9 Best Portable Foldable Solar Panels 2022

Are you an outdoor enthusiast and looking for the best portable foldable solar panels? If you are, you’ve come to the right page as I have the most detailed reviews and buyer guide on portable foldable solar panels available in the market.

Portable foldable solar panels are an excellent resource, especially for travelers, hikers, mountaineers, and mobile homeowners. They are also a must-have for people who love outdoor activities such as camping, as they want to keep their devices charged throughout the journey.

The devices include a design that allows them to charge via sunlight during mobile activities. Other than being foldable for portability, some come with hangers and hooks. They come with different power outputs so you can charge different devices.

Portable foldable solar panels also feature sturdy construction that makes them weather-resistant, plus shockproof features for durability. I have hand-picked and reviewed the best portable folder solar panels below:

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What is a folding solar array?

Folding solar array refers to the combination of more than one solar panel to create a single device. 

Advantages of foldable solar panels

Foldable solar panels might be reliant on the sun (which is sometimes absent) relatively costly, and you may have less power output. But the truth is, they have more benefits compared to the downsides. Check out these advantages of foldable solar panels:

• Portability
• Convenience
• A reliable source of energy
• Cost-friendly
• Eco-friendly
• User-friendly
• Quiet
• Easy installation

How to pick the best Portable Foldable Solar Panels

Solar panels are both a convenient and cost-friendly source of power/electricity, especially when you are in recreational and outdoor activities. The popularity of portable foldable solar panels means a difference in styles, designs, and types to suit different user needs.

Check out our buyer guide on how to pick the best portable foldable solar panel!

• Size & Weight – It goes without saying, you need a portable solar panel for mountaineering, hiking, nature walks, backpacking, and more. The last thing you want is a heavyweight on your back or shoulders. However, you must weigh your power needs against the weight. Because the smaller a solar panel is, the less the power.
• Durability – Outdoor activities lead you to rocky, swampy, water bodies, and dry regions depending on what turns you on. Haha! Ensure the solar panel is made from robust materials that make it weather-proof and resistant to many outdoor encounters.
• Watt & Capacity – Watt and capacity are the determining factors of the number of devices a portable foldable solar panel can power. It also determines for how long it can go before running out of power. From 5W to 60W, 100W, 200W, and 300W, the wattage will depend on the number of devices you wish to charge, with 100W being more suitable.
• Voltage Rate – Before you choose a solar panel, make sure you check the voltage of the batteries of your devices. Typically, voltage ranges between 5V and 18V based on the model. If you pick the wrong choice, you will damage your device’s batteries.

5V is suitable for smartphones, flashlights, and USB fans, while 12V powers devices like lamps and LED lights. 18V suits devices such as laptops, tablets, and the like.

• Ports – Do you need this portable foldable solar panel to charge your smartphone, tablet, laptop, lamps, or flashlight? Remember to check the compatibility of its ports to your devices.

9 Best portable foldable solar panels

1. Renogy Kit-Starter 100D
2. Zamp Solar 120P
3. ECO-WORTHY DC-FP40-1
4. Renogy RNG-F-2X50D
5. HQST 100 watts 12 volts polycrystalline
6. Goal Zero Nomad 20
7. Go Power! GP-PSK-120
8. ACOPOWER 100 watt 100WPV
9. ACOPOWER 12V 105W 

Reviews of the best portable foldable solar panels 2022

Because there is a pool of these products on the market, it might get confusing and challenging to know which the best is. Having that in mind, we know you have a busy schedule that may not give you enough time to compare ten or more products and simplify it for you.

Check this out!

Renogy Kit-Starter 100D

Wattage: 100W

Voltage: 12V

Size: 47.01”x1.5”x20.87”

Renogy understands that not all people are conversant with portable solar panels. To cater to the needs of their customers that are new to solar, they manufactured the Starter Kit that offers numerous benefits, including quietness.

