Guide: How to Choose the Right Portable Solar Panel for Outdoor Adventures?

1. Nominal power

This physical characteristic measures a solar panel's ability to produce electricity under optimal sunlight conditions.

Based on the power of the panel (measured in kW – kilowatts), you can determine the charging speed of your electronic device and the amount of time needed for a full charge. To calculate this, it's quite simple.

Let’s use an example to clarify. For a mobile phone, the battery typically varies between 4 and 5 amps per hour. If your solar panel can deliver 1.2 amps per hour (like the Sunslice Fusion Flex 6, for example), you can expect approximately 3.5 hours for a full charge of your phone if it’s off and charging under good weather conditions (minimal or no clouds). If the phone is on, the charging time will likely be longer.

Some apps for phones (also available for tablets and other electronic devices) allow you to know the charging speed of your device depending on the port it’s plugged into. On Android, for instance, the "Ampere" or "Charge Meter" apps can provide this data, while "Ampere Lite" is available on Apple devices (but this list is not exhaustive). These apps can help you compare the charging time yourself when using your panel in clear weather versus cloudy or rainy conditions.

It’s also recommended not to charge your electronic devices directly from a solar panel. It’s better to use an external battery, which you recharge with the solar panel and then use to charge your phone, tablet, drone, etc. This is because the power sources inside solar panels may not have circuits to regulate the electrical flow to your devices, which could potentially cause damage.

2. Batteries and their storage capacity 

Some solar panels come with a storage battery, which can either be integrated into the panel or be separate. However, whether you choose one with a built-in battery or not, it's always wise to have one with you for the reasons mentioned earlier.

There are two types of solar chargers that can accompany you in addition to the solar panel itself. These are quite popular and may suit your needs and activities:

1. The "classic" solar panel, which allows you to charge your external battery in advance, leaving your panel in your camper van or at home, and taking just the battery when you go hiking or engage in any activity. While a panel doesn't take up much space, it’s always nice to free up more room on a long outdoor trip.

2. The panel with an integrated battery or portable solar battery (like the Sunslice Photon - 4000 mAh), which is connected to a powerbank-type battery and lets you generate energy as soon as the battery runs out. With this, it’s easy to accumulate solar energy and convert it into electrical energy for storage, to use later.

If you want an idea of a battery's capacity when purchasing your solar panel with a battery, simply compare it with your mobile phone battery, which is usually indicated in mAh (milliampere-hour) or Ah (ampere-hour). Typically, the capacity of a battery for such devices ranges between 1,300 and 5,000 mAh.

As for battery technology, it is constantly improving and varies greatly depending on what you’re looking for (in terms of capacity and efficiency, size, weight, etc.). In fact, the capacity of the battery and the width of your solar panel will determine the overall charging efficiency.

3. Output power

1. The output of a solar panel is an important factor to consider when making your choice because it must match the input voltage of your electronic device or external battery.
2. Although most portable solar panels today are capable of charging small electronic devices (such as smartphones and tablets), not all are necessarily able to provide enough power to charge a laptop battery. So, it’s important to consider this detail in advance to avoid surprises during your trip.
3. If you're looking for a solar panel to charge small devices, you should be satisfied with an output power of 5V. However, if you're looking for a portable battery to charge larger devices such as laptops, you'll need an output capacity between 12V and 24V.
4. In essence, the choice of power depends on how you intend to use it: if you're going on a hike, biking, or traveling in a camper van, the weight you carry could tire you out over time, making it a key factor in your decision. If you're wondering what weight has to do with this, it’s because the higher the power of the solar panel, the heavier it tends to be (and if it has a built-in battery, that adds extra weight).
5. If your panel is intended for daily use, you should look for models around 40W (which typically weigh between 200 and 600g, depending on the brand and whether there's a battery). This should be sufficient if you only need to charge small devices. For instance, with this kind of power, you can recharge your phone 1 to 4 times.
6. If you're planning to use it for a camper van or RV trip, you can opt for a panel with a power of 80W (weighing around 2kg) or even consider more powerful models of 200W (about 5kg). With such devices (like the Sunslice Fusion 100), it's possible to charge multiple devices simultaneously (ranging from small to larger devices like phones, drones, or laptops). Moreover, the weight is less of an issue since it's easier to transport in a car or van than when you're traveling on foot.

