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6 Best Portable Solar Panels for Your Next Camping Trip

We've got the six best portable solar panels for your outdoor needs right here.

The variety of camping methods out there is starting to be come as wide as the open spaces we cherish. Some of us prefer to truly rough it with tents out in the backcountry, while others choose to take a more luxurious approach by car camping or staying at an RV park.

For the free spirit who demands to remain mobile, but still stay charged, few things will prove to be as useful as a high-quality portable solar panel. In fact, these can handle far more than the average cell phone charge, as most can provide the kind of portable power that'll keep even a larger dwelling going in a pinch.

We've compiled a short list of reliable solar panels that we would recommend to any of our fellow outdoorsmen looking for a little extra on their next adventure.

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Soxono Solar Charger Power Bank

This solar charger can be powered either by the sun or through a 5V/2C adapter. And, with three USB ports, it's easy for multiple users to get a charge at the same time.

The GoerTek Solar Charger Power Bank is ideal for charging electronics such as GoPro cameras, tablets or any other outdoor tech items you might carry with you.

It's also equipped with 36 LED lights for nighttime use (or a power outage) and includes a USB cable and a carabiner.

BigBlue Foldable Solar Charger

This fast-charging, 18V camping solar panels works well for your standard Jacker or Rockpals generator, as well as tablets, cellphones, iPads and other electronics that the camping crowd uses most often. It employs kickstands that can be used to mount the solar panel at the proper angle for maximizing output and energy efficiency.

It's also water-resistant and comes in at a very reasonable price point for the average camping family.

Goal Zero Boulder 100 Briefcase

The Goal Zero Boulder 100 weighs less than 26 pounds, so you can carry it like a briefcase on even a long off-grid adventure. This ultra-safe system only connects with 8mm jacks, however.

It comes kickstand ready to match the sun's position and keep you in power as long as you tend to it like any other solar panel.

ECO-Worthy 195W 12V Solar Panel

As one of the best folding solar panels, the ECO-Worthy protects against overloads, overcharging, over discharge, and even reverse connections. Its aluminum frame is made for the outdoorsman or woman who asks a lot of his or her gear.

Honestly, it's a great portable solar system for those whose power needs aren't that great, but still need a trustworthy and affordable solar kit.

Goal Zero Nomad 28 Plus Solar Panel

The Goal Zero Nomad 28 Plus Solar Panel is a truly portable device that weighs just 3 pounds and can be taken anywhere with relative ease. This is a good option for those who mostly need to power small electronic devices and charge a battery bank, but we don't always need high wattage when we're in the campground.

It comes with a dynamic auto-restart and with a memory that remembers the recent power flow and knows how to react if temporarily disconnected.

Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

The Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit is one of many systems offered by Renogy. For a device that will power your RV in no time, its price point is terrific.

With an included 8 feet of cable, you can park your RV, pitch your tent, or set up camp in the shade and leave the unit right in the direct sunlight to power everything you have.

Choosing a Portable Solar Panel

The most common option is the crystalline panel, but there are also solid monocrystalline and polycrystalline choices. Technology may come and go, but some will give you more mobility and maneuverability while sacrificing efficiency.

Solar efficiency should be the top priority. This tells you the rate at which the energy is converted from the sunlight to DC current. The higher the number, the smaller the panels, which weigh less and perform better.

High-efficiency portable power stations are now something everyone can get behind for their camping trips.

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NEXT: THE 15 MOST USEFUL SOLAR-POWERED ITEMS FOR SPORTSMEN