Van Life Essentials: I Bought Cheap Folding Solar Panels on Amazon

Today we unbox and compare a brand new type of solar panel which is a soft folding suitcase solar panel kit which has several major advantages. 1) They are tiny and extremely light which makes bringing them in and out of the vehicle very easy. 2) Because the panels are not flexible, they should be quite durable. 3) By putting them outside you can park the van in the shade and tilt the panels and track the sun with them. I think they are fantastic and can work great for many people!
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Thanks for watching!

[@Daz555Daz]

I have the Dokio 100W panel for my campervan. I'm a big fan of the Dokio panels. I have the solar controller wired into the van and then have a 10m cable which allows me to place the solar panels in the best location around my van. One thing I do advise though is to place a thin piece of soft material in between the panels when folded to prevent each panel slightly scratching the other when in contact.

[@kathypfohl]

Ok so I need the panels, extension cord and I also need a battery?

[@Daz555Daz]

@@kathypfohl well if you want to do something other that charge via USB you'll certainly want a battery!

[@sandeedobberstine5591]

Thanks for that note.

[@beethov3n]

How does the Dokio work after two years?

[@Daz555Daz]

@@beethov3n still going strong. The panel is still crystal clear and producing as many amps as when it was new. Camping right now as it happens.

[@HumbleVoyager]

This is fantastic! I’m not on the road at this time, but I’m gathering knowledge for the future. You just never know what’s around the corner in life. Thanks for the video. I imagine the people who get to test these will be so thankful to have them. 😎

[@mrtambourineman6107]

Hi, are you on the road yet?

[@tinavestal2154]

You just did what I thought couldn’t be done...you convinced me that I DO want portable soar panels as opposed to mounted ones. I’ve been trying to figure out how to mount solar on my contoured fiberglass roof, But, you are so right...with portable panels I can park my van in the shade and still charge my panels!!

[@StacyForest738]

That is our plan too. I love the versitility of these.

[@maryolson3677]

I'll be watching for your results. Also, for those who are on social security, it's easier to save for these.

[@cherylforfang8671]

Bob, you are the best! No one else is so informative on solar and the other aspects of nomadic life. Your videos are what piqued my interest in a different lifestyle. Keep up the great work you do!!

[@itsjustaname7721]

I have had the Dokio 200w for awhile now. I absolutely love it ❤️

[@bill71053]

Does it support lithium battert?

[@itsjustaname7721]

@@bill71053 I have lead acid it should support lithium battery

[@texedwards3039]

good info ,I am interested in getting solar , thanks !

[@kendarr]

Can you use it in series to produce 400w?i don't think anything less then 400/500 will work for me

[@AffirmativeArtsOnTheRoad]

Hello Bob! First I just have to tell you how much I sincerely appreciate ALL you do for the vanlife community...and for humanity in general. I am not exaggerating when I say that you have *saved my life* by helping me to see that vanlife is the way forward for me to rebuild my life in a way that includes my healing my tattered spirit and nervous system AND making my objectives into realities AND living closer to my values....you (and those you have interviewed too) have shown me that I CAN do it! I I would be SO grateful and honored if you would consider me when you decide who to give these solar suitcases away. I have been wanting to begin collecting some of the necessities for me future van build...but I am a middle-aged, ill with a chronic pain condition, living on an inadequate disability income...still working on figuring out HOW I'm ever going to get a van....but watching your channel EVERY DAY..keeps my hope alive! Having one of these solar suitcases would help me so much even just symbolically, but also, due to the fact that I remember how beautiful it was after hurricane Sandy, a few residents of my neighborhood came out with tiny little portable solar set ups and allowed neighbors to charge phones and tablets/laptops so we could contact friends and family and also coordinate to provide emergency assistance to elderly and disabled living in highrises without electricity for the elevators. We saved thousands of lives and we couldn't have done it without the communications that these few ppl with portable solar equipment made possible. If we ever have another such disaster, I want to be one of the neighbors with a solar set up that I can make available! I know you'll get thousands of requests to receive one of these, of course I understand if you cannot give one of them to me, but I thought you might feel good about my plans for it if you ARE able to choose me to receive one of them! Thank you for EVERYTHING you do to make the world a better place Bob! I can't wait to meet you at the RTR...if not this year...then next year!

[@Harleyglide03]

Thanks Bob. These are right on time. Just getting ready to buy some solar. I have been looking at these and know nothing about them. These videos really help.

[@ezmeraldadudortoka7549]

None of the panels in this video would do anything more than charge your cell phone and possibly a GoPro camera...

