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Finding the best solar panels for backpacking is no longer just a luxury—it’s a smart way to stay connected and powered up while exploring the great outdoors. No need to worry about running out of battery in the wild—just unfold, plug in, and harness the sun.
With more adventurers embracing off-grid travel, the demand for portable solar panels for backpacking has surged. Lightweight, foldable, and weather-resistant panels are now essential gear for hikers who want energy independence without adding bulk to their packs.
In this guide, we’ve tested and compared the 8 best solar panels for backpacking in 2025—ranging from compact 10W models to powerful 50W setups. These top picks are perfect for charging phones, GPS units, power banks, and more—without adding bulk to your pack.
Quick Comparison of the 7 Best Solar Panels for Backpacking
Brand | Top Features | Best For | Price |
BLAVOR |
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WASTDE |
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FlexSolar |
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SunJack |
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BigBlue |
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Anker Solix |
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FlexSolar |
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SOKIOVOLA |
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What to Look for in a Backpacking Solar Panel
When choosing the best solar panel for backpacking, wattage and charging speed are key. A panel with at least 10W–50W can efficiently charge phones, power banks, or small devices on the trail. Faster charging panels save time and are ideal for short daylight windows, especially in forested or mountainous terrain.
Weight and portability are equally important. The best backpacking solar panels are lightweight, foldable, and compact, fitting easily into your pack. Whether you’re a weekend hiker or on a long expedition, these portable designs won’t weigh you down and are often part of a great solar camper kit.
Also, consider compatibility—look for USB-A, USB-C, or DC outputs for charging various gadgets like smartphones, tablets, iPad, laptops, camera, GPS..etc. Finally, check for durability and weather resistance. IP65 or IP67-rated panels with ETFE coating can handle rain, dust, and rough use, while foldability and included loops or carabiners make them easy to mount on your backpack or tent.
Detailed Review of the 7 Best Solar Panels for Backpacking
1. BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger
If you’re looking for the best solar panels for backpacking, the BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger is a great pick. Its high conversion efficiency of up to 24% means you get more power from the sun, making it perfect for charging devices on the go.
This charger features two USB outputs, letting you charge multiple gadgets at once—ideal for smartphones, tablets, and power banks. Its lightweight, foldable design with included carabiners makes it one of the best portable solar panels for backpacking and camping adventures.
Built tough with water- and dust-resistant oxford cloth and a protective ETFE surface, this solar charger for campers is made to last through rugged conditions. Plus, it comes with everything you need to stay powered up off-grid, making it a smart companion for any outdoor trip.
🔑 Key Features
- Output: 10W
- Voltage: 5V
- Current: 2A max
- Conversion Efficiency: Up to 24%
- Weight: 0.81 lbs (12.96 oz)
- Folded Size: 7.4 × 7.5 × 1 inches
- USB Outputs: 2 (USB-A and USB-C)
- Material: Oxford cloth with ETFE polymer surface
- Waterproof Rating: IPX4 (water-resistant)
✅ Pros
- High 24% conversion efficiency
- Lightweight and foldable
- Budget friendly
⚠️ Cons
- Only 10W output
- Water-resistant, not waterproof
📦 Kit Includes
- BLAVOR 10W Solar Panel
- USB A to USB C Cable
- 2 Carabiners
- User Manual
2. WASTDE 15W Small Portable Solar Panel Chargers
The WASTDE 15W Solar Panel stands out as one of the best solar panels for backpacking, thanks to its ultra-lightweight and compact foldable design. At just 0.92 pounds, it easily clips to your backpack and charges on the move—perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
With a 20–30% efficiency rate and dual USB-A and USB-C outputs, it delivers fast, reliable charging for phones, power banks, and more. That makes it one of the best portable solar panels for backpacking and off-grid trips.
Its built-in storage bag keeps your cables safe and dry, while the IP65 rating protects the panel from rain, dust, and light snow. Durable ETFE material ensures long-lasting use, making it a smart choice as a solar charger for campers.
