If you love the great outdoors and live for a sense of freedom and your next adventure, then you know the benefit of having a few little luxuries from home, like a kettle and a heater to keep you warm when the sun goes down. Folding solar panels will keep you powered up while on the road and require minimal space for storage, as opposed to rigid solar panels. Foldable solar panels are very versatile- just pull them out when you need them, harness the sun's power, and pump that extra solar energy into a battery to use later that night when the sun has gone down.
The Benefits of Foldable Solar Panels
A foldable solar panel does just as good a job of utilising solar energy as a rigid solar panel, but it has the added benefit of being neatly tucked away when you’ve filled your battery.
Foldable solar panels are super handy when camping, 4WDing or heading off on any outdoor adventure because they give you a reliable, easily portable source of power without taking up much space. Here’s how to get the best value out of them:
- Charge your auxiliary battery so you can run 12V gear like fridges, lights, fans and water pumps without flattening your vehicle's main battery.
- You can top up power during the day if you're running a dual battery setup or have a lithium battery in your caravan, camper or 4WD.
- Power small devices directly, like phones, GPS units, headlamps or rechargeable batteries via USB.
- You can keep your system charged while stationary, which is especially handy if you're camped for a few days without moving. Folding solar panels can face the sun even if your car can’t.
- If you have shaded fixed solar panels or your energy usage is higher than expected, you can add backup power to your main solar setup.
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What Size Folding Solar Panel Do You Need?
Folding solar panels come in a range of wattages to suit different setups. A compact 100W foldable solar panel is great for charging phones and running LED lights, while a 200W–300W folding solar panel kit will comfortably keep a fridge, fan and other camping gear powered for longer trips. For higher energy demands or longer stays off-grid, go for 300W or above to stay covered.
Why Choose Vic Offroad?
At Vic Offroad, we know what it’s like to be out there, far from the nearest power point. We stock folding solar panels that are built tough, easy to carry and reliable in Aussie conditions. Whether you’re after a 100W lightweight panel or a full 300W folding solar panel kit, we’ll help you find the right setup for your needs.
Installation and Setup
Setting up a foldable solar panel is simple. Unfold the panel, angle it towards the sun using the kickstand or legs, and plug it into your battery system or solar regulator. Make sure all cables are secure and placed out of the way. If you’re using a folding solar panel kit with a built-in regulator, you can connect directly to your battery.
Most folding solar panels are lightweight and compact when folded, with quick setup thanks to built-in stands. Many models use high-efficiency monocrystalline cells and include USB ports, or Anderson plug connections for flexible charging options. They're also compatible with most battery types, including lithium, AGM and lead acid.
FAQs
How do I set up a foldable solar panel?
Unfold the panel, position it in direct sunlight and connect it to your battery or solar controller using the provided cables. Make sure the panel is angled towards the sun for maximum exposure.
Can I use a foldable solar panel with a battery charger?
Yes, many foldable solar panels work with DC to DC chargers or solar regulators, especially if you're topping up an auxiliary battery.
Are folding solar panels as efficient as fixed panels?
Yes. Most folding solar panels use the same high-efficiency monocrystalline cells as fixed panels. They’re just more portable.
Are folding solar panels waterproof?
Many models are water-resistant or waterproof to a certain level, but it’s best to keep connectors and regulators dry where possible.
Are folding solar panels compatible with all battery types?
Most are compatible with AGM, lithium and lead-acid batteries. Always check the specs or pair them with a suitable regulator.
Do folding solar panels overheat in hot weather?
High-quality panels are designed to handle heat, though output can drop slightly in very hot conditions, just like with any solar setup.
Ready to power your next trip? Browse our full range of foldable solar panels at Vic Offroad today.