Hiking is an excellent way to connect with nature and get some exercise. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, having a reliable source of power for your electronic devices is essential. That’s where hiking solar chargers come in. These chargers use the power of the sun to charge your devices, making them a convenient and eco-friendly choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
When it comes to choosing the best hiking solar charger, there are a few critical factors to consider. First, you’ll want to look at the charger’s power output. The higher the output, the faster your devices will charge. You’ll also want to consider the size and weight of the charger, as well as its durability and weather resistance. Finally, you’ll want to think about the type of devices you’ll be charging and whether the charger is compatible with them.
After researching and testing various hiking solar chargers, we’ve identified the top products on the market. In this article, we’ll share our findings and help you choose the best hiking solar charger for your needs.
Best Hiking Solar Chargers
3. 4Patriots Patriot Power Cell CX: Portable Solar Power Bank
As avid hikers, we know the importance of staying connected with the world while on the trail. Whether it’s for emergency situations or simply to capture breathtaking views, having a reliable source of power is essential. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best hiking solar chargers on the market. These chargers are not only lightweight and portable, but they also harness the power of the sun to keep your devices charged and ready to go. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best hiking solar chargers.
Durecopow Solar Charger
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable solar charger for your outdoor activities, the Durecopow Solar Charger is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The solar charger is water-resistant, shock-resistant, and dustproof, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
- It comes with a carabiner, compass, and 2 LED flashlights, making it a convenient tool to have during emergencies.
- You can charge two devices simultaneously with its dual USB ports.
Cons
- The solar panel charging efficiency may be influenced by natural conditions and random factors, so it may take a long time to be charged.
- The battery pack may not charge to 100% when charging via solar power alone.
- The device may have a shorter lifespan if exposed to extreme temperatures.
We used the Durecopow Solar Charger during a recent camping trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The charger is easy to use and has a compact design, making it easy to carry in our backpacks. We were able to charge our smartphones and tablets simultaneously, and the LED flashlights were bright enough to light up our tent during the night.
One thing to note is that the solar panel charging efficiency may be affected by natural conditions such as day and night, season, and weather. However, we found that charging the device via USB was fast and efficient.
Overall, we highly recommend the Durecopow Solar Charger for anyone looking for a reliable and durable solar charger for their outdoor activities. It’s a great investment that can provide convenience and peace of mind during emergencies.
Tranmix Solar Charger
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient solar charger for your outdoor adventures, the Tranmix Solar Charger is a great option.
Pros
- With its 25000mAh capacity, this solar power bank can charge your phone up to 6-8 times and your tablet up to 2 times, making it a great power source for extended outdoor trips.
- Equipped with 4 high-performance solar panels, this solar charger can charge your devices up to 4 times faster than a single panel charger, making it a convenient and time-saving option.
- The dual USB ports allow you to charge two devices simultaneously, and the fast charging technology can charge your phone from 0% to 50% in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for emergencies.
Cons
- While the solar panels offer a convenient way to charge your devices, it can take up to 8 hours to fully charge the power bank through USB cable, which might not be ideal for some users.
- The solar panels are not as efficient in low light conditions, so it might not be the best option for extended use in cloudy or rainy weather.
- The charger is a bit heavy, weighing at 1.12 pounds, which might not be ideal for ultralight backpackers.
We recently took the Tranmix Solar Charger on a camping trip, and we were impressed by its performance. The charger was able to charge our phones and tablets quickly and efficiently, and the 4 solar panels made it easy to recharge the power bank during the day. The LED flashlight was also a great addition, as it provided a convenient light source during the night.
While the charger is a bit heavy, it was still easy to pack and carry around, and the waterproof silicone cover provided great protection against dust, shock, and splash. Overall, we highly recommend the Tranmix Solar Charger for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient solar charger for their outdoor adventures.
4Patriots Patriot Power Cell CX: Portable Solar Power Bank
We highly recommend the 4Patriots Patriot Power Cell CX for anyone looking for a reliable and durable hiking solar charger.
