Best Solar Chargers for Backpacking

A solar charger is essential for lengthy backpacking journeys since it allows you to readily recharge electronic items such as a handheld GPS device, light, or smartphone. Solar chargers have become popular since many trekkers rely on these gadgets for trail guidance.

Solar chargers capture sunlight and convert it to electricity, which is then used to power your electronics or the battery pack. Unlike ordinary power banks, solar chargers are appropriate for very long excursions because they allow you to recharge your gadgets if sunshine is available.

This page defines a backpacking solar charger and explains how to select the finest solar chargers for you. We have highlighted the top solar chargers available to help you decide to purchase. We propose Jackery solar generators as your backpacking power guard, specifically the Jackery Solar Generator 300, which is perfect for backpacking due to its lightweight and portability.

Jackery Solar Generator 300
- 293Wh capacity and lithium-ion battery  - 300W rated power and 500W peak power - Easy to take with a handle, weighing only 7.1 pounds - 2*AC outputs, PD USB-C, QC3.0 USB-A, and 12V carport - Lower price, higher power

What is A Solar Charger for Backpacking

A backpacking solar charger is a gadget that collects and uses the sun's electricity. It can be connected to a light or a phone to provide hours of electricity at night. Solar chargers are incredibly light and portable, making them ideal for traveling and hiking.

A solar charger can come in various designs, sizes, and lighting options. They are also not usually pricey. A solar charger typically includes a small battery and panels. Before use, the batteries can be charged using a carport or a wall. We recommend purchasing one of these goods if you intend to go on long camping trips.

Solar chargers are beneficial since they absorb energy from the sun during the day and progressively deliver it to your device at night. Many backpacking solar chargers include a power storage option that allows users to save energy for later use. Connecting numerous panels to charge more oversized items like laptops and tablets is also possible, making them ideal for group travel or camping with friends or family.

How Does A Backpacking Solar Charger Work

Backpacking solar chargers gather direct sunlight, turn it into electricity, and then store it in an attached battery. The panel is activated by the sun's rays, which turn into energy that fuels your device, such as your phone or tablet.

These chargers are ideal for outdoor activities because they use renewable energy instead of being plugged into an outlet at home or at work all day. Solar chargers are helpful when stranded somewhere without power, such as while trekking outdoors.

Types of Solar Chargers for Backpacking

There are numerous types of solar chargers available nowadays. They can, however, be divided into two categories: foldable and stiff. Foldable solar chargers are lightweight and flexible, allowing them to be folded and carried like a map while hiking, climbing, or backpacking.

A. Solar Panels

If you own a power bank, purchasing a solar panel to charge your small electronics is the most practical alternative. This is especially critical if you will be away from a power source for a week or more. You can charge your devices via USB, a solar panel is an excellent alternative because they're cheaply priced and can charge various devices.

B. Solar Charger with Battery Pack

Consider obtaining a portable solar charger with an integrated battery to avoid carrying a solar panel and a power bank. These devices are fantastic because they are self-contained and simple to operate. Unfold the panel to reveal the solar cells and let it charge the internal battery in the sun. Once set, you may use it to power your gadgets in the same way that you would a power bank.

C. Solar Charger with External Battery Pack

Solar charger bundles with a solar panel and an external battery pack are also available. This is great if you have a power bank that you want to utilize to store power and need a way to keep it charged while on your trips. It would help if you found the proper wire to connect the solar panels to an external battery.  

D. Solar Backpack

Solar backpacks are also available for individuals looking for an all-in-one solution. These backpacks have integrated solar panels, allowing you to charge your electronics while on the go. They're ideal for hikers, cyclists, and anyone who spends much time outside.

The Best Solar Chargers for Backpacking with Jackery

For this purpose, solar chargers are becoming more popular. Choosing the best solar charger for backpacking might take much work. Whether you're a backpacking newbie or a seasoned pro, this is a beautiful place to start when deciding which portable solar charger is best for you.

Now that you've determined that a solar charger is an absolute must for investigating the land that was previously out of reach, it's time to figure out which solar charger is most suited to your needs. Jackery manufactures some of the most excellent portable solar chargers available today. All Jackery solar generators are exceptionally light and compact, making them ideal for transport. They employ SolarSaga solar panels with Explorer power stations to convert solar energy into electricity and store it for later use, allowing you to use them whenever and wherever you want, even at night.

Electronics are now more than ever a component of the adventurer's toolkit. Jackery portable solar generators are now proving to be a practical means of supplying electricity outdoors, thanks to advancements in solar cell efficiency. Anyone can charge their devices by harnessing the sun's energy rather than carrying physical batteries or exhausting the battery in their vehicle or camper.  

Jackery Solar Generator for Ultralight Backpacking

Some backpacking trips require you to carry only the lightest and smallest gear. As a result, ultralight backpacking makes big power banks obsolete, necessitating only the most lightweight solutions.  

We recommend the Jackery Solar Generator 240, which weighs only 6.6 pounds and is ideal for ultralight backpacking. This generator comprises SolarSaga 100W solar panels and an Explorer 240 power station that can be fully charged in 4.5 hours. It provides on-the-go power in a compact, lightweight design with several ports to charge your mainstream gadgets. Solar electricity is used to charge this solar generator. You are not chained by a wire or a plug anywhere, and you can easily stay charged while on the go and enjoying the great outdoors. 

