• No light that indicates it’s charged

5. Zamp solar Legacy Series 140-Watt Portable Solar Panel Kit with carrying case

The Zamp Solar Portable Solar Panel Kit is one of the best solar panel kits for RVs under 35 feet. This kit can charge all your lights and even a portable computer! It comes with detachable battery clamps, wire measuring 15-feet long, adjustable quick stand legs to position it at different angles to maximize sunlight exposure; 10 amp waterproof charge controller, which slows down charging when the voltage from the batteries starts getting too high or if there’s not enough light available; carrying case that measures 42″ x 24.5″ x 4.5″. The total weight of this wonderful product? 40 pounds!

KEY-FEATURES:

• 140-Watt Portable Solar Panel Kit
• Integrated Charge Controller
• Off-Grid Solar Power for RV
• 25-year output warranty
• Includes SAE plug and alligator clips to connect

Advantage:

• Charges most 12-volt batteries
• No installation required
• Easy-to-store case

Disadvantage:

• Not very portable and very heavy in my opinion

6. ECO-WORTHY 195W 12V Solar Panel – High-Efficiency Mono Module Off Grid PV Power for Battery Charging

The Eco-Worthy Off Grid Solar Panels are perfect for people who enjoy long caravanning trips because of their corrosion-resistant aluminum frame and the pre-drilled holes on the back, which allow them to be mounted with ease. In addition, the panels can offer up 1,000 watts per day thanks to its 195-watt output that is enough power to charge a 50Ah battery from only halfway full (50%) over in just 90 minutes when there is ample sunlight available.

KEY-FEATURES:

• 195W 12V Solar Panel
• Pre-drilled holes for fast mounting and securing
• Used on off-grid situations that include RV, boat, trailers ETC

Advantage:

• 50Ah Battery from 50% in 90 minutes
• Corrosion-resistant aluminum frame
• For extended outdoor use

Disadvantage:

• Bad frame quality

7. Solar Charger 25000mAh, Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Power Bank (With 4 Solar Panels)

The Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Solar Charger is the perfect companion for anyone who wants to be environmentally conscious while camping. With four foldable panels and a 25,000mAh Li-polymer battery with up to 1 amp of current in the sunlight, this solar charger can charge any device multiple times over without running out of power or needing an outlet. In addition, it folds down easily into 6′ x 3 ½” x ¾ inches so that you can take it anywhere – even on your back!

The Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Solar Charger is the perfect accessory for any outdoor enthusiast. It includes a built-in LED flashlight with an SOS mode in case of emergencies or if you forgot your camping headlamp and will ensure that your phone never dies while out on the trail!

KEY-FEATURES:

• Built-in 25000mAh Li-polymer battery
• 4 high-efficiency solar panels
• Dual 2.1A USB ports
• Rugged construction

Advantage:

• High speed charging
• Protects your device from overheated
• Equipped with 9 LED flashlight for night walking

Disadvantage:
Not very portable and very heavy in my opinion

8. Nekteck 21W Solar Charger (5V/3A Max) with 2 USB Port Camping Gear SunPower USB Solar Panel

The Nekteck Portable Solar Panel Charger is the best portable solar charger on the market. It comes with three individual monocrystalline panels, which provide up to three amps of power and can be used for either single or dual USB ports depending on your preference. The IPX4 waterproof rating means that it’s resistant to all weather conditions!

At only 6.3″ x 1.1″ x 11.” When folded (and a mere 17 ounces), this product weighs less than most camping tents you’ll find at outdoor stores, making it easy to bring along whether you’re planning an extended trip away from home or just looking forward to some time in nature with friends.

KEY-FEATURES:

• SunPower Maxeon technology
• Advanced Smart IC Chip Technology
• 3-ounce design
• IPX4 waterproof

Advantage:

• Compatible with Tablets, Cameras
• Rugged for outdoor use
• Foldable Hiking Camping Gear

Disadvantage:
Not very portable and very heavy in my opinion

9. BigBlue 28W Solar Charger for Camping

The BigBlue 28W is our favorite solar charger for camping in 2021. Not only does it have one of the fastest charging speeds, but its durability and reliability make this a great purchase!

