15 Best Portable Solar Panels For Your RV or Van – 2024 Buyer’s Guide
Living off-grid without sacrificing much in the way or comfort or amenity is one of the biggest attractions to life on the road, whether full-time or just to getaway. Solar panel and battery technology have made giant leaps and bounds, opening up a new world of opportunity for boondocking in style. Read our buyer’s guide for 15 of the best ways to harness the power of the sun and turn it into electricity.
What Is A Portable Solar Panel?
Although fixed solar panels have been around for ages, portable panels give more flexibility because you can temporarily set them up as needed. Portable solar panels use lightweight silicon panels and attached charge controllers to store and generate electricity. You can use them for many purposes and quickly move and put them away.
6 Things to Consider Portable Solar Panels
1. Types of Portable Solar Panels
Monocrystalline
Constructed from a single large silicon crystal, monocrystalline panels produce maximum energy even in low sunlight and are arguably the most efficient option. They are usually the most expensive option as well.
Polycrystalline
Polycrystalline solar panels consist of multiple silicon blocks and require less space than amorphous panels. They are also less expensive than monocrystalline panels but do not produce as much power. Polycrystalline is an excellent choice for a van or RV for the budget-conscious.
Amorphous
Also known as thin-film panels, amorphous panels are created by spreading silicon on a large bed. They are very popular because they are relatively inexpensive. They are also flexible instead of rigid, which opens up more options on how they can be mounted and used.
While flexibility and cost are excellent bonuses, amorphous solar panels require three times the space as monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels to produce the same power output.
2. Wattage Output
Wattage is the power output of the solar panels. Higher wattage will result in batteries charging faster and more available electricity for your camper van.
Solar panels that produce higher wattage for the same surface area will generally cost more. So the general rule is more wattage equals higher cost.
3. Weight
There is not much to be concerned about when it comes to weight and solar panels mounted to your van or RV. Generally, all solar panels you would mount are light enough not to cause a problem, be sure you mount them correctly with the proper attachment hardware.
If you consider portable solar panels, weight is a concern because you will need to move them around and store them. Choose something you can comfortably carry, assemble, and disassemble.
4. Portability
Most portable solar panels come with a case or another way to secure them. Be sure you follow the recommended transport and setup procedure. Also, consider how you plan to use solar panels and ensure you don’t have something too heavy to maneuver or too bulky to store.
5. Reliability
Portable solar panels take a little more beating than permanently mounted solar panels. For this reason, be sure you are looking for quality and something that will hold up to the demands you will put on it.
6. Efficiency
The efficiency values are the percentage of solar energy converted to DC electricity. Higher efficiency means the solar panel will produce more power, take up less space, and weigh less than similar low-efficiency panels. If you plan to drive in conditions where sunlight is a premium, consider Monocrystalline panels as they are more efficient under low light conditions.
What Are The Advantages Of Portable Solar Panels?
There are several advantages to using portable solar panels for your camper van or RV. Let’s do a quick summary.
No Installation
Portable solar panels do not require installation on your camper van or RV. You will not have to drill holes, mount, hardware, run chords, or climb on the roof! Instead, you will need to set them up around your vehicle and position them for maximum sunlight.
Portability
One of the great benefits of portable solar panels is that one can reposition them for maximum sunlight. As the sun moves across the sky, adjust them every few hours to capture the max sunlight possible.
Perhaps the most desirable benefit is you can park your camper van in the shade where it is cool and still have solar panels positioned in the sun. You cannot do this if the solar panels are on the roof.
USB Ports For Direct Charging
Some portable solar panels for camper vans have built-in USB ports to charge devices directly. An available USB port can conveniently charge your phone or tablet while the solar panel charges the rest of the electronics in your camper van.
Easily Connect to Portable Power Station
An everyday van life use of portable solar panels is to connect them directly to a compact solar generator removing the need to deal with a more complicated setup of batteries and a charge controller.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Portable Solar Panels?
With all of the advantages of portable solar panels, there are still some disadvantages.
Expensive
In general, portable solar panels are more expensive than solar panels that require permanent installation. The added expense means you will need to spend more money per kWh if you go with a completely portable setup.
Setup And Take Down Each Time
When using portable solar panels for your camper van, you have to break down and store your solar array every time you move. When you arrive at a new site, you have to set them up again. If you park in a city location where you need to maintain a low profile, using portable solar panels might not be an option.
