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Let's be honest, even when we go camping to escape it all, most of us still rely on our phones. For maps, checking the weather, taking photos, or just staying in touch, having a charged phone is pretty much essential. And if you have got kids, keeping tablets charged can be a lifesaver on a rainy afternoon.
While the bigger portable power stations are brilliant for running laptops and lights, they are overkill if you just need to keep your phone topped up. For that job, you need a good power bank. They are smaller, lighter, and much cheaper. I have tested loads to find the ones that are reliable, offer great capacity, and are tough enough for campsite life.
My Top Recommendations in Brief
- 1 Best Overall: Anker PowerCore 10000. Incredibly compact, reliable, and offers enough juice for a weekend away.
- 2 Best High-Capacity: Anker PowerCore 26800. A beast that charges multiple devices and keeps going for days.
- 3 Best Rugged Option: BLAVOR Rugged Solar Power Bank. Waterproof, dustproof, and has a built-in torch.
1. Anker PowerCore 10000
Best Overall Power Bank
Anker are the kings of charging gear, and this little power bank is a classic for a reason. It is incredibly small and light for its 10,000mAh capacity, easily fitting into a pocket or a small compartment in your rucksack.
That capacity is enough juice to charge my phone about twice, which is perfect for a weekend trip. It is simple, reliable, charges quickly, and uses Anker's excellent PowerIQ technology to deliver the fastest possible charge to whatever device you plug in. For most people, this is the only power bank you will ever need.
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight.
- Reliable Anker quality.
- Fast charging speeds.
Cons
- Only one standard USB output port.
- Micro-USB input (on older models).
2. Anker PowerCore 26800
Best High-Capacity Bank
If you are going off-grid for a longer trip, or you need to keep multiple phones and maybe a tablet charged, you need more power. The PowerCore 26800 is an absolute beast. Its huge capacity can charge a phone six or seven times, or fully charge a tablet twice over.
It has three USB output ports, so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously. It is noticeably bigger and heavier than the 10,000mAh model, but the peace of mind knowing you have got days worth of power is fantastic. It is my go-to for family camping trips.
Pros
- Massive capacity (26,800mAh).
- Charges 3 devices at once.
- Ideal for families/long trips.
Cons
- Heavy (nearly 500g).
- Takes a long time to recharge itself.
3. INIU 10000mAh Power Bank
Best Budget Option
You do not need to spend a lot to get a decent power bank. INIU have become a really popular budget brand, and this 10,000mAh model is excellent value. It is slim, reasonably lightweight, and has both USB-A and USB-C ports, making it versatile.
It charges devices quickly and reliably. While the long-term durability might not quite match Anker, for the price it is absolutely brilliant. It is a fantastic choice if you just need a reliable backup charger without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Excellent value for money.
- Slim and portable.
- USB-C input/output.
Cons
- Build quality feels less premium.
- Brand not as established as Anker.
4. BLAVOR Rugged Solar Power Bank
Best Rugged/Waterproof Bank
Campsites can be tough environments for electronics. If you are prone to dropping things or often camp in wet weather, a rugged power bank is a smart investment. This model from BLAVOR is designed to take a beating.
It is water-resistant, dustproof, and has a tough casing to survive drops. It also includes a small solar panel for emergency top-ups (don't rely on this for a full charge!) and a built-in LED torch. It is heavier than a standard bank, but the extra protection is great for peace of mind.
Pros
- Water, dust, and shock resistant.
- Built-in torch and compass.
- Solar panel for emergency trickle charge.
Cons
- Bulky and heavy.
- Solar charging is very slow.
5.Solar Power Bank 20000
Best with Integrated Solar Panel
While the tiny solar panels on rugged banks are only for emergencies, some power banks come with larger, foldable panels built in. This Anker model is a great example. It has a decent 20,000mAh battery, but also unfolds to reveal multiple solar panels.
These panels can genuinely recharge the bank over a couple of sunny days. It is not as fast as plugging into the mains, but for long off-grid trips where you need to stay topped up, it is a very clever all-in-one solution. It is a bit bulky when folded, but the self-sufficiency it offers is fantastic.
Pros
- Fold-out solar panels work effectively.
- High capacity battery (20,000mAh).
- Reliable brand.
Cons
- Bulky and heavy.
- Solar charging still needs good sun.
Buyer's Guide: Choosing a Power Bank
- Capacity (mAh): This is the fuel tank size. 10,000mAh = 2 phone charges (Weekend). 20,000mAh = 4-5 charges (Long trip). 26,800mAh = Family power.
- Portability: If you are hiking, weight matters. A 10,000mAh bank weighs ~180g. A 26,800mAh bank weighs ~500g (half a bag of sugar!).
- Output Speed: Look for 18W or 20W output (often called Power Delivery or PD) if you want your phone to charge fast. Standard 5W or 10W charging can feel very slow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size (mAh) power bank do I need for camping?
It depends on how long you're going for. As a rough guide, a 10,000mAh power bank will charge a typical smartphone about 2 times. A 20,000mAh bank will give you 4-5 charges, which is usually enough for a long weekend. If you need to charge multiple devices or a tablet, aim for 20,000mAh or higher.
Can I take a power bank on a plane?
Yes, but there are strict rules. Power banks must be carried in your hand luggage, not checked baggage. Most airlines limit the capacity to 100Wh, which is roughly equivalent to 27,000mAh. Always check with your specific airline before flying.