Pros
- The 5-inch solar panel lets you recharge the 8,000 mAh lithium ion battery without cords or outlets, making it perfect for emergencies, camping, hiking or traveling.
- The rubberized exterior protects your external battery against drops, and the water-resistant feature helps it stand up to rain during travel.
- The 3 USB ports let you charge multiple devices at once, and the strong lithium-ion battery can recharge up to 500 cycles.
Cons
- The LED flashlight could be brighter.
- The solar panel could be larger for faster charging.
- The included micro-USB cord could be longer.
The 4Patriots Patriot Power Cell CX is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and durable hiking solar charger. The rechargeable solar panel lets you charge your devices anywhere you have sun, and the water-resistant feature means you don’t have to worry about rain or splashes. With 3 USB ports, you can charge multiple devices at once, and the strong lithium-ion battery can recharge up to 500 cycles. The super-bright LED flashlight is a nice bonus, but could be brighter.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable hiking solar charger that can keep your critical devices powered up in a pinch, the 4Patriots Patriot Power Cell CX is a great choice.
BigBlue Solar Charger
We highly recommend the BigBlue Solar Charger for hikers and campers who want to stay connected while off the grid. This portable solar panel is lightweight, easy to use, and can charge up to three devices at once.
Pros
- The BigBlue Solar Charger has three USB ports, allowing you to charge multiple devices at once. The smart charge technology recognizes your device and provides optimal charging speed, ensuring 100% safe charging with overcurrent, overheating, and short-circuit protection.
- The highly efficient SunPower solar panel converts up to 24% of solar power into free energy in enough sunlight, making it one of the most durable panels at present, standing up to elements and wear and tear better than conventional panels. The special PET polymer surface protects the solar panel from occasional rain or wet fog, and three ports are covered with a rubber cover to protect them from dust or water damage.
- With its compact size (11.6 × 6.3× 1.3in folded) and lightweight (20.5 oz) design, the BigBlue Solar Charger is portable and light enough to fit into any camping backpack or hiking daypack. It is also a must-have for stashing in an emergency kit.
Cons
- The BigBlue Solar Charger can’t store the electricity and can’t charge laptops and iPad Pro.
- Any cloud or cover may influence the charging speed, so it’s not the best option for areas with little sunlight.
- The USB-A port is too exposed to potential scratches and damage, so extra handling care is required.
The BigBlue Solar Charger is an excellent option for hikers and campers who want to stay connected while off the grid. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and can charge up to three devices at once. The highly efficient SunPower solar panel and smart charge technology ensure 100% safe charging with overcurrent, overheating, and short-circuit protection. However, it can’t store electricity and can’t charge laptops and iPad Pro. If you want a portable and durable solar charger for your phone and small electronics, the BigBlue Solar Charger is a great choice.
Kepswin Solar Charger
We highly recommend the Kepswin Solar Charger for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient portable power bank for outdoor activities.
Pros
- The Kepswin Solar Charger has a high-quality mobile battery that can charge 99% of USB devices.
- It has two USB outputs, making it easy to share with friends or family.
- The solar power bank is equipped with a compass and two LED flashlights, making it an essential outdoor equipment.
Cons
- Solar charging can take a long time, so it’s recommended to use USB charging for daily use.
- The solar charging speed is subject to sunlight intensity and panel conversion rate.
- It may not be suitable for heavy-duty use or charging larger devices.
The Kepswin Solar Charger is a great option for anyone who loves outdoor activities. The portable solar charger is equipped with a compass and two LED flashlights, making it an essential outdoor equipment. It has a high-quality mobile battery that can charge 99% of USB devices. The power bank has a protective cover attached to the outside of the charging/discharging port, making it waterproof and dustproof. Plus, it comes with a carabiner, which you can hang on your backpack while climbing the mountain and charge this power bank through solar energy.