Need Extra Space To Store Them
Unlike solar panels mounted outside on the roof of your van, portable solar panels will occupy valuable storage space inside. With storage space a premium in most camper vans, this is something to consider, especially if your power needs require many solar panels.
15 Best Portable Solar Panels for Your RV or Van
1. Zamp Legacy Solar Panels
Zamp is headquartered in Oregon, USA and is known for using premium solar cells and confidently offers a 25-year warranty. With this in mind, it is no surprise that Zamp has a strong reputation in the solar industry.
The Zamp solar kit is compatible with 12v and 24v systems. It includes a 140 Watt foldable monocrystalline solar panel, a 10-amp solar charge controller, a 15-foot cable, and a nylon carrying case.
To use it, remove the panels from the case, unfold, and extend the legs. Next, connect the panel to a solar port or battery, and you are good to go!
Highlights
- Dimensions 39.5 x 21.5 x 3.1 inches.
- Monocrystalline
- 10 Amps.
- 180 watts.
- 44.4 pounds
- Slim, easy-to-store case.
- Integrated charge controller.
- Smooth-slide support legs.
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2. Renogy Flexible Solar Panel
Although the Renogy 175W Flexible Solar Panel is often used to mount directly to the top of a camper van, we think they also qualify as a portable option. The two main reasons for including them are that they are incredibly light and don’t take up a lot of space.
With three size options (50W, 100W, and 175w), Renogy is exceptionally flexible with a 248-degree arch. At 6.2 pounds, this panel is extremely thin and weighs 70% less than rigid solar panels. The flexibility and weight make transporting, installation easy.
Highlights
- Dimensions 59.2 x 26.5 x 0.08 inches.
- Monocrystalline
- 8.98 Amps.
- 175 watts.
- 6.2 pounds
- 248-degree arc of flexibility
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4. Renogy 200 Watt Eclipse
Equiped with it’s adjustable aluminum stand, handle, and latches the Renogy 200W Solar Suitcase provides convienence and dependability, two things important when venturing off the grid.
The Renogy includes with two 100W Monocrystalline Solar Panels, 16 inches of whiring and a soft case. The panels come with a 25-year waranty which is amazing if you as us.
Although not as portable as the flexible panels, the power density and output is excellent and well worth taking up the extra space in your van.
Highlights
- 41.3 x 21.1 x 3.1 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 10.5 Amps.
- 200 watts.
- 35.9 lbs
- Foldable
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3. Goal Zero Boulder 100 Solar Panel Briefcase
Engineered in the US, the Utah-based Goal Zero offers a wide range of solar panels from large to small for anything from traveling off the grid in a camper van to small solar chargers for backpacking.
The Boulder 100 features two 50-watt monocrystalline solar panels paired together in a briefcase-style design similar to the Renolgy and Zamp foldable options.
The all-black design and rounded corners make Goal Zero’s offering more appealing. Let’s face it; they look really cool! In addition, to curb appeal, Goal Zero panels are 100% weatherproof. If you are looking for even more solar capacity, simply chain multiple panels together.
Highlights
- Dimensions 26.75 x 43.5 x 1.75
- Monocrystalline
- 7 Amps.
- 100 watts.
- 25.9 lbs
- Foldable
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5. ACOPOWER Portable Solar Suitcase
ACOPOWER is a 20A 12v/24v folding solar panel that brings a light, off-grid energy source to power your camper van efficiently. It is light and power-efficient, but the solar panels are also compatible with most portable charging stations on the market.
To make it very easy to install, ACPOWER designed two kickstands that you can place in just a few seconds. Point the solar panels directly at the sun, and you will quickly be generating electricity.
Industrial-strength glass and hardware made from corrosion-resistant aluminum show ACPOWER means business and intends the solar panels to stand up to the elements and last. Although not waterproof, they are water-resistant, so keep this in mind if you need something you can leave out in a heavy downpour.
Highlights
- Dimensions 28.5 x 21.5 x 4.25 Inches
- Monocrystalline
- 20 Amps.
- 100 watts.
- 26.3 lbs
- Foldable
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6. WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
The Windy Nation 100 Watt Complete Solar Charging Kit is an all-in-one entry-level solution that will get you up and running quickly. It comes with 40 feet of solar cable, connectors, wiring, mounting hardware, and anything else you would need.
