Best Portable Charger for Camping – 2025 Reviews
When you’re miles from the nearest outlet, a dead phone battery isn’t just an inconvenience—it can be a safety hazard. Whether you’re using GPS to navigate back to camp, capturing that perfect sunset photo, or simply want to have enough juice for an emergency call, having a reliable portable charger is non-negotiable for modern camping.
I’ve spent years testing power banks and solar generators in real-world conditions, from weekend backpacking trips to extended off-grid adventures. After evaluating dozens of models, I’ve compiled this list of the best portable chargers that actually deliver when you need them most in the great outdoors.
Best Portable Charger for Camping – 2025 Reviews
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 – High-Capacity Solar Power Station
This powerhouse delivers 1070Wh of reliable energy with 1500W AC output, making it perfect for running everything from phones to mini-fridges at your campsite. The included solar panel and one-hour fast charging mean you’ll never run out of power, even on extended trips.
What really impressed me was how it balances massive capacity with relative portability—weighing under 24 pounds with a foldable handle, it’s surprisingly manageable for car camping or base camp setups.
SABANI Portable Charger – High-Capacity with Built-in Cables
With an impressive 35,000mAh capacity and 22.5W fast charging, this power bank can keep multiple devices running for days. The four built-in cables mean you’ll never hunt for charging cords again, making it incredibly convenient for group camping trips.
I was surprised by how compact it feels despite the massive capacity—it slips easily into a backpack pocket and weighs just over half a pound.
CFIAI Portable Charger – Slim and Fast Charging
This ultra-slim power bank packs a 15,000mAh punch while weighing just 9.9 ounces, making it ideal for backpackers who count every ounce. The 22.5W fast charging and built-in cables provide quick power boosts without the bulk of traditional chargers.
What stood out during testing was how easily it fit in my pocket—I barely noticed it was there until I needed emergency power for navigation.
VTOMAN FlashSpeed 300 – Durable Power Station
Featuring a LiFePO4 battery with 3000+ cycles, this power station is built to last for years of camping adventures. The 300W output and 230Wh capacity can handle everything from phones to small appliances, while the 7-pound weight keeps it portable for car camping.
I was impressed by how quickly it charged via the 100W USB-C port—perfect for topping up between outdoor activities.
IAPOS Portable Charger – Massive Capacity Power Bank
Boasting an enormous 60,000mAh capacity, this power bank can keep your devices running for weeks of camping. The 22.5W fast charging and included 3-in-1 cable make it versatile for charging multiple device types without extra accessories.
Despite its massive capacity, I found it relatively compact and easy to pack—though you’ll definitely notice the weight in your backpack.
OHOVIV Portable Charger – High-Capacity with Cables
This 50,000mAh power bank features four built-in cables and 22.5W fast charging, making it a workhorse for group camping trips. The digital display and multiple ports allow you to manage power efficiently across all your devices.
During testing, it consistently delivered quick charges and survived being packed in crowded gear bags without damage.
Jackery Explorer 300 – Compact Power Station
This 293Wh power station provides 300W of clean power in a 7.1-pound package, perfect for weekend campers who need more than USB charging. The pure sine wave AC outlets safely power sensitive electronics, and solar compatibility extends your off-grid stay.
I found it remarkably easy to use—just plug and play—with enough power for most camping essentials without overwhelming bulk.
OHOVIV Portable Charger – Fast Charging Power Bank
Another 50,000mAh contender from OHOVIV, this model focuses on fast charging with 22.5W output and a clear LED display. The compact design belies its substantial capacity, making it a reliable choice for extended camping trips.
During testing, it provided consistent fast charging and the digital display accurately tracked power levels throughout use.
BLAVOR Solar Charger – Solar-Powered with Flashlights
This 10,000mAh solar charger includes built-in solar panels, dual flashlights, and a compass—making it a true multi-tool for outdoor adventures. The IPX5 waterproof rating and rugged construction ensure it can handle rough camping conditions.
I appreciated the peace of mind knowing I could recharge via sunlight if needed, though the solar charging works best as a backup rather than primary method.
MARBERO Portable Power Station – Compact and Versatile
This 88Wh power station packs multiple outputs into a compact 3.2-pound package, including AC outlets for small appliances. The built-in flashlight with SOS mode adds safety functionality, while the fast charging capability keeps devices powered quickly.
I found it perfect for short camping trips where space is limited but you need more than USB power.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
We put 10 portable chargers and power stations through rigorous real-world camping scenarios to see how they perform when it matters most. Our scoring system weights 70% on actual performance factors like battery life, charging speed, and durability, with 30% based on innovation and competitive features that set products apart.
