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Best Portable Solar Panels for Camping in 2023

The best portable solar panels for camping are now incredibly affordable.

You can easily find a quality solar charger for recharging smartphones for under $50. Or, you can go all out and spend several hundred on a top-of-the-line setup that pairs portable solar panels with a portable power station.

Today, I’m going to break down all the different options.

We’ll start with my top recommendations for both solar chargers and solar panels before moving on to a basic rundown of what makes these solar power devices tick.

relaxing in a hammock while using a portable solar panel for camping

Our Top Picks

Best Overall
BigBlue 28W SunPower Camping Solar Panel

Best Ultralight
Goal Zero Nomad 10 Solar Panel

Best High Power
Goal Zero Boulder 100

Best All-In-One Solar Charger + Power Bank for Charging Small Electronics
Anker PowerCore Solar 20000


Best Portable Solar Panels and Solar Chargers for Camping


Best Overall

BigBlue 28W SunPower Camping Solar Panel

Solar Panels Charger with Digital Ammeter, BigBlue 28W SunPower Camping Solar Panel, Dual USB(5V/4A Overall), IPX4 Waterproof, Compatible with iPhone 13/11/Xs/X/8/7, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel

Type: Solar Charger

The BigBlue 28W is our favorite portable solar panel for camping due to it’s versatility and low cost.

Not only is it affordably priced, but it’s durable, reliable, and has one of the fastest charging speeds of any solar charger.

The BigBlue 28W boasts 28 watts plus a large surface area for a quick charge. It features SmartIC Technology to detect exactly which type of device you’re using to deliver the fastest charge possible. Two USB outlets let you charge two devices at once.

This BigBlue camping solar charger is known for its durability. It’s made from high-quality, waterproof materials to prevent damage. It’s our favorite solar charger for camping in the rain.

This device’s only downside is its weight. It’s not huge by any means, but at 24 ounces, it’s a little too hefty for most backpackers.


Best Ultralight

Goal Zero Nomad 10

Goal Zero Nomad 10, Foldable Monocrystalline 10 Watt Solar Panel with USB Port, Portable Solar Panel Backpacking, Hiking and Travel. Lightweight Backpack Solar Panel Charger with Adjustable Kickstand

Type: Solar Charger

The Goal Zero Nomad 10 is our favorite ultralight solar charger for backpacking.

It weighs in at just 1 lb 1.6 oz total. A compact, foldable design complements this lightweight construction. Fold open for a larger solar surface area or fold closed to stash in your pack.

A weatherproof outer layer helps the Nomad 10 excel in lackluster conditions. Designed to shed rain and snow, you can even use this portable solar charger while camping in the winter.

As the name implies, this Goal Zero portable solar panel boasts an output capacity of 10 watts, more than enough to efficiently charge smaller devices like smartphones, GPS units, and headlamps.

Additional highlights include the built-in LED indicator that displays current solar strength and an included kickstand to achieve an optimal charging angle (and provide a shady place for your charging devices).


Best for Charging Power Stations

Goal Zero Boulder 100

Goal Zero Boulder 100 Briefcase, 100 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel

Type: Solar Panel

The Goal Zero Boulder 100 is my favorite portable solar panel for charging portable power stations.

As the largest device on our list, this solar panel is best for car camping only…

In fact, the Boulder 100 is a top choice for solar for RVs, camper vans, and other vehicle dwellers that want a portable power setup.

Unlike a solar charger, this portable solar panel can’t charge devices directly. Instead, you must use it to charge a portable battery pack or portable power station (like the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300), which you then charge your devices.

As the name implies, the Boulder 100 boasts 100 watts of total output. It provides 7000mA power output to your device.

Because the Boulder 100 is quite large, Goal Zero offers a foldable model – the Goal Zero Boulder 100 Solar Panel Briefcase.


Best Solar Charger + Power Bank

Anker PowerCore Solar 20000

Anker PowerCore Solar 20000, 18W USB-C Power Bank 20,000 mAh with Dual Ports, Flashlight, IP65 Splash Proof and Dustproof for Outdoor Activities, Compatible with Smartphones and Other Devices

Type: Solar Charger + Power Bank

The Anker PowerCore Solar 20000 has a solid reputation as a great solar charger + power bank for camping.

Its small size limits the amount of charge it can take in from the sun, but its large 20,000mAh capacity can provide 5-10 charges for most modern cell phones.


Great for Laptop Charging

X-Dragon 40W

X-DRAGON 40W Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel Portable Charger (5V USB with Solar IQ + 18V DC) Waterproof Solar Panel for Laptop, Tablet, Cellphone, Laptops, Camping, Hiking, Travel (18V 40W)

Type: Solar Charger

The X-Dragon 40W is a fantastic solar charger for those planning to charge laptops while camping.

Because it’s so powerful, it’s quite large. It’s pretty dang heavy and also quite bulky, which makes it best for car camping only.

The large size does have its benefits in terms of performance. The 40-watt output capacity and large surface area make the X-Dragon ideal for charging smartphones, laptops, and more.