With a premium solar charge controller (including digital display), The WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Charging Kit is the ideal beginner solution for your camper van.
The kit includes a 100 Watt WindyNation Solar Panel, 30-Amp (user adjustable) WindyNation P30L LCD Display Solar Charge Controller with Battery Temperature Sensor, 40 feet of UL Listed 12 AWG Solar Cable, all necessary Connectors, solar panel mounting hardware, and Installation Manual.
Highlights
- 40 x 1.38 x 26.4 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 30 Amps.
- 100 watts.
- 19 lbs
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7. Eco-Worthy Solar Panels
The Echo-Worthy solar panels are uber portable (foldable), look great, and are incredibly durable. Set them out facing the sun in the morning and move them throughout the day. They are light and easy to move so following the sun will most surely not be a problem.
Connect multiple panels together to increase the capacity. These units are very thin and easy to store when not in use. Unlike briefcase models, they are less bulky and do not take up much space.
In addition, the panels themselves are rigid. Laminated and made with tough ETFE material, the construction should last for a solid 15 years.
Highlights
- 24.6 x 18.3 x 2.2 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 30 Amps.
- 100 watts.
- 7.7 lbs
- Foldable
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8. ALLPOWERS Foldable Solar Panel
3-in-1: ALLPOWERS portable solar panel 100W has 2 USB ports(5V/2.4A per port) for charging your 5V devices( like smartphones), and 1 DC output(18V/5A) for charging your laptop, portable generator, or 12V car battery; No additional battery needed for charging external devices, 100% green energy.
High Efficiency: ALLPOWERS portable solar panel 100W uses solar cells which is made from US, up to 23.5% efficiency, and the waterproof surface treatment effectively protects solar charger. ALLPOWERS foldable solar panel 100W is compatible with most solar generators in the market.
Slim and Powerful: 100W portable solar charger is only 4.73 lb, 1/3 lighter than the same power of solar silicon. The total power increased by 1/3 in comparison with the same foldable solar panel size. Unfolded Size: 37*37*0.39in, Folded Size: 12.6*7.5*3.6in.
Simple Style: eyeholes enable easy to attach the portable solar panel to a backpack while traveling; Portable and frame design in folded fit for outdoor, indoor, travel, camping, and RV use, no space occupy.
Package Contents: ALLPOWERS 100W Foldable Solar Charger, 5 laptop connectors, DC 5.5×2.1mm to 5.5×2.5mm cable, 1.5m Alligator clip cable, USB cables, carabiners, instruction manual, 18 months warranty, and friendly customer service.
Highlights
- 13.3 x 8.5 x 4.4 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 5 Amps.
- 100 watts.
- 5.29 lbs
- Foldable
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9. Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel
EASY SETUP & KICKSTAND INCLUDED: The Solar Saga 100 features 2 kickstands that can be placed firmly on any surface ground. With just a few seconds of setup, you can start soaking energy from the sun for your Jackery power station. The TPE rubber handle allows you to carry it around easily when taking off-grid adventures.
HIGHER ENERGY CONVERSION RATE: Covered by monocrystalline silicon solar cells, the solar panel adopts multi-layered cell technology to generate energy from the sunlight and perform better with higher conversion efficiency than up to 23% of other conventional panels.
DURABLE & SPLASH-PROOF: The ETFE-laminated case is durable enough to extend the lifespan of the solar panel. It is IP65 water-resistant that will protect from water splashing (Do not place it under the rain, or soak it in water). The zippers on the pocket can hold the power cords, and cover the power port.
COMPATIBLE & VERSATILE: This solar panel is compatible with Jackery Explorer 300/500/1000/1500 power station (sold separately), ideal for off-grid camping and unexpected power outage. Solar Saga 100 features 1* USB-C(5V,3A) output port and 1* USB-A(5V, 2.4A) output port to charge 2 small devices directly.
Highlights
- 22.83 x 19.69 x 2.36 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 3.5 Amps.
- 100 watts.
- 5.5 lbs
- Foldable
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10. Goal Zero Nomad 100 Solar Panel
100 watt (18-22v) foldable and Weatherproof Solar panel
Features an 8mm Goal Zero connector for plug and play adaptability to Goal Zero Yeti power stations
Folds down to 20″ X 15″ X 2″ In a compact portable size
Best paired with a Goal Zero Yeti portable power station
Big wattage, Chainable, and weighs only 10 lbs. For chaining multiple nomadic 100 Solar panels together, purchase an 8mm to app Combiner cable.
