3 Best Solar Chargers for Backpacking: Stay Powered Up

When you’re out exploring nature, staying connected can be a challenge, but a good solar charger can make all the difference. Whether it’s the reliable, high-capacity GOODaaa Power Bank with wireless charging and dual flashlights, the versatile BLAVOR solar bank with built-in cables and a 20,000mAh capacity, or the foldable BigBlue panel offering three USB ports and 28W of power, each has its strengths. Prepared to find the perfect fit? Let’s look closer at what these options offer—and what to evaluate before choosing your outdoor power partner.

GOODaaa Power Bank with Wireless Charging, 36000mAh, 4 Cables & 6 Outputs, Fast Charging, Solar Portable Charger with Dual Flashlights & Carabiner

If you like to stay charged while outdoors, the GOODaaa Power Bank is a good choice. It has a big battery — 36,000mAh — so it can charge your phone many times. This makes it perfect for long trips or outdoor adventures.

It has built-in cables for different phones, like Type C, iOS, Micro USB, and USB-A. No need to carry extra cords. Plus, it supports wireless charging. Just put your phone on top, and it starts charging. This works with phones like iPhone 14 or Samsung Galaxy S23.

The power bank also has two flashlights and a tough, waterproof design. That makes it good for outdoor use. You can attach it to your bag with the carabiner for easy carrying.

This power bank is best for people who go outdoors, travel, or want a reliable backup power. It works well with many devices in rough environments.

Advantages:

• Big battery capacity (36,000mAh) to charge devices many times
• Built-in cables and wireless charging for convenience
• Durable, waterproof, and shockproof, with dual flashlights

Disadvantages:

• Because it is large and rugged, it can be heavy and less easy to carry day-to-day
• Charging with solar is slow and depends on sunlight
• Some people may find all the features a lot to keep track of

This power bank can keep your devices charged when you need it most. Its big battery, built-in cables, and tough design make it a smart choice for outdoor adventures.

BLAVOR 45W Power Bank Solar Charger with Built-in Cables, 20000mAh Wireless Portable Battery Pack

The BLAVOR 45W Power Bank Solar Charger is a great choice for people who spend a lot of time outdoors. It has a big 20,000mAh battery. That means it can recharge your phone several times. For example, it can charge an iPhone 16 about four times. It can also charge a Galaxy S24 Ultra nearly 3.6 times. It helps you stay connected even when you’re not near an outlet.

This power bank is built tough. It is waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof. This makes it perfect for rain, drops, or dusty trails. It has rugged materials that keep it safe. The charger offers many ways to power up your devices. It has a fast 45W charger port, wireless charging, and built-in cables. No need to carry extra cables. It also comes with camping tools, which can come in handy during outdoor trips.

The power bank is a good choice for outdoor lovers and backpackers. It is rugged, versatile, and reliable. You can use it to charge many devices during your hike or trip.

Here are some good points about this power bank:

• It has a large 20,000mAh battery that can recharge devices multiple times.
• It is waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof. You can use it in tough outdoor conditions.
• It has many ways to charge your devices: fast charging, wireless, and built-in cables.

But, it does have some downsides:

• It is a bit bulky, so it can take up more space in your pack.
• Solar charging is slower compared to using a wall outlet.
• It is slightly heavier because of its tough build and extra features.

Upgraded BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Solar Charger (5V/4.8A Max), Portable Foldable Solar Panel for Camping

The BigBlue 28W solar charger is a great tool for people who love the outdoors. It is light, foldable, and easy to carry. Weighing only 1.48 pounds, it fits in a backpack and can be clipped onto a bag with included carabiners. This solar panel is made with special high-efficiency N-type solar cells. These cells turn around 25.4% of sunlight into energy. That means it makes more power from the sun, so your devices charge faster.

The solar charger has three ports to power multiple devices at once. It has two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. You can charge phones, tablets, and small gadgets all at the same time. The surface of the panel is designed so it does not cast shadows, which helps it work better even if the sunlight is partly blocked.

This solar panel is waterproof with an IP44 rating. It keeps working even in rain or fog. But remember, it needs direct sunlight to get the most power. It does not store energy, so you need sunny weather to charge your devices.

