As recently as a decade ago, no one would think twice about going backpacking without a cell phone. You’d leave it in a car at the trailhead, and answer any messages after you packed out. But with our increasingly connected lives, having 24/7 cell phone access is more and more important to people.
But what do you do when you’re on a weekend or weeklong trip? Even the most robust phone batteries will die after a couple of days, particularly if they’re in the backwoods, straining for a signal.
We’ve decided to find the best solar charger for backpacking, so you can stay juiced up both at home and in the woods.
In our search for the best backpacking solar charger, we’ve looked at large, high-powered models and smaller, more easily-portable models. We’ve also looked for the chargers with the biggest power supplies, so you can recharge while you’re hiking from campsite to campsite.
Best Backpacking Solar Chargers
Amazon.com 1. BigBlue
BigBlue 3
$72.96 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- 【Upgraded Triple USB-A Ports】Each maximum output is 5V/2.4A and total maximum current of 3 USB is at 5V/4.8A. BigBlue 28w solar charger allows you to charge multiple devices at once. It comes with smart charge technology which can recognize your device smartly then providing optimal charging speed vary with different devices. BigBlue ensure 100% safe charging with overcurrent, overheating and short-circuit protection.
- 【Higher Solar Conversion】Highly efficient SunPower solar panel convert up to 24% of solar power into free energy in enough sunlight, which is the most durable panels at present, standing up to elements and wear and tear better than conventional panels. This special PET polymer surface protects solar panel from occasional rain or wet fog and three ports are covered with rubber cover to protect them from dust or water damage.
- 【Portable Camping Solar Panel】BigBlue solar charger is a great option if you’re taking an extended camping trip or if you’re traveling somewhere with an unreliable power grid. With compact size (11.6 × 6.3× 1.3in folded) and lightweight (20.5 oz) design, it is portable and light enough to fit into any camping backpack or hiking daypack. It is also a must have for stashing in an emergency kit.
- 【Wide Compatibility】BigBlue USB solar charger offers a tiny power plant that can generate power for your phone (Android and Apple) and small electronics to keep them charged when the sun is out (Note: you need the extra original cable for Apple devices). Our solar phone charger can't store the electricity and can't charge the laptops and iPad Pro.
- 【Package & Support】You will get BigBlue 28W Solar Charger, 50cm USB-A to USB-C Cable, User Manual and friendly Customer Service. Note: Any cloud or cover may influence the charging speed. Although our solar charger with automatic restart function, we still suggest you to reopen the solar panels and replug your device if the charging is too slow.
The BigBlue is another big, powerful charger that’s designed for charging three devices at once.
Key Features
- 3 USB ports
- 5V/3.4A power output
- 28 watts total power
- Weighs 21 ounces
- 4 large mounting grommets
- Collapsible
- Includes a 3-foot Micro USB cable
- Open dimensions: 33.1 × 11.1 × 0.2 inches
- Folded dimensions: 11.1 × 6.3 × 1.3 inches
The BigBlue puts out – surprise! – 28 watts of power, making it the most powerful on our list. This makes a difference when you have devices plugged into all three USB ports since your power won’t drop below 3.4 Amps due to powering multiple devices.
That said, the BigBlue comes with the same downside as other large panels. While it collapses reasonably small, it’s still heavy and isn’t really justified unless you actually need this much power. If you do, though, the BigBlue comes with a 24-month warranty that’s among the best in the business.
Pros
- Fast, powerful charge
- Charges 3 devices without the need for a battery pack
- 24-month manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Large and heavy
If raw power is what you crave, this 28-watt solar panel is the most powerful on our list.
2. ADDTOP
ADDTOP
$42.99 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- 25000mAh Massive Capacity: The high capacity solar panel charger enables to power up a phone for 7-8 times, a tablet for 2-3 times after once fully recharged. And it can provide power about 1 week.
- 4 Foldable Solar Panels: With 4 high-performance portable solar panels, the charging speed of battery charger is 4X faster than that of single panel. Besides, the foldable design makes it convenient to hang on your backpack when outdoors.
- Charge 3 Devices Simultaneously: This solar battery pack is equipped with two USB A output ports and one USB C in/output port, which can charge 3 devices simultaneously.
- Outdoor Power Backup: The solar phone charger with bright flashlight is reliable power resource for emergencies. The solar powered charger is a handy tool for camping, cycling, fishing, traveling, hiking.
- Portable & Protective Design: The solar portable charger is designed to be lightweight enough to put into any camping or hiking backpack. And the protective structure makes it rugged to defend against water, dust and shock.
The AddTop is very compact and will fold down to the size of a smartphone.
