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(Last Updated On: )Whether you are on a boat or on a kayak, you need the ability to keep your phone charged at all times. That’s when a portable foldable solar panel with a power bank comes in handy.
The best portable solar charger is the Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Power Bank.
So, here’s our list of 5 portable solar panels you can choose from.
| SOLAR PANEL | PREVIEW | WEIGHT |
| Hiluckey |  | 1.1 pounds |
| ADDTOP |  | 1.18 pounds |
| AddAcc |  | 1.49 pounds |
| FEELLE |  | 1.4 pounds |
| BLAVOR |  | 1.33 pounds |
Table of Contents
5 Portable And Foldable Solar Panels With External Batteries.
#1. Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Power Bank
The Hiluckey is compatible with almost all 5V devices such as an iPhone, iPad, Samsung, Sony, a digital camera or GPS, and more.
You will be able to charge your smartphone eight to ten times and your tablet three to four times. There is an average of nine days usage per charge on the Hiluckey solar power bank.
Four foldable high-effeciency solar panels charge about six times faster than other comparable panels.
You will be able to charge two devices simultaneously with a 2.1A high speed charging.
The Hiluckey has a handy hook to hang off a backpack or other area in the sunlight.
This power bank will protect your device from overheating, over and undercurrent, and short-circuiting while charging.
Although you might not want to test it, the Hiluckey has an IPX7 rating, which means it is submersible up to three feet.
This feature will be handy out on the water in case it gets splashed.
The Hiluckey power bank will automatically detect the current of the dual output to send optimal charging output to your devices and protect them from overheating, overcurrent, overvoltage and short circuiting.
CAPACITY: 25000mAh Li-polymer battery.
CHARGING METHOD: Four solar panels in a foldable unit with a 1A input current that is about four times faster than other chargers.
PORTS FOR CHARGING: Dual 2.1A USB ports to charge two devices simultaneously. The auto-detect will provide the optimal output.
SIZE:6.1 inches long, 3.35 inches wide, and 1.37 inches thick. Weighs 1.1 pounds.
ADDITIONAL: Dust, shock, and water-resistant. Built-in LED flashlight with three modes, steady, SOS, and strobe.
COMES WITH: One solar charger, one micro-USB cable, and one user manual.
#2. ADDTOP Solar Charger
The ADDTOP power bank charger combines regular power bank functions and solar power recharging.
This makes for a convenient solution when you are on the trail or just hanging outside for an extended time.
The power bank has three solar panels and recharges in 30 hours of direct sunlight. The majority of smartphones charge about 9 to 10 times and a tablet about three times.
This power bank is water-resistant and dustproof.
CAPACITY: 25000mAh/92.5Wh capacity on this ADDTOP solar charger that is compatible with most smartphones and tablets.
CHARGING METHOD: Four foldable solar panels absorb solar energy. When the device is full, the ADDTOP has an autostop to avoid overheating and overcharging.
PORTS FOR CHARGING: Dual USB output ports can charge two devices at the same time. This solar charger can charge most 5V devices with a USB port. It will charge smartphones, iPads, and cameras but will not charge a laptop.
SIZE: Folded and closed, this Addtop solar charger is 6.1 inches long, 3.35 inches wide, and 1.37 inches thick. The unit weighs 1.18 pounds.
ADDITIONAL: This power bank is equipped with bright LED light and works great in the dark. That makes it ideal for camping trips. Hang the power bank in the open position on your backpack while hiking to obtain additional solar charge.
COMES WITH: One solar charger, one micro-USB cable, and a user manual.
#3. AddAcc Solar Wireless Outdoor Portable Power Bank
With a fully charged AddAcc solar power bank, you will be able to charge your iPhone X/11 up to 6 times before you need to recharge the power bank itself.
The power bank also supports Qi wireless charging and most USB charging devices. The AddAcc will automatically detect the charging device and deliver the optimal current.
The unit is shockproof and dustproof, making it nice for whatever environment you use the power bank in.
Four detachable solar panels and one built-in solar panel will keep you charged up when you are away from another power source.
CAPACITY: 25,000 mAh charging current with five solar panels.
