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The best power banks 2024: top portable chargers from Anker, Otterbox, and more

Keep your gear charged when you're on the go

• Best for everything
• Best for power users
• Best MagSafe
• Best bargain
• Best Apple Watch power bank
• Best sustainable
• Best ultra-slim
• How to choose
• How we test

The list in brief 1. Best power bank for everything 2. Best power bank for power users 3. Best mini power bank 4. Best MagSafe power bank 5. Best cheap power bank 6. Best Apple Watch power bank 7. Best power bank combo 8. Best sustainable power bank 9. Best ultra-slim power bank How to choose How we test

The best power bank is more than just a battery, it's peace of mind. There are so many power banks to choose from, so we've tested the best of the bunch and you can be confident that our recommendations are the best portable power options you'll find anywhere. 

Almost every power banks on this list can charge the latest iPhone 15 at the faster USB-C speeds, though wireless charging and pocket power is more about convenience than speed, so we also have wireless power bank options and a great travel card that fits easily in your pocket. 

For every power bank, we don't just look at the battery capacity, we check how much battery you're getting for the extra weight you have to carry. You can look for the power-to-weight ratio on every battery pack below, and the higher the ratio the more power you get for your trouble. 

We've tested every power bank in this list, and many more, in order to bring you the best options. Below, you'll find everything from the very small to the very large; from the wired to the wireless; from innovative bricks to forms you wouldn't expect. Read on for our favorites.

The quick list

Shall we cut to the chase? Here's our quick guide to the best power banks – and you can read more in-depth details on each battery pack by following the links. 

The best power bank for everything

The Anker 733 Power Bank is the one we never leave home without. It charges our phone and all of our accessories fast, and it's even powerful enough to charge a Chromebook or MacBook Air. 

Read more below

The best power bank for power users

The Anker Prime 250W power bank is serious overkill for most, but if you're a power geek who would love to know everything about the devices you're charging, it'll blow you away. It can also charge a laptop, phone, and more multiple times over. 

The best mini power bank

The Nano doesn't have enough juice to give you a full charge, but it makes up for that power with a pocketable size and super-convenient swing-out USB-C plug.  

The best MagSafe power bank  

The Baseus stands out through its magnets – which were strong enough to easily hold an iPhone 15 Pro Max in landscape mode in our testing – while its kickstand makes it a great desktop alternative. 

The best for cheap power bank

The Airpow may be the cheapest on this list, but it has plenty features and enough power to charge the biggest smartphone battery more than once. With a generous port selection too, it's a steal at around $20. 

The best Apple Watch power bank

Own both an iPhone and Apple Watch? The Otterbox 2-in-1 has a magnetic dock for your wearable, and also acts as a mini desk clock while the watch is charging. Very cute and convenient. 

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The best power bank combo

If you carry a water bottle everywhere, and you also need a spare battery, why not carry both in one device? The Tylt Bottle has two USB ports and also charges wirelessly. Oh, and the bottle is fully insulated to keep your drinks cold. 

The best sustainable power bank

This gorgeous power bank from Gomi is expensive, but you're saving the planet. The batteries are repurposed from e-bikes, and the plastic is re-used non-recyclable plastic bags. Worth it for a brighter future. 

The best ultra-slim power bank

If you need the most portable power bank available, the TravelCard Plus is slim enough to fit in a large wallet, and it packs just enough power to finish the night in style. It even has USB-C and Lightning plugs attached for convenience.  

The best power bank 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best power banks in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

1. Anker 733 Power Bank (GaNPrime PowerCore 65W)

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You travel a lot and need power: We never take flight without the Anker 733 in our carry on luggage. It replaces multiple wall chargers and gives us a large battery on the go.  ✅ You carry a small laptop and a phone: The Anker 733 is powerful enough to charge a laptop and a phone together. Or you can charge your phone, headphones, and smartwatch all at once.

❌ You want a more portable option: Because of its combo nature, the Anker 733 is a bit bulky and cumbersome, but if you use it both ways, it's worth the trade-off in size to have such a useful device.   ❌ You only want to charge a phone: If you don't need to charge a laptop occasionally, or you only carry a phone with no accessories, the Anker 733 is more than you need. 

The Anker 733 is a revelation, and though it isn't the most powerful or feature packed power bank on this list, it is the best overall power bank to carry if you charge multiple devices, no matter what those devices might be. It can charge an iPhone 15 at full 20W speed, and it can even power a Chromebook or small laptop like a Macbook Air whether it's plugged into a wall or not. 

Speaking of that wall plug, it's the most useful feature ever on a power bank. Some power banks come with a built in USB-C cord, but this Anker comes with a two-prong power outlet plug. That makes it a wall charger as well as a power bank, and the utility can't be understated. 

You might think that adding a 65W wall charger to a power bank would add a lot of bulk. Well, you're right, the Anker 733 is big, and it's power-to-weight ratio isn't as high as the heavy hitters on this list. On the other hand, you can charge the battery and three devices in a wall, then simply remove the Anker 733 and keep charging those devices with the built-in battery.

The Anker 733 has a 10,000 mAh battery inside, which is just shy of enough power to charge an iPhone 15 to 100% twice. It can charge a big Galaxy S23 Ultra to 100% once, then lift the battery to around 30% again. 

There are two USB-C ports on the Anker 733, and both are capable of 65W charging when the power bank is plugged in to a wall outlet, or 30W when the battery is running the show. There's also a USB-A port for legacy devices. You can charge the Anker 733 by plugging it into the wall or you can plug in one of the USB-C ports to charge the battery. 

• ^ Back to the top

2. Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank (250W)

✅ You want the absolute best power bank: It has an app to monitor charging details, enough power to drive a MacBook or two, and fast recharging using both USB-C ports. Truly an unmatched power bank.  ✅ You need power for days and days: You could leave with your iPhone 15 on a Monday and use only this battery until you return on Friday. It has enough juice for days of charging, not hours. 

❌ You don't need all those extras: The Anker Prime power bank is pricey, and if you don't care about monitoring charge Wattage or days of battery life, find another option. ❌ You want a compact battery: The Anker Prime power bank has a very high power-to-weight ratio (PWR), but it's still the heaviest battery on this list. It's more than three times the weight of our bargain pick. 

The Anker Prime series of Power Banks, including the Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank (250W) and the Anker Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank (200W), are for people who truly love to geek out on power banks. If you came looking for the absolute best power bank you can buy, this is the best we've tried. 

First, let's start with the raw power. The big Anker Prime can power a MacBook Pro or any big laptop: it's USB-C ports are capable of 140W of power individually, and the entire battery pack can crank out 250W divided between the two USB-C and one USB-A port. 

You can also charge the Anker Prime using both USB-C ports at the same time, for a combined recharging rate up to 170W. That means you can completely refill this whopping 27K mAh battery in under 40 minutes. I thankfully had an Anker 737 GaN Prime charger that was up to the task, and it's fun to see the percentage climb. 

Think this is an amazing power bank? We're just getting started. The Anker Prime power bank has a built-in display, and it's no cheap LCD, it's a sharp OLED that gives you detailed information about the power going out or coming into the power bank. If that's not enough, there's also an Anker app you can download that gives you even more information about the battery on your smartphone.

That app is essential because there's a Find My feature built into the battery. It doesn't work like an AirTag over UWB, it's only Bluetooth, but it's useful if you misplace your battery in your office (or you have multiple batteries, like I do). 

In terms of charging, this massive power bank can charge an iPhone 15 more than five times. It can charge a big Galaxy S23 Ultra's 5,000mAh battery three-and-a-half times. Best of all, it charges at the fastest speed available on most of your favorite phones (excluding Oppo/OnePlus's unusual SUPERVOOC battery). 

Is the Anker Prime worth the high price? That's hard to say, since the larger battery has suffered from some availability issues, though the smaller version packs most of the same features, including the same maximum 140W charging speed in each USB-C port. If you want the best and you love to know about the power your devices are drawing, the Anker Prime Power Bank is the one to buy. 

3. Anker Nano Power Bank (22.5W)

✅ You just got a new iPhone and want the perfect accessory: What better way to celebrate having a USB-C port than buying a new power bank that uses it well. ✅ You want a power bank that fits in a small pocket: The Anker Nano is the smallest power bank on our list, but it packs a big wallop for its small size, and that fold-down USB-C plug makes it easier to carry. 

❌ You need to charge back up to 100%: The Anker Nano carries a respectable 5,000 mAh of battery life, but the power lost in charging means it can't get an iPhone 15 or Galaxy S23 back to full power in a single charge.  ❌ You want to charge old stuff: We're not bothered by the lack of USB-A ports on this small charger, but if your watch or headphones requires it, every other charger on this list has on (including the water bottle charger). 

Everybody on our gift list who got a new iPhone is going to get an Anker Nano Power Bank (22.5W) this year. This cute little charger is perfectly sized to sit beneath your favorite smartphone, plugged into the USB-C port with a little plug that opens out or hides away for a sleek look. 

The Anker Nano is only 5,000mAh, but that doesn't mean it can fully charge a 5,000mAh phone battery like you'll find in the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Power banks are about 60-70% efficient, depending on the phone's technology, so this power bank is good for charging an iPhone 15 to nearly full, but that big Ultra will only get about 65% charge. 

That's just fine, because this power bank is the perfect pocket companion to keep you going through a busy day. If you need more power, you'll have to carry a bag to hold a big battery, but the Anker Nano gives you enough power for busy digital living, without added bulk.

In fact, this is the most efficient battery on our list, in terms of power-to-weight ratios. At only 100g, the Anker Nano is the smallest, but it still packs in plenty of power for that weight. You could buy six Nano power banks and have more power for less weight than buying the big Anker Prime. 

The Anker Nano used to be available in an Apple Lightning version, but those days are thankfully behind us. No matter what phone you are using, especially if you're enjoying the new iPhone 15, this is the power bank you should keep on you. 

The best MagSafe power bank

4. baseus magnetic foldable power bank 20w 10000mah.

✅ You want a powerful magnetic charger: The Baseus Magnetic Foldable Power Bank is a high-capacity battery built onto a very strong magnet. It holds onto an iPhone tightly, even in landscape mode.  ✅ You want a portable StandBy dock: If you have an iPhone 12 or newer running iOS 17, you can use the Baseus Magnetic Foldable as a dock for your iPhone in StandBy mode, giving you a cool desk clock with notifications or a digital photo frame. 

❌ You don't have a magnetic phone: You don't need an iPhone to enjoy the magnetic charging, but you'll need a case that lines up your phone with Apple's MagSafe wireless configuration, or else your phone won't charge properly.  ❌ You need to charge quickly: The Baseus Magnetic Foldable Power Bank is a strong magnet and a big battery, but it charges very slowly, whether wired or wireless. If you don't mind your iPhone wearing a backpack, that's not a problem. 

There are plenty of wireless power bank options on the market, but the Baseus Magnetic Foldable Power Bank impressed me with its incredibly strong magnet. I have the official Apple MagSafe battery pack, and it's magnetic attraction is much weaker than this Baseus power bank. While the Apple battery fell off my phone occasionally, the Baseus Magnetic power bank held tight with less worry. 

That means I could twist my phone sideways into landscape mode and use the Baseus power bank as a portable stand for Apple's new StandBy mode, which is one of my favorite features on iOS 17, and certainly the one I use the most often. 

The Baseus Magnetic power bank can't charge very quickly; the company says it can only charge an iPhone at 7.5W, which is half the wattage a MagSafe iPhone is capable of handling. That was not problem, because this is a power bank that can stick to your phone for a while, so speed won't be of the essence. 

For the price and performance, the slower charging speed is a fine trade off. The Baseus Magnetic Foldable power bank had the second highest power-to-weight ratio on our list, and Baseus chargers are potent and affordable, a good mix.

If you have more than just your smartphone to charge, the Baseus Magnetic power bank has a USB-C port as well, and it can charge up to 20W, which is faster than the magnetic charging, if you really need a speed boost. 

With 10,000 mAh inside, it can charge an iPhone 15 to 100% just short of twice. A Galaxy S23 Ultra will get back to 100% charge once with an extra 35% or so on top of that.

The best cheap power bank

5. baseus airpow power bank 20w 10000mah.

✅ You need more power for less money: The Baseus Airpow power bank starts at $20 in the US and is on sale often, including Black Friday, so it's a real steal. ✅ You need more than one USB port: Most batteries with this many USB ports cost much more, so having two USB-C and one USB-A port will help you charge everything you carry. 

❌ You're trying to keep it simple : The Baseus Airpow doesn't have any built in wires or wireless charging, so you'll need to carry extras when it's time to power up.   ❌ You want to charge fast: While the 20W charging is respectable and can keep up with the new iPhone 15 USB-C port, most Android phones can charge faster than that, so a faster battery pack would help. 

If you haven't heard of Baseus, the company makes a healthy lineup of affordable, well-designed battery packs that don't feel nearly as cheap as their prices would indicate. The most affordable of the bunch, the so-called Airpow Power Bank, starts at $20 in the US but is available on sale often, including a 25% Black Friday discount. 

With three USB ports, including a USB-C port capable of 20W charging and a USB-A port for legacy devices, this battery is surprisingly feature-packed for such an inexpensive power bank. 

The Airpow is not a small power bank, but Baseus makes efficient gear that doesn't take up too much space. It's power-to-weight ratio is on par with the best battery packs from Anker and others. At 245g (more than half a pound), it's bulky, and you'll need to carry extra wires, but it's sleek and nice looking enough to keep in a hand bag. 

With 10,000mAh of power inside, the Baseus Airpow can charge an iPhone 15 once to 100% then once again to nearly full. It can charge a Galaxy S23 Ultra to full once, then add another quarter of a charge.

It's not the fastest battery, but that's expected for this price range. While a flagship phone like the Galaxy S23 Ultra can accept a charging speed up to 45W, the Baseus Airpow can only hit 20W maximum. That's enough for the iPhone 15, though the iPhone 15 Pro has an unpublished charging speed in excess of 20W. 

If you need more, Baseus has plenty of options available in a range of capacity sizes with a variety of features. The options aren't quite as fast or polished as the best power banks from Anker, but the prices are better, and Baseus doesn't add more bulk for less bucks. 

6. Otterbox 2-in-1 Power Bank with Apple Watch Charger

✅ You worry more about your Apple Watch battery: Big iPhones have a big battery, but your watch might not last the day. You don't need a big phone battery when this cute 2-in-1 charger makes a great option instead. ✅ You want your watch to be a desk clock: The Apple Watch has a charging made that makes it a small clock, and this battery turns your watch into a timekeeper that won't get in the way while you're typing, while also keeping your battery full. 

❌ You have a watch that isn't from Apple: The Otterbox 2-in-1 Power Bank only attaches magnetically to the Apple Watch. Other smartwatches, like the Pixel Watch, won't work with this one, not at all.   ❌ You need power for your phone: The 3,000mAh battery inside is plenty to keep your Apple Watch going, but that isn't enough power to get you even halfway charged on an iPhone 15, and even less on bigger phones. 

The Otterbox 2-in-1 Power Bank with Apple Watch is a unique solution to a common problem. Your phone lasts longer than ever before, but wearable batteries haven't quite caught up to the all-day promise. With this cute little power bank, you don't need to bring the special Apple Watch charging cable or a larger battery. This little doodad does the trick. 

The front of the battery is a magnet, and it can hold the Apple Watch standing up. The Apple Watch offers a standby screen with a clock when it's charging, making this power bank effectively a small desk clock, which can be a useful tool if you need to keep time but hate wearing a watch while you type. 

Unfortunately, that magnet isn't quite strong enough for the fanciest Apple Watch bands I own. I have a gorgeous titanium Apple Watch band sent from Nomad , and it was too heavy to hang onto the Otterbox Power Bank's magnet, even though its titanium is incredibly lightweight compared to other metal bands. That's not a big surprise, there are a few chargers this larger band won't fit.

