10 Best Portable Solar Panels For RV in 2021 – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide
Our Top 3 Products
ALLPOWERS Bendable & Flexible Solar Panel 100W
- Bendable panel with a curve maximum 30-degree arc
- 70% more lightweight than alternatives
- Large pre-drilled holes to mount the panel at any rigid surface
HQST 100W 12 Volt Polycrystalline Solar Panel
- The anti-reflective solar panel can withstand high wind and snow loads with enhanced stiffness and impact resistance
- Includes waterproof MC4 connectors and an IP65 rated junction box to protect wires
- Multi-layered sheet laminations improve performance and provide a long service life
ACOPOWER 100W Foldable Solar Panel Kit
- The kit includes two monocrystalline foldable solar panels of 15.4% efficiency
- Protected by an aluminum frame and consists of a 10A solar charge controller
- Accessories include MC4 connectors, alligator clips, Anderson plugs, and others
Being on the road and traveling most of the time means that you are away from primary power lines.
Fortunately, portable solar panels for RVs exist to make it easy for us.
Especially on the road, it is better than carrying a massive, noisy generator, and losing quiet time.
You will come across different features and power options when looking into solar panels.
So firstly, it is best to determine how many devices you have to charge and your budget. Then, you can find the most cost-effective portable solar panel for your RV.
Luckily, we have compiled a comprehensive review of the 10 best portable solar panels for RVs, along with a detailed buyer’s guide to make purchasing easier for you. We have also provided a complete comparison table of the products reviewed in this article, making your purchase options simpler and quicker.
Towards the end of our review, we have included a FAQ section to clarify any questions that you might have. If it does not help, then you are always welcome to mention your queries in the comment section.
ALLPOWERS Bendable & Flexible Solar Panel 100W
Out of the portable solar panels mentioned in this review, we recommend the ALLPOWERS Bendable & Flexible Solar Panel 100W. Highly flexible with upto a 30-degree tilt, this mobile unit features an unconventional monocrystalline panel allowing a higher conversion rate and is easy to mount on irregular surfaces.
Quick Summary of Best Portable Solar Panels For RV
| Product Image | Product Name | |
|---|---|---|
|
A 30 Degrees Bendable Solar Panel For RV, Trucks, and Trailers
ALLPOWERS Bendable & Flexible Solar Panel 100W
The ALLPOWERS solar panel has a 30 degrees bendable feature and is more efficient than other conventional panels. |
View on Amazon |
|
Solar Starter Kit With a Monocrystalline Solar Panel of 12% Efficiency
Renogy 100W Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit
This solar kit includes a solar panel of 12% efficiency, and a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame protects it. |
View on Amazon |
|
Aluminum Framed Solar Panel With Waterproof MC4 Connectors
HQST 100W 12 Volt Polycrystalline Solar Panel
The weather-resistant solar panel can withstand high wind and snow load with its low iron-tempered glass. |
View on Amazon |
|
A Perfect Solar Kit For RV With an Average Power Output of 350Wh
WindyNation 100W Solar Panel Off-Grid RV
The WindyNation solar kit lets you mount the solar panel at the RV’s rooftop with its 40 feet 12 AWG solar cable. |
View on Amazon |
|
Premium Quality Solar Panel Compatible With Different Mounting Systems
Renogy 100W 12V Solar Panel High-Efficiency Module
This Renogy manufactured solar panel is resistant to high wind and snow load and features bypass diodes. |
View on Amazon |
|
Ready-to-Use Portable Solar Panel with a Foldable Case and Handle
ECO-WORTHY Off-Grid Monocrystalline Portable Foldable Solar Panel
This solar panel lets you carry around anywhere with its suitcase-style design that includes pre-installed charge controller. |
View on Amazon |
|
Ultra-Thin Solar Panel With Up to 248 Degrees Bending Arc
Renogy 12 Volt Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel
This monocrystalline solar panel can be bent up to 148 degrees and weighs 95% less than its traditional counterparts. |
View on Amazon |
|
Durable Solar Panel Constructed With Light-Weight Polymer
BougeRV Solar Panel With Thick PET SunPower Cell
The unit is an ultra-light, flexible and stable solar panel with strongly connected solar cells, complete with water resistance, heat dissipation, and an easy installation process. |
