Solar-powered chargers that will keep your battery full while off the grid

There's a lot more battery life in the sun.

There’s a lot more battery life in the sun. (Ferran Feixas via Unsplash/)

Keeping your phone charged can be a challenge, especially when you are out and about. Plugging in your phone during a day at the office is a simple fix, but what about during a camping trip, day hike, beach excursion, or music festival? A solar-powered phone charger is a great way to be on the go and fully charged. These durable packs are weather-resistant, easily transportable, reliable, and eco-friendly. While they may not charge your phone as fast as a standard power plug, you will never be caught in a tough spot, no matter where you go.

On-the-go options.

On-the-go options. (Amazon/)

The Addtop uses four panels to convert solar power into battery power for the most efficient charge. Unlike some products listed here, the Addtop charges a 25,000mAh lithium battery instead of connecting to your phone directly which means more options and increased speed when it comes to your charge. Not only can this heavy hitter juice up your devices, but it also comes with a built-in, bright emergency LED lights that can shine in 3 modes: strobe, SOS, and normal. It measures 6.1 by 3.35 by 1.37 inches, weighs a bit over 1 pound, and can charge two devices simultaneously. The Addtop is water, shock, and dust-proof, which makes it a great choice for camping trips or other outdoor activities.

Stay unplugged safely. (Amazon/)

The BigBlue Solar Charger is where it’s at when it comes to getting a direct charge. The BigBlue doesn’t come with a separate battery—instead, you plug your phone straight into the built-in ports. It’s great for trips with friends or family because you can charge up to three devices at a time with the help of four 7-watt solar panels in direct sunlight. With Smart Charging Technology, this guy can handle most Apple and Android devices and even some DSLRs. It’s intelligently designed with short circuit, over-voltage, over-current, and overcharge protection. Plus, it’s easily foldable and comes with four carabiners for straightforward portability. This BigBlue charger measures 11.22 by 6.3 by 1.34 inches and weighs roughly 1.3 pounds.

Backpack, car rack, and tree branch friendly. (Amazon/)

The Anker Portable Solar Charger is a great way to keep your phone charged on a sunny day. Just unfold the panels in the sunniest place you can find and use the included USB connector (or grab your own) to easily attach your device. This charger is foldable so it’s easy to take on the go; it measures 11.1 by 6.3 by 1.1 inches when folded and 26.4 by 11.1 by 0.2 ubcges when opened so it will easily fit inside a backpack. You can attach it practically anywhere using the four built-in eyeholes. With enough direct sunlight, the three 15-watt solar panels can provide charging speeds up to 2.4 amps per port or 3 amps overall, which means it can charge two devices simultaneously. This model is just 14 ounces (less than a pound) so it will be lightweight for on the go travel and compatible with the Apple and Android smartphones and tablets you need to take with you. If you are looking for a free and easy way to charge your phone without taking up too much space, the Anker may be the one for you.

Small but mighty. (Amazon/)

If all these foldable chargers seem a little too big for your needs, we recommend checking out this solar charger from GoerTek. It measures 7 by 3.8 by 1.1 inches and weighs just over 1 pound. This little guy uses a 25,000mAh li-polymer battery that can convert solar power to battery power or be pre-charged using a typical 5v/2a adapter so you can rescue your phone rain or shine. With three USB ports that can charge simultaneously, you’ll be the talk of the campsite. Don’t worry if you’ve left your flashlight at home because this power bank is equipped with 36 built-in LED lights so you’ll never have to fumble around in the dark.