There’s nothing quite like getting out on an adventure—be it a day hike, a weekend in the woods, or a thru-hike across miles of remote trails. With portable solar energy, you can stay powered on the trail.
But no matter how far off the grid you go, staying powered up is still essential. Battery powered devices are used for navigations, communications, safety, and photography.
That’s where portable solar energy comes into play — dependable, lightweight, and eco-friendly, solar is a way to stay connected and secure.
Why Portable Solar Energy Matters More Than Ever
Portable solar solutions are experiencing significant growth. The global portable solar panel market was valued at approximately $1.25 billion in 2023 and is projected to surpass $7.37 billion by 2034, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.5% from 2024 to 2034 (Precedence Research).
Growing interest among outdoor enthusiasts: Although data specific to multi-day hikers is sparse, broader market trends suggest increased interest in portable solar chargers among outdoor enthusiasts.
This growing interest stems from the need for reliable power sources in challenging outdoor conditions, such as for safe communication, GPS navigation, and energy storage.
The demand for portable solar power solutions aligns with the increasing emphasis on renewable energy and the necessity for dependable off-grid power solutions.
How Portable Solar Chargers Work on the Trail
You’re hours into a remote hike when the battery on your phone or GPS runs low.
Do not despair—just unfold your solar panel, position it in the sun, and begin charging.
Most hikers use these panels to first charge a power bank and then their device — this way, the voltage stays stable, and the electronics are protected from sudden changes in power from the solar panel.
Benefits of Portable Solar for Hiking
- Lightweight & Packable: Modern models are specially designed for hiking — some panels weigh under a pound and fit flat in your bag.
- Easy to Use: Most don’t need setup — all you need is sunlight and a USB cable.
- Environmentally Sustainable: By utilizing the rays of the sun in your setup: You stay self-sufficient and less dependent upon to non-renewable batteries that need to be produced and/or transported.
Best Hiking Solar Panel Setups by Trip Length
Depending on how long you’ll be on the trail and how many devices you carry, your power setup will vary. Here are examples for different hiking styles:
| Model | Wattage | Weight | Ports | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BioLite SolarPanel 5+ | 5W | 13.8 oz | USB-A, battery | Built-in 3,200mAh battery, kickstand | Day hikes, light use |
| Anker SOLIX PS30 | 24W | 1.1 lbs | USB-A, USB-C PD | Fast charging, foldable, rugged | Multi-day trips |
| BigBlue 28W | 28W | 1.3 lbs | 3 USB-A | High efficiency, wide compatibility | Extended backpacking |
| Goal Zero Nomad 10 | 10W | 1.2 lbs | USB-A | Durable design, modular | Base camps, essential gear |
| Nekteck 21W Solar Panel | 21W | 1.1 lbs | 2 USB-A | Affordable, highly rated | Budget-conscious hikers |
Pro Tip: For consistent charging, pair your panel with a quality power bank (10,000–20,000mAh). The Anker PowerCore 20000 or Nitecore NB10000 are lightweight favorites.
How to Choose the Right Portable Solar Panel
⚡ Wattage vs. Weight: Finding the Balance
Choose wattage based on what you need to charge:
- 5–10W: Small devices (phones, watches), good for sunny day hikes.
- 15–25W: Phones, GPS, power banks—ideal for multi-day hikes.
- 25W+: Larger setups or multiple devices, great for longer expeditions or group use.
If you want to find out more about How Many Watts Do You Need for Solar Power Outdoor Activities?
☀️ Understanding Panel Efficiency (Monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline)
Monocrystalline panels are preferred for hiking—they’re:
- More efficient (20%+ conversion rate)
- Perform better in low-light/shade
- Lighter for the output
Look for this type if you want better results under tree cover or cloudy skies. Which Solar Panels Are Best?
🌧️ Durability: What IP Rating Do You Need?
Outdoors = exposure. Look for:
- IP65 or higher: Water-resistant against rain and dust
- Reinforced edges or grommets: For secure attachment to backpacks
“From experience, we find that panels with reinforced grommets and flexible construction last longer on rough trails.”
🔌 Essential Output Ports (USB-C PD Matters!)
Make sure your panel supports:
- USB-C PD (Power Delivery): Fast charging for modern phones and cameras
- Multiple ports: Ideal if you want to charge multiple items or share with a hiking partner
Real-World Charging Scenario
Let’s say you’re hiking 8 hours a day:
- Phone (5W x 2 hours): 10Wh
- GPS unit (2W x 5 hours): 10Wh
- Headlamp (rechargeable): 5Wh
Total Estimate: ~25Wh/day
With a 20W panel in good sunlight, you can typically generate 60–80Wh per day, more than enough to charge a power bank and keep essentials running.
Practical Tips for Using Portable Panels on the Trail
- Panel → Power Bank → Device: Always charge your bank first. It stabilizes current and avoids overheating sensitive gear.
- Angle is Everything: Flat panel on your backpack? Not ideal. For real results, take breaks and angle your panel toward the sun.
- Clean Your Panel: Dust, sand, or even sunscreen can reduce output. Wipe gently with a microfiber cloth.
“A common mistake is strapping panels flat; angling them significantly improves charging speed—even if only for 15-minute breaks.”
FAQ: Portable Solar for Hiking
Can I charge devices while hiking?
Yes, but only in full sun and with the panel facing the sun. Performance drops if shaded or at a bad angle. Charging power banks while hiking is more effective.
How long does it take to charge a phone?
With a 10–20W panel in full sun, expect 2–3 hours to fully charge a smartphone through a power bank. Direct-to-phone charging takes longer and is less stable.
Are portable panels waterproof?
Most are water-resistant, not waterproof. Look for at least IP65 for trail use. Never submerge them or leave them in puddles.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to be cut off from tech just because you’re off the grid. With a good solar setup, you can stay safe, oriented, and connected—while enjoying the peace of the wild.
Portable solar energy gives you independence without weight or waste. Whether you’re heading out for a day or planning a full-blown adventure, the right gear makes all the difference.
