Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Best Backpacking Solar Panel
Power your trail adventures with the lightest, most durable solar panels built for backpackers. Charge phones and GPS devices reliably, even under tree cover.
Looking for a reliable solar panel for your next adventure? I’ve tested dozens of portable solar panels, and these 5 stand out for their performance, durability, and value.
Quick Overview
The BigBlue 28W leads with triple USB ports and smart charging tech, perfect for charging multiple devices. The ZeroKor 30W shines with its book-style design and versatile outputs. SunJack’s 25W panel brings military-grade waterproofing, while Callsun combines a 10000mAh power bank with solar charging. The PPQ 40W rounds out the list with the highest wattage and impressive 24% conversion efficiency.
| Model | Wattage | Weight | Ports | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BigBlue | 28W | 1.5 lbs | 3 USB-A | 4.4/5 | $67.49 |
| ZeroKor | 30W | 1.65 lbs | USB-C, USB-A, DC | 4.7/5 | $69.99 |
| SunJack | 25W | 1.7 lbs | USB-C, USB-A | 4.5/5 | $79.99 |
| Callsun | 28W | 2.07 lbs | 2 USB-A, USB-C | 5.0/5 | $63.99 |
| PPQ | 40W | 3.67 lbs | USB-C, USB-A, DC | 4.8/5 | $69.99 |
Key Features Comparison
- Best Overall: ZeroKor 30W – perfect balance of power, ports, and price
- Most Powerful: PPQ 40W – highest wattage with 24% conversion efficiency
- Most Portable: BigBlue 28W – lightest at 1.5 lbs
- Best Value: Callsun 28W – includes 10000mAh power bank
- Most Durable: SunJack 25W – IP67 waterproof rating
BigBlue 28W Solar Charger
Key Features
- Triple USB-A ports with 5V/4.8A total output
- Back Contact solar cells for better durability
- 25.4% solar conversion efficiency
- IPX4 water resistance
- Compact size: 11× 6×1.4 inches
- Lightweight: 1.5 lbs
What’s Good
- Smart charging tech for safe power delivery
- High-quality BC cells reduce heat buildup
- Portable design perfect for backpacking
- Comes with carabiners for easy mounting
- Wide device compatibility
What’s Not
- Can’t store electricity
- Not suitable for laptop charging
- Performance depends heavily on direct sunlight
- Junction box isn’t waterproof
What Customers are Saying
Users praise the charging adapter’s:
- Reliable phone charging capability
- Compact and lightweight design
- Durability and sturdiness
- Good value for money
- User-friendly operation
Perfect For
This backpacking solar panel is ideal for:
- Extended camping trips
- Hiking adventures
- Emergency backup power
- Areas with unreliable power grids
Price
$67.49
ZeroKor 30W Portable Solar Panel Charger
Key Features
- Book-style foldable design
- 3 charging outlets (DC, USB-C, USB-A QC3.0)
- IP65 waterproof panel surface
- Compact size: 9.8″ x 9.6″ x 1.4″ (folded)
- Lightweight: 1.65 lbs
- 30W maximum output
What’s Good
- Smart book-inspired folding design
- Multiple charging options for various devices
- Quick charging capabilities with QC3.0
- Waterproof panel construction
- Super portable and lightweight
What’s Not
- Connector box isn’t waterproof
- 30W output might be low for larger devices
- Can’t be left outside permanently
What Customers are Saying
- High rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars shows strong customer satisfaction
- Users praise its portability and charging efficiency
Perfect For
- Backpacking trips
- Camping adventures
- Emergency backup power
- Charging small devices on the go
Price Point
$69.99 – Great value for a versatile portable solar panel
SunJack 25W Foldable Solar Panel Charger Review
Key Features
- 25W maximum output with dual USB ports (USB-A and USB-C)
- IP67 waterproof rating
- ETFE exterior layer with 95% UV permeability
- Smart IC chip for safe charging
- Folds to tablet size with magnetic closure
- Built-in storage pocket with mesh design
What’s Good
- High-efficiency monocrystalline panels
- Fast charging with 3A output per port
- Weatherproof and durable construction
- Compact, portable design
- Smart protection features
- Made by a USA company with good customer service
What’s Not
- Higher price point than some competitors
- May be bulky for ultralight backpackers
- Maximum output requires direct sunlight
What Customers are Saying
- Fast charging capability even in less-than-ideal conditions
- Solid construction quality gets positive mentions
- Easy setup and operation
- Mixed opinions on size vs portability
- Some debate about price-to-performance ratio
Perfect For
- Extended backpacking trips
- Emergency preparedness
- Camping and outdoor activities
- Charging multiple devices simultaneously
Price
$79.99
Callsun 28W Solar Charger with Power Bank
Key Features
- 28W solar charging capacity
- 10000mAh power bank included
- 3 charging ports (1 USB-C, 2 USB-A)
- 23.5% solar conversion efficiency
- IP66 waterproof rating
- Foldable design: 12×7.08×0.79 inches
- Weight: 2.07 lbs
What’s Good
- Fast 18W PD charging through USB-C
- High-efficiency monocrystalline solar cells
- Powers iPhone 3x, Samsung 2x, tablet 2x
- Compact foldable design fits in backpack
- Includes carabiners for easy attachment
What’s Not
- Junction box isn’t waterproof
- Charging speed affected by cloud cover
- Heavier than some competitors
What Customers Are Saying
Users praise the solid construction and quick charging capabilities. Many mention getting multiple device charges from a single charge of the power bank.