This solar charger is good for backpackers, hikers, campers, or anyone who wants portable power. It helps keep your electronics charged while you are outdoors.

Some things to watch out for: The small battery holder on the panel is not very good. It has weak Velcro, so it is hard to carry extra batteries that way. Also, each port can give up to 12W, which might be slow for some large devices or power banks. The panel weighs about 24.8 ounces, a little heavier than some other models, so it might feel bulky for super light packing.

In short, the BigBlue 28W solar charger works well in sunlight. It is portable, durable, and helps you stay connected on outdoor trips. Just remember, it needs sun to work best and doesn’t store power for later use.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Solar Chargers for Backpacking

When choosing a solar charger for backpacking, you’ll want to think about your power needs first—how many devices and how much juice they’ll require, especially during long trips away from outlets. Then, consider the number and types of ports, since some chargers offer multiple USB options and even AC outlets, while others keep it simple. Don’t forget to evaluate the charger’s durability, weatherproof features, and how compact it is, because a bulky panel is unlikely to be your best hiking buddy—trust me, your back will thank you.

Power Capacity Needs

Ever wonder how much power you need from a solar charger when you’re outdoors? It’s easy to figure out. Start by counting your devices. Do you plan to charge your phone every day? Or maybe you need to power your GPS, camera, and tablet? Check each device’s battery size, measured in mAh (milliamp hours). Add them all up. Then, pick a solar charger that has a capacity bigger than that total.

If your trip is long, pick a big power bank, like a 20,000mAh model or more. A larger capacity means fewer recharges needed. Also, look for chargers with more than one outlet. Faster charging options help power your devices quickly.

Think about the weather. On cloudy days, sunlight is weaker. This makes recharging slower. Having a bigger capacity helps make sure your devices stay charged even in less sun.

Port Availability & Types

Having the right ports on a solar charger is important for your outdoor trips. Many solar chargers for backpackers have different output options like USB-A, USB-C, and wireless charging. This lets you power multiple devices at once without unplugging and plugging in cables all the time. The number of ports tells you how many gadgets you can charge at once. Some chargers come with built-in cables, while others have removable adapters. This makes it easier to carry only what you need.

Most chargers give out power at around 5V/2A or 5V/3A. The higher the number, the faster your phone or GPS will charge. Some chargers also work with different kinds of input power, like sunlight or wall outlets. This helps you stay powered up in all kinds of places. Choosing a solar charger with the right ports helps keep your devices working, no matter where you go.

Charging Speed Efficiency

The first thing to know about charging speed efficiency is that not all solar chargers turn sunlight into power the same way. Some have higher wattage and better solar cells. This means they can produce power faster. If you want your devices to charge quickly, look for chargers that have fast outputs, like USB-C Power Delivery up to 45W. This helps charge your devices in less time.

Sunlight conditions matter too. The best efficiency happens when the solar panel is in direct, clear sunlight at a 30-35° angle. Make sure to position your panel properly to get the most sun. If a charger has multiple ports with high combined power, you can charge several devices at once. Also, check the panel’s conversion efficiency. That number shows how well sunlight gets turned into electricity. A higher percentage means better efficiency.

In short, pick a solar charger with strong power output, good sunlight placement, multiple ports, and high conversion efficiency. This way, you can charge your devices faster and more reliably.

Durability & Weatherproofing

When picking a solar charger for backpacking, durability and weatherproofing are very important. Look for chargers with an IP44 or higher rating. This means they can handle rain and splashes without giving up. Use chargers made from tough materials like strong plastics or coated fabrics. These resist wind, dust, and sun damage, making the charger last longer. Some chargers are shockproof and dustproof. They have reinforced edges or covers that protect the parts inside from bumps or dirt. The solar panel surface should also be tough enough to handle rain, fog, and wear. This keeps it working well even after lots of exposure to weather. Secure mounting and seals help your charger survive rough outdoor trips. This way, your solar charger stays safe—no matter what weather it faces.

Portability & Size

When picking a solar charger for backpacking, it’s important to find the right size and weight. You don’t want your charger to feel like a heavy load. Look for a charger that weighs less than 2 pounds. That way, it won’t add much weight to your pack.

