Best Portable Solar Panels for Hiking in 2020 + Buyer Guide

Best Portable Solar Panel for Hiking in 2020

In the recent past, the thought of a portable solar panel looked more of an anecdote than a reality. In fact, the mention of such a word seemed goofy and would leave the crowd with aching ribs(pun intended). Solar panels were delicate and unaffordable that they never crossed the thought of many. 

Those who enjoy hiking, however, fully understand the importance of a gadget that can let you charge your gadgets when you are totally off-grid. I became an avid hiker a few years ago and I have come to appreciate the hobby and how experiences can be enhanced by a reliable power source from portable solar panels when hiking or camping. 

I have spent 30+ hours researching the very best portable solar panels that you can pick for hiking and if you are in a hurry, Goal Zero Boulder 100 is the overall best portable solar panel for hiking in 2020 because it is super lightweight making it easy to be carried in any type of hike. In addition, it has highly efficient Monocrystalline solar cells and you can rely on it for any type of hiking. 

But with the grand evolution in electronics, solar tech has brought us myriad new opportunities that many people are starting to recognize they can integrate into their lifestyle. Portable solar panels are an incredible resource for travelers to charge their smartphones, hiking watches, GPS gadgets, and more.

Buying a Solar Charger for Hiking- What Is Important?

• Type

Solar chargers you can pick for hiking are available in three types:

• Panels with integrated battery pack – This is where the battery pack and solar panel come together (as one piece), which makes attaching them to a backpack easy. Unfortunately, the solar panels are undetectable when you do not necessarily need them, especially on short trips.
• Panels with detachable battery pack – In this case, the solar panels come with a removable battery pack so you can leave what you do not need behind and make it more lightweight.
• Panels only – This charger is ideal for people with a power bank, as they just connect the power bank with the solar panels and charge it with sunlight energy. Before purchasing this type, ensure it is compatible with your power bank.

• Weight & Size

While smaller solar panels are stress-free to pack and carry, larger ones are heavy but charge fast. 

• Battery Pack

Battery packs store the solar energy that you use to charge your device. They differ in power output and storage capacity (mAh), and the higher it is, the more the power. But remember larger storage means heavyweight.

• Attachment Options

Typically, solar panels come with attachment points that allow you to connect them firmly on the backpack.

• Solar Panel Types

Solar panels come in two types, including semi-flexible (foldable) and rigid. Semi-flexible features a large surface area despite their small size, and you can unfold them easily to position them towards the sunlight.

• Solar Panel Output

The higher the solar panel’s output, the more the sunlight converts to electricity per hour.

How do Portable Solar Panels for Hiking Work?

Typically, solar chargers include solar panels and a battery pack. These solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity which, in turn, charges the battery backpack. Once full, you can charge all your gadgets for long periods without the fear of draining energy soon.

That is what makes portable solar panels ideal for hikes, trekking, mountaineering, backpacking, and even camping.

12 Best Portable Solar Panels for Hiking in 2020

1. Goal Zero Boulder 100
2. Goal Zero Nomad 20 Solar Panel
3. Nekteck 21W Solar Charger Panel
4. Anker PowerPort 21W
5. BioLite Solar Panel 10+
6. Revel Gear Day Tripper
7. PowerTraveller Falcon 21
8. RAVPower 24W Solar Charger
9. Wildtek Waterproof Solar Panel Charger
10. X DRAGON 40W Solar Charger
11. Renogy 21W Solar Panel Foldable Charger
12. Bigblue 3 28W Solar Charger

Review of the Best Portable Solar Panels for Hiking

In this section, we shall review our 12 best portable solar panels for hiking, discussing their description, features, as well as pros and cons. We noted that some of them are even waterproof among other features.

At the end of this review, you will understand which portable solar panel for hiking suits your needs. Let’s see what each has to offer!

Goal Zero Boulder 100

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 26.75”x40”x1.75”

Weight: 25.9 lbs.

Goal Zero Boulder 100 is a highly efficient portable solar panel that produces 100 watts, that is set up for portability. The Boulder 100 Briefcase features highly efficient Monocrystalline solar cells that come in a packable form. It has a rigid aluminum frame that makes it both lightweight and durable, which is ideal for off-grid set-ups, camping, hiking.

The Boulder 100 Briefcase solar panel does not require controllers or additional cables. You just need to plug it directly into Goal Zero Yeti Portable Power Stations for it to collect and store power. It is also chainable with other compatible solar panels to cut on solar recharge times.

It comes with an adjustable kickstand for ultimate portability that allows you to set it wherever you want, and comprises a handy carrying case.