Frankly, the power-to-weight ratio for this little power bank isn't very impressive, it's heavy for the slim 3,000mAh power that it offers. Instead of efficiency, you get to leave your extra-long, super-annoying Apple Watch cable at home and instead just pop your watch onto this cute little thing. It's a worthwhile trade, at least if Watch power is your biggest concern. 

There isn't quite enough power in the Otterbox 2-in-1 power bank to recharge a phone fully, but you're welcome to try. Besides the Apple Watch magnet, it also has a USB-C port that can charge up to 15W, so you can feed some headphones or get a few more hours of screen time in a pinch.

7. Tylt Bottle 2

✅ You were already planning on carrying both: A lot of people carry a water bottle every day, and often bring a power bank along for extra charging. Why not carry both in one device? ✅ You work or study from a library or cafe: The Tylt Bottle 2 is really the perfect device for students in a library or working from a cafe. Rest your phone on the wireless puck and let it charge while you work, without fussy wires and outlets. 

❌ You need a lot of power: Thankfully, the battery on the Tylt Bottle 2 isn't so big it adds too much weight, but that also means it isn't powerful enough for multiple charges.  ❌ You need fast power: This is a very slow charger, whether wired or wireless, so it's better for casual charging while you sip your water and read a book. 

There are plenty of combination power bank and some other device, but the Tylt Bottle 2 actually makes sense because we're usually carrying an insulated water bottle anyway, so we might as well screw a battery onto the bottom. With a 5,700mAh capacity, the Tylt Bottle 2 is just enough to get us through a very busy day, or keep the phone powered while we play games at the cafe. 

The bottle is actually a nice, insulated affair, and it kept ice in cold water for 12 hours, which is all that we need. It has a good, strong strap to carry the bottle, though we would have liked a lid that was easier for sipping.

You can buy the Tylt Bottle with just a power bank attached, but our review sample from AT&T had the full wireless charging treatment. It's easy to set up a phone to charge while studying, working out, or working away from home: all places we take a water bottle and need a full phone battery. 

Tylt could have just added a wireless charging feature and called it a day, but the Tylt Bottle 2 has a few surprises on board. First of all, in addition to wireless charging, you still get both a USB-C and USB-A port for charging just about anything you have.

Tylt also wisely left enough of a gap between the battery and the bottle that you can coil a small USB-C cord (included) into that space. That way, even if you're not charging wirelessly, you're not adding a lot of extra bulk to your bag. It's a smart setup. 

Admittedly, making a battery that also fills up with water is a quick way to make a heavy battery, so we won't knock Tylt for being a heavy power bank. If you were already carrying both, the Tylt Bottle 2 power bank insulated water bottle combo is a fun, smart way to keep your kit charged. 

This bottle isn't available on Amazon, but you can find it elsewhere, including directly from AT&T as one of the accessories they offer when you buy a phone. Maybe that means we'll see it offered in a bundle deal sometime soon. 

7. Gomi Power Bank

✅ You care about the environment: Batteries are bad for the environment, but Gomi takes batteries from the landfill and uses them until they are truly depleted ✅ You love that swirly style: It helps that the Gomi Power Bank is one of the coolest around, with plenty of colors available. You can even customize, if you order enough of them. 

❌ You want a cheap battery: The Gomi Battery pack costs four times what a normal pack costs, but you also get to save the planet.   ❌ You need fast power: With only 18W of power delivery, the Gomi Battery pack isn't the fastest charging battery on our list.  

The Gomi Power Bank comes from a small company in the UK that doesn't just recycle, it actually re-uses old batteries that were destined from the landfill. By testing the batteries from discarded e-bikes, Gomi salvages the cells that are still good and uses them in the power bank, cutting down on e-waste in a unique way. 

Even the plastic is re-used, not just recycled. Gomi says it uses plastic bags that cannot be recycled. It adds color and presses them into the cool swirly patterns you see. You can also get a Bluetooth speaker, or even artwork and trophies, in the same style, all made from re-used plastic. 

If you live in the UK, you can easily get your battery repaired or swapped when it finally loses its charge. Even international customers can make the swap, but it isn't as easy if you're not local. 

If you care about the environment, and everybody must, then solutions like the Gomi Power Bank need to become more common, even if they cost a bit more. 

7. TravelCard Plus

✅ You need a battery that fits in a front pocket: The TravelCard Plus is truly pocket-sized, its as thick as six or seven credit cards, and it comes with its own cords attached. ✅ You only need a little more power: If you just need to top-up at the end of the day, the TravelCard Plus is just the right amount of power.  

❌ You need to charge your phone fully: With only 3,000mAh of battery power, you'll get less than a 50% charge on most new phones with the TravelCard Plus.  ❌ You don't need Lightning: The TravelCard Plus has USB-C and Lightning cords attached, even if you don't need Lightning any more. Not a big deal, but I'd trade that cord for more battery.  

If you're looking for that elusive power bank that can also fit in a (large) wallet, the TravelCard Plus is the battery you need. It's incredibly thin and light: about the same size as seven credit cards stacked. It doesn't have much power, but it doesn't waste space either, so you get just enough battery to keep your phone going a few more hours. 

How many hours? With a 3,000 mAh cell, the TravelCard Plus will take a smaller iPhone 15 to about 60% battery life, but any larger phone, like an iPhone 15 Pro Max, won't even get a 50% charge from this diminutive pack.

That's fine with us, because the TravelCard Plus has an excellent power-to-weight ratio, which means its not wasting space to shrink down small. You get all the battery that can fit in such a small pack, plus it comes with convenient USB-C and Lightning cords already attached. 

You may not have a Lightning iPhone any more, but your AirPods (or Magic Mouse) might still use Lightning, and then you'll be thankful for a battery pack that still gives your older Apple gear some juice. 

How to choose the best power bank for you

How do i choose the best power bank for me.

If you are charging a small smartphone, a simple power bank will suffice. If you plan on charging a laptop occasionally as well, or many devices at once, you'll want a power bank with more power and more features. 

If you have a newer Android phone, or the latest iPhone 15 models, you'll want a power bank with faster charging speeds to get your battery full faster. Charging speed is measured in wattage, and the iPhone 15 can charge just a bit faster than 15W, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra can charge up to 45W. 

You can also find a power bank that charges your phone (or even your Apple Watch) wirelessly. These will usually charge slower, but they can be very convenient if you want to leave wires at home.

Which power bank is the best quality?

Anker makes the best power banks we have tested so far, but batteries from Baseus and Otterbox also performed well. All of the power banks on this list passed our testing, traveling with us on the road and powering our devices at home.  

Anker is the best in part because it packs more power into its batteries at a lower weight. Its batteries charge faster than competitors. Its small Anker Nano battery has the best power-to-weight ratio of any battery on our list.

Which brand is best for power banks in 2023?

Anker is making the best power banks right now by far. It offers the best power-to-weight ratio, the fastest charging, and the most useful features. It far exceeds our expectations of what's makes a great power banks. 

How many times can my power bank charge my phone?

A 10,000mAh battery will give your phone around 6,000mAh of extra battery charge. Apple doesn't publish its battery capacity, but teardowns have shown that the iPhone 15 has a battery with around 3,350mAh of battery life. That means a 10,000mAh battery can charge that phone twice ... almost. You may not get to 100% the second charge, but you'll be in the 90% range. 

Any power bank that is 5,000mAh or smaller will probably not guarantee 100% charge on an iPhone 15 or larger phone. If you have a big battery phone like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which packs 5,000mAh inside, you'll need a power bank closer to 8,000mAh or more if you want a full recharge. 

How we test the best power banks

We have tested the best power banks by using them to charge a variety of devices, including Apple iPhone, Google Pixel, and Samsung Galaxy phones. We have also charged Apple iPad tablets, and small laptops including a Pixelbook Go and a Surface Laptop Go. 

We used the best power banks extensively while traveling to see how well they fit in our luggage and their relative utility versus the weight add to our pack. 

To test charging times and claims, we charged a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and an Apple iPhone 15 to determine how many charges each battery offers these devices. We chose a common smaller battery phone as well as our best phone overall for this purpose. 

Using the Anker Prime power bank, we were also able to test the charging speed claims of other power banks, as the Anker Prime will report charging speed in wattage. 

• Looking for a laptop charger? Here are our best portable laptop chargers . We've also featured the best portable projectors .

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Phil Berne is a preeminent voice in consumer electronics reviews, having reviewed his first device (the Sony D-EJ01 Discman) more than 20 years ago for eTown.com. He has been writing about phones and mobile technology, since before the iPhone, for a variety of sites including PCMag, infoSync, PhoneScoop, and Slashgear. He holds an M.A. in Cultural Theory from Carnegie Mellon University. 

Phil was the internal reviewer for Samsung Mobile, writing opinions and review predictions about top secret new devices months before launch. He left in 2017. He worked at an Apple Store near Boston, MA, at the height of iPod popularity. He has been a High School English teacher at Title I schools, and is a certified Lifeguard. His passion is smartphones and wearables, and he is sure that the next big thing will be phones we wear on our faces.

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5 Best Portable Battery Packs for Travel 2024

This post may contain affiliate links.

With more and more travel essential gadgets requiring charging, it’s little wonder that people are turning to portable battery packs to help fill the power gap when travelling. Be aware that not all battery packs are created equal in build, quality or price. Below I’ve listed 5 of the most common and widely regarded best chargers on the market at multiple price points. We carry several portable battery packs when we travel, including traditional and solar powered types. We use them for charging phones, Kindles, Nintendo DS, even laptops on the road. If your travel plans involve long journeys or locations and countries where power availability will be an issue, you should most certainly be investing in portable battery packs.

UPDATE: Due to global events it has come to my attention that Amazon are out of stock of many items, including some of our top recommended power banks and power packs listed below. I’m looking for other online suppliers of power banks, but for now, you may have to buy a “good” power pack rather than the “best”. Today, checking yet again, our two top selections, the Anker and the Hiluckey solar were back in stock. I can see that the chargers in the list below are available today, should our top picks vanish again. Please check specifications and what’s included with each item at the point of purchase as everything is in flux right now.

What’s new in portable chargers for travel? Wireless magnetic charging mats like the one below are becoming popular with newer devices, take a look here. But these aren’t good for use on buses etc, where there usually isn’t a point to plug them in.

To carry charge back-up in your bag for emergencies you need a more traditional travel power bank like the one below. Take a look at this power bank or pack here.

Some of the product-related links on this page will be affiliate links and if you use them we make a small commission. However, this doesn’t affect our decision to recommend them. Our recommendations are based on our honest first-hand research, experience, use, and findings.

• Anker Power Core 26800. Dual input port, double speed recharging, 3 USB ports. (use this link to buy in the US, UK, or Europe, see Australia below) This is a good one, top-end capabilities, and it holds a lot of power or charge (26,800 Milliamphere Hours, the biggest on this page), but very limited stock. We do recommend Anker as a trusted brand in power banks, we use them ourselves when we travel. For Australia, buy this power bank here. The quick charge capabilities are extremely usful. This is one of the heavier power banks (around 500g), so if weight is an issue, carry it onto the plane in a pocket. The lightweight models do not charge as well or as often in use, we prefer a more powerful power pack. This power bank should charge a phone, quickly, 5-6 times, and recharge itself from the mains faster than others too.
• INIU Portable charger with LED display . Half the price of the Anker above and still holds a good amount of charge, if you’re looking for a cheaper, smaller power bank. 20,000MAH (Milliamphere Hours), fast charging. This power bank is available in Australia here. This is a much lighter power bank than our first option, at 365g according to the manufacturers. This one has a 74Watt capacity so should be fine to take on most airlines and is lightweight.
• POWERADD Energy Cell 10,000. (not currently available) Very slim, very compact, low price. This low (10,000) MHA should change your smartphone once so is a very basic option, probably not the best choice for travel.
• Solar Power Bank,Yelomin 20000mAh Portable Outdoor Mobile Charger . We love solar chargers, but they tend to be heavy and the solar panels don’t last forever. Only buy these solar power banks if you need this function for an off-grid destination. They put the power in your hands when you’re out and about. We go off-grid often, be it in the Himalayas or camping in the tropical heat. We always pack a solar charger and this is a budget-friendly model. The solar chargers tend to be heavier, we find. UPDATE: Our favourite, Hiluckey model, below seems to be back in-stock.

Our 2 Top Favourite Power Packs

Obviously, not all needs are the same. We pack solar chargers often for remote travel and outdoor adventures but for regular travel, go with slim, light, compact and high-powered. Our two best chargers for your style of travel are below. You can click on the images to buy online.

• We take a look at 5 popular, high-quality portable power packs in this post, but to save you time, see our Favourite Hiluckey Portable, Solar, Water Resistant, Battery Pack . Here to check price.
• Alternatively, if you’re not looking for solar, the Anker Power Core 10000 is our top pick for compact, light, super portable high powered charging on the go. Take a look at this top pick and bestseller by clicking here.

We would suggest carrying these portable charging devices at all times in countries liable to regular power outages (eg. India, Nepal), for all Africa overlanding, and for any travel where you will spend days on buses and trains. You’ll even find them useful on some airlines still, by no means all planes have charging facilities.

5 of the Best Rechargeable, Portable Battery Packs for Travel

Anker powercore 10000.

Anker PowerCore 10000, One of the Smallest and Lightest 10000mAh External Batteries, Ultra-Compact, High-speed Charging Technology Power Bank for iPhone, Samsung Galaxy and More

This little power pack is great for day trips where you just need a top up. Small enough to fit in your pocket but powerful enough to charge a couple of phones or the same a few times if you’re really power-hungry, this one doesn’t hurt your wallet.

• Compact. One of the smallest and lightest 10000mAh portable charger (2.36 x 3.62 x 0.87 in, 6.4oz). Provides almost three-and-a-half iPhone 6s charges or three Galaxy S6 charges.
• Fast. Anker’s PowerIQ and VoltageBoost give you the fastest possible charge. Qualcomm Quick Charge not supported.
• Safe. Anker’s MultiProtect safety system ensures complete protection for you and your devices.
• What You Get. Anker PowerCore 10000 portable charger, Micro USB cable, travel pouch, welcome guide and 18-month warranty. Lightning cable for iPhone / iPad sold separately

Anker Power Core 5000, Ultra-Compact 5000mAh

Anker PowerCore 5000, Ultra-Compact 5000mAh External Battery with Fast-Charging Technology, Power Bank for iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy and more

The smallest and cheapest charger, less charge than the model above but a lower price. Really only suitable for a day trip. This charger will get you out of a low battery warning but isn’t going to get you much further.

• Capacity. Contains 5000 mAh of power. Enough to provide two charges to an iPhone 6s or at least one to a Galaxy S7.
• Ultra-Compact: Remarkably small, tubular design slides easily next to your phone in any pocket or bag. Just 10cm tall and 3cm wide.
• Fast. Equipped with exclusive PowerIQ technology, it provides the fastest charge to any phone or tablet (up to 2A).
• What You Get. PowerCore 5000, travel pouch, Micro-USB cable, welcome guide and an 18-month warranty.

Anker PowerCore 26800 Portable Charger

Anker PowerCore 26800 Portable Charger, 26800mAh External Battery with Dual Input Port and Double-Speed Recharging, 3 USB Ports for iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Android and other Smart Devices

For the serious power user. With a massive 26800mAh capacity this will last for those weekends away. If you’re traveling off the grid for a short time this is the one to have. Big enough to do tablets as well as phones this will cover all bases. It can even charge more than one device at a time. It also recharges itself twice as quickly as other devices meaning you should never be stuck without power.  More expensive as far as battery packs go but this ticks all the boxes if you really need a large amount of portable power. If you don’t want the solar, I’d choose this one for travel.

• Huge Capacity. 26800mAh of power charges most phones over 7 times, tablets at least 2 times and any other USB device multiple times.
• High-Speed Charging: 3 USB outlet ports with Anker’s PowerIQ and VoltageBoost technology for high-speed charging for three devices simultaneously (max output 6A, single-port max output 3A).
• Faster Recharge. Dual Micro USB (20W) input for recharge speeds up to twice as fast as standard portable chargers—a full recharge takes just over 6 hours.
• What You Get: PowerCore 26800, 2X Micro USB Cable, Travel Pouch, Welcome Guide and an 18-month warranty.

