Portable solar blankets are all about quick and easy charging you can count on. No matter if it’s for temporary or mobile setups, they’re a great space-saving and versatile option to mount onto tents, vehicles, or even ground stands.
Engineered for the adventurers out there, iTechworld Raptor Skin blankets take all this and pair it with a self-cleaning, low-glare surface alongside a hard-wearing construction. They’re built to handle the Aussie conditions, meaning it won’t let you down when you’re on the road. Get the most from your solar blanket setup and find out all the mounting and storage tips you need to power your next adventure below.
General Mounting
To get the most from your solar blanket there’s a few simple mounting practices that can make all the difference. By paying attention to orientation, avoiding shade, and securing the blanket properly, you can enjoy more power for longer.
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Face the equator (true north in Australia) for the best daily yield. Minor errors aren’t the end of the world, but orientation goes a long way.
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Keep shade to a minimum (even shade-tolerant cells perform better in full sun), and trim down any nearby branches if possible.
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Make sure all the edges are secured to stop any unwanted wind damage. Use the reinforcement points on the blanket where provided.
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Make the most of the included fold-out stand to get up and running quicker. If it’s windy, reduce the tilt to lower the wind load or feel free to use extra anchors.
Other Mounting Ideas
Whether you’re parked for the day, topping up on the move, or setting up at basecamp, how you want to mount your setup really is down to you. There’s everything from quick bonnet charging to secure trailer or roof installs, so find the right one and follow these instructions:
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Strap the blanket down across a rack using cam straps; anchor at multiple points to avoid any flapping.
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Clip to awning rails with lightweight clamps and angle using the stand or small props for midday sun.
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If you’re looking for a short-stop top-up, place a small blanket flat across the bonnet or windshield (avoid any engine heat or moving parts).
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For trailer mounting, attach to a raised tailgate or trailer wall for tailgate living. All that’s left to do is to route the cabling into the battery box.
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If there’s no space elsewhere, you can always mount your solar blanket on the ground. Just use the stand or a simple frame and stake it down on soft ground, lowering the tilt if wind is expected.
Understanding Angles & Positioning
The precise angle right can make a big difference in year-round performance. Adjusting for the season, or even shifting position as the sun moves throughout the day helps you capture every last drop of sunlight. Here are our top tips:
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Take the latitude down by around 10–15° in the summer, then in the colder months, increase it by around 10–15°. These should both be from your “average tilt”.
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If you struggle to adjust your panels daily, your best bet is to set an average tilt of your latitude as toughly as possible.
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When you hit the road, go for midday sun if possible and reposition if there’s any shade or if the sun shifts.
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Flatten the blanket and keep exposed surface area to a minimum when the wind picks up.
Cabling, Connections & Best Practices
Good cabling is all about protecting your gear and getting the best possible bang for your buck. It could be using the right gauge or keeping your connections nice and clean. Whatever the best practice, you’ll be putting in the work so that you can enjoy your rig for a as long as possible:
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Always use the supplied cables and connections as these will reduce voltage drop when compared to thinner, longer runs.
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Keep connections clean, dry and tight, and look over Anderson plugs for grit and corrosion before using.
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Understand the blanket’s listed Voc/Vmp/Impp and the regulator’s input limits if you parallel or chain panels. As with any power solution, glance over the product specs before wiring multiple together.
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Route cables away from sharp edges, hinge points and highly-used areas so there’s less chance of abrasion or pinch damage.
Storage & Maintenance
A little care goes a long way when it comes to your solar blanket. Clean, dry storage and some gentle handling mean you’ll be able to use yours for many more trips to come.
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Dry as best you can before packing your blanket away. Even high IP-rated units should be stored dry so there's no trapped moisture or mould.
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Wipe away any dirt, grit or salt with a soft cloth. Try to avoid hard scraping or abrasive brushes because this could damage the Raptor Skin surface.
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Fold only along the factory seams to preserve creases and edges or think about investing in a protective bag.
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Check over the stitching, corner reinforcements and connectors before every trip, then replace or repair damaged fitments as soon as you can.
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Planning to store your blanket long term? Keep it loosely rolled or flat where possible, and always avoid putting any heavy gear on top.
Some Common-Sense Warnings
Safe use protects both you and your equipment. Follow these precautions to avoid damage, preserve warranties, and keep your solar blanket operating as it should:
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Never submerge your blanket and protect any connections from prolonged wet or salty conditions.
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Do not attempt to open or modify the blanket’s cells or integrated plugs.
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Respect the regulator’s voltage/current limits and wiring instructions - they’re there to keep you and your rig as safe as possible. Improper parallel/series wiring can also damage equipment or void your warranty.
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Unsure about a permanent electrical installation? Don’t have a shot in the dark; have it done by a qualified technician that knows what they’re doing.
Maximise Your Solar Blanket Setup
All it takes is a little bit of thought, some seasonal adjustments and basic care for you to get more from your portable solar blanket. Nothing we’ve mentioned here is complicated; just protect it from damage, keep it clean and secure, and it’ll reward you with steady charging wherever the road, track or trail takes you.