Features:

• Compatible with Goal Zero Yeti Portable Power Stations
• Adjustable kickstand
• 100 watts Monocrystalline cells
• Rubber impact protection on the corners
• One year warranty

Pros:

• Durable construction
• Lightweight
• Rubber pads to absorb shock
• Ideal for many purposes

Cons:

• No protective case for glass
• Fixed legs length

Check on Amazon.

Goal Zero Nomad 20 Solar Panel

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Port: 13”x1”x8.5”

Weight: 2.5 lbs.

Goal Zero Nomad 20 is the company’s largest foldable panel to make sure that you accumulate the most power from the sun. Nomad 20 comes with an in-built USB port or connects with a Goal Zero portable power pack to charge your devices any time of the day.

The best thing with the Goal Zero system is both portable and foldable to make sure you use it wherever you want. It also comes with the innovative plug-and-play system and in-built junction box with a smart-charging chip for powering handheld USB and 12v device from the sun.

Goal Zero Nomad 20 includes patented chaining tech that combines its panels for enhanced charging time. There are also highly-efficient Monocrystalline solar pumps out more power/square inch.

Features:

• Monocrystalline solar panels
• Compatible with all Goal Zero Packs
• Comes with USB ports for multiple device charging
• Scalable power
• Innovative plug-and-play system
• Patented chaining tech

Pros:

• Durable
• Chaining tech for increased charging
• Foldable and portable
• Compatibility with Goal Zero power pack

Cons:

• /

Check on Amazon!

Nekteck 21W Solar Charger Panel

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimension: 6.3”x1.06”x11.1” 

Weight: 1.12 lbs.

Nekteck 21W solar panel charger uses three highly-efficient solar panels is your new friend when far from home. It does not store power, which means you will need a power bank for power storage to connect it directly to charge. Its canvas is built to endure rugged durability for outdoor use.

The device is foldable and comes with bungee loops to allow you to attach it to your backpack. When exposed to sunlight, each of the 21W Sunpower solar panels exposes nearly 800-1000mA to sunlight for charging. If you have two devices, the Nekteck 21W solar charger panel comes with dual USB charging ports to let you charge them simultaneously.

It comes with SmartIC tech (latest charging solution) that automatically detects the plugged device to maximize (up to 2.0 amp/port or 3 amps overall) the charging speed.

Features:

• Dual USB ports
• SmartIC technology
• High-quality construction
• Broad compatibility
• Monocrystalline panels cell
• SunPower Maxeon tech 

Pros:

• Works with all devices
• User manual
• High-efficiency solar panels
• Portable and foldable

Cons:

• Requires a power bank

Check on Amazon!

Anker PowerPort 21W

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 26.4”x11.1”x0.2” (11.1”x6.3”x1.1” – folded)

Weight: 14.7oz

A product from America’s leading USB charging brand, Anker PowerPort 21W offers off-the-grid power for your outdoor activities. You just need to spread out the solar panels or connect it to your backpack and start recharging your devices.

It comes with PowerIQ tech that detects and duplicates your gadget’s original charging protocol for optimal charging speeds. Anker PowerPort also has a compact design and robust stainless-steel eye-holes on the corners that make connecting it to the tent or backpack easy.

It features industrial-strength PET plastic faced solar panels stitched into the durable polyester canvas to ensure it withstands outdoor voyages. It’s also lightweight (14.7 ounces) and comes with advanced tech to protect your devices in case of sunlight interruptions.

Anker PowerPort 21W is compatible with a range of devices, including Android, iOS, and more!

Features:

• Robust PET plastic
• PowerIQ tech
• 18-month warranty
• Stainless steel eye-holes
• High portability

Pros:

• Fast charging tech
• Advanced device protection tech
• Compact size
• Wide compatibility
• Reputable brand

Cons:

• Not foldable

Check on Amazon!

BioLite Solar Panel 10+

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 11.73”x10”x1.73”

Weight: 0.8 kgs

BioLite solar panel 10+ is a rigid solar panel designed for backcountry use. It comes with a high-efficiency Monocrystalline solar panel with 10W USB output to charge cameras, phones, and more. It features ultra-slim weather-resistant design with double panels to increase efficiency via heat dissipation. 

This portable solar panel features an in-built sundial (Optimal Sun System) that enables you to collect sunlight and power your battery when hiking. There is also a 360-degree kickstand that simplifies positioning the solar panel on bumpy ground.

To ensure you have power when the sun goes down, it comes with a 300mAh in-built rechargeable battery. BioLite solar panel 10+ includes a battery and charge strength indicator and status button to show you how much you have.