The built-in SmartIC Technology will detect your device to give you the best possible charge speed while automatically identifying what type of battery pack or USB outlet you’re using. In addition, it has two ports so that you can easily charge multiple devices at once when necessary.

You won’t need an expensive system because this quality product works just as well on cloudy days, too, thanks to its durable construction from high-quality waterproof materials – perfect if campers like exploring off the beaten path where there may not be any power outlets available nearby!

KEY-FEATURES:

• 28W solar charger
• Industrial-strength PET polymer fabric
• 5V/2.4A Max, dual USB ports up to 4A Max overall
• IPX4 waterproof level

Advantage:

• Compatible with Smartphones, Tablets, Laptop, Power Station
• Efficiency by up to 21.5% – 23.5%
• Easy to Use (Keep under outdoor direct sunlight)

Disadvantage:

• This is an isolated break down of the product

10. Newpowa 100 Watts 12 Volts Polycrystalline Solar Panel

The Newpowa Polycrystalline Solar Panel is the perfect size for those who want to save on space. The solar panel provides high-efficiency output yet only weighs 20 pounds and measures 35.8” x 26.6” x 1.2”, making it easily transportable with its durable frame made of anodized aluminum that will enhance rigidity in any weather conditions.

The Newpowa Polycrystalline Solar Panel is a versatile, powerful solar panel used in sunny and cloudy conditions.

KEY-FEATURES:

• Smaller in Size
• 100W Voltage at Pmax
• Diodes are pre-installed
• 25-year transferable warranty

Advantage:

• Heavy-duty anodized frame
• Pre-drilled holes for mounting
• Better panel performance and lifespan

Disadvantage: 

• Worse is the lead wires are ALUMINUM core!

11. Anker Portable Solar Panel Charger

Anker continues their tradition as a trusted brand loved by many by making products like these portable chargers that make life easier on all kinds of trips.

This solar panel charger is great for those who are going backpacking and want to take two devices that need charging. The Anker Portable Solar Panel Charger has a compact design which makes it easy to attach onto your backpack or tent so you can charge the device wherever you end up being, without having any access to an outlet.

This product comes with SunPower panels designed at 21 watts each- this means they have high efficiency of between 21 – 23%. It also folds down nicely into 11″ x 6 3/4″ when not in use, weighing less than one pound!

KEY-FEATURES:

• Weather-resistant
• Up to 2.4 amps per port or 3 amps overall charging speed
• 21 watt SunPower solar array
• 18-month warranty

Advantage:

• Fast-charging technology
• Sewn into a rugged polyester canvas
• Easy carrying for backpacks, trees, or tents

Disadvantage:

• Direct Sunlight Required

12. Goal Zero Boulder 100 Briefcase, 100 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel

The Goal Zero Boulder Solar Panel Briefcase is the best portable solar panel for campervan trips. Inside, you’ll find a 100-watt monocrystalline solar panel that weighs only 26 pounds and measures 40″ x 26.75′ x 1.75″. The tempered glass construction, rigid anodized aluminum frame, adjustable kickstand, and protective carrying case make this one of the most durable RV solar panels on today’s market while still being lightweight to carry with ease anywhere in your vehicle or home!

KEY-FEATURES:

• Designed with a real-life use case
• Professional grade solar
• Two 50-watt monocrystalline solar panels
• Built-in kickstand
• 2-year warranty

Advantage:

• Greater solar capacity
• Can be used in a wide range of environments
• Great for camping, work sites, off-grid events

Disadvantage:

• It does not put out near the 100-watt rating

How Do I Choose a Portable Solar Panel for Camping?

Efficiency Values

Harnessing the power of solar energy is an important component in today’s world. Solar panels are a great way to take advantage of this free, renewable resource and get back some money at the same time through tax credits. The efficiency rating on these devices will tell you how much your panel can create DC electricity given certain conditions like sunlight or lack thereof and climate considerations for where it may need to operate.