Price
$63.99
Perfect For
Best backpacking solar panel for those wanting a reliable power bank combo with fast charging capabilities. Great for weekend camping trips or extended outdoor adventures.
PPQ 40W Portable Solar Panel Kit
Quick Specs
- Power Output: 40W, 18V/2.2A
- Weight: 3.67 lbs
- Efficiency: 24%
- Size: 12″x42″ (unfolded), 12″x10″ (folded)
- Price: $69.99
Key Features
- 14 output options with dual USB, Type-C, and DC ports
- 7-layer protection with ETFE lamination
- Briefcase-style design
- Military-grade construction
- IP67 waterproof rating
- Includes 2 cables and multiple connectors
What’s Good
- High 24% conversion efficiency
- Versatile compatibility with most devices
- Premium build quality
- Smart chip with energy-saving algorithm
- Comprehensive accessory package
- Supports veteran causes
What’s Not
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Takes up more space when unfolded
Best For
This backpacking solar panel is perfect for:
- Extended camping trips
- Multi-device charging
- Rugged outdoor use
- Emergency backup power
PRODUCT_URL: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XDLP6BH?tag=reimagininghe-20
Title: BigBlue Solar Generator 100W Kit:400Wh Solar Power Station Kit with 100W Solar Panel Charger Power Kit+DC/AC Battery Bank with PD 60W, QC3.0, Fully Charged within 4.5-5Hrs, for Camping RV Home Emergency
PRICE: 249.99
PRODUCT_IMAGE: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71NcnF4s4SL._AC_SX679_.jpg
AFFILIATE_LINK: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XDLP6BH?tag=reimagininghe-20
PRODUCT_INFO:
【100W Foldable Solar Panel】BigBlue provides the 100W solar panels kit with this portable power station kit, which has a higher 24% conversion rate.
【Super Fast Solar Charging】The solar power station supports up to 100W solar charging, and comes with a 100W solar panel, which can be fully charged within 4.5-5 hours under direct sunlight.
【Pure Sine Wave Inverter】400Wh solar generator kit with 7 outputs provide a variety of charging options that can meet almost any need, The two pure sine wave AC outlets (150W, peak 250W) are designed to protect your sensitive electronics like CPAP, laptops, cameras and phones.
【Power Supply】This solar power generator is ideal for powering small appliances like laptops, drones, CPAP machines, cameras, etc. Due to conversion loss, the actual available capacity for AC output is about 320Wh.
【What You Get】 BigBlue solar generator and 100W solar panels are compliant with CE, FCC, RoHS and UN38.3 certifications. ⭐【Note】This solar generator is not suitable for medical equipment that requires stable power.
CUSTOMER_REVIEWS: Very happy with this solar panel setup. Just used it for a 4 day camping trip with no issues at all. Big enough to keep everything charged up.|Excellent solar generator. I use it to power the medical equipment I need while I sleep. Great battery life and fast charging.
PRODUCT_RATING: 4.6
CTA_TEXT: BUY ON AMAZON
Frequently Asked Questions About Backpacking Solar Panels
Q: Can I charge my solar panel through a tent or window?
No – you’ll get much weaker charging through any barrier. Place your solar panels in direct sunlight for the best results. Glass and fabric block crucial wavelengths that solar panels need to generate power efficiently.
Q: How long does it take to charge a phone with a solar panel?
With direct sunlight and a 28-30W panel, you can charge a smartphone in 2-3 hours. Charging speed depends on sunlight strength, panel angle, and your device’s battery capacity. Cloudy days will increase charging time significantly.
Q: Are backpacking solar panels waterproof?
Most panels are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. The solar cells usually have IPX4-IPX6 ratings, meaning they handle light rain or splashes. The connection ports and junction boxes need protection from water. Bring your panel in during heavy rain.
Q: What size solar panel do I need for backpacking?
For most backpackers, a 20-30W panel hits the sweet spot. This size charges phones, tablets, and small devices while staying lightweight. Get a bigger panel (40W+) if you need to charge laptops or multiple devices daily.
Q: Should I get a solar panel with built-in battery storage?
For backpacking, separate components work better. A standalone panel paired with a power bank gives you more flexibility. Built-in batteries add weight and limit your charging options. Plus, if one component fails, you can still use the other.