The Kepswin Solar Charger has two USB outputs, making it easy to share with friends or family. It also has four USB charging indicators on the solar power bank, making it easy to know when it’s fully charged. The green light is on when charging by solar, and the blue light is on when USB charging. Additionally, two super bright LED flashlights with SOS mode are built for emergencies. It is an ideal companion for camping, traveling, and hiking, among other outdoor activities.
The solar phone charger can be recharged via USB as well as through the solar panels. However, the charging speed is subject to sunlight intensity and panel conversion rate, which may take a long time to charge. As such, USB charging is recommended for your daily use, and solar charging is for emergency purposes only. It is also CE, UL certified for safe and secure use.
In conclusion, the Kepswin Solar Charger is a great investment for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors and needs a reliable and efficient portable power bank. It is made from eco-friendly silicone, ABS, and PC materials, making it sturdy, durable, and waterproof. If you have any questions about this battery pack, please feel free to contact us.
BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient solar charger, the BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger is a great option to consider.
Pros
- With 24% higher conversion efficiency, this solar charger generates energy from the sunlight and provides unlimited green power for your device under the sun.
- The foldable design and lightweight material make it easy to carry around while hiking or walking around town.
- The durable premium oxford cloth cover and ETFE high light transmission film make it waterproof and dustproof, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, picnics, and unexpected power outages.
Cons
- The ports face the storage pouch, making it difficult to use the panel and have anything in the pouch at all.
- It slow charges some devices, and some users have reported that it will not charge their power bank.
- The output is not as fast as some other solar chargers on the market.
We recently took the BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger on a hiking trip and were impressed with its performance. The solar panels are made with premium mono-crystalline solar cells, which offer 24% higher conversion efficiency than other solar chargers, providing unlimited green power for your device under the sun. We were able to charge our smartphones and tablets quickly and efficiently, and the dual USB output ports make it compatible with a wide range of devices.
The foldable design and lightweight material make it easy to carry around while hiking or walking around town. The attachment hook makes it ideal for connecting to your backpack, ensuring a smooth user experience. Additionally, the durable premium oxford cloth cover and ETFE high light transmission film make it waterproof and dustproof, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, picnics, and unexpected power outages.
While the BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger is a great option for most outdoor activities, some users have reported that it slow charges some devices and will not charge their power bank. Additionally, the ports face the storage pouch, making it difficult to use the panel and have anything in the pouch at all. However, overall, we highly recommend the BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient solar charger for their outdoor activities.
YELOMIN Solar Charger Power Bank
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable solar charger for your outdoor activities, the YELOMIN Solar Charger Power Bank is a great option. With its large battery capacity and multiple charging ports, you can keep all your devices alive while on the go.
Pros
- The 42800mAh battery capacity allows for multiple charges of your devices, providing peace of mind when you’re away from a power source.
- The charger can power up to three devices simultaneously, making it convenient for sharing with friends and family.
- The sturdy and durable design is waterproof, shockproof, and dust-proof, making it suitable for harsh outdoor environments.
Cons
- The solar charging feature is not as efficient as charging via a wall outlet, so it’s best used as an emergency backup solution.
- The USB cable in the package is only used to charge the solar charger, not other devices.
- The charger is a bit heavy and bulky, making it less portable than other solar chargers.
Overall, the YELOMIN Solar Charger Power Bank is a reliable and durable option for your outdoor adventures. Its large battery capacity and multiple charging ports make it a great choice for sharing with others, and its sturdy design can withstand harsh environments. However, its solar charging feature is not as efficient as wall charging, and it’s a bit heavy and bulky.
Paragraph 1: The YELOMIN Solar Charger Power Bank is a great option for those who enjoy outdoor activities and need a reliable and durable solar charger. With its large battery capacity and multiple charging ports, you can keep all your devices powered up while on the go.