Look for high percentages when purchasing a new one so that they won’t weigh too heavily on space requirements since smaller ones work just fine if there’s plenty of SunSun coming down every day!

Wattage

You can save a lot of money on solar panels by not buying the most expensive ones from the start. Many people who have tried this method say it works well, and they were able to buy an extra panel or two just in case it is needed.

A higher wattage panel is better able to power more electronics at the same time. A high-wattage also means a higher efficiency rating and cost. It’s worth mentioning you can always buy a lower watt panel if it doesn’t work out for your needs, or instead of buying an expensive one from the start.

Water-resistant

Check to see if the portable solar panel is water-resistant. These panels will not work well in rain or snow, but they are a great investment for those who love being on the go!

Easy to carry a portable solar panel

The Case for the Portable Solar Panel: You may need to move your solar panel from place to place. That’s why you must find a case or bag with enough space and protection, so you can carry your panel around safely as needed. Some panels come in briefcase form, while others have their traveling cases! Be sure to purchase one before moving on so that you are prepared whenever necessary.

Easy to travel, Handy

If you’re looking to bring your solar panel along with you on a hike, the device’s size must be customized and lightweight so as not to hinder any movement. On an RV or other vehicle where space may already be limited, make sure that attaching this bulky object will cause no damage before proceeding further.

The traveling we do has a lot to do with how much baggage weight affects us; for those going hiking but want their gadgets like laptops charged, there’s one option: small-sized solar panels! But if they’re being used in conjunction with vehicles such as RVs, please consider whether or not the added bulk would have adverse effects before making up our minds about using them.

FAQs

Can I Take Solar Panels or Chargers Anywhere?

Portable solar panels or chargers are innovative devices used to power up your lead acid or Ni-Cd battery banks. They come in different sizes to suit the needs of every user and typically use an intelligent charge controller for highly efficient charging. Solar chargers can either stand still on rooftops (providing clean energy) or move with you anywhere there is sunlight!

What Wattage Solar Panel Do I Need for Camping?

In reality, you should always overrate your needs by at least 20% to ensure that you’re prepared for anything. For example, if it’s recommended that a solar system supply 180W of power and four people in the household, then we’ll need 360W of panels! That means investing in enough solar panels while also ensuring our regulator is protecting us from any danger such as an unstable charge voltage or current.

Are Portable Solar Panels Worth It?

The SunSun is the perfect power source for a camping trip, hike, or long RV drive. But carrying heavy gas cases can be tiring and cumbersome – not to mention dangerous when you’re hiking in bear country! So instead, a portable solar setup (a few panels hooked up to your car battery) provides enough energy to keep small appliances running on even the hottest days with minimal weight added by batteries that need recharging later.

Whether it is keeping laptops powered at work, teams charged while they make their way out into nature’s playgrounds, powering electric razors after an all-day trek through tough terrain, or ensuring lights are set low inside tents at night, so kids don’t miss any sleep during early morning summer campsites both day campers and overnight participants.

Can a Solar Panel Charge a Power Bank?

Solar power is a clean and renewable way to charge your power banks via a USB port. Solar panels can be attached directly to the device or integrated into it, so you’ll never have an interrupted charging session again!

What Will a 100 Watt Solar Panel Run?

The SunSun is such a powerful force that it can be harnessed to generate power for our devices, and in some cases, even provide warmth or comfort. For example, with just 100 watts of solar energy, you could charge up your cell phone as well as fans on the ceiling, router, or wi-fi speakers- but if there’s something big like an air conditioner or TV, then we’ll need more than one panel.

Conclusion

For the past few weeks, we have selected and tested twelve of our favorite products. We’ve been hard at work testing out some “best portable solar panels for camping” to share with you! We picked 12 high-quality goods from different categories to have something for everyone on your shopping list this holiday season.