Solar Panels for 4X4 Overlanding & Off-Grid Power
Generate your own electricity wherever the road takes you with high-quality solar panels from 4X4GT.
Our solar panel range is designed for a wide variety of applications, including 4×4 overlanding, campervans, motorhomes, caravans, marine systems and off-grid power.
We stock a strong range of Victron solar panels, alongside other quality monocrystalline and bifacial solar panels. With different wattages available, you can choose a panel to suit everything from smaller 12V battery systems to larger off-grid installations.
Whether you are building a new electrical system or adding more solar capacity to an existing setup, our range gives you plenty of options.
Solar Panels for 4X4 Overlanding
When you are travelling away from mains electricity, solar power can provide a valuable source of renewable energy.
For 4×4 overlanding, a well-designed solar system can help keep your batteries charged while you explore remote locations.
Instead of relying entirely on campsites or running your vehicle simply to generate electricity, solar panels can use daylight to replenish your available battery power.
This makes solar power particularly useful for longer adventures.
You can use a suitable solar panel alongside a 12V battery, solar charge controller, inverter or portable power station to create a flexible off-grid electrical system.
Power Your Adventures Off-Grid
Overlanding is about travelling independently.
Therefore, having a reliable source of electrical energy can make a major difference to your setup.
Solar panels can help provide power for suitable equipment such as lighting, refrigeration, communications equipment, cameras and other electrical devices.
The exact equipment you can operate will depend on your battery capacity, inverter and overall electrical system.
However, adding solar generation can significantly increase your ability to remain self-sufficient away from mains electricity.
Victron Solar Panels
A large part of our solar panel range comes from Victron Energy, a well-known manufacturer of equipment for mobile, marine and off-grid electrical systems.
Our Victron range includes different panel sizes, allowing you to select a suitable output for your installation.
Available models include smaller panels such as 20W, 30W, 40W, 55W and 90W, through to larger 130W, 150W, 185W, 215W and 305W panels.
This range makes Victron solar panels suitable for many different applications.
Why Choose Victron Solar Panels?
Victron solar panels are designed for reliable energy generation and are particularly well suited to mobile and off-grid applications.
Depending on the model, features include monocrystalline solar cells, low-light performance, durable construction and high-quality tempered glass.
Many Victron panels also feature anodised aluminium frames and pre-wired connections for straightforward installation.
For a complete Victron electrical system, the panels can also be combined with compatible Victron solar charge controllers, batteries, inverters and monitoring equipment.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Most of the panels in our range use monocrystalline solar technology.
Monocrystalline solar panels are popular because they offer good efficiency from a relatively compact panel size.
This can be particularly important in mobile applications.
A campervan roof, motorhome, caravan or 4×4 has limited space. Therefore, making good use of the available roof area can be important when designing your solar system.
Our range gives you the flexibility to choose a suitable panel based on the available space and the amount of energy your system requires.
What Does Monocrystalline Mean?
Monocrystalline solar cells are manufactured using a single-crystal silicon structure.
This allows the cells to convert sunlight into electricity efficiently.
In practical terms, monocrystalline panels provide a proven solar technology for a wide range of residential, mobile and off-grid applications.
They are also available in many different panel sizes and power ratings.
Solar Panels for Campervans & Motorhomes
Solar power is particularly useful for campervans and motorhomes.
When travelling, your vehicle can become your home away from home. That means your electrical system may need to support lighting, refrigeration, charging and other equipment.
A suitable solar panel for a motorhome can help replenish your leisure battery during daylight hours.
This can reduce your reliance on mains hook-ups and provide greater freedom when choosing where to stay.
For longer trips, combining solar panels with a suitably sized battery bank provides even greater energy independence.
Solar Panels for Caravans
A solar panel for a caravan can provide a useful source of additional energy when you are away from an electrical hook-up.
Solar generation can help maintain a suitable leisure battery and support the electrical demands of your camping setup.
The correct panel size will depend on your battery capacity, energy consumption and available installation space.
Smaller systems may suit occasional campers, while larger panels can provide more generation for longer stays away from mains electricity.
Solar Panels for Marine Applications
Solar panels are also widely used in marine electrical systems.
Boats and yachts can benefit from solar generation because the panels can help maintain onboard battery systems while the vessel is away from shore power.
Victron solar panels are available in a range of sizes suitable for different mobile and marine applications.
When selecting a panel for a marine installation, always consider the available space, environmental conditions and the requirements of the complete electrical system.
Bifacial Solar Panels
Alongside our Victron range, we also offer alternative solar technologies, including bifacial solar panels.
A bifacial solar panel can capture light from both the front and rear of the panel.
Our 250W bifacial monocrystalline panel is designed to use reflected light from behind the panel to potentially increase energy generation, depending on the installation and surrounding conditions.
This makes bifacial technology an interesting option where the installation allows light to reach the rear of the panel.
