Last updated on February 19th, 2024
Are you planning a backpacking or camping trip and looking for the best power bank to take with you? Or maybe you’re just looking for an extraordinary power bank to keep in your car for emergencies. Either way, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will discuss 8 of the best power banks on the market today. This review covers small, easy-to-handle power banks to large-capacity power banks that can keep your devices charged up all day long. We’ll also provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the perfect power bank for your needs. So, whether you’re planning an epic backpacking trip or need a little extra power for camping, read on for the best options.
What Can a Power Bank Charge?
Once you’ve decided on the right power bank for your needs, it’s essential to know what devices you can charge. Most power banks come with multiple USB ports that allow you to charge various devices, including:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Laptops
- Cameras
- Wearable devices
- GPS units
With so many options on the market, there will be a power bank that meets your needs. Be sure to consider the capacity, solar charging capabilities, and weight when deciding. And don’t forget to check out the reviews to get an idea of how well each power bank performs in real-world conditions.
Related: Best Places to Hike in the World
How Solar-Powered Power Banks Work?
Power banks charged by solar radiation are ideal for those looking to charge their devices while on the go. They absorb sunlight and convert it into electrical energy that can be used to charge your devices. Most solar-powered power banks have multiple USB ports to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
When choosing a solar-powered power bank, it’s vital to consider the capacity, solar panel size, and weight. You’ll also want to make sure that the power bank is compatible with your devices. Also, read the reviews to understand how well each solar-powered power bank performs in real-world conditions.
Can It Charge a Laptop?
Yes, most power banks come with multiple USB ports to charge various devices, including laptops. However, it’s vital to check the specifications of each power bank to make sure that it’s compatible with your laptop.
Apple, for example, recommends using a power bank with at least 29W when charging a MacBook. So, if you’re looking to charge your MacBook with a power bank, be sure to choose one that meets or exceeds this requirement.
You will also need to find the matching charging cable to power your MackBook with a power bank. Apple’s proprietary Lightning cable (USB-C) is not always compatible with all power banks on the market. You may need to purchase an adapter or use a different type of charging cable altogether.
So, be sure to read the reviews to get an idea of how well each power bank performs in real-world conditions.
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Power Bank Buying Guide
The following must be considered when buying a power bank:
- Power: First, you need to consider how much power you need. A small, lightweight power bank will suffice if you’re using it for emergencies. However, you may need a power bank with a larger capacity if you plan to use it to charge multiple devices. The power can range from 2,000mAh to over 30,000mAh and more.
- Size and weight: Second, you need to consider the size and weight of the power bank. While traveling, you’ll want something small and lightweight if you plan to carry it with you. However, if the size is not an issue, you can opt for a larger-capacity power bank.
- Portability: Third, you need to consider portability. Some power banks have built-in solar panels, making them great for charging on the go. Others come with built-in batteries that are suitable for cars or home applications.
- Budget: Finally, what is your budget? Power banks range in price from around $20 to $100 or more.
Best Power Banks for Backpacking and Camping
Here are some best 8 power banks available on the market to meet your needs:
1. Anker PowerCore Portable Charger
The Anker PowerCore Portable Charger is an excellent option for those looking for a small, lightweight power bank for backpacking and camping. It has a 26,800mAh capacity and can charge 2 tablets and 6 phones at the same time. It also comes with 3 USB output ports equipped with Anker’s Voltage Boost and PowerIQ technology.
Pros
- Small and lightweight
- Colossal power capacity of 26,800mAh
- Charge multiple devices simultaneously
- Recharge 2X faster
Cons
- Pricey
2. Riapower Solar Charger
The Riapower Solar Charger is an excellent gadget when looking for a power bank in the backcountry with built-in solar panels. It has a 26,800mAh capacity that can last for up to eight days, charging multiple devices – 8 charges for iPhone 11, 6 charges for Galaxy S10, or 3 charges for iPad mini. The solar panels allow you to charge the power bank on the go, making it great for extended use.
