Adding solar to your vehicle, trailer, or RV is one of the best ways to keep your batteries charged, power your appliances, and extend your stays off-grid. But with so many options — from folding panels to solar blankets to fixed rooftop panels — choosing the right system can feel overwhelming.
This guide explains REDARC’s solar solutions, how much solar you really need, and which option is best for your travel style.
WHY SOLAR?
Solar provides sustainable, silent, and reliable energy to keep fridges, lights, and devices running wherever you camp. Paired with a REDARC battery charger or management system, solar reduces your reliance on alternator charging or shore power, giving you independence for longer trips.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS
REDARC offers three main solar solutions, each suited to different users and setups:
PORTABLE PANELS
Best for: Casual campers on short trips
- Affordable and easy to set up
- Adjustable legs for sun alignment
- Can be moved throughout the day for maximum output
- Bulkier and heavier, requiring storage space
Perfect if you’re starting out or only camping a few weekends a year.
SOLAR BLANKETS
Best for: Frequent travelers and space-conscious builds
- Ultra-lightweight and compact
- Made with high-efficiency SunPower monocrystalline or amorphous cells
- Perform well in low-light conditions
- Flexible placement — lay on the ground, drape over a vehicle, or hang from an awning
- Higher cost but premium portability and performance
Ideal for overlanders, vanlifers, or anyone who travels often and values flexibility.
FIXED PANELS
Best for: Full-time travelers and RV owners
- Permanently mounted to the roof of your vehicle or trailer
- Begin charging as soon as sunlight hits — no setup required
- Durable, long-term solution
- Work best when parked in full sun
The most convenient option for those living on the road, though you sacrifice flexibility when parked in the shade.
HOW MUCH SOLAR DO YOU NEED?
Sizing your solar system is the most important step in building a reliable off-grid setup. Too little solar, and you’ll drain your batteries quickly. Too much, and you’ll spend more than you need or waste valuable space.
Here’s how to work it out:
Step 1: Calculate Your Power Load
List all the appliances you’ll run and their amp draw (A). You’ll find this on the device label or in the product manual.
Example appliances:
- 12V Fridge: ~4A
- LED Lights: 0.5A
- Stereo: 2.5A
- Phone Charger: 2A
Step 2: Work Out Daily Usage
Multiply each appliance’s amp draw by the number of hours used in 24 hours. This gives you amp-hours (Ah) per day.
Example:
Step 3: Convert to Watt-Hours
Multiply total amp-hours by system voltage (12V for most setups).
67Ah x 12V = 804Wh per day
Step 4: Account for Sunlight Hours
Divide watt-hours by average usable sunlight hours (usually ~6 hours per day).
804Wh ÷ 6h = 134W of solar needed
Step 5: Add a Safety Margin
Always allow at least 20% extra to cover weather, shade, and inefficiencies.
134W + 20% = ~160W of solar required
Pro Tip:
- A 150W solar panel paired with a quality DC-DC charger can typically keep a 60L fridge running 24/7 in good conditions.
- Larger systems with inverters or multiple fridges will need more capacity — often 200–300W or more.
- Combining fixed rooftop panels with portable blankets gives the best flexibility for different conditions.
TIPS FOR MAXIMIZING YOUR SOLAR SETUP
REDARC’s range of battery chargers and battery management systems are designed with Green Power Priority in mind. This means that they’ll take solar power first when available to charge your batteries. This minimizes load on your alternator and increases fuel efficiency.
- Pair with a charger: Use REDARC battery chargers or management systems with solar input.
- Combine sources: Solar plus alternator charging gives constant reliability.
- Keep panels clean: Dust and dirt reduce efficiency.
- Position correctly: Angle panels toward the sun whenever possible.
A well-sized solar system makes off-grid travel easier, safer, and more enjoyable. By calculating your needs and choosing the right system, you’ll keep your batteries healthy and your essentials powered - wherever your journey takes you.
Explore the REDARC solar range or speak with a REDARC dealer to design the perfect solution for your adventures.