[@jamesglenn6461]

These power set ups could also work in off grid fixed structures.

[@octoberskye1049]

Very useful information and helpful testing of these units. Thank you, Bob! 🐯

[@lenurban]

A blessing of a video to a beginner.

[@teresaames972]

Can't wait for the results. Thank you for doing this.

[@QueenBaha]

I have waited a LONG LOOOOONG time for a video like this on “your” channel. Not everyone has big rigs & budgets for the traditional setup. I thank you BOB for this.

[@zedmak]

Baha Queen Bob is the bomb. Even ppl who have money don’t want to waste it on inferior products.. I don’t like to buy the same product more than 1x..

[@hg2.]

That's right. 194,000 views of hope.

[@ociana]

Thank goodness for people who keep searching to make things like this more accessible to the average person. Thanks, Bob!

[@kristylynn1329]

Thanks, Bob. Amazingly useful information exactly when I needed it!

[@safiteaprivate1997]

Have you posted a follow-up someplace in regards to the longevity of these solar panels?

[@raveninavaniam9438]

I especially appreciate the information in this one as well .... I cannot wait to be able to seriously binge watch every one of your videos because it's only in recent times I've discovered you and your KZbin along with other KZbinrs and I'm in Northern Wisconsin so I really have quite the mix of weather and it gets miserably and dangerously extreme up here ... so I need things that are quite durable, reliable and long lasting because the weather especially in Winter can be quite deadly if we are out camping ... on the road... or in any such situation. Myself and Friends really appreciate all of the incredible information you have to offer and I will be sharing this link thank you so much for taking the time to teach all that you do and really provide so much information!!

[@lisaconfetti7396]

There's also a 300 watt Dokio

[@meyou9651]

Wow....I'm excited for the future results!!!!

[@priusdave2064]

I’m so glad you brought up the durability issue. I’ve seen them and it’s really hard for me to believe these panels are durable. I would go for a stiffer panel not a flimsy fabric one. A Jackery panel is a high priced portable but has a five year warranty. There are other portable panels built much stronger with better ROI. Thanks for the solid review!

[@RLeeVanCamps]

Thanks you so much for all the information that the common person can understand! Keep up the good work. Greatly appreciated. Also love it that you share your wealth of knowledge. And find it amazing that in this day and age you are giving so much to other people! There is a great place for you

[@higgnbe]

I've had the dokio 100 folding panels and have ran them over twice left them out in several storms 2 years so far no problems the output has dropped a bit due to scratches and such but for a hundred bucks I'm happy

[@milwaukeebrewhouse]

As someone doing this as weekend or vacation trips charging with the vehicle running was my main option as I’ll be going constantly. These would give me a cheap way to charge that battery if I stay in one spot for a couple days of a week vacation. I’m very interested to see how this goes.

[@triaticnomadics1108]

Before my first 200-watt Dokio panels were destroyed in strong desert winds (my fault for leaving them out), the red rims faded to pink and the corners of the actual panels frayed a bit. I had the panels for about 6 months. Even so, I bought another one just like it summer of 2018 and have taken better care of it. The red rims have faded by this summer but still works great! My advice, just because they can flex doesn't mean you should flex them as much as you want. I treat mine as though they do not flex. I keep mine behind my captains chair in my class C rv...fits perfectly.

[@nathanielcohen9890]

i am putting a couple in my LSA aircraft........nothing like movie night in a tent on a remote mountain top with a laptop and ipad.

[@ASHEVILLEMOVINGCOMPANY]

Thank you so much for looking out for us all we are #grateful for everything you do

[@jeffreywaldron6352]

Great video Bob great information you always give out great information and I thank you and I hope many others do too I look forward to your videos

[@WestShoreMan]

I have the Suaoki 100 watt. Its Great!

[@lizb7777]

You always share useful information.

[@cyndiharrington1751]

Thank you for the INFO on good solar products .I live in an RV .

[@charleenschell5582]

Thank You 😄 for all you do to help us be SUCCESSFUL💓

[@cheryltemple7188]

I really like your headkercheif !!! It looks to be "scenic" in nature. Colors graduate from green grasses to sunny sky to mountains far away! That is what I see in this video. The products are great as well...thank you for all you contribute to the lifestyle...

[@flyfish6473]

6:18 On the Acopower panel, the ~2"x12" strip is one of 3 legs to prop the panel up, that's a nice feature.