The Starter Kit features essential tools for a new system, including a 30A PWM wanderer charge controller, tray cable (8ft 110AWG), plus a set of Z-brackets. Other notable features include a negative grounding controller that ensures extensive off-grid applications and safety.

Renogy Kit-Starter works well with RVs, boats, cabins, trailers, and sheds. It is made from a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame for durability.

Pros:

• Charge controller
• Ideal output
• Negative ground controller
• Robust features
• Corrosion-resistant aluminum frame

Cons:

• Tailor-made for beginners

Check on Amazon!

Zamp Solar 120P

Wattage: 45W – 230W

Voltage: 

Size: 42”x34”x25”

Since its founding in 2010, Zamp has been determined to manufacture high-quality, cutting-edge off-grid solar panels. Their portable solar panel kits stand out as the most flexible and effective solar option that suits everyone’s needs.

Zamp Solar 120P comes packed with a 12V battery, panel, charger controller, connectors, and wires. Everything you need to charge. The product comes packed in a rugged nylon case with thick padding for protection when not in use.

It features a five-stage, weather-resistant digital charge controller that is integrated into the panel to secure your battery. For convenient monitoring, the controller is mounted on an EZ-view bracket. It also includes smooth-slide support legs and weighs 32 lbs.

Pros:

• Foldable design
• Fully-packed for charging
• Rugged nylon case
• Weather-resistant
• Integrated charge controller

Cons:

• System not waterproof

Check on Amazon!

ECO-WORTHY DC-FP40-1

Wattage: 40W

Voltage: 12V

Size: 

If you are looking for intuitive design, excellence, and high-performance in a portable foldable solar panel, ECO-WORTHY DC-FP40-1 is the way to go! This solar panel is highly-reliable when it comes to any outdoor activities, from hiking to climbing and picnics.

The solar panel is lightweight for portability and also saves on space, and includes an adjustable foldable bracket that allows for high conversion value. ECO-WORTHY DC-FP40-1 features a folding bag with Carabiner to allow for easy suspension and installation.

Like other solar panels in the list, it comes with a feature that protects your devices from overcharging or over-discharging.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable
• Highly-compatible
• Fully-laminated panels
• Protection function for over-discharge and overcharge
• Durable construction

Cons:

• Short cable

Check on Amazon!

Renogy RNG-F-2X50D

Wattage: 100W

Voltage: 12V

Size: 16.24”x11.95”x3.94”

Are you searching for an ideal off-grid portable foldable solar panel? I might have a solution for you – the German-made Renogy 100W 12V! This lightweight solar suitcase is an entire system in one and includes 2 50W (hence the model name 2x50D) Monocrystalline panels.

This portable foldable solar panel also comes with a 15” set of wires (with MC4 connectors), plus a protecting casing for safe portability. The adjustable aluminum stand and latches, plus a heavy-duty handle make it stronger and firmer.

To make it compatible with your RV, trailer, motorhome, boat, and more, Renogy includes a negative-ground charge controller, plus low-voltage system to avoid the risk of electric shock.

Pros:

• Suitcase for convenient storage
• Reliable performance
• Corrosion-resistant aluminum
• Ideal output
• Lightweight
• High-compatibility

Cons:

• No battery backup

Check on Amazon!

HQST 100 Watt 12 Volt Polycrystalline

Wattage: 100W max.

Voltage: 18V max.

Size: 35.6”x25.9”x1.18”

Are you looking for a portable foldable solar panel that is built to withstand strong winds and heavy snow? HQST got you covered! The HQST 100W 12V polycrystalline solar panel’s back features an IP65 waterproof junction box that supports easy plug and play.

The anti-reflective panel is made from low-iron tempered glass with high transparency, plus improved rigidity and impact resistance. The back of the panel includes pre-drilled holes to ensure easy installation by fast mounting on motorhomes, boats, RVs, and caravans.

This portable foldable solar panel features progressive encapsulation material with multi-layered sheet laminations to boost cell performance.