View on Amazon |
|
Foldable Monocrystalline Solar Kit With Pre-Installed Charge Controller
ACOPOWER 100W Foldable Solar Panel Kit
This foldable solar kit includes two solar monocrystalline solar panels that provide higher efficiency even in low light. |
View on Amazon |
|
Monocrystalline Solar Panel Protected With Five Layer Laminations
DOKIO 100W 12 Volts Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel
This solar kit covered with a thick waterproof fabric bag weighs less and has smaller dimensions for portability. |
View on Amazon |
Best Portable Solar Panels For RV of 2021 - Reviewed
ALLPOWERS Bendable & Flexible Solar Panel 100W
Features Highlights
- Bendable panel with a curve maximum 30-degree arc
- 70% more lightweight than alternatives
- Large pre-drilled holes to mount the panel at any rigid surface
- Contains 32 durable solar cells from SunPower that provides up to 23.5% efficiency
- An 18-month warranty with friendly customer service
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
43 x 22 x 1.5 inches
-
Weight:
4.85 pounds
-
Cell Type:
Monocrystalline
-
Manufacturer:
ALLPOWERS
-
Operating Current:
5.56A
This ALLPOWERS solar panel captures more sunlight than a traditional panel and features a 23.5% efficiency rate with a maximum 30-degree curve arc and weighs 70% less than other conventional solar panels. With its lightweight attributes, it is easy to mount on RVs, trucks, boats, and other irregular surfaces.
Now, let’s head into its features in detail:
Bendable Panel
This flexible solar panel boasts a frameless design and is less than 5% as thick as other panels. You can bend the panel to a maximum 30-degree arc, and mount it on irregular surfaces such as an RV, boat, trailers, or a van.
Powerful and Durable
This flexible panel contains 32 SunPower solar cells with up to 23.5% power efficiency and captures more sunlight than conventional solar panels. It is water-resistant, has a sealed and waterproof junction box, and is much more durable than a traditional glass and aluminum panel.
Lightweight
This compact solar panel weighs less than 5 pounds, which is about 70% less than the other panels on our review. Its lightweight allows you to transport and install the device easily.
Easy to Install
It includes six large pre-drilled holes on its side to securely mount the panel on top of your RV or any other vehicles. You can also fix the panel on any rigid surface with either adhesive, grommets, zip ties or velcro straps.
Sizable Guarantee
The manufacturer, ALLPOWERS, has provided an 18-month guarantee for the product; moreover, they provide friendly customer service when in need.
Pros
- 30-Degree max. bendable arc
- Weighs 70% less than counterparts
Cons
- Fragile solar power cells
- Not protected by an aluminum frame
Our Verdict
The flexibility and lightweight of this solar panel give you a smoother, more reliable access to solar power. While you can mount this panel on irregular surfaces and just as easily move it around, its fragile power cells could pose a problem. So, make sure to handle the device with care and avoid over-bending.
Renogy 100 Watts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit
Features Highlights
- The kit includes a 100 W solar panel, a 30A PWM charge controller among others
- The monocrystalline panel has a solar cell efficiency of 12% and a voltage of 12V
- Its charge controller supports a diverse range of solar off-grid applications
- The solar panel features a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame for durable outdoor use
- Can fully charge a 50 Ah Battery from 50% with its power output of 500 Wh
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
47 x 1.5 x 20.9 inches
-
Weight:
19.84 pounds
-
Cell Type:
Monocrystalline
-
Manufacturer:
Renogy
-
Operating Current:
5.29 Ah
The Renogy starter solar kit includes a monocrystalline solar panel, a PWM charge controller, mounting brackets, adaptor kit, tray cables, and some screws. The solar panel has a protective aluminum frame that prevents corrosion. The 30A charge controller protects your system from several threats and supports a variety of off-grid applications.
Let’s jump into some of the primary features of this portable solar unit:
All-Inclusive Starter Kit
This solar power starter kit includes the instruments and devices necessary to install the new system on your RV. It comes with a 100W 12V solar panel, PWM charge controller, mounting brackets, tray cables, adapter, and some screws.