Foldable solar panels are a good choice. When folded, they are about 11 by 6 inches, so they are easy to store and attach to your backpack. Think of it like a folding piece of paper that turns into a small, portable panel.

Keep in mind, smaller panels usually produce less power. That means your devices might take longer to charge. If you need your phone or camera quickly, choose a slightly bigger panel with more wattage.

Some chargers have features like handles or clips. These help you attach the charger to your backpack or gear easily. It makes it simple to carry and use the charger on your hike.

In the end, find a charger that is light and compact but still gives enough power to keep your gadgets running. The right size and features make your adventure smoother and more fun.

Compatibility & Connectors

Make sure your solar charger works with your devices. Check that it has the right ports, like USB-A or USB-C. These ports connect to your devices so they can charge. Some solar chargers have built-in cables or adapters. These help support fast charging methods like Quick Charge or Power Delivery. Wireless charging options, like Qi, also make it easier to charge compatible phones without plugging in.

Having more than one output port helps you charge several devices at the same time. This is helpful when your battery is running low. Check that the connectors are strong and can handle being outside. They should resist water and dirt. Also, look at the voltage and current levels. These numbers tell you if your devices will charge safely and quickly.

Choosing a solar charger with the right compatibility and strong connectors makes charging easier and safer. It keeps your devices powered and saves you time.

Solar Recharging Efficiency

Solar recharging efficiency is how well a solar charger turns sunlight into power. The better the efficiency, the faster your device gets charged. Look for solar chargers with efficiency rates around 20-25%. This means more sunlight becomes usable energy.

The angle of the solar panel is also important. A tilt of about 30–35° helps the panel catch more sunlight. Make sure to place the charger where it gets direct sunlight and isn’t shaded by trees or buildings. Shade from clouds or shadows reduces the power output quickly.

Temperature affects efficiency too. Too much heat or cold can slow down the energy conversion. So, try to keep the charger in a moderate temperature.

Larger panels with more cells usually make more power. But bigger panels can be heavier and less portable. Find a balance between size and how easy it is to carry.

In short, high efficiency, proper angle, no shade, and good temperature help your solar charger work better. Choose a well-made panel and place it in clear sunlight for the best results.

Ease of Use

When you pick a solar charger for backpacking, how easy it is to use matters a lot. You don’t want to wrestle with tricky buttons or confusing instructions when you’re tired on a hike. A simple charger has clear controls and easy-to-read instructions, so you can set it up without hassle. Look for chargers that have built-in cables or multiple ports so you can connect your devices quickly. An LED light shows charging speed and battery level clearly, so you don’t have to guess. Pick a portable design that folds or is small so it’s easy to carry and pack away. Some chargers have adjustable stands or anti-slip bottoms. These help position the charger for the best sunlight and make charging more efficient with less effort.

FAQs

How Durable Are Solar Chargers in Extreme Weather Conditions?

Solar chargers can be quite durable in extreme weather, especially if designed with rugged materials and water resistance. You’ll need models specifically built for such conditions, and proper care helps guarantee they stay functional in harsh environments.

Can Solar Chargers Charge Devices Through Thick Clothing or Backpacks?

Solar chargers generally can’t effectively charge devices through thick clothing or backpacks because the materials block sunlight, reducing efficiency. For best results, place the charger directly under sunlight and keep devices exposed to maximize charging speed.

What Is the Typical Lifespan of a Portable Solar Charger?

A portable solar charger usually lasts between 2 to 5 years, depending on its quality and usage. You can extend its lifespan by handling it carefully, avoiding harsh weather, and keeping the panels clean for maximum performance.

Are Solar Chargers Safe to Use With All Electronic Devices?

Yes, solar chargers are generally safe for most electronic devices, but you should check compatibility and guarantee the charger provides the correct voltage and current. Using a suitable adapter and avoiding damaged units keeps your devices safe.

How Do Solar Chargers Perform in Low Sunlight or Cloudy Conditions?

Solar chargers work less efficiently in low sunlight or cloudy conditions, but they still generate power. You should expect slower charging times, and it’s wise to have backup power options or carry a higher-capacity charger for cloudy days.

Last update on 2026-02-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.   Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!