profdant139 wrote:
Because we usually boondock in deep shade, we decided to get a 120 watt portable solar panel, so that we can put the panel in the sun and then run the cable to the trailer in the shade.
And if there is just too much shade at the campsite, we can always remove our spare battery and carry the battery and the panel into a nearby patch of sun. Since we are boondocking in the middle of nowhere, theft is not a problem -- although we have a cable to lock the panels to a tree, if needed.
Deploying and de-deploying and storing a portable panel involves a lot more work than a built-in panel, and I think it is probably more prone to damage from the wind.
On balance, we are very happy with our decision, but it is not for everyone. If you camp in the sun most of the time, it probably makes more sense to get a built-in roof panel, the bigger, the better.
I agree with everyone here that solar is what you need to top you off. I too began with a portable panel (and did the wind damage thing after 2 years) and now I have a portable and fixed.
If you want to go solar this thread will give you plenty of ideas.
