Best Caravan & Campervan Solar Panels

Looking to harness the power of the sun for your caravan or campervan adventures? Look no further! We have compiled a comprehensive list of the best caravan and campervan solar panels available today. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or embark on your first road trip, solar panels can provide a sustainable and efficient energy source for all your onboard needs. We’ll guide you through the top options, discussing their features, benefits, and potential drawbacks so you can make an informed choice. Plus, stay tuned for our practical buying guide to help you navigate the world of solar panels and find the perfect solution to keep your mobile home powered up, all while reducing your environmental footprint.

Read on for our expert reviews of the best caravan and campervan solar panels available. Check the latest prices to ensure you get a great deal!

Our Top Picks

7 Best Caravan & Campervan Solar Panels

1. Renogy 100-Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel

The 100-Watt 12 V monocrystalline panel provides electricity to yachts, boats, caravans, campervans, and motorhomes. If you desire efficient performance, purity, and enhanced durability, this product offers it all. The panel is especially enduring against high wind and extreme weather conditions too.

Features

Reliable

The Renogy solar panel for caravan and campervan is manufactured using high-purity silicon cells. This, along with advanced coated encapsulation material, forms a multilayered sheet lamination that enhances cell performance. Moreover, it ensures long-lasting durability like no other.

Efficient

The solar panel comes with a guaranteed positive output tolerance of 0-3%. The bypass diodes can reduce the power dropping that happens due to shade. This further ensures an excellent performance graph even under low-light conditions.

Furthermore, the anti-reflective, highly transparent, low-iron tempered glass coating ensures high durability and resistance to impact.

Long-Lasting

The device is highly durable due to its robust construction. It can withstand high-wind conditions up to 2400 PA and snow loads up to 5400 PA. This makes it perfect for outdoor use with a caravan or a campervan.

Moreover, corrosion-resistant aluminium framing ensures extended longevity for decades. It also comes with an IP 65 rating, which guarantees resistance against environmental particles and low-pressure water jets.

Easy to Install

The panel comes with pre-drilled holes on the back of it. In addition, a 2-ft long 14 AWG cable ensures easy connectivity. The cable also has male/female connectors for faster mounting and securing.

This panel is perfect for off-grid use, and you can easily mount it on top of your yachts, cabins, campervans, and even rooftop.

2. ECO-WORTHY 100 Watt 12V Solar Panels Kit

The ECO-WORTHY solar panel kit is considered one of the best kits around for various reasons. A major perk of using this is its high-quality design. One look at it, and you will know that the panel is a premium quality product. Moreover, it is a highly reliable solar panel that can withstand any weather condition.

Features

Consistent Power-Supply

The 100 W model from ECO-WORTHY is ideally suited for leisure battery charging and power supply. Compared to other solar systems, this product is entirely compatible with stationary and mobile applications.

The energy-efficiency is part of all solar panels, but apart from that, it has various other features too. The charge controller that comes with this model further enhances the convenience. It includes an LCD interface for completely automated operation.

Easy Installation

It is very easy to instal the product. ECO-WORTHY solar panel comes with pre-drilled holes and a Z-style bracket that makes it easy to install. It also includes extension cables that allow it to reach further than most panels.

On top of that, the manufacturer of the model provides a 5-year guarantee on material and workmanship and a 25-year transferable power output insurance.

Lightweight and Efficient

The product has massive popularity for its lightweight design and highly efficient performance. The 12 V battery charging is compatible with all sophisticated domestic and industrial energy supplementation.

Moreover, the durable, weatherproof construction and warranties are just added bonuses. This is a multipurpose solar panel that keeps the leisure battery on your camper topped up.

3. Photonic Universe Monocrystalline Solar Panel

This 160W single crystalline solar panel complies with the highest quality and performance standards out there. When it comes to finding the best portable options for your caravans and campervans, this is as good as it gets. You also get a 5m cable with the product. The length of the cable is ideal when it comes to solar cables, and it delivers high-end function even on high-roof temperatures.

Features

High Endurance

The product’s endurance is highly impressive and makes it one of the most long-lasting panels out there for off-grid application. It is compatible with any solar-powered device, such as boats, caravans, and even tents.

The Photonic Universe Monocrystalline Solar Panel has a tough sealed metal build. This increases its resistance to water and harsh weather conditions.

High Efficiency

The wattage of this model can charge a 12V battery. This enables it to supply power to multiple devices and appliances. Also, the panel is perfectly suitable for outdoor use permanently.

You can even create additional power by connecting several of these models. An excellent quality assurance is that with this model is that each panel comes with its unique serial number. This also assures warranty protection.

4. Brillihood 100W Flexible Solar Panel

If you wondered why this bendy noodle made it to the list of the top seven products, then now you will know. The product has a very obvious and unique design compared to other solar panels. The portable shape allows for easy handling of the panel. If you were bothered by the rigidity of the traditional solar panels, then Brillihood has solved the issue with their flexible panel.

