A few years ago I submitted an Instructable for a portable solar tracker that was somewhat portable, but it was not easily transported or easily stowed in my RV. Many RVers like to "Boondock", a term used to describe camping without shore power, but there are not very many truly portable solar systems. Most of these systems are either expensive or not at all portable. A large solar panel propped up against a picnic table, with a heavy battery pack and a large Inverter is not what I would call portable or efficient and it is certainly not suitable for boondocking.

This build is ideal for use with an RV because it was designed specifically for flexible solar panels, which can easily be stowed beneath the mattress of an RV. The other advantage is that it can easily be assembled and disassembled. It is also expandable; you can adjust for any size panel between 50-watt and 100-watt using turn knobs.

You can build this system in a couple of hours if you have everything on hand. I have provided direct links in the parts list using Amazon Affiliate links but you can shop around and look for better pricing.

This project will involve modifying components by drilling, tapping and screwing parts together.

This build can easily be modified to suit your needs; you may find a better way to run wires or remove the tripod and solar mount for storing.

You might find that it is easier to mount the solar panel with adhesive backed Velcro strips, which would actually be a better choice.

Remember, this is a portable system and anything you can do to make it easier to assemble and disassemble will make it that much more suitable for an RV.

Skill Level

Someone with basic hand-tool skills can accomplish this project. This project does require tapping of the extrusion but that is easily done with the technique I describe.