Pros
- 2.5X fast recharging
- Ultra-high capacity battery
- Built-in LED flashlight
- Solar-powered
Cons
- Hassle to carry
3. Q Portable Charger
The Q Portable Charger is excellent for those looking for a power bank with different USB ports while camping. You get USB, USB Type C, and Micro USB ports, so you can charge various devices. This power bank of 10,000mAh capacity can charge your devices 2.5 to 4 times faster than many others on the market.
Pros
- Short circuit protection
- Built-in cable charges the mobile directly
- Slim and compact
- Universal compatibility
Cons
- Drains quickly
4. BioLite Charge 80 PD
The BioLite Charge 80 PD is a perfect choice for charging laptops while camping. It has a 20,000mAh capacity and can charge your devices up to 80% in just 45 minutes. Moreover, the power bank can charge five smartphones at the same time.
Pros
- Battery life indicator button
- Quick charge 3.0 protocol
- Fully charge a 13″ laptop
- FAA carry-on compliant
Cons
- Heavy
5. OtterBox Fast Charge
The OtterBox Fast Charge is an affordable, durable, high-quality power bank for backpacking. It has a 20,000mAh capacity and offers up to 3.6X faster charging so that you can recharge your devices in no time. Moreover, its sleek, quality finish fits into the tightest pockets.
Pros
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Includes a USB-A to USB-C cable
- LED power indicator
- Supports USB power delivery
Cons
- Gets heated quickly
6. Goal Zero Venture 75 Power Bank
One of the high-tech-looking power banks on the market, the Goal Zero Venture 75 looks like it belongs in a spy movie. This powerful charging device can be recharged by [USB-C] 5-20V, up to 3A in about 1.5 hours. A single full charge will give your devices up to 35 hours of extra battery life while camping.
Pros
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Compact design
- 96Wh capacity
- Emergency flashlight
Cons
- Expensive
7. Energizer LCD Display Portable Power Bank
It is a futuristic-looking power bank from Energizer with an LCD display. The Energizer LCD Display Portable Power Bank has a 10,000mAh capacity. It comes with PowerSafe Management technology that protects against short circuits and over-charging of your portable battery and devices. Most importantly, it has an LCD that shows you the exact percentage of power remaining in the power bank, so you never have to guess how much juice is left.
Pros
- LCD display
- Safety features
- Slim and sleek design
- Rapid charging
Cons
- No solar panel option
8. Nitecore NB10000
The Nitecore NB10000 is a perfect companion for small hikes or road trips that don’t require a lot of gear. This power bank can easily fit into your glove box or console and provides up to 10,000mAh of backup battery for your devices. It comes with USB and USB-C dual QC ports. This feature lets you fast charge two gadgets at the same time.
Pros
- Sleek and lightweight
- Maximum compatibility
- Built-in power indicator
- USB-A and USB-C dual outputs
Cons
- Not ideal for laptops
Conclusion
Many power banks are available on the market to meet different needs. When purchasing, you must consider the capacity, solar charging features, and weight of a power bank. You can also check online reviews to learn more about the options available and how well they work.
The eight products that we have reviewed in this article are some of the best power banks on the market. They all come with different features, so be sure to check them out and see which one is the best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which power bank is better, 10000mAh or 20000mAh?
The answer to this question depends on what you need it for. Generally speaking, a 20000mAh power bank will last longer and can charge more than one device at once, while a 10000mAh power bank is better suited for charging smaller devices or providing emergency battery life when needed. If you need your mobile phone charged often or if you want long-term use out of your power bank, then the 20000mAh option would be best.
However, if you’re looking for something lightweight and compact that can offer quick charges here and there, then go with the 10000mAh option. No matter which power bank you choose, make sure it has good-quality components and a reliable warranty. That way, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your purchase is backed up.
How many hours does a 20000mAh power bank last?