High-Efficiency Solar Cell
The solar panel features a monocrystalline solar cell with a 21% cell efficiency with an output of 500Wh per day, and can fully charge a battery from 50% in just 3 hours on a sunny day.
Corrosion-resistant
The panel has a protective aluminum coating, which makes it more durable, corrosion-resistant, and able to withstand harsh weather conditions. If you take proper care, it can last for decades.
Negative Grounding Controller
The solar kit includes a 30A PWM negative grounding charge controller, which allows you to work with several off-grid systems, offers protection from overloading, short-circuits, and overcharging while a temperature sensor prevents overheating.
Easy Installation
The solar starter kit is easy to install and is perfect for people new to using a solar power system, and is especially great for RVs and other off-grid applications.
Pros
- Aluminum frame protection
- Ideal for off-grid systems
Cons
- Panel wires are labeled backward
- Fragile charge controller
Our Verdict
Primarily ideal for first-time users of solar power units, you get an easy starter kit with many benefits. However, the charge controller might be fragile and lose effectiveness, so make sure you take good care of the equipment.
HQST 100 Watt 12 Volt Polycrystalline Solar Panel
Features Highlights
- The anti-reflective solar panel can withstand high wind and snow loads with enhanced stiffness and impact resistance
- Includes waterproof MC4 connectors and an IP65 rated junction box to protect wires
- Multi-layered sheet laminations improve performance and provide a long service life
- Easy to mount on top of an RV with its pre-drilled holes at the back
- Minimizes power drop even during low light with its bypass diodes
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
35.6 x 25.9 x 1.4 inches
-
Weight:
15 pounds
-
Cell Type:
Polycrystalline
-
Manufacturer:
HQST Solar
-
Operating Current:
5.50A
This anti-reflective solar panel can withstand high winds and snow loads with its low iron-tempered glass. It has minimal performance drop even in the shade and can overcome harsh weather conditions.
Here are some of this product’s significant features:
Reliable
Equipped with an anti-reflective panel with multi-layered sheet laminates, and low iron-tempered glass improves its performance, increases its service life, and withstands high winds and snow loads.
Waterproof
Its back panel features a waterproof IP65 rated junction box with MC4 connectors that offers protection against harsh weather and environmental particles.
Easy Installation
The panel features a compact dimension and includes pre-drilled holes at its back, that allows you to mount the panel on top of your RV safely. Depending on the size of your RV, you can install multiple >HQST solar panels on its rooftop.
Excellent Low-Light Performance
The panel’s polycrystalline cell includes bypass diodes, which reduce power drop and ensure excellent performance in low-light environments. Plus, it has a high energy conversion efficiency with a daily output of 500Wh (watts per hour).
Decent Warranty
The solar power comes with a 5-year warranty on top of its durable features and will last for decades if taken care of well.
Pros
- 5-Year Warranty
- Multi-Layered Sheet Laminations
Cons
- Installed wires are too short
- Bad customer service
Our Verdict
The weather-resistant solar panel is perfect for harsh weather conditions. You don’t have to worry about taking it wherever you go. If you take good care of the product, it can last for decades, but it does not have satisfactory customer care services.
WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel Off-Grid RV
Features Highlights
- Kit includes 100W solar panel, 30A charge controller, MC4 connectors and other hardware
- Generates on average 350Wh power and 33Ah current per day on average
- The PWM charge controller can handle 4 to 8 solar panels with a power of 100W
- Includes a 40 feet long UL listed 12 AWG solar cable to connect the devices
- Contains several Z-shaped mounting brackets to install it on RV’s roof safely
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
40 x 1.4 x 26.4 inches
-
Weight:
19 pounds
-
Cell Type:
Polycrystalline
-
Manufacturer:
WindyNation
-
Operating Current:
5.75A
The WindyNation solar kit produces 100 watts of renewable power and features an LCD screen display, a polycrystalline solar panel, and other equipment with a 350Wh average output.
Let’s take a detailed look at its features:
Well-provided Starter Kit
The solar kit consists of a polycrystalline solar panel, a PWM charge controller, and some useful hardware like MC4 connectors, 12 AWG solar cable, and Z-shaped mounting brackets.