🔑 Key Features
- Output: 15W
- Voltage: 5V
- Current: 3.0A max
- Efficiency: 20%–30%
- Weight: 0.92 lbs (0.42 kg)
- Folded Size: 7.5 × 7.5 × 1.2 inches
- Unfolded Thickness: 0.15 inch
- USB Ports: USB-A and USB-C
- Material: Monocrystalline with ETFE coating
- Waterproof Rating: IP65
- Storage Bag: Included (PU material)
✅ Pros
- High 30% conversion efficiency
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Dual USB ports (USB-A & USB-C)
⚠️ Cons
- Only 15W output
- Not suited for heavy device charging
📦 Kit Includes
- 1× Solar Panel
- 1× Type-C Cable
- 2× Carabiners
- 1× Instruction Manual
3. FlexSolar Small 20W Solar Charger
The FlexSolar 20W Solar Charger earns a top spot among the best solar panels for backpacking with its compact size and reliable dual USB output. It weighs under 1 lb and folds down like an iPad—perfect for stuffing in your backpack without adding bulk.
With up to 24% efficiency and smart IC technology, it delivers fast, safe charging for phones, tablets, and more. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or off-grid, it’s one of the best lightweight solar panels for backpacking that keeps you connected on the trail.
Built with rugged ETFE material and IP67 waterproofing, it stands up to tough conditions like dust, rain, and heat. If you’re looking for portable solar panels for camping, this is a durable, efficient choice designed for outdoor reliability.
🔑 Key Features
- Output: 20W
- Voltage: 5V
- Current: 3A max (per port)
- Efficiency: Up to 24%
- Weight: 0.99 lbs (450g)
- Folded Size: 12 × 9.8 × 0.6 inches
- Unfolded Size: 18 × 12 × 0.6 inches
- USB Ports: 1× USB-A, 1× USB-C
- Material: Monocrystalline with ETFE coating
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
✅ Pros
- Dual USB ports for flexible charging
- Lightweight and ultra-portable
- High 24% solar conversion rate
⚠️ Cons
- Doesn’t store power
- Junction box not fully waterproof
📦 Kit Includes
- 1× FlexSolar 20W Foldable Solar Panel
- 2× Carabiners
- 1× User Manual
4. SunJack 25 W Foldable Monocrystalline Solar Panel
The SunJack 25W foldable kit easily earns a spot among the best solar panels for backpacking. With durable ETFE construction, IP67 waterproofing, and fast-charging USB-A and USB-C ports, it’s built to handle rugged outdoor conditions while powering your essential gear.
It folds down to the size of a tablet and fits neatly into any backpack, making it one of the best portable solar panels for backpacking. The included dual 10,000mAh power banks mean you can store energy and stay charged, even when the sun goes down.
This is a complete solar charging solution for off-grid trips, hikes, and emergency kits. Whether you’re powering a phone, tablet, or light, it’s a compact, reliable solar battery charger that keeps your adventure going.
🔑 Key Features
- Output: 25W
- Ports: USB-A & USB-C
- Power Banks: 2 × 10,000mAh included
- Efficiency: 24%
- Weight: 2.7 lbs
- Material: Monocrystalline silicon + ETFE
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
- Folded Size: 11″ × 7.8″ × 1″
✅ Pros
- Compact and folds like a tablet
- Includes 2 high-capacity power banks
- Fast charging with USB-C & Quick Charge 3.0
⚠️ Cons
- Slightly heavier than other backpacking panels
- Higher price due to included accessories
📦 Kit Includes
- 25W Foldable Solar Panel
- 2 × 10,000mAh Power Banks
- USB-A and USB-C Output Ports
- Built-in Storage Pocket
- Magnetic Closure and Elastic Straps
5. BigBlue Portable Foldable 28W Solar Panel
Looking for the best solar panels for backpacking? The BigBlue 28W solar charger is a solid choice. With triple USB ports (up to 5V/4.8A max), it charges multiple devices quickly and safely under direct sunlight. It’s also lightweight at just 1.5 lbs and folds down to fit in your pack easily.