Anker Power Core+ 26800, Premium Portable Charger

Anker PowerCore+ 26800, Premium Portable Charger, High Capacity 26800mAh External Battery with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 (in- and output), Includes PowerPort+ 1 Wall Charger

This is the deluxe of power chargers. Can charge 3 devices simultaneously up to 6A and will recharge twice as quickly as other chargers. Comes with a handy wall socket. When fully charged you could get a weeks worth of charges out of it. Perfect for an off the grid holiday or trekking. Think Himalayas here people. The price matches the performance.  Not the cheapest but by far the best in terms of what it can achieve. Suits families with more than one device to charge.

• Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0: Using Qualcomm’s advanced Quick Charge 3.0 technology, PowerCore+ allows compatible devices to charge 85% faster. Recharges itself twice as fast with the included wall charger.
• Fast-Charging. Exclusive to Anker, PowerIQ and VoltageBoost technologies combine to provide universal full-speed charging for non-Quick Charge devices, up to 3 amps per port.
• Extra Capacity: PowerCore+ 26800 is one of the world’s highest capacity portable charger with Quick Charge 3.0 technology. It charges the iPhone 6s 9 times, the Galaxy S6 over seven times or the 2015 MacBook more than three times.
• What You Get: Anker PowerCore+ 26800, PowerPort+ 1 with Quick Charge 3.0, Micro USB cable, travel pouch, welcome guide and 18-month worry-free warranty.

Solar Charging Hiluckey 25000mAh Solar Power Bank

See here to order online – Solar Charger 25000mAh, Waterproof, Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Power Bank with 4 Solar Panels,  External Battery Pack with Dual 2.1A Output, Fast Charge, USB Compatible with Smartphones, Tablets, USB charged devices

This is the solar powered charger I have and use. I like that it can be either solar or power charged. Being rugged, water resistant, dust resistant, and shock proof means I’m not worried about it getting damaged as we travel the world. The solar charge part is great for topping up any charge, anywhere. 4 separate panels allow for fast charging where ever you are. Just leaving it on a table in sunlight means it is topping up. With the added bonus of a built-in torch for night time in new hotels, it is ideal on many levels. The price is also great.  This is the one we use for trekking in Nepal when power is hard to come by. It has a lower charge capacity, the same as the model at the top of the page, but the ability to top up in daylight makes that fact unimportant.

• A built in 25000mAh lithium battery equipped with a compact solar panel, could recharge the battery itself under sunlight for emergency purpose while outdoor. Can also charge with it’s built in USB Port(input 5V1A) from mains supply.
• 2 USB Outlets. Dual USB 2.1A
• Rugged, rain resistant, dust-proof, shockproof & compact with good looks for any adventure traveller.
• Flashlight, hook and compass.
• Integrated LED indicators to show power status and charging progress.
• Portable and Lightweight. Easy to hold or put anywhere your want.
• Equipped with over-charge protection system.
• Can recharge by solar or outlet.
• Compatible with Smart phones and other 5V USB devices, Can charge iPhone 8 to 10 times.
• We’ve tested it, it does not require bright sunlight and will charge just fine indoors.
• 4 solar panels for effective fast charging.

Are You Allowed To Take Power Banks on a Plane?

Most power banks can be taken on a plane, provided the internal battery comes in below 100 Watt Hours. (Wh). If you can’t find the Watt Hour specifications for your battery pack, use the formula mAh x Internal Battery Voltage /1000 = Watt Hours (Wh).

You should have these chargers in your hand luggage, not your checked luggage, and always check if your airline has any special regulations around power banks and chargers.

Quantas requires that a charger’s lithium ion batteries not excede 160 Wh, for instance, and they must be declared at check-in. These regulations do change, so always check. AirAsia’s regulations are here.

We have taken hundreds of flights in Asia, Australia, Europe and the US, and never had any issues with taking power banks onto a plane in our carry on bags. We’ve also got extremely good use out of them, both on the plane, and at the airport.

Do You Need To Pack a Power Bank For a Flight?

Yes, you should always have back-up power for your phone or laptop when you travel. Some airlines have USB charging ports for each seat, but many do not and often they will be broken.

Likewise, at some airports you can struggle to find a place to charge your device. With boarding passes and reservations being online, and QR codes being used at immigration and customs in an increasing number of countries, you can’t risk being without power to your phone or iPad. Your laptop, if you are carrying one, must be charged too.

We’ve travelled for over 4 years with power packs and we use them all the time. We would suggest carrying at least 2 for a family or one very high capacity power bank with multiple ports. Our solar charged model, bought last year, is our favourite so far and we highly recommend carrying a couple of these for emergencies, maybe in conjunction with a maximum capacity model for laptop users. Back to our main travel gear page.

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If you'd like to hire a car during your stay, use this car rental comparison tool to find the best deal! We also suggest you take a look at this company to get a quote for all kinds of the more tricky adventure or extended travel insurance. Try Stayz / VRBO for an alternative way to find rentals on homes/apartments/condos in any country!

Related Posts:

Alyson Long

Places to visit in thailand with family, what to blog about, 20 thoughts on “5 best portable battery packs for travel 2024”.

Are any of these waterproof? Researching those types. Thanks

That’s a very good question. I don’t know sorry, but I’ll do some research. We’ve never needed one to be waterproof.

I have a solar portable battery. I was in Puerto Rico for hurricane Maria and that’s what I used to power my phone and other essentials.

They are very useful for power outages too. I didn’t know the importance of good battery packs until I went through my first hurricane.

Do the Anker Power cords work in Europe or do you need a converter? Ireland precisely. Thank you

Do you mean the plug? They work anywhere so long as you can plug them in, we take ours all over the world.

Thank you. We have an adapter for our plugs to for but no converter to switch 110v to 130v. Didn’t want to burn out my Ankers!

If they’re selling them on UK Amazon they must be UK compatible. Check the spec on there.

Tips to save space in your suitcase

Roll the clothes instead of folding them. You can save your space and carry some extra items such as belt and pair of extra socks in your baggage.

Wear as much as you can rather than packing it. This doesn’t sound cool but it is one of the best trick.

Wear extra clothes inside your over coat and later remove them once you are on your sear after boarding the flight. A little extra layer of clothes on your body will give you a lot of free space in your bag. Now you have some extra space in your suitcase to put some more items.

You can also use your pockets to hold small things rather than putting them in your luggage. You can even fold small clothing items and place them in large pockets of a jacket or cargo pants.

Thank you for the informative post. It is a great list of portable battery packs. I currently use Anker PowerCore 10000, and I love it. All Anker’ products are good. 🙂 I also use a magnetic phone charge for more convenient and safe use, I think it’s good for your travel too! P/S: Your posts are awesome! I just followed you on Twitter. Hope to see your new post soon. Robert !

Great list and Battery Packs have become so important while traveling nowadays. I was in the market for a couple and I like the Solar one, but also the design of the Anker PowerCre 5000 however don’t think it can handle the big devices. Will try the Hilukcy and see how it goes. Thanks

Hello Alyson, I like this post. Portable battery for travel is the best option for all. This is the most travel essential gadgets requiring charging, This is an appreciable post. Thanks and keep sharing.

I have read your impressive article. Perfect information with Detail Pics. Thank You ????

Planning to buy some of the things that you’ve mentioned. Charges are a big part of our life and I would like to say thank you for sharing this. Keep it up!

Great post! Chargers are my travel nemesis – I either forget then or they don’t work effectively, so will be checking out the ones on your list for sure. I especially love the idea of a solar option!

I was indecisive about the Ankers but you seem to have sold me on the Hiluckey! Thanks for the info!

We’ve just bought our first portable battery – still waiting for a chance to use it. Haha. I guess South America’s been quite reliable on the power thing.

Oh how I love our portable battery packs. I also have a phone case that is an additional battery. When we are moving/travelling full time, that is the case I have on my phone 24/7. We also have one like the cylindrical one on your post, and another that is a flat pack, but it can double as a stand to hold your phone/ipad.

I REALLY REALLY want solar powered ones though, and just use them all the time instead of having plugs in the wall all the time!!!

We are in LOVE with our solar ones Sarah. So much easier and greener than plugging in. They seem to charge really quickly too, even indoors.

Great post. I have been thinking of buying one of these for awhile now. Sorting out our next adventure once our little one is a bit older. Gives us awhile to plan. Will definitely get one of these now.

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The 11 Best Portable Power Bank Chargers for Travel [2024]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

795 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to look for in a power bank, the 11 best portable power banks for travel, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

When you’re miles from anywhere, a portable power bank can quickly become your very best friend.

Giving an extra burst of battery life to your cell phone or iPad can keep you amused for longer, or more importantly, ensure that you’re always able to get in touch with the rest of the world.

Size and Weight

Your power bank is designed to be portable, otherwise, what’s the point?! With this in mind, the physical size and weight of it will be major factors in considering which one is right for you.

The charger should be able to fit neatly in the same space as your cell phone; otherwise, you’ll have one in your pocket while carrying the other in your hand — not cool!

Bottom Line: Look for one that will fit neatly in your pocket, purse, or backpack . While power banks should have a sturdy feel about them, they shouldn’t be uncomfortably heavy, so opt for one that’s light enough not to weigh you (or your pockets) down.

Milliamp (mAh)

The power capacity that your power bank kicks out is measured in milliamp-hours or “mAh.” The amount of mAh available will define how much charge you can expect to get out of your power bank.

Common capacity ratings range from 2,000mAh to 20,000mAh and in some cases, even as high as 40,000mAh. To give you a rough idea of how the amount of mAh juice in the bank affects what you can charge and how often, consider the following:

• An iPhone 7 can be charged approximately 6 times with a 20,000mAh power bank
• A Samsung Galaxy S8 can be charged approximately 4.5 times with a 20,000mAh power bank
• An iPad mini can be charged approximately 4 times with a 20,000mAh power bank

Think about what devices you need a power bank for and how long you’ll be away from a power outlet. If you just need something to keep your phone topped up a couple of times a day, a 5,000mAh or 10,000mAh will do the job just fine and it will be physically smaller, too.

Hot Tip: Most airlines will cap power banks at 20,000mAh while some will allow larger. Always check with your airline as to what the maximum capacity requirements are.

Inputs (1A, 2A, or 2.4A)

At some point, your power bank will need charging up to ensure it can provide the backup charge power you need. What you want is a nice, quick recharge speed that means you can get back out there without having to be attached to a wall socket for hours on end.

The input charging speed is dependent on the type of wall charger used. A standard wall charger with a 2A output would recharge the power bank twice as fast as one with only a 1A output. For this to happen, your power bank would need to offer a 2A input.

While some do offer this, many still rely on a 1A input which will take longer to reach a full charge.

Hot Tip: Newer power banks can be charged even more quickly with the addition of a 2.4A input option. Look out for these if you want the fastest charge on the market. 

1. Pint-sized Perfection for Single-use Charging

Anker PowerCore, 5000 mAh Ultra-Compact Portable Charger

Capacity: 5,000mAh

Lightweight and super useful, this tiny, compact charger is enough to provide 2 full charges for your iPhone 8 or 1 charge for your iPhone X or Samsung Galaxy S9.

Measuring 4.5 x 1.3 x 1.3 inches and weighing 4.8 ounces, you’ll have no problem fitting this handy charger in your pocket or purse on the go.

With a fairly impressive battery capacity of 5,000mAh, this product is well-made and is an excellent example of an established brand squeezing good-quality components into small packages.

The charger features PowerIQ technology that identifies the type of device it’s charging to optimize efficiency, as well as a VoltageBoost to overcome cable resistance for top-speed charging.

With both a USB and micro USB port and the ability to be fully recharged in as little as 3 to 4 hours, this small battery pack will be with you on every adventure.

As a one-off, emergency charger, this is one of the best in the business. When you need that little bit extra, you can retrieve this from your handbag to allow you to stay charged on the go.

There’s no real downside to this particular power bank, but if you want more power, you’ll need to invest in a model with more capacity. As with all Anker chargers, this model also comes with an 18-month warranty.

What We Like

• Comes with a travel pouch

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t include a USB-C cable

2. Superstar Power Bank Offering Dual Charging

• Lanluk Portable Charger Power Bank

Capacity: 25,800mAh

This is a popular and very impressive power bank from Lanluk. With 2 incredibly fast USB ports, powerful and efficient lithium-ion batteries, and a highly portable design, this is a great option for anyone who needs to boost their power on the go.

Measuring just 5.9 x 3 x 0.6 inches and weighing 12.3 ounces, the slightly heavy feeling in your pocket is more than made up for by the superfast charging capability it offers.

This power bank has 2 USB ports that can be used to charge multiple devices at the same time — 1 2.1A outport and 1 1A outport. The unit also offers Auto IC technology that very cleverly identifies your device for maximum charge efficiency .

Different devices will vary on how many times they can be charged, but to give you an idea, your iPhone 8 could be charged a whopping 7 times when this power bank is fully charged.

• Charges 2 devices at once
• Recharge of the power bank could be quicker

3. A Great Little Charger That Packs a Punch

• TG90 6000 mAh Portable Charger

Capacity: 6,000mAh

Compact and lightweight, this small power bank is incredibly portable. Weighing in at just 4.3 ounces and measuring only 4.1 x 0.5 x 2.6 inches, complete with cables, it’s one of the smallest 6,000mAh chargers available .

This TG90 power bank can easily fit in your pocket, purse, or day bag for easy charging on the go and its tiny size belies its powerful charging capabilities. Built-in iPhone and Android cables mean you don’t need to remember to bring your cables, and there are 2 additional 2A outputs (USB and Type-C) for charging multiple devices.

When it comes to charging your power bank back up, this can be done in as little as 3 hours without other connections, or you can charge up while charging your portable devices at the same time. If you happen to be short of light, this power bank also has a handy built-in LED flashlight.

This is a great power pack for the price, and should you run into any problems, you can relax knowing that it comes with a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty.

• Small and lightweight to fit in any bag
• Only holds a charge for 1 or 2 phones

4. A Great All-around Charger for Days Out and Long Journeys

• Anker 321 Power Bank

Capacity: 5,200mAh

The Anker 321 Power Bank   offers a handy amount of extra capacity for keeping your iPhone, Android phone, iPad, or tablet topped up while you’re away from home.

Measuring just 3.78 x 1.78 x 0.91 inches and weighing 4.5 ounces, you’ll easily be able to take this everywhere with you.

Using Anker’s PowerIQ device-detection technology, charging times will be adjusted to help reduce charging time and increase efficiency, depending on what device you have plugged in.

With a USB-A and USB-C port, you can charge 2 devices at the same time and this compact portable charger has enough power to charge your iPhone 13 once. The bright LED indicators show the power level at a glance.

This is a great portable charger from one of the best brands on the market. Affordable and efficient, this won’t last you for weeks on end, but it will provide you with more than enough power for an extra charge or 2 when you need it the most.

• Comes with an 18-month warranty
• Doesn’t come with an iPhone charging cable

5. A Firm Favorite for Those Who Need Power

• Anker PowerCore II 10000 Ultra Slim Power Bank

Capacity: 10,000mAh

The upgraded PowerCore II is an impressive power bank that features Anker’s new charging chip.

Being able to squeeze the power into a single chip makes for a lighter and more powerful charger that’s more portable than ever before. Measuring 5.39 x 2.6 x 0.59 inches and weighing just 7.52 ounces, you can easily pop this in your handbag, backpack, or pocket.

Kicking out 10,000mAh of power, you’ll be able to charge your iPhone 8/X/XS/XS Max/XR, Android smartphones, tablets, USB-C MacBook, or your iPad anywhere you go. When it comes to recharging the device itself, it can take between 4 and 10 hours, depending on the type of input you’re using.

