Solar Blankets

The Solar Blanket That Keeps You Going

There is nothing worse than waking up to a warm fridge and a flat battery. When you are off-grid you still need power you can rely on to keep your setup going and your plans moving.

We offer a range of solar blankets built for outdoor adventure and remote remote getaways. Each one is lightweight easy to carry and made for off-grid power. Whether you are topping up a battery or running gear all day most of these kits include the cables plugs and regulator so you can power up without stress.

What is the difference between MPPT and PWM regulators?

MPPT regulators are more efficient than PWM regulators. They adjust the voltage to draw more power from your camping solar panels.

This makes a big difference when sunlight is patchy or conditions change. MPPT is better for charging lithium batteries and getting more out of your solar setup. PWM is more basic and works fine for smaller gear. If you rely on solar power for your 4WD or portable power station go with MPPT to get the most out of your adventure.

Can I use a solar blanket without a battery?

Yes you can but only for certain gear. A solar blanket without a battery will only power things when the sun is shining. You’ll also need a regulator to control the power coming from the panels. This kind of setup is usually only suitable for low-voltage appliances that don’t need much power.

If you want to run lights, camping fridges or charge phones at night you need a battery or a portable power station to store that solar power. Most 4WD camping setups use AGM or lithium batteries to hold charge for when you need it. Think of the blanket as the fuel and the battery as the tank.

How do I choose between a solar blanket and a solar panel?

Choose a solar blanket if you want something light compact and easy to move. A portable solar panel suits campers who prefer a rigid frame that stays in place once set up.

Both can give you high output depending on the wattage. Many solar blankets now go up to 300W and work well with lithium batteries and portable power stations. The main difference is how they pack down and how much room you have in your 4WD. If space is tight or you are always on the move a folding solar blanket makes life easier.

What are the different types of solar panels and how do they compare?

Outback Equipment stocks a range of solar panels to suit different camping styles. The five main types are portable fixed flexible solar blankets and folding panels.

• Solar blankets fold down small and are easy to pack. They are perfect for 4WD touring and off-grid trips where space matters.
• Fixed panels mount to your roof or trailer. They are great for full-time setups where you want power flowing all day without moving anything.
• Portable panels are freestanding and easy to move around your campsite. They are good for setting up in the sun while keeping your gear in the shade.
• Flexible panels can curve to fit on surfaces like a canopy roof or boat. They are lightweight and low profile but not as powerful as rigid panels.
• Folding panels have a rigid frame but fold in half for easy storage. They are a good mix of strength and portability.