Features

Flexible Panels

The Brillihood 100W Flexible Solar Panel comes with a lot of features, but the flexibility of the product is definitely top-notch. Thanks to the curved surface, it can be attached anywhere.

The product also comes with cables and a junction box. Now, because the junction box is on the underside of the panel, it extends the product’s longevity despite being exposed to outside conditions.

Wide Use

The Brillihood 100W Flexible Solar Panel can be connected to a battery, charge controller, or regulator. This makes the product useful in multiple power applications. The maximum power is around 100 W, and the voltage is 18 V.

It has a power tolerance of +/- 3%. Thanks to the in-built microcontroller, you can further ensure a steady power supply.

Efficient functions

You can easily monitor the panel activity with the help of an LCD. The protective feature against any electrical damage, like short circuits, open circuits, and overloaded currents, make it extremely safe.

The whole 3-stage PWM charge movement, along with two USB ports, allow you to charge your phone and laptop with this panel.

5. TP-Solar Monocrystalline Solar Panel

The 20W solar panel kit from TP-Solar Store is one of the cheapest yet most efficient solar panels. At 2.75 pounds, the product is not too heavy either and allow easy manoeuvrability. It is helpful for a wide range of off-grid applications, like a caravan, boat, greenhouse, marine, and even garden watering.

Features

Compact and Portable

The panel is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. This is why the panel is most suited for outdoor activities.

The model also comes with pre-installed drill holes on the back. This allows quicker mounting and securing without any trouble.

Waterproof Junction Box

The junction box of the TP-Solar panel has an advanced construction that is water and dustproof. This offers wholesome protection against any environmental hazard and even against low-pressure water jets.

Highly Efficient Monocrystalline Solar Panel

The panel has an advanced encapsulation material with multilayered sheet lamination. This enhances the cell’s performance while assuring a long service life.

Moreover, the 12V battery helps store an ample amount of energy converted from the sunlight. The high-quality glasses and small size further ensure faster charging.

Versatile, Durable, and Reliable

You can use the device with many different applications. The DIY brackets make it easy to mount on any caravan, boat, or yacht.

It has a corrosion-resistant aluminium frame, which is most suited for outdoor purposes. You can expect the panels to last for decades, even.

6. Sorulykin Solar Charger Foldable Solar Panel

The Sorulykin foldable solar charger kit with dual USB ports and DC output is way more than just a caravan solar panel. It can also charge your smartphones, iPad, and more. This water-resistant solar panel also offers a high solar energy conversion efficiency. Compact, portable, foldable — this solar panel is a unique charger. Let’s take a look at its various features.

Features

Unusual Design

The device has a highly portable and foldable design, perfectly suited for any type of outdoor activity. You will have no trouble carrying it with you. The foldable feature makes it a highly convenient travel buddy.

Great Performance

The device is much more efficient than the traditional solar chargers, so don’t judge it from its size. Despite coming in a portable size, its high-efficiency conversion rate is off the chart. With a transformation efficiency of 22%, it outnumbers any conventional solar panels in the market.

Safety Features

Besides being foldable and portable, the product also comes with numerous safety features. The product is RoHS and CE certified. That means it is protected from all types of short-circuiting. The surge protection technology ensures the utmost safety of your device.

Wide Compatibility

The solar charger is widely compatible with a lot of different devices. This is thanks to the QC3.0 USB port, which universally charges any 5V USB device. This includes your smartphones, 5V tablets, headphones and speakers too.

Water-Resistance

This solar panel is water-resistant and weatherproof against all harsh conditions. This makes it the perfect companion on your next caravan trip, even if the weather doesn’t look too bright. It is also compatible with other outdoor activities, such as climbing, hiking, camping, etc.

7. DOKIO 80W Portable Folding Monocrystalline Solar Panel

The portable folding solar panel kit from the globally renowned brand DOKIO is a magnificent piece of art. The 80W 12V solar panel kit comes with a controller and USB output for charging all your devices. Let’s have a look at the various features it offers.

Features

Powerful and Efficient

The monocrystalline solar cell of the panel is highly efficient. You can get a good amount of power from this small yet powerful solar panel. In fact, it can maximise the system output by reducing any mismatch loss for greater efficiency.

Stylish Carry Case

The stylish carry case is a USP of this product. It not only helps generate power but also looks ultra-stylish too. It has an ultra-thin body that makes it easy to carry around and store. You can flip open the case with ease.

Despite that, it is thick enough to protect the panels inside. The convenient handle makes it easier when carrying. You can even fold and slide the panels into the thin area once you are done using them.