Paragraph 2: The charger’s sturdy and durable design is waterproof, shockproof, and dust-proof, making it suitable for harsh outdoor environments. It also features dual super bright LED lights, making it a must-have tool for outdoor activities and home emergencies.
Paragraph 3: While the solar charging feature is not as efficient as wall charging, it’s still a useful emergency backup solution. However, the USB cable in the package is only used to charge the solar charger, not other devices. Additionally, the charger is a bit heavy and bulky, making it less portable than other solar chargers.
In summary, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable solar charger for your outdoor adventures, the YELOMIN Solar Charger Power Bank is a great option. Its large battery capacity and multiple charging ports make it a convenient choice for sharing with others, and its sturdy design can withstand harsh environments.
FlexSolar 10W Portable Solar Chargers
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable solar charger for your outdoor adventures, the FlexSolar 10W Portable Solar Charger is a great option.
Pros
- The built-in USB-A output port allows you to directly connect your devices to the sunlight and charge them, making it perfect for charging phones, small power banks, tablets, USB fans, flashlights, smartwatches, portable WIFI, and other small electronic devices.
- The integrated IC automatically detects the connected devices and provides optimized charging, and an included LED light shows the charging status, ensuring 100% safe charging with overcurrent, overheating, and short-circuit protection.
- The rugged solar panels utilize ETFE film lamination and encapsulation technologies, providing good light transmittance and weather resistance ability. The monocrystalline A+ solar panels efficiently convert solar energy into electric energy with a conversion rate up to 24%. The IP67 protection class allows it to work under unexpected weather conditions, making it perfect for outdoor power emergency.
Cons
- The total power is only 10W, so it’s not suitable for charging high-capacity devices like laptops or large power banks.
- The junction box is not waterproof, so you need to be careful when using it in wet conditions.
- The charging time depends on the capacity of the device, so it may take longer to charge larger devices.
We highly recommend the FlexSolar 10W Portable Solar Charger for anyone who wants a reliable and portable solar charger for their outdoor adventures. It’s lightweight, foldable, and comes with two carabiners, making it easy to carry in your backpack or hang on your tent. However, it’s not suitable for charging high-capacity devices like laptops or large power banks, and you need to be careful when using it in wet conditions. Overall, it’s a great investment for anyone who wants to stay connected and powered up while enjoying the great outdoors.
FlexSolar 15W Solar Panel Charger
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable solar charger for your outdoor adventures, the FlexSolar 15W Solar Panel Charger is a great option.
Pros
- The built-in USB-A output port allows you to directly connect your small electronic devices, such as phones, tablets, and smartwatches, in the sunlight and charge them efficiently.
- The intelligent chip automatically identifies your connected devices and adjusts the output current to offer the fastest charging speed, while the LED indicator visually monitors the working status.
- The rugged solar panels chargers are encased in ETFE film lamination and encapsulation technologies, which provide good light transmittance and weather resistance ability, and made of the monocrystalline A+ that efficiently converts solar energy into electric energy with a conversion rate up to 24%.
Cons
- The solar charger cannot store power, and the charging time depends on the capacity of your electronic devices.
- The junction box is not waterproof, so you need to be careful when using it in wet conditions.
- The charger’s total power is only 15W, so charging through glass may degrade the quality of light and affect the efficiency of the panels’ conversion to electricity.
We tested the FlexSolar 15W Solar Panel Charger on our recent camping trip, and it performed exceptionally well. The foldable and lightweight design made it easy to carry in our backpacks, and the included carabiners allowed us to hang it on our tents to capture more sunlight. The charger’s rugged construction and IP67 protection class also ensured its durability and reliability in unexpected weather conditions.
Overall, if you’re looking for a portable and efficient solar charger for your outdoor adventures, the FlexSolar 15W Solar Panel Charger is a great choice.
Nekteck 28W Portable Solar Panel Charger
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient solar charger for your outdoor adventures, the Nekteck 28W Portable Solar Panel Charger might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The Maxeon cells make this solar panel more efficient than others on the market, providing up to 28W of power with 24% efficiency.
