Want to escape the hustle and bustle of your everyday life? If you’re like me, you’ll enjoy taking a much-deserved break to connect with nature. One of the easiest and most exciting ways to do that is by backpacking. And whenever I’m out there, I’ll have tons of gadgets with me so I can navigate better, take millions of pictures, and listen to my favorite playlists. But I can’t do all of that if they run out of batteries. This is exactly why I always bring the best backpacking solar charger with me. As you may already know, it uses the energy from the sun to power those gadgets. If you’re also looking for one, you’re at the right place. Below are some of the top-rated options on the market that I’ve tested. With them, you’ll never have to worry about running out of juice anymore. So, why don’t you take a look at my list?
By the way, have you read our list of the best solar backpacks and solar lanterns for camping? I have a feeling you’ll love them, too!
Table of contents
- UYAYOHU Solar Power Bank
- BLAVOR Portable Solar Charger
- X-DRAGON Monocrystalline Portable Solar Panel
- FlexSolar Solar Panel Charger
- BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank
- Nekteck Solar Panel Charger
- ECEEN Solar Charger
- Anker 625 Solar Panel
- Ryno Tuff Solar Charger
- SunJack 15W Solar Panel Charger
- Goal Zero Nomad 10
- Hiluckey Solar Charger
- BigBlue 3
- Our Verdict!
- How to Choose The Best Backpacking Solar Chargers
- Do solar chargers work for backpacking?
- Can a solar charger damage the battery?
- What are the advantages of solar panel chargers?
UYAYOHU Solar Power Bank
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The first item on this list of the best solar chargers for backpacking is the UYAYOHU Solar Power Bank. Compact and reliable, this 40,000mAh power bank ensures your gadgets will never run out of juice. When I first tested this power bank, what made me excited was the fact that I was able to charge up to four different devices simultaneously.
Just like many other solar chargers, this power bank also has a smart IC chip that provides you with the most efficient charging experience. That way, you’ll never overcharge your gadgets. Additionally, it also comes with an LED flashlight, which is great for nighttime and can provide up to 200 hours of illumination.
Pros
- It’s an affordable power bank.
- The battery capacity is amazing.
- This device is dustproof and waterproof.
Cons
- The quality of the flashlight isn’t the best.
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BLAVOR Portable Solar Charger
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Spoiler: this is one of the two options from BLAVOR on this list. The BLAVOR Portable Solar Charger is affordable yet its performance is amazing. This 10W solar charger may be low in power compared to the rest, but its conversion efficiency is 28%, which is significantly higher than many other competing brands.
Additionally, this solar charger is only 0.81 lb, making it one of the most lightweight options ever. Also, what’s even more amazing is that it can be folded down as small as a handbag. What’s more, this durable solar charger is waterproof and dustproof. Considering its price tag, this product sure is great.
Pros
- It’s one of the cheapest options on the market.
- It’s compatible with most gadgets.
- I’m a huge fan of its compact and lightweight design.
Cons
- This solar charger isn’t as powerful as some of the rest.
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X-DRAGON Monocrystalline Portable Solar Panel
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When talking about the best backpacking solar charger, it’s a must to mention the X-DRAGON Monocrystalline Portable Solar Panel. This is a compact, folding solar charger with quite impressive charging power. This 20W solar charger is strong enough to power your phone and other 5V gadgets. Plus, with the built-in intelligent IC chip, it can adjust the current and voltage accordingly.
I’ve tested this solar panel before, and its durability awed me. It comes with Oxford fabric that offers superb weather resistance, making it the perfect choice for most outdoor activities. In addition to that, it also comes complete with four hooks and a micro USB cable, so you don’t have to get them separately.
Pros
- The USB port is inside, keeping it safe from the elements.
- This foldable solar panel is lightweight and compact.
- It’s more efficient than many of its competitors.
Cons
- Some people think it’s a tad pricey.
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FlexSolar Solar Panel Charger
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Lightweight and flexible, what’s not to like about the FlexSolar Solar Panel Charger? I’m a huge fan of its design. Weighing only 0.99 lbs, it’s extremely lightweight and easy to carry around. Since it’s foldable, I was able to squeeze it into my backpack during testing. Plus, with two carabiners, you also have the option to hang it on your hot tent.
In addition, this charger is extremely easy to use. With a built-in USB-A output port, this item lets you connect your phone or tablet to the charger. Plus, the super-duper intelligent chip can detect that device is being connected and adjust the current accordingly, so you can fully charge your gadget faster.
Pros
- This rugged solar charger is weatherproof.
- It’s affordable without sacrificing durability.
- It’s compatible with the latest gadgets.
Cons
- The power is only 15W.
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BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank
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Most Compact. Does the idea of carrying a solar panel sound like a hassle? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Introducing you to the BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank. As the name suggests, this is a solar-powered power bank. One of its biggest selling points is its ability to charge your phone up to 50% faster than the rest. Not to mention, it’s compatible with almost all devices. During testing, I tried charging an iPhone 13, Samsung S23, and Huawei Mate 50 Pro, and all of them were compatible.