Compatibility with All Types of Vehicles

The 80W pair of panels are compatible with all types of caravans, boats, and any vehicle that needs solar charging. The panels are highly efficient, despite being smaller in size. The powerful energy conversion efficiency is more than capable of powering all your electric needs.

In addition, you get cables and clips that will help charge your car’s battery too. This is a uber-convenient feature to help you in the middle of nowhere.

Caravan and Campervan Solar Panel Buying Guide

The caravan and campervan solar panel models mentioned above tick all the features you would need in your product. However, there are still many more attractive models available. If you enjoyed this exclusive review of seven of the best solar panel kits for your campervan and caravan, then you might want to take a learn a few basic knowledge about solar panels.

Having some basic understanding of the products will also help you better justify their qualities. So, take a look at some of the basic questions and crucial factors that this buying guide covers.

Key Takeaways

• Caravan and campervan solar panels collect and store solar energy to provide an energy-efficient and eco-friendly power source for your vehicle, including appliances, lights, and sockets.
• There are four main types of campervan solar panels: Polycrystalline, Monocrystalline, thin film, and CIGS, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
• When buying solar panels for caravans and campervans, consider factors like power requirements, ease of installation, maintenance needs, and including a charge controller to make an informed choice.

What Is a Caravan Solar Panel Kit?

A caravan solar panel kit can be your one-stop solution for enjoying energy-efficient, cost-saving solar power. The best part is that you can do this while reducing your carbon footprint so that you might feel good about yourself.

The best caravan solar panel kit usually consists of a few of the following components. This includes,

• One of more than one solar panels
• A solar charge controller
• Connectors
• Z-brackets for mounting
• A cable tray

Usually, these come as plug-and-play kits which you can install without much trouble. The only thing you need to do is simply connect the solar panel and the battery via the cables.

How Does a Caravan Solar Panel Kit Work?

Caravan and campervan solar panel kits function just as any residential and commercial solar panels would. That means they collect solar energy during the daytime and store it in their battery for later use.

The only difference is that these solar panels are much smaller in size. Being portable, you can carry these around for an instant power supply to your vehicle. These solar panels can power up your entire caravan, including the appliances, lights and sockets.

Without these at your disposal, though, you would have to rely on other power sources, like a generator or electricity. However, campervan solar panels are much more convenient and environment-friendly compared to traditional energy sources.

How Many Types of Solar Panels Are There?

Based on the type of silicon cell construction, campervan solar panels can be of four different types. Remember that the construction significantly impacts the efficiency of the solar panel and is important.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Multiple silicon crystals are used to manufacture this type of solar panel. This constricts the electrons from moving and makes the panels less efficient. These consume more space but come at a cheaper price range.

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

This type of panel tends to be a bit more costly, but the pure silicon crystals used in manufacturing makes it worth it. Manufacturing takes longer for this type of panel, with the solar cells being much more efficient. This type of panel is more portable too.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

The extra-thin layers of semiconductors are neatly deposited on a plastic or glass base to make these solar panels. Light and flexible, you can easily curve these panels.

CIGS Solar Panels

This copper indium gallium selenide solar panel features very thin cells. Due to this, these cells can absorb a large amount of sunlight. They are very flexible and lightweight too and last long from daily wear and heat.

Features to Consider when Buying Solar Panels for Caravans and Campervans

Let’s talk about a few important factors that are important in determining your choice. To get the correct solar panel kits, you would need to make these factors your prime consideration.

Power Requirement

This is the primary factor you need to consider when getting a new solar panel. The table below will give you an approximate idea about the power requirement from your caravan solar panel.

Installation

Usually, solar panels for caravans and campervans are fairly easy to set up. You may have to do a few minor handiworks, like fastening the brackets. Some of the latest solar panels even come with adhesive backing for more convenience.

If you want to avoid the whole mounting process, just get yourself some portable case-style solar sets. You can unfold and use them when there is a need.

Maintenance

Maintenance is another crucial factor for choosing the right solar panel. You would want to select a product with minimal maintenance. Also, you want a power source that can last a decent amount of time, so you don’t need to run for a generator.

Charge Controller

There are many products that come with a charge controller included. The features may vary, and some may come with a battery sensor with LCD or different types of phases. There are single-phase, single-phase trickle, and multi-phase charge controllers.

Case Study: Empowering Mobile Adventures with Solar Technology

Background

At Solar Panels Network, we strive to provide sustainable energy solutions that cater to a diverse range of needs, including those of mobile living enthusiasts. With an increasing number of people adopting the caravan and campervan lifestyle, there is a growing demand for reliable and efficient power sources. This case study explores our work in outfitting a caravan with a solar panel system designed to ensure energy independence and reduce the environmental footprint of our clients’ travels.

Project Overview

The project’s primary goal was to install a solar panel system capable of powering a variety of electrical devices within a caravan, thereby eliminating the need for conventional energy sources like generators or mains electricity. The client, an avid traveller, required a setup that would provide sufficient power for extended trips, including stays in remote areas without access to grid electricity.