Its high-efficiency solar cells convert up to 25.4% of sunlight into usable energy—great for powering phones, speakers, and power banks on the trail. Plus, it’s made with durable materials and includes a water-resistant polymer surface, making it perfect for rugged outdoor use.
If you’re searching for the best portable solar panels for backpacking or need solar battery chargers that keep up with your adventures, this panel has you covered.
🔑 Key Features
- Output: 28W
- USB Ports: 3 (5V/3A each, 5V/4.8A total)
- Solar Conversion Efficiency: Up to 25.4%
- Weight: 1.5 lbs
- Folded Size: 11 × 6 × 1.4 in
- Material: High-quality polymer surface
- Water Resistance: IP44 (Junction box not waterproof)
- Compatibility: Phones, power banks, small USB devices
- Charging Tech: Smart IC for safe, optimal charging
✅ Pros
- Charges 3 devices at once
- High solar efficiency (25.4%)
- Compact and lightweight for travel
⚠️ Cons
- Can’t store power
- Not for laptops or large devices
📦 Kit Includes
- 1× BigBlue 28W Solar Panel Charger
- 1× USB-A to USB-C Cable (50cm)
- 4× Carabiners
- 1× User Manual
6. Anker Solix 30W Foldable Portable Solar Panel
Looking for the best solar panels for backpacking? The Anker Solix PS30 is a great pick. It delivers 30W of solar power, enough to charge phones, tablets, or cameras on the trail. With USB-A and USB-C ports, it powers two devices at once.
This compact, foldable charger is easy to carry and built for travel. It’s IP65 weather-resistant, so light rain or dust won’t stop your charging session. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or off-grid, it’s a reliable companion.
If you want the best portable solar panels for backpacking, Anker’s durable design and high-efficiency charging make it a smart choice.
🔑 Key Features
- Output: 30W
- Weight: 2.2 lbs
- Ports: USB-A and USB-C
- Water Resistance: IP65
- Design: Foldable and compact
- Charging: Supports charging 2 devices simultaneously
- Efficiency: High-efficiency solar conversion
✅ Pros
- 30W output delivers faster charging on the trail
- Dual USB ports power two devices at once
- IP65 rating ensures durability in rainy or dusty conditions
⚠️ Cons
- A bit heavy
- Not very compact
📦 Kit Includes
- 30W Anker Solix Solar Panel
- Carabiner ×2
- User manual
7. FlexSolar 40W Foldable Solar Panel Charger
If you’re looking for the best solar panels for backpacking, the FlexSolar 40W foldable charger is a top pick. It’s lightweight and compact, so it fits easily in your pack without adding bulk. Plus, the dual USB ports (USB-A QC3.0 and USB-C PD2.0) deliver fast charging for all your devices on the go.
This solar panel shines with its impressive 24% efficiency and tough IP67 waterproof rating, making it perfect for unpredictable outdoor conditions. Whether you’re camping or using it as a solar RV battery charger, it gives reliable power wherever you are.
Thanks to smart IC chip technology, it optimizes charging safely, protecting your devices from overheating and short circuits. For outdoor lovers, this is truly one of the best portable solar panels for backpacking and beyond.