Material Type: Monocrystalline
Power Source Type: Solar-Powered
Highlights
- 20.47 x 1 x 59.49 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 3.5 Amps.
- 100 watts.
- 10.2 lbs
- Foldable
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11. BLAVOR Solar Charger
Detachable 5 Solar Panels： BLAVOR brand new design with higher solar energy conversion. When 5 premium solar panels are magnetically attached, it works as a solar panel charger with MAX 1300ma charging current; When it is detached, a sealing bar helps it work as an individual portable power bank with a dual output.
Qi Wireless Charger： The wireless power bank can wirelessly charge all cell phones that support Qi wireless charging technology. Cable-free and tangle-free, compatible with iPhone XR/ XR MAX/ XS/ X/ 8/ 8plus, Samsung Galaxy S9/S9plus S8/S8plus S7/S7edge etc.
Three Flashlight Mode： Press the power button for 3 seconds, work as a torch, press the button again, flash as an outdoor signal light, press the button again, quick flashing Strobe light comes after signal light.
Dual USB Max 2.1A Output： Premium lithium polymer battery, high capacity, and long life span. 2.1A USB port, 1.0A USB port, and Qi wireless output allow you to charge 3 devices simultaneously with max 2.1A high-speed charging(only USB one supports 2.1A high-speed charging). Auto-detect your devices’ current to pair the optimal output. NOTE: Type C is an input port and does not support output.
What You Get& Occasions：1*20,000mAh Solar Charger, 1*Type C Cable, 1*Warranty Card, 1*User Manual,12-Month Warranty. for outdoor activities, like camping, cycling, fishing, traveling, hiking, and beaches.
Highlights
- 11.1 x 1.1 x 6.3 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 3.5 Amps.
- 21 watts.
- 1.2 lbs
- Foldable
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12. Anker Portable Solar Panel Charger
100 watt (18-22v) foldable and Weatherproof Solar panel
Fast Charging Technology: PowerIQ delivers the charging speed up to 2.4 amps per port or 3 amps overall under direct sunlight. 21 watt SunPower solar array is 21.5-23.5% efficient, providing enough power to charge two devices simultaneously
Incredibly Durable: Industrial-strength PET polymer faced solar panels sewn into a rugged polyester canvas offer weather-resistant outdoor durability
Highly Portable: Compact size (11.1 × 6.3in folded or 26.4 × 11.1in opened) and stainless-steel eye-holes on each corner allow easy attachment to backpacks, trees, or tents. The lightweight and ultra-thin design make it ideal for long treks
What You Get: Anker PowerPort Solar (21W 2-Port USB Solar Charger), 3ft Micro USB cable, welcome guide, our fan-favorite 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service
Highlights
- 11.1 x 1.1 x 6.3 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 3.5 Amps.
- 21 watts.
- 1.2 lbs
- Foldable
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13. Nekteck Portable Solar Panel Charger
- HIGH CONVERSION EFFICIENCY Built with highly efficient SunPower Maxeon solar cell that is known to perform better than conventional panels in the market. It can produce up to 28W which is higher compared to other solar panel chargers
- DURABLE AND WATER RESISTANT Highly reliable for outdoor use like hiking, camping, and long travels. With its IPX4 waterproof technology, robust canvas surface, and stitching it can withstand different weather conditions.
- PROVIDES POWER FOR 2 USB DEVICES: It can simultaneously charge 2USB devices up to 2.4A(5V) max per port or 4.0A (5V) as its maximum charging power. And it is compatible with the majority of mobile phones- iPhone series/iPad/Kindle Fire/Galaxy tablets/Galaxy S, GPS, Camera, tablets, and other USB devices(USB-A to Lightning Cable is NOT included)
- FOLDABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT The solar panels can be folded (6.3x 11.1x 1.1 inches) and can easily be attached to your backpack or travel bag since it has 2 metal hooks and 5 eyelets. small size panel, When all folded up it takes up the size of a notebook. You can bring it whenever you’re outside traveling, hiking, fishing, or trekking so your devices never run out of power while there is sunlight.
- SMART IC CHIP TECHNOLOGY and SAFETY FEATURE Built with voltage stabilization and an innovative chip that detects the best or maximum charging requirement of your device so your devices can be charged safely and fast.
