Solar panels on your campervan: everything you need to know for worry-free travel

Summary: solar panels on your campervan in short

• With solar panels you depend less on campsite electricity
• The right power output depends on your consumption and travel style
• MPPT charge controllers deliver more yield than PWM
• Solar panels work together with your leisure battery
• Ideal for free camping and off-grid travel

Why solar panels on your campervan?

Solar panels on your campervan mean freedom. You generate your own power for lighting, the fridge, the water pump and charging devices. Especially if you like to camp freely or stay overnight outside campsites, solar panels are a logical choice.

Even on cloudy days panels often deliver enough power to keep your basic systems running. Combined with a good battery, they increase your independence considerably.

How many watts of solar do you need?

The right power output depends on your electricity consumption.

Guidelines per campervan type

• 100–150 watts
  For light use: lighting, charging a phone, water pump
• 200–250 watts
  Suitable for a compressor fridge and regular off-grid camping
• 300–350 watts or more
  For heavier use, multiple devices and longer trips

If you have a campervan fridge, that has a big influence on your consumption. Read more in our guide to campervan fridges

Types of solar panels for campervans

Fixed solar panel on the campervan

Fixed panels are mounted on the roof and deliver the highest yield. They are durable and always ready to use.

Flexible solar panel

Flexible panels are lighter and lower, handy when roof space is limited. Yield and lifespan are usually somewhat lower than with fixed panels.

Portable solar panel

A separate panel can be placed in the sun while your campervan stays in the shade. Ideal on hot days or in spots with little sunlight on the roof.

MPPT or PWM charge controller?

The charge controller regulates how power from the solar panel reaches your battery.

• MPPT charge controller
  More efficient, higher yield, especially in variable sun
• PWM charge controller
  Simpler and cheaper, but less efficient

For campervans an MPPT controller is almost always the best choice, certainly with multiple panels.

Solar panels and your leisure battery

Solar panels work together with your battery. The battery type determines how much energy you can store.

• AGM or gel: reliable, but less deeply dischargeable
• Lithium (LiFePO4): lighter, faster charging and more usable capacity

If you also use other electrical systems such as a water pump in your campervan, enough battery capacity is extra important.
Read more about the campervan water pump.

Yield in practice

The yield depends on:

• Sunshine hours and season
• Orientation of the panel
• Shade (even a little shade lowers the yield sharply)

In summer you can often be fully self-sufficient. In winter solar power is mainly a supplement.

Maintenance and common problems

Solar panels need little maintenance:

• Clean them now and then
• Check the wiring and connections
• Keep the ventilation under the panel clear

System not charging properly? Check the fuses, charge controller and battery voltage first before drawing conclusions.

Free camping with solar panels: plan smartly

With solar panels free camping is easier, but not every spot is suitable. Think about:

• Enough sun
• Service points nearby
• Accessible approach roads

Frequently asked questions about solar panels on campervans

Is a 100 watt solar panel enough for a campervan?
For basic use often yes, but with a fridge or multiple devices more power is advisable.

Do solar panels also work in cloudy weather?
Yes, but with a lower yield than in full sun.

Can I add solar panels later?
Usually yes, provided your charge controller and wiring can handle it.