The super-high-speed capacity means you can quickly and efficiently charge an iPhone X over 2.4 times, a Galaxy S9 2.2 times or an iPhone 8 over 3.6 times before the power bank’s battery is empty.

The PowerCore II looks as good as it functions, too, with a soft silicone surface that cushions your smartphone and helps to prevent scuffs and scratches, as well as a slim design that can rest perfectly next to your cell phone.

• Super thin to fit easily into your carry-on or laptop bag
• Only has 1 USB port

6. One of the Best-loved Power Banks Ever Made

Anker powercore 13000.

Capacity: 13,000mAh

This ultra-portable, 2-point power bank is robust enough to go anywhere with you while offering the capacity to keep your cell phone or devices topped up on the go.

Measuring 3.8 x 3.1 x 0.9 inches and weighing just 8.47 ounces, this lightweight charger is small enough to fit in your pocket, purse, or wallet alongside your cell phone.

With enough oomph to charge an iPhone 8 almost 5 times, an iPhone X or Samsung Galaxy S8 3 times, or an iPad Air 2 1 time, this is useful for anyone on the move.

The patented PowerIQ technology ensures intelligent high-speed charging for all your devices, while the VoltageBoost prevents cable resistance from slowing your charging speeds.

With simultaneous dual-port charging, you can be off on your adventures again in no time. As some of the most popular and best-selling portable chargers in the world, the PowerCore range is fast to charge up. You can have a fully charged power bank in 4 to 10 hours, depending on the cable speed.

30% lighter than other comparable power banks and just the right size to take anywhere, this is a solid option for anyone looking for more power away from home.

• Has 2 high-speed USB ports
• No wall charger included

7. A Great Choice for Charging Small Laptops on the Go

• Sikon AC Outlet Portable Laptop Power Bank

Capacity : 31,200mAh

This is a veritable beast of a power bank that provides a whopping 31,200mAh, an AC outlet, and 3 additional USB outputs (5V/2A, and Type-C output and input 5V/3A,) all wrapped up in a thin, highly portable power bank.

Weighing in at 2.4 pounds and measuring 2.8 x 2.8 x 8.6 inches, it’s too big to fit in your pocket but should fit just fine in a large purse or laptop case. If you want to work on your laptop on the go and keep it powered up, this is a reasonably compact choice, given the amount of power it can provide you with.

While the Sikon Power Bank is compatible with numerous devices, its primary function is to keep your laptop operational no matter where you are .

It works best in association with smaller laptops such as MacBooks, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Microsoft Surface Pro, Dell XPS, HP TPN-C116, and THINKPAD E430, as well as some others that operate at no more than 85 watts.

It provides fast and effective charging capabilities, although 1.8 full charges of your laptop will drain the power bank entirely, meaning you’ll need to plug it into a wall socket somewhere before you head out again.

It will also charge your phone, GoPro, iPad, and even gaming gadgets, so while it works well with laptops, it’s not limited to just their use.

• The display shows the percentage of charge remaining
• The cooling fan is quite loud

8. Best Value Power Bank for Outdoor Adventures

BLAVOR Solar Power Bank

Great for outdoor explorers, this 10,000mAh portable power bank comes complete with carabiner, compass, and a built-in flashlight to help you stay connected and on track wherever you are.

Measuring 5.9 x 2.9 x 0.9 inches and weighing 9.3 ounces, this is a great choice for anyone needing extra power on the go.

This power bank also doubles as a Qi wireless charging device.

This power bank has a choice of micro USB, USB-A and USB-C connections. It can efficiently charge 3 devices simultaneously and most cell phones between 2 and 2.5 times on 1 full charge.

While it does offer solar power capabilities, it’s advised that this function is used as backup and that the power bank be fully charged before you set off on your next adventure.

Designed to last, this sturdy charger is IPX5 waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof and covered in flameproof material, making it a durable outdoor addition to your camping, hiking, or trekking equipment to ensure that you can reliably keep in touch with the rest of the world when you head off the grid.

The only downside to this particular model is that the solar panel seems like a bit of a gimmick, but if that doesn’t worry you, it’s still a useful little charger for using away from home.

• Great for camping or other outdoor adventures
• The solar panel isn’t something to rely on

9. 2 Power Banks for all Your Charging Needs

2-Pack Miady 10000mAh Dual USB Portable Charger

Capacity: 10,000mAh each

This 2-pack of Miady power banks will ensure that your devices never run out of juice. While not in the same leagues as the more expensive, bigger brand power bars and banks on the market, the Miady portable charger is a nifty bank that will see you right for an extra charge when you need it most.

Keep both chargers for yourself or gift the second to your partner or friend. You can choose between a set of black and white power banks or a couple of other brightly colored combinations.

This power bank can charge cell phones and small devices quickly and offers 10,000mAh capability. There are 2 USB outputs on both devices, both rated at 2.4A, and a micro USB port rated at 2A.

4 LEDs light up to indicate the percentage of power remaining (each light represents 25%) and the power bank automatically powers off if no device has been connected for 30 seconds.

• Available in a few different color combinations
• Doesn’t always start charging automatically when plugged in

10. Great for Gamers on the Go

• Antank Power Bank For Nintendo Switch

With enough power to charge up your Nintendo Switch even while you play it, this is a medium-sized charger that measures 6.1 x 3.2 x 1.9 inches and weighs 8.8 ounces. It was the first power bank to neatly attach directly to the back of a Switch , so there’s no need to hold it awkwardly while you play.

This nifty power bank will give you between 8.5 and 12 hours of total charge playing some of your favorite Nintendo Switch games.

While this power bank has a built-in Type-C cable to connect to your Switch, there’s also a Type-C port and a USB (3A) to charge up your iPhone and other devices.

• Can be used and charged simultaneously
• Can feel quite weighty on the back of the Switch

11. Great for Vacations and Overnight Stays

• VimPower Portable Charger 22000mAh Battery Pack

Capacity: 22,000mAh

Made from 2 high-density, lithium polymer batteries, this multi-device charging power bank is an effective and affordable way to keep your cell phone, iPhone, or iPad fully charged on the go.

Weighing just 1.1 pounds and measuring 7.5 x 4 x 1.3 inches, this clever pack will easily fit in your purse, backpack, or laptop bag.

This power bank features 2 USB A ports, 1 Type-C port, and 2 micro USB ports, which can charge multiple devices at the same time, and it comes with a couple of charging cables, too. The highly efficient 22,000mAh capacity battery can charge most phones over 5 times, and most tablets over 4 times, meaning you can keep entertained and in touch wherever you go.

The 15W and 30W ports supply super-quick charge times that are 2 to 3 times faster than traditional power banks , and to give you an idea of this speed — an iPhone XS Max can be charged to 50% in just 30 minutes.

For its size and capability, this power bank is to back to full charge in as little as 7 hours, and should you experience problems, it does come with a full 3-year warranty from the manufacturer.

• 30W ports can charge some laptops
• Different ports aren’t clearly marked with charging capabilities

There are plenty of reasons why you should invest in a portable power bank and there are just as many types and variations for you to choose from.

Before you commit, look for a model that can charge your devices quickly and efficiently and that doesn’t take days on end to charge itself.

An efficient power bank will completely transform the way you use our portable devices when you’re away from home. Choose wisely, and you will be able to extend the battery life of your cell phone, tablet, laptop, and even small gaming consoles, literally anywhere in the world.

Love streamlining your travel tech? Don’t miss out on these other product reviews:

• The Best Portable and Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel
• The Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers for Travel
• The Best Travel Electronic Organizers for Your Cables and Cords
• Best Travel Products – Tech & Photography Focus

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring a power bank on a plane.

Power banks can only be transported on a plane in a carry-on and cannot be in your checked luggage.

Airlines usually allow a 100Wh power bank with a 5V output, which equates to 20,000mAh.

Some airlines will allow 160Wh power banks if you declare it beforehand. Always check with your airline before you fly.

What is the best portable power bank?

Some of the best portable power banks that we recommend are:

• Anker PowerCore 1300
• Anker PowerCore 5000 mAh Ultra-Compact Portable Charger
• Qi Solar Power Bank

Is 20,000mAh good for a portable charger?

20,000mAh is a fairly common capacity for many portable chargers, which equates to around 6 full charges of an iPhone 7.

How many mAh is good for a portable charger?

How do i choose a portable charger.

The important things to consider when choosing a portable charger are:

• The size and weight, so it’s not too bulky for your needs
• The power capacity that the power bank kicks out (measured in milliamp-hours or “mAh”)
• The input charging speed

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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• Electronics
• Accessories

The Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks for Phones and Tablets

By Sarah Witman

Sarah Witman is a writer focused on batteries and charging accessories. She has spent countless hours charging, discharging, and recharging batteries.

Whether you’re a glued-to-your-screen smartphone owner who can never make it through a day on a full charge, or you just need an occasional battery boost, USB power banks are a panacea for low-battery anxiety.

After putting in hundreds of hours of research and testing, we’ve found that the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K is the best power bank to charge a phone, tablet, or another small, handheld device.

It’s an all-around great portable charger that can offer you peace of mind whenever wall outlets are out of reach.

Everything we recommend

Belkin BoostCharge Plus 10K

The best power bank for phones, tablets, and more.

This power bank is small and light, and its rounded edges make it easy to slip into a pocket. It comes in only one color, but it has two built-in cables and enough capacity to charge most smartphones up to three times.

Buying Options

TravelCard Plus

A boost of power in an ultra-thin package.

This power bank is one of the smallest and lightest we’ve tested. It has a powerful USB-C PD port, built-in USB-C and Lightning cables, and a 3,000 mAh rated capacity. But it recharges slower than our other picks.

Budget pick

Scosche GoBat 10K

Plenty of power, but no built-in cables.

This power bank has a USB-C PD port to charge devices at top speed, as well as a USB-A port for older devices. It’s not as slim as we’d like, but it’s lightweight and can charge most phones three times.

What we look for

We searched for power banks with enough wattage to ensure the fastest possible charging and recharging speeds.

We sought out power banks weighing 8 ounces (half a pound) or less, making them easy to carry around in a wallet, pocket, or bag.

We preferred power banks rated for at least 2,000 mAh and up to 10,000 mAh capacity, which tells you roughly how much battery life they hold.

We chose power banks with a warranty of at least one year, giving you plenty of time to use it and ensure it’s not a dud.

The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K weighs about half a pound, and its rounded edges make it easy to hold or slip into a pocket.

Its USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port can charge most handheld devices and recharge itself at top speed (with the right USB-C cable and wall charger ), and it can pass power to another device while being recharged from a wall outlet.

It only comes in one color, but it has enough capacity to fully charge most smartphones up to three times, as well as built-in USB-C and Lightning cables that are easy to slide in and out of their holsters.

• Rated capacity: 10,000 mAh (36 Wh)
• Weight: 8.4 ounces
• Tested input: 19 watts (USB-C PD port or built-in USB-C cable)
• Tested output: 18 watts (USB-C PD port, built-in USB-C cable, or built-in Lightning cable)

The TravelCard Plus has less than a third of the Belkin’s capacity, but it’s much lighter and slimmer.

Its USB-C PD port, built-in USB-C cable, and built-in Lightning cable can fast-charge most smartphones or other handheld devices (though it recharges more slowly than our other picks).

It’s just as sleek-looking and sturdy as our top pick, and it comes in a wider variety of colors. Plus, as of this writing, it’s nearly half the price.

• Rated capacity: 3,000 mAh (15 Wh)
• Weight: 2.7 ounces
• Tested input: 7 watts (USB-C PD port or built-in USB-C cable)
• Tested output: 15 watts (built-in USB-C cable) or 10 watts (built-in Lightning cable)

If money is tight, and you can live without the convenience of built-in cables, go for the Scosche GoBat 10K .

It’s on a par with the Belkin in terms of its power, capacity, build quality, and ease of use.

It has a fast-charging USB-C PD port (input and output) and a USB-A port (output only), and unlike our other picks it comes with a USB-C charging cable.

While it has a slightly chunky shape, which makes it a bit cumbersome to stow in small spaces, it weighs less than half a pound.

• Weight: 6.4 ounces
• Tested input: 25 watts (USB-C PD port)
• Tested output: 20 watts (USB-C PD port) or 17 watts (USB-A port)

The research

Why you should trust me, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: belkin boost charge plus 10k, also great: travelcard plus, budget pick: scosche gobat 10k, other good power banks, what to look forward to, the competition.

I’ve been a science journalist for nearly a decade, covering a wide variety of topics from particle physics to satellite remote sensing.

Since joining Wirecutter in 2017, I’ve reported on surge protectors , portable power stations , and more. For this guide alone, I’ve spent more than 100 hours cumulatively researching and testing power banks.

Most people can find use for a USB power bank (also called an external battery pack, backup battery, or portable charger) to keep phones and other devices charged while on the go.

Rather than tracking down a wall outlet, owning a USB power bank allows you to enjoy a conveniently portable (albeit limited) power supply.

The question is, which one best fits into your habits? Some might need only a small battery to give their phone a boost at the end of the day, while those who travel a lot may be looking to power multiple devices over the course of several days.

A wallet-sized power bank is great to keep on hand for those unexpected (yet critical) moments when your phone is dying and no outlets are nearby.

But if you want something for weekend trips or a regular commute, the picks in this guide offer one or more full charges for most smartphones but can still fit easily in laptop bags, totes, purses, or even large pockets.

These power banks are robust yet portable, allowing you to charge small devices such as wireless headphones , computer mice , keyboards , vaporizers , digital cameras , and more.

Strategically placing a few of these around the house isn’t a bad idea either: You can keep one in your foyer to grab as you’re running out the door, or one near the couch for when you’re curled up cozily under a blanket and really, really don’t want to get up to plug in your phone.

For laptops and other large devices that charge via USB-C or AC , we have separate guides for power banks with much higher capacity ratings than the chargers we recommend here.

With tons of brands and models to choose from, we checked out major retailers to find the most widely available options and narrowed the scope of our search using the following criteria:

• Powerful charging and recharging: For models with USB-C output or input, we preferred those rated for at least 15 watts. That’s the minimum wattage needed for full USB-C charging and recharging speeds (though devices that support the even faster USB-C standard— USB Power Delivery , or USB PD—need at least 18 watts). Likewise, for models with USB-A output or Micro-USB input, we looked for those rated for 8 watts or more. Anything less powerful would be painfully slow.
• No heavier than half a pound: Power banks should be small and lightweight, making them easy to tote around in a wallet, pocket, or bag for an entire day. We preferred to test power banks weighing 8 ounces or less, since we don’t think most people want to carry something in their pocket or purse that weighs much more than a smartphone (for reference, an iPhone 14 weighs 6.1 ounces and a Pixel 7 weighs 6.9 ounces ).
• Capacity rating of 2,000 to 10,000 mAh: The capacity rating listed on the power bank tells you roughly how much power it can hold. Since batteries with a capacity rating of more than 10,000 mAh tend to be bigger, heavier, and more expensive, for this guide we focused primarily on those with enough capacity to give your phone a boost of power or to fully charge it several times.
• At least a one-year warranty: A year is plenty of time to use your power bank and make sure it’s working properly, although longer warranties are always preferable.
• Brand reputation: We favored brands that we’ve had good experiences with in the past when it comes to responsive customer support and product reliability. We discounted models still undergoing a crowdfunding campaign, as well as brands lacking a visible web presence.
• Price: We used a ratio of capacity (mAh) per dollar to break ties between otherwise similar models.
• Built-in cables: We preferred power banks with some type of built-in cable or plug. This type of feature is indispensable when executed well, since separate charging cables (even if they’re neatly coiled up) take up more space in a bag.