[@laven111]

One of your most informative video's Bob . I am going to buy one of those. I have 2 Marine Battery's that I want to power a small fridge, a new small flat screen TV, RCA antenna and a Fan . I like the Renogy. I will let you know how it works out. Thanks

[@dennisverville6014]

Thanks Bob for all the information, great job and public service for like minded people. ✌

[@garyquernemoen2513]

Great intro to comparing solar options

[@slowingdownjo276]

Perfect for my needs, I'm going to try one, will let you know, minivan dweller, Slowing down Jo

[@badbob8394]

It would be interesting to see the actual output for each!

[@sherryhughes2757]

Thanks Bob ,am getting ready to sale my mobile home ,can't afford it ,and get on the road hopefully by fall .love all your videos full of much needed info .but I think I will love this new life style

[@chillywilly3397]

I don't know if you or anyone else mentioned it but when you held up that suitcase panel I immediately thought of the racks on the side of vans that Glass companies use to transport large sheets of glass. If one was installed it could be a good place to "install" or transport the suitcase solar panels.

[@myfavoritethings1920]

Bob Wells ... it is really a blessing that you started your channel. You are so informative and helpful. I have been watching you for a very long time. I have a dream of traveling as a nomad, but need a van. Still looking for an affordable high top... hard to find.

[@2000talon]

I like the grommet holes acopower has to help string them up. incorporated into the carry bag . Every little bit helps .

[@maricarbo]

I bought an Aiunsey 500watt solar generator on Amazon for cheap, and am saving up to get myself a 100 Watt solar panel. I found a great priced one on Amazon but do not have the money yet to buy it. But my plan is to get the solar panel and use it daily to not be ignorant about these things the next time the power goes out.

[@soytainly]

Hi Bob - have you done a follow up on any of these yet?

[@suzyburke]

Hi Bob, great video. I would love to volunteer for the long term testing! I will be joining the caravan group soon.

[@Candypk13]

Looking forward to what you find out. I’m looking for solar for my camper.

[@Plethington]

I have had great luck with the Renogy kits.

[@ellagenoa5545]

Bob, I think that is so cool that you are going to give these solar panels away to other people. Personally, I might just buy one to try out at my house before I take a hike.

[@rtc977]

Congratulations from Spain . Your videos are very useful and instructive .

[@lyralong]

Very helpful. Thanks. We need this for our cabin in Oregon... off grid all the way.

[@digitaldazzle5836]

I love this guy. He’s so cool

[@genethecook2300]

Darn, I'm just catching this for the first time. I missed out on the solar panels lol. Anyway I love what you're doing keep up the good job. I'm starting to learn quite a bit from you. And I think I'll be seeing you pretty soon LOL! Somewhere on the road.

[@wildflowerwind6941]

This is exactly what I needed to see and learn.

[@sylviajones4907]

Thanks Bob! And Co! (Great video/audio work.)

[@margicain2477]

I was just in Winslow, Arizona! Took pics on the corner & visited the gift shop! Love your video's. Keep up the good work. 😃

[@freetob1]

I am looking for something in solar too and I need light and small and maybe can add on too. Thanks so much Bob for bringing this to us.

[@joycetaylor3484]

This is really good to know ,I'm getting stuff t o gather for next spring 2021 going to take the whole summer and go, I have a 97 dodge van I'm going to do been watching your video s. And others once again thank you for all you post

[@SOFISINTOWN]

Bob, very time you do a solar video, I feel glad that I did not buy solar panels yet! Thank you!

[@gerrystrohl3823]

Thanks Bob!! Just what I've been looking for!

[@karinhart489]

Wow, the Dokio 100watt is sold out at 4pm PDT on 6/24. But a 100w folding hard metal frame one from Dokio is only $150.

[@jenallen5202]

I saw that also. The 80 a d 200 are still available. Good luck.

[@johnralston5818]

...Thanks Bob.. i saw these Dokio panels on Amazon & put them on my wishlist... now i see you are reviewing them ; )... talk about timing... i'm waiting on your reports, so Thanks Again.

[@familygene9030]

Great idea Bob , I want by one ..

[@BackwudzCountryboy]

Just found your channel, looking forward to part 3... I am starting a small solar boat project.. and these look promising... Love your enthusiasm!

[@sacksiths9961]

Very good solar panel

[@darlarubottom6736]

Thanks Bob for the info. I never knew these existed. Will be interesting to see how they work out for ya. Good luck and travel safe.

[@jls9225]

You are awesome.

[@ptshyu2]

Would it be possible to to hook multiple of these panels into one charger?