Features:

• Battery status button
• High-efficiency monocrystalline solar panel
• Optimal sun system
• Corner latches
• Micro USB charge in
• Battery & charge strength indicator

Pros:

• Kickstand
• Sundial
• In-built 300aMh rechargeable battery
• Ultra-slim weather-resistant design
• Lightweight
• Durable 

Cons:

• /

Check on Amazon!

Revel Gear Day Tripper

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 5.5”x3.0”x0.7”

Weight: 7.1 oz.

Revel Gear Day Tripper is a water-resistant, shockproof, and dustproof portable solar panel charger for hiking that’s rugged with sealed electronics housing and connection ports. With 8000mAh power capacity, it is suitable for charging your gadgets, including phones and GPS devices.

It comes with two USB ports (5V1A) that offer dual charging capabilities and has an ultra-bright 20 LED flood-light that illuminates a large wide range space. It offers three light settings for conserving power, including ultra-bright, bright, and ultra-bright emergency strobe.

Revel Gear Day Tripper comes with 4 LED capacity indicators to display remaining power balance, and an in-built backlight LED torch that offers a long-lasting, low-light alternative.

Features:

• In-built backlight
• 8000mAh battery
• 1000 lumen LED grid
• Solar Boost™ Tech
• 4 LED capacity display

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Lighting alternatives
• Compatible with multiple gadgets
• 2 charging USB ports

Cons:

• Not foldable

 

PowerTraveller Falcon 21

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 7.4”x2.78”x13.39”

Weight: 2.33 lbs.

PowerTraveller Falcon 21 is a portable solar charger that is built with rugged materials to make it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. The solar can withstand light rain and minor drops and comes in a foldable design to save on space.

This lightweight portable solar panel is highly versatile and charges most 5V & 20V devices via the 5V/3A USB port or 20V DC output. The Falcon 21 is built with high-efficiency Monocrystalline cells which make them highly-performing and reliable.

The four corners on its charger consist of handy metal eyelets for ease of attachment to your backpack trees, or bike panniers for easy charging. The Falcon 21 solar charger is IPX4 which means it can endure water splashing against the enclosure from all directions without causing harm.

Falcon 21 is compatible with laptops under 40 watts and all tablet brands and can charge three devices simultaneously.

Features:

• Rugged materials
• Highly versatile
• Innovative design
• IPX4 rated
• Attachment points

Pros:

• Super-efficient
• Foldable and portable
• Withstands light rain
• Compatible with major devices
• Monocrystalline solar cells
• Lightweight

Cons:

• No kickstand

Check on Amazon!

RAVPower 24W Solar Charger

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 10.83”x6.89”x1.57”

Weight: 1.12 lbs.

The RAVPower 24W is a foldable solar charger that utilizes four Monocrystalline solar panels that comes with a lightweight mass. When you fold it, it measures 11”x5.9” which makes it smaller compared to many solar chargers emitting less power.

It is built from waterproof and durable canvas for increased stability, and comes with four standard hooks for multiple hanging and carrying options. While it does not include an in-built battery, you get three USB ports equipped with iSmart charging tech for voltage adjustment.

The RAVPower 24W solar charger comes with SmartIC tech to help identify all connected devices for proper input and output current distribution.

Features:

• SmartIC and iSmart charging tech
• High energy conversion
• Foldable and portable

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Weatherproof
• Compact size
• Flexible

Cons:

• Many restrictions

Check on Amazon!

Wildtek Waterproof Solar Panel Charger

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 12.4”x6.6”x2.2”

Weight: 1.8 lbs.

Wildtek waterproof solar panel charger is both waterproof and dustproof and comes with Wildtek water-resistant Source Solar Charger and USB ports to ensure you have all-seasons fun. Its source panels feature cutting-edge high efficient solar panels from Sunpower for efficient charging.

It comes with proprietary SmartCharge charging tech that identifies your USB-powered device for optimum charging. The system is compatible with a range of devices, including iOS and more. Wildtek is both portable and lightweight to ensure efficiency when packing and comes with carabiner’s to strap the panel to your backpack.

This portable solar panel for hiking comes with an in-built stand for optimal sun exposure and expediency.

Features:

• Completely dustproof and waterproof
• Ultra-high efficiency
• SmartCharge tech
• In-built stand
• 2-year warranty
• Foldable

Pros:

• Fit for all seasons
• Connection to your backpack
• Ultra-lightweight
• Efficient charging

Cons:

• /

Check on Amazon!

X DRAGON 40W Solar Charger

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 10.43”x6.3”x2.76”

Weight: 3.1 lbs.