CHARGING METHOD: There are four USB ports and the capability to charge wirelessly. PORTS FOR CHARGING: You will be able to charge three devices simultaneously. Suitable for most smartphones, iPads, Go pros, or GPS devices.
SIZE: Folded and closed, this solar unit measures 6.2 inches long, 3.33 inches wide, and .98 inches thick. The unit weighs 1.49 pounds.
ADDITIONAL: One of the advantages of the AddAcc is that it is IPX5 resistant. It is good to know that an errant splash won’t do the unit in. This unit also has an LED flashlight with three light modes.
COMES WITH: One solar power bank, one micro-USB cable, one carabiner, one lanyard, and one user manual.
#4. FEELLE Solar Power Bank
The Feelle has a high capacity and a fast-charging capability. You will be able to charge a regular smartphone in about 75 minutes.
When the Feelle has a full charge, it can charge the average device approximately 10 times.
The cover of this four-panel solar bank is water-resistant with an IP65 rating. That means that this solar bank is resistant to large droplets and splashes of water but not submersion.
A bit heavier than one might expect; it is not necessarily a unit you would carry in your pocket.
If you are looking for a device that is mainly a power bank and the solar is an extra feature, the Feelee would suit that purpose perfectly.
CAPACITY: 25,000mAh Li-polymer battery that can charge your phone about eight times and your tablet three times before needing to be recharged itself.
CHARGING METHOD: You can charge your phone while the solar charger is also charging by sunlight.
PORTS FOR CHARGING: Dual USB ports will charge two devices simultaneously.
SIZE: 6.1 inches long, 3.3 inches wide, and 1.37 inches thick. Weighs in at 1.4 pounds.
ADDITIONAL: Shockproof and dustproof and also water-resistant. Equipped with an LED flashlight that has a regular SOS and strobe modes, this will come in useful at night.
COMES WITH: One solar charger, one micro-USB cable, and one user manual.
#5. BLAVOR Solar Charger
The Blavor has the standard power bank features that can catch and store sunlight energy.
While it does this slower than other power banks, the Blavor has a wireless charging area for wireless devices.
This charger also utilizes micro USB and standard USB ports. Your best bet is to fully charge the power bank before you head out on an adventure.
The reason behind this is that using solar to charge the power bank itself will take more sunlight than what you will get in a day, but if you charge it before you go, the day’s sunlight will keep it topped off.
When the panels are detached, the power bank’s magnetic sealing bar keeps the charger working as an individual unit.
CAPACITY: Has a max 20,000mAh charging current with five solar panels magnetically attached to each other. It can charge an iPhone 8 up to 3 times before the power bank needs recharging.
CHARGING METHOD: This power bank can wirelessly charge all cell phones with wireless charging technology.
PORTS FOR CHARGING: There are two ports for charging, and if you charge a device using wireless, you could charge three at one time. Please note that the type C is an input port and does not support output.
SIZE: Folded and closed, this solar unit measures 7 inches long, 3.6 inches wide, and 1.6 inches thick. The unit weighs 1.33 pounds.
ADDITIONAL: There are three flashlight modes on this power bank. You can use it as a flashlight, an outdoor signal light, or a quick flashing strobe light.
COMES WITH: One solar charger, one type C cable, one warranty card, and 1 user manual.
Why Do I Need A Solar Panel Charger?
Good questions!.
Having your device powered and ready is easy if you are always near a power source, but quite another matter if you have no way to charge your phone.
And that is exactly where a portable solar panel power bank comes to the rescue. It can genuinely be an item that makes a life or death difference.
Just as you should never venture out on the water without a Floating VHF Radios, you should also have the ability to charge up your phone.
In most situations and at most times, your charging capabilities will be within reach. A solar charger will be for the time when you need backup.
Portable Foldable Solar Charger Buying Guide
Why Would I Need A Solar Charger On The Water?
One of the best reasons for taking a portable solar charger with you when boating or fishing is that you just never know when a situation arises when you might need it.
When you are out on the water, you are much more dependent on your own skills and intuition if life throws you a curveball.