[@bobWsterguy]

Bob, I'd be very happy to longer-term test a Dokio panel for you. Let me know? Thanks BobC

[@clarklindquist8137]

This is a solution I need I believe. Awesome

[@maryatvan]

Hello Bob, it is July 21st now and I eagerly await your interval solar test results. Ths is the comprehensive overview that I needed. I haven't purchased a solar pkg. to avoid buying wrong product. Your review will be worth waiting for. ✔🌞

[@callingyouout3954]

I"m wondering if the smaller ones can have a double function. Maybe they can be both your solar panel AND your windshield solar shield depending on how big your windshield is. If it fits, put it in with the solar side out to keep out the sun and keep your rig cool..

[@chasstiles7611]

QUICK!! Pattened it before Gene Simmons does

[@TheHermitHacker]

Good timing. I've got a lady friend who could use something like one of these. I personally wouldn't mind testing myself too.

[@mondavou9408]

Bob, when you get a chance, can we get a long term update on how these panels have fared?

[@mahdiomran6345]

Thanks Bob for the great info. ✋👍 all the best

[@davidclarke2341]

Great information thanks so much.

[@flpirate4565]

Great information, explains everything that I really need. Thank You Bob

[@ronaldsahn9649]

I have one of these I like it.

[@ctech24]

Great info Bob! I’m not van guy yet but I’m getting a set for tent camping!

[@Pack.Leader]

Thank you, Bob. I'm loving this 3-part series. I haven't finished this video or seen the 3rd one yet but it would be wonderful if you could do a video showing how people could securely set those suitcase deals up at an angle in such a way that it can withstand some wind and not be a total PIA all day. What would be required? What additional gadgets might one need?

[@maricarbo]

Thank you for the review.

[@hotcoco3200]

I just purchased the Dokio 100 watt two months ago, so far so good. The only issue is wind, so I couldn’t just prop it up at an angle. I had to lay it flat on the ground.

[@dawn7882]

I own several brands of foldable solar panels and the dokia is my least favorite. They don't get anywhere near the stated watts. That said I'll stick with hard panels as they are so much better constructed. When my foldables give out I'll charge with my large chargers. When my little Jackerys give out I won't replace them. I'll stick with my Opus gennys

[@elfeo1js]

I wonder if Renogy is watching. Step your game up

[@MDC2020]

Bob is now solar panel rich lol

[@eddymahon1503]

I just bought a Jackery 50 watt panel and it was $240. Ouch but it is good quality. Very solid but kind of pricey

[@michaeltichonuk2176]

Thanks!

[@keithguiste2659]

Love this video! Thanks a lot😊 i am intending to build a solar canopy on a recumbent trike in the next year or so and the dokio brand is looking very attractive to me. I would really like to see info about how they stand up to weather, specifically rain

[@Totogita]

May be I missed it but you did not mention warranty for these products

[@Flying1976]

M. Payan I am interested in being a part of your long term research. I have been living out of my pathfinder for three years and looking to use solar system for my living situation. Thank You for your generosity to whom ever you choose and for explaining the system on KZbin

[@lindaselover2536]

I am looking forward to your reviews to see how dependable these are. How do I figure out how much power I need to run a C-pap machine for 8 hours a night? When does one need an Inverter?

[@justmona9647]

I'm glad you bought the different sized units to compare! I was wondering about the 250 versus the 80 although I don't need the higher level of amps at this time

[@juliadawnyel3648]

What size would you want for icebox or air-condition or heater

[@paolomartini150]

The SAE extensions available on line are all too short and the long ones are all in AWG 16 and up unfortunately. It would be nice to find those in AWG 10 or 12 that are longer than 6 ft. Also the DOKIO panel is ony 12v out. It would be nice to make them work in series.

[@dondiego124]

great video thanks

[@debramcdonald2516]

Good review.

[@onetimeoutdoorsdj1394]

Thank you for this video I just found your channel and I am so thankful for itI have been homeless living in a tent and recently just found a basement to rentbut I would much rather have a van and live out of it I would love the opportunity to test the solar panels it would be such a blessing

[@ljones6767]

Hi Bob. I don't know much about solar panels yet. Would someone be able to connect together two-100W folding panels and then connect to the battery?

[@billhudgens7843]

Outstanding video!

[@wherewomenwander2921]

I read the reviews on a lot of these. I would suggest others to do the same. The Dokio ones has terrible reviews. Some of the panels are bowing. I have to be real careful living in Florida.

[@tinamarie9047]

I think I'll definitely look into the less expensive one. I'm getting so many mixed reports on whether or not you even need solar if your alternator will charge you battery bank. 😟

[@mycocoaone]

This makes more sense for my jerp!

[@mycocoaone]

Jeep