Published on: March 31, 2023
Written by Ferris Gregor / Fact-checked by Nova Scarlett
In the age of modern technology, staying connected is crucial even when we venture into the great outdoors. Backpackers often rely on electronic devices for navigation, communication, and entertainment during their trips. But what happens when your device’s battery runs out of juice, and you’re miles away from the nearest power outlet? Enter the solar power bank. This innovative gadget harnesses the power of the sun to charge your devices, making it the perfect companion for off-grid adventures.
Here, we’ll explore the benefits of using a solar power bank for backpacking, key features to consider, and some of the best models available on the market.
What to Look for in a Backpacking Solar Power Bank
Portability and Weight
When it comes to backpacking, every ounce matters. Look for a solar power bank that’s lightweight and compact enough to fit in your backpack without adding too much bulk.
Capacity and Charging Speed
Solar power banks come in various capacities, measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). Opt for a model with a higher capacity to ensure you have enough power to charge your devices multiple times. Additionally, consider the charging speed of the power bank, as faster charging will help you make the most of available sunlight.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Backpacking can be rough on your gear, so it’s essential to choose a solar power bank that can withstand the rigors of the trail. Look for models with rugged construction and weather resistance to ensure your power bank continues working even in adverse conditions.
Compatibility With Devices
Make sure the solar power bank you choose is compatible with your devices. Most models come with multiple USB ports and various connectors, but double-check to ensure you can charge all of your essential gadgets.
Our Recommended Top 5 Backpacking Solar Power Bank- Reviews
1. QiSa 38800mAh Backpacking Solar Power Bank
- Brand: QiSa
- Manufacturer: DonGuan Xionel Electronic Technology Co., Ltd
- Color: Black
This solar charger is amazing! It has a 38800mAh capacity and can output 5V3.1A of power, making it perfect for charging phones, tablets, and other devices. Plus, it has two USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at the same time.
Why We Like
- The solar charger is an eco-friendly product that helps to save the environment.
- It is a very useful product as it can be used to charge mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
- The solar power bank has dual 5V3.1A outputs which makes it very convenient to use.
- It is a very portable product and can be carried around easily.
- The solar charger is very affordable and is a great value for money.
Our Recommendations
I love this solar charger! It’s really handy to have when I’m on the go and need to charge my phone. The dual outputs are great for charging two devices at once. And, it charges pretty quickly too!
Pros
- Large capacity battery
- Solar panels
- Charges phone well
- Convenient and efficient
- Good quality
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
2. Hiluckey 25000mAh, Outdoor Portable Power Bank
- Brand: Hiluckey
- Manufacturer: Dongguan Jili Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd.
- Color: Orange
- Dimensions: Height: 1.38 Inches Width: 3.54 Inches Length: 6.18 Inches
This solar charger is awesome! It’s really helped me out when my phone has died and I’m far from an outlet. It charges quickly and holds its charge for a long time. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good, reliable solar charger.
Why We Like
- The product is very portable and can be easily carried around.
- It has a high capacity of 25000mAh which means it can charge multiple devices at once or charge a device multiple times before needing to be recharged.
- It has 4 solar panels which make it efficient in charging devices even under low light conditions.
- The product comes with a LED flashlight that can be used in case of emergencies.
- It has a warranty of 18 months, making it a reliable purchase.
Our Recommendations
This charger is amazing! It’s super lightweight and portable, but also powerful enough to charge my phone multiple times. I love that it has four different charging ports too, so I can charge multiple devices at the same time.
The solar panel is a great feature too – it means I can always keep my devices charged, even when there’s no outlet available.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Welluilt
- Solar option
- Convenient
- Good for outdoor activities
Cons
- Takes a long time to charge
- Sensitive to heat
- No way to hook it to stuff
3. ERRBBIC 20000mAh Portable Solar Power Bank
- Brand: ERRBBIC
- Manufacturer: Shenzhen Fashiontec Technology Co., Ltd
- Color: Red-20000mAh
- Dimensions: Height: 0.67 Inches Width: 3.0 Inches Length: 5.7 Inches
- Weight: 0.55 Pounds
This solar charger is amazing! It’s so portable and easy to use. The best part is that it’s waterproof, so I don’t have to worry about it getting damaged if I’m caught in the rain. With 20000mAh of power, it can charge my phone several times over, and it’s really helpful in emergencies.
