Imagine this: you’re miles deep into a breathtaking wilderness, the sun is shining, and your phone is about to die. Frustrating, right? Staying connected and powered up on your backpacking trips shouldn’t be a constant worry. But with so many solar panels out there, figuring out which one is best for your adventure can feel like a puzzle.
Many backpackers face the same problem: they want the freedom of being off-grid without sacrificing essential power for their devices. You might be wondering about weight, charging speed, or how durable these panels really are. It’s easy to get lost in technical jargon and feel overwhelmed by all the choices.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re going to break down everything you need to know about choosing the perfect solar panel for your next backpacking trip. You’ll learn how to pick a panel that’s light enough to carry, powerful enough to charge your gear, and tough enough to handle the elements. By the end, you’ll feel confident in making a smart choice.
So, let’s dive in and discover how to harness the sun’s energy to keep your adventure powered up!
Our Top 5 Solar Panel For Backpacking Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Solar Panel For Backpacking Detailed Reviews
1. Hiluckey Solar Charger 25000mAh
Rating: 8.5/10
The Hiluckey Solar Charger 25000mAh is a powerful and versatile portable power bank designed for the adventurer in all of us. With its impressive 25000mAh capacity and four upgraded solar panels, it’s built to keep your devices charged no matter where your travels take you. This power bank is a reliable companion for anyone who loves the outdoors and needs a dependable way to stay connected.
What We Like:
- Incredible Solar Efficiency: The 2025 upgraded solar panels are up to 10 times more efficient than older models, meaning faster solar charging.
- Super-Fast Charging: It juices up your phone quickly, reaching 65% battery in just 30 minutes thanks to QC 3.0 technology.
- Charge Multiple Devices: You can charge three devices at once using the USB-C and two USB-A ports.
- High Capacity for Extended Use: The 25000mAh battery can charge your smartphone many times or your tablet several times, perfect for long trips.
- Quick Recharging via USB-C: When you use a PD fast charger, the power bank itself recharges in only 6 hours.
- Built-in Safety Features: It protects your devices from overcharging and short circuits.
- Bright and Durable Flashlight: The integrated flashlight is super bright and lasts a long time, making it great for nighttime use.
- Rugged Design: It’s built tough to handle outdoor conditions, making it ideal for hikers and travelers.
What Could Be Improved:
- PD Charger Not Included: To get the fastest recharging speeds, you’ll need to buy a separate PD fast charger.
- Solar Charging Speed: While the solar panels are upgraded, relying solely on solar power might still take a while to fully recharge the large battery capacity.
This Hiluckey solar charger is a robust power solution for outdoor enthusiasts. Its combination of high capacity, fast charging, and durable design makes it a standout choice for keeping your gadgets powered on the go.
2. [Upgraded] BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Solar Charger(5V/4.8A Max)
Rating: 8.7/10
Conquer your next adventure with the [Upgraded] BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Solar Charger. This portable, foldable solar panel is designed to keep your essential devices powered up, whether you’re camping, hiking, or simply enjoying the great outdoors. Its IP44 waterproof rating means it can handle a bit of weather, and it’s compatible with a wide range of smartphones and other small electronics.
What We Like:
- It has three USB ports, so you can charge multiple devices at once.
- The solar panels are made with high-quality materials for better durability and more efficient charging.
- It converts up to 25.4% of solar power into energy, which is quite good for a portable charger.
- It’s lightweight and folds up small, making it easy to carry in your backpack.
- The special surface protects the panels from light rain.
- It comes with carabiners to easily attach to your gear.
What Could Be Improved:
- If one device needs a lot of power, the other ports might not charge as well.
- The junction box is not waterproof, so you need to be careful with that part.
- It cannot charge laptops or power stations, and it doesn’t store electricity.
- You need direct sunlight for it to work best; clouds or being inside a car will reduce its power output.
- It doesn’t include a charging cable for Apple devices.
The BigBlue solar charger is a reliable companion for keeping your gadgets alive when you’re off the grid. It offers a practical way to harness the sun’s energy for your everyday electronics.
