I'm currently in Spain where I found a 550w+ solar panel for only 75€. I'm planning to drive back to Finland where I'm going to completely overhaul the electrics in my VW T3 camper, including adding solar power. The same panel would cost me between 500€ and 850€ back home, so grabbing it here makes sense. However, my van will be packed to the brim for the trip back, although there is a space for the panel. I'll need to place other items on top of it during transit, but I believe the panel is sturdy enough if I handle it with care. I'm really wondering if it's worth the 75€ investment and what the best practices might be for securing it during the drive. Any tips?
3 Answers
If you manage to stack it carefully and keep it laid flat, it might just hold up. Just make sure nothing falls onto it or puts uneven pressure on it. Those panels are designed to be on roofs, so as long as you’re gentle with it, you should be good! And who knows, you could end up with a great deal when you get back home!
Be careful with how you pack the panel! You definitely want to avoid putting heavy pressure on it because excess flexing could lead to micro-cracks, which means it won't perform well and can age quicker. A good idea is to build a frame around it using some chipboard or something similar to distribute the weight and avoid stress on the glass. That way, the panel will have some protection from whatever you place on top of it, and it should stay intact during your journey.
Definitely check the snow load rating on the panel; it gives you a good indication of its durability. A good rule of thumb is to take a quarter of that rating when transporting it in a vehicle. I’d also suggest strapping it securely to the roof if you have the option, just to keep it from moving around.