High Average Power Output
This polycrystalline solar panel can generate 100 watts of power. Depending on the sunlight, it can provide an average current of 350Wh or 33Ah. It has a maximum power current of 5.75A and a maximum power voltage of 17.4V.
LCD Screen and Adding Panels
The PWM charge controller has an LCD screen with user-adjustable settings that can support four solar panels of 100W when connected to a 12V system. Similarly, it can support upto eight panels of the same power when connected to a 24V system.
Lengthy Cable
The solar kit includes a 40 feet long UL listed 12 AWG solar cable, which lets you connect the solar panel with other devices, such as the charge controller. A lengthy cable enables you to install the panel on the roof of your RV and keep the controller inside.
Easy Mount
You can easily mount the photovoltaic (PV) panel on the roof of your RV. The kit includes several Z-shaped mounting brackets that allow you to attach the panel on the roof.
Pros
- 40 Feet 12 AWG solar cable
- Can support 8 solar panels of 100W
Cons
- Complicated installation process
- Defective controller’s LCD
Our Verdict
We recommend you purchase this solar kit if you have adequate knowledge regarding its installation. It contains a 40 feet solar cable that lets you connect the panel on the roof with the controller and battery inside the RV, but make sure you mount the panel accurately to prevent it from falling off.
Renogy 100W 12V Solar Panel High-Efficiency Module
Features Highlights
- Multi-layered sheet laminations and bypass diodes to enhance performance
- An anodized aluminum alloy frame and an IP65 rated junction box for protection
- Several pre-drilled holes on the back to safely mount on a rigid surface
- Equipped with low iron-tempered glass--resistant to high wind and snow loads
- Can use several off-grid settings and comes with a 25-year warranty
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
40.1 x 26.3 x 1.4 inches
-
Weight:
16.53 pounds
-
Cell Type:
Polycrystalline
-
Manufacturer:
Renogy
-
Operating Current:
5.62A
This Renogy solar panel features an anodized aluminum alloy frame that makes it durable and makes it suitable for harsh weather as well as for other off-grid systems.
Here are the features of this portable solar unit:
Reliable
This polycrystalline solar panel is laminated with a multi-layered sheet to enhance its performance. It also includes bypass diodes that prevent the panels from dropping performance in low-light environments.
Durable
An anodized aluminum alloy frame protects the panel. Also, an IP65 rated junction box covers the internal cables. It protects the wires from external threats, such as rainfall and dust particles. Similarly, the aluminum frame makes it corrosion-resistant as well as impact-resistant so that the unit can withstand high wind and snow loads.
Easy Installation
The solar panel includes several pre-drilled holes on the back so you can easily install the panel on the roof of the RV. Plus, you can mount the panel in three different styles, such as Z-bracket, pole mounting, and tilt mounting.
Versatile and Warranted
You can connect the solar panel to several off-grid systems apart from just RVs, mainly boats, dry camps, and small cabins. Upon purchase, you get a 25-years warranty for the product, giving you a higher productive period than most others.
Pros
- 25-Year Warranty
- Versatile mounting styles
Cons
- Poses glass hazard
- Decrease in efficiency after a few years
Our Verdict
Even though the device can handle thunderstorms and intense wind pressure, the glass is delicate and might shatter rather easily. Apart from that, you have flexible options to mount the panel in ways that you prefer. The flexibility of this device makes it an excellent choice for purchase.
ECO-WORTHY Off-Grid Monocrystalline Portable Foldable Solar Panel
Features Highlights
- A portable and foldable design that lets you carry around conveniently
- A pre-installed charge controller and a waterproof junction box for safety
- Resistant to high winds and snow loads and is protected with an aluminum frame
- Waterproof with anti-reflective panel for several off-grid systems
- Equipped with two alligator clips for battery charging and two adjustable aluminum stands
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
32.4 x 23 x 4.6 inches
-
Weight:
26.5 pounds
-
Cell Type:
Monocrystalline
-
Manufacturer:
ECO-WORTHY
-
Operating Current:
7.32A
This ECO-WORTHY solar panel is a foldable solar panel with a suitcase-like portable build; you just need to unfold the panels and set its aluminum stands before use. For system safety, it features a built-in charge controller and contains two junction boxes.
