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Editor’s Note: This guide was originally published in 2019 and has been thoroughly updated for 2026 with current pricing, verified product availability, and replacement of five discontinued solar panels from our earlier list.
Whether you are hiking the Appalachian Trail, car camping with the family, or just want to keep your phone charged at the campsite, a portable solar panel is one of the most useful pieces of gear you can pack. The problem is that the portable solar market moves fast — panels that were best-sellers two years ago are often discontinued or replaced with newer models.
We updated this guide for 2026 by checking every product on our previous list. Five of the seven panels are no longer available, so we replaced them with current models you can actually buy. Here are the best portable solar panels for camping and hiking right now.
Quick links: Jump to Our Top Picks, How to Choose, or FAQ.
Our Top Picks for 2026
| Panel | Wattage | Weight | Price | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BigBlue 28W Solar Charger | 28W | ~2.1 lbs | ~$60 | 4.4? | Best overall for camping |
| SunJack 25W Foldable Kit | 25W | ~3.5 lbs | ~$80 | 4.5? | All-in-one with power banks |
| Anker 625 Solar Panel | 21W | ~1.8 lbs | ~$55 | 4.3? | Lightweight hiking |
| Goal Zero Nomad 50 | 50W | ~6.4 lbs | ~$200 | 4.5? | High power, base camp |
| Jackery SolarSaga 60W | 60W | ~7.3 lbs | ~$180 | 4.5? | Power stations & serious off-grid |
| Sunforce 15W Charging Kit | 15W | ~4 lbs | ~$25 | 3.7? | Ultrabudget trickle charging |
Prices shown are approximate and may vary by seller. All prices verified at time of publication; check Amazon for current pricing.
1. BigBlue 28W Solar Charger — Best Overall for Camping
The BigBlue 28W is the panel we recommend to most campers. It is the highest-rated foldable charger on Amazon with nearly 10,000 reviews, and for good reason: it delivers real-world charging speeds that match its specs, folds down to the size of a magazine, and costs under $60.
The triple-panel design gives you 28 watts of peak output — enough to charge two phones simultaneously at near-wall-charger speeds in direct sunlight. The integrated ammeter lets you see exactly how much power you are getting, which is useful for finding the best angle and position.
Pros
- Proven performer: Nearly 10,000 ratings at 4.4? — one of the most-reviewed portable panels
- Dual USB output: Charge two devices at once
- Built-in ammeter: See real-time charging performance
- Compact fold: Folds to magazine size, fits in a daypack
Cons
- No built-in battery: You need a separate power bank to store energy for later
- USB-A only: No USB-C output — you will need a cable or adapter for newer devices
2. SunJack 25W Foldable Solar Panel Kit — Best All-in-One Kit
The SunJack has evolved since we first listed it. What was once a 20W panel is now a 25W foldable kit that comes with two 10,000mAh power banks, an IP67 waterproof rating, and ETFE coating for durability. At around $80, you get a complete solar charging system — panel, batteries, and cables — in one package.
This is the panel to get if you do not want to think about buying separate components. The included power banks mean you can charge during the day and have power ready for your devices at night, even if the sun goes behind clouds.
Pros
- Complete kit: Includes two 10,000mAh power banks — no separate purchase needed
- Waterproof: IP67 rating handles rain and splashes
- ETFE coating: More durable and efficient than PET-coated panels
- High reviews: 4.5? from 149 reviews
Cons
- Heavier: At ~3.5 lbs with power banks, it is heavier than panel-only options
- Higher price: ~$80 is more than standalone panels, but you are getting batteries included
3. Anker 625 Solar Panel — Best for Lightweight Hiking
Anker is known for reliable charging gear, and the 625 Solar Panel continues that reputation. At just 1.8 pounds, it is the lightest panel in this lineup — a real difference when every ounce counts on a multi-day hike. It delivers 21 watts through a single USB port and folds down small enough to strap to the outside of a backpack.
This is the successor to the older Anker 21W charger that was previously on our list. If you liked the original, you will find the 625 to be a solid upgrade with better build quality and the same dependable Anker performance.
Pros
- Ultralight: 1.8 lbs — the lightest in this lineup
- Anker reliability: Known brand with strong customer support
- Compact: Folds small enough to strap to a backpack
Cons
- Single USB port: Only charges one device at a time
- Lower wattage: 21W is less than the BigBlue or SunJack
4. Goal Zero Nomad 50 — Best for High Power at Base Camp
If you need serious wattage — for charging a power station, running a small fridge, or keeping multiple devices topped off at a base camp — the Goal Zero Nomad 50 delivers 50 watts in a foldable, kickstand-equipped design. It is the successor to the discontinued Nomad 20 and represents a significant upgrade in power output.
This panel pairs beautifully with Goal Zero’s Yeti power stations, but it works with any USB or 8mm-compatible power bank. The built-in kickstand is genuinely useful for angling the panel toward the sun without propping it on rocks or gear.
