Camping can be a fantastic way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Being outdoors offers a chance to reconnect with nature, and having the right gear can make all the difference.
One essential piece of equipment for campers today is a solar charger. They let you keep your devices powered without needing a traditional outlet, making outdoor adventures more convenient.
Solar chargers come in various styles and sizes, designed to fit different types of camping trips. Some are lightweight and portable, perfect for backpacking, while others are more robust, suitable for car camping.
The best solar chargers can charge phones, tablets, and even small gadgets like cameras, helping to ensure that you stay connected and have access to useful tools while enjoying the great outdoors.
When choosing a solar charger, there are key factors to consider. Look at the power output, as this affects how quickly your devices will charge.
Size and weight matter, especially if you plan to carry the charger during hikes. It’s also important to check for durability and waterproof features, ensuring that it can withstand the elements.
I tested a range of solar chargers to find the best options for camping, ensuring you can enjoy your outdoor experiences without worrying about battery life.
Best Solar Chargers for Camping
I love camping, and having a reliable solar charger can make a big difference. Below, I’ve gathered a list of some of the best solar chargers out there to keep your devices powered up while enjoying the great outdoors.
BigBlue 28W Solar Charger
I recommend the BigBlue solar charger for its solid performance while camping.
Pros
- Charges multiple devices quickly.
- Compact and easy to carry.
- Durable design, handles weather well.
Cons
- Slower than wall charging.
- Doesn’t store power.
- Less effective in shaded areas.
Using the BigBlue charger on my recent camping trip was a game changer. The compact size made it easy to pack, and it was light enough that I barely noticed it in my bag.
I needed to keep my phone and a small speaker charged while out in the wilderness. The three USB ports were a big help, allowing me to charge multiple devices at once.
The solar panels worked best in direct sunlight, providing decent speed when the sun was out. On days when it was partly cloudy, I noticed the charging speed dropped, which could be frustrating.
It didn’t store power, so I had to keep it in the sun while my devices charged.
The build quality felt reliable. I didn’t worry about the rain as much because the panels have a protective surface. I’ve used it in different conditions and appreciated that it didn’t show much wear and tear.
Overall, if you’re heading out for some camping or just need backup power, the BigBlue solar charger is a great option to consider.
BLAVOR Solar Charger
This solar charger is a handy tool for camping trips, especially if you need to keep your devices powered up.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design that’s easy to carry.
- Fast charging abilities with USB-C and wireless options.
- Built-in flashlight and durable materials for outdoor use.
Cons
- Solar charging can be slow, especially in less sunny conditions.
- Some users report issues with included charging cables.
- It may not fully charge devices exclusively from solar power.
I recently took the BLAVOR Solar Charger on a camping trip, and it really impressed me. The lightweight design made it simple to toss in my backpack.
I was able to charge my phone and even a friend’s device at the same time. The fast charging feature was especially useful; I loved how quickly it powered up my phone from the USB-C port.
While using it, I noticed the dual flashlights were great for late-night activities. The charger is built tough too, which is important when you’re out in nature. I felt confident it could handle some rough conditions like rain and dirt.
On the downside, the solar charging aspect was slower than I expected. Even on sunny days, it didn’t charge my devices as fast as I hoped. I found that it performed best when I had an outlet to plug it into first.
Overall, it’s a solid investment for outdoor lovers who want a reliable backup power source.
Tranmix Solar Charger Power Bank
I found the Tranmix solar charger to be a solid choice for outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Large 25000mAh capacity for multiple charges
- Four solar panels speed up charging
- Durable and waterproof design
Cons
- Can be heavy to carry
- Solar charging is slow without direct sunlight
- Initial wall charging takes time
I recently took the Tranmix solar charger on a camping trip. Its 25000mAh capacity impressed me because it charged my phone several times.
I was especially pleased that I could charge both my phone and a tablet while on the go. Having those extra charges made my outdoor experience much smoother.
The four foldable solar panels are great. When I sat it under full sunlight, it charged at a decent pace. However, I realized that it only works best when the sun is shining bright. On cloudy days, you might need to rely more on wall charging, which isn’t always ideal when you’re in the middle of nature.
Another standout feature is its rugged design. I’ve dropped it a few times without any issues, and the waterproof cover gives me peace of mind when camping near water. Plus, I found the LED flashlight handy during late-night hikes.
BLAVOR Solar Charger
I found the BLAVOR Solar Charger to be a reliable option for keeping my devices powered during camping trips.
Pros
- Charges multiple devices at once.
- Fast charging capabilities.
- Includes useful features like a flashlight and compass.
Cons
- A bit bulky for some packs.
- Solar charging can be slow.
- Instructions could be clearer.
Using the BLAVOR Solar Charger on my recent camping trip was a smart choice. The solar panels folded out easily and offered a great way to harness sunlight.
I was impressed by its ability to charge my phone multiple times before needing a recharge itself. With a 20,000mAh battery, it powered my iPhone and even my friend’s Samsung without any issues.
The fast charging option saved me a lot of time. I noticed I could plug in my devices and not wait long for them to get back to a usable level. The USB-C and QC3.0 ports make charging quicker than most power banks I’ve used.
Having the built-in flashlight was a bonus during the nights. I toggled between the different brightness levels easily, which helped when searching for items in my tent. The compass also came in handy when navigating my way back to camp after exploring the trails.
The durability of the charger stood out, too. It felt sturdy and could handle some bumps without damage.
Sudrov Solar Charger Power Bank
This charger is great for outdoor adventures, keeping my devices powered up when I need them most.
Pros
- Large capacity of 42800mAh, charges devices multiple times.
- Built-in cables eliminate the need to carry extra wires.
- Durable and weather-resistant for rough outdoor use.
Cons
- The instruction manual could be clearer.
- It can take time to fully charge via solar power.
- Heavier than some other portable chargers.
During my recent trip to Burning Man, I relied heavily on the Sudrov Solar Charger Power Bank. Its capacity is impressive, allowing me to charge my smartphone several times over the week.
I appreciated the convenience of not having to carry extra charging cables since it comes with built-in connectors.
Using it was mostly hassle-free. The wireless charging feature worked seamlessly with my phone; I just placed it on the pad, and it began charging right away. I also liked the dual LED flashlights, which were helpful during night walks around the campsite.
However, I found the instruction manual a bit hard to follow at times, which led to some confusion. It can take longer to recharge the bank fully using solar power, especially on cloudy days. Despite these minor issues, I would recommend this solar charger for anyone needing reliable power in outdoor settings.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right solar charger for camping can be simple. Here are some tips to help me decide.
Power Output
I need to look at the power output in watts. A higher wattage means faster charging for my devices. For phones, chargers with 10-20 watts work well.
Size and Weight
Since I’ll be hiking or traveling, the size and weight of the charger matter. I prefer lightweight and compact models. They should fit easily in my backpack without adding much weight.
Solar Panel Type
Panels come in different types. I focus on monocrystalline panels for their efficiency. They work better in low light and need less space.
Battery Capacity
If I want to charge devices later, I look for a charger with a built-in battery. The battery capacity should be enough to store power. A capacity of around 10,000mAh is a good start.
Durability
Camping can be tough, so I check the durability of the charger. It should be water-resistant and able to handle rough conditions. This way, I won’t worry about it breaking easily.
USB Ports
Finally, I check the number of USB ports. Having multiple ports lets me charge more devices at once. This is great for when I’m camping with friends or family.