The exact amount of time that a 20000mAh power bank can last depends on the device or devices being charged and its power requirements. Generally speaking, a full charge of a 20000mAh power bank should be able to provide around 8-10 charges for an average smartphone. For example, if you’re charging an iPhone 11 with a 10W charger, it should take around 2 hours to achieve a full charge using the 20000mAh power bank. This means that you could potentially get up to 20 hours of use out of the power bank before needing to recharge it again. Ultimately though, this will depend on how much your device is drawing from the battery – the more demanding your device is, the sooner you’ll need to recharge your power bank.
When it comes to power banks, it’s always important to factor in the capacity of the battery itself. A 20000mAh power bank should be able to provide around 10 charges for an average smartphone at best. If you’re looking for more longevity out of your device, then a higher-capacity power bank would be recommended. Similarly, if you’re only charging one low-power device like a fitness tracker or Bluetooth speaker, then a lower-capacity power bank should do the job just fine.
In conclusion, how long a 20000mAh power bank lasts is variable and dependent on both your device and its usage requirements. Generally speaking, though, it should last 8-10 full charges before needing to be recharged again. For maximum efficiency, it’s always important to factor in the capacity of your power bank and whether or not it meets the needs of your device.
Will a power bank explode if overcharged?
The short answer to this question is no. A power bank will not explode if overcharged. However, the battery in the power bank may degrade over time if it is overcharged and may not be able to store as much energy as it did when it was new. This means that you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging your power bank, especially if you plan to use it for backpacking or camping trips where access to electricity might be limited.
To ensure that your power bank lasts as long as possible and operates at its maximum capacity, make sure to unplug it once it has reached full charge and avoid leaving it plugged in overnight or unattended. Doing so will help prolong the life of your power bank and keep you safe from any potential electrical hazards.
In general, power banks are built to be safe and reliable, so as long as you take the time to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and maintenance, your power bank should be fine. However, if you ever notice any signs of damage or overheating while using your power bank, it is best to stop using it immediately and contact the manufacturer for further guidance.
Are solar-powered power banks good for backpacking and camping?
Absolutely! Portable solar-powered power banks are a great way to bring energy with you when you’re out in the wild, far away from traditional sources of electricity. These devices can be used to charge phones, cameras, small appliances, and other electronics while you’re on the go. Not only do they help keep your gadgets from dying in the middle of nowhere, but they also reduce your reliance on expensive batteries and generator fuel for remote sites.
Plus, since most solar panels will work even during cloudy days or at night (thanks to their built-in battery), you won’t have to worry about running out of juice. So go ahead — get yourself a solar-powered power bank and join the sustainable camping movement today.
Happy camping! 😀
Can power banks charge laptops?
No, most power banks cannot charge laptops directly. Power banks are designed to store power and provide a portable charging option for devices such as smartphones, tablets, wireless headphones, etc. Smaller ones can usually provide around 5V of output power, whereas bigger ones can usually go up to 12V maximum. However, laptop batteries typically require 19V or more of input voltage which is beyond the capacity of most power banks.
In addition to this, laptops also draw significantly higher currents than most power banks are capable of providing. Therefore it is not recommended to use them in order to charge your laptop while backpacking or camping, as they will not be able to do so reliably. Instead, you should rely on other sources, such as solar chargers, generators, or wall sockets, for charging your laptop.
However, if you are looking to charge multiple devices at once while backpacking or camping, then power banks are a great option, as they can easily provide enough power for most of your small electronic gadgets, such as smartphones and tablets.
In addition to this, some high-end power banks even come with multiple output ports so that you can charge more than one device at the same time. So, while power banks cannot directly charge laptops while backpacking or camping, they are still a great choice for providing portable charging options for other small electronic gadgets.
If you want to charge a laptop with a power bank, then choose one of the premium power banks above.
Liya Kravchenkin is an experienced portrait photographer. She has worked with clients worldwide and has even traveled to more than 50 countries. Liya loves photography because it allows her to capture a moment that can never be repeated. Liya also enjoys traveling, learning about new cultures, and seeing the world’s unique natural wonders. Her favorite travel memories are from swimming with dolphins in the Galapagos and eating cheesecake in New York City.
