People choose portable solar panels for camping and Overlanding adventures. Solar panels help charge your electronic devices so your cell phone never runs out of juice and you stay in touch with your family at home. However, when planning to go on an overlanding adventure, you might take your 4×4 instead of a campervan; this will have you searching for the best solar panels for 4×4. Fortunately, we are sharing our picks for the best solar panel for 4×4 with the pros and cons for each one. This list will help you make an informed decision, so let’s get started.
Options for Best Solar Panel For 4×4
You might use a flexible or fixed solar panel kit for a campervan or an RV, but for a 4×4, you need a more compact design. People who drive 4×4’s know they don’t have enough space for a large solar panel and their belongings. Therefore, they seek less space-consuming options and have to give up on power output. Below we have shared solar panels for 4×4 with adequate power output so that you don’t have to wait all day to charge your devices.
1. DOKIO 300 Watts 18 Volts Portable Foldable Solar Panel
ASIN: B07JPH4PHG
The best thing about foldable solar panels is that you can conveniently fit them in your travel bag without making extra room in your 4×4. On top of this, the foldable DOKIO solar panel has a 300-watt solar output with 18 volts, so you don’t have to compromise on power either. In addition to 300 Watt power, the DOKIO foldable solar panel has monocrystalline technology, making it more durable and energy-efficient than most solar panels.
Pros of The DOKIA 300 Watt Solar Panel
The best thing about foldable solar panels is that you can easily place them on your car’s windshield when you are camping. This will prevent your car from heating up, and you’ll conserve solar energy in the process. It’s an additional source of power, and you can install it on your roof as well for saving solar energy on the go.
Its charge control technology protects solar cells from overcharging or short circuits. So you can expect your DOKIO foldable solar panel to last longer than others. Plus, it comes with a free charge controller, which is a nice addition with an already impressive solar panel.
Cons of The DKIO 300 Watt Solar Panel
The DOKIO 300 Solar panel is good in all aspects, except for its charging capabilities. The device shows performance lags and doesn’t have a resume function to prevent battery loss when it’s cloudy in between a sunny day.
Features
- Monocrystalline technology
- Ultra-thin for easier movement
- High conversion efficiency
- Free solar controller
2. ROCKPALS SP003 100W Foldable Solar Panel
ASIN: B07FH85FW9
The Rockpals SP003 is a 100-watt solar panel that has quickly made a name for itself in the solar market. It’s a practical choice for 4×4 campers because it has anti-reflective amorphous cell layers. This technology traps23% more sunlight and improves energy efficiencies by the same percentage. With this solar panel, you won’t have to worry about sun availability because it can charge even in low sunlight.
Pros of The SP003
Factors like spacing and weight are the top priorities for 4×4 campers, and the SP003 checks all the boxes. Coming in at 82 ouches, it’s lighter than other pricy options and measures around 20.5 x 14.2 x 2.6 inches. The small size of this solar panel compensates for its lack of energy output, and you can buy 2 of these to meet your energy deficiencies.
Cons of The SP003
The durability of these lightweight solar panels is an issue – especially during windy conditions. You might have to tie down this solar panel because it can drift away with the wind.
Features
- Anti-reflective amorphous cell layers
- Energy efficient
- 3 USB ports
- 10 Watt power output
3. WindyNation 100W Solar Blanket
ASIN: B08FXVVLG4
Solar blankets are undoubtedly the best solar panels for 4×4 drivers. Windy Nation has become a household name in the solar panel industry, and its solar blanket is nothing less either. However, this solar blanket is packed with innovative features that have set the bar higher for its competitors. For instance, it’s semi foldable making it more convenient to store. Plus, it has a waterproof junction box, so you don’t have to worry about the rain anymore.
Pros of The WindyNation 100W Solar Blanket
The WindyNation solar blanket is ultra-thin and delivers an astounding 100W energy output. Its thickness is 0.1 inches which makes it slimmer than your latest Macbook Pro. Moreover, it has blocking diode technology which prevents its battery from draining in low light, and a one-time charge will last you longer than other pricey solar blankets.
Cons of The WindyNation 100W Solar Blanket
Its slim body is a dream come true for 4×4 campers, but it can blow away with the wind, so you must be extra careful.
Features
- Blocking diode technology
- Slim body
- Ultra-lightweight
- Waterproof junction
- Semi-flexible
Our Final Thoughts
Whether you are overlanding or going on a short camping trip, you need to pick the best solar panel for 4×4. Regular-sized solar panels can take up extra space in your 4×4 plus their weight can slow you down while driving on terrains and mountains. The above-mentioned solar panels for 4×4 are convenient, lightweight, and can easily be carried around. Moreover, some panels in our list are waterproof so you don’t have to worry about losing your solar panels in the rain. However, you need to be careful in windy locations because these solar panels are lightweight and can drift away with wind pressure.
