The monotony of city life can often be too much for people living within the city to manage. As city dwellers, our connection with natural roots is often cut off and we are left spending our lives in the concrete jungle we live in. However, regardless of how long we live in the city, there is always an inclination in humans to go back to nature, be it in the form of a hiking or camping trip.
Fortunately, people have started prioritizing time off from their office and professional pursuits to head on to a silent getaway, away from the hubbub of city life. But, can we seriously think about spending our time without our gadgets?
Every gadget today has its own importance, and it is necessary that we pack them with us to keep track of our friends and family and also to alert someone in case of an emergency or a problem. If you do keep your gadgets, you may have to think of ways to charge them, especially if you’re heading on a hiking trip that may take over 6 hours.
Portable power banks were expected to fulfill charging needs here, but they have limited efficiency and may not be able to keep up with the pace of change. Hence, it is necessary that city dwellers buy a solar panel for hiking before they head out.
In this article we take a look at some of the best solar panels for hiking. These solar panels have been selected with due consideration and will help safeguard your interests in nature.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Solar Panels for Hiking
Fortunately, we have a number of exciting solar panels available in the market today. All of these panels offer their own versatile features and convenience. The convenience you get from your solar panel depends on the features it offers. Read on as we look at some of the things and features to consider before buying the best solar panels for hiking.
High Wattage
High wattage input usually means that the solar panel has the structural capabilities to be able to power multiple devices at the same time. Solar panels that come with high wattage ratings usually come at a higher price point and may cost more.
Efficiency
Efficiency is another key metric that you should keep in mind while buying your solar panel. The efficiency of a solar panel is categorized through the ability of a solar panel to transfer solar energy from the sun into DC energy required for your phones and gadgets to charge. Efficiency is calculated in the form of a given percentage. The higher the percentage, the better it is for you. A higher efficiency percentage does, however, come at a cost.
Portability
If you’re heading on a hiking trip, you’re probably walking on foot and don’t have a car. If that’s the case, you can carry limited luggage and would need a solar panel that weighs less and is portable to carry.
The 5 Best Solar Panels for Hiking
Let’s go ahead and take a look at the best solar panels for hiking and camping.
1. Nekteck Portable Solar Panel Charger
The Nekteck Portable Solar Panel Charger is the best solar panel for hiking enthusiasts. The charger comes with 3 amps of power output, which are more than enough on a hiking trip.
This charger also comes with a dual USB option of its own, which can help with fast charging on the go. The device weighs only 1.13 pounds and is extremely easy to carry because of its limited weight. You can easily snuggle it in your luggage as well.
2. Zamp Solar Portable Solar Panel Kit
The Zamp Solar Portable Solar Panel Kit is rated among the best for RVs and other camping vehicles. This kit is easy to carry as well, as it weighs a little less than 40 pounds.
The kit comes with a charging power of 140 watt and can charge everything from your laptop to the lights at your pit stops. You can also connect this kit to a battery to store power for future use during the night.
3. Renogy Monocrystalline Portable Foldable Solar Panel Suitcase
The Renogy Monocrystalline Portable Foldable Solar Panel Suitcase is another excellent solar panel for hiking, which is even easier to carry. The solar panel comes in the shape of a suitcase and can easily be carried with you.
Interestingly, the suitcase can also be folded to become part of your luggage. The solar panel offers an output of over 500 watts every day. The charge controller also has an LCD display for readings.
4. Eco-Worthy Off Grid Solar Panels
The Eco-Worthy Off Grid Solar Panel is an exciting solar panel for adventurists who go on extensive hiking trips. The panel has a rating of 195 watts and weighs a little less than 30 pounds.
This off grid solar panel provides upwards of 1,000 watts every day and can take a 50 AH battery to 100 percent within an hour. You can also mount it around your camping spot due to the pre-drilled holes.
5. Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Solar Charger
The Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Solar Charger is one of the best panels to carry on a camping or hiking trip. The charger comes with its own backpack and weighs a little less than 1.3 pounds.
This solar charger is perfect to carry around when you’re hiking on your own and exploring the nature around you. This solar panel is better than a power bank and gives good USB options.
Our Final Thoughts
The Nekteck Portable Solar Panel Charger is our best recommended solar panel for hiking. The solar panel charger comes in a portable size and weight, and is extremely easy to carry around. You can read reviews of these solar chargers online to buy the best solar panels for hiking.