250W Bifacial Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Our 250W bifacial monocrystalline solar panel provides a higher-output option for customers looking beyond the Victron range.
It is suitable for applications including smaller off-grid systems, campervans and other installations where additional solar generation is required.
The panel combines monocrystalline solar cells with bifacial technology, allowing it to capture light from both sides.
As a result, the installation environment can have an important influence on its overall performance.
Choosing the Right Solar Panel
Choosing the right solar panel is not simply about buying the highest wattage available.
You need to consider your available installation space, battery voltage, daily energy requirements and the type of solar charge controller you are using.
Start by looking at your electrical requirements.
How much energy do you use each day?
How much battery capacity do you have?
How much roof or mounting space is available?
Once you understand these requirements, you can select an appropriate panel or combination of panels.
What Solar Panel Wattage Do I Need?
Solar panels are available in different wattages because different systems have different energy requirements.
A smaller panel can be ideal for maintaining a battery or supporting a low-power setup.
A larger panel can generate more energy during suitable daylight conditions and may be better suited to higher electrical demands.
Our range includes panels from 20W through to 305W and beyond, with different technologies and configurations available.
For larger systems, multiple panels can also be combined where the electrical design allows it.
Solar Panels and 12V Battery Systems
Solar panels are commonly used to charge 12V leisure and deep-cycle batteries.
However, a solar panel should normally be connected through a suitable solar charge controller rather than directly to a battery.
The controller regulates the charging process and helps ensure that the battery receives an appropriate charging voltage and current.
For a complete system, you may therefore need:
- Solar panels
- Solar charge controller
- Leisure or deep-cycle battery
- Appropriate solar cables
- Connectors
- Inverter if AC power is required
The exact components will depend on your system design.
Solar Charge Controllers
A solar charge controller is an important part of many solar power systems.
It sits between the solar panels and battery and controls the energy flowing into the battery.
Victron offers a wide range of compatible solar charge controllers, including MPPT technology designed to maximise the available energy from your solar panels.
Choosing the correct controller is important.
The panel voltage, current, battery voltage and total solar array output all need to be considered.
Solar Panels for Off-Grid Systems
Solar power is an excellent choice for applications where access to mains electricity is limited or unavailable.
This includes:
- 4×4 overlanding
- Campervans
- Motorhomes
- Caravans
- Boats
- Remote cabins
- Backup power systems
- Small off-grid installations
- Camping setups
The advantage is simple.
Once installed correctly, your panels can generate electricity from sunlight without requiring fuel or mains electricity.
Solar Panels for European Overlanding
For 4×4 overlanding in Europe, solar power can become an important part of your self-sufficient travel setup.
When travelling for several days, your battery system needs a way to replace the energy you use.
Solar panels can provide that additional energy during daylight hours.
This is particularly useful when you are camping away from established campsites.
Whether you are travelling through France, Italy, Germany or the Alpine regions, a well-designed solar system can give you greater freedom to explore away from mains connections.
Build Your Complete Solar Power System
Solar panels are only one part of a complete off-grid electrical system.
For a reliable setup, your panels need to work correctly with your batteries, charge controller and other electrical equipment.
At 4X4GT, you can combine solar panels with other equipment designed for off-grid and overlanding applications.
Consider pairing your solar panels with:
Deep Cycle Batteries
A deep cycle battery provides a place to store the energy generated by your solar panels.
This stored energy can then be used when the sun is not producing power.
Portable Power Stations
For a flexible camping setup, you can combine suitable portable solar panels with a portable power station.
The solar panels generate energy during daylight hours, while the power station stores that energy for later use.
This can be particularly useful for camping and overlanding.
Solar Charge Controllers
A suitable solar charge controller connects the solar panels to the battery and manages the charging process.
For Victron systems, a compatible Victron controller can form part of a complete Victron electrical setup.
Solar Panel Installation
Solar panels can be installed in a variety of ways depending on their intended application.
Rigid panels are commonly mounted to roofs, frames and other permanent structures.
For vehicles such as campervans and motorhomes, roof-mounted panels provide a permanent source of solar generation.
For 4x4s and temporary camping setups, portable folding panels provide another option.
The important thing is to ensure the panels are securely mounted and correctly connected.
If you are unsure about the electrical requirements of your system, seek appropriate professional advice before installation.
Rigid vs Portable Solar Panels
At 4X4GT, we offer both rigid solar panels and portable folding solar panels.
Rigid panels are ideal when you want a permanent installation.
They are particularly suitable for motorhomes, caravans, campervans and fixed off-grid systems.
Portable panels, however, provide greater flexibility.
They can be stored during travel and deployed when you arrive at your destination.
Therefore, the best option depends on how you use your vehicle and how much flexibility you need.
Why Choose Solar Panels from 4X4GT?
At 4X4GT, our solar range has been selected with overlanding and off-grid adventure in mind.
