Going backpacking is a wholesome recreational exercise guaranteed to soothe your adventurous side. However, if you are a lover of the outdoors or if you are planning your next outdoor experience, investing in a portable solar panel will unveil tremendous benefits. While there are a million options available for you, there is a need to consider many factors like the amount of wattage it offers and its portability in tandem with your planned activity.

In this article, we have highlighted the best portable solar panel for backpacking, and the key considerations to take note of before making a buying decision. Enjoy!

How to Choose Portable Solar Panels for Backpacking

If you considering getting the best portable folding solar panel, here are four pro tips to guide you.

Consider Portability

The best option for your backpacking trip is a small portable solar panel. There is no point in hauling a solar panel around if you are only going to end up with back pain. When making a buying decision, consider the ease of carrying it around in your backpack. If you are hoping to optimize your solar panel while on your next adventure, you can consider carrying two small yet competent solar panels that fit snugly into your gear rather than one large panel that takes up all the space.

Consider Your Adventure Type

If you are just going to hike for a day, you should probably settle for a simple portable solar panel with low to medium-level wattage. However, if you are planning a long backpacking adventure, a portable foldable solar panel of high wattage will meet your long-distance needs.

Durability Matters

You should get your money’s worth from your purchase. Whether you are going on a one-time experience or are passionate about the outdoors, a durable solar panel is non-negotiable. Check whether your portable solar panel for backpacking gear is water or dustproof and whether it can withstand the harsh weather conditions out there. You should also consider if it’s going to keep powering up your devices effectively after several outdoor journeys.

Pay Attention to Warranty

One of the telltale signs you have got a portable solar panel for backpacking is the availability of a company warranty to cover your purchase. Invest in a well-tested product with an attractive warranty option; this assures you will be getting good returns on your purchase. Warranty timelines can range from six months to 24 months, so why not?

Best Portable Solar Panels for Backpacking

Here is a selection of 4 of the best Anker portable solar panels, there is sure to be a choice that will meet your needs.

Anker 625 Solar Panel

This solar panel makes it to the list of essential gear for backpacking. If you are looking for the ideal 100-watt solar panel that gets the job done, search no further. This solar panel is equipped to convert up to 23% of sunlight into solar energy, charging your solar generators even on cloudy days.

Additionally, this solar panel is scratch-proof with a high resistant rate to bad weather conditions. Most of all, Anker 625 Solar Panel is compatible with PowerHouse 521, 535, and 757. It also comes with an adjustable kickstand that guarantees your solar panels soak in enough sunlight. To top it all, you’re entitled to an 18 months guarantee on your purchase.

Anker 531 Solar Panel

This is another portable solar panel to consider for your backpacking needs. The 200-watt foldable waterproof solar panel is built for comfort. Additionally, it comes with an adjustable kickstand that can rotate the solar panel to either 40, 50, or 60 degrees for sunlight optimization.

Best of all, Anker 531 solar panel has superior portability that allows you to tote it around as you move. It is designed with Monocrystalline solar cells and a powerful sunlight-trapping surface provides a conversion efficiency rate of up to 23%. Currently, you can get this for $549 on its official website and are also entitled to an 18-month guarantee.

Anker 515 Solar Panel

If you are looking for a more affordable portable solar panel for sale, this ultra-thin flexible solar panel is your best bet. It is designed to offer great flexibility whilst still maintaining durability. Aside from that, Anker 515 Solar Panel can fold away for easy storage in your backpack when you are not charging, while the built-in storage compartment can hold cables or small mobile devices.

Another amazing feature it offers is the 3 USB-A ports that allow for triple charging simultaneously. That means you don’t have to connect it to power stations to charge your phones, tablets, or other mobile devices at up to a 12W charge in optimal sunlight conditions. Additionally, there is a stable solar charging option that allows the panel to automatically start charging when you move from a shady area to a more sunlight zone.

Conclusion

While there are tons of portable solar panels for backpacking out there, you should aim for an effective power solution like the Anker 531 Solar Panel or Anker 625 Solar panel. While making a choice, look out for durability, wattage, and ease of carrying it around in your backpack. You don’t want the horrific reality of waking up to a power outage and roaming around in the dark. Now you know all of this, you are ready for your next backpacking adventure!

FAQ about Portable Solar Panels for Backpacking

Do backpacking solar panels work?

Yes, backpacking solar panels are effective. This is because they adopt similar solar energy technology on a small scale. On how to use a portable solar panel, you can see their connections with powerhouses or providing charging via USB output ports to multiple devices simultaneously. While you're out camping, hiking, fishing, or backpacking, solar panels will ensure that your devices stay powered up and ready.

What size solar panel is for backpacking?

Generally, you should choose portable solar panels for backpacking, especially those foldable ones. But the ideal size you should go for is largely dependent on the wattage you need for your adventure. Ideally, a solar panel providing 100 watts with an unfolded dimension of about 50x20x1.5 in (1270 x 508 x38 mm) can charge most of your digital devices from smartphones to laptops.

What can I run with a 100-watt solar panel?

With a 100-watt solar panel, you can power most of your small devices including cell phones, laptops, fans, and other portable digital devices. However, if you are looking to use bigger applicants like a TV or heater, then this option may not work on such wattage.