For instance, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 earned its exceptional 9.8 rating through massive capacity and reliable solar charging, while the CFIAI Portable Charger scored a very good 8.8 as a budget-friendly option that excels in portability.
We evaluated thousands of user reviews and conducted hands-on testing in various camping environments. The score differences reflect real trade-offs—premium options deliver unparalleled power for extended trips, while budget picks focus on essential functionality at accessible price points.
Unlike reviews based solely on specs, we prioritize how these chargers actually perform when you’re miles from the nearest outlet, ensuring our recommendations are practical and trustworthy for your outdoor adventures.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose a Portable Charger for Camping
1. Capacity: How Much Power Do You Really Need?
When choosing a portable charger for camping, capacity is measured in milliamp-hours (mAh) for power banks or watt-hours (Wh) for power stations. For weekend trips, a 10,000-20,000mAh power bank should suffice for phones and small devices. For longer excursions or powering larger devices like laptops, look for 30,000mAh+ or power stations with 100Wh+ capacity.
Remember that real-world efficiency is about 60-80% of rated capacity due to conversion losses, so always buy more capacity than you think you’ll need.
2. Charging Speed: Don't Wait All Day
Fast charging technology like PD (Power Delivery) and QC (Quick Charge) can significantly reduce charging times. Look for at least 18W output for decent speed, with 22.5W or higher ideal for quickly topping up devices between activities. Faster input charging also means less time tethered to a wall outlet between trips.
3. Portability: Weight and Size Matters
Every ounce counts when you’re carrying gear. Compact power banks are great for backpacking, while larger power stations are better for car camping. Consider the weight and dimensions relative to your capacity needs—sometimes a slightly heavier unit with more capacity is worth it if you’re base camping.
4. Durability: Built for the Outdoors
Camping gear takes abuse. Look for water-resistant ratings (IPX4 or higher), shockproof construction, and rugged materials. Some models include protective cases or rubberized coatings for extra durability. Features like dust resistance and temperature tolerance also matter in outdoor environments.
5. Solar Charging: Unlimited Power Potential
For extended trips, solar-compatible chargers can be a game-changer. Built-in solar panels are convenient but often slow; dedicated solar panels provide faster charging. Consider your access to sunlight and charging time requirements—solar works best as a supplement rather than primary charging method for most users.
6. Additional Features: Beyond Basic Charging
Many camping chargers include useful extras like built-in flashlights, SOS modes, compasses, or multiple output ports. These can be valuable additions that reduce the gear you need to carry. However, prioritize core charging performance over bells and whistles unless those features align with your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I take a portable charger on a plane?
Yes, but there are restrictions. Power banks with capacities under 100Wh (approximately 27,000mAh) are generally allowed in carry-on luggage. Always check with your airline for specific regulations, as some may have lower limits or require approval for larger capacities. Never pack power banks in checked baggage due to fire risk.
2. How long does it take to fully charge a power bank?
Charging time varies based on capacity and input power. A 10,000mAh power bank might take 4-6 hours with a standard charger, while faster charging models can reduce this to 2-3 hours. Larger power stations may take 8+ hours to charge fully. Using a higher-wattage wall charger can significantly reduce charging times for compatible models.
3. What's the difference between a power bank and a power station?
Power banks are typically smaller, designed for phones and small electronics, with USB outputs. Power stations are larger, can power AC devices like laptops and mini-fridges, and often have multiple output types including AC outlets. Power stations are better for car camping or base camps, while power banks are ideal for backpacking where weight and size are critical.
4. Do solar chargers work on cloudy days?
Yes, but much less efficiently. Solar charging depends on direct sunlight intensity. On cloudy days, charging speed can be reduced by 50-90%. For reliable solar charging, plan for extended charging times or have a backup charging method. Optimal solar charging requires positioning the panel correctly and having several hours of direct sunlight.
5. How many times can a power bank charge my phone?
This depends on the power bank’s capacity and your phone’s battery size. Roughly, divide the power bank’s mAh by your phone’s mAh (e.g., a 10,000mAh bank can charge a 3,000mAh phone about 3 times). Real-world efficiency is about 60-80% due to conversion losses, so actual charges will be slightly fewer. Higher-quality power banks typically have better efficiency ratings.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing across various camping scenarios, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 stands out as the best overall portable charger for camping, offering exceptional capacity and fast solar charging for serious off-grid power needs. For most campers, the SABANI Portable Charger provides outstanding value with its high capacity and built-in cables, while the CFIAI Portable Charger is perfect for those prioritizing ultralight portability. No matter your camping style—from backpacking to car camping—there’s a reliable power solution on this list to keep your devices charged and your adventures powered safely through any outdoor excursion.