- This solar charger can charge two devices simultaneously, with a max output of 5V/4.0A.
- The IPX4 technology makes it waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and heat resistant, making it perfect for any outdoor activity.
Cons
- The USB-A to Lightning cable is not included, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you have an iPhone.
- The weight of 650g might be a bit heavy for some hikers who are looking to pack light.
- The charging speed might be slower than some other solar chargers on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend the Nekteck 28W Portable Solar Panel Charger for anyone who is looking for a durable and efficient solar charger for their outdoor adventures. With its high efficiency, dual device charging capability, and waterproof design, this solar charger is a reliable companion for any hiking trip.
In terms of performance, we were impressed by how fast it charged our devices, even on cloudy days. The build quality is also top-notch, with durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions. The included carabiner clips and zippered pouch make it easy to attach to your backpack and store your phone and batteries.
If you’re looking for a solar charger that can keep up with your outdoor adventures, the Nekteck 28W Portable Solar Panel Charger is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best hiking solar charger, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind before making your purchase:
Power Output
The power output of a solar charger is measured in watts and determines how quickly it can charge your devices. When selecting a solar charger, consider the power output you need based on the devices you’ll be charging. Look for a charger with a power output of at least 10 watts, which should be sufficient for charging most smartphones and small electronics.
Portability
Since you’ll be carrying your solar charger with you on your hike, it’s important to choose one that is lightweight and portable. Look for a charger that is compact and easy to pack, and consider the weight of the charger as well.
Durability
Your solar charger will be exposed to the elements while you’re hiking, so it’s important to choose one that is durable and can withstand the outdoors. Look for a charger with a rugged, waterproof design that can handle rain, dust, and other environmental factors.
Compatibility
Make sure the solar charger you choose is compatible with the devices you’ll be charging. Look for a charger with multiple charging ports and compatibility with a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and cameras.
Battery Capacity
Some solar chargers come with a built-in battery, which can be useful for storing power and charging your devices later. Consider the battery capacity of the charger, which is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), and choose one that has enough capacity to charge your devices multiple times.
Price
Solar chargers can vary in price, so it’s important to consider your budget when making your selection. Look for a charger that offers the features you need at a price point that works for you.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best hiking solar charger for your needs and enjoy a fully charged device while exploring the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backpack solar chargers effective for hiking?
Yes, backpack solar chargers are effective for hiking. They are lightweight and designed to charge your electronic devices while you are on the move. However, the effectiveness of the charger depends on the quality of the product and the amount of sunlight available.
What is the difference between a solar charger and a solar power bank?
A solar charger is a device that directly converts sunlight into electricity and charges your electronic devices. On the other hand, a solar power bank is a portable battery that stores the solar energy and later uses it to charge your devices. Both are useful for hiking, but a solar power bank is more suitable for longer trips or when there is limited sunlight.
Is a solar portable charger worth it for camping?
Yes, a solar portable charger is worth it for camping. It allows you to charge your devices without relying on an electrical outlet, which is especially useful when camping in remote areas. However, it is important to choose a high-quality product with a good charging speed and durability.
What are the best hiking solar chargers on Amazon?
Some of the best hiking solar chargers on Amazon are the BigBlue 28W Solar Charger, the Anker PowerPort Solar Lite, and the RAVPower Solar Charger. These products have received positive reviews from customers and are known for their durability and charging speed.
Can the Big Blue Solar Charger withstand rugged terrain?
Yes, the Big Blue Solar Charger is designed to withstand rugged terrain. It is made of durable materials and is water-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
Is a military grade solar phone charger necessary for hiking?
No, a military grade solar phone charger is not necessary for hiking. While it may offer additional durability and protection, there are many high-quality solar chargers available that are suitable for hiking and camping. It is important to choose a product that meets your specific needs and budget.
