Best Portable Solar Panels for Camping in 2023

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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.

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Benefits of Using a Portable Solar Charger for Camping

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.

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Camping Solar Power Buying Advice

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

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.

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Pair Your Solar Panel With a Portable Power Station

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.

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Need More Help?

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!