Tired of noises and smells from traditional generators? I bet you need an alternative source of power for your camping trips. If so, take a look at the six best solar generators for camping below.
I have carefully selected these items for camping purpose, which are highly transportable and practical. Read on and decide which one is best for you.
| Top 6 Best Solar Generators For Camping | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | Suaoki S270
| Read Our Review |
All-in-one Solar Kit | Renogy Phoenix
| Read Our Review |
EasyFocus 280WH
| Read Our Review | |
Premium Choice | Goal Zero Yeti 400
| Read Our Review |
Jackery Explorer 440
| Read Our Review | |
Highest Capacity | Suaoki G500
| Read Our Review |
Suaoki S270 Portable Power Station
- Accommodate multiple devices at the same time
- MC4 Connector makes it easy to connect with solar panels
- Features cutting-edge technology such as Quick Charge 3.0 and MPPT
- The lightest generator in the list
- Solar panels are not included
Suaoki S270 will be the first item I want to mention in this review. This compact eco generator is what many campers need for their trips.
Since the generator is powered by electricity, it emits no harmful smell or gas. It requires no fuel engine, thus functioning quietly. This is a big plus for solar generators compared to other kinds.
When it comes to the power capacity, this small item offers a 150Wh station to charge camping appliances.
It features AC/DC/USB outputs, which are suitable for laptop, phones, led lights , and small fans. For a comfortable trip, the S270 guarantees to be the most reliable power bank.
What’s more, this product adopts front-line technology such as Quick Charge 3.0 and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking). These two features ensure that the high voltage DC will match with the lower voltage of camping appliances.
This product is a multi-device power station. Designed with 4 USB ports, 2 AC ports and 4 DC ports, this little guy can handle different electrical devices at the same time.
I highly value the portability of Suaoki S270. The design is compact, meaning it doesn’t eat up space.
Plus, the unit weighs only 2.9 lbs. It also features two collapsible handles for transportation. This is an ideal item to take on your camping trips.
Suaoki S270 doesn’t include solar panels, so if you want one you have to purchase separately. It is an excellent option for those who have already owned a solar panel.
Using the MC4 connector, this small generator converts and keep energy for later use. It takes roughly 8 hours to charge the power bank.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 150Wh |
| Running Watts | 100W |
| Peak Watts | 150W |
| Recharging Methods | DC Input/ Solar Panels/ Car charger |
| Out Put | 2 AC ports, 4 DC ports, 4 USB ports |
| Weight | 2.9 lbs |
| Size | 7.3 x 4.3 x 4.7 inches |
| Voltage | 110 V |
| Highlight Features | MC4 connector, Quick Charge 3.0 and MPPT |
With its cutting-edge technology, this Suaoki S270 portable generator promises a reliable source of energy for camping.
This is a must-have item for many campers who are looking for an alternative green source of power.
Renogy Phoenix Portable Generator
- The briefcase shape is easy to carry around
- Features different power options
- Built-in solar panel
- Power capacity is quite low
Renogy Phoenix Portable Generator, a compact and portable powering briefcase, is the second item worth your attention.
While the powering capacity of the Renogy Phoenix could be a drawback for those who have a lot of electrical devices, it does a relatively good job supplying reliable energy for multiple necessary things such as phones and tablets.
It features 4 US ports with output capacity off 5V/2.4A. The maximum output would be 6A in total. This allows the generator to provide power for most USB chargeable items, expect the ones using Quick Charge.
Other than that, the generator features 1 AC and 1 DC ports. It means that small lamps, mini fans, and laptop could receive power from the Renogy Phoenix.
For those who go on a car camping trip with this generator, you can also charge 12V-outlet devices with built-in cigarette socket.
The good news is that the Renogy Phoenix offers an integral solar panel of 20 Watts. The front part includes an LCD screen showing power percentage.
As for the design, I particularly like the briefcase shape. The weight of this item is roughly 12.8 lbs. You can certainly carry this product around without any trouble.
Featuring sturdy structure and material, the Renogy Phoenix is highly water-and-dust-resistant once you close the briefcase. It is not advised to expose this product to water.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 190Wh |
| Running Watts | 150W |
| Peak Watts | 170W |
| Recharging methods | solar, AC power, or car power, CiG port |
| Out Put | 1 AC ports, 2 DC ports, 4 USB ports |
| Weight | 12.8 lbs |
| Size | 13.8 x 16.1 x 3.9 in |
| Voltage | 110 V |
| Highlight Features | LCD Readout, 3W LED, MPPT Charging Technology |
Renogy Phoenix Portable Generator is a suitable choice for those who love renewable energy.
Featuring a built-in solar panel, Renogy is indeed an economical option for hardcore campers.
EasyFocus Portable Power Station 200Wh Solar Generator
- Built-in Led flashlight
- Features 5 safety modes
- Work perfectly with CPAP machines
- Must buy a solar panel separately
If you are looking for a generator with many useful features, EasyFocus Portable Power Station 200Wh Solar Generator is undoubtedly a good candidate.
