The 6 Best Solar Panels for RVs

Prices for individual panels depend primarily on how much power the panel delivers and the type (rigid monocrystalline, polycrystalline, vs. flexible). A smaller, 50-watt panel runs around $40 to $100 depending on manufacturer, where a 100-watt panel typically costs between $80 and $160. Polycrystalline panels tend to be more affordable than monocrystalline or flexible panels. 

If you don’t want to mix and match solar equipment, bundle sets often include solar controllers, inverters, or even batteries. When purchasing separately, expect to spend around $250 (minimum) for a budget-friendly system consisting of a 100-watt panel, solar controller, battery, and hardware. 

Determining the number of solar panels will vary with every traveler, but most RVers can get by using between 100 and 500 watts of solar power, depending on how much energy they use daily. In addition, solar panels come in different sizes and wattages, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

Juniper, who has been traveling in her RV full-time for five years, says that when determining how much solar you’ll need, start backwards. Add up the how much power the electronics you plan on using will draw (anything with a heating element will use up a lot of power), then decide what type of battery storage you’ll need. 

“People often make the mistake of first asking how many watts of solar they’ll need to buy. Instead, start by asking what you want to do with the solar power, and then calculate your battery needs," says Juniper. "Even if you were to buy an excessive number, like 5,000 watts worth of solar panels, if you only have one measly battery, you’re just pouring buckets of water into an already full fish tank.”

• Solar Controllers: Solar controllers (also called regulators) keep the flow going in one direction to prevent from overnight energy loss, and they also keep the voltage generated from the panels from overcharging or destroying the battery. There are two main types: PWM (the more affordable type) and MPPT (efficient, yet expensive).
  "It’s important to invest in a good quality solar controller to maximize energy," says Juniper. "Especially if you’re planning on boondocking in the RV and using a lot of power.” 
  A PWM controller (Pulse Width Modulation) is the most cost effective, simplistic, and reliable type, however, the actual voltage you can utilize from the panels is much less, so they are only around 70% efficient (and cannot be used on 24-volt panels). An MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controller is a more advanced, efficient system (even in low light) that can utilize the maximum panel output. The MPPT controllers are compatible with 24 volts, however they are bulkier and more expensive the PWM controllers. 
• Inverters: Inverters convert the DC power to AC, so depending on what devices you plan on using, you may need to get an inverter. Lights, water pumps, and fans often use DC power while kitchen appliances, larger electronics and power outlets typically run on AC. 
• Batteries: Batteries are a necessary part of the solar power system that store the energy the solar panels generate. RVers often use deep cycle, valve-regulated lead-acid batteries (VRLA). These batteries fall into two categories: AGM and gel batteries. 
  Additionally, lithium batteries have gained popularity and have a longer life cycle than VRLA batteries—however they are much more expensive. 
• Other Equipment: You’ll also need tools, hardware and, depending on the size of your system, possibly fuses or surge protectors. In addition, battery monitors are helpful devices to keep an eye on battery usage.