3. SOLUPUP Solar Panels 30W Portable Foldable Solar Charger with 5V USB-A and USB-C Fast Charging Compatible with iPhone
Rating: 9.3/10
Power up your adventures with the SOLUPUP 30W Portable Foldable Solar Charger! This handy gadget lets you harness the sun’s energy to keep your devices charged on the go. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just enjoying the outdoors, this solar charger is designed to be your reliable power source.
What We Like:
- High Efficiency: The 30W panels use advanced technology to convert sunlight into power with 23% efficiency.
- Fast Charging: It features both USB-A and USB-C ports that deliver fast charging speeds for your phone, tablet, or power bank.
- Smart Charging: A built-in chip protects your devices from overcharging and optimizes the charging speed.
- Super Portable: Weighing only 2.4 lbs and folding down to the size of a book, it easily fits into any backpack.
- Weatherproof: With an IPX5 waterproof and dustproof rating, it can handle rain and dirt, so you don’t have to worry about the elements.
- Everything Included: You get the solar panel, carabiners, a charging cable, a PE bag, and a user manual in the box.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sunlight Dependent: Charging speed depends heavily on weather conditions like sunlight intensity, angle, and clouds.
- Output Limitations: While it’s fast, the actual output might not be as fast as a wall charger, especially in less-than-ideal sunlight.
The SOLUPUP 30W Solar Charger is a fantastic companion for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to keep your essential electronics powered up wherever your adventures take you.
4. FlexSolar 20W Solar Panel Charger 5V USB-A USB-C Output Portable Foldable Small Power IP67 Waterproof Camping Backpacking Hiking Emergency for Phones Power Banks Flashlight Fans
Rating: 8.7/10
The FlexSolar 20W Solar Panel Charger is your go-to for powering up your gadgets when you’re off the grid or facing a power outage. This portable charger can juice up your phone, power bank, flashlight, and other small electronics using just sunlight. It’s designed for adventurers and emergency kits alike.
What We Like:
- It has both USB-A and USB-C ports, so it works with lots of different devices.
- The solar cells are super efficient, converting more sunlight into power than many other panels.
- It’s built tough with an IP67 waterproof rating, meaning it can handle dust and water.
- The foldable design makes it easy to carry in your backpack.
- An LED light shows you when it’s working, and a smart chip protects your devices from damage.
- It comes with carabiners, making it simple to hang on your backpack or a tree.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to shade your device from direct sun while charging to prevent overheating, which can stop the charging process.
This solar charger offers reliable power on the go. It’s a smart choice for anyone who needs a dependable way to keep their electronics charged outdoors or during emergencies.
5. [Upgraded] BigBlue Ultra-Light Portable 25W Solar Panel Charger with USB-A and USB-C Ports
Rating: 8.5/10
Meet the BigBlue 25W Solar Panel Charger, your new best friend for outdoor adventures and power outages. This charger is super light and folds up small, about the size of an iPad. You can easily carry it in your backpack or hang it up. It’s perfect for camping, hiking, or just when you need power on the go.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly compact and lightweight, making it easy to take anywhere.
- You can charge two devices at once with its USB-A and USB-C ports.
- The solar cells are designed to capture more sunlight for efficient charging, up to 25.4% efficient.
- It’s built tough with a special coating and materials to last a long time, even outdoors.
- It’s IP68 waterproof, so a little rain or splashes won’t hurt it.
- It comes with handy extras like a USB-C cable and carabiners.
What Could Be Improved:
- Charging speed can depend heavily on direct sunlight, so cloudy days might be slower.
- While it’s efficient, 25W might not charge larger devices like laptops very quickly.
This BigBlue solar panel is a reliable and portable way to keep your devices powered up when you’re away from an outlet. It’s a smart addition to your outdoor gear or emergency kit.
Your Pocket Powerhouse: Choosing the Best Solar Panel for Backpacking
Heading out on an adventure? You need reliable power for your phone, GPS, or headlamp. A solar panel for backpacking is your best friend. It harnesses the sun’s energy to keep your gear charged. This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
Wattage: The Power Output
Wattage tells you how much power the panel can produce. More watts mean faster charging. For most phones and small devices, 10-20 watts is usually enough. If you need to charge bigger items like a power bank or a tablet, look for 20 watts or higher.