Nothing beats the agony of having your solar charger destroyed by a few water drips when camping. Water damage has frequently forced tourists to put their trekking trips on hold. Jackery solar generators prioritize water resistance, safety, and dependability; they feature a weatherproof ETFE external covering that gives them a robust appearance to boost performance and longevity, and you should never be concerned about an accident occurring.

Jackery Lightweight Solar Generator for Backpacking

When backpacking, most travelers consider the weight of their entire luggage for various reasons, including convenience. Nobody wants to be fatigued by a large backpack that consists mainly of a bulky charger that hardly holds any charge.

Jackery solar generators are portable and convenient, thanks to small panels that fold to fit in a bag. In addition to the Solar Generator 240, the Jackery Solar Generator 300 is the lightest solar charger, combining SolarSaga 100W solar panels with the Explorer 300 power station. The included MPPT controller allows the solar generator to run at its maximum power point. It speeds up battery recharge and makes them excellent portable power kits for trekking, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

Another feature distinguishing the Jackery solar generator as the finest backpacking solar charger is its adaptability. We are all aware that the outdoors offers a variety of emergencies that can become life-threatening during a power outage. There was a time when you needed a different solar charger for each activity. This solar generator will be a constant necessity and literal savior no matter where you travel on your outdoor adventures.

Jackery High-Capacity Solar Generator for Backpacking

If your solar charger can barely charge your devices many times, it's time to replace it. A high-capacity solar generator can meet all of your off-grid demands. As previously stated, Solar Generators 240 and 300 are the most compact solar chargers. At the same time, the Solar Generator 1000 Pro is a high-capacity solar generator with a capacity of 1002Wh that is ideal for long hiking trips.

The folding handle is intended to facilitate transit and storage. With a 1000-charge cycle lifespan and a lighter design, this compact power allows you to carry on any outdoor excursion. A pure sine wave inverter provides reliable electricity to protect your electronics. This ultra-quiet (46dB) product includes an integrated battery management system (BMS) to monitor and safeguard battery life. The LED light has three brightness settings and can assist you in meeting your outdoor needs.

Indeed, more than nine types of Jackery solar generators are available to you for any power demand, whether on an outdoor trip or needing power during a blackout. Choose one of our solar generators based on your needs.

How to Choose The Best Solar Charger for Backpacking

Because a backpacking solar charger is powered by the sun, you should be able to charge while on the go with the solar panels out in the sun. However, there are a handful of factors to consider when deciding on the type of solar charger you desire.  

A. Charging Speed

There are numerous alternatives available, but not all of them are potent. You want something that will charge your electronics quickly so that you can relax on your journey. Furthermore, these chargers require sunlight to function. All of these chargers will operate when it is foggy, just not as efficiently. And any of the ones in our review will work well as a backpacking solar charger. Jackery solar generators are the fastest solar charging equipment on the market, charging in 1.8 hours.  

B. Weight

Compared to gas or fuel generators, all the portable solar chargers discussed above are relatively lightweight, portable, and suited for hiking trips. Most are better suited to backpacking in groups or couples when it is a good idea to share the weight carried so that the overall load per person is lighter.

C. Charging Ports

You must select how many devices you will use and how many will require charging during your trip. This will help determine how many USB charging ports you'll need. All Jackery solar generators have more than three outlets, and thanks to the pass-through charging function, you can charge both the devices and the solar power station at the same time.

Solar Charger for Backpacking FAQs

The following shows the frequently asked questions about the solar charger for backpacking:

1. How can I charge my solar charger without the sun?

You may charge your solar power bank with a battery by connecting it to a wall outlet or another power source. Connect one end of the USB connector to your power bank and the other to the power source. For example, the Jackery solar generators support solar panels, a wall outlet, and a carport to recharge, eliminating the need to work at night or indoors.  

2. How long it takes to power my electronics via solar charger?

The time required to power a solar charger's appliance is primarily determined by its battery capacity and sunlight conversion efficiency. Here is the method for calculating how long it takes to charge your electronics with the Jackery solar generator:

Working time = solar generator capacity*0.85 / your device's operating wattage

For example, if you charge your phone (18 Watts) with a Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro (1002Wh capacity), the working time is 47H (1002Wh*0.85/18W).

3. Is a solar charger for backpacking worth it?

Yes. Solar chargers, particularly Jackery solar generators, are worthwhile for outdoor enthusiasts who frequently deal with the unpredictability of power and power sources. They are more portable, adaptable, and convenient, allowing backpackers and other nature enthusiasts to use their electronic devices without anxiety.

Final Thoughts

To summarise, you may select the best solar charger for backpacking that meets your needs from the many products available. Some considerations should be made when choosing a solar charger. First, consider how much time you will rely on it to charge your devices, and then consider how many outlets or ports it contains. Finally, examine the power capacity and speed. With their compact size, high capacity, and clean energy, Jackery solar generators are the ideal backpacking power masters.