Portable Solar Panel for RV: Everything You Need to Know

There’s nothing like an RV trip to explore the great outdoors in comfort. But when you’re in-between utility stations, you don’t want to go without powering your favorite devices.

That’s where portable solar panels for RVs come into play. They allow you to continue charging your laptop, cell phone, and small appliances without having to constantly plan your trip around getting from one utility station to another.

If you’re considering purchasing a portable solar panel for your RV, then you’re in the right place. This article will cover everything you need to know about the topic, including our recommendation for the best portable RV solar panels of 2023.

So, without further delay, let’s get started.

• What are portable RV solar panels?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of portable RV solar panels?
• How to Choose Portable RV Solar Panels
• The Best Portable RV Solar Panels of 2023
• FAQs About Portable RV Solar Panels  
• BougeRV Has the Perfect Portable Solar Panels for Your RV 

What are portable RV solar panels?

 

Portable RV solar panels are just what they sound like – mobile solar panels that go with you wherever you take your RV. There are two major types to choose from.

The first is a standard portable solar panel. These aren’t mounted to your RV. But they’re portable so that you can bring them with you while on the go.

The second option is a thin-film, flexible solar panel, which you can mount directly to your RV, as we’ve shown in the picture above. Each of these options has its place and may be a good fit for people with different goals.

For example, you may also enjoy going camping without your RV. In that case, a standard portable solar panel would allow you to bring your energy creation tool with you even when you don’t have your RV.

On the other hand, if you only go camping with your RV, then installing a thin-film, flexible solar panel will allow you to generate electricity without having to constantly set up and tear down a set of stand-alone solar panels.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of portable RV solar panels?

Pro: No Installation Costs

You don’t have to pay the high installation prices of standard solar panels when you purchase a portable option. This allows you to generate and take advantage of solar power without breaking your budget.

Pro: Highly Portable

RV solar panels are designed to go with you wherever you go. Many even offer some weather resistance so that you get some protection if you encounter some unexpected poor weather.

Pro: Affordable

Portable RV solar panels are also highly affordable. Standard solar panels can cost thousands of dollars. But portable ones for your RV can be purchased for under $1,000 almost always – unless you’re looking for significantly more power generation than average.

Con: Some Require Constant Set Up and Break Down

If you don’t install the RV solar panels on your recreational vehicle, then you’re going to have to set them up and put them away each time you stop. That may not be a deal-breaker for you, but it’s something to keep in mind as you shop.

Con: Possibility of Theft

It’s also important to know that portable solar panels can be a target for thieves. To make sure yours don’t get taken, try to only put them out when you know you’re going to be staying at your RV while they’re in use.

Con: No Power Storage Unless You Purchase Another Product

Finally, stand-alone portable solar panels don’t offer any power storage. You would also need to buy a portable power generator to store the solar energy you create for later use.

How to Choose Portable RV Solar Panels

 

Now that you know the pros and cons of portable RV solar panels, let’s take a look at how you might go about purchasing some.

Here are step-by-step instructions to help you get started.

1. Determine Your Energy Goals

The first thing you want to do is figure out just how much energy you’d like to create with your RV solar panels. This will help you get a sense of the size of panels you need to accomplish your goals.

One thing to note is that portable RV solar panels aren’t designed to produce large amounts of power. They’re perfect for powering small appliances and recharging your electronics. But you likely won’t be able to use them to power everything in your RV at once.

2. Select the Type of RV Solar Panels You Want

Once you have a sense of the size of RV solar panels you need, you can choose between mounted and non-mounted options.

We covered the pros and cons of each of these options in an earlier section, so we won’t go into great detail here. Just note that mounted options are less flexible but don’t require constant setup and tear down, whereas non-mounted options are more flexible but also take more work to use.

3. Pick a Price Point

Now you’re ready to choose a price point. Your charges can vary based on factors like the brand you select and the type of portable solar panels you choose for your RV.

This gives you the flexibility to find an option that gives you the best balance of what you’re looking for at the most affordable price possible.

4. Choose a Brand and Product

At this point, all that’s left to do is select a brand like BougeRV and choose a product. There are plenty of good ones out there, but we’ll give you our favorite options in the next section.

The Best Portable RV Solar Panels of 2023

 

If you’re ready to purchase portable solar panels for your RV, BougeRV makes two excellent products that could be just what you’re looking for.

The first is our Yuma 200W CIGS Thin-Film Flexible Solar Panel. It’s designed to be mounted on top of your RV, and features a lightweight, thin construction that’s durable enough to stand up to the harshest conditions.

 

You can also take a look at our 130W Mono Portable Solar Panel, as shown above. It’s a non-mounted portable solar panel that’s great for RV enthusiasts who are looking for the enhanced flexibility of this kind of product.

It’s another durable, powerfully-constructed product from BougeRV that can provide you with on-the-go energy for years to come.

FAQs About Portable RV Solar Panels

How many watt solar panels do I need for my RV?

This answer depends on your energy goals. But purchasing a 200W portable solar panel for your RV should be enough to keep the battery bank going while not in use.

Can you run an RV air conditioner with solar panels?

Yes, you can run small air conditioners with portable solar panels. Just make sure you check to see how many watts you need before purchasing a portable solar panel with this intention.

How much do RV solar panels cost?

RV solar panels can cost anywhere from around $139 to $1,000+. It really just depends on how much power you want and the kind of RV solar panels you’re looking for.

BougeRV Has the Perfect Portable Solar Panels for Your RV

Whether you want mounted RV solar panels or a portable option that offers enhanced flexibility, BougeRV has a product for you.

Our portable solar panels are some of the most durably-constructed and affordable on the market today. No matter what kinds of solar panels you’re looking for, we have an option designed to suit your RV needs.

Take a look at our website to learn more.