Originally Posted by
staehpj1
... solar panels with much capacity are expensive, heavy, and large. Also they require clear weather and direct sun to work well.
Not sure about which panels you're referring to. I got a portable one that folds out to four panels, rated at 14W/2.5A. That's plenty for me. It's under 1.4 lbs. and was under $50 shipped. Dimensions (folded) are 6.69 × 9.25 × 1.57 inches. Not "large" by any means, even when unfolded (32.28 × 9.06 × 0.12 inches).
Company is only 20 miles away. I say that because they are local and I got it quick. Plus they have great customer service.
I've tested with and w/o direct sunlight and determined the electronics I have do not need direct sunlight to charge or operate directly w/o charging. Also got a USB power meter/monitor to verify this.
Since this folds out to four panels, it's not something I'd attach to a backpack (I don't wear one) or strap to the top of a rear rack.