How Portable Solar Panels are Revolutionizing Canadian RV and Van Life

In recent years, there has been an exponential rise in the popularity of RV and van living across Canada. More and more Canadians are embracing the freedom, adventure, and flexibility that comes with this type of lifestyle. Reportedly, more than 50,000 RVs were shipped to Canada in 2022 alone, which was 16% more than those shipped in 2021. However, there are some challenges associated with mobile living, the top of which is the lack of proper power supply to the vehicle. RV solar panels mainly tackle this problem. Proper RV solar panels can easily power your van so that you will never face any power disruption while enjoying the freedom that comes with van living.

To solve this problem for RV enthusiasts, Jackery brings modern-day RV solar panels that will absolutely eliminate your worries of a power disruption in an RV lifestyle. These products are highly portable, not to mention that they can also power all the home appliances that you may need in an RV.

Why Are People Interested in RV and Van Living in Canada?

RV and van living has captured the hearts and imaginations of countless individuals across Canada. The freedom, adventure, and ability to immerse oneself in the beauty of diverse landscapes have fueled the growing interest in this unique lifestyle.

Here are some unique experiences that come with this lifestyle.

Sense of Freedom

RV and van living offers a liberating sense of freedom that appeals to many Canadians. The ability to hit the road and explore the country at one’s own pace is a significant traction of this lifestyle. Mobile dwellers relish the opportunity to experience the breathtaking natural wonders of Canada, visit remote locations, and discover hidden gems that are often inaccessible to people bound by the constraints of permanent residences.

Exploring the Nature

The allure of RV and van living lies in the unparalleled connection with nature. Be it the majestic Niagara Falls of Canada, moraine lake, Banff National Park, or any other natural attraction of the country, you can hit the place of your choice at whichever time you want.

Finding the Financial Freedom

Many Canadians are also embracing mobile living due to skyrocketing housing prices across the country. In the first quarter of 2023, the average housing prices in Canada have risen more than $100,000, but RV enthusiasts do not need to worry about it.

Challenges of the RV Living in Canada

While RVs and vans have their own charm, there are many challenges associated with them, including:

Accessibility To Power

The biggest challenge that RV enthusiasts face is the access to power. As you have to live a remote lifestyle, there is no constant power supply out there, so you need reliable RV solar panels that can help you live comfortably.

Driving the Vehicle Regularly

Even if you are an expert driver, it can be extremely challenging to drive your RV at times. These challenges can happen due to the general fatigue and the possible burnout that you may get with constantly driving around the cities.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Another challenge associated with RV living is the possibility of extreme weather conditions in some parts of Canada. Whether it is the recent wildfire smoke of Canada that has troubled many RV enthusiasts, the intense heat of summer that hits the country in different months across the year, or even the chilling winter that can leave you frozen, Canadians can see all types of weather conditions. These weather extremes make RV living in Canada challenging.

Difficulties to Visit Remote Locations

The vastness of Canada means that many areas of interest are located far from major cities and towns. Look at some of these majestic remote locations that are must visit for any Canadian RV enthusiast. The remote province of Saskatchewan, which is full of magnificent landscapes. Or even the tri-cities of Ontario that are more challenging to access. So if you are planning to visit these sorts of areas in the RV, you can expect a challenging journey.

Road Conditions

Canada’s diverse terrain brings with it varying road conditions, from well-maintained highways to challenging mountain passes and unpaved backroads. In certain regions, RV and van dwellers must be prepared for long travel distances, rugged terrains, and potential obstacles, such as limited fuel stations or campgrounds.

Operation and benefits of solar panels and solar kits

As the irregular power supply is the biggest challenge of RV living, this means that every potential RV lifestyle enthusiast needs to have good knowledge of solar panels.

In fact, there is a debate about generators vs. solar panels for RV, which shows that some RV lovers are still inclined towards traditional generators that are not suitable anymore for the RV lifestyle.

Solar panels operate through the photovoltaic process, where sunlight is converted into electrical energy. The panels consist of solar cells that contain semiconductor materials, such as silicon. When sunlight strikes these cells, it stimulates the release of electrons, generating an electric current.

The direct current (DC) produced by solar panels is then converted into alternating current (AC) through an inverter. This conversion enables the utilization of solar-generated electricity to power various appliances and devices commonly found in RVs.

Benefits of Solar Panels and Solar Kits

Solar panels have so many benefits that they cannot be ignored in today’s world. Let’s look at them.

• Solar panels provide you with renewable and sustainable energy
• It helps you completely eliminate your electricity cost
• It gives you energy independence and a reliable energy source
• Solar panels have immense environmental benefits

Now let’s look at the benefits of solar kits that include solar panels and other necessary hardware.

• These kits are all-in-one solutions as they provide a comprehensive and convenient package, typically including solar panels, charge controllers, mounting hardware, and wiring. These kits offer a straightforward solution for individuals who prefer a hassle-free installation process without the need for extensive technical knowledge.
• Solar kits are portable and versatile as they are designed for mobility and can be easily transported and set up in various locations. This versatility allows users to adapt to different environments and optimize sun exposure for maximum energy generation. Portable kits are particularly popular among RV owners, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals in off-grid situations.
• Solar kits often offer expandability, allowing users to start with a basic setup and gradually add more panels or storage capacity as their energy needs evolve. This scalability ensures flexibility and accommodates future expansions or modifications, which allows RV enthusiasts to scale up things as per their needs.

Benefits of Solar Panels in RV

Solar panels are the most essential component of any RV. Here are the benefits of the solar panels for RV.

Energy Independence

One of the key advantages of RV solar panels is the ability to achieve energy independence. By generating their own power, they reduce or eliminate fuel-related expenses for generators and campground hookups fees.