Portable Suitcase Design
This solar panel has a unique suitcase-style design with a handle at the top that lets you move it around with ease. It includes two adjustable aluminum legs that fit inside the panel when not in use.
Pre-Installed Safety Measures
With this solar panel, you don’t have to worry about the safety of your energy system. It comes with a pre-installed 15A charge controller and few controller cables to connect it with the panel; this protects your system from overcharging, under-voltage, and more. It also comes with two IP65 junction boxes that protect internal cables, and two alligator clips to connect to the battery.
Corrosion Resistant
The solar panel features a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame, which makes it resistant to up to 2400 pascals of high wind and 5400 pascals of snow load.
Multiple System Compatibility
This solar panel has high efficiency and works excellent with a variety of systems; it is compatible with RV, boat, camping, trailer, and other off-grid systems. Also, it operates with a low voltage and prevents the system from electric shock hazards.
Pros
- Ready-to-use; foldable design
- Low-voltage utility
- Prevents electric shock hazards
Cons
- Unreliable charge controller
- User-manual is not included
Our Verdict
This foldable solar panel is easy to carry, can be used for multiple systems, and you don’t have to purchase an external charge controller for your system. However, you might need to buy an extra charge controller, just in case, because the pre-included controller might not be as durable.
Renogy 12 Volt Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Features Highlights
- It can bend up to 248 degrees and weighs 70% less than conventional panels
- Can be attached or mounted to any rigid surface using either adhesive, velcro straps or nails
- Includes IP68 rated junction boxes and MC4 connectors, both are water-resistant
- Can withstand up to 2400 pascals of high wind and 5400 pascals of snow load
- Compatible with RV, boats, vans with its incredibly flexible and thin design
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
47.9 x 21 x 0.1 inches
-
Weight:
4 pounds
-
Cell Type:
Monocrystalline
-
Manufacturer:
Renogy
-
Operating Current:
5.29A
This ultra-thin lightweight solar panel has 148-degree bend flexibility. It is easy to attach or mount on rigid surfaces and irregular surfaces such as the roof of your RVs, boats, or vans with either velcro straps, adhesives or nails.
Here are some of its features:
Highly Flexible and Lightweight
This flexible solar panel, weighing 70% less than its counterparts, has a bendable 248-degree arc, which allows you to install the panel at any curvy and irregular surface.
Super Thin
Its solar cells have four layers of lamination covers. The panel is about 95% thinner than its counterparts. Its thickness is only 0.08 inches, making it easier for you to carry around and install at any surface.
Remarkably Durable
Rigorously tested by Renogy, assuring the quality of each product, before hitting the market, the solar panel can withstand high winds of up to 2400 pascals and a snow load of up to 5400 pascals.
Water-resistant Parts
The panel has two attached IP68 junction boxes to store the internal wires safely. It also features two MC4 connectors with cables to connect it to other devices; both of the items are water-resistant.
Easy to Install on Rigid or Curved Surfaces
The flexible solar panel features six pre-drilled holes that let you mount it using nails. Also, you can attach the panel to a rigid surface using either an adhesive or some velcro straps.
Pros
- Can be flexed up to 248 degrees
- 95% Thinner than its traditional counterparts
Cons
- Bad customer service
- Provides low efficiency
Our Verdict
While its extremely bendable material lets you mount it on any surface, this solar panel would only be an ideal choice if you have an RV with a somewhat curve exterior. However, it does not provide high efficiency, so you might want to consider other options if you look for efficiency rather than flexibility.
BougeRV Solar Panel With Thick PET SunPower Cell
Features Highlights
- The connection between its solar cells are made stronger and tighter
- Features heat dissipation, water-resistance, and four-layered lamination
- Six large pre-drilled holes with stainless steel ring
- Provides about 23% to 25% of efficiency with its thicker and stable surface
- Waterproof junction box with blocking diodes to prevent reverse current drain
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
41.3 x 21.3 x 1 inches
-
Weight:
6.7 pounds
-
Cell Type:
N/A
-
Manufacturer:
BougeRV
-
Operating Current:
5.62A
This ultra-durable solar panel consists of tightly connected solar cells that provide an efficiency of 23% to 25%. Four-layered lamination sheets protect the cells; as a result, the panel is thicker, stable, and stronger than its traditional counterparts.