We tested the performance of each power bank in a few key areas, including the following:

• Weight: We used an Escali Primo Digital Scale to confirm the advertised weight of each power bank.
• Size: Rather than measure the dimensions of each power bank, we considered size in terms of whether a power bank fit inside a wallet, a pocket (we tried a variety of pants, skirt, and jacket pockets), or an accessories pouch .
• Look and feel: We took note of each power bank’s bulk and exterior texture, and considered how easy and intuitive its features were to use.
• Charging output of USB-A ports: We connected a half-charged power bank to a Drok USB load tester , turned up the amperage as far as it could go without overloading the power bank, and recorded the measured maximum output (watts) from each USB-A port.
• Charging input and output of USB-C ports: We used a Total Phase USB Power Delivery Analyzer to measure the maximum output (watts) from each USB-C port
• Device compatibility: Because some devices can be finicky when it comes to charging, we plugged each of the power banks into a half-charged Nintendo Switch, iPhone 14, and pair of Jabra wireless headphones to make sure they could successfully top them off.

The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K is compact, sleek, and powerful. It has a USB-C PD port, built-in Lightning and USB-C cables, and as much battery life as any model we tested. It’s on the pricey side, but no other model we’ve tested matches its unique combination of features.

It has built-in cables. In addition to a fast-charging USB-C PD port, the Belkin’s built-in Lightning and USB-C cables can charge most phones or other handheld devices (or recharge the unit itself) at top speed.

It packs a lot of power. We measured up to 19 W flowing into the power bank through either the USB-C PD port or built-in USB-C cable, and up to 18 W flowing out through the USB-C PD port, built-in USB-C cable, or built-in Lightning cable. With two devices plugged into the power bank, we measured a total maximum output of 24 W—more than twice as much power as some models we tested.

It has passthrough charging. While recharging the Belkin, you can simultaneously charge another device (we measured up to 15 W of passthrough charging power). This is a highly convenient, yet somewhat rare, feature.

It has great battery life. With a capacity rating of 10,000 mAh, the Belkin has enough juice to fully charge an iPhone 14 (and most other smartphones) up to three times, while some models we tested struggle to bring a phone from empty to full just once.

It won’t weigh you down. Weighing 8.4 ounces, or just over half a pound, the Belkin doesn’t add a lot of extra bulk to a backpack or purse. Plus, its built-in cables negate the need to carry additional charging cables.

It’s enjoyable to use . The best-designed products are those you barely notice, and the Belkin is no exception. It has a streamlined, minimalistic look that blends in easily with its surroundings. Its rounded edges make it comfortable to hold and easy to slip into a pocket, while the textured plastic shell offers some extra grip.

While the same is true of nearly every model we tested, this power bank is effortless to use: A single button turns it on and off (it also powers down automatically when not connected to anything), and four small LEDs indicate how much battery life remains.

It’s sturdily built. The Belkin has a rugged build quality, and the attached cables slide seamlessly in and out of their holsters without showing signs of straining or tearing.

Belkin offers a long warranty and good customer support. Belkin’s two-year warranty gives you more than enough time to use the power bank and ensure it’s in working order. We’ve found the company’s customer support to be responsive, too.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• At the time of this writing, the Boost Charge Plus 10K costs $70, making it one of the priciest models we tested.
• This model doesn’t come with a wall charger, or any other accessories. But since most people already have a compatible wall charger (or several) at home, and they’re fairly inexpensive, we don’t think it’s a major issue. (Plus, it helps reduce e-waste .)
• Lastly, as of this writing, this power bank is only available in black. That’s unfortunate for those who haven’t embraced the soft goth aesthetic , but we’ll give it a pass. (It’ll likely spend most of its time inside the dark depths of a backpack, purse, or pants pocket anyway.)

If you want an ultra-compact power bank that can fit in a small crossbody bag or clutch, the TravelCard Plus is your best bet.

It doesn’t have enough capacity to fully charge most smartphones, but it’s one of the lightest models we’ve tested, and like our top pick it has built-in USB-C and Lightning cables. Plus, it comes in a wider variety of colors than our other picks.

It’s powerful for its size (though it recharges at a snail’s pace). The TravelCard Plus isn’t quite as powerful as our top pick, but it still has plenty of juice to charge most devices (or recharge itself) at a steady clip.

This model lacks passthrough charging, but the built-in USB-C cable can pass up to 15 W to connected devices, and the built-in Lightning cable can pass up to 10 W.

We measured up to 7 W while recharging the power bank from either its USB-C PD port or built-in USB-C cable. That’s pretty sluggish compared to our top pick (although, since the capacity is so much lower, it still only takes about an hour to fully recharge).

It’ll keep your phone from dying (but might not fully charge it). With a rated capacity of 3,000 mAh, the TravelCard Plus is well within our desired range for battery life. Although it doesn’t have quite enough capacity to bring most smartphones from 0% to 100% charged, it can easily top off or revive a dying device.

It’s super lightweight. Weighing just 2.7 ounces—roughly akin to five sheets of notebook paper—the TravelCard Plus is one of the lightest power banks we’ve tested.

It’s sleek yet sturdy. The TravelCard Plus is a tad bigger than a typical credit card (3.6 inches by 2.4 inches), and about as thick as four credit cards stacked (0.3 inch). Not only is it slimmer than most power banks we’ve tested, but it’s sturdily built and has a sleek look with rounded edges and a polished-metal finish. The built-in cables are dainty, but they showed no signs of tearing in our testing, and they slide smoothly in and out of their holsters.

It’s easy to use. Like our other picks, this power bank has just one button (to turn the unit on and off) and four battery-status indicator lights.

It’s well-supported. Despite a relatively small web presence, TravelCard backs its products with a two-year warranty, and we’ve had generally good experiences with its customer support.

It’s relatively affordable. Like our top pick, the TravelCard Plus doesn’t come with a wall charger or other accessories, but it’s nearly half the price of that model. Plus, most people likely already have a compatible charger that came with their phone or another device, and don’t need a surplus.

It comes in a wide range of colors. Most models we tested come in just one or two colors, but the TravelCard Plus has eight options: black, white, silver, gray, red, teal, blue, or indigo.

If funds are limited, and you can stand to carry a separate charging cable or two, the Scosche GoBat 10K is a less-expensive alternative to our top pick.

It’s comparable in terms of power, capacity, and build quality. And while it’s chunkier in shape, and lacks built-in cables, it’s also a bit smaller and lighter.

It’s supremely powerful. This power bank edged out the rest of the bunch in terms of input, and it was also one of the best performers when it came to output. We measured up to 25 W flowing into its USB-C PD port, up to 20 watts out of its USB-C PD port, and up to 17 watts from its USB-A port.

It has great battery life. Just like our top pick, the Scosche has a rated capacity of 10,000 mAh, so you can fully charge a phone up to three times.

It weighs less than a roll of quarters. At just 6.4 ounces, the Scosche is a couple ounces lighter than our top pick, though still not as light as the TravelCard Plus.

It’s sturdily built. Encased in a hard plastic shell, the Scosche is relatively rugged, and it has a sturdy build quality.

It’s comfortable to hold (and easy on the eyes). This power bank’s blocky shape makes it a bit tougher to slip into small pockets or purses, but it’s still quite compact, and its rounded edges feel comfortable in the hand.

The power bank has a sophisticated look overall, though it only comes in black (we’d also prefer the company’s logo on top of the unit to be a bit subtler, but it’s not super splashy).

It has a great warranty. Scosche is a brand we trust, and its three-year warranty (longer than our other picks’ two-year warranties) gives you plenty of time to use your power bank and ensure it’s not a dud.

It’s relatively affordable. This model costs nearly half as much as our top pick, as of this writing, and it comes with a USB-C charging cable (which is handy if you don’t already have one or want a backup).

If you need maximum power and don’t mind a less-streamlined unit that costs a bit more than our picks: Get the Mophie Powerstation Plus . Offering slightly more power than any of our picks, it has a built-in USB-C PD cable (up to 30 W output), built-in Lightning output cable (up to 18 W output), and USB-C PD port (up to 20 W output and 23 W input) with passthrough charging.

Like our top pick, it has a 10,000 mAh capacity rating and weighs 8.4 ounces (just over half a pound). Also, it’s backed by a two-year warranty, and comes from a brand we trust.

Unfortunately, it only comes in black, and it's the costliest model we tested ($80 at this writing, with no included accessories). Plus, while it has a generally good look and feel, its built-in cables are maddeningly difficult to slide in and out of their holsters. For some people, though, the extra power might make these sacrifices worthwhile.

If you want a power bank that doubles as a wall charger: Get the Anker PowerCore Fusion 10000 . In addition to its handy fold-up input plug, it has a USB-C PD port and USB-A port to charge up to two devices with 20 W of combined output power. And like our top and budget picks, it has a rated capacity of 10,000 mAh.

It comes in either black or white, its plastic exterior has a pleasantly grippy texture, and convenient battery-status lights tell you when it needs to be recharged. It’s ruggedly built and backed by a brand we trust, and it has an ample 18-month warranty.

On the downside, it’s pricier than most of our picks ($50 at this writing), and you’ll need to supply your own charging cables. It’s also significantly bigger and heavier than our picks, weighing a whopping 9.6 ounces. But if you want more versatility, and can live with the extra bulk, it’s a great option.

If you want a wide range of color options and can live without built-in cables: Get the Zendure SuperMini 20W . A former top pick, it has a USB-C PD port with up to 19 W output and 20 W input, as well as a USB-A port with up to 17 W output. It also has passthrough charging and a rated capacity of 10,000 mAh. Weighing just 6.4 ounces, its rounded edges make it easy to hold and slip into a pocket. It is intuitive to use and ruggedly built, and thick ridges on its outer shell make it easy to grip (or locate at the bottom of a cluttered bag).

Zendure backs this model with a two-year warranty, and we’ve generally had good experiences with its customer support. It costs more than most of our picks ($48 at this writing), but it comes with a USB-C cable and it’s available in more colors than any of our picks, including red, white, silver, blue, light green, light purple, and light pink.

If you want recycled materials and packaging and can live without built-in cables: Get the Nimble Champ . It has a USB-A port (up to 16 W output) and USB-C PD port (up to 18 W output and 16 W input) with passthrough charging, and a capacity rating of 10,000 mAh.

Weighing just 6.5 ounces, it’s sturdily built and has a chunky yet compact shape. It’s easy to use, comes from a reputable brand, and has a two-year warranty. Sadly, it's more expensive than most of our picks ($50 at this writing), and the charging cable that comes with it only supports up to about 12 W. But it’s one of the only options we tested containing (at minimum) 72% post-consumer recycled plastic, and with entirely plastic-free packaging.

It also comes with a free e-waste recycling kit (we have more tips on how to recycle used electronics here ), making it a slightly more sustainable option overall.

If you want a power bank with replaceable batteries and don't mind sacrificing some power: Get the Panasonic BQ-CC87 . Powered by up to four AA or AAA rechargeable batteries , this power bank has an unusual design that allows you to reuse it indefinitely—making it more sustainable than most power banks, which become useless when the internal battery wears out.

The BQ-CC87 is fairly lightweight (around 3.1 ounces with four AA batteries inserted), and it comes in two colors (black or white). It's made by a reputable company and backed by a two-year warranty. And costing just $25 at this writing, it’s the least expensive model we tested.

On the downside, its charging ports are less powerful than those of other models we tested (we measured just 5 W flowing into its Micro-USB port and out of its USB-A port), and it has only about 2,550 mAh of battery life (with four AA batteries inserted) to top off a phone or other small device.

Lastly, this unit has a blockier shape than most models we tested, and the plastic cover is relatively flimsy (we strongly recommend stowing it in a pocket or bag organizer to keep the batteries from popping out of their slots in transit). But if you’re someone who already uses rechargeable AA and/or AAA batteries, this could be a versatile addition to your charging setup.

Hyper announced the HyperJuice 5,000mAh Capsule Power Bank with Cables at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 2024, and we’re planning to test it against our current picks. Its unique design includes a 1-foot USB-C cable on one end, a 3-foot USB-C cable on the other, and a built-in cable clip to keep them tidily wrapped up. It can charge up to two devices at once, or charge a single device while recharging itself, and it has a rated capacity of 5,000 mAh. It’s set to sell for $50 when it becomes available in fall 2024.

Several other companies—including Anker, Belkin, ESR, Mophie, and more—have recently released power banks with Qi2 wireless charging capabilities , which allows compatible devices to take advantage of the new standard’s faster charging speeds and secure magnetic connection. We plan to test as many Qi2 power banks as we can get our hands on in the coming months, and we’ll add our testing notes to our guide to the best wireless portable chargers and power banks as soon as we can.

This is not a comprehensive list of every power bank we’ve tested. We’ve removed models that no longer meet our requirements or are discontinued.

The Anker PowerCore Fusion 5000 is our former pick for people who want a power bank that doubles as a wall charger. It has a rated capacity of 5,000 mAh, a handy fold-up plug, and a pocketable size and shape. However, its charging ports (two USB-A output ports and a Micro-USB input port) are much less powerful than those on our top and budget picks.

We tried the Clutch V3 Lightning , Clutch V3 USB-C , and Clutch Max in our latest round of testing, and all three were disappointing. Despite costing nearly twice as much as comparable models, their built-in cables are flimsy (we literally ripped one out of its socket), and the Clutch Max failed to charge past 25% (we gave up after three attempts).

The Mophie Powerstation Hub is a power bank that can also be used as either a wall charger or wireless charging pad. However, its rated capacity (6,000 mAh) is significantly lower than our top and budget picks’ ratings, and its angular shape makes it less comfortable to hold or slip into a pocket. Plus, it costs $100 at this writing, which is far pricier than comparable models.

The Mophie Powerstation PD is super lightweight, weighing just 5.2 ounces, and has a pleasantly pocketable shape and grippy texture. However, it offers significantly less capacity (6,700 mAh) than our top pick , which is just a few ounces heavier.

The Mophie Powerstation Plus (USB-C) and Mophie Powerstation Plus Mini (USB-C) are sleek-looking and lightweight. But the built-in USB-C cables are especially tricky to get back into their slots, which we think would drive most people up the wall.

The RAVPower 10000mAh Power Bank (RP-PB186 ) is on a par with our budget pick in terms of its capacity (10,000 mAh) and charging options (one USB-C PD port and one USB-A port), but it has rough ridges at each of its seams that make it less comfortable to hold.

The TG90° Portable Charger 6000mAh External Battery Pack is one of the smallest and lightest power banks we’ve tested, weighing just 4.1 ounces, and its capacity rating (6,000 mAh) is higher than those of power banks we’ve tested that are twice its size. As a major added convenience, it has two built-in cables (USB-C and Lightning) that slide in and out of their holsters easily, as well as a USB-C input port. It’s also relatively sturdy and well built. Despite these attributes, however, we don’t feel comfortable recommending this model without long-term testing; aside from its Amazon storefront , the company has no web presence.

The Tronsmart Trim 10000mAh USB-C Power Bank has the same capacity rating (10,000 mAh) as our top and budget picks, plus it adds a Micro-USB input port. However, we don’t think an extra (and slower-charging) input option offers a significant benefit for most people, and we prefer the look and feel of our picks.

This article was edited by Ben Keough and Erica Ogg.

Meet your guide

Sarah Witman

Sarah Witman is a senior staff writer who reports on powering and charging technology for Wirecutter. She previously worked as a writer, editor, and fact checker for several science magazines. Though she researches and tests chargers for a living, her phone battery is usually low.

Further reading

The Best Power Banks for Laptops With USB-C

by Sarah Witman

The Anker 747 PowerCore 26K is our favorite power bank for charging modern laptops as fast as possible while you’re on the go—no need to hunt for a power outlet.

The Best USB Phone Charger

by Sarah Witman and Nick Guy

No matter what kinds of USB-powered devices you own, we have picks to power them at their fastest charging speeds.

The Best Portable Solar Battery Charger

The Allpowers SP012 Solar Panel 100W is the best choice for charging a phone and other essential devices in the great outdoors.

The Best Portable Power Station

Our top pick for three years running, the Jackery Explorer 1000 is the best portable power station for going off the grid or prepping for an emergency.

The best portable chargers and power banks in 2024

Here are the best portable chargers to keep your devices juiced up while you're on the go

• Best overall
• Best for USB-C
• Best lightweight
• Best compact
• How to choose
• How we test

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best Anker 4. Best for USB-C 5. Best lightweight 6. Best compact 7. How to choose 8. How we test

The best portable chargers keep your electronics powered while you're out and about.