There is usually help around the next corner on dry land, but on the water, there is not always help around the next wave.
Just as you should never leave shore without a Marine VHF Radio, you should also be able to charge your smart device if needed.
Life is not always within your control, which is why you need the tools that will help you out should you get in a pinch.
A foldable solar power bank will be an essential item to have on hand. They are not costly, and you can use them anywhere.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Solar Chargers?
Solar power banks are still in the state of evolution. So while they work great as a power bank, it is not realistic to use them as a way to charge your phone using the sun.
When you first get your solar charger, you will need to charge the charger. If you use the sun, it can take anywhere from 35 to 50 hours to do so.
The best route to take is to charge the solar power bank using electricity. This will take roughly 6 to 8 hours.
The power bank will then hold that charge for when you need it to charge your smart device.
Use the solar panels when you are outside to “top off” the power bank.
Power Up When You Are Off-Grid
If you are out in the middle of the lake and don’t have a handy wall socket, a solar power bank will solve the problem.
Unless it is a cloudy, overcast day, out on the lake is the perfect place to unfold the power bank panels and let it top off while charging your devices.
You Can Charge Multiple Devices
The power bank will be able to charge two or more devices at the same time.
This will be very convenient as you will not have to wait for one device to charge before charging another.
What To Look For In A Portable Foldable Solar Power Bank
Some portable solar power banks have just one panel. These types of units would be suitable if you use it as a simple backup and regularly keep it charged using electricity.
If you want something more substantial, you will want a solar power bank that has foldable panels. The more panels you have, the greater the ability the unit has to recharge itself.
If you have a power bank with four panels, it will be more useful than a unit with just one.
Laying the unit in the sun for a few hours or hanging it off a backpack during a hike will give the power bank more charge to keep your device going.
How Many Charges Can You Get From A Solar Power Bank?
Which brings us to how often you will be recharging your smart device using the solar power pack.
Most foldable solar power banks can recharge your smartphone an average of eight to twelve times before the power bank needed a recharge.
If you keep the power bank in the sun whenever possible to top off, you will lengthen the time needed between the power bank’s chargings.
It would be best if you had a portable solar power bank as part of an emergency kit. You never know when the power will go out.
You also never know when adverse weather conditions will render a crisis situation. Tropical storms, tornados, and other natural disasters can knock out electrical services for days at a time.
Portable solar power banks are relatively inexpensive and it is wise to have one in your emergency kit. It is better to have it and not need it, then need it and not have it.
In Conclusion
This is not your grandmother’s world anymore! No more payphones, no more landlines, and very few handwritten letters.
This is a fast-paced world where your smartphone is an integral device. You don’t leave home without it. But your phone is only as good as its charge.
If you are going to be off the grid, if you are in the middle of the lake or fishing in a remote location, you still need your phone to be operative.
So just like the fishing tackle, just like the life vest, and just like your marine VHF radio, you need a portable solar power bank.
A solar power bank is a cost-effective device that could get you out of a tight spot and keep you connected when you need to be.
FAQ
How Does A Solar Power Bank Work?
A solar power bank uses a small built-in panel to charge a rechargeable battery. Placing the power bank in direct sunlight allows it to charge the battery.
Will A Solar Power Bank Charge In Indirect Sunlight?
The power bank will charge in indirect light but nowhere near as effectively. The power bank needs photon particles to generate electricity and charge the battery, which means it needs direct sunlight. A cloudy day or a hot day will not charge the solar battery.
Can You Charge Your Solar Power Bank Using The Sun?
Even the solar power bank manufacturers advise against using the sun to charge your solar power bank fully.
The solar panel can generate a limited amount of power but has a high battery capacity. For first time use, charge the power bank using electricity.
Why Would You Need A Solar Power Bank?
Once your solar power bank has reached its full charge, you can use it to charge your smart devices when a power source is not available.
This can be of vital importance when there is a power outage, or you are off-grid. Your smartphone is often your only means of communication.
How Many Times Can I Charge My Smartphone Off a Solar Power Bank?
The average mobile solar panel charger will be able to charge a smartphone anywhere from five to 10 times, and an iPad from two to four times.
