Best Slim Power Banks
The best slim power banks are slim enough that you don’t have to plan ahead when taking them anywhere. They’ll fit into your lifestyle well even though they might not offer the best capacity or the most features. We’re talking convenience over function but that’s great if you want to keep things light. Look out for enough power to keep your phone recharged a few times but don’t count on recharging your laptop so easily with these and there probably won’t be too many port options either.
Reasons to avoid
Few people make a statement with a power bank but the Babaka 10,000mAh Power Bank isn’t exactly exciting. It makes up for it with key features like a thin design, both Micro-USB and USB-C inputs and 10,000mAh of juice. It’s very much a ‘what you see is what you get’ device that’s ideal if you don’t want to steal focus.
How Does It Work
Solar-powered devices have gained ground during the last few years as modern technology introduced an eco-friendly, renewable, and off-the-grid power source. It is almost like having an unlimited power supply with a solar power bank using just the suns energy. But how exactly does a solar power bank charge your devices?
One of the core components of a solar power bank is the solar panels. As we have shown you, different models of power banks can have a single solar panel. In contrast, others have four foldable solar panels. These solar panels absorb solar radiation that is converted into electricity.
The panel has photovoltaic cells that are responsible for converting sunlight into electricity. As soon as sunlight hits the panels, and the radiation comes in contact with the photovoltaic cells, electrons move around the cells. A flow of current will be created.
The current created is then stored in a rechargeable battery, usually a lithium-ion one. The power stored can now be used to power your devices. But you can also charge solar power banks using the wall outlet. This is very convenient and much faster than solar charging that is designed only for emergency charging.
Solar power banks are very easy to use with its plug and play design. You just directly connect your USB cable to the power bank, and your device will automatically start charging. Modern solar power banks also come complete with full protection technology, so your device is safe and secure while charging.
How Do I Keep My Phone Charged While Camping
A phone is an electronic device that must have at least a percentage of power before you can access it. The functions of a phone are plenty beyond imagination and can never be underestimated or ignored. As time goes on, the functions increase from time to time. Can you imagine using that small device as a tool that leads the way for you through your journey? Do not be surprised. Some people travel from their place to another country for the first time without knowing their way, but they feel comfortable. Why? They have their smartphone with them and can easily navigate through it to their destination with the help of the GPS.
Now that you can not leave your phone at home because you need it to direct you through your journey, it is important to make sure you have enough power. That is, it must be charged. At the same time, you can not go with your electricity wires with you or can you? Impossible. And a phone can not be used for more than a day while its GPS is turned on, then you need another means to charge your phone while camping. Technology has made it easier to recharge your phone anywhere you go, even with the absence of electricity.
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What’s The Difference Between W And Wh
This is quite an important distinction and should be borne in mind when looking at the specifications of these camping power packs.
W or Watts is the power or oomph which a camping battery can supply to a gadget or appliance. For instance, if your hair dryer runs at 1800W AC, it means you need a power supply capable of supplying at least 1800W of alternating current . Typically its also worth having a bit of headroom above this value too we would therefore recommend a 2000W battery pack for the above case.
On the other hand Wh is shorthand for Watt Hours. This is a completely different unit and refers to how much storage or capacity the camping power pack has i.e. how long will the power pack last from a fully charged state to empty whilst running an appliance. For instance if you have a power pack of 30Wh capacity this means that you could run or charge a 30 watt gadget for 1 hour before the power pack is out of juice.
The larger power packs can have high capacity for example the EcoFlow Delta 1300 has a whopping 1260Wh and can supply a maximum power of 1800W to an appliance. This means that if you were running an 1800W hair dryer continuously using this power pack, it would last ~1260/1800 = 0.7 hours or 42 minutes before it was empty. Not that long, but then again you would normally only use a hairdryer or kettle in short 2-3 minute bursts.
Best Overall: Qisa Solar Power Bank
Weight: 1.21 pounds | Dimensions: 8.35 x 4.25 x 1.18 inches | Output ports: Two USB, one Type-C, one wireless output charging for your phone | Accessories: Micro USB charging cable, lanyard, carabiner
With an enormous 30,000 mAh battery, the QiSa Solar Bank is one of the largest while still offering a reasonable price tag. The heavy-duty device is ideal for staying plugged in on long camping trips. Plus, the power banks ability to charge multiple devices and the bright, 200-lumen flashlight can come in handy during emergency situations.
Hassle-free wireless charging is available to Qi-compatible electronics, and additional USB ports allow up to four devices to connect at a time. The IP66-rated, rainproof solar panel can withstand moderate weather however, it should not be completely submerged.