As a solar charger, the X-Dragon doesn’t have a built-in battery. For best results, we recommend pairing it with a portable power bank or power station. This allows you to recharge your devices at night.

We definitely recommend this camping solar charger for car campers, van dwellers, and the like – but we recommend backpackers steer clear of it.


Nekteck 28W

Nekteck 28W Solar Charger, Portable Solar Panel with 2 USB Port, IPX4 Waterproof Hiking Camping Gear Sunpowered Adapter Compatible with iPhone 12/11/11pro/Xs, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Camera

Type: Solar Charger

The Nekteck 28W is a great solar charger for those on a tight budget.

It has a high-efficiency design that boasts 28 watts total plus a power conversion rate of between 21% and 24%.

The device utilizes a built-in smart IC chip for fast-charging technology that helps the panel identify individual devices to improve charging speeds.

This Nekteck solar charger is also notable for its durability. It has flexible yet sturdy panels coupled with rugged canvas for a one-two punch of strength and robustness.

Although the Nekteck 28W isn’t the lightest option available at 20+ ounces, it does fold up small and compact making it a decent option for backpacking.


Renogy 15,000maH

Renogy 15,000maH

Type: Solar Power Bank

The Renogy 15,000maH is a unique addition to our list.

Yes, it’s a solar charger – but it also has a built-in battery bank. None of our other top-ranked solar chargers have this feature.

We love this device’s small size, streamlined design, surprisingly good charging performance, and low price.

Honestly, we rank this Renogy solar charger on top as our number one solar charger for backpacking.

That said, it’s not really the best choice for car camping. Most campers probably prefer something a little more robust when weight/size isn’t a major issue.

Because it’s so small, this Renogy solar power bank is ideal for charging smartphones and other small devices. It’s just not powerful enough to charge anything much larger.


Benefits of Using a Portable Solar Charger for Camping

Camping solar panels set up outside of a tent

Here are the top benefits of using a portable solar panel or solar charger for camping and backpacking.

  • Charge Devices – Reliably charge all your devices, including smartphones, camping lanterns, portable power stations, and more.
  • Communication – Keep your smartphone charged up for use in emergency situations while camping.
  • Eco-Friendly – Portable solar panels are much more environmentally friendly than gasoline generators for camping.
  • Safe & Quiet – Unlike generators, portable solar power is quiet and safe. There is no noise, no hazardous fumes, and no moving parts.
  • Affordable – Not only is the initial cost of the best solar chargers affordable, but using them is very cheap. You don`t even have you plug them in for electricity. All you do is rely on the power of the sun to keep your devices charged.

Keep these portable solar power benefits in mind while looking for the best solar panels, chargers, and other devices for camping.


Camping Solar Power Buying Advice

Portable solar phone charger on the sand

Before you buy a portable solar panel for camping, it`s important to first address the following points.

  • Your Devices – What types of devices do you hope to charge with solar power? Tablets and smartphones have much different power requirements than mini fridges, air conditioners, winter tent heaters, and other large appliances.
  • Power Output – The higher the number of watts, the more electricity the solar panel is capable of generating. Most portable models generate anywhere from 5 watts up to 40 watts. Power output correlates directly with the type and number of devices you wish to charge.
  • Number of Users – More users typically means more devices to charge. A larger solar charger with a higher power output is ideal for multiple people that plan to use the same solar setup while camping.
  • Style of Camping – Camping, backpacking, and boondocking all require different types of portable solar power. A small, lightweight charger is ideal for backpacking while a robust, more powerful system is best for RV boondocking.
  • Trip Duration – A portable solar charger without a battery pack works for short backpacking trips but a higher watt model with a portable power station does wonders for longer camping trips.
  • Camping Location – Solar power for camping is ideal in wide-open locations, yet most panels don’t work as well in shade, such as dense woodland. Make sure your devices will get enough sun by considering your preferred camping terrain before making a purchase.
  • Mode of Travel – Solar chargers are most effective when left in one place. They are less effective when you`re moving. If you plan to charge a device while backpacking, canoeing and kayaking, or cycling, look for a model built for on-the-go charging.

Your answers to these questions will help you assess and prioritize your needs so that you select the best camping solar panel for your needs and preferences.

How to Choose the Best Solar Panel or Solar Charger for Camping

Backpacking backpack with a portable solar panel on mountainside

Now that you have a better idea of what you`re looking for, here are a few of the most important portable solar panel features to look at during the buying process.

