Over the last ten years, we have embraced camping off-grid, using mainly solar power to recharge our RV/Boat batteries. During that time, I purchased and installed seven 100-watt Renogy solar panels and a 40-amp Renogy DC-DC Charger. All the items have performed well, with some in constant use for ten years.
Here is a link to my previous Renogy product videos.
So, I was pleased when Renogy contacted me to offer items for my review. They offered several items, but I was keen to review their new-to-market 400-watt portable solar suitcase. Being 400 watts and compact/lightweight, I thought it most interested my audience.
I haven’t seen one quite like it before. It’s a foldable (ETFE-coated) panel design with rigid, lightweight frames and fiberglass backing. Each of the four-panel segments has an adjustable metal kickstand. Magnets in the corners help keep it together when folded.
As a bonus, it includes a canvas storage bag with a large pocket for cables and accessories. Folded dimensions are 27.9*33.7*3.2in Unfolded: 111.8×33.7 x0.8 in Weight:30.2 lbs. They advertise it as highly durable. IP67 waterproof with a 5-year warranty.
In this first of two planned videos, I unpack, set up, and demonstrate this portable solar panel. I test its open-circuit voltage, short-circuit amperage, and output wattage in several real-world scenarios. The panel performed beyond my expectations, peaking at 444 watts!
400W Renogy Portable Solar Panel Demo
I’m looking forward to using it in the next few months, camping in our RV, and cruising on our live-aboard boat. Stay tuned, and I will return with part two of the review after using it for a longer term.
Boating Mod Update
In this second video, I show you how I use this lightweight solar suitcase on my 34-foot trawler boat. I’ve utilized a pair of kayak holders and 1″ PVC pipe to make a support frame off the outside deck rails. This keeps the panels out of my way and maximizes the chance of unshaded exposure. So far, it has worked well for us, helping to keep our boat batteries charged when off-the-grid anchoring.
Renogy 400W Solar Suitcase Links:
- USA – renogy.sjv.io/jrdmnn
- CA – renogy.sjv.io/ZQWNxR
- Amazon USA – https://amzn.to/45N1eoY
- Amazon Canada – https://amzn.to/3VElIvl
- 20 ft cables – https://amzn.to/3U5AJWa