When it comes to safety, this small generator is an expert. It features five safety modes, including protection for short circuit, over current, over power, low voltage, and high temperature. With the EasyFocus Power Station, powering appliances have never been so easy.
This item offers a power capacity of 200Wh. It provides adequate electricity for small camping appliances such as mini-fridges, lights, fans, smartphones and laptops.
EasyFocus Power Station is versatile. It comes with three 100V/110V AC ports, 4 DC ports with one extra cigarette socket cable and 4 USB ports. This way, you can supply power to different camping appliances such as smartphones, laptops, mini fridges and so on.
As for the design, EasyFocus is indeed a movable power source. This is a lightweight generator with a small size of 9.1 x 4.3 x 5.2 inches. No matter where you go, as long as there is sunlight, this item can function correctly.
One drawback is the solar panel is sold separately. The price of a solar panel can add up to the total cost, thus making it less ideal for buyers on a tight budget.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 200Wh |
| Running Watts | 300W |
| Peak Watts | 600W |
| Recharging methods | DC Input/ Solar Panels/ Car charger |
| Out Put | 4*DC ports, 4*USB ports, 3*AC ports |
| Weight | 5.2 lbs |
| Size | 9.1*4.3*5.2 in |
| Voltage | 110V |
| Highlight Features | 5 safety protection, MC4 connector, LED flashlight |
EasyFocus supplies stable energy for multiple products while offering built-in features such as safety modes and light for enjoyable camping trips.
This is undoubtedly a product of value.
Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar Generator
- 350 Lumen LED light
- Sturdy build
- Cool design
- Producer also offers solar panels specially designed for this model
- Quite bulky compared to other products
The Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar Generator is an on-the-go generator with the durable design and useful features.
Unlike the EasyFocus and Suaoki, this product is not as lightweight as these two. Before you start to write the Goal Zero off from your list of portable products, let me remind you that most of its weight comes from the 396W ATM Battery.
What’s more, the pure sine wave inverter and sturdy case take the blame for the weight as well. However, I never consider this a shortcoming. After all, we can lift a 29-lbs item and carry it around the campsite with ease.
I have to admit that the overall design of this generator reminds me of the 90s radio. Those who love rustic antiquities would undoubtedly fall in love with this item at first sight.
If you are a frequent camper who want to stay in touch with modern life, you need the Goal Zero Yeti 400. This portable power bank is excellent when it comes to providing energy for camping necessities, including those sensitive devices such as smartphones and laptops.
Its power capacity is up to 400Wh. It can’t, of course, power those energy-hungry appliances, but for simple camping applications such as lights, mini fridges or emergency radio, this generator work flawlessly.
I particularly like the 350 Lumen LED light. It can lighten the whole kitchen for an extended period.
You can use Yeti 400 Solar Generator with a 20W solar panel also made by Zero Goal. You have to pay extra for the panel. If a 20W panel isn’t enough, you should consider buying a package of 2 panels or go for a 50W one.
So far the Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar Generator is my favorite product on the list. It comes with lots of cool features and a full set of connectors to ensure the power supply for your trips.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 396Wh |
| Running Watts | 300W |
| Peak Watts | 600W |
| Recharging Methods | DC Input/ Solar Panels/ Car charger |
| Out Put | USB port, 12V car port, 6mm port, AC inverter |
| Weight | 29 lbs |
| Size | 10.25 x 8 x 8 in |
| Voltage | 110V |
| Highlight Features | low-battery protection |
So far the Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar Generator is my favorite product on the list. It comes with lots of cool features and a full set of connectors to ensure the power supply for your trips.
Jackery Portable Power Station Generator 440
- Solid-build jacks and ports
- Feature safety modes
- LCD and LED light
- Comes with 2 years of warranty
- No solar panel included
- Only two recharging methods
Jackery Portable Power Station Generator 440 is a relatively new product that receives many positive remarks recently.
With the capacity of 440Wh, this generator can power more electrical devices from phones, tablets, lights to CPAP machine, mini fridges and other small devices. It features 2 DC ports, 2 USB ports, and 1 AC ports.
Compared to other generators above, the limited outlets could mean that you can’t charge many devices at the same time. Still, I don’t find this a big problem.
What’s great about this item is that it features a lithium battery which emits no fumes and noise. It takes roughly 8 to 10 hours to charge this generator using solar energy fully. With a wall socket, the maximum charging length is 8 hours.
Compared to the Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar Generator, the Jackery is lighter. It weighs 12.57 lbs and comes with a size of 11.81 x 9.45 x 7.48 inches. It can visually fit my hand!
What I love about solar generators is that they are very compact and easy to store. And this small generator does that perfectly.
The Jackery Portable Power Station Generator 440 also emphasizes the reliability. It adopts the surge and short circuit alert to protect the interior part from damages. This product also features LED light and an LCD to help users keep track of the battery level.
