Solar Panels For Camping

While many of us understand a lot more about solar energy then we did a decade ago, few of us understand much about solar panels for camping.

In this guide, we will explore a bit more about this subject.

Small Use of Solar Panels for Camping

As you would expect, solar panels for camping trips are portable, but this does not mean they are any less effective than a normal solar panel. On a camping trip, the power that you will require is not as much as you use on a ‘regular’ trip, therefore, portable solar energy panels are perfect. The majority of solar panels used for camping trips are 12, 24 or 36 volts because this is all that is needed.

Solar Panels for Camping Price

As you would expect, the prices for these solar products have decreased in recent years as they have become much more efficient. Currently, you can get a more than suitable 40 watt solar panel for under $300, which is a great price considering that the majority of portable solar panels for camping also come attached with a 25 year guarantee.

What Can It Power?

This really depends on what model you buy and how much power it can exert. A 130 watt solar panel can easily power a laptop, some lights and a few small appliances without any problems. If you are deciding to buy a solar panel for your camping trip then the best thing to do is to ask the company how much power you will require, they will be more than qualified to give you the correct answer.

Solar Panels for Camping are Portable

As you would expect from ‘smaller’ sized solar panels they are portable. All you are required to do is to pack them up, carry them around, and then set them up again if you decide to move. The frames are usually collapsible and weigh less than 4 kilograms. If you really want to, you could buy a sheet of aluminium and structure yourself a carry case. You could put together an aluminium carry case for well under $100.

Why Not Buy A Solar Panels for Camping Kit?

There are specially designed solar panel kits for campers. These kits come equipped with a solar panel, a stand, jump leads (along with the attachments) and a portable bag. This could be the perfect answer for your camping trip, especially if you are driving and in a remote location.

A 20 watt kit would weigh less than 3 kilograms; have different attachments for power sockets, come with a portable bag and a separate stand. A 20 watt kit can be used to jump start a 12V car, and will assist in the running of electricity, (even though if you are planning to use it for more than one small appliance you should probably buy a higher voltage kit).

Before you buy any of these products, always check what the expected operating voltage is, in the example above, the product can produce 20 watts. However, it is more likely that 17.2 volts will be produced in the Australian conditions.