Portable solar panels for RV are a great way to use clean energy! Whether you are boondocking, vacationing at the RV park, or taking a weekend trip - you need the right panels to fuel your fun!
Here are our picks for the 7 best portable solar panels for RV use.
Best Sellers - Most Popular Portable Solar Panels for RV Use
Brands purchased the most by our readers.
How to Choose the Best Portable Solar Panels for RV Use | 3 Things to Consider
1. Weight
Consider the weight of the panels you purchase and how much you can comfortably lift and carry around.
You don't have to install portable solar panels for RVs (no need to climb on the roof or drill holes!). However, you do have to load and unload them at each site.
Additionally, you might want to adjust their position to follow the sun or get them out of the shade. All that lifting might strain your back or become cumbersome. A lightweight option might make life easier and be best in the long run.
Most portable solar panels for RV use weigh anywhere from 4lbs - 15lbs.
2. Storage
Similarly, you will have to store your panels when you aren't using them. Foldable panels are best for people with limited space.
3. Watts
Finally, decide how many watts you need to power your devices and appliances. Will you use these panels to power your entire RV or just your small devices such as your laptop, tablet, or phone?
Portable panels for RV use typically range anywhere from 100W to 400W.
If powering an entire RV, it is best to go for panels with more than 100 watts. However, keep in mind that panels with more watts are heavier.
Our readers have also had success with portable power stations to power an entire RV. Additionally, a 100W panel with USB plugs can charge your phone or tablet directly without any additional clips or accessories.
Our Picks for the Best Portable Solar Panels for RV Use
1. Jackery 100W Portable Solar Panel
Jackery is a great portable solar panel; our readers love it! Jackery is one of the biggest players in the portable power industry.
This panel has tons of positive reviews and only weighs 5.5lbs! Plus, it folds down for easy storage.
Our readers recommend using it with the Jackery 1000 Portable Power Station so you can power all of your devices at once. It will power your full-size refrigerator, TV, laptop, mini cooler, and more!
2. Rockpals 100W Portable Solar Panel
Rockpals is another top-seller and has the most diverse connectors.
You can plug this panel into practically anything and get incredible results!
It is compatible with nearly every portable power station and has an option to charge your devices directly. At only 5.1lbs, carrying it is a breeze and it folds down for easy storage.
3. EcoFlow 160W Portable Solar Panel
This is the Cadillac of portable solar panels! It has the most power and is the most durable.
The biggest complaint we hear from our readers is that most portable solar panels are flimsy and fall down when the wind blows. Not this solar panel!
The EcoFlow 160W foldable solar panel is designed to stand up to strong winds. It is completely waterproof and will generate the most power!
In order to get the best outcome, our readers recommend buying a combo pack with a EcoFlow portable power station. The below can power a full-size fridge, coffee maker, air conditioner, and more!
4. TopSolar 100W Portable Solar Panel
TopSolar is the best budget-friendly panel on our list. However, that doesn't mean it is poor quality!
The TopSolar 100W panel has two USB ports so you can charge your tablet and phone directly! It also includes accessories such as alligator clips, extension cables, connectors, and plugs.
Lastly, it folds down to fit in a backpack and generates great power during the day!
5. Renogy 100W Portable Solar Panel Kit
This is the only option on our list that includes an ENTIRE KIT! You can plug and play instantly with the Renogy 100W solar panel kit!
The kit includes a 100W solar suitcase, a 20A waterproof charge controller, and alligator clips. It is compatible with multiple kinds of 12V batteries so you can easily add it to your existing system.
Our readers love this product for camping and have peace of mind knowing it is compatible with almost every battery and system.
6. Bluetti 120W Portable Solar Panel
The Bluetti 120W solar panel offers extra power and is perfect for RV life! It has the highest efficiency rating and four adjustable kickstands so you can tilt it towards the sun.
It is ~9lbs and folds down easily with a handy carrying case. All of the connectors and cables are included so you can get started right away!
Bluetti is a great brand with sleek and reliable products! Check out the reviews!
7. Goal Zero 100W Portable Solar Panel
Finally, Goal Zero is a leader in clean energy that creates great products.
Thier 100W portable solar panel folds down to a convenient briefcase and has built in kickstands for extra stability. For best results, they recommend using this panel with a Goal Zero portable power station.
We like Goal Zero because the company goes above and beyond with their sustainability practices. They use 100% renewable energy at their corporate headquarters and warehouse, and they offset 100% of carbon emissions from their shipping. Incredible!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between monocrystalline vs. polycrystalline panels?
Monocrystalline panels are more efficient than polycrystalline.
2. Are portable solar panels worth it?
Yes, the freedom to place them wherever you want in order to follow the sun is worth it. Additionally, you don't have to install them which saves time and money. Lastly, they are often lightweight and easy to store.
3. Do solar panels produce power when the sun isn't shining?
Yes, solar panels still produce power on cloudy days. Just not as much as sunny days. It is best to have solar panels in direct sunlight for optimal results.
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