These handy peripherals can charge a wide range of devices, including the best phones , the best tablets , the best Kindles and even the best laptops . Because you'll inevitably find yourself with low battery life when outdoors, you'll need a reliable portable charger to keep your electronics going. Not having one could prove to be extremely inconvenient.

We've done a battery (pun intended) of tests on some of the most highly-rated portable chargers on the market. To that end, we've pulled from both big brands and popular competitors. While these specific portable chargers regularly appear on bestseller lists, they're all different in several important ways.

We've got these best portable chargers ranked in order of what we would buy, with shoutouts for the best portable charger, our favorite compact charger, and the best portable charger for USB-C.

Tony is a computing writer at Tom’s Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iPadOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on Twitter. His work has appeared in publications such as Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.

The quick list

Here's a quick overview of the best portable chargers you can buy right now based on our testing and reviews.

The best portable charger overall

The INIU 10000mAh is one of the best portable chargers we've tested. If you're looking for the best power efficiency for your on-the-go lifestyle, this is it because you'll spend very little time charging your phone to get back a lot of battery.

Read more below

The best Anker portable charger

The Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 is heavier than the INIU 10000 but it still charges phones extremely fast. In fact, you'll want to buy it if you intend on filling your phone all the way up to 100% because it does it faster than everything else we've tested.

The best portable charger for USB-C

While INIU's 20-watt brick is a bit heavy (the second heaviest on this list), its dual-function USB-C port makes it a clear favorite for one of the best portable chargers for those charging with the reversible port. This way, you can both charge it and charge other devices with the same USB-C cables.

The best lightweight portable charger

Anker's 20,000 mAh brick is lighter than comparable bricks you'll want to get it because its USB-C ports offer speedier charges for all of your devices. And since it uses Anker's IQ charging tech, it will automatically detect what devices are connected and will optimize their charging.

The best compact portable charger

The PowerCore 5000 is one of the most compact portable chargers you can find, occupying very little space thanks to its cylindrical design. Don't let its small size fool you because it still packs a sizable 50,000 mAh battery inside it.

The best portable chargers you can buy today

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1. INIU 10000mAh Portable Charger

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

A shocking upset for the top slot, Anker (the typical standard-bearer) loses to INIU's 10000 mAh charger. This brick is one of the best portable chargers. Not only did its charging times and speeds sit near the top of the chart but it's got 2 USB-A output ports to the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000's single USB-A charging port. And since that second port can be the difference between powering a secondary device while you charge your phone (or helping a friend out when they need it), we're giving the INIU the overall nod.

For a brand we're not that familiar with, this INIU charger stood up in 15-minute and 1-hour timed charging (at 22%, 78%), with times that were within 1-2 percentage points ahead of the PowerCore Slim's times. It only failed to beat the Anker to fill a complete phone once, putting up a 2-hour time, four minutes behind the Anker. Both chargers refilled about 2.2-2.25 iPhone 12s, so it's practically a tie. INIU also has a longer warranty: its 3-year plan is twice as long as Anker's 18-month window.

2. Anker PowerCore Slim 10000

Our number 2 pick (still one of the best portable chargers) is the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000, which is a bit heavier than the INIU 10000 pack (7.3 ounces to 6.9 ounces). But it would have taken the top slot had it had that second USB-A output port. That's because its charging times were so close to the INIU brick (21% in 15 minutes, 76% in an hour) and its overall time to fill an iPhone 12 was 4 minutes shorter, at 1 hour and 56 minutes.

But it's so close to the INIU that we have to keep it as the #2-ranked portable charger. These bricks are so close, practically within margins of error in testing. If you only need to charge one device at a time, and the sale pricing makes the Slim 10000 that much cheaper than the INIU, go for it.

3. INIU 20W 20000 mAh power bank

USB-C is no longer the port of the future, it's the port of the day. And while INIU's 20-watt brick is a bit heavy (the second heaviest on this list), its dual-function USB-C port makes it a clear favorite for one of the best portable chargers for those charging with the reversible port. This way, you can both charge it and charge other devices with the same USB-C cables, and you've also got two other USB-A ports for recharging other devices.

On top of that, it turned in the best performance in the 1-hour charging window, bringing our dead iPhone 12 to 81% of its charge. And its 1-hour and 57-minute time to bring that iPhone to a full charge is the second-best of the pack, only off by a minute from the PowerCore Slim 10000. Its high capacity of 20000 mAh also meant it refueled an iPhone more than most of these chargers, with 4.78 iPhone 12 refills.

4. Anker PowerCore Essential 20000mAh

Anker's 20,000 mAh brick is lighter than comparable bricks by a few ounces, but its charging scores are consistently behind by 3 to 4%. Its other win is seen in its USB-C input for faster charging of the brick, but since it only has USB-A output, you're going to be refueling at a lower rate than you might like. It also has one fewer USB-A output than competitors.

All that said, though, we could see an individual finding this to be the right charger for their needs. Anyone who is looking to primarily charge their own phone, and wants a high-capacity pack so they need to refuel less frequently will appreciate the more-portable weight. All you need is a pocket big enough to hold it, and you'll have juice for days.

5. Anker PowerCore 5000

Compared to the higher-rated 5,000 mAh charger on our list (the Poweradd Slim 2) Anker PowerCore 5000 lags behind on speeds. It only refueled 62% of the iPhone 12 in the first hour of charging, which is the second-lowest score on the list.

The best aspect of the PowerCore 5000 is that it hit 19% after 15 minutes, which is 7% above the Miady power banks. There's nothing particularly wrong with this charger, but nothing impressive either. If you got it as a present, you might hold onto it and get a ton of use out of it. If it goes on sale for a deep discount, we wouldn't be against considering it. But at the end of the day, it's low on our list for a reason.

How to choose the best portable charger

Finding the right charger capacity: You'll often see a four to five-digit number, with the letters mAh following it, and that's your first big indicator of how much this charger is right for you. If you're constantly refueling your phone and other gadgets, go for at least 10,000mAh. For each extra device you charge, add at least 5,000 to the mAh rating you're looking for. Just need to prevent your device from hitting 0 on late nights out? You'll be good with something in the under 5,000 mAh rating, provided you remember to charge it often.

Be a ports authority: If you hold onto your devices forever, and don't already know what a USB-C port is, you can probably just get whatever fits your price. But if you're the kind who wants faster charging, look for a brick that has PD in its name. The best portable chargers, at least for my money, charge devices the fastest and use the Power Delivery (PD) standard. Also, their USB-C ports mean you can refuel these power banks with the same cords used to charge modern laptops.

How we test the best portable chargers

You want a charger that was put through the rigors of refueling, so we did just that. With timers in hand, we kept draining an iPhone 12 and then timed how much time it took for each power bank to refuel those phones. Along the way, we checked out how much of said iPhone 12 (the same one) were refueled after 15 and 60 minutes. We kept that iPhone at 100% brightness the whole time.

Our ranking also factored in the portability and designs of each model, as especially small and pocket-friendly chargers can't physically store as many mAh of battery power as their larger brethren. Similarly, the smaller a charger is, the less likely it has more than two ports (one for gaining a charge, the other for giving power).

Those looking to keep their tech protected throughout each and every charge should check out our guide to the best surge protectors .

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Tony is a computing writer at Tom’s Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on X/Twitter. His non-nerdy pursuits involve attending Hard Rock/Heavy Metal concerts and going to NYC bars with friends and colleagues. His work has appeared in publications such as Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.

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• Codeape Anker has 2 usb a output ports (even says so in your description)... -ve for that device says just one usb a output port... Reply
• Marcel Bro Best power banks and chargers of 2023? And most of them only output USB A?! This article is heavily outdated. Reply
• Arctic Strix This article was either done by a bad Ai, written within 5min by someone who searched for the most bought battery banks on Amazon, or reused from several years ago. The "best portable charger" is not a 10,000mAh USB-A 15W charger for $20, that's just one of the most purchased on Amazon. One of the best portable power banks is going to be the Anker 737 or the Ugreen 145w. They both feature two type C outputs and one type A output, the Anker 737 being able to output up to 140W compared to Ugreen maxing at 100W. Anker has a 24000mAh battery and PD3.1 complaint and Ugreen is 25000mAh with PD3.0; they both are compatible with all charging standards. These might be a bit overkill for the general user, but they are among the best, if not the best portable power banks. Reply
• View All 3 Comments

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The 7 Best Power Banks to Keep Your Gadgets Going

Keep your gadgets powered up, wherever you go.

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The good news is you can prepare for (and avoid) these stressful scenarios by investing in a portable power bank. Also known as mobile chargers or battery packs, these nifty gadgets serve as a lifeline to your dying electronics by recharging battery power when needed. Even if they’re not a daily necessity, power banks are a handy tool to have on standby when traveling , adventuring outdoors, or on busy days when you’re running around. They’re also beneficial during emergencies , blackouts, or natural disasters.

Deciding to buy a power bank is simple. The challenge comes with choosing which one to buy. Power bank models differ in charging speed, battery capacity, connectivity type, and shape and size. Some also come with features like the ability to solar charge, connect to a wall outlet, or charge larger electronics like tablets and computers. Read on for our breakdown of what to consider before shopping followed by the best power banks we recommend.

Best Power Banks

• Best Overall: INIU Portable Charger
• Budget Choice: Anker PowerCore Slim Portable Charger
• Large Battery Capacity: Mophie Power Boost XL Portable Charger
• Best for Emergencies: BioLite Charge 40 PD Power Bank
• Wall Charger Compatible: Anker 521 Power Bank

What to Consider

Before buying a portable power bank, think about how much battery capacity you’ll need, how fast you want your gadgets to charge, and the electronics you’ll be charging. At a baseline, consider each for its connectivity, capacity, power output, and added features. Doing so points you in the right direction to find a power bank that aligns with your lifestyle and ensures you’re able to charge your gear wherever and whenever you need to.

Connectivity

Connectivity determines exactly how your electronics interface with or connect to various power banks to recharge. This typically involves input ports for charging your gadgets, such as USB (or USB-A), USB-C, micro-USB, or Lightning ports, as well as output ports on the power bank itself, such as USB-A or USB-C ports. Connection types vary across all portable power banks, cell phones, computers, headphones, tablets, and electronics brands. It’s vital to determine the type of connection your devices have to make sure the power bank you buy can support that specific connection.

Most battery packs come with at least one standard USB port for power output and are compatible with USB-C, micro-USB, and Lightning connectors. Always double-check which type of connector your electronics are compatible with for charging before buying a portable power bank. You can also buy an inexpensive set of USB adapters to avoid any connection issues.

Battery Capacity

The best battery capacity depends on what type of gadgets you want to charge, how long you need power for, and how often you want to recharge your power bank. Typically, the higher the battery capacity, the more expensive the power bank. It’s key to opt for a power bank with sufficient capacity to meet your charging needs, especially if you frequently rely on fast charging, recharge large devices, or need to charge several devices at once.

Power bank battery capacity is most often measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). Low capacity power banks—best for small devices like smartphones and Bluetooth headphones—range from 1000mAh to 5000mAh. Medium capacity power banks—best for multiple smartphone recharges or tablets—range from 6000mAh to 15000mAh. High-capacity power banks—best for extended travel or computers—range from 16000mAh to 30000mAh and above.

Charging Time

Power output determines the overall power of your portable battery pack. In other words, the stronger the power output, the faster your devices will charge. We recommend looking for power banks with higher wattage (W) or a USB PD designation, which means the power bank is fast-charging certified.

Most portable power banks on the market range from 10W to 100W. It’s also important to make note if your devices are compatible with fast-charging power banks (USB PD) so you can take advantage of faster charge times for your electronics. These types of portable power banks are most often associated with USB-C ports and connectors.

Features and Size

All portable power banks come in different shapes and sizes, and with different features. For example, some folks may care more about the size of the power bank they’ll need to lug around versus battery capacity. Others may want features like kickstands, solar charging capabilities, and adaptors and connectors included with purchase.

How We Selected

In narrowing down our list of the best portable power banks, we relied on our own testing in the field as well as extensive research of products currently on the market. To best inform our selections, we looked to trusted brands such as Anker, Mophie, and BioLite and considered overall price points, product specifications—particularly battery capacity, power output, connectivity options, and weight. We also took into account special features like stands and extra accessories that come included and add value.

INIU Portable Charger

With 10,000mAh of battery power, a lightweight design, and a price tag around $45, the INIU portable charge ranks at the top. This power bank features lightning-fast charging with one USB-C and two USB ports, meaning you can charge up to three devices at once.

This portable power bank is best for charging small electronics like smartphones, tablets, and Bluetooth devices. An LED display also makes it easy to see exactly how much battery capacity is left—that way you can make sure your power bank doesn’t run out of juice to recharge your devices.

Anker PowerCore Slim Portable Charger

A total steal: You can snag this powerful and sleek portable charger for under $30. Anker is known for its high-performance battery packs at an affordable price point. That includes its PowerCore Slim charger, which boasts 10,000 mAh battery capacity and weighs just half a pound. Equipped with a fast-charge USB-C output port, this battery pack promises enough power to recharge newer iPhone models several times and Samsung devices over 1.5 times.

INIU 25,000 mAh Power Bank

For those times you need heavy-duty power—from long road trips to prolonged outages to charging a computer back to full power—a high-capacity battery pack is a must. The INIU 25,000 mAH can charge just about any device for several days. This charger is also ideal for powering up your computer on long-haul flights, airport delays, or times you won’t have access to a standard AC power outlet.

The INIU 25,000 mAH power bank will also recharge your devices quickly thanks to its 65W power output. If you’re open to spending a little more for rapid charging time, we also recommend the UGREEN 145W Power Bank .

Mophie Power Boost XL Portable Charger

Recognized as an industry-leading power bank brand, Mophie has established the benchmark for excellence—including the Power Boost XL. Also known as the Powerstation XL, this portable charger packs a punch for its large capacity (20,000 mAh) and versatility.

While it may not be the most budget-friendly option among power banks, its slightly higher price tag is justified by a quality build, impressive capacity, and lightning-fast charging capability. Plus, this portable power bank is designed with 50 percent post-consumer recycled plastics.

BioLite Charge 40 PD Power Bank

You don’t want to be stuck without power in an emergency, like an unexpected storm or natural disaster. For this reason, BioLite stands out among the pack for its durable design, notable power output, and solar charging compatibility.

This battery pack is loved by outdoor enthusiasts for its non-slip rubber shell that protects from wear and tear in nature. Best for repowering small electronics, the BioLite 40D power bank can charge smartphones up to two times to full battery. You can also recharge the BioLite charger using an 18W solar panel.

When it comes to weight-to-power ratio, the INIU Portable Charger gives you all the power you need without dragging you down. At a mere seven ounces, this portable charger is the lightest and slimmest of the lineup. With only 15W of power output, you may have to wait a bit longer for your devices to charge, especially if they have dwindling battery life.

However, the $30 price point and lightweight design make this a competitive power bank for days you want to bring along a little extra power in your pocket.

Anker 521 Power Bank

Want to cut down on the number of power cords you have to carry around? The 2-in-1 Anker 521 comes with a fold-out AC plug so you can use it both as a regular wall charger and portable power bank. Equipped with an internal 5,000 mAh battery, this charger is powerful enough to juice up small gadgets on the go and serve as a regular charger in your home or office.

It’s extremely powerful and compact too. This charger fits in the palm of your hand but boasts a power output of 45W—which means faster charging without unnecessary weight.

Erica Zazo (she/they) is a Chicago-based freelance writer covering outdoor news, gear, and guides for Backpacker Magazine , Outside, and more. She’s a big fan of urban nature, exploring lesser-known trails and towns, and the Midwest. Follow her adventures on Instagram: @onecurioustrvlr .