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Best Waterproof: Outxe 25000mah Wireless Solar Power Bank
Weight: 1.28 pounds | Dimensions: 6.7 x 3.4 x 1.28 inches | Output ports: USB QC3.0 output, USB output 2.4A, wireless charging pad | Accessories: Micro USB charging cable, type-C charging cable, two carabiners
Designed with durable, military-grade construction, this OUTXE solar power bank is the perfect companion for hikers, kayakers, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Not only is the device waterproof with an IP67 rating , its also dustproof and shockproof.
Equipped with an impressive 25,000 mAh battery, the OUTXE has the ability to charge three devices at the same time. Another convenient feature is that charging can be done wirelessly, and type C and micro USB cords are included. A built-in nylon strap allows you to attach the bank to the outside of your gear pack or boat, so the solar panel can charge on the go, or use pass-though charging when your devices are plugged into the wall.
Pny Slim 20000 Portable Power Bank
This ones available today on the high street!
Image credit: PNY
If you dont fancy buying online, or you need something you can pick up right now, this power bank is available on the high street. Theres also an Argos pick further down if Currys isnt your thing.
Its 20000mAh capacity means its a great portable charger for festivals. It recharges over microUSB and has two standard USB ports for recharging your devices
Its currently £34.99 in Currys, and if you need it today, you can enter your postcode to check stock in nearby stores and collect in minutes.
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What About Long Car Journeys
If you need to spend several days on the road but don’t want to risk getting cut off from friends or loved ones, the Projecta Power Cup fits neatly into most vehicle cup holders and is ideal for powering electrical equipment including iPads, mobile phones etc. Its FM Transmitter wirelessly broadcasts your favourite music through your FM radio, while the L.E.D indicator shows what is being powered via the USB Ports.
Top Pick: Anker Astro E1 6700
Most of the campers and backpackers we know are weekend warriors, and the Astro earned our Top Pick with them in mind.
At 6700 mAh capacity and only one output port, the Astro is a rather minimalist battery pack when it comes down to it.
Yet that is what makes it great for our purposes.
At 4.3 oz, It is one of the smallest and lightest battery packs for its capacity. It holds enough juice to charge a smartphone around 1.5-2 times a perfect amount for 2-4 days of limited phone use.
Simply put, for most weekend warriors, the Astro is an affordable battery pack that gives you everything you need to keep your devices charged and nothing more.
Its max input charging speed of 1A leaves something to be desired though. This isnt a huge issue unless you need to charge it constantly on your trip, such as when thru-hiking. Otherwise you can just recharge it once you get home.
While the Astro is our Top Pick, it isnt perfect for every camper and backpacker. We spend the rest of this article discussing good alternatives, especially power packs with greater capacity.
If youre looking for the opposite a battery pack with less capacity check out the Anker PowerCore+ Mini 3350. Its a 3 oz lipstick sized pack that can give a smartphone about a half to a full charge.
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Suaoki Portable Power Station 150wh
The SUAOKI Portable Power Station is another good opportunity for you to buy during this time. In fact, this solar generator is portable, lightweight and small.
You can easily fit it in your car or even in a backpack. It comes in at 7,3 x 4.3 x 4.7 inches and weight just under 3 pounds. In the same way it has a hide carrying handles.
This is in fact a solar generator, so theres no need to fear about gasoline fumes. It can be charged in many ways. You can also recharge this when you are in your cars.
It works just fine as a smaller item. It can produce 100 watts of power with starting power performance will be around 150 watts. It features with 4 DC ports with several USB ports that you can charge and power many devices.
With this SUAOKI 150Wh Portable Power Station, you can work with your laptop in park or anywhere you like. When you need power throughout camping or emergency, it can be your backup power supply.
It is a USB power bank and an ideal clean power source. Further mostly students are like this portable generator. It is enough to power a student house few appliances if there any short power outage happen.Features:
How To Choose Portable Power For Camping
Now that you have a better idea of what type of portable power device is best for you, heres what you need to know to further narrow your options.
- Number of Users âWill only you be using the power device? Or do you need one capable of powering devices from several users?
- Age of Users âThose with children should select portable power devices that are safe for youngsters to use.
- Power Type âHow is the device powered? Popular options include solar power, wind power, gasoline power, and rechargeable electric .
- Battery Storage âDoes the portable power source simply recharge devices or does it store a charge itself? The inclusion of an in-built battery is valuable, especially for solar chargers.
- Capacity âHow many charges does the device provide? Power output is usually measured in mAh , but most manufacturers also list this in more usable terms.
- Size/Weight âHow big and heavy is the portable power gadget? Small size and lightweight are of utmost importance for backpacking. Remember that larger devices usually have a higher power output/capacity.