Pros
- High wattage: 50W — enough to charge a power station or run small appliances
- Built-in kickstand: Easy angle adjustment for maximum sun exposure
- Goal Zero ecosystem: Pairs seamlessly with Yeti power stations
- Durable build: ETFE coating and ruggedized corners
Cons
- Heavy: At 6.4 lbs, it is not a backpacking panel
- Expensive: ~$200 is a significant investment
- Overkill for phones: You do not need 50W to charge a phone
5. Jackery SolarSaga 60W — Best for Power Stations
The Jackery SolarSaga 60W is designed to work with Jackery’s Explorer power stations, but its standard DC output means it works with most portable power stations on the market. At 60 watts, it is the most powerful panel on this list and can recharge a 300Wh power station in about 6 hours of good sun.
This is the panel for serious off-grid setups — van lifers, RV campers, or anyone who needs to keep a power station charged for extended trips. It is not a hiking panel; at over 7 pounds, it stays in the vehicle.
Pros
- 60W output: Fastest charging on this list for power stations
- Wide compatibility: Works with Jackery and most other power stations
- Kickstand included: Adjustable angle for optimal sun capture
Cons
- Heavy: 7.3 lbs — this is a vehicle-based panel, not a backpacking one
- Premium price: ~$180 puts it in the “serious gear” category
6. Sunforce 15W Solar Battery Charging Kit — Best Ultrabudget Option
The Sunforce 15W kit is the cheapest panel on this list at around $25, and it shows in the reviews — 3.7? is lower than we would like. But it earns a spot because at this price point, it is a legitimate entry-level option for trickle charging a battery, keeping a gate motor topped off, or adding a small solar boost to a shed or outhouse.
We would not recommend this as your primary phone charger on a camping trip — the output is modest and the build quality is basic. But for the price, it is a functional solar panel that does what it claims, as long as your expectations are realistic.
Pros
- Cheapest option: ~$25 makes it accessible for any budget
- Includes wiring: Comes with battery clamps and wiring for direct battery connection
Cons
- Low rating: 3.7? reflects real quality concerns from buyers
- Low wattage: 15W is slow for phone charging — expect 3–4 hours for a full charge
- No USB output: Designed for battery clamps, not direct device charging
How to Choose a Portable Solar Panel for Camping
Wattage: How Much Power Do You Need?
A phone battery holds about 10–15Wh. A 20W panel in good sun can charge a phone in about an hour. If you are just keeping phones and headlamps charged, 20–28W is plenty. If you want to charge a power station or laptop, you need 50W or more.
Weight vs. Power: The Backpacker’s Trade-off
Every watt of solar capacity adds weight. The Anker 625 at 1.8 lbs gives you 21W — a good watts-per-pound ratio for hiking. The Jackery at 7.3 lbs gives you 60W, but you would not want to carry it on a trail. Match the panel to your activity: ultralight panels for backpacking, heavier panels for car camping.
Panel + Power Bank vs. All-in-One
Solar panels only charge when the sun shines. If you want power at night or on cloudy days, you need a power bank to store the energy. The SunJack kit includes power banks, which is convenient. For standalone panels like the BigBlue or Anker, pair them with a separate 10,000–20,000mAh power bank for the best experience.
Water Resistance
Camping means unpredictable weather. The SunJack has an IP67 waterproof rating, which means it can handle rain and splashes. Most other panels are water-resistant but not waterproof — they can handle a light drizzle but should not be left out in heavy rain. Check the IP rating before you buy if you camp in wet climates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge a laptop with a portable solar panel?
Technically yes, but you need a panel with 50W+ output and a power station with AC output. Small USB panels (20–28W) do not output enough voltage or wattage for laptops. The Goal Zero Nomad 50 or Jackery SolarSaga 60W paired with a compatible power station can handle laptops.
Do solar panels work on cloudy days?
Yes, but at reduced output — typically 10–25% of their rated capacity on a heavily overcast day. A 28W panel might only produce 3–7W in cloudy conditions. This is why pairing a panel with a power bank is important: charge the bank when the sun is out, use it when it is not.
How do I get the most power from my solar panel?
Angle the panel perpendicular to the sun, keep it clean, and avoid shading — even partial shade on one cell can cut output dramatically. If you are stationary, adjust the angle every few hours as the sun moves. If you are hiking, strap the panel to the top of your backpack facing up.
Can I leave a solar panel out in the rain?
Only if it has an IP67 or IP68 rating. Most foldable panels are water-resistant (can handle splashes) but not waterproof (cannot be submerged or left in heavy rain). The SunJack with IP67 is the safest choice for wet conditions. For other panels, bring them inside when rain is expected.
Which Panel Should You Pick?
| Your Activity | Best Pick |
|---|---|
| Car camping with the family | BigBlue 28W or SunJack 25W Kit |
| Backpacking / ultralight hiking | Anker 625 Solar Panel |
| Base camp with power station | Goal Zero Nomad 50 or Jackery SolarSaga 60W |
| Tight budget, basic needs | Sunforce 15W Kit |
For most campers, the BigBlue 28W is the sweet spot — powerful enough to charge two phones at once, light enough to carry, and affordable at under $60. If you want a complete kit with batteries included, the SunJack 25W is worth the extra $20.
Next step: Looking for a solar charger you can keep in your pocket? Check out our guide to the best solar phone chargers, or pair your panel with the right solar charge controller for a bigger setup.
Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. AESV may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have personally evaluated or that meet our testing criteria.