Why We Like
- This solar charger is very powerful, with a 20000mAh capacity that can charge most devices multiple times.
- It is also waterproof and shockproof, making it rugged and durable for outdoor use.
- The solar panel is highly efficient and able to recharge the power bank in just a few hours of sunlight.
- It has a built-in LED flashlight which can be used in emergencies or for camping.
- Finally, it comes with a 2-year warranty for peace of mind.
Our Recommendations
This solar charger is awesome! I’ve used it on multiple camping trips and it’s really come in handy. It charges my phone quickly and keeps it going all day long. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a reliable solar charger.
Pros
- Solar charging
- Handy for emergency situations
- Compact and easy to pack
- Comes fully charged
- Useful for traveling
Cons
- Slow charging
4. Tranmix 25000mAh, Portable Solar Phone Charger
- Brand: Tranmix
- Manufacturer: Dongguan Jili Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd.
- Color: Orange
- Dimensions: Height: 1.18 Inches Width: 3.37 Inches Length: 6.1 Inches
- Weight: 1.1243575362 Pounds `
The Tranmix Portable Solar Phone Charger is one of the best solar phone chargers on the market. It has a solar panel that can generate up to 25000mAh of power, making it ideal for charging phones and other devices while on the go. The charger also comes with 4 USB ports, so you can charge multiple devices at the same time.
Why We Like
- Solar Charger 25000mAh can charge phones and other devices quickly and efficiently.
- The solar charger is portable and easy to carry around, making it ideal for travel or camping.
- Solar Charger 25000mAh comes with four USB ports, so you can charge multiple devices at the same time.
- The solar charger has a built-in LED light, which can be used as a flashlight in case of emergency.
- Solar Charger 25000mAh is made of durable materials and is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Our Recommendations
This is an amazing solar charger! I’ve never seen one with so much power before. It’s really easy to use and it charges my phone very quickly. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is looking for a good solar charger.
Pros
- Great for travel, camping, and emergency situations
- Good backup battery
- Charges two devices at once
- Sturdy and durable
- Slim and compact design
Cons
- Solar charging is ineffective
5. Hiking, Travel Daypack Packable with 7Watts Solar Panel Charger by ECEEN
- Brand: ECEEN
- Manufacturer: ECEEN ELECTRONIC LIMITED
- Color: Silver
- Dimensions: Height: 20.5 Inches Width: 7.0 Inches Length: 12.6 Inches
- Weight: 1.19 Pounds
This hiking backpack is perfect for travel! It is packable and features a 7Watts solar panel charger. This backpack will make your travels more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable!
Why We Like
- The product is very useful for hikers as it has a 7-watt solar panel charger which can be used to charge phones and other devices while on the go.
- The backpack is also packable, meaning it can be easily stored away when not in use.
- The backpack is comfortable to wear, even when loaded with heavy items.
- The backpack’s straps are adjustable, allowing for a customized fit.
- The backpack comes with a rain cover, providing protection from the elements during inclement weather conditions.
Our Recommendations
This bag is amazing! I went on a 5-day hike with it and never once felt uncomfortable or like the bag was too heavy. Additionally, the solar panel charger was a lifesaver! I highly recommend this backpack to anyone looking for a great hiking backpack.
Pros
- Solar charger works well
- Lightweight and durable
- Good for hiking and outdoor activities
- Can hold a lot of items
- Compact and easy to pack
Cons
- Slow charging
- Charging cable not compatible with iPhone
Are Backpacking Solar Panels Worth it?
Are backpacking solar panels worth it? This is a question that backpackers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts often ask. The answer depends on a number of factors, including the type of solar panel, the size and weight of the panel, the price, and the intended use.
