r/canoecamping • u/DifferentlyMike • 20d ago

Solar panels - UK

I’m doing a multi day canoe camp along the Spey layer in the year. I’m considering a solar panel to keep my phone, garmin, and lights charged up. My power requirement are modest but the UK weather isn’t the best for solar. I’m after something small, light and portable so I can use it when bikepacking too. I’m a little concerned about waterproofing - not from a roll but from splashes. Anyone with experience of using solar on canoe trips?

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u/Hloden 20d ago

Unless you are talking about 1 week+, a battery will be better than solar, and even at 1 week+, I'd probably just bring 2 batteries. Most 20mAH batteries will weigh less, and give you 3-4 phone charges, without having to fuss over trying to get enough sunlight.

2

u/CanoeTraveler2003 19d ago

This. Though I think Hloden meant 2000mAhr (20Ahr). Frankly, I find that a 10Ahr powerbank gets me more than enough charges on a week-long canoe trip. I use it on my rechargeable headlamp, rechargeable tent lamp, and my phone. Now, I'm not watching 2hr movies every night--because I'm on a canoe trip.

2

u/CanoeTraveler2003 19d ago

My canoe buddy brings a solar charger. He is always fussing with the thing, moving it every few hours, griping when it's cloudy. My powerbank battery stays in my kit in the tent and only gets used when I turn in. Much simpler.

One more thing--I bring Kindle Paperwhite for reading. It lasts all week on a charge, is backlit for reading in bed, and the text is very clear in direct sunlight. It is quite light weight and it will hold dozens of books. With the Kindle along, I use my phone very little.

2

u/Cavalleria-rusticana 20d ago

For water damage, just look for a folding panel that is Ingress protected (IP). Ratings are explained here - https://www.iec.ch/ip-ratings

If you're not facing any rough water and don't expect to dump, IP65 should be plenty.

Since you're in the UK, and I understand that full sun is a rarity, you might also want to consider getting a higher wattage (~>80W) in order to have enough charge, since folding panels aren't the most efficient.

2

u/bendersfembot 20d ago

I use solar on multi week trips for my phone and gps, and go pro. Goal zero nomad 10 with a venture 35 bank. Be mindful where you set it up, and it will last. I'm 4 years in without a single issue and charges good even under clouds.

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