When you decide to take on backpacking as a hobby, then the chances are you might get yourself to areas with no electricity. When this happens, you need the best solar phone charger for backpacking. This way, you would have a source of electricity to recharge your devices and keep in touch with others or take photos of your outdoor activities.
Depending on the model that you buy, some can double as flashlights, compass, and much more. Below is a quick summary of the different solar chargers you can expect in this guide.
| Solar Charger | Brand | Expert Rating | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | BigBlue 3 USB Ports Solar Charger |  | Check Price |
 | Solar Power Bank Qi Portable Charger | | Check Price |
 | FEELLE Solar Power 24000mAh Battery Solar Charger | | Check Price |
 | ADDTOP Solar Charger 25000mAh Portable Solar Power Bank |  | Check Price |
 | Anker 21W 2-Port USB Portable Solar Charger | | Check Price |
How to Choose the Best Solar Phone Charger for Backpacking
The Power Output
You have to consider the amount of power you can get from the solar array. Depending on the number of arrays, you can expect anything from 15 to 21 watts of power.
It is easy to see that having more solar panels per array will generate more power overall. There is no doubt you will have to look at the number of panels you get with each model.
You also have to look at the efficiency of the panels. The last thing you need is to have the best solar phone charger for backpacking, but it does not have the best efficiency.
The panel’s efficiency will determine the energy conversion of the solar panels. It is easy to see that you want a model with the best efficiency.
Build Quality
The model you choose will mainly be used outdoors where the conditions are not always friendly. It is why you need something with the best build quality. This will ensure that you always get yourself a model that can stand up to outdoor use.
Look at the materials used to make the solar charger. Most of the time, it will be ABS plastic. Even if it is plastic, you need to get something that can last you longer to take on different trips.
Power Bank or No Power Bank?
This is a common question among backpackers. The solar chargers will sometimes have a battery attached to them. It comes down to if you want a battery power bank or not. If you intend to use the solar charger at night with no sunlight, go for the model with a power bank.
If you choose a power bank, also consider its battery capacity. Getting a model with more capacity means that you can charge several devices before the battery needs recharging.
Number of Ports
Look at the number of USB ports available since you will be using the best solar phone charger for backpacking to charge your phone and other similar devices. Go for a model with at least two USB ports. This will allow you to charge several devices at the same time.
It would be nice to get a model that offers fast charging and wireless charging where possible. Such additional charging capabilities make the phone charger better in giving you the best usability and versatility.
Weight and Size
It is easy to see that you want a model with the best weight and size options. A compact and lightweight solar phone charger are what you need.
Some models might have several panels per array but still, have a foldable design. The foldable design will help you store the solar charger without taking up too much space. You only have to unfold it when it is time to use it.
Top 5 Best Solar Phone Chargers for Backpacking
Our Top Pick
Our Top Pick: BigBlue 3 USB Ports Solar Charger
Product Name: BigBlue 3 USB Ports Solar Charger
Product Description: This is an updated version meaning it is good in terms of the performance than what you get with the previous model. After its update, the model has 3 USB charging ports. As such, it will be able to charge up to three devices at any given time. The model is also designed to offer safe charging as it has a circuit that prevents overcharging, overheating, and short circuiting. There is no doubt you would have a great charger for your next backpacking session. Having the foldable design makes it easy to carry. Once folded, its size is 11.1 x 6.3 x 1.3 inches. This should leave you with a great solar phone charger to handle all your portability needs. It is still lightweight considering that it only weighs 20.6 ounces. The model is known to have an impressive energy conversion. It is why more people would be comfortable using it knowing that it would last for long for them to handle their power needs. The solar panel surface is also designed to be protect the panel from rain or wet fog. It should then be great to use it in different weather conditions.
Availability: InStock
-
Charging Power
-
Quality
-
Sturdiness
-
Waetherproof
-
Ease of Use
Overall
Summary
This solar charger is great when it comes to versatility. This is because it is compatible with different 5V Android devices. So long as it can be charged using USB, then it can work with this solar charger. For its size and weight, it is going to be a great choice for those who love backpacking.
Having high energy conversion makes it a highly efficient solar panel charger. It will need just a bit of sunlight for it to start charging. Having multiple USB ports makes it ideal to charge different devices at the same time.
Pros
✔️It comes with multiple USB ports
✔️It is compact and lightweight
✔️The model has a wide compatibility
Cons
❌It lacks a battery power bank for the price
Runner’s Up
Solar Power Bank Qi Portable Charger
Besides being the best solar phone charger for backpacking, it also stands out as a great power bank. The power bank has a battery capacity of 10,000mAh, ideal for charging different devices without being quickly drained.
To make it better, it also supports Qi wireless charging. So, if your phone comes with wireless charging capability, you place it on the wireless charging pad, and you are good to go. Do not worry, as it will also be compatible with those who need to use USB chargers. You connect to the USB ports and connect to the device.