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The 18 Best Portable Chargers for All of Your Devices

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Best Overall Nimble Champ (Series 2) Read more

The Upgrade Pick Anker 737 Power Bank Read more

Best for Phones Anker Nano Power Bank Read more

Best for Tablets Einova Eggtronic Ultra Fast Power Bank (63W) Read more

Portable devices have a Murphy’s law–like ability to run out of power at the least convenient moment: as you step on the bus, right in the middle of an important meeting, or just as you get comfortable on the couch and press Play. But if you keep a battery-powered portable charger handy, all those situations are a thing of the past.

There are hundreds of portable battery packs, and picking one can be confusing. To help, we've spent years working our way through all of them. This obsession started when Scott Gilbertson lived off-grid in a vintage RV , powered primarily by solar panels. But even if you're not living in an off-grid solar setup, good power banks will come in handy. These are our favorites. Be sure to check out our Best MagSafe Power Banks guide for Apple-specific portable chargers, and our Best Portable Power Stations guide if you need more power.

Updated April 2024: We added power banks from Raycon, Sharge, and Fans Dreams, among others, removed several sold-out or discontinued chargers, and updated prices throughout.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com and our print magazine (if you'd like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Overall

The Nimble Champ topped this list for years, and now its successor is taking over by combining everything that made the original so good and bringing some welcome improvements. At 6.2 ounces, it's one of the lightest on the market. It's smaller than a deck of cards and can deliver 20 watts to charge two devices at once via a USB-C port on either end. While Scott used the original for years, the new version has only just landed, but so far, so good. It feels durable, comes in a snazzy new range of speckled color finishes, and has a bright lanyard loop that makes for easy carrying and helps you pick it out of your backpack. The Pro version is bigger but doubles the capacity (to 20,000 mAh) and has a similar design with two USB-C ports that go up to 65 watts. There's also a smaller version with a 5,200-mAh capacity that tops out at 15 watts.

The other reason we like Nimble best is because of its environmental efforts . Batteries are not environmentally benign. They use lithium, cobalt, and other rare metals whose supply chains are environmentally and socially questionable at best. But Nimble's use of bioplastics and plastic-free minimal packaging at least reduces the environmental impact where it can be reduced. This new version uses 90 percent recycled plastic (up 25 from the original) and comes in smaller plastic-free packaging. Nimble includes a 3.3-foot USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

Two USB-C ports (20 W). Can charge most smartphones two or three times (10,000 mAh).

The Upgrade Pick

For folks who don’t mind paying for quality, the Anker 737 is a versatile and reliable beast with a whopping 24,000-mAh capacity. With Power Delivery 3.1 support, this power bank can send or receive up to 140 watts to charge phones, tablets, and even laptops. You can charge it from zero to full within an hour. It’s relatively compact for its capacity, but it weighs almost 1.4 pounds. Tap the circular power button on the side once, and the snazzy digital display shows the remaining battery percentage; tap it again, and you get stats including the temperature, total output, cycles, and more. The screen also displays watts in or out when you plug something in and a remaining time estimate based on the current rate. It fast-charged everything I tested it with, and you can charge three devices at once without a problem.

Two USB-C ports (140 W) and one USB-A (18 W). Can charge most phones at least four times (24,000 mAh).

Best for Phones

If you want a compact charger in a fun color that simply slots into the bottom of your phone for a top-up, Anker’s dinky charger is tough to beat. This power bank has a built-in rotating USB-C or Lightning connector (MFi certified), so you don’t need to worry about cables. It packs 5,000 mAh of energy (enough to fully charge most phones). I tested the USB-C version with several Android phones and found it stayed in place, enabling me to use my phone more or less as normal. There’s a USB-C port for recharging the power bank, and it comes with a short cable. It might not be a good pick if you use a thick case.

One USB-C (22.5 W) or Lightning (12 W) connector and one USB-C port for charging only. Can charge most phones once (5,000 mAh).

Best for Tablets

WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu has been enjoying his time toting around this 20,000-mAh charger. It's slim, fits easily into the padded sleeve of most backpacks, and has enough capacity to recharge an 11-inch tablet twice from zero percent. It's capable of dishing out 45 watts of power for fast charging via the USB-C port, and 18 watts from the middle USB-A port. In a pinch, you can use it to recharge a laptop (as long as it's not a power-sucking machine like a MacBook Pro). It has a lovely fabric material on the exterior, and there's an LED that shows how much juice is left in the tank.

Two USB-A ports (18 W and 10.5 W) and one USB-C (45 W). Can charge most tablets two times (20,000 mAh).

Brenda Stolyar

Julian Chokkattu

Aarian Marshall

Best for Laptops

Goal Zero updated its Sherpa line of portable chargers with better wireless charging capabilities: 15 watts, up from 5 watts in the previous model. I tested the Sherpa AC, which features two USB-C ports (60-watt and 100-watt), two USB-A ports, and a 100-watt AC port for those devices that need a pronged plug. It strikes a good balance between power storage (93 watt-hours in my drain test) and weight (2 pounds). It’s enough to charge up my Dell XPS 13 almost twice.

You get a nice color LCD display that shows how much power you've got left, how many watts are coming in, how many are going out, and a rough guess as to how much longer the battery will last (if conditions remain the same). Recharge times vary depending on whether or not you have the Sherpa wall charger (sold separately), but I was able to get it to recharge in under three hours no matter what power source I used. There's also an 8-mm port on the back for attaching a solar panel if you have one. The Sherpa is not cheap, but if you don't need the AC out and can live with a single USB-C (100-watt out, 60-watt in), the Sherpa PD is otherwise the same thing for $200.

Two USB-C ports (60 W and 100 W), two USB-A (12 W), and one AC (100 W). Qi wireless charging (15 W). Can charge most laptops one to two times (25,600 mAh).

Best for Fast Charging

Ugreen's new charger is, as the name suggests, a 145-watt charger with a 25,000-mAh battery. It's surprisingly compact for the power it provides, although at 1.1 pounds, it's definitely not ultralight. There are two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. What sets the Ugreen apart is that you can actually draw 145 watts while charging. That works out to one USB-C port at 100 W and the other at 45 W. Very few other batteries we've tested are capable of that feat, and none that I know of at this size. If you want to charge fast, this is the power bank for you (although it's worth noting that reviews around the web suggest it doesn't support Samsung's fast-charging tech). There's a small LED readout on the side of the battery with the current charge state of the battery. I'd have liked to see some charging info on that screen as well, but that's a small quibble with what's an otherwise outstanding option if you need to keep your laptop charged up wherever you are.

Two USB-C ports (100 W and 45 W) and one USB-A. Can charge most phones around five times or a laptop once (25,000 mAh).

Best Looking Power Bank

I am a sucker for Sharge’s transparent designs and cyberpunk aesthetic, but this prism-shaped power bank is more than just a pretty face. With a maximum output of 170 watts, a whopping 24,000-mAh capacity, and an IP66 rating for water resistance (fine in the rain, but best not to submerge), the Shargeek 170 has form and function. The smart display shows battery life as a percentage, time remaining, and the input or output in watts. It supports many standards, including Power Delivery 3.1, Quick Charge 4.0, and PPS, and it fast-charged most of the devices I tested, including the iPhone 15 Pro, Pixel 8, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, and MacBook Air. You can simultaneously charge three devices at fast speeds, and the box includes a braided USB-C cable and a wee velvety bag. It can also recharge completely in an hour via USB-C at up to 140 watts (with the right cable and charger). The only thing I don’t like is the relatively high price.

Two USB-C ports (165 W) and one USB-A (30 W). Can charge most phones around five times or a laptop once (24,000 mAh).

Folding Wireless Charging

With an unusual design that features a fold-up wireless charging stand for phones and a charging spot behind it for your wireless earbuds case (if it supports Qi wireless charging), plus a USB-C port to plug in a third device, the Satechi Duo is a handy power bank to have in your bag. It has a 10,000-mAh capacity with LEDs to show how much juice is left. The downside is that it is slow, offering up to 10 watts of wireless charging power for phones (7.5 watts for iPhones), 5 watts for earbuds, and 10 watts from the USB-C port. It takes three hours to refill the battery with an 18-watt charger.

One USB-C (10 W) and two Qi wireless charging spots (up to 10 W). Can charge most phones one to two times (10,000 mAh).

Best Qi2 Portable Charger

The latest entry in Anker’s MagGo range is the first Qi2 power bank we have tested. The Qi2 wireless charging standard borrows elements of Apple’s MagSafe, enabling supported phones to connect with perfect alignment using a ring of magnets. Qi2 brings faster wireless charging rates of up to 15 watts, but is also backward compatible, so older Qi devices can still charge, albeit more slowly. This compact portable charger has a handy kickstand, a two-way USB-C port on the left edge, and a power button with an LED display showing remaining power as a percentage of charge time on the right. It can accommodate Qi2 or MagSafe phones in portrait or landscape orientation (it works with Apple’s StandBy mode ). I tested with an iPhone 14 Pro and got 25 percent in around 20 minutes. Despite a large capacity, it falls short of two full charges for your iPhone when charging wirelessly. You might squeeze a little more if you plug in the short USB-C cable provided.

One USB-C port (27 W) and Qi2 wireless charging (15 W). Can charge most smartphones one or two times (10,000 mAh).

Best MagSafe

One of the biggest problems we run into with portable chargers is forgetting to charge them, so this clever gadget from Anker is one of our favorite iPhone accessories . Ostensibly, it’s a wireless charging stand with MagSafe support that includes a charging spot for your AirPods on the base. The clever part, earning it a place here, is the detachable portable charger that slides out of the stand when you need to go. It stays stuck to the back of any MagSafe iPhone (and Android phones using MagSafe cases ) and continues to charge it wirelessly. You can also recharge the power bank or charge another device with it via the USB-C port. The Anker MagGo 622 ($50) is a good alternative if you just want a MagSafe power bank, and it has a wee foldable stand built in. We recommend some alternatives in our Best MagSafe Power Banks guide .

One USB-C (12 W) and Qi wireless charging (7.5 W). Can charge most phones to between 50 and 80 percent (5,000 mAh).

Best for Apple Watch

Remembering to take a power bank with you for a night away is a real achievement, but what about your Apple Watch ? It may be one of the best smartwatches , but the battery rarely lasts beyond a full day. This compact, black power bank from Belkin has a soft-touch finish and an Apple Watch charger built in at one end. Even better, it can fast-charge your Apple Watch, and there’s enough capacity to charge your iPhone or AirPods via USB-C at the same time, making this the perfect portable charger to stow away in your bag or pocket. You get a 1-foot USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

One USB-C port (20 W) and one Apple Watch fast charger (7.5 W). Can charge most smartphones two or three times (10,000 mAh).

Best for Outdoors

If you are hiking, camping, cycling, or running, the BioLite is a handy companion. This durable power bank is lightweight, a good size to slip into a pocket, and has a nice grippy textured finish. The yellow plastic makes it easy to spot in a bag or crowded tent, and it indicates the port end, making it easier to plug in when the light is fading. The smallest size is enough to fully charge most phones, and the USB-C handles 18 watts in or out. Two additional USB-A out ports let you simultaneously charge up multiple devices, though you will probably want to size up to the 10,000-mAh Charge 40 ($60) or the 20,000-mAh Charge 80 ($80) if you plan on doing that.

Two USB-A ports (18 W) and one USB-C (18 W). Can charge most phones at least once (6,000 mAh).

Best Wall Charger Power Bank

Hybrid devices are great when space is limited. This wall charger and power bank in one is a solid hybrid option. WIRED reviewer Eric Ravenscraft raved about it, and after testing, I have to agree. The display shows you what percentage of the 10,000-mAh capacity remains, there's a USB-C port, a USB-A port, and two built-in cables (USB-C and Lightning). But that’s not all. Turn it on its side, and you have a magnetic wireless charger. There’s even a wee slide-out phone stand and a strap for easy carrying. While you can technically charge five devices at once, it’s awkward, and the battery will die quickly. Still, this is a handy multipurpose power bank to have in your bag. You can refill it by plugging it straight into the wall or via the USB-C port, but it takes a few hours to fully charge from empty.

One USB-C port (20 W), one USB-A port (22.5 W), one USB-C cable (15 W), one Lightning cable (12 W), and Qi wireless charging (15 W). Can charge most phones one or two times (10,000 mAh).

Most Portable

The svelte Clutch, available in black, white, or pink, is about the same size as a stack of credit cards and weighs around 2 ounces. It’s designed to slide easily into pockets and bags and offers a modest top-up for your phone’s flagging battery. The third version of the super-slim portable charger packs a larger battery than its predecessors, at 3,300 mAh. You charge it via the USB-C port, and there is a built-in charging cable (there's a different Lightning model). It’s slow, it gets quite warm when plugged in, and a full Clutch added only around 40 percent to my iPhone 14 Pro’s battery. You can get higher capacities and more efficient chargers for less, but portability is the point of the Clutch V3, and it’s a handy size to tuck away in your bag for emergencies.

One USB-C port and a built-in Lightning or USB-C cable. Can top up your phone (3,300 mAh).

Cyberpunk Style

If you loved the clear craze that gave us a wave of translucent electronics in the 1990s, then you will immediately see the appeal of Shargeek’s power banks. A see-through case provides a clear view of the ports, chips, and bundled rechargeable Samsung Li-ion batteries inside this portable charger. The color display gives you a detailed readout of the voltage, current, and power flowing in or out of each port. If you dig into the menu, you can find stats showing temperature, cycles, and more.

The DC barrel port is unusual, and you can specify the voltage and current you want to suit different devices; it can deliver up to 75 watts. The first USB-C supports PD PPS and can go up to 100 watts (enough to charge a laptop), the second USB-C goes to 30 watts and supports PD 3.0 and Quick Charge 4 standards, and the USB-A port is QC 3.0 and puts out 18 watts. In short, this power bank will fast-charge most devices. It comes with a yellow 100-watt USB-C to USB-C cable and a wee bag. If you don’t care about the DC port, you might prefer the Shargeek Storm 2 Slim ($200) .

Two USB-C ports (100 W and 30 W), one USB-A (18 W), and a DC barrel port. Can charge most laptops once (25,600 mAh).

Best for the Rest

Got devices that don't charge via USB? Yes, they're still around. I have an old, but still great, GPS device that runs on AA batteries, headlamps that take AAA batteries, and countless other odds and ends that need batteries. After running through several brands, I've found Eneloop rechargeable batteries to be the longest-lasting and most reliable. The fast Panasonic charger can recharge any combination of AA and AAA batteries in less than three hours, and you can sometimes get it bundled in a pack that includes four AA Eneloop rechargeable batteries.

The standard AA Eneloop batteries hold around 2,000 mAh each, with AAA batteries holding 800 mAh, but you can upgrade to Eneloop Pro (2,500 mAh and 930 mAh, respectively) for more demanding gadgets, or go for Eneloop Lite (950 mAh and 550 mAh) for low-power devices. They come precharged with solar energy, and Eneloop recently switched to plastic-free cardboard packaging.

Rechargeable batteries are a smart idea, and Eneloop are the best , but if you need alkaline batteries for some reason and you are in Europe, check out the Itson range . They are made in the EU from recycled materials, and they are very affordable.

Best for the Car

It’s a horrible feeling when your car refuses to start because the battery is dead, but if you have a portable battery pack like this one in your trunk, you can give yourself a jump-start. WIRED reviewer Eric Ravenscraft  called it a roadside lifesaver after it jump-started his car several times on a long trip home from out of state. The Noco Boost Plus is a 1,000-amp, 12-volt battery pack with jump leads. It also has a USB-A port to charge your phone and a built-in 100-lumen LED flashlight. It’s a good thing to have in your trunk, but you must remember to charge it every six months. It’s also IP65-rated and good for temperatures from –4 degrees Fahrenheit up to 122 degrees.

One USB-A port. Can jump-start a car up to 20 times.