Cost Savings

Solar panels offer long-term cost savings for RV and van owners. By generating their own power, they reduce or eliminate expenses related to fuel for generators and fees for campground hookups. The initial investment in RV solar panels can be recovered over time, resulting in significant savings and a positive return on investment.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Solar panels contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. By utilizing renewable solar energy, RV and van owners reduce their carbon footprint and decrease their reliance on fossil fuels. This environmentally conscious approach aligns with the growing global focus on mitigating climate change and protecting the planet for future generations.

Reliable Power Source

In the mobile living lifestyle, a reliable power source is essential. RV solar panels provide a consistent and dependable supply of electricity, ensuring that essential appliances, devices, and systems such as lighting, refrigeration, heating, and communication devices remain powered, regardless of location or time of day.

Quiet and Non-Intrusive Operation

Compared to traditional generators, RV solar panels operate silently and without emitting harmful fumes or noise. This quiet and non-intrusive operation enhances the overall camping experience and maintains tranquility in campgrounds or natural settings.

Now let’s see at the most commonly used method of solar: roof-mounted solar panels.

Roof-mounted solar panels are a popular choice for RVs and vans. By installing solar panels on the roof, owners can maximize sun exposure and take advantage of the available space. It is crucial to ensure proper installation and positioning to optimize energy generation.

Jackery Recommendation

Seeing the continuous trouble of RV enthusiasts, Jackery brings state-of-the-art power stations and solar generator for that will solve all the needs of any RV traveler.

Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Portable Power Station

Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Power Station has a large capacity of 1512W, providing a maximum output of 1800W with a surge capacity of 3600W. This means it can power a wide range of appliances and electronic devices in an RV. When paired with Jackery SolarSaga solar panels, the generator can be fully charged within 4 hours. Moreover, it can be fully charged via an AC adapter in just 2 hours, not to mention that it supports car charging also.

Despite its large capacity, the Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Portable Power Station is compact and lightweight, weighing just 37.48 lbs. This makes it ideal for taking on camping trips or installing in RVs and vans. The solar panels are foldable for easy transportation and storage.

The following is a summary of the Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Portable Power Station's features:

• Powerful portable power station with a 1512Wh capacity
• Provides a pure sine wave AC output for safe and clean power
• Supports a maximum continuous power output of 1800W and a surge power output of 3600W
• Multiple charging options: solar panels, AC wall outlets, and car DC ports
• Fast charging capability, fully charging in 4 hours with the optional 6*100W solar panels
• Simultaneously charges multiple devices with various output ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and AC outlets
• Enhanced battery management system (BMS) for optimal performance and battery protection
• Built-in LCD screen displays real-time battery status, input/output wattage, and remaining runtime
• Portable and lightweight design, weighing only 37.48 lbs
• Backed by a 3-year warranty and exceptional customer support

Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro Portable Power Station

Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro Portable Power Station is a remarkable device that weighs only 43 lbs and has a massive 2160Wh capacity that can charge and power multiple devices at the same time. The Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro Portable Power Station also has various output ports to accommodate a variety of devices. It features 3x AC 2000W, 2x USB-A 18W, 2x USB-C PD 100W, and 1x car 12V DC port, providing plenty of options for charging and powering various electronic devices.

Security is the top priority of Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro. It has comprehensive safety features, including a battery management system that protects against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. This ensures protection for your equipment and the power station itself, giving you peace of mind.

The following is a summary of the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro Portable Power Station's features:

• Powerful portable power station with a 2200W pure sine wave inverter
• Large battery capacity of 2160Wh
• Supports multiple charging methods: solar panels, AC wall outlets, and car DC ports
• Quick charging time of 5.5 hours using 6 SolarSaga 100W
• Versatile charging ports include USB-A, USB-C, Car Port, and AC Output
• Ideal for camping, outdoor activities, emergencies, and off-grid power needs
• Features an enhanced battery management system (BMS) for optimal performance and safety
• Compact and lightweight design for easy portability, weighing only 43lbs (19.5kg)
• Backed by a 3-year warranty and excellent customer support from Jackery

Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro

The Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro is a powerful and reliable portable power generator. With a capacity of 3024Wh, this generator provides enough power to keep your essential devices and appliances running, even in remote areas or during a power outage. Regarding portability, the Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro features a convenient telescoping handle and durable wheels for easy transport and mobility. The compact and sleek design ensures it won't take up too much space in your vehicle or storage area. One of the outstanding features of the Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro is its compatibility with solar panels, making it an excellent choice for sustainable and renewable energy solutions. It is equipped with an MPPT solar charge controller, which allows you to efficiently harness the sun's energy and use it to charge the generator's internal battery.

The Solar Saga 100W Solar Panel equipped with the Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro is designed with versatile charging port compatibility. The conversion rate of this product is as high as 24.3%, ensuring you get the maximum power from the same surface area and your devices charge faster. Beyond that, its ETFE-laminated case is extremely durable, with an IP65 waterproof rating, and is capable of operating in a wide temperature range of -10 to 65°C (14-149°F). That means it can withstand the water splashes and harsh weather conditions that are common in Canada.

About Jackery

Portable solar panels and RV solar kits are transforming the van living experience in Canada, providing an efficient, sustainable, and reliable power solution for off-grid adventures and full-time van life. They offer freedom from grid dependency, enabling travel to remote areas and reducing the need for noisy, fuel-dependent generators. Jackery’s high-efficiency solar panels and solar generators are a game-changer in this regard. With their high conversion rates, lightweight design, easy setup, and compatibility with various can setups, Jackery products offer an optimal solution for RV and van power needs. They allow users to harness the abundant solar energy in Canada to power their appliances, devices, and systems, thereby maximizing their comfort, convenience, and overall enjoyment of their travels.