Best Solar Panels for RVs

Roof-mounted, tilt-mounted, or portable — find the right solar panels for your motorhome, travel trailer, or fifth wheel.

Size My RV System

How Much Solar Fits on Your RV?

RV roof space varies dramatically by type. Here's a rough guide after accounting for AC units, vents, and antennas:

Travel Trailer

400–800W
20–30 ft models

Fifth Wheel

600–1200W
Flat upper deck

Class C / B+

400–600W
Cab-over limits space

Class A

800–1600W
Largest roof area

RV Mounting Options

Flat Roof Mount (Z-Brackets)

The most common RV mounting method. Z-brackets bolt to the panel frame and screw into the roof with Dicor self-leveling sealant over the screws. Provides a 1–2 inch air gap for cooling. Panels sit flat — no tilt adjustment. Best for full-time travelers who move frequently.

Tilt Mounts

Adjustable tilt brackets let you angle panels 15–45° toward the sun. This can boost output by 15–25% in winter when the sun is lower. Worth the extra cost if you boondock in one spot for days or weeks. Not ideal for frequent driving — you must lay panels flat before moving.

Portable / Ground Deploy

Portable suitcase panels (100–200W) that you set up on the ground and connect via a long cable. Great as a supplement — you can angle them at the sun and place them in unshaded spots while your RV is parked in shade. Not a replacement for roof panels on larger systems.

RV Solar Panel Tips

  • Use the largest panels that fit — fewer panels means fewer connections, less wiring, and fewer potential leak points on the roof. A single 400W panel replaces two 200W panels.
  • Wire panels in series for MPPT controllers to reduce current and allow thinner wires. Most MPPT controllers accept up to 100V or 150V input.
  • Consider snow load if you winter camp. Panels must handle the weight of accumulated snow. All standard glass-front panels handle this; some ultra-thin flexible panels may not.
  • Roof sealant is critical. Any penetration through the roof must be sealed properly with Dicor self-leveling lap sealant. Re-check annually. A leak from a poorly sealed panel mount can cause thousands in water damage.
  • Don't forget the charge controller. An MPPT controller is 15–20% more efficient than PWM, especially with panels wired in series at higher voltage. It pays for itself in increased output.
Weekend warriors vs. full-timers: If you mostly use hookups and only boondock occasionally, even 200W of solar with a single 100Ah LiFePO4 battery handles lights, fridge, and device charging. Full-time boondockers should aim for 400W+ and 200–400Ah of LiFePO4.

Calculate your exact solar needs

Enter your RV appliances and get a personalized recommendation for panels, batteries, and more.

RV Solar Calculator
Full RV Solar Guide Solar Panel Database