Though small, this power bank is a beast. It’s specifically designed to take the beating. Aside from being waterproof, it’s also dustproof and shockproof. Apart from that, there’s also another useful extra in the form of a flashlight. So, if you need some source of light during the night and want to save your phone’s battery, simply turn on the flashlight. Speaking of power banks, check out these portable chargers as well!
Pros
- It has a waterproof rating of IPX5.
- There are five different colors to choose from.
- It’s a versatile choice for many outdoor activities.
Cons
- For some people, the flashlight isn’t that bright.
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Nekteck Solar Panel Charger
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The Nekteck Solar Panel Charger is another cheap option that surprisingly performs well. Of course, it isn’t fair to compare it with the other more well-known competitors. However, for its price tag, I’m sure you’ll be impressed. For one, it’s tough enough to withstand the abuse of backpacking. In addition to that, it’s only 1.43 lbs.
With two free carabiner clips, attaching this solar charger to your backpack is nothing but a breeze. That’s not all! Also included is a zippered pouch that you can use to keep your phone. And for efficiency, this solar charger can charge up to two devices at once. However, you should note that the lighting cable isn’t included.
Pros
- One of the most affordable options on the market.
- It’s compatible with most gadgets.
- Though lightweight, it’s still weatherproof.
Cons
- It’s from a generic brand.
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ECEEN Solar Charger
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Best Budget. Extremely cheap, the ECEEN Solar Charger is perfect for budget-conscious backpackers. Since it’s affordable, I initially didn’t have much expectations for this item. Luckily, I was proven wrong. After testing it, I now know that it’s totally possible to get a cheap but also reliable solar charger. For one, this 13W solar charger comes with dual USB ports and can charge two phones simultaneously.
Additionally, the durability of this solar charger for backpacking is also worth praising. It’s not only durable but also waterproof, so you don’t have to panic when it rains out of nowhere. Plus, I was able to easily strap it to my backpack since it comes with four hooks. You just have to note that in low-light or cloudy conditions, this solar panel won’t be able to charge.
Pros
- It’s a highly portable and lightweight option.
- This solar charger is compatible with most phones.
- It comes with four hooks so you can hang it on the backpack.
Cons
- Its performance in low-light conditions isn’t the best.
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Anker 625 Solar Panel
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Perfect for most outdoor activities, the Anker 625 Solar Panel is truly a powerhouse. Yes; it costs way more than many other options on this list. However, what you’ll get is also worth the money. According to the official website, this product is able to convert up to 23% of sunlight and turn them into solar energy. I was really impressed with this solar panel during testing as it also worked even when it was cloudy.
Since it costs hundreds of dollars, it’s only normal for this solar panel to have unmatched durability. Yep; it’s both scratch and weather-resistant. No matter where your next adventure takes you, this solar panel is always ready for them. Best of all, it’s also backed by a generous 18-month warranty.
Pros
- The kickstand is easy to adjust.
- In addition to that, the kickstand also offers additional storage space.
- It can charge two devices at once.
Cons
- It’s on the heavier side.
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Ryno Tuff Solar Charger
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At just 1.06 lbs, the Ryno Tuff Solar Charger is one of the most lightweight choices I’ve ever found. As a backpacker who loves to keep the weight as minimum as possible, this is a huge deal. And if it’s not charming enough, this reasonably priced solar charger can also charge your gadgets faster than expected. I have an iPhone 13, and during testing, it could fully charge my phone in a little over two hours.
This solar charger features three solar panels with 21W of power. While its charging speed is ridiculously fast, it still manages to keep its size compact. Also, with two USB ports, it was able to charge my phone and tablet at the same time. Also included are carabiner hooks and a micro USB cable.
Pros
- This solar charger has a weatherproof construction.
- It’s one of the most lightweight options out there.
- Also included is a waterproof casing.
Cons
- No battery bank included.
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SunJack 15W Solar Panel Charger
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Best Durability. What we have here is the SunJack 15W Solar Panel Charger, a rugged and durable panels-only option. This product features ETFE-coated solar panels. For those who have no idea what ETFE is, it’s basically plastic that’s known for its superb weather resistance and flexibility. This makes the solar panels more resistant to the element and more efficient. Pretty cool, isn’t it?
Moreover, this item comes with two USB ports as well as a built-in IC chip. Thanks to this chip, I was able to charge my phone faster than I predicted. The chip can identify the device you’re charging and maximizes the charging speed accordingly. Also, during testing, I could charge up to two different devices at once. Make sure to watch this YouTube video to learn more about this solar charger!
Pros
- When it comes to durability, this solar charger is hard to beat.
- Thanks to the carabiner, you can attach it to your backpack easily.
- It’s backed by a one-year hassle-free warranty.
Cons
- Since there’s no kickstand, it’s challenging to position this solar charger toward the sun.
