Foldable Portable Solar Panel 18V – Approx. 97W Folding Camping Solar Panel with Kickstand

Foldable Portable Solar Panel for Camping and Off-Grid Power

This foldable portable solar panel produces up to 18V at 5.4A, which works out to roughly 97W of peak power, and folds in half for carrying. It opens to 122 x 65cm, weighs 3.6kg and stands on a built-in kickstand, making it a practical way to recharge a portable power station on camping trips, at the beach, on the road or during a blackout at home.

Off-Grid Power That Packs Down Flat

Fixed roof panels do not help when you are parked at a campsite or the power goes out. A folding panel goes wherever you do. Fold it closed for the car, then open it out, set the kickstand and point it at the sun. Because it is portable, you can move it through the day to follow the sun, park the car in the shade while the panel sits in full sun, and pack it away when you leave.

What 18V and 5.4A Means for Charging

The panel's maximum power voltage is 18V and its maximum power current is 5.4A. Multiply the two and you get about 97W in ideal conditions. Like all solar panels, real output is usually lower, as heat, cloud, dust, low sun angles and partial shade all reduce what it produces. As a guide, plan around getting less than the peak figure on a typical day, and more in cool, clear, bright conditions.

Charging a 12V Battery the Right Way

An 18V panel can charge a 12V battery, but it must go through a solar charge controller (regulator). The controller drops the voltage to a safe charging level and stops the battery from overcharging. Portable power stations have a controller built in, so the panel can plug into them directly with the correct cable. For a standalone 12V deep cycle or lithium battery, connect the panel to a PWM or MPPT controller that suits your battery type, then the controller to the battery.

Key Features and Benefits

• 18V maximum power voltage, 5.4A maximum power current (approx. 97W)
• Folds in half for transport and storage
• Built-in kickstand for angling toward the sun
• Opens to 122 x 65cm, weighs 3.6kg
• Polycrystalline silicon cells
• Suits portable power stations, and 12V batteries via a charge controller
• Ideal for camping, caravanning, 4WD trips and emergency backup

Product Details

• Cell type: Polycrystalline silicon
• Maximum power voltage (Vmp): 18V
• Maximum power current (Imp): 5.4A
• Approximate peak power: 97W
• Size (open): 122 x 65 x 1cm
• Weight: 3.6kg
• Colour: Black
• Package contents: 1 x solar panel

Getting the Most from Australian Sun

Face the panel north, as the sun sits in the northern sky across most of Australia, and tilt it with the kickstand so the face points straight at the sun. Re-angle it every couple of hours to follow the sun across the sky. Keep the whole panel out of shade, as even a shadow across part of it can cut output noticeably. On hot days, raise it slightly so air can flow behind it, since panels produce less power as they heat up. Wipe dust and bird droppings off the surface with a soft damp cloth, and fold it away when not in use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a foldable solar panel used for?
It charges portable power stations and, through a charge controller, 12V batteries when you are away from mains power. Common uses include camping, caravanning, 4WD trips, beach days and emergency backup during blackouts.

Which portable solar panel is suitable for camping?
A folding panel with a kickstand is the most practical for camping, as it packs flat and sets up quickly. At around 97W, this panel suits topping up a portable power station or small 12V battery setup.

Can a portable solar panel charge a 12V battery?
Yes, but always through a solar charge controller. Connecting an 18V panel straight to a 12V battery can overcharge and damage it. Portable power stations include a controller, so they can connect directly.

How long does it take to charge a battery or power station?
It depends on the battery size, the sun conditions and how well the panel is angled. Real output on a typical day is below the 97W peak, so larger batteries can take a full day or more of good sun.

Can it be left out in the rain?
Treat it as a portable panel rather than a permanent outdoor fixture. Bring it in or cover it in heavy rain, and keep the connectors dry.

Where can I buy a foldable solar panel in Sydney?
This foldable portable solar panel is available from BPG Supplies, with local pickup from our store in Bonnyrigg in Sydney's south-west and delivery options across Australia shown at checkout.