Many people love it for being sturdy, durable, and compact. Since you will mainly be using it outdoors, you need something sturdy just in case you drop it. The manufacturer uses strong ABS material to ensure you have the best durability.
Looking at its size, you will find it is a compact product that will not take up much space in your backpack.
It also comes with a dual flashlight feature and a compass kit. It is easy to see that it can be a versatile product. It can work for different outdoor activities such as hunting, hiking, cycling, and camping.
FEELLE Solar Power 24000mAh Battery Solar Charger
If you are looking for a model with more battery capacity, then this is it. The model comes with an eco-friendly 24000mAh Li-Polymer battery to ensure that you end up with the best battery for outdoor use. For its size, it can charge different devices at the same time several times a day.
The model also has up to three solar panels. These high-efficiency solar panels are all about giving you the best performance while outdoors. High efficiency makes the solar panels utilize any small amount of sunlight to charge the battery and phone.
Having multiple solar panels makes it easier to recharge the battery faster compared to other models with a single panel. In some cases, it can recharge itself 3 to 5 times faster than the other solar chargers.
The model is also good in terms of charging your phone faster. Yes, the model comes with fast charging capability. With the two USB ports, you can now recharge two devices simultaneously with ease.
The model is also great in terms of providing light. This is because it comes with an LED flashlight with three modes. You can now find this model being great for camping, traveling, and any other emergency use.
ADDTOP Solar Charger 25000mAh Portable Solar Power Bank
If you still want the best solar phone charger for backpacking, then you should still consider this model. It stands out for its battery capacity that will come in handy for different outdoor activities. The model can recharge an iPhone 6 ten times for its battery size. You can easily see that its battery capacity will be ideal for recharging various devices over and over.
Looking at the solar panels, we find that it comes with four foldable solar panels. Having four panels delivers better charging capability than relying on a single panel. The best part is that the panels can be folded into a small and lightweight package. It should then easily fit in your backpack and only unfold it when required.
This model also stands out with its fast charging capability. It comes with the option of charging two devices at the same time. Both ports are equipped with fast charging capabilities. As such, it will be ideal in improving the charging capacity.
The model also comes with emergency LED lights. This is where you can use the LED light to illuminate the darkness while on your backpacking trip. The bright LED light should give you a sense of security each time you walk in darkness.
Anker 21W 2-Port USB Portable Solar Charger
Anker is a top brand for making different types of electronics, and it would be an excellent brand for the best solar phone charger for backpacking. Considering the brand has sold over 50 million electronic products worldwide, you are sure many people trust them to create high-quality products.
This model stands out for having fast charging technology. This is because it comes with the PowerIQ charging capability. This is where the model can deliver an impressive 2.4 amps per USB port. This can improve up to 3 amps in direct sunlight. As such, you can recharge your phone a lot faster.
The 21W solar array is all about improving the charging time of the unit. The best part is that the array has 21.5 to 23.5% efficiency. With this kind of efficiency, the array will still charge the different devices even in low sunlight exposure.
Another thing you will like about this model should be the compact size of the whole unit. When folded, it can easily fit in your backpack. The stainless-steel eye holes make it easy to attach to the top of your backpack, trees, or tents.
FAQs
Are solar chargers reliable?
Many models in the market are pretty reliable. You will not have to worry about charging your devices more often outdoors when you get one. Just make sure that you get a quality unit that can be durable for years of use.
How fast can you recharge your phone with a solar phone charger?
It will depend on the solar phone charging technology. Some models come with fast charging capability. This means that your phone can recharge a lot faster.
Are solar phone chargers waterproof?
Because the solar phone chargers are designed to be used outdoors, they are mostly waterproofed. The same goes for their USB ports so that you can use them without worrying about the different weather conditions.
Are solar chargers worth it for backpacking?
Solar chargers can be worth it for backpacking if you will be in areas with reliable sunlight and need to charge small electronic devices such as phones, cameras, or GPS devices. However, they may not be as effective in areas with limited sunlight or if you need to charge larger devices such as laptops. Additionally, it is important to consider the weight and size of the solar charger as it will add to the weight of your backpack. Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
Is a solar charger better than a power bank backpacking?
It depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the backpacking trip. A solar charger can be better for extended trips in areas with consistent sunlight. A power bank may be more practical for shorter trips or in areas with inconsistent sunlight. Ultimately, the decision between a solar charger and power bank will depend on factors such as trip length, location, and power needs.
Conclusion
The best solar phone charger for backpacking needs to give you the best power for recharging your phone and other USB-powered devices. Depending on your needs, you can always choose the best models from the list above. If you need something that you can still use even when the sun goes down, then go for the one with a power bank. If a power bank is not an issue, then choose the other types that can provide enough power to recharge the phone when there is sunlight.