Portability and Size: Easy to Carry
Backpacking means carrying everything. Your solar panel needs to be light and compact. Many panels fold up. This makes them easy to stash in your backpack. Check the dimensions when it’s folded and unfolded.
Durability: Built to Last
The outdoors can be rough. Your solar panel needs to be tough. Look for panels made with strong materials. They should also be water-resistant or waterproof. This protects them from rain and spills.
Charging Ports: What Can You Connect?
Most panels have USB ports. Some have multiple ports, so you can charge more than one device at a time. Check if the ports are standard USB-A or the newer USB-C. USB-C is usually faster.
Built-in Battery (Power Bank): Storing Energy
Some solar panels come with a built-in battery. This is like a portable power bank. It stores solar energy so you can charge your devices even when the sun isn’t shining. This is super handy for cloudy days or nighttime.
Important Materials
Monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline
Solar panels use silicon cells. Monocrystalline cells are made from a single silicon crystal. They are usually more efficient and perform better in low light. They also tend to be more expensive. Polycrystalline cells are made from many silicon crystals. They are less efficient but more affordable.
Outer Casing Materials
The panel’s casing protects the solar cells. Look for materials like durable fabrics (often nylon or polyester) for foldable panels. These fabrics should be water-resistant. Some panels have a hard plastic or metal frame for extra protection.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Sunlight Efficiency
How well a panel converts sunlight into electricity is key. Higher efficiency means faster charging. Monocrystalline panels generally offer better efficiency.
Weather Resistance
A good backpacking solar panel can handle the elements. Look for IP ratings (Ingress Protection). An IPX4 rating means it can withstand splashes of water. Higher ratings offer more protection.
Weight
Every ounce counts when backpacking. Lighter panels are easier to carry. Compare the weight of different panels before you buy.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Reputable brands often make better products. Read reviews from other backpackers. They can tell you about real-world performance and durability.
User Experience and Use Cases
Charging Your Phone and GPS
The most common use is keeping your phone or GPS device charged. This is vital for navigation and staying in touch.
Powering Other Gadgets
You can also charge headlamps, portable speakers, e-readers, or even small cameras. A higher wattage panel can handle these.
Emergency Preparedness
Having a solar panel provides a reliable backup power source in emergencies. You can always get power from the sun.
Extended Trips
For longer trips where finding power outlets is impossible, a solar panel is essential. It allows you to stay powered up for days or weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does it take to charge my phone?
A: It depends on the panel’s wattage, the sun’s brightness, and your phone. A 10-watt panel might take 3-5 hours to fully charge a smartphone in direct sunlight.
Q: Can I charge my laptop with a backpacking solar panel?
A: Most small backpacking panels are not powerful enough for laptops. You would need a much larger and higher-wattage panel, often called a portable solar generator.
Q: Are solar panels waterproof?
A: Some are water-resistant, meaning they can handle splashes. Truly waterproof panels are rare, but many have durable, weather-sealed casings.
Q: Can I charge my device at night or on a cloudy day?
A: Not directly. Solar panels need sunlight. However, if your panel has a built-in battery, you can use the stored energy at any time.
Q: How do I attach the solar panel to my backpack?
A: Many panels have grommets or loops. You can use carabiners or straps to attach them to your backpack straps or frame.
Q: Do I need a charge controller?
A: For most small backpacking solar panels, a charge controller is built-in or not necessary. They are more common with larger solar setups.
Q: Will direct sunlight always charge my device?
A: Direct, bright sunlight is best. Even partial shade or weaker sunlight will reduce charging speed.
Q: How much does a good backpacking solar panel cost?
A: Prices can range from $30 to $150 or more, depending on wattage, features, and brand.
Q: How do I clean my solar panel?
A: Gently wipe the surface with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
Q: Can I leave the solar panel on my backpack all day?
A: Yes, but be mindful of overheating. Some devices might stop charging if they get too hot.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.