Lightweight Polymer Build
This solar panel, made with lightweight polymer, includes highly efficient solar cells that have four-layered cover laminations. The upper layers are PET and EVA, and the lower layers are EVA and TPT anti-corrosion frames.
Durable
The 32 solar cells situated in this solar panel are tightly connected, whereas other conventional panels use cheap and fragile materials for this purpose. This product utilizes strong strands that prevent cell breakage.
Ultra-light, Waterproof, Flexible Surface
The solar panel is flexible enough to be mounted on top of an irregular RV roof. It stays undamaged even after rainfall and does not weigh much. The heat dissipation feature prevents its surface from burning due to overheating during hot days.
Prevent Reverse Charging
With a high-efficiency rate of about 23% to 25%, it includes a waterproof junction box that holds the internal cables and internal blocking diodes that prevent the system from reverse charging at night. It has a higher efficiency of about 23% to 25%.
Easy Installation
The panel consists of six pre-drilled holes with a stainless steel ring; that allows you to hang it vertically on a wall or install it on a hard surface with the help of screws. Also, it includes a safety MC4 connector with two 31 inches long cables.
Pros
- Strongly connected solar cells
- Prevents reverse charging at night
Cons
- Not a durable product
- Produces low voltage output
Our Verdict
The substantial aspect of this product would be the unique connection setting of solar cells. You can rely on its performance if you require a low voltage output. However, it misses the mark if used for an extended period, so this product would be a good purchase only if you rarely use solar panels on your RV.
ACOPOWER 100W Foldable Solar Panel Kit
Features Highlights
- The kit includes two monocrystalline foldable solar panels of 15.4% efficiency
- Protected by an aluminum frame and consists of a 10A solar charge controller
- Accessories include MC4 connectors, alligator clips, Anderson plugs, and others
- Features two adjustable aluminum stands, latches and a handle for portability
- Can charge two batteries simultaneously and is compatible with Gel, flooded and sealed batteries
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
25.4 x 19.9 x 2.9 inches
-
Weight:
25.6 pounds
-
Cell Type:
Monocrystalline
-
Manufacturer:
ACOPOWER
-
Operating Current:
3.62A
This solar kit from ACOPOWER features two foldable monocrystalline solar panels. The inner section of the package includes a pre-installed charge controller, two connector boxes, alligator clips, an Anderson plug, and other accessories. Each solar panel comprises a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame and has an efficiency of 15.4%.
Portable Foldable Design
This solar kit includes two pieces of foldable monocrystalline panels and features two adjustable aluminum stands, two latches, and a handle for portability.
Pre-installed Charge Controller
The inner section of this solar kit houses a pre-installed charge controller that has a rated current to 10 amperes and protects the system from overcharge, over-discharge, overload, and reverse charging.
Simultaneous Charging
Each solar panel has a 15.4% efficiency and performs great even in a low-light environment. It can charge two batteries simultaneously as well as supports batteries of various types and works well with Gel, flooded and sealed batteries.
Multi-device Connection
The solar kit comes with several accessories such as two connection boxes, two MC4 adapters, fuse, an Anderson plug, two alligator clips, and connecting cables. These accessories help you safely connect the kit with batteries and solar generators.
System Protection
Each solar panel comprises an aluminum frame and contains corner protection, which safeguards the panel from drops and shocks. Each panel includes a connector box that provides for bypass diodes that prevent the system from reverse charging.
Pros
- Simultaneously charges two batteries
- Works great in low light environment
Cons
- No pre-drilled mounting holes
- Relatively heavyweight
Our Verdict
This solar kit is a smart investment if you leave your RV or van idle for several hours. It is relatively heavyweight and does not have pre-drilled mounting holes, which means you will have to place it outside the vehicle. However, it means that you can focus on other activities while the solar panel does its job.
