Quick picks
- Best overall kit: 400W panel + 40A MPPT controller — enough for a full weekend off-grid for most rigs.
- Best starter: 100–200W suitcase/portable kit — set it in the sun, no roof install.
- Best for full-timers: 600W+ rooftop array + MPPT — runs the fridge, electronics, and recharges lithium daily.
How much solar do you need?
| Your style | Panel wattage | Battery bank | Controller |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekender (lights, phones, fan) | 100–200W | 100Ah | PWM ok |
| Long weekends (fridge + electronics) | 300–400W | 200Ah lithium | MPPT |
| Full-timer / boondocker | 600W+ | 400Ah+ lithium | MPPT 50A+ |
Rule of thumb: your panels recharge what you use, and your battery bank is what you actually draw from overnight. Undersize the battery and big panels won't help; undersize the panels and you'll never refill. Size them together. (See our RV battery guide.)
The reviews
400W Rooftop Kit + 40A MPPT
The sweet spot for most RVers: enough wattage to keep a 200Ah lithium bank topped up through a long weekend, with an efficient MPPT controller that squeezes ~20–30% more out of the same panels versus cheap PWM.
Pros
- Recharges lithium in a day of sun
- MPPT efficiency
- Expandable later
Cons
- Roof install + wiring
- Needs roof space
100–200W Portable "Suitcase" Kit
No drilling, no roof work — unfold it, point it at the sun, and chase the light while you park in the shade. Perfect first step into solar and great for trickle-charging on storage.
Pros
- Zero installation
- Park in shade, panel in sun
- Stores away
Cons
- Lower total wattage
- Must set up/take down
600W+ Array + 50A MPPT
If you live in the rig, this is the daily driver: enough to run a 12V fridge, electronics, and recharge a 400Ah+ lithium bank under good sun — true off-grid independence.
Pros
- Daily full-time power
- Runs fridge + electronics
- Future-proof headroom
Cons
- Higher cost
- Significant roof + wiring work
How to choose
1. MPPT vs. PWM controllers
MPPT controllers are ~20–30% more efficient and worth it for any kit over ~200W or when panels and battery voltages don't match. PWM is fine for small, budget setups.
2. Match panels to your battery chemistry
Lithium (LiFePO4) charges faster and deeper than lead-acid, so it pairs best with bigger solar. If you're still on lead-acid, upgrading the battery often unlocks more from the solar you already have.
3. Don't forget wire gauge & fusing
Undersized wiring quietly steals watts and creates a fire risk. Use the kit's recommended gauge and proper fuses/breakers — or have it installed.