Solar power is renewable and free, and rising in popularity. Apart from the traditional fixed solar panels, new technologies have been introduced, designed to meet the needs of those who enjoy the outdoors occasionally. They are lightweight, portable and can easily be packed and stored away when not in use.

If you like to travel in your RV or take long road trips, you know the importance of having a reliable power source to charge your appliances and devices. For your portable power needs, you can shop for solar blankets and experience a whole new level of convenience and functionality on your adventures. 

They work similarly to an off-grid solar system, applying the same concept on a small, mobile scale. They are designed to provide enough amount of power to run everything from consumer electronics to major appliances. Here are two of the most common types available, the benefits they offer and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Rigid

They are designed for fixed installations and can be used on the roof of your house or your motorhome. This type of solar panels is durable, long-lasting and can be used in the most extreme weather. All you need to do is set it up on your RV’s roof and park somewhere with ample sunlight.

Portable

They can be mounted on almost any surface. One of the greatest advantages of this type of solar panels is that they are lightweight, so you can easily hang them on your awning or drape them over your trailer and avoid drilling any holes. They are a great solution when the space that receives direct sunlight is at premium, allowing you to maximise every centimetre and move them around.

Benefits of Using Solar Blankets for Camping

1. Portability

Portable and lightweight solar panels are easy to pack and take with you on your trips. Whether for camping, hiking, or RVing, having a solar panel that can fold down to the size of a laptop, means that you can carry a reliable power source with you anywhere you go.

2. Sustainability

They are sustainable energy sources that provide clean and renewable power and are considered an excellent alternative to traditional generators that rely on fossil fuels and can be quite noisy, too.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

One of the greatest things about solar blankets is that they require little maintenance and can last for many years. Even if the initial cost may seem a bit high, it pays off in the long run.

4. Versatility

Using them, you can charge batteries, power appliances and more, so you can enjoy the great outdoors with all the comforts of home. They are ideal for outdoor activities and emergencies and can be useful for power outages, too.

5. Easy Setup

They are easy to set up and use. Find a sunny spot, unfold and set the blanket(s) up, pointed directly to the sunlight. You can place them on the ground or a bonnet, windscreen, or roof rack.

Tips on How to Choose the Right Solar Blanket 

Consider the Material

There are a few different types of solar cells – monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin films. The first ones are the most efficient; they generate more solar energy compared to the other two and are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Choose the Right Size

They come in different sizes, so it’s always a good idea to calculate your power requirements before deciding whether to go for a 200KW or a 300KW solar mat. There’s no use in having a high-quality power source if it’s not the correct size to meet your needs during your camping trip.

Choose the Right Weight

Nobody wants a bulky, heavy solar power source on their outdoor adventures. The good thing about solar blankets for camping is that they’re on the lighter side, but still make sure to check their weight before making a purchase so you’ll know if it’s suited to the type of vehicle and the amount of space you have available.

Consider Extra Features

It’s mostly up to your camping preferences, whether you want something with support legs for easy angling or multiple ports for convenience. Think about what you find to be most useful for you and choose accordingly.

Final Thoughts

No matter what your off-grid adventure is, backpacking, glamping, or RVing, the easiest way to bring electricity with you is to choose foldable solar power blankets. They’re portable, lightweight, easy to set up, and available in various sizes so you can choose depending on your needs. Once you’ve found the right one for you, it’s important to take proper care of it both when on and off.

If it’s on the ground, don’t walk on it. Avoid stepping or putting pressure on the panel when using it. Keep dirt, dust and sand away by removing them with a soft cloth to prevent scratches. Make sure the blanket is cool before cleaning and keep it dry before folding it away. Even though it’s waterproof and can be used during rainy days, allow it to dry completely first. Once folded, store your blanket in a cool, dry place until you hit the road again.