Solar Panels for Cycle Touring

The Best Solar Panels for Cycle Touring: Power on the Pedals

There’s nothing quite like the open road and the sound of your tires humming across miles of backcountry or scenic coastline. Cycle touring offers a freedom few other forms of travel can match. And when you’re traveling self-supported, often far from plug sockets or service stations, staying charged becomes both a challenge and a necessity.

Enter solar power: your quiet, lightweight, renewable energy companion. Whether you're crossing counties, continents, or just getting lost for the weekend, the best solar panels for cycle touring keep you connected, safe, and fully charged—without adding extra hassle or weight.

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Why Solar Panels Make Sense for Cyclists

For long-distance riders, especially those venturing off the grid, solar offers a level of independence you’ll come to depend on. Forget waiting in cafés for your power bank to top up—just ride, and let the sun do the work.

Benefits for Cyclists:

  • ☀️ Harness energy as you ride
  • 🔋 Keep essential gear powered on long trips
  • 🗺️ Navigate with charged GPS devices
  • 📱 Stay connected and share your journey
  • 🔦 Power lights, headlamps, and cameras on the go

Cycle touring and solar panels are a natural pair—built for freedom, built for movement, and built for people who prefer their power source to be as portable as their panniers.

What to Look for in Cycling Solar Panels

Not all panels are made for life on two wheels. Here’s what matters most for cyclists:

  • Lightweight & Flexible: Heavy panels are a no-go. Look for thin, foldable, or rollable designs.
  • Easy to Mount: Panels that strap onto panniers, racks, or bags make charging seamless.

 

  • Efficient in Mixed Weather: UK riders know sun isn’t always guaranteed. Efficiency in low light matters.
Cycling in the sunset - bring a cycling solar panel for longer rides
  • Durability: Your gear will face wind, rain, and dust—make sure your solar kit can handle it.
  • Paired with Power Bank: Charge while riding, use stored energy at camp.

👉 Recommended from Sunstore: Flexi Solar Panels – ideal for uneven surfaces like panniers or drybags.

Cycling by a lake - this time without the best solar panels for cycle touring?
Vertical image of a heavy loaded cycle - powered with cycling solar panel

Real-World Setups for Touring Cyclists

The ideal solar setup depends on your needs, trip length, and power usage. Here are a few common use-cases:

Rider Type Suggested Setup
Weekend Warrior Compact USB solar charger + 5,000mAh power bank
Long Tourer 10–20W panel + 10,000–20,000mAh power bank
Tech-Heavy Bikepacker 20–40W folding panel + multi-device battery station

💡 Tip: Mount your panel on the rear rack or top of your pannier for optimal sun exposure while riding.

Essential Gear You Can Power on the Go

While cycling, your power needs may be modest—but when you’re days from a socket, a little charge goes a long way.

Devices cyclists often power with solar:

  • Phone (route tracking, emergency calls, photos)

  • GPS or cycling computer

  • Action cameras (like GoPro)

  • Lights or reflectors

  • USB-powered fans (for hot summer nights in the tent)

  • Satellite communicators (for remote rides)

Solar helps you travel lighter, with fewer extra batteries and more flexibility.

Find a solar solution for cycling

Integrating Solar into a Bikepacking Setup

Bikepacking often means tight space and ultra-light priorities. Fortunately, modern solar tech is designed to be just as agile as you are.

Look for:

  • Clip-on panels that stay attached as you ride
  • Roll-up solar mats that stash away in a dry bag
  • Modular kits that let you swap in different capacity power banks

Check out Sunstore’s Portable Solar Power Kits for smart solutions that work for your kind of riding.

From Roads to Campsites: Stay Powered Overnight

Solar really shines when the ride ends. At camp, use your stored solar energy to power:

  • Tent lights
  • Small speakers
  • Headlamps
  • E-book readers
  • Recharging your phone or camera for the next day

Planning a trip with a friend? Share the solar load: one person carries the panel, the other the power bank. Teamwork = efficiency.

Related Adventures You Might Like

This cycling section is part of our broader Other Outdoor Activities category. If you’re as drawn to wild travel as we are, check out:

  • 🥾 Solar for hiking: Trail-ready solar power for longer treks
  • ⛺ Tents: Keep your base camp bright and charged
  • 🚐 Solar camping kit: Power solutions for every setup—from bike to van

And if you ever swap tires for waves:

Wherever you roam, solar is always in your corner.

Conclusion: Spin Further with the Sun on Your Side

The best solar panels for cycle touring aren’t just about gadgets—they’re about freedom. They let you push further, stay out longer, and ride with peace of mind.

For those who prefer wild camping to hotels, mountains to motels, and long roads to routine life, solar power is your most loyal riding partner.

So pack light, ride hard, and let the sun fuel your adventure. 🌞🚴‍♂️

Find a flexible solar solution