If you are going camping, be sure to take an energy source with you. Although it may seem that rest without technology is the best idea, that’s not entirely true. A multi-day trip without flashlights, smartphones, laptops, and other tech tools will not be as quiet or interesting. Especially when many private campsites already offer free Wi-Fi to make your vacation even more exciting.
The best source of energy for camping is solar energy. After purchasing it, you will get an environmentally friendly and free energy source for all your needs. You can place it in the sunniest place of your camp and get constant power for all necessary devices. However, because of the risk of lack of active sun rays, you should also buy a generator.
A set of solar batteries and accumulators is the guarantee of your relaxing and active camping holiday. All components must be reliable, durable, lightweight, and waterproof. However, for longer trips, it is necessary to supplement the system with an inverter. With it, you can charge the generator from the car battery without damaging it.
Today we will talk about the solar system for camping.
Best solar panel for camping depending on the purpose
The market is flooded with solar solutions. To make a quicker decision, you should consider what your goals are in buying:
- If you are planning to install a solar panel system on your RV, you can choose from ready-made kits that will provide you with everything you need during your holiday. Solar panels and kits for RVs are powerful and easy to use for a variety of purposes.
- If you only need power for a laptop, smartphone, and flashlight, buying inexpensive portable solar panels for camping is enough.
- If you have solar panels or want to buy them separately, be sure to get a generator that has enough power for your needs.
We will continue to talk about all the categories and their best representatives.
Best portable solar panel for camping on wheels
Polycrystalline solar panels HQST 100W
This kit has a power of 100W, which is ideal for motorhomes. The solar system consists of 64 polycrystalline elements. They all have high efficiency and are protected by a layer of tempered glass. HQST is a lightweight model that is perfectly adapted to all weather conditions. Even if you go camping in winter and get caught in a snowstorm (5400 Pa) on the way, you can be sure of the reliability of this kit. Thanks to the IP65 waterproof junction box, the system is also protected from rain. All electrical connections and cables are located in one convenient place, making connection and setup quick and easy.
According to the specifications, the kit can generate about 500 Wh per day, assuming the consumption of 5 hours of active sunlight. The model differs significantly from similar analogs.
Advantages:
- Conveniently located holes for mounting on the rear panel;
- shockproof and reliable;
- 500 Wh output per day;
- presence of bypass diodes to minimize the power drop;
- tightness and weather resistance;
- Possibility of integration in different installation systems.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Renogy 100W 12V Premium Solar Kit
Despite the reference to the “premium class”, the installation is quite economical. The monocrystalline panel system comes complete with an MPPT charge controller and all necessary parts for rooftop installation. The Renogy 100 should not be used continuously for several months. If this is necessary, you will need to purchase a battery with a capacity of at least 50Ah.
Advantages:
- easy;
- easy to install;
- all parts are provided in the kit.
Disadvantages:
- you need to buy an extra battery.
Best solar panels for camping with low power
Nekteck Solar Portable Charger
The monocrystalline panels in this system provide high efficiency in the range of 21-24%. The work is based on SunPower Maxeon technology and IC. Thanks to the latter, charging devices is many times faster. Output power 0A. Thanks to a special coating, the device is reliably protected from dust and water.
Advantages:
- compact;
- waterproof and dustproof;
- cheap;
- highly efficient.
Disadvantages:
- fragile construction.
Hiluckey Solar Charger
The system has two USB ports and a 25000 mAh battery. The latter is made of lithium and polymers, which guarantees its reliability. You can charge 2 devices at the same time. At the same time, the charging speed will pleasantly surprise you. Compared to other models, it stands out with a high input current of 1 A. If your goal is to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the world for 9-10 days and you don’t need to support many devices, this is a solar-powered generator for camping. The compact device can charge your smartphone 8 times on average during your short vacation.
Advantages:
- 1A high-speed charging;
- high efficiency;
- lightweight and durable construction.
Disadvantages:
- it takes time to recharge.
Solar panel Goal Zero Nomad 7
Even though the device is not enough for large equipment, you can easily charge your laptop, tablet, and smartphone with this system. Even on a long trip, you will be under the reliable protection of a compact solar battery. The system provides fast charging for any small device with a rated power of 7W. You can place the device anywhere after adjusting the angle.
Advantages:
- light and compact;
- protected from snow and moisture;
- fast charging;
Disadvantages:
- only USB connectors are available.
Best solar power generator for camping
EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max + 160W Portable Solar Panel
If you need to constantly maintain the charge of 10 smartphones or connect a TV /laptop, this is a solar generator for camping. Lithium-ion battery, 576 Wh power, reliable protection against dust, rain, and wind, as well as a 5-year warranty – a guarantee of reliable operation of the installation in all conditions of your travels.
Advantages:
- solar panel charging time – 3-6 hours;
- provides fast charging;
- capacity 576 Wh;
- up to 10 devices can be connected at the same time;
- There is an additional battery that can be removed at any time.
Disadvantages:
- high price;
- has a very bright LED strip.
Portable Power Plant Goal Zero Yeti Lithium 6000X
The high price is fully justified by the features you get with this setup. Its power is enough for a whole camper, a tent for the whole family, or a vacation with friends.
the power of the inverter of 12 V and 120 W AC allows you to charge several devices simultaneously. This includes a refrigerator, TV, smartphones, and other necessary devices for outdoor activities. Due to the mobile application, you can always evaluate the characteristics of the system and even manage it.
This equipment will stay with you for years.
Advantages:
- there is a current inverter;
- inverter power 2000 W;
- has a handle and wheels for transportation;
- controlled using a mobile application;
- can be charged by solar panel or auto.
Disadvantages:
- high price;
- it takes time to charge.
Conclusion
We have analyzed the main categories of solar panels for camping and their best representatives. Each of them deserves attention and can help you make your vacation better. Use the data to provide yourself and your loved ones with everything you need, even in nature.