Key Features
- 2 USB ports
- 5V/2.1A power output
- 5 watts total power
- Weighs 1.18 pounds
- Integrated 25,000mAh battery
- Can be charged from a USB wall charger
- Collapsible
- Open dimensions: 6.1 x 15.1 x 1.14 inches
- Folded dimensions: 6.1 x 3.3 x 1.37 inches
The AddTop 25000mAh Solar Charger is a 2-port charger with a 2.1-Amp output. This isn’t terrible, but it’s not as fast as a high-powered charger. It weighs just over a pound, including the 25,000mAh battery pack that’s built into the unit. This battery provides several smartphone charges and can be charged at home before you go camping. Alternatively, it can be charged with the AddTop’s solar panel, although a full charge will take about a full day.
That said, the AddTop is extremely compact. It closes to the size of a smartphone, and even when it’s open it’s about the size of a notebook. And it comes at an affordable price, making it a great value.
Pros
- Very compact
- Affordable
Cons
- Relatively low power
- Takes a long time to charge via solar
This solar charger is ideal if space and affordability are your primary concerns.
3. Nekteck
Features
- 【High-Efficieny】The high-efficiency of its three solar Monocrystalline panels cell is based on SunPower Maxeon technology, that allows the usb solar charger to reach 21%-24% of conversion efficiency while providing enough power (up to 2.0A max per port or 3.0 A max overall)
- 【Advanced Smart IC Chip Technology】 The Microchip of Nekteck solar phone charger support to detects the electronic devices plugged into the USB ports for fast charging two phones simultaneously under safe conditions as well as the prevention of overheating
- 【Portable and Foldable】The 6.3x 11.1x 1.06 inch (when folded ) small size and 17.3-ounce design that can easily squeeze in your backpack offers portability and simplicity, and the attachment hook makes the portable solar charger ideal for connecting to a backpack while you’re on the hiking or walking around town
- 【Dualable Design】The canvas surface and precision stitching withstand rugged for outdoor use and the PET polymer cover that guarantees IPX4 waterproof level protection will make the solar panel resistant to water and even dust
- 【Package】Nekteck 21W Portable Solar Charger, 2.6ft(80cm)Micro USB Cable, User Manual
The Nekteck 21W is a large, powerful solar panel that can charge two devices at once.
Key Features
- 2 USB ports
- 5V/3A power output
- 21 watts total power
- Weighs 1.1 pounds
- Waterproof panels
- 4 large mounting grommets
- Includes a 3-foot Micro USB cable
- Open dimensions: 26.3 x 11.1 x 0.52 inches
- Folded dimensions: 6.3 x 11.1 x 1.06 inches
The Nekteck 21W Solar Charger is a 21-watt solar panel that’s powerful enough to charge two USB devices simultaneously at 3 Amps. This is significant since most chargers have a drop-off in wattage when you plug in a second or third device.
When fully opened, the NekTeck is more than two feet long, but it collapses down to a small package that’s easy to fit in your backpack. The construction isn’t as flimsy as we’d like to see, but it comes with an 18-month manufacturer’s warranty in the event that something goes wrong.
Pros
- Fast, powerful charge
- Lightweight for its size
- 18-month manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Not very durable
This solar charger features waterproof panels, so it won’t get ruined if you get caught in the rain.
4. X-DRAGON
X-DRAGON
$64.98 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- ☀️ Exclusive SolarIQ Technology: With built-in smart IC chip, it can automatically adjust the current and voltage to achieve maximum power,delivering its fastest possible current up to 2 amps per port or 3 amps overall under direct sunlight
- ☀️High Efficiency: SunPower solar cell is made from US, up to 22%-25% efficiency, while most panels in the market are 15% efficiency
- ☀️Dual-USB Power: 20 watt sunpower provides enough power to charge cellphone and other 5V devices at the same time
- ☀️Water-Resistant and Safety Protection : PET solar panels with rugged high-wear Oxford fabric offer weather-resistant durability for any outdoor environments and activities. Surge protection, short circuit protection and more advanced safety protections keep you and your devices safe
- ☀️Package Contents: 20W Foldable Solar Charger, 4 hooks, micro USB cable, instruction manual
The X-Dragon has four large stainless steel mounting rings that make it easy to secure to your backpack.
Key Features
- 2 USB ports
- 5V/2A power output
- 20 watts total power
- Weighs 1.3 pounds
- Collapsible
- Built-in surge protector
- 4 built-in heavy mounting D-rings
- Includes Micro USB cable and carabineer
- Open dimensions: 23.3 x 12.1 x 0.12 inches
- Folded dimensions: 12.1 x 7.2 x 0.51 inches
The X-Dragon Portable is a 20-watt collapsible solar charger with two USB ports. It provides 2 Amps of power, which is towards the low end of the scale, but still not unreasonably slow for charging. It includes a micro USB cable for your devices and a carabineer for securing it to your backpack with one of the sturdy D-rings.