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Goal Zero Nomad 10
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From hiking to camping and backpacking, outdoor enthusiasts can always rely on the Goal Zero Nomad 10. There are so many things to like about this solar charger, but my favorite is its unique design. This item is designed with a built-in kickstand. With that, during testing, I was able to position the solar panel towards the sun at the perfect angle. This is such a smart and convenient feature.
In addition to that, this is one durable solar charger. Made of rugged materials, you can confidently strap it to your backpack or even tent. Don’t worry; at 1.2 lbs, it’s also lightweight. Also, if the 10W variant isn’t enough for you, you can get the 20W or even the 50W variant. From your smartphone to your camera, it’s always ready to give them that extra juice. Check out the full specifications here!
Pros
- It’s one of the cheapest options currently on the market.
- As a phone charger, it can charge up to three devices simultaneously.
- I love how it’s compatible with most devices.
Cons
- Unfortunately, it has a slow solar recharge.
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Hiluckey Solar Charger
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Best Value for Money. Compared to many of its competitors, the Hiluckey Solar Charger is more affordable, making it a nice option for budget-conscious backpackers who don’t want to sacrifice a lot. With a whopping 25,000 mAh battery capacity, this solar charger also doubles as a power bank. I’ve used it before, and after I fully charged it, it was able to charge up to seven devices.
That’s not all! Another extra that I appreciate is the built-in flashlight, which I’m sure will come in handy when during nighttime. The icing on the cake are the four 5W solar panels. While their wattage is low, I still think they provide enough battery, especially for emergency situations. If you want something affordable that doesn’t let you down, this should be your go-to option.
Pros
- It’s one of the cheapest options currently on the market.
- It also doubles as a power bank and can charge up to three devices simultaneously.
- I love how it’s compatible with most devices.
Cons
- Unfortunately, it has a slow solar recharge.
Buy on:
BigBlue 3
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Best Overall. Never settle for less! The BigBlue 3 is a favorite among backpackers, including me. This is an efficient solar charger that doesn’t cost you arms and legs. This item features five solar panels that offer 28W of power, which is great for charging multiple devices at once. Also, based on my experience, I think it’s one of the fastest charging kits available right now. During testing, I was able to fully charge my iPhone 14 in almost 4 hours.
“While there’s a sea of solar chargers that don’t work as well as they claim to be, the BigBlue 3 isn’t one of them. This is a reliable solar charger that feels solid and performs well. It’s the best charging solution for any type of backpacker.”
WOW Travel
Some people may wonder whether this is the most lightweight solar charger. While it’s not the “most”, I do think it’s lightweight enough for most people. At just 1.28 lbs, I was able to have a long-distance backpacking trip with this item without feeling like my back was about to break. Last but not least, aside from the Black variant, it’s also available in Gray.
Pros
- This solar charger comes with dual USB outputs.
- With a digital ammeter, it can show you how fast the device is charging.
- Even in minimal sunlight conditions, it can still charge the devices pretty well.
Cons
- It can feel a bit bulky.
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Our Verdict!
With everything it has to offer, I think the BigBlue 3 is the best overall choice on this list. It performs well in most weather conditions and has all the features you need. However, the rest are also worth considering. I’ve categorized some of them according to the following criteria, so make sure to give them a look!
- Best Value for Money: Hiluckey Solar Charger
- Best Durability: SunJack 15W Solar Panel Charger
- Best Budget: ECEEN Solar Charger
- Most Compact: BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank
How to Choose The Best Backpacking Solar Chargers
As you can see from the list above, there are so many great solar chargers available today. However, choosing the right one is harder than you think. There are some important features to consider, which include:
Portability
Just like when you’re choosing the best solar chargers for RV batteries, you should also consider the portability of your backpacking solar charger. Since you’re going to carry your solar charger on your upcoming trip, you should make sure it’s not only lightweight but also compact. It shouldn’t take up too much space and be a hassle to carry around.
Power Output
The power output is measured in Watts, and it tells you how quickly you can fully charge your gadgets. The bigger the power output is, the faster you can charge your phone or tablet. So, if you want to charge bigger devices, you should look for a solar charger with a bigger power output.
Compatibility
Of course, the solar charger you’re getting should also be compatible with your gadgets. This is important as some chargers are only compatible with certain devices or brands.
Durability
Backpacking can be extremely tough, and making sure your gear can withstand this activity is important. That said, your solar charger should be able to withstand the elements. Thankfully, many options out there are waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof.
Do solar chargers work for backpacking?
Yes! They’re essential for long backpacking adventures as they allow you to recharge your devices like your phone or handheld GPS.
Can a solar charger damage the battery?
You don’t have to worry. This can only happen if you overcharge your device. So, whether you’re using a power bank or solar charger, make sure that you don’t overcharge your smartphone.
What are the advantages of solar panel chargers?
There are many! To name a few, they use a renewable source of energy, which is the sun. In addition to that, they’re also durable, able to charge multiple devices, and a great alternative when you can’t find electricity.