  • Rigid or Flexible – A foldable solar panel is the best option for most backpackers and campers as it allows you to quickly fold it down for storage or transport. A rigid model is best suited for use with RVs and camper vans.
  • Output Capacity – Power output is measured in watts. Match the output capacity of your solar charger with the devices you`ll use. Generally, you need at least 5 watts to charge a smartphone, although more watts does increase charging speed and also enables you to charge larger devices.
  • Surface Area – Small solar panels are lightweight and compact but typically have a slower charging speed. Larger solar panels, on the other hand, are able to collect more sunlight for faster charging. Foldable solar panels enable you to collect a lot of sunlight but fold down for compact transport and storage. 
  • Size & Weight – The best backpacking solar panels are lightweight and compact. Most fold down while not in use for further space savings. Alternatively, many RV and car campers choose larger solar power systems with built-in batteries to provide multiple device charging.
  • Storage Type – Most backpacking solar chargers do not have built-in batteries. Instead, they simply use the converted energy to immediately charge your devices. If you prefer a model that stores converted energy, look for one with a built-in battery pack. You can also buy a portable power station to act as a separate battery.
  • Durability – Your solar power source should be rugged and durable to stand up to the rigors of regular outdoor use. However, some ultralight backpackers prefer to sacrifice some durability in favor of additional weight savings.
  • Features – Some portable solar chargers come with a single charging port while others come with multiple to charge several devices at once. Other features include hooks for hanging or daisy chaining compatibility to link several portable solar panels together.

Keep these important factors/features in mind while evaluating the best portable solar panel and solar charger reviews below.


Pair Your Solar Panel With a Portable Power Station

Camping trailer with a solar panel for portable power

Your solar panels and/or solar charger are just one component of an effective portable solar power system for camping.

Although a solar charger is beneficial for backpacking on its own, most tent campers and RV campers would do well to pair their solar panels with a portable battery.

A portable battery pack for camping enables you to store the energy your solar panels capture from the sun. You are then able to use these solar power batteries to run your devices at night and in inclement weather.

First, make sure that the portable battery power bank you select is compatible with your solar panels or solar charger. Next, look for a model with your preferred style of outlets, such as AC Power, 12V DC (car charger), and USB.


Need More Help?

Portable solar panel charging a phone in the snow

Since first adding portable power to my camping gear list, you`ll be hard-pressed to find me without a portable solar panel or portable solar charger while camping or backpacking.

If you’re still not sure which device is right for you, then please don`t hesitate to reach out to us in the comments below.

I`m happy to help answer your questions and point you in the right direction!

Anna

Friday 12th of March 2021

Hello,

Thank you for compiling this great list!

I am searching for the right solar panel to take on a dog sledding expedition... We can forgive a lot in the weight/bulk department, but importantly we need something that can perform in cold weather (sub zero) and that can handle charging a laptop, batteries for a SAT phone, Garmin, or headlamp/lantern (not all at once). Where might you suggest we begin our search?

Thanks.

Jacquelynn Proscia

Sunday 26th of July 2020

Hi there,

Thank you for this information. I am struggling still with what to buy. We don't want to break the bank, but want something with an internal battery that would be able to be charged while hiking and won't get interrupted if it gets cloudy. We are thinking more survival mode style - that is still lightweight.

Would love your suggestion! Jacqui

Jake Walnut

Tuesday 28th of July 2020

Hi Jacqui,

A lightweight folding solar panel like the Goal Zero Nomad 7 (the Nekteck 21W is also great) is probably a good option if you're just hoping to charge smartphones and other small devices while hiking. It doesn't have a built-in battery so you'll need to charge your devices directly from it while it's in sunlight. It has several built-in loop hooks so it's easy to hang off the back of your backpack for easy charging while on the move. Solar panels actually work quite well in overcast weather.

A portable battery bank is another option if you prefer to skip the solar panel. I like the Venture, Sherpa, and Flip lines from Goal Zero. You charge these up at home (or in your car or from a solar panel) and then charge your devices directly from them. A battery pack is nice because they are very lightweight and you can use to charge your devices up at night while camping. Depending on the model you buy, you can get several iPhone charges from a single battery pack charge. The only downside to these is the lack of ability to recharge in the woods unless paired with a solar panel. So they're not always the best option for long backpacking trips. I'm a big fan of Goal Zero for camping, but I also really like Anker's line of portable charging banks.

Hope this helps!

Deborah Torres

Friday 24th of July 2020

I am looking for the best one for Camping for a Birthday gift

Julien Radiguet

Sunday 26th of April 2020

Hello, thanks for the great test, I'd like to know, how much is supposed to last the BigBlue?

Thank you for everything

Zoe

Tuesday 28th of January 2020

Hi, I was given a Powertraveller Solar kit as a gift (so no receipt!). I used it a time or two in the back yard and it worked well. I was looking forward to using it camping. We had a sunny day so I got it out to charge up the battery pack. No joy ... the panel seems to be kaput. The battery pack is still good. Do you know if there is any way to figure out what is wrong with the panel and hopefully repair it? I hate to add it to the landfill. Also how do I figure out what other panel would be compatible with the battery pack I have? Thanks, Z

Ryanc

Wednesday 29th of January 2020

Hi Zoe,

Sorry to hear about your Powertraveller! I can't say that I know anything about repairing solar panels/chargers. Also, isn't the battery and panels built together as one unit on the Powertraveller? So I'm not sure that you can necessarily get new panels to go with the battery. Sorry, I wish I could be of more help!