The neat thing about this charger is the built-in surge protector. If something should malfunction and cause a power surge, your electronic devices will remain safe from any damage. The X-Dragon is also more rugged than most solar chargers, with a beefy nylon frame that can take a beating.
Pros
- Easy to mount
- Built-in surge protector keeps your devices safe
- Durable construction
Cons
- Relatively low power
If you’re concerned about the safety of using a portable solar charger, the X-Dragon’s built-in surge protector will set your mind at ease.
5. X-DRAGON 25000 mAh
X-DRAGON 25000mAh
Free shipping
Features
- ☀️【Wireless Charger】 The real Qi wireless solar charger，supports inductive charging of all wireless charging mobile phones，frees you from messing cables
- ☀️【Removable Solar Panel】 Unlike traditional solar panel, it is updated with 3 removable panels(1.5W*4=6W, 300ma*4=1.2A,300mah*4=1200mah/hours), quickly charging the cellphone simutaneously when the solar charger itself is being charged in sunlight, reducing the solar charging time up to 75%
- ☀️【Outdoor & Disaster emergency】 Built-in LED flashlight with 3 modes, steady light, SOS, strobe,25000mAh high capacity Li-polymer battery & 4 solar panels can provide you with continuous power,it could fully charge most smart phones about 6-8 times.It is not only suitable for outdoor activities, but also can be used as a family emergency in case of power failure such as Floods, blizzards, earthquakes & hurricane season
- ☀️【WATERPROOF DUAL USB OUTPUTS & INPUTS】: Equipped with 2.4A dual usb outputs, it can charge two devices at the highest speed simultaneously. The micro USB and type C dual inputs (5V2A max)are available, it provides you with more options to charge. The unique design of USB ports, which is waterproof, dustproof and shockproof, perfect for outdoor activity
- ☀️【Satisfactory Customer Service】 You can get: 1 Solar power bank, 1 micro USB cable, 1 carabiner, 1 magnetic sealing bar and 1 user manual. We offer an 18-month product warranty, If at any time you have any questions, please contact us first
The X-Dragon Solar Power Bank has an exceptionally weatherproof design, with a waterproof screen and a durable, waterproof case.
Key Features
- 2 USB ports
- 5V/2.1A power output
- 3.6 watts total power
- Weighs 11.8 ounces
- Integrated 25,000mAh battery
- Collapsible
- Rain-proof design
- Built-in LED flashlight
- Open dimensions: 6.1 x 11.57 x 0.55 inches
- Folded dimensions: 6.1 x 3.34 x 0.79 inches
The X-Dragon Solar Power Bank is a rugged, well-engineered power bank with a collapsible solar backup power supply. This backup is more powerful than most on the market, providing 3.6 watts of power, or enough to fully charge the 10,000mAh battery in about a day. At night, you can use the LED flashlight to find your way around your campsite.
The USB ports are nothing to write home about, but they’re still within a reasonable power range, with 2.1 Amps of power. One thing we really liked about this X-Dragon unit was the price; it’s very reasonable, and a great value for everything you get.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable construction
- Compact and portable
- Affordable
Cons
- Relatively low power
- Charges slowly on solar
This power bank charges more quickly from its solar backup than most compact power banks on the market.
6. Voltaic Systems
Voltaic Systems
Free shipping
Features
- INCLUDES A BATTERY PACK (POWER BANK) to charge your laptop quickly and safely. Store power and charge your device(s) from the included V88 Battery Pack - rain or shine, day or night. Completely charges most laptops in 2 hours, 1 hour to charge most smartphones.
- INCLUDES A 2-YEAR WARRANTY. Our solar panels are designed to last. Built using rugged fabric and strong solar cells that can withstand the rigors of everyday use (2 year on solar panel, 1 year on battery pack)
- HIGH PERFORMANCE SOLAR PANELS made from industry-leading monocrystalline solar cells fully charges V88 power bank in just 6 hours of direct sunlight.
- DESIGNED TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THE SUN | Only weighs 3.25 lbs. Attach to your backpack or stash into the smallest of spaces in your travel bag. Reinforced attachment points allow for easy mounting on various backpacks, bicycles, and touring gear
- COMPATIBILITY | Designed to power and charge thousands of laptops computers, DSLR batteries and USB devices like the Macbook, iPhone, iPod, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Sony, Nikon, Canon, GoPro, Blackberry, Android devices, and other smartphones. *May require additional adapters, see details below*
The Voltaic Systems Arc 20 is a large, heavy-duty charging system with a complete solar panel and battery backup.
