Imagine this: you’re miles from anywhere, the sun is setting, and your phone battery is blinking red. You need to check your map, send a quick update, or maybe just capture that incredible mountain view. Suddenly, your lifeline to the outside world is gone. Sound familiar to any backpacker? We’ve all been there, right?
Choosing the perfect portable charger for your backpacking adventures can feel like a puzzle. There are so many types, sizes, and power levels to consider. Do you need something super lightweight? Or a powerhouse that can charge your phone multiple times? It’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up with a charger that’s too heavy, too weak, or just not right for your trip.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to make your life easier. We’ll break down everything you need to know about portable chargers for backpacking. By the end, you’ll understand what to look for and be able to pick the best one to keep your devices powered up, so you can focus on enjoying the trail and making unforgettable memories, not searching for an outlet.
Our Top 5 Portable Chargers For Backpacking Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank 10 | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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Hiluckey Solar Charger 25000mAh | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger(5V/2A Max) | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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VEEKTOMX Small Portable Charger | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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myCharge Portable Charger Waterproof USB C Power Bank Adventure | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Portable Chargers For Backpacking Detailed Reviews
1. BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank 10
Rating: 9.1/10
The BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank 10,000mAh is a rugged and versatile portable charger designed for outdoor adventures and everyday use. It packs a powerful 10,000mAh battery, offers fast 20W USB-C charging, and even includes wireless charging capabilities.
What We Like:
- Brand Trust: BLAVOR has over 10 years of experience, building trust with millions of users worldwide. They use high-quality materials for reliable and safe products.
- Fast & Flexible Charging: The 20W USB-C output charges your phone quickly. It can charge three devices at once and works with most smartphones like iPhones and Samsung.
- Premium Battery & Compact Size: It uses a safer Lithium-cobalt battery with more charge cycles. It’s also one of the smallest and lightest 10,000mAh chargers available.
- Durable & Comfortable Design: Made with flame-retardant ABS and PC materials, it’s protected by waterproof silicone. The soft-touch coating feels good in your hand.
- Outdoor Ready: This power bank is IPX5 waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof. It also features dual bright flashlights and a compass carabiner for added safety outdoors.
What Could Be Improved:
- Solar Charging Speed: While it has a solar panel, it’s best for topping up in emergencies, not as a primary charging source due to slower solar speeds.
- Bulkier for Some Pockets: Despite being small for its capacity, it might still feel a bit bulky for very slim pockets.
This BLAVOR power bank is an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable, durable, and feature-rich portable charger, especially those who spend time outdoors.
2. Hiluckey Solar Charger 25000mAh
Rating: 8.7/10
The Hiluckey Solar Charger 25000mAh is a powerful and versatile portable power bank designed for outdoor adventures and everyday use. With its four upgraded solar panels, it offers a more efficient way to charge your devices on the go. This power bank can keep your smartphone or tablet powered up for extended periods, making it a reliable companion for any trip.
What We Like:
- The 2025 upgraded solar panels are up to 10 times more efficient than older models, providing better solar charging.
- It offers super-fast charging with QC 3.0 technology, getting your phone to 65% in just 30 minutes.
- You can charge three devices at once thanks to its USB-C and two USB-A ports.
- The 25000mAh capacity is huge, letting you charge your phone many times or a tablet a few times.
- It recharges quickly via USB-C, taking only 6 hours with a PD charger.
- The built-in flashlight is very bright and lasts a long time, perfect for emergencies.
- It’s built tough and shock-resistant, ready for tough outdoor conditions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The solar charging speed might still be slower than wall charging, especially in less sunny conditions.
- A PD fast charger is needed for the fastest recharging, and it’s not included.
- While durable, the solar panels might be prone to scratches if not handled carefully.
This Hiluckey solar charger is a fantastic option for anyone who needs reliable power outdoors. Its advanced features and robust design make it a valuable tool for travelers and adventurers alike.
3. BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger(5V/2A Max)
Rating: 9.3/10
Never get caught with a dead phone again! The BLAVOR 10W Portable Solar Charger is your new best friend for outdoor adventures. This small, foldable solar panel packs a punch, letting you harness the sun’s energy to power up your devices. It’s built tough and ready for anything your camping, hiking, or backpacking trips throw at it.
What We Like:
- It converts sunlight into power really well, up to 24% efficient!
- You can charge two devices at once using its USB-C and USB-A ports.
- It’s super light, weighing only 0.81lb, and folds up small, making it easy to carry on your backpack.
- It’s made from strong, wear-resistant oxford cloth and has a special coating to protect the panels.
- The package includes everything you need: the charger, cables, and carabiners.
- It’s IPX4 waterproof, so a little rain won’t stop it.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s durable, the effectiveness of charging can depend on how much direct sunlight it gets.
- The output is 10W, which might charge larger devices like laptops slower than a wall charger.
This BLAVOR solar charger is a solid choice for anyone who loves the outdoors and needs reliable power on the go. Stay connected and powered up, no matter where your adventures take you.
4. VEEKTOMX Small Portable Charger
Rating: 8.5/10
Say goodbye to low battery anxiety with the VEEKTOMX Small Portable Charger! This mini power bank is your ultimate travel companion, packing a powerful 10,000mAh punch into a super compact and lightweight design. It easily fits into your pocket or bag, making it perfect for anyone on the go, whether you’re traveling, working, or just out and about.
What We Like:
- Super compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry anywhere.
- Fast charging (22.5W PD) gets your devices powered up quickly.
- Charges many different phones and devices, like iPhones, Samsung, and Google Pixels.
- The USB-C port works for both charging the power bank and charging your devices.
- Has safety features to protect your devices from overheating and other problems.
- The LED display shows you how much battery is left.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s fast, it might not be the absolute fastest charger on the market for all devices.
This VEEKTOMX power bank is a fantastic choice for anyone needing reliable power on the move. It strikes a great balance between portability, power, and safety.
5. myCharge Portable Charger Waterproof USB C Power Bank Adventure
Rating: 8.8/10
The myCharge Portable Charger Waterproof USB C Power Bank Adventure is your go-to power solution for all your outdoor escapades. This rugged power bank boasts a 6700 mAh internal battery, perfect for giving your phone, tablet, or Bluetooth speaker a much-needed boost when you’re miles from an outlet. Its tough, waterproof, and drop-resistant design means it can handle whatever the elements throw at it, making it ideal for camping, hiking, or even a day at the beach.
What We Like:
- It has a USB-C port and another USB-A port, so you can charge two devices at once.
- The waterproof and rubberized finish makes it super tough against drops, dirt, and water.
- A built-in carabiner lets you easily clip it to your backpack, keeping power within easy reach.
- It’s compact and lightweight, fitting easily into any bag.
- It’s great for keeping all your camping gear powered up.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 6700 mAh capacity might not be enough for multiple full phone charges if you’re on a very long trip.
This power bank is a reliable companion for anyone who loves the outdoors. It keeps your essential gadgets charged and ready for action, no matter where your adventures take you.
Power Up Your Adventure: The Best Portable Chargers for Backpacking
When you’re out on the trail, your phone, GPS, or headlamp is your lifeline. A dead battery can be more than an inconvenience; it can be dangerous. That’s where portable chargers, also called power banks, come in. They keep your gear running so you can stay connected and safe. This guide will help you pick the perfect portable charger for your backpacking trips.
What to Look for in a Backpacking Portable Charger
Key Features to Consider
- Capacity (mAh): This is how much power the charger can hold. More mAh means more charges. For a weekend trip, 10,000mAh is usually good. For longer trips, consider 20,000mAh or more.
- Ports: Most chargers have USB-A ports for older devices. Look for USB-C ports too, as they are faster and can charge newer phones and devices. Some also have multiple ports so you can charge more than one thing at once.
- Durability: Backpacking means bumps and maybe rain. Look for chargers that are tough and can handle the elements.
- Weight and Size: You’ll be carrying this in your pack, so lighter and smaller is better. However, don’t sacrifice too much power for weight.