🔑 Key Features
- Output: 40W
- Ports: USB-A QC3.0, USB-C PD2.0, 19V DC
- Weight: 1.76 lbs (0.8 kg)
- Folded Size: 8.0 × 11.1 × 1.8 inches
- Solar Conversion Efficiency: 24%
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
- Material: ETFE laminated monocrystalline cells
✅ Pros
- High-efficiency 40W output
- Multiple fast-charging ports (USB-A, USB-C, DC)
- Durable and waterproof design
⚠️ Cons
- No built-in battery storage
- Optimal performance requires direct sunlight
📦 Kit Includes
- 1 × 40W Solar Panel
- 2 × Carabiners
- 1 × User Manual
8. SOKIOVOLA 50W Foldable Solar Panels
If you’re looking for the best solar panels for backpacking, this 50W foldable solar charger from SOKIOVOLA is a top pick. It’s super lightweight at just 2.1 lbs and folds down compact, so it’s easy to pack for camping, hiking, or off-grid travel.
With USB-A, USB-C, and DC outputs, you can charge phones, tablets, GPS devices, and more. It uses high-efficiency solar cells with a 95% light transmittance, ensuring better power generation even in less ideal sunlight.
Built tough with ETFE coating and IP68 waterproofing, this panel is made to survive the elements. Whether you need a portable RV solar panel, the best lightweight solar panel for backpacking, or a backup solar battery charger, this one checks all the boxes.
🔑 Key Features
- Output: 50W
- USB-A Port: QC3.0 18W max
- USB-C Port: PD 30W max
- DC Port: 18V/2.78A max
- Material: ETFE coating, UV-resistant EVA
- Waterproof Rating: IP68
- Weight: 2.1 lbs
- Folded Size: 14.69 × 7.88 × 1.19 inches
- Included Cables: 5521, XT60, 7909, Anderson
- Smart IC Technology: Yes
✅ Pros
- Lightweight and compact for backpacking
- Multiple output ports (USB-A, USB-C, DC)
- IP68 waterproof and dustproof
⚠️ Cons
- No built-in battery storage
- Junction box is not waterproof
📦 Kit Includes
- SOKIOVOLA 50W Portable Solar Panel x1
- Mountaineering buckle x2
- 2-meter 5521 connector cable x1
- Connector tips: 5521, XT60, 7909, Anderson x1
- User Manual x1
Final Thoughts
We’ve rounded up 8 of the best solar panels for backpacking, each selected for its performance, portability, and efficiency. Starting with the BLAVOR 10W, it’s a great ultra-compact budget friendly option for light packers needing basic phone charging.
Stepping up in capacity, the SunJack 25W and BigBlue 28W balance compactness with the ability to charge multiple devices efficiently, making them reliable companions on longer outdoor adventures. The Anker Solix PS30 stands out for its durable design and dual-port output, a trusted name with dependable performance.
At the top end, the FlexSolar 40W and SOKIOVOLA 50W panels deliver serious charging power. With multiple output ports, high-efficiency conversion, and rugged, weather-resistant builds, these are ideal for extended trips, off-grid camping, and even as part of a solar camper kit or portable RV solar panel setup.
FAQs: Best Solar Panels for Backpacking
What is the best solar panel for backpacking?
The best solar panel for backpacking combines lightweight design, high efficiency, and durable construction. Panels between 20W and 50W are ideal for charging phones, power banks, and small devices while on the go.
How do I choose a solar panel for camping or backpacking?
Look for wattage that matches your power needs, portability, compatibility with your devices (USB-C, USB-A), and weather resistance. Foldability and mounting options also improve convenience for outdoor use.
Can I use portable solar panels to charge power banks and laptops?
Most portable solar panels are great for charging power banks, phones, and tablets. However, charging laptops requires higher wattage panels or dedicated solar battery chargers designed for larger power draws.
Are waterproof solar panels necessary for backpacking?
Yes, weather resistance like IP65 or IP67 ratings ensures your solar panel withstands rain, dust, and harsh outdoor conditions. Durable panels last longer and perform better in varying environments.
What are the benefits of a solar camper kit or portable RV solar panel?
Solar camper kits and portable RV solar panels offer higher power capacity, multiple charging ports, and rugged designs. They are perfect for extended trips, off-grid living, and keeping multiple devices charged efficiently.