Key Features
- 2 USB ports and 1 laptop port
- 5V/3A USB power output
- 12V/16V/19V/24V variable laptop port output
- 20 watts total power
- Weighs 3.5 pounds
- Integrated 24,000mAh battery
- Waterproof
- Collapsible
- LED display
- Includes 10 common laptop adapters
- Open dimensions: 33.9 x 10.0 x 0.1inches
- Folded dimensions: 7.5 x 10.0 x 0.8 inches
The Voltaic Systems Arc 20 is a complete backpacking power kit that includes both a 20-watt solar panel and a beefy, 24,000mAh battery. It’s waterproof, and collapses to the size of a laptop computer, although it weighs in at a hefty 3.5 pounds that you’re going to notice in your pack.
Not only does this charger offer two fast, powerful 3-Amp USB ports, it also has a variable-voltage laptop port that can push up to 24 volts. The kit includes 10 different laptop adapters, and will automatically adjust the voltage to the appropriate level for your machine. To top things off, Voltaic Systems offers a 2-year warranty on the solar panel and a 1-year warranty on the battery pack.
Pros
- Fast, powerful charge
- Charges most common laptops
- Large battery capacity
- 2-year manufacturer’s warranty (1 year on battery pack)
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
If you want all the features and aren’t concerned about weight, you’ll love this backpacking solar kit.
7. ECEEN
ECEEN
Free shipping
Features
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: The portable solar panel made by mono-crystalline solar cells which highly efficient solar phone panels convert up to 24% of solar power into free energy. The solar panel charger just utilizes the natural sunlight to charge your device, like a cellphone and Ipad simultaneously, It’s a green charger without battery and not too heavy to carry.
- USB SMART OUTPUT: The portable solar panels Built-in Smart IC frequency technology automatically adjusts to connected devices and provides the optimal charging current to minimize charging time, The usb solar panel detects all connected devices' input and distributes current output accordingly sunlight level.
- COMPACT CARRY: The folding solar panel have compact size (11.5 x 6.0 x 1.0 in. folded / 12.8 × 12.0 × 0.5 in. open). Lightweight (0.8 pounds) and ultra-thin design (1.0in folded) make it great for camping, hiking, picnics, and other outdoor activities. The mini solar panels benefit from free solar energy in a lightweight foldable format you can always carry with you no matter where you go.
- ZIPPER PACK DESIGN: The solar powered charger are foldable zip pack design like book, Exposure to damp conditions will not damage the exterior part of the solar iphone charger. The wave straps on backside of solar panel make it easier to transport, hang, install, removable and easy attachment to backpacks, trees, or tents. And the soft external rainproof zipper pocket allow to stocking your device, cables gadgets convenient.
- PACKAGE & WRRANTY: You will get 1 - ECEEN 10W solar panel charger, 4 - carabiners, 1 - 40cm Micro USB cable, 1 - instruction manual. 12 months warranty. We also offer you a 100% risk-free satisfaction guarantee to let you buy with confidence; no questions asked.
The Eceen is a lightweight solar panel that comes at a very reasonable price.
Key Features
- 2 USB ports
- 5V/1.5A power output
- 10 watts total power
- Weighs 12.8 ounces
- Includes a 3-foot Micro USB cable and 4 carabineers
- Nylon/poly shell zippers shut
- Collapsible
- Includes carabineers and D-rings
- Open dimensions: 12.8 x 12 x 0.25 inches
- Folded dimensions: 11.5 x 6 x 0.5 inches
The Eceen is a small, 10-watt solar panel that folds in and zips shut into its nylon/poly shell. This makes it not only easily portable but also surprisingly durable considering the low price of the unit.
That said, “small”, “lightweight”, and “affordable” also mean “low power”. This 10-watt panel only puts out 1.5 Amps per USB port, so your devices will charge slower than they would on a standard charger. That said, you won’t need to carry a heavy battery pack, and you can always use the included D-rings and carabineers to mount the Eceen on your pack if you decide to use it on the go.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to transport
- Affordable
Cons
- Relatively low power
This backpacking solar panel zips shut like a pencil case, making it easy to stow and go in seconds.
Bottom Line
As you can see, there are significant differences between different types of portable solar chargers. Some are 18 inches or more to a side when they’re open, and are made to charge several devices at once. Some are smaller and are designed to charge a portable power supply over the course of an entire day.
When choosing a charger, you ultimately need to answer three questions:
- How many devices do you need to charge?
- How much time are you spending hiking versus remaining at the campsite?
- How much bulk are you willing to add to your kit?
Depending on the answer to those questions, your needs are going to be different. You may even find that multiple smaller chargers are a better solution than a single large charger if you have several devices to charge and you aren’t spending many daylight hours in camp.
For more backpacking essentials check out the following posts:
The Review
Best Solar Charger For Backpacking
Here are the best solar charger for backpacking on the market today along with their pros and cons to help you choose which one to buy.
Review Breakdown
- BigBlue 3
- ADDTOP
- Nekteck
- X-DRAGON
- X-DRAGON 25000mAh
- Voltaic Systems
- ECEEN
Best Solar Charger For Backpacking DEALS
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