Pros:

• Easy installation
• Versatile
• Waterproof
• Impact resistance
• Reliable performance

Cons:

• No bare wire MC4 connectors

Check on Amazon!

Goal Zero Nomad 20

Wattage: 20W

Voltage: 12V

Size: 13”x1”x8.5”

An outstanding portable solar panel kit, the Goal Zero Nomad 20 comes with an in-built junction box. Apparently, Goal Zero names Nomad 20 the largest foldable panel that collects the most power from sunlight.

It comes with an in-built USB port and a portable power pack that allows you to charge your 12V devices all the time. One great thing about this solar panel is that it comes with a smart charging chip that allows you to charge anything fast.

The Nomad Zero includes patented chaining tech that joins the panels for speedy charging with its highly-efficient Monocrystalline solar pumps. The optimal operating temp for Nomad Zero is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Pros:

• Patented chaining tech
• Easy to install
• Lightweight
• Smart charging chip
• Foldable and portable

Cons:

• No storage capacity

Check on Amazon!

Go Power! GP-PSK-120

Wattage: 130W

Voltage: 19.7V

Size: 32.48”x2.76”x19.88”

A product from Go Power, the GP-PSK-120 is a convenient and versatile option for people who require portable solar panels or roof-top supplement. This portable foldable solar panel comes with a heavy nylon carrying and storage case, plus in-built 10A solar controller.

The GP-PSK-120 battery charging connectors (Anderson-style) facilitate quick interchanging of the charging accessories so they can fit your specific needs. As such, the solar panel is an ideal choice for RVs, boats, and cars.

To ensure it taps most sunlight to power it fully, it features adjustable folding legs that also allow for compact storage. Go Power includes multiple charging connectivity options to suit your devices.

Pros:

• Carrying case
• Multiple charging options
• In-built 10A solar controller
• Portable and foldable
• Adjustable legs

Cons:

• Short cable

Check on Amazon!

ACOPOWER 100 watt 100WPV

Wattage: 100W

Voltage: 17.8V

Size: 25.6”x19.9”x1.2”

If you are looking for a portable foldable solar panel that can work with two different batteries simultaneously, ACOPOWER got you covered. This solar panel produces 100W and protects your devices from overcharging, overcharging, short-circuit, over-discharging, and overload.

It comes with a single crystal panel that offers high-efficient, outstanding performance in low light environments. For outdoor use, ACOPOWER 100W features a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame and is also easy to install.

Other features include adjustable installation angle, alligator clip, pre-installed controller, and 12V pre-wired battery charging. This solar panel is suitable for motorhomes, boats, camping, hiking, and more!

Pros:

• Portable and foldable
• Easy installation
• Corrosion-resistant
• Adjustability
• Corner protectors

Cons:

• Not really stealthy
• Limited charging capabilities

Check on Amazon!

ACOPOWER 12V 105W 

Wattage: 105W

Voltage: 12V

Size: 50.39”x22.05”x0.16”

Are you a new client to the solar panels arena? ACOPOWER has something that suits you perfectly. Their 105W Monocrystalline features two high-efficient solar panels that make you feel at home when far from home.

This portable foldable solar panel comes with bungee loops for the charger that you can fasten to your backpack. The best thing with this product is that it includes a 1-year warranty, and can be used in your RV and boat systems.

Pros:

• 2 high-efficiency solar panels
• Bungee loops
• Beginner-friendly
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• Limited charging capabilities
• Questionable durability

Check on Amazon!

Best foldable solar panels for camping

The best foldable solar panels for camping include ACOPOWER as it comes with the ability to work with two different batteries simultaneously. This solar panel produces 100W and keeps your device safe from overcharging, short-circuiting, over-discharging, and overload.

Camping activities can sometimes take you to environments with low sunlight which may affect their performance. ACPOWER crystal panel remains highly-efficient and offers exceptional performance in low light environments. This portable foldable solar panel includes a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame which makes it durable, plus a straightforward installation process.