- Fast Charging: Some chargers can fill up your devices much faster than others. This is great when you only have a short time to charge.
- Solar Charging: Some chargers have built-in solar panels. These can help keep your charger topped up with sunlight, but they are usually slow.
Important Materials
Most portable chargers use a combination of plastic and metal.
- Plastic Casing: This keeps the weight down and protects the battery inside. Look for sturdy ABS plastic.
- Lithium-Ion or Lithium-Polymer Batteries: These are the most common types of batteries used. They offer good power density for their size.
Quality Matters: What Makes a Good Charger?
Factors That Improve Quality
- Reputable Brands: Stick with well-known brands. They usually have better quality control and stand behind their products.
- High-Quality Battery Cells: Good internal components mean the charger will last longer and perform reliably.
- Certified Safety Features: Look for chargers with overcharge protection, short-circuit protection, and temperature control. These keep your devices safe.
- Good Reviews: See what other backpackers are saying about the charger. Real-world experiences are valuable.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Cheap, Unbranded Chargers: These often use lower-quality batteries and components. They might fail quickly or not hold a charge well.
- Lack of Safety Certifications: This is a red flag. Your devices could be damaged.
- Overstated mAh Claims: Some manufacturers inflate the battery capacity numbers.
Putting it to the Test: User Experience and Use Cases
User Experience
A good portable charger should be easy to use. You just plug in your device, and it starts charging. Indicator lights show how much power is left in the charger. It should feel solid and not flimsy. Charging your phone from 0% to 80% might take an hour or two, depending on the charger and your phone.
Use Cases for Backpacking
- Keeping Your Phone Charged: For navigation, taking photos, and emergencies.
- Powering a GPS Device: Essential for finding your way.
- Recharging Headlamps or Lanterns: Don’t get stuck in the dark.
- Charging Smartwatches or Fitness Trackers: To monitor your activity.
- Running Small Electronics: Like e-readers or portable speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How much mAh do I really need for backpacking?
A1: For a weekend trip, 10,000mAh is usually enough to charge a smartphone 2-3 times. For longer trips or if you have multiple devices, aim for 20,000mAh or more.
Q2: Can I charge my phone and my GPS at the same time?
A2: Yes, if the portable charger has multiple output ports. Check the specifications to see how many devices it can charge simultaneously.
Q3: Are solar-powered chargers good for backpacking?
A3: Solar panels on portable chargers can help trickle-charge the power bank, but they are usually very slow. They are best used as a backup, not your primary charging method.
Q4: How long does it take to charge a portable charger?
A4: It depends on the charger’s capacity and the wall adapter you use. A 10,000mAh charger might take 3-5 hours to fully charge from a standard wall outlet.
Q5: Is it safe to leave my portable charger in the sun?
A5: It’s generally not recommended. Extreme heat can damage the battery and reduce its lifespan. Keep it in your pack or a shaded area.
Q6: What does “fast charging” mean for portable chargers?
A6: Fast charging means the charger can deliver power to your device at a higher wattage, allowing it to charge much quicker than a standard charger. Look for terms like “Quick Charge” or “Power Delivery (PD).”
Q7: How do I know if a portable charger is durable enough?
A7: Look for chargers with rugged, shock-absorbent casing. Some are even water-resistant or waterproof. Reading reviews from other outdoor users can also give you an idea of durability.
Q8: Can I use a portable charger to charge my laptop?
A8: Some high-capacity portable chargers with USB-C Power Delivery (PD) can charge certain laptops. You’ll need to check the charger’s output wattage and ensure it matches your laptop’s requirements.
Q9: How many times can a portable charger recharge my phone?
A9: This depends on the mAh of the charger and the battery size of your phone. A 10,000mAh charger can typically charge a 3,000mAh phone battery about 2-3 times.
Q10: Are there any safety concerns with portable chargers?
A10: Reputable chargers have built-in safety features to prevent overheating, overcharging, and short circuits. Always buy from trusted brands and avoid damaged chargers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.