DOKIO 100W 12 Volts Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel
Features Highlights
- The versatile kit includes two solar panels covered by fabric, a charge controller and few cables
- Can be folded into a suitcase-like bag that contains velcro straps and a hook rope buckle
- Features a smaller dimension and a handle for portability
- Each panel has high efficiency with five layers of sheet laminations
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
27.9 x 13.8 x 0.2 inches
-
Weight:
5.73 pounds
-
Cell Type:
Monocrystalline
-
Manufacturer:
DOKIO
-
Operating Current:
6.1A
This solar kit consists of two monocrystalline solar panels covered by thick fabric with velcro straps and a handle. It readily includes an external PWM charge controller and several cables to complete the connection. It is a lightweight device with a smaller dimension that works excellently with RV, boat, cabin, and for other purposes.
Foldable Design
The DOKIO solar kit has two monocrystalline panels that fold into a suitcase-like bag. The bag, made of thick fabric, includes a handle, several hook rope buckles and velcro straps for safety and durability.
Included Charge Controller
The kit comes with a PWM solar charge controller that protects your system from several threats. It supports all kinds of 12V batteries and also includes some 3-meter cables and two alligator clips.
Lightweight
The solar panels are smaller and weigh less than other conventional panels but can still produce higher conversion efficiency and maximize the system output by reducing power loss.
Anti-reflective Panels
The panels are anti-reflective with a durable five-layer sheet lamination and include one SAE connector. The upper layers are ETFE and EVA, while the lower layers are EVA, insulating resins, and polyester canvas.
Protective Waterproof Fabric
This solar kit has waterproof fabric protection and can be used for multiple purposes apart from just RV, like on cars, motorcycles, boats, and snowmobiles.
Pros
- Lightweight and smaller dimensions
- Five layered lamination
Cons
- Fragile internal cables
- Bad customer service
Our Verdict
This solar kit includes all the necessary items required for your system except batteries and generators. You don’t have to purchase any external cables and controllers with this kit, but if you face any issues with the product, then you won’t get good customer service.
The Comparison Table
| S. No. | Portable Solar Panels | Operating Current (Amperes) | Dimensions (inches) | Weight (pounds) | Cell Type | Manufacturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Renogy 100 Watts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit | 5.29 | 47 x 1.5 x 20.9 | 19.84 | Monocrystalline | Renogy |
| 2 | HQST 100 Watt 12 Volt Polycrystalline Solar Panel | 5.5 | 35.6 x 25.9 x 1.4 | 15 | Polycrystalline | HQST Solar |
| 3 | WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel Off-Grid RV | 5.75 | 40 x 1.4 x 26.4 | 19 | Polycrystalline | WindyNation |
| 4 | Renogy 100W 12V Solar Panel High-Efficiency Module | 5.62 | 40.1 x 26.3 x 1.4 | 16.53 | Polycrystalline | Renogy |
| 5 | ALLPOWERS Bendable & Flexible Solar Panel 100W | 5.56 | 43 x 22 x 1.5 | 4.85 | Monocrystalline | ALLPOWERS |
| 6 | Off-Grid Monocrystalline Portable Foldable Solar Panel | 7.32 | 32.4 x 23 x 4.6 | 26.5 | Monocrystalline | ECO-WORTHY |
| 7 | Renogy 12 Volt Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel | 5.29 | 47.9 x 21 x 0.1 | 4 | Monocrystalline | Renogy |
| 8 | BougeRV Solar Panel With Thick PET SunPower Cell | 5.62 | 41.3 x 21.3 x 1 | 6.7 | N/A | BougeRV |
| 9 | ACOPOWER 100W Foldable Solar Panel Kit | 3.62 | 25.4 x 19.9 x 2.9 | 25.6 | Monocrystalline | ACOPOWER |
| 10 | 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel | 6.1 | 27.9 x 13.8 x 0.2 | 5.73 | Monocrystalline | DOKIO |
How Does a Solar Panel Work?
Solar panels are a crucial element in solar energy systems. Once placed under direct sunlight, they extract solar energy for a certain period. You can either connect one solar panel into your energy system or connect several of them to make a robust energy grid.
It is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to generate renewable energy. Once you place the panel on a rigid surface that gets direct sunlight, the panel starts converting the solar energy into power, which is then transferred to either a solar battery or a solar charge controller.
The power generated by such panels is usually Direct Current (DC). However, most of the equipment only supports Alternating Current (AC). For such cases, you need to connect an inverter that converts the generated energy to AC; this is not essential, though. If the equipment that you want to connect to a solar panel supports DC flow, then you can use it without an inverter.
