DIY

I left this one to the professionals and just purchased a couple solar panels and a couple pairs of batteries. I did not do it all at once and did a battery and solar panel at a time. There are some key terms you have to understand.  If you plan on using with a solar panel and want to supply power while charging then you will need to get a device that has "passthrough" charging.

I have a total of two solar panels and four portable batteries.  My batteries are older and do not have Bluetooth and do not provide power while charging but since I have two of each it makes it easier to charge and use.

Two Small Batteries (Links)

• the first is a max of 260 wh

• another with a max 170 wh

Two Large Batteries (Links)

• the first is a max of 520 wh

• another with a max of 640 wh

Two Solar Panels (Links)

• Both 120 watt solar panels. Both are rated IP6.

Two Portable Fridges (Links)

• A 26 qt fridge

  • I use this fridge for Meat and condiments for the grill

• A 47 qt fridge

  • I use this fridge for drinks.

Two Bluetooth Temp Sensors (Links)

• I use one sensor in each fridge to monitor the temperature

I have a bunch of usb led bulbs and led sring lights

• LED Bulbs (Link)

• LED Sting Lights (Link)

I also have a portable shower (Link)

I pieces together my setup as a need basis. I have two smaller batteries. One small battery is for inside and the other is outside lighting. Two Large Batteries, one for each fridges. I keep one in a car or tent and the other I keep near the grill but covered if it rains (they are not water proof), I have a tarp or canopy that I put over the batteries when outside. I am hoping to upgrade my setup with two small tents for the outside batteries and outside fridge. The string lights are waterproof. The led bults are for inside the tents or cabin.

I am hoping to expand two more sets of solar panels. Eventually I will get one large battery and a couple 200+ watt portable solar panels. This all cost money so I did this by need and steps. With the setup I can stay off grid with a couple portable fridges and lights for 3 days before batteries completely die. This is why I am going to add two more solar panels. Then I can be off grid much longer.

I use my two smaller batteries to power lights even though they can power a fridge each. The two larger batteries I have power a portable fridge each. I have a Bluetooth temp sensor inside each fridge to monitor the temperatures. 

Pictures of my setup coming Spring 2026