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The Best Portable Power for Camping in 2024

Just because you’re camping doesn’t mean you can’t keep all your devices fully charged.

A portable power device is key to charging smartphones, GPS devices, cameras, and laptops at the campground or on a road trip. It’s even possible to power a CPAP while camping, run a refrigerator or electric cooler, or even use a heater with the right portable power station. Today, we’re going to look at the best portable power for camping!

Best Portable Power

Our Top Picks

Best Small Power
Anker PowerCore III 10K

Best Medium Power (CPAP, cameras, laptops, TV)
Goal Zero Yeti 200x Portable Power Station

Best Large Power
Maxoak Bluetti EB150 1500Wh


Best for Handheld Electronics

Anker PowerCore III 10K

Anker PowerCore III 10K Wireless Portable Charger with Qi-Certified 10W Wireless Charging and 18W USB-C Quick Charge for iPhone 13, 12, Mini, Pro, iPad, AirPods, and More

The Anker PowerCore III 10k is a compact yet powerful portable power pack. It’s lightweight and versatile, suitable for backpacking, camping, hiking, and road trips, as well as for emergency kits. It supports Qi-certified wireless charging and 18W USB-C quick charge. Despite its small size (6 ounces, 3.6 x 2.3 x 0.9 inch), it has a high capacity. The power pack is sleek and features 5 bright LED lights to indicate the remaining charge.


Best Solar Charger for Handheld Electronics

Nekteck 28W Solar Charger

Nekteck 28W Solar Charger, Portable Solar Panel with 2 USB Port, IPX4 Waterproof Hiking Camping Gear Sunpowered Adapter Compatible with iPhone 12/11/11pro/Xs, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Camera

The Nekteck 28 is a budget-friendly and lightweight solar charger designed for small electronics. It offers 28 watts of solar output, weighs just 1.4 lbs, and is ideal for backpacking. It features two fast-charging USB ports and smart technology for efficient charging. The charger is durable with a canvas outer layer for protection against bumps and water. The only downside is that it doesn’t have an internal battery, but this can be remedied by using a portable power bank.


Best for Mid-Size Electronics (TV, Laptops, CPAP)

Goal Zero Yeti 200x

Goal Zero Yeti 200X Portable Power Station, 187-Watt-Hours, Solar-Powered Generator (Solar Panel Not Included), USB Ports and AC Outlets, Portable Generator for Camping and Emergency Power

The Goal Zero Yeti 200x is our top choice for portable power stations for camping. Despite its 5-pound weight, it offers 187 watt-hours of battery capacity, suitable for charging smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It’s not meant for powering large appliances continuously. Goal Zero offers other models like the Yeti Lithium 1000X for more power.


Mid-size Power (500Wh)

Jackery Explorer 500

Jackery Portable Power Station

The Jackery Explorer 500 is a durable and lightweight portable power station designed for camping. It features a reliable lithium-ion battery with 518 watt-hours capacity, multiple outlet ports, and can be recharged via AC, DC, or solar panels. Despite weighing just over 13 pounds, it offers 500 watts rated power and 1,000 watts surge power, making it suitable for various devices, including CPAP machines.


Best Large Power Output

Maxoak Bluetti EB150

Maxoak Bluetti EB150 Portable Power Station

The Maxoak Bluetti EB150 is a top choice for high-capacity power needs, perfect for glamping or extended camping trips. It has 1500 watt-hours capacity, two 1000 Watt outlets, and can be recharged via wall outlet, car outlet, or solar panel. While recharging can be slow with solar panels, it offers multiple USB ports, two AC outlets, and an LED screen for battery life monitoring. Ideal for long-term camping or off-grid living, especially when paired with a solar panel setup.


Portable Power Buyers Guide

Here are a few of the most important things to keep in mind when reviewing your options for the best portable power supply for camping.

Before You Buy

Here are the most important factors to consider before buying portable power for camping.

  • Type of Device – What do you intend to power? Your smartphone, laptop, television, a refrigerator?
  • Power Output – How much power do you need? Most manufacturers measure this in mAh (milliamp hours). About 10,000 mAh translates to 3 complete smartphone charges.
  • Type of Camping – Are you backpacking, car camping, or boondocking? Backpacking requires a small, lightweight portable power device outlet while boondocking has few size/weight limits.
  • Frequency of Camping – How often do you camp? If you camp on a regular basis, it`s probably worth investing in a more powerful device (even if it costs more upfront).
  • Camping Location – Solar power for camping is hot right now. Yet it`s not right for every location. You`re better off with battery power in many locations.

Your answers to these questions dictate, at least partially, what type of portable power bank for camping is right for you.

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, here’s what you need to know to further narrow your options.

  • Number of Users – Will only you be using the power device? Or do you need one capable of powering devices from several users?
  • Age of Users – Those with children should select portable power devices that are safe for youngsters to use.
  • Power Type – How is the device powered? Popular options include solar power, wind power, gasoline power, and rechargeable electric (at home or with your car`s 12V cigarette lighter).
  • Battery Storage – Does 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 – How many charges does the device provide? Power output is usually measured in mAh (milliamp hours), but most manufacturers also list this in more usable terms.
  • Size/Weight – How 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 – Camping 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 – How 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.
  • Emergency Backup – Not all portable power devices can jumpstart a car. If that`s something you want, select one with this emergency capability.

Consider all of these factors ahead of time to narrow down the options to the type of portable power for camping that matches your personal needs and preferences.

Portable solar charger in the snow.

Power Up While Camping!

Choosing the right portable power source for camping can greatly enhance your outdoor experience. Whether you prioritize lightweight options for backpacking, high-capacity units for extended stays, or eco-friendly solar-powered solutions, there are plenty of excellent choices available to keep your devices charged and your adventures powered up.

For more gear recommendations, check out our camping gear archive!

Dale

Tuesday 27th of April 2021

I need a power pack to run my Lazy Boy Recliner, and recliner couch. Charging it from my house a/c plug outlet... something that will last for several days or hopefully a week or longer... they’re used in the evening a few times, nothing constantly...

Angela

Saturday 30th of November 2019

I've experienced car chargers damaging my phone. Do portable charging devices pose the same risk?

Robb

Thursday 4th of July 2019

Hi,

Great article, I'm looking for a power source and perhaps you can shed some light. I would like something around 30lbs give or take that I can bring on short canoe camping trips (unload car, load canoe, canoe for a spell, unload canoe camp). My requirements is that it power a speaker or 4 as well as recharge phones and some mild lighting, if it has a little power left over, that would be great. I am open to pre charge or solar options. Would you happen to have recommendations for such a gadget?

Thanks so much,

Robb

Victoria

Sunday 28th of April 2019

Will the yeti 150 power a drinks fridge for around 4-5hours with one charge? Or do you have any other suggestions. 230V 85W

Jake Walnut

Monday 29th of April 2019

What model of drinks fridge? Sounds like the Yeti 400 is probably a better option for you.

Alicia C Brady

Wednesday 1st of August 2018

Can the goal zero (or any ) inflate a mattress?

Dylan Glass

Friday 15th of February 2019

Yes