Implementation

• Assessment of Energy Needs: We conducted a thorough assessment of the caravan’s energy consumption requirements, including devices such as lighting, a small refrigerator, a water pump, and charging ports for electronic devices. This assessment was crucial in determining the total wattage needed.
• Panel Selection: Based on the energy needs and available roof space, we selected a mix of monocrystalline and thin-film solar panels. Monocrystalline panels were chosen for their high efficiency and space-saving properties, while thin-film panels were selected for their flexibility and ease of installation.
• Installation Process: The panels were mounted using durable Z-brackets, ensuring they were securely fixed to withstand travel conditions. We oriented the panels to maximise exposure to sunlight, considering the caravan’s typical parking positions. We also installed a solar charge controller with MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) technology to optimise the charging process and protect the battery from overcharging and discharging.
• System Integration: We integrated the solar panels with the caravan’s electrical system, including a battery bank capable of storing sufficient energy to last through several days of cloudy weather. The installation included an inverter to convert the DC power generated by the panels into AC power, suitable for the caravan’s appliances.

Results

• Enhanced Autonomy: The solar panel system provided continuous power for essential appliances, maintaining battery levels even during extended stays in off-grid locations. The system’s efficiency was validated during a trial run where the caravan was stationed in a shaded area; the panels still captured enough sunlight to keep the batteries charged.
• Environmental Benefits: By using solar power, the client significantly reduced their reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with their eco-conscious values. The reduction in generator use also contributed to a quieter and more peaceful environment during camping trips.
• Client Satisfaction: The client expressed high satisfaction with the system’s performance, particularly appreciating the reduced need for frequent battery checks and the ease of monitoring the system through a mobile app provided with the solar charge controller.

Summary

This detailed case study illustrates the practical benefits of integrating solar panels into caravans and campervans. By carefully assessing the client’s needs and selecting the appropriate solar technology, we delivered a system that met and exceeded expectations. The project not only provided a reliable and sustainable power source but also enhanced the overall travel experience. Solar Panels Network is committed to supporting sustainable travel solutions, ensuring that our clients can enjoy their adventures with minimal environmental impact.

Expert Insights From Our Solar Panel Installers About Caravan and Campervan Solar Panels

Caravan and campervan solar panels are a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts. These panels provide a reliable, eco-friendly power source, perfect for remote locations where conventional power sources aren’t available.

Senior Solar Technician

Choosing the right type of solar panel is crucial. Monocrystalline panels, for example, offer higher efficiency in smaller spaces, making them ideal for compact setups in campervans.

Renewable Energy Consultant

Installation and maintenance are key considerations. Opt for panels with straightforward installation processes and minimal maintenance requirements to ensure longevity and optimal performance.

Outdoor Solar Specialist

Our Expertise in Solar Panels

At Solar Panels Network, our pride lies in the extensive expertise of our seasoned professionals and renewable energy experts. With the rising demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient solutions, we are dedicated to guiding you through the options for caravan and campervan solar panels. By merging our vast knowledge with practical, real-world testing, we deliver trustworthy reviews.

Why Trust Our Reviews?

• Industry Expertise: Our experts have a deep-seated understanding of the solar industry, including caravan and campervan solar panels. We stay updated with technological advancements to ensure our reviews reflect the cutting-edge options.
• Hands-On Testing: True to our commitment to authenticity, each solar panel on our list has been tested for performance and durability. We’ve assessed these panels in various settings to simulate their performance on your caravan or campervan.
• Transparency: We approach our reviews with a clear and open methodology. Every recommendation is presented with an honest assessment of its features and functionality. We aim to provide you with all the necessary information, free from any external influence so that you can make the best choice.
• Experience: Our team’s collective experience is invaluable in discerning the quality of caravan and campervan solar panels. We’ve seen trends come and go and understand what features offer genuine long-term value. This experience is integral to our review process, providing you with recommendations that are not just based on technical specifications but also real usability and satisfaction.

As we seek a more sustainable future, we are dedicated to helping you find the best caravan and campervan solar panels for 2024. Our selection is designed to offer you a combination of innovation, reliability, and practicality, perfect for your mobile adventures. With our expert advice, you can harness solar power on the go with confidence.

Wrapping Up

If you love to camp or prefer the van life, solar panels can be an energy-efficient choice. Not only do you get an unlimited power source for your daily tasks, but it also helps reduce your carbon footprint.

Of course, it is not easy to choose the best caravan and campervan solar panel kit. To do this right, you need to keep various factors in mind. This includes factors like long-term use and functionality.

With the help of this article, you would not need to search extensively, though. With each point explained elaborately, you can simply walk through each specification to make your pick.