Campervan Solar Panels: Sizing, Fitting and Getting It Right

A campervan solar panel is the difference between chasing electric hookups and being truly free to park where you like. Panels have become cheaper and more efficient, so it's now a sensible upgrade for almost any van. The key is sizing the system to the power you actually use.

How much solar do you need?

• 100W suits light users — phones, lights and topping up the battery.
• 200W handles a compressor fridge in summer and most everyday use.
• 300W+ covers heavy users, laptops and longer off-grid stretches.

For most UK vans, 200W is the sweet spot. It fits on a roof, keeps up with typical use, and charges a leisure battery comfortably on a decent summer day.

What you need to buy

A panel, a charge controller (MPPT is worth the extra money), and the right cabling. The controller goes between the panel and your leisure battery and stops it overcharging. If you're adding more gear later, read campervan off-grid power for the full system view.

Fitting tips

• Fix panels with proper adhesive kits or roof rails — never drill through the roof if you can avoid it.
• Route cables through an existing vent or seal carefully with caravan sealant.
• Check the roof is clean and dry before bonding.
• Fit a fuse close to the battery.

A properly sized panel means you rarely think about power again. That's the whole point.

Worth the money?

A quality 200W kit typically costs £300–£500 and adds genuine value to the van. It also makes a van far more attractive when you sell your campervan later. For new owners, it's the first upgrade on many lists — see the best campervan accessories for your first year.