Choosing the right portable solar panels or RV solar panels depends on how often you will use them and what they are powered by.
Size and efficiency
Efficiency is important when portability is a factor. Available space is usually limited, whether you install the panels permanently on the roof of your RV or store them when moving from one location to another. Portable panels aren't as reliable as domestic models, so any difference in efficiency can make a big difference.
If your solar system needs to charge batteries to store a small amount of electricity when needed, you only need a small panel of about 100 watts. To keep a small refrigerator running while the RV is running, higher wattage panels may be needed. Whatever your needs, look for an efficiency index above 18% to get the most out of your investment.
Portability tends to go hand in hand with size. You'll need solar panels as a one-off device that's easy to install or set up. When deciding whether you need solar power, consider the space available for installation or storage on your roof. Look for panels designed to withstand wind loads as well as snow or hail.
Reliability and durability
Another important point is durability. Make sure your portable solar panel can withstand strong winds if you plan to permanently install it on the roof of your RV. Look for a wind load rating of at least 2400 Pa. If using in winter, make sure it has 5400 Pa or more to withstand heavy snow loads.
For portable panels that you store on the go, choose panels that store easily and securely.
However, being tough is not enough. There are few things more frustrating than unplugging your RV and finding that your solar panels aren't working. Water getting into the cable connections can cause problems. Make sure your solar panel connections are above IP65, meaning they won't let water through in most conditions the panels will survive. The higher the IP rating, the more waterproof the connection.
PRICE
Deciding on a portable solar panel budget is more than meets the eye. Building an RV large enough to accommodate all of your electrical needs is expensive and there may not be enough room. You have to choose which items you want to use with solar energy.
Once you've made that decision, compare the cost savings of installing solar panels to the cost of running the same item off the camp grid. If you spend a lot of time away from an RV, you may decide to install the largest possible solar panels for your system.