The drawback of this model could come from the fact that it has only two recharging methods. You can’t charge it through car socket like its counterparts. This item doesn’t include solar panel, so you have to buy one yourself.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 440Wh |
| Running Watts | 300W |
| Peak Watts | 500W |
| Recharging Methods | DC Input/ Solar Panels |
| Out Put | 1 AC port, 2 DC ports, 3 USB ports, 1 car port |
| Weight | 12.57 lbs |
| Size | 11.81 x 9.45 x 7.48 in |
| Voltage | 110V |
| Highlight Features | LCD screen, built-in LED flashlight, surge protection, short circuit protection |
The Jackery Portable Power Station Generator 440 is a well-built eco generator with excellent safety modes and built-in features for your camping trips. I highly recommend this product.
Suaoki G500 Portable Power Station
- High power capacity
- Accommodate up to 8 devices
- Exclusive features: themovent and Anderson Powerpole
- Solar panels need to be purchased separately
- Must disconnect the solar panel to use the outlet
The Suaoki G500 offers the highest power rating in the list as well as many premium features.
This small generator has 500Wh of capacity to power most mobile electronic devices. Even when you are camping in the middle of nowhere, you can still have access to most necessities such as laptops, phones, and other small kitchen and household items.
According to Suaoki, this machine can power mini fridge up to 9 hours, smartphones up to 40 times.
It does provide a reliable and continuous source of power, making camping away as enjoyable as possible.
The sine wave inverter from Suaoki ensures that sensitive devices such as laptops or smartphones are protected.
Thanks to the design, this generator can accommodate up to 8 devices at one time. It features 3-prong AC port for common household appliances, DC ports, and a cigarette socket for small camping devices. USB ports are for smartphones and tablets.
Though this model doesn’t feature a LED light as other models, it does offer an LCD display so that you can keep track of the battery life.
When it comes to weight, the Suaoki G500 is a bit bulky. Though I do believe that 22.05 lbs are not a big deal at all, some people could still prefer lighter solar generators.
A big plus for the transportability is that this product features a lift handle.
There is one problem with the design though. I have to disconnect my solar panel if I want to switch to the outlet. As a result, the power station drains energy very fast. What’s more, solar panels need to be purchased separately.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 500Wh |
| Running Watts | 300W |
| Surge Watts | 600W |
| Recharging methods | DC Input/ Solar Panels/ Car charger |
| Out Put | 300W AC ports, 72W / 12V DC ports, QC3.0 USB ports, 10A / 12V car socket |
| Weight | 22.05 lbs |
| Size | 11 x 7.5 x 8.3 in |
| Voltage | 110V |
| Highlight Features | Anderson Powerpole, LCD display, themovent |
Overall, the Suaoki G500 is suitable for campers who want to a power station with high power rating. It also comes with exclusive features, ensuring that your appliances stay powered.
FAQs
How many watts do I need for my camping appliances?
What would you bring for your camping trips? Most of the hardcore campers will try to carry only necessary appliances. As for me, I try to be a minimalist camper.
That’s the reason why I stumble upon solar generators and start using them. At first, I also asked myself how many watts do I need for all of my stuff.
Though I don’t bring much, I don’t want to invest money on something to can only power half of my appliances.
I did my research and found out that if you only bring small electronic devices and mini household appliances, you don’t need many watts.
Take a look at this table to find out how much wattage you need to run your camping appliances.
| Items | Running watts |
| Mini light | 25 |
| Shaver | 35 |
| Laptop | 50-75 |
| Clock Radio | 50 |
| Radio | 8 |
| Portable Fan | 100 |
| Smartphone | 5 |
How much is a portable solar panel?
Solar panels are an alternative source of clean power. Eco campers who are tired of noises and fumes from traditional generators often go for solar products.
The problem is not every solar power bank includes solar panel. Purchasing an extra board could add up to the total payment for a clean-energy generator.
The price of a portable solar panel varies depending on different factors. Typically, you can pretty much tell the price from the power capacity.
That means panels with higher power rating cost much more than those of lower power capacity. What’s more, polycrystalline solar cells are often more affordable than the monocrystalline ones.
The cheapest unit you can find costs less than $10. Depending on the capacity, one has to pay over $250 for a panel with high capacity.
What should I use to clean my solar panels?
If you want to maintain the panels’ efficiency, you must keep them under careful maintenance. The maintaining process involves frequent cleaning. So how to clean a solar panel?
I am not talking about those massive solar panels on the rooftop. To clean those, you certainly need a good ladder. What I mention here is portable solar panels for camping.
The good news is you don’t need special equipment to keep your solar panel off dust. What you have to do is to find a shady place and place your panel there. Then, use a soft sponge with warm water and soap to clean off the panel’s surface.
Conclusion
I hope you have had a good time reading all about the best solar generators for camping. These products generate clean power, which is 100% environmental-friendly.
Don’t be too excited because you need to pick the most suitable one for your uses. My advice is always to stick with your preferences and needs and see which item meet your requirements.
Bryan Listor