Why Do You Need a Solar Panel For Your RV?
Imagine you’re on an adventurous vacation to a rustic destination, and you want to charge your electrical devices. You might carry a power bank with you, but it will not last long. So, you need a reliable energy source to power your electrical devices while you’re out there on your RV.
You might argue that there are other energy sources as well that can power your devices on the road; for instance, a generator, but they won’t be as convenient as a solar panel.
First of all, solar panels are an incredibly cost-effective option when compared to other sources. Apart from being extremely convenient to carry and operate, they don’t make loud noises, don’t pollute, and do not require frequent maintenance.
Solar panels are also one of the most reliable and safe sources of energy. Therefore, whenever you are planning for your RV trip, make sure you carry an exceptional solar panel with you.
Factors to Consider While Purchasing a Solar Panel For an RV - Buyers’ Guide
While purchasing a solar panel for your RV, you need to consider several factors regarding the device and your vehicle. To make your buying process simple, we have mentioned some essential factors that are crucial for determining which solar panel you should purchase.
Efficiency
While investing in a solar panel for your RV, you need to realize that these vehicles do not have a lot of space to mount a large panel. Thus, you need to make sure the solar panel you choose is portable and compact.
At the same time, it must generate a similar amount of energy that a larger panel does, so its ideal that you choose those solar panels that provide up to 30% energy efficiency.
Portability
Where do you want to mount the solar panels on your RV?
This will determine the portability of your potential solar panel. If you want to mount it on the roof, then it should be smaller than the actual roof. Similarly, if you’re going to hang it behind the window of the van, then it should be much smaller.
You can also place your solar panel outside the RV once you’ve reached your destination. In that case, you can purchase a foldable panel that easily fits under the seat. You can remove the panel only when you’ve reached your destination and place it beside your van.
Geographical Location
You need to consider where you will be going on your RV. If you intend to visit a warm destination with abundant sunlight hours, then you don’t need to purchase a highly efficient solar panel; a simple panel will be sufficient because you can charge it anytime during the day.
However, if you are planning to visit a colder destination, you need to search for the most effective system that can overcome low sunlight areas and provide enough power.
Power
The solar panels designed for RVs are not as powerful as that for household purposes. You need to invest based on what equipment you intend to use with that panel.
For example, if you only want to charge your smartphones and laptops, then a panel with 2W of power would be fitting.
If you want to power heavy equipment (refrigerators or TVs), however, then you need a panel with at least 30W of power.
Durability
The panel you select should be durable for several years or multiple uses. You will mount the panel either on top of your RV or place it outside the vehicle when it is not in motion. Whichever case it is, the panel should be durable and reliable enough to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You can power an RV Air Conditioner (AC) with a solar energy system, but you will need more than one compact solar panel to power such heavy equipment. You can power an AC, refrigerator, and other heavy equipment as well if you use solar panels with 30W or higher power output.
You can determine the size of your solar panel based on the appliances you will power inside your RV, and the form of current they operate in. The machines that support only Alternating Current (AC) require more power. Plus, you will need to determine how long the solar panel should power your devices.
Other determining factors are the size of your RV and the efficiency of a particular solar panel.
Similar to the previous question, this, too, depends on electrical devices you might use in your RV. If you want to charge only a few smartphones and power an LED light, then a single solar panel works great. But if you plan to power heavy equipment such as a TV or an oven, then you need more solar panels.
However, based on your power requirements, you can use a single solar panel with a higher efficiency that produces more power than two panels combined.
You need to clean your solar panel frequently so that it receives more sunlight. Make sure you position the solar panel in an open space, such as the roof of your RV, that has no obstructions, and its best to use energy-efficient RV lights that require little power.
Finally, make sure you are not wasting any energy. If you are not charging your smartphone, then make sure you remove the charger from the plug or switch it off instead.
Conclusion
Based on our reviews, these are the best portable solar panels on the market that works best for your RV. While we have ranked the products based on several factors, we do not claim that the first item on the list is best for you.
We recommend that you purchase the solar panel that would suit best for you, and this review should help you determine which unit you require.
If you used any one of the products mentioned above and think that our review is misleading, then feel free to contact us. We will update our report according to your feedback.