There are two main types of backpacking solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient than polycrystalline panels, but they also tend to be more expensive. Solar panel efficiency is measured in terms of the percentage of sunlight that is converted into electricity.
Higher efficiency means that more sunlight is converted into electricity and less heat is lost. Polycrystalline panels have lower efficiencies (usually about 15-20%), but they are less expensive than monocrystalline panels. The size and weight of the solar panel are important considerations for backpackers.
Larger panels weigh more and take up more space, which can be a problem when carrying a limited amount of gear on your back. However, larger panels will also collect more sunlight and generate more electricity than smaller ones. So if you need to charge multiple devices or you want to be able to run electrical appliances while camping, a larger panel may be worth the extra weight and space.
Solar panel prices vary widely depending on the type, size, and brand. You can find small monocrystalline panels for around $100 or less, while large polycrystalline panels can cost $200 or more. Prices also vary depending on whether you buy a complete kit with everything you need to get started using solar power or just the panel itself.
If you already have batteries to store electricity generated by the solar panel, you may not need to purchase an entire kit. The final consideration is how you plan to use the solar panel while backpacking or camping. If your goal is simply to keep your cell phone charged so you can make emergency calls if necessary, then a small monocrystalline panel should suffice.
How to Maximize the Efficiency of Your Solar Power Bank
Proper Positioning for Optimal Sunlight Exposure
Place your solar power bank in direct sunlight and adjust its angle to maximize the amount of sunlight it receives. Some models come with built-in sundials or kickstands to help with this.
Ensuring Cleanliness of Solar Panels
Dust and dirt can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. Regularly clean the panels with a soft cloth to ensure they’re operating at peak performance.
Charging Multiple Devices Efficiently
If your solar power bank has multiple USB ports, you can charge several devices at once. However, this may slow down the charging speed, so prioritize charging your most critical devices first.
Tips for Preserving Battery Life of Your Devices
To extend the life of your solar power bank, turn off your devices or enable airplane mode while charging to minimize power consumption.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Using a solar power bank not only keeps your devices charged, but it also promotes a more sustainable lifestyle. By harnessing renewable solar energy, you’re reducing your carbon footprint and limiting waste from disposable batteries.
Personal Experiences and Stories
Real-life Accounts of Backpackers Using Solar Power Banks
Many backpackers have shared their experiences of using solar power banks during their off-grid adventures. From keeping their GPS devices charged while navigating remote trails to powering their smartphones for emergency communication, solar power banks have proven to be indispensable tools for these outdoor enthusiasts.
Instances Where Solar Power Banks Saved the Day
There are countless stories of solar power banks coming to the rescue in various situations. For example, one backpacker’s solar power bank helped them maintain contact with their group during a multi-day trek, while another’s power bank provided light during a power outage at a remote cabin.
Learning Experiences and Tips From Seasoned Backpackers
Experienced backpackers have learned that proper planning and care can make all the difference when relying on solar power banks. Some tips include starting each day with a fully charged power bank, utilizing natural breaks to recharge devices, and monitoring weather conditions to optimize charging opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to charge a solar power bank?
The time it takes to charge a solar power bank depends on the panel’s efficiency, available sunlight, and capacity of the power bank. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to charge a power bank under ideal conditions.
Can a solar power bank charge devices on a cloudy day?
Solar power banks can still charge devices on cloudy days, although the charging efficiency may be reduced. In overcast conditions, it’s essential to position the solar panel to maximize the available sunlight.
How to properly maintain and care for a solar power bank?
To ensure your solar power bank remains functional, keep the solar panels clean and free of dust and dirt, store it in a cool, dry place when not in use, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or moisture for extended periods.
Last Assumption
A solar power bank is an invaluable tool for backpackers seeking to stay connected and powered during their off-grid adventures. By considering factors such as portability, capacity, and durability, you can find the perfect solar power bank for your needs. Not only will you enjoy the convenience of readily available power, but you’ll also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle by harnessing the power of the sun. So, make the switch to a solar-powered device today and revolutionize your backpacking experience!
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