- Durability âCamping takes a serious toll on outdoor gear. Ensure your power source is prepared for hot sun, snow, and rain as well as bumps and bruises.
- Features âHow many charging ports does the device have? Are these standard power outlets, USB ports, or something else? Solo campers might be fine with one portable power outlet while family campers should look for a device with multiple charging ports.
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Anker Powercore Essential 20000 Pd
If you are looking for a quick way to recharge your iPhone during your adventures, you can consider buying the Anker PowerCore Essential 20000 PD. This one is an 18W charger that comes with USB Type-C Power Delivery, meant to charge your iPhone in less time.
And that’s not all. Even the secondary port has an output of 18W. Plus, it’s has a built-in trickle charging mode made to fuel low-powered devices like headphones and fitness trackers.
The only thing which you need to keep in mind is that this power bank works the best with a USB-C Power Delivery charger. If you use a standard charger, it might not charge at its optimum speed.
The PowerCore Essential 20000 PD bundles a USB-C to C cable, a travel pouch, and a welcome guide. Plus, it also includes an 18-month warranty. That said, the Power Delivery charger is not included.
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Hidver: Solar Power Bank On A Budget
Key features:
- Compact and handy
- Comes with a compass
If you are looking for a portable power bank with a lot of capacity, which can charge your devices using solar panels and do not want to spend a lot of cash at the same time. The Hidver power bank is the right choice for you.
It comes with a 20,000 mAh battery which can charge your phone multiple times. You also get a solar charger that comes handy in off-grid locations.
The power bank is waterproof and dustproof and can easily handle heavy rain and splashes. The charger uses a high-density lithium polymer battery which in spite of being 25,000 mAh is very compact and portable.
PROs What we liked
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Do You Actually Need A Quick Charge Set
Clearly a Quick Charge set-up is the more expensive route. This begs the question:
Which campers and backpackers would benefit most from a Quick Charge set-up?
Thru-hikers.
Thru-hikers need to recharge their battery pack when in town. A Quick Charge set-up could shorten each stop in town by hours.
Weekend warriors on the other hand wont benefit as much from Quick Charge. A single charge of a battery pack will last most of their trips. They most likely wont be stopping in town during the trip either.
Of course, Quick Charge output can charge your devices much quicker assuming theyre Quick Charge compatible. That would benefit both thru-hikers and weekend warriors alike.
Ports Type Of Device To Charge
What type of devices you frequently take on your camping trips. If you only go with your smartphone, tablets or kindle e-book reader then power banks with USB output will be sufficient.
But if you also like to bring your laptop, drones, GPS and other similar devices then you should look for chargers with Support for AC as well as DC power supply, like Omni 20+.
When you are on the heavier side of the uses and like to throw in some additional appliances like a mini cooler or CPAP machines, you should get the Anker Powerhouse.
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Goal Zero Sherpa 100ac
- Capacity : 95Wh
- Weight : 2lbs / 900g
The Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC made a splash when it was introduced in 2018 and for good reason. This portable, light power bank packs a powerful punch with 95Wh, allowing your whole family or group of camping friends to keep their gadgets charged for an entire camping trip without worrying about running out of power.
Its especially nice that this power bank comes bundled with different types of charging cords, including USB-C and USB-to-Lightning for Apple products.
If you bring your phone, portable speaker and camera and video gear camping with you, you wont regret dropping some extra money for the Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC.
What we like
- Plenty of power. This bank features a lot of juice at 25,600mAh.
- Multiple power outlets from USB-C to a single 100W AC plug.
- Small size. Its packed with power, but still only weighs two pounds.
What we don’t like
- High price. Power and portability dont come cheap.
What Makes The Best Portable Power Pack
Firstly, think about how much power youre likely to need and how long you might be away from a power source. This will dictate what size power bank you need in terms of battery capacity, which is usually measured in milliamp hours .
To help you out, note that it typically takes 2,500 to 3,500mAh to charge a modern smartphone . Charging a GPS unit or digital camera is likely to consume a similar amount of power, while charging a head torch, smartwatch or GoPro will consume much less. High-powered devices like tablets and laptops are the biggest drain on battery capacity.
Put simply, the larger the rated capacity , the more juice the power bank can store though the trade-off is increased size and weight. So if youre only carrying a smartphone on a day walk and just want a back-up power source, look for a pocket-sized battery charger. On the other hand, if youre planning to spend multiple days in the wilderness carrying a number of different devices , then youre going to need one of the bigger power banks around .
To power multiple devices effectively youll also need a power bank that supports simultaneous charging, i.e. one that has at least two or more outlet ports. Many of the latest models also offer features such as quick charging through high-speed USB or USB-C connectivity, as well as in-built technologies to prevent over-charging and optimise charging efficiency.
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