Other features include an adjustable installation angle so you can reposition it to sunlight direction, alligator clip to hold snugly, pre-installed controller, and 12V pre-wired battery charging.

Foldable solar panels for caravans and motorhomes

Are you looking for a portable foldable solar panel for your caravan or motorhome? Meet HQST 100W 12V polycrystalline, a solar panel that is built to survive any weather, be it strong winds or heavy snow! Sounds like what you wanted, right? I knew it!

So, how does this foldable solar panel fit the purpose?

The back of the HQST 100W 12V polycrystalline solar panel comes with an IP65 waterproof junction box that makes sure no water gets in during heavy rains. Sometimes you just want to drive your caravan or motorhome (like an RV) to the woods for silence and peace, huh?

The HQST 100W 12V polycrystalline solar panel features anti-reflective panels made from low-iron tempered glass with high transparency to ensure you do not attract attention. Since the roads might be rocky, swampy, or muddy, the solar panel construction feature improved rigidity and impact resistance.

The solar panel’s back also features pre-drilled holes so you mount and install it on your motorhome or caravan easily. Additional features include advanced encapsulation material with multi-layered sheet laminations that help boost cell performance.

Foldable solar panel kit

A foldable panel kit includes solar panels, a charge controller, mountain hardware, and cables. If you wish extra power storage, you will have to buy batteries separately.

Folding a solar panel mount – how to mount

The optimal orientation and tilt angles for folding a solar panel mount depend on the position of the sun, plus the weather. For the solar panel to offer top performance on a low horizon, the best angle to mount it should be 60 degrees.

If it’s spring, make it 45 degrees, and 20 degrees during summer.

Foldable solar panel 200w

Foldable solar panel 200w refers to kits that come with two 100w panels that are sold together to produce 200w in total. A good example for this is the Renogy 200W off-grid portable foldable solar panel. This power can charge your 45W laptop for 22hrs, but 1hr for a coffee maker.

Foldable solar panel 100w/foldable 100w solar panel

Foldable solar panel 100w or foldable 100w solar panel refers to 100w-rated photovoltaic module solar. As such, it has a power output (DC) of up to 100W under optimal conditions.

Foldable solar panel charger

Typically, a foldable solar panel charger is a plug-and-play power solution that you can place under the sun and connect your devices for charging. They feature durable construction materials and high-quality solar cells for enhanced durability and extended lifespan.

A good example of this is the ACOPOWER 100 watt 100WPV that comes with protection features that prevent overcharging and more.

How does a portable solar panel work?

Portable solar panels comprise photovoltaic cells that collect and convert sunlight to power. The cells (infused with phosphorus & boron) are made from two layers of silicone and stitched together in thin and elastic material. The cells also feature an electric field that allows them to generate power.

When sunlight strikes the solar panel, light particles emit an electric field as it displaces the electrons from the atom. The produced power is transmitted to the inverter which changes DC power to AC power. The power is then stored or consumed by the connected devices.

Some portable solar panels also include a kickstand that you can use to reposition it as the sun moves, as well as a carrying case.

How do you secure a portable solar panel?

Portable solar panels also mean that they are delicate, not to mention their high price tag. What makes them even more fragile is if they are foldable. To secure a portable solar panel, ensure that it does not drop or fall into large amounts of water even if it is waterproof.

When you are carrying it, make sure that it is snugly but safely secured on your backpack.

FAQs

Are folding solar panels any good?

The short answer to this is yes! While their efficiency isn’t as the one for the roof-and ground-mounted solar panels, their portability makes them equally important for outdoor activities. They are also easy to move to where sunlight is, easy to operate, and quieter than gas generators.

Are folding solar panels waterproof?

It depends on the manufacturing company or the brand that makes folding solar panels. You will find them in the market but they may be highly-priced compared to others. 

Is there a folding solar panel without a regulator?

Yeah, there are folding solar panels in the market that come without a regulator.