X Dragon 40W is a solar charger that comes with a high-efficiency power conversion rate with a transformation efficiency of up to 23.5%. It utilizes eight Monocrystalline cells that give you substantially more charging capability for prolonged hikes.

X Dragon’s compact size design makes it portable and comes with a free hook to allow you to hang it on your backpack when outdoors. It comes with SolarIQ tech that auto-adjusts the voltage and current for optimal charging (up to 2.8A in USB output).

This portable solar panel for hiking comes with surge and short circuit protection to keep your devices safe, and you as well. Its 5V USB ports are widely compatible with a range of devices, plus an 18V DC port for charging DC-powered devices like 12V car battery and 18V2A laptops.

Features:

• Rugged quality
• Exclusive SolarIQ tech
• Excellent design
• 10 laptop connectors
• 18-months warranty

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Safety protection
• Dual port output
• Ultra-high efficiency
• Wide compatibility

Cons:

• /

Check on Amazon!

Renogy 21W Solar Panel Foldable Charger

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 6”x12”x1”

Weight: 1.01 lbs.

When it comes to the off-grid solar arena, Renogy is a popular name with its variety of products, including full-size solar panels. Renogy 21W solar panel charger is foldable to increase its portability and is still lightweight.

Like many solar panels in this review, it utilizes highly-efficient Monocrystalline solar cells that feature sturdy PET plastic cover. It comes with two USB ports that are optimized with Smart Charging tech for optimum charging and come ready for use.

It is compatible with a range of devices including iOS, iPhone, and more.

Features:

• Dual USB charger
• Monocrystalline solar cells
• Sturdy PET plastic cover
• Foldable & portable
• Smart Charging tech

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Widely compatible
• All-weather charger
• Flexible

Cons:

• /

 

BigBlue 3 28W Solar Charger

Cell Type: Monocrystalline

Dimensions: 11.23”x6.3”x0.71”

Weight: 1.31 lbs.

Are you looking for the perfect adventurer’s companion? BigBlue 3 28W that comes with 4 solar panels (7w each) is a fantastic choice. Its lightweight and size rank it among the most efficient solar chargers on the market. Its package consists of 4 hooks so you can hang it anywhere outdoors.

It comes with two 5V/2A USB charging ports, with a canvas and rubber housing encasing for extra protection. BigBlue 28W comes with an in-built ammeter and zipper pocket to keep your solar panel clean and safe. Its design matches people with a passion for hiking, trekking, and fishing, etc.

BigBlue 3 28W solar charger is water-resistant and comes with an internal chip that responds after disconnection with sun rays to protect your connected device. It is compatible with most USB rechargeable devices (5V), including iOS (Apple clients must use an original Apple cable).

Features:

• Waterproof and internal chip
• In-built ammeter & zipper pocket
• 4 hooks
• Exclusive SmartIC tech
• Special PET Polymer surface

Pros:

• High efficiency
• User-friendly
• Lightweight (1.31 lbs.)
• 2 USB ports

Cons:

• /

Buyers Guide to the Best Solar Panels for Camping and Hiking

When purchasing portable solar panels for outdoor purposes such as hiking and camping (among others), there are several factors you should consider. From the portability to price and efficiency, these are just some of the determinants that have a major impact, plus other extras.

So what MUST you consider?

• Portability

A solar panel’s portability depends on its weight and size. For a hiking solar panel, make sure they are thin, flexible, and lightweight. For car camping or base camps, go with the off-grid and larger camping as they are heavier and produce high power.

• Charge Time

Some solar panels for hiking come with integrated battery systems, where the charge time depends on the battery size and panel’s power rating. Ensure you check the solar panel’s watt rating compared to the battery voltage to know the power it emits.

• Charge Disruption Recovery

Solar panels obtain energy from direct sunlight, which means that even little exposure to shade lowers the power produced. As such, most panels include a charge disruption feature that safeguards your battery in case of interruptions.

Charge disruption recovery assesses how quickly the panels reconnect and charge again.

• Robustness & Water Resistance

Solar panels are useful as long as they are highly reliable! Since they are electrical gadgets, the connector should be protected from continued water exposure to avoid damage.

While they are enclosed in a ruggedized fabric or hardened housing to make them durable, avoid dropping them as they would be useless.

• Cost

Price is always the last factor I consider when reviewing products, as there are other things that matter more than cost. While solar panels come with a high price tag, there are affordable portable solar panels for personal use (10-30Watts) at $40-$100.

Wrap-Up

Hopefully, you now know what to look for in a portable solar panel for your next hiking adventure. Remember, the review above featured more than 20 portable solar panels and the featured are our best on the list.

Good luck!