4. Connectors, Adapters and Other Options

Today, almost all portable solar panels are designed to recharge at least one mobile phone. To do this, the panel must be equipped with at least one standard USB-A 5V/1A port (commonly referred to as USB Type A) to plug in the USB cables you already use for wall outlets.

However, be careful with connectors: on some portable models, you may need a USB-C output, while other devices might require USB-A, USB-B, or different connectors.

Also, keep in mind that the charging speed may be slower than with the original charger when plugged into an outlet.

Depending on the type of panel you have, your connector needs will vary.

If you have a solar panel without an integrated battery, make sure to check the output connector it has. There are several types of connectors available, and you can choose based on what will be most useful for your needs and the devices you're using.

If it's a solar charger or a panel with an integrated battery, all necessary connectors for recharging are generally included.

Some solar panels come with smart charging features that help prevent overvoltage risks and protect your devices' batteries once they're fully charged.

Others allow you to activate the charging of your battery or devices directly when they're exposed to sunlight. Some even provide real-time information on the current being delivered by the panel, depending on the sunlight levels.

 Choosing your solar panel based on your needs and activities 

 1. The carging time can vary depending on the season, weather, activites

First of all, it’s important to know that photovoltaic cells only convert 15 to 20% of the solar rays received due to energy losses. This explains why the charging time may seem a bit long.

It can also vary and be shorter or longer depending on the weather: of course, your devices will charge faster when it's sunny compared to when the sky is cloudy or, worse, when it’s raining. For example, to charge a mobile phone with a 15W solar panel, it will charge in about 2 hours if the sky is clear, and between 3 to 5 hours if it’s cloudy.

The time of day will also play a big role: the charging time will differ if it’s noon versus 5:30 PM when the sun is setting, as the level of sunlight will be lower at that time.

The season during which you use the panel should also be considered, as it will affect the amount of sunlight the panel can receive.

 2. In what situations can a solar panel be used ?Dans quelles situations utiliser un panneau solaire ?

2. n what situations can a solar panel be used?

No matter what activities you want to do or the places you want to visit—whether on foot, by car, on a lake, or at sea—a solar panel can be used in various situations:

• Hiking or trekking: Attached to your backpack, it's a great way to charge your devices while you're on the move, although a solar panel works better when stationary and well-exposed. Our advice? Make sure to fully charge your devices the night before you leave (as well as your power bank if you use one) to avoid any surprises on the road, especially if the sky darkens unexpectedly.

• Camping: Whether placed on your tent or directly on the ground, it will capture energy while you're busy with other tasks.

• Cycling: Just like hiking, you can easily attach it to your backpack so it can collect sunlight while you fully enjoy your activity.

But also in daily life, at the beach, on the sea, or during a camper van trip... You can easily gain energy, no matter what outdoor activity you're planning. Some solar panels are waterproof, can work in extreme heat or cold... In short, you just need to choose the panel that best suits your needs when you purchase.

However, if you only plan to be out for a weekend or a short period, it's likely that an external battery will be sufficient. However, once that battery runs out, it becomes a weight you have to carry with you, despite being useless.

In conclusion 

Whether you're going on a trek, kayaking, or traveling in a camper van, a solar panel is incredibly useful once it accompanies you on your adventures.

It can charge your mobile phone, camera battery, or even your laptop depending on the total capacity of your solar panel, making you more independent and allowing you to travel without worrying about running out of battery. You'll be able to keep using your GPS and stay on track, even in challenging conditions.

When choosing your solar panel during your purchase, think about the devices you'll need to charge the most and the conditions you'll be in. For example, if you're near a lake or the sea, consider selecting one that is at least somewhat waterproof. If you're traveling in a camper van and have the budget, you can afford to choose a solar panel with a higher charging capacity, which will be heavier. If you're traveling on foot, smaller panels should suffice to charge your small devices.

Also, make sure to bring an external battery to stay fully autonomous and have power, even in the middle of the night or during heavy rain.

In short, a solar panel will improve your quality of life as an adventurer, especially if you're used to traveling but find yourself dependent on power outlets along your journey. With a solar panel, you’ll never face this problem again !