We stock a strong range of Victron solar panels, while also offering alternative technologies and panel sizes for different applications.
Whether you need a small panel for maintaining a battery or a larger panel for a more demanding off-grid system, our range gives you options.
And because solar power is such an important part of self-sufficient travel, we can also provide related equipment including batteries, portable power stations and portable solar panels.
Find the Right Solar Panel for Your Setup
Choosing the right solar panel is an important part of building a reliable off-grid electrical system.
Think about your energy requirements, battery capacity, available installation space and how you intend to use the system.
Then choose a panel that provides the right balance of output, size and technology.
From compact 20W Victron solar panels through to larger 305W models and alternative 250W bifacial technology, 4X4GT offers solar solutions for a wide range of applications.
Explore our full range of solar panels and start building a reliable power system for your next adventure.
Build Your Complete Off-Grid Power System
Solar panels are an important part of any off-grid electrical system, but they are only one part of the solution.
For a permanent installation on a 4×4, campervan, motorhome or caravan, our range of solar panels can be combined with suitable batteries and solar charge controllers to create a reliable source of renewable power.
However, if you want the flexibility to set up your solar system wherever you stop, take a look at our portable solar panels. Folding designs are ideal for camping and overlanding because they can be stored while travelling and deployed when you arrive at camp.
For a complete portable energy solution, you can also combine solar generation with one of our portable power stations. The solar panels generate electricity, while the power station stores that energy for use when you need it.
Three Ways to Build Your Power System
Permanent solar power: Choose our solar panels for roof-mounted and fixed installations.
Flexible solar power: Explore our portable solar panels when you want to generate power wherever you set up camp.
Stored portable power: Choose a portable power station when you need stored electrical energy for camping, overlanding and off-grid adventures.
Together, these options give you greater freedom to create the right power solution for your vehicle and your adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panels
What type of solar panels does 4X4GT sell?
4X4GT sells a range of solar panels including Victron monocrystalline solar panels, alternative monocrystalline panels and bifacial solar panels.
The range includes different wattages for mobile, off-grid and overlanding applications.
Are Victron solar panels good for overlanding?
Victron solar panels are well suited to mobile and off-grid electrical systems.
They can be used alongside compatible Victron charge controllers, batteries and other equipment to create a complete solar power system.
What is a monocrystalline solar panel?
A monocrystalline solar panel uses solar cells made from monocrystalline silicon.
This technology is widely used because it offers good efficiency and makes effective use of the available panel area.
What size solar panel do I need for a 4×4?
The right size depends on your battery capacity and daily energy consumption.
You should also consider how much roof or mounting space is available.
Smaller panels can suit low-power systems, while larger panels provide greater potential energy generation.
Can solar panels charge a 12V battery?
Yes, solar panels can be used to charge suitable 12V batteries when connected through an appropriate solar charge controller.
The panel and controller must be correctly matched to the battery and overall electrical system.
Do I need a solar charge controller?
For most battery-based solar systems, yes.
A solar charge controller regulates the energy from the solar panels before it reaches the battery.
The correct controller depends on the panel output and battery system.
Are solar panels suitable for campervans?
Yes. Solar panels are widely used on campervans to generate electricity for leisure battery systems.
A correctly sized solar system can help reduce reliance on mains hook-ups during trips.
Are solar panels suitable for motorhomes and caravans?
Yes. Solar panels can provide additional energy for motorhome and caravan electrical systems.
They can help maintain leisure batteries and provide energy when mains electricity is unavailable.
What is a bifacial solar panel?
A bifacial solar panel can capture sunlight from both the front and rear of the panel.
The amount of additional energy generated depends on the installation, surface beneath the panel and amount of reflected light available.
What is the difference between rigid and portable solar panels?
Rigid solar panels are generally designed for permanent installation.
Portable solar panels can be folded, transported and positioned when required.
Rigid panels are therefore often better for permanent vehicle installations, while portable panels offer greater flexibility for camping and temporary setups.
Can I use Victron solar panels with a Victron charge controller?
Yes, Victron solar panels can be incorporated into Victron solar systems using a compatible charge controller.
However, you should always check the panel’s voltage and current specifications against the controller’s limits before installation.
Can I use solar panels for 4×4 overlanding?
Absolutely. Solar panels can be a valuable part of a 4×4 overlanding electrical system.
They can generate energy during daylight hours and help replenish your battery system while you are travelling away from mains electricity.
Can I combine multiple solar panels?
Multiple solar panels can often be combined to create a larger solar array.
However, the panels need to be configured correctly and the solar charge controller must be capable of handling the resulting voltage and current.
Always check the specifications before connecting panels together.
Take a Look at these other great pages about Overlanding
| Read all about Overlanding in Europe | Read all about Overlanding in Italy | Read all about Overlanding in France | Read all about Overlanding in Austria |