Highlights
- 6.3 x 11.1 x 1.1 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 2.4Amps @ 5V per port
- 28 watts
- 2 USB-A Ports
- 23oz
- Foldable
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14. Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Solar Charger
25000mAh High Capacity: Built-in 25000mAh Li-polymer battery, it can charge your phones 8-10 times or tablets 3-4 times for an average of 9 days of usage per charge.
4 Solar Panels: With 4 foldable high-efficiency solar panels, up to 1A input current under the sunlight, which is 4 – 6 times faster than the other solar chargers. You can also use the micro USB cable to charge it.
Dual USB 2.1A Output: Dual 2.1A USB ports allow you to charge 2 devices simultaneously with 2.1A high-speed charging. Auto-detect your devices’ current to pair the optimal output.
Built for Outdoors: Rugged construction is dust, shock, and waterproof; Built-in LED flashlight with SOS mode, perfect for an outdoor emergency.
What You Get: 25000mAh Portable Solar Charger, a micro USB cable, User Manual.
Highlights
- 6.1 x 3.35 x 1.37 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 25000mAh
- 28 watts
- Micro USB
- 1.3 pounds
- Foldable
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15. BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Solar Charger
Upgraded Triple USB-A Ports: Each maximum output is 5V/2.4A and the total maximum current is 5V/4.8A. BigBlue 28w solar charger allows you to charge multiple devices at once. It comes with smart charge technology which can recognize your device smartly and then provide optimal charging speed vary with different devices. BigBlue ensures 100% safe charging with overcharging, overheating, and short circuit protection.
Portable Camping Solar Panel: BigBlue USB solar charger is a great option if you’re taking an extended camping trip or if you’re traveling somewhere with an unreliable power grid. With a compact size (11.6 × 6.3× 1.3in folded) and lightweight (20.5 oz) design, it is portable and light enough to fit into any camping backpack or hiking daypack. It is also a must-have for stashing in an emergency kit.
High Solar Conversion: Highly efficient SunPower solar panels convert up to 24% of solar power into free energy in enough sunlight, which is the most durable panels at present, standing up to elements and wear and tear better than conventional panels. This special PET polymer surface protects solar panels from occasional rain or wet fog and three ports are covered with rubber cover to protect them from dust or water damage.
Wide Compatibility: Attached is a USB cable for almost all 5V Android devices & some DSLRs, or Apple devices (Note: needs extra original cable for Apple devices). Our solar phone charger can’t store the electricity, please unfold all solar panels in outdoor direct sunlight, then connect your device to the USB output port. Note: our portable solar charger can’t charge the laptops and iPad Pro.
Package & Support: You will get a BigBlue 28W Solar Phone Charger, 50cm USB Cable, User Manual, and friendly Customer Service. Note: Any cloud or cover may influence the charging speed. Although our solar charger with automatic restart function, we still suggest you to reopen the solar panels and replug your device if the charging is too slow.
Highlights
- 11.1 x 6.3 x 1.34 inches
- Monocrystalline
- 25000mAh
- 28 watts
- Micro USB
- 1.34 pounds
- Foldable
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Portable Solar Panel Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Depending on their power output (watts), portable solar panels can charge small devices like mobile phones, tablets, or personal computers. Larger portable solar panels can power everything in an RV, camper van, or cabin.
A 100-watt with 8 hours of consistent sunlight will produce 1 kilowatt-hour per day. Although there are a lot of different scenarios, generally speaking, there are a lot of devices that could run with a 100-watt solar panel. These include laptops, fans, and lights.
A 100-watt solar panel would not be enough to power something with more power demand, including small appliances like a refrigerator which takes almost four times the power output (3.8Wh/day) of a 100-watt solar panel.
A 100-watt solar panel will produce 8.3 AMPs at 12 volts. To calculate AMPs on a solar panel, use AMPs = Watts/Volts. So in the case of a 100-watt solar panel, we plug in: amps = 100/12, which produces 8.3 Amps.
Given an average refrigerator requires 3.8 Wh/day, it would need around 3.3 solar panels to run. It would be best to have four 100-watt solar panels to run a fridge reliably.
A 100ah battery at 12 volts will take five hours to charge. To keep the batteries charged sufficiently, you will need a single 300w solar panel or three 100-watt solar panels.
Solar panels work when it is cloudy, but they will produce about 25 percent as much energy on a cloudy day as they would on a typical sunny day.