A Portable Power Station

Folks seeking more power for camping or a long road trip should pick up the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus. This cute and compact battery has a fold-out handle, packs a 288-Wh capacity, and weighs 8.3 pounds. It has two USB-C ports (18 W and 100 W), one USB-A (15 W), a car port (120 W), and an AC outlet (300 W, 600 W surge). There is plenty of power to keep your small gadgets going for a few days. There’s also an AC input, or you can charge it via USB-C. The fan kicks in sometimes, but the Silent Charging Mode keeps it below 45 decibels. You can manage it with Jackery’s app via Bluetooth, and it also has a handy flashlight. We have found Jackery gear reliable and durable, and you can expect to get at least a decade out of this battery. Go any bigger than this and portability gets debatable. We have a separate Best Portable Power Stations guide with recommendations for folks who need a lot of power.

If you want charging options for going off-grid, you can get the 300 Plus with a 40-W book-sized solar panel ($300) . It took me around eight hours to charge the battery with this panel in blue sky sunshine. If you want a faster charge and have the space for a larger panel, consider the 300 Plus with 100-W solar panels ($500) .

Two USB-C ports (100 W and 18 W), one USB-A (1 5W), one car port (120 W), and an AC outlet (300 W). Can charge most phones more than 10 times or a laptop three times (288 Wh).

Honorable Mentions

There are so many portable chargers out there. Here are a few more we like that just missed out on a place above for one reason or another.

• Fans Dreams MChaos for $59 : I love the idea of a wearable power bank, and this one comes in lime green with a carabiner that makes it easy to attach to a bag. It also has a built-in, retractable, 28-inch USB-C cable to charge your phone at up to 20 watts. Recharging the power bank is a little slower at 18 watts. The colored LED gives you a sense of remaining juice as it goes from green to orange to red, but the 5,000-mAh capacity means you’ll be lucky to get one full charge for your phone, and even the discounted price feels a little high.
• Sharge Flow Mini for $20 : With a similar design to Anker’s Nano Power Bank above and the same 5,000-mAh capacity, you might be tempted to go for this instead. It comes with interchangeable USB-C to USB-C or Lightning connectors (which I worry will be easy to lose) and has a built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a strap, though it’s tricky to pull out. There’s a power button with four LEDs to show the remaining power, and it only takes an hour and a half to refill, but the charging rate maxes out at 12 watts either way.
• Infinacore Pandora Portable Power Global Wireless Charger for $50 : This was our pick for the best wall charger power bank, but the Raycon that replaced it packs more power and charges faster. This is still a decent charger that plugs directly into the wall, and it has the advantage of optional EU and UK plug adapters for an extra $10, making it a handy travel companion. It offers 8,000 mAh via one USB-C port, two USB-A ports (18 W total), and Qi wireless charging (5 W).
• Baseus Blade 2 for $100 : With an extremely thin design, this 12,000-mAh-capacity power bank is easy to slip into a backpack and can charge most phones a couple of times or top up a laptop at up to 65 watts. It has a display showing battery life as a percentage or time remaining and the input or output for both USB-C ports. We've tried many products from up and down the Baseus product line. While they are generally reliable, we do think there are better options.
• Iniu Power Bank BI-B64 for $100 : Offering relatively low prices, Iniu is a power bank brand on the rise. This portable charger packs a 27,000-mAh capacity, can put out up to 140 W, and charges three devices at once via the two USB-C ports and a single USB-A port. We also tested the very similar BI-B63 ($60) , which has a slightly lower capacity at 25,000 mAh but seems like a better value. Unfortunately, both fell slightly short of the stated capacity when tested. We also like the color options available in the company's slimmest version .
• Anker Prime Power Bank for $130 : With a total combined output of 200 W and a hefty 20,000-mAh capacity, this is a solid choice for charging any device; you could even use it to charge two laptops at once via the two USB-C ports. There is a USB-A port, too, and a digital screen like the 737 listed above. You can also buy a Power Base ($70) for this, which enables you to stick the power bank on top and charge it via pogo pins. The base makes it easy to keep the power bank topped up and is handy for desktop charging with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port (combined max output 100 W). I tried the UK version (£130) , which worked great, but WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu had issues with the US base failing to charge the power bank.
• Anker Nano Power Bank 10,000 for $45 : Another solid option from Anker (also available for £50 from Amazon UK ), this power bank has a built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a loop for easy carrying and a further one USB-C and one USB-A port. It has a 10,000-mAh capacity, good for just shy of two full charges for most phones. It maxes out at 30 watts each way and can be fully charged in around two hours.
• Acefast Fast Charge Power Bank M1 for $45 : The see-through design and fun colors (we got purple) make this worth a look. It has a 10,000-mAh battery inside, supports Power Delivery, and can go up to 30 watts. The display shows the remaining power as a percentage, and you can recharge it in less than two hours.
• OtterBox 2-in-1 Power Bank with Apple Watch Charger for $50 : Finished in durable aluminum, this clever OtterBox power bank has a built-in Apple Watch charger. The rubberized bottom helps it stick to surfaces, and Nightstand mode makes it a handy bedside clock. But the limited 3,000-mAh battery means it runs out fast if you use the USB-C to top up your iPhone.
• Juice 3 Portable Charger for £20: An environmentally conscious alternative for folks in the UK, Juice power banks come in lots of colors, are made from 90 percent recycled plastic, and come in 100 percent recycled packaging. The series is numbered based on roughly how many charges you can expect to get out of it for the average smartphone, so the Juice 3 holds three full charges.
• Rugd Power Brick for $40 : Also available from Amazon UK (£40) , this shock- and water-resistant (IP67 certified) charger doubles as a bright 16-LED with an SOS mode, and has a hefty 10,050-mAh capacity (one USB-C at 18 W and a USB-A that supports QC). It’s also bright orange, weighs just 280 grams, and comes with a carabiner for easy attachment, all of which make it an excellent camping buddy.
• Mpowered Luci Pro Lux for $36 : This solar-powered inflatable lantern boasts 10 LEDs and emits a lovely warm glow that’s perfect for camping or walking at night. It is IP67-rated and packs down flat for easy carrying. While it’s not primarily a power bank, the 2,000-mAh battery in the Luci Pro can charge your phone in an emergency. A nearly full Luci Pro boosted my Pixel 6 Pro by around 25 percent. It takes at least 14 hours to charge back up using the solar panels, or you can plug into an outlet and recharge in three.
• Mophie Powerstation , Powerstation XL , and Powerstation Pro AC for $50+ : Mophie's 2023 update to its Powerstation line has three devices in 10,000-, 20,000-, and 27,000-mAh capacities. They're bulky, nondescript devices with USB-C and USB-A ports, but the latter has an AC port and is great for travel. WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu used the XL during his trip to Japan and had no trouble keeping his Switch Lite and Pixel 7 Pro topped up. There are LEDs to indicate remaining battery life, but there's otherwise nothing special about 'em.
• Excitrus Magnetic Wireless Power Bank for $120 : Power banks can be dull, so I like the unusual green fabric skin here, and a display embedded in the black plastic frame shows the remaining power percentage. This 20,800-mAh-capacity power bank has two USB-C ports (100 W and 45 W), a USB-A (18 W), and a wireless charging top (10 W) that works with Apple’s MagSafe. On the downside, it’s big, and it seems to drain slowly, even when not in use.
• iWalk Portable Charger for $40 : WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu used the Lightning version of this power bank while covering the Apple event and it reliably topped up his iPhone. The 4,800-mAh capacity won't fully refill your device, but it's tiny enough to keep in a bag at all times. There's an LED that shows the remaining percentage of power left. The company also has a MagSafe power bank ($30) .

What to Consider

There are a few things worth thinking about when you’re shopping for a portable charger.

Capacity : The capacity of a power bank is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), but this can be a little misleading because the amount of power you get out depends on the cable you use , the device you are charging, and the charging method (Qi wireless charging is less efficient). You will never get the maximum capacity. We try to provide an estimate of what you’ll get in terms of charges for devices.

Charging speeds and standards : The charging rate for devices like smartphones is measured in watts (W), but most power banks list the voltage (V) and the amperage (A). Thankfully, you can calculate the wattage yourself simply by multiplying the voltage and amperage. Unfortunately, getting that maximum rate also depends on your device, the standards it supports, and the charging cable you use. Many smartphones, including Apple’s iPhones , support the Power Delivery (PD) standard, meaning you can use higher-power power banks to recharge the device with no issues. A few phones, such as Samsung’s Galaxy S range, support a supplementary PD protocol called PPS (Programmable Power Standard) that goes up to 45 W. Many phones also support Qualcomm’s proprietary Quick Charge (QC) standard. There are also other proprietary fast-charging standards, but you won’t generally find power banks that support them unless they come from the smartphone manufacturer.

Pass-through : If you want to charge your power bank and use it to charge another device simultaneously, it will need pass-through support. The Nimble, GoalZero, Biolite, Mophie, Zendure, and Shargeek portable chargers listed support pass-through charging. Anker discontinued support for pass-through because it found that differences between the output of the wall charger and the input of the device charging can cause the power bank to cycle on and off rapidly and shorten its lifespan. Monoprice does not support pass-through charging, either. We would advise caution when using pass-through, as it can also cause portable chargers to heat up.

Travel : It’s safe to travel with a power bank, but there are two restrictions to keep in mind when you board a flight: You must have the portable charger in your carry-on luggage (it cannot be checked in), and it must not exceed 100 Wh (watt-hours). If your power bank has a larger capacity than 27,000 mAh, you should check with the airline. Below that should not be a problem.

Why You Should Avoid Cheap Stuff

Many years ago, the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 gained notoriety when its batteries caught fire in a series of incidents. There's been a steady stream of similar, though isolated, incidents ever since. However, despite the high-profile coverage of batteries gone wrong, the vast majority of Li-ion batteries are safe.

The chemical reaction that occurs inside a lithium-ion cell is complex, but as in any battery, there's a negative and a positive electrode. In lithium batteries, the negative is a lithium-carbon compound, and the positive is cobalt oxide (though many battery makers are moving away from cobalt). These two compounds cause a reaction that is safe when controlled and delivers energy to your devices. When the reaction gets out of control though, you end up with earbuds melting in your ears. What changes a safe reaction to an uncontrolled reaction can be any number of things: excess heat, physical damage during use, physical damage during manufacture, or using the wrong charger. 

The three basic rules that have kept me safe (thus far) through testing dozens and dozens of batteries are:  

• Avoid cheap cords, chargers, and outlet adapters.
• Make sure batteries aren't exposed to excessive heat (over 110 degrees).
• Regularly inspect batteries for signs of damage.

Avoiding cheap wall-outlet adapters, cords, and chargers is the most important. These are your most likely source of problems. Those chargers you see on Amazon for $20 cheaper than the competition? Not worth it. They probably got the price down by skimping on insulation, leaving out power-management tools, and ignoring the basics of electrical safety. Price alone is no guarantee of safety, either. Buy from reputable companies and brands.

Then there's heat. Too much of it can cause all manner of problems, both in terms of discharge and in terms of safety. Avoid heat, and pay attention to your batteries when they're charging. If your device gets overly hot when charging, this can be a sign of problems. Similarly, beware of any swollen, bulging, or otherwise misshapen batteries.

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Solo Travelers Don’t Go Anywhere Without This One Safety Device — and We Found 7 for Under $30

A reliable portable charger can make all the difference when you’re on the go.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Whether you’re packing up the cooler for an off-grid family camping trip or saving your PTO for a solo getaway somewhere international, carrying a power bank will without a doubt prove handy — if not absolutely crucial. 

Travelers credit portable chargers for giving them a sense of safety while they’re far from home. You can use them to keep your phone juiced up for navigation, emergency calling, summoning Ubers instead of hopping in random taxis, and even paying digitally if you run out of cash in the local currency. Less important but still convenient, you can use them to keep your Kindle or iPad running for endless entertainment on your travels.

There are countless battery packs to pick from out there, but not many that have thousands of rave reviews from travelers. Shop these seven top-rated power banks from Amazon, all on sale for under $30.

Iniu Slimmest 10,000-mAh Portable Charger

One reviewer called this charger a “safety net” that has “removed so much stress from [their] solo traveling.” The brand calls it the thinnest 10,000-mAh power bank on the market, and it’s by far the most popular at Amazon, racking up more than 80,000 five-star reviews. Marked by its signature paw print design, the battery pack is powerful enough to recharge an iPhone 8 3.6 times and your AirPods Pro 13.2 times. Unlike most others, it can charge all devices directly through its USB-C in/out ports.

Charmast 10,000-mAh Travel Battery Pack

This Charmast portable battery is extra convenient because it has four built-in cables — three outputs and one input. The cables are compatible with iPhones, Samsung devices, and any gadget that can be charged with a USB-C cord. “I used the map on my phone to get around everywhere, look up translations, take photos, make reservations via Booking.com and Eurail ... everything was only possible due to this handy-dandy charger,” one reviewer said .

Anker Nano 5,000-mAh Power Bank With Foldable USB-C Connector

If you’re looking for something as small as possible to fit in your pocket while you’re out sightseeing, this wireless Anker Nano power bank is the ticket. Reviewers call it the “ most portable ” charger out there, connecting to new iPhone models, Samsung phones, AirPods, and more with a built-in USB-C connector that flips up when you need it. No separate parts or cumbersome cables to fumble with — just plug it directly into your device and go.

Ifidol 16,000-mAh MagSafe Battery Pack

This MagSafe battery pack is a handy travel accessory if you have devices with wireless charging capabilities. It has two ways of charging, so you can simultaneously use the pass-through charging dock for one device and the USB-C port for another. One traveler wrote that the Ifidol portable battery allowed them “to keep two iPhones with heavy usage going all day long” while on vacation.

Pxwaxpy 38,000-mAh Portable Charger

Thanks to its 38,000-mAh power capacity, this battery provides six to eight full phone charges. It has three output ports, which can all be used simultaneously. The LED screen tells you exactly how much juice it has left, too (no three-bar guessing game). Reviewers say it’s a little heavy — read: sturdy — for travel, but most agree that the power it packs is fully worth the extra weight.

Iniu Smallest 10,000-mAh Power Bank

Iniu says this is “the market's smallest 10,000-mAh power bank,” measuring only about four by 2.5 inches with a thickness of less than an inch. Its compactness and light weight (9 ounces) make it perfect for travel. It even has a tiny arm that flips out to hold your phone upright, which is handy for watching Netflix on long flights and train journeys. The brand says this mini gadget can charge an iPhone three times and AirPods 12 times. 

Veger 10,000-mAh Portable Charger

This charger has a built-in AC wall plug, so you could technically leave your adapters at home. It also has two built-in cables, including one that has two connectors. And with the additional output ports, you can charge four devices at the same time. “I very much enjoy the fact that it is not needed to have a cord and brick,” one reviewer wrote . “The prongs that directly plug into the outlet are so helpful. The cords that tuck away are a great design as well since I don't have to fumble around with too long or too short of a cord.”

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The best portable chargers for 2022

Smartphones are getting larger and more powerful, and smartphone batteries have increased in size, too, with some phones now exceeding 5,000mAh in capacity. Most of us consistently get a day's use out of our smartphone before it needs recharging. Heavier use pushes that down, and if you're having a particularly active day, you may need to plug your phone into a charger or park it on a wireless charging pad for a while.

But plugging your phone into a charging outlet isn't always possible, especially if you're on the move, or simply far away from any power sources. That's when a portable charger, portable battery, or power bank is a godsend. Simply plug your phone into your portable charger and top up your device without being tethered to one location. Whether you need a big, bulky charger with power for days or a slim power bank that can slip into your bag and give your phone a quick top-up, there's a charger for you. Here are the best portable chargers we've found.

Nimble Champ Portable Charger

Best for those needing a pocketable charge.

• Can charge two devices at once
• Huge 10,000mAh battery
• Compact and light
• Ecological production materials and techniques
• Doesn't ship with a wall adapter

The Nimble Champ provides a 10,000 mAh battery for up to three days of power. An ultra-compact 6.4 ounces and 3 inches at its longest point, the Champ is one of the lightest and smallest battery chargers available. It can charge two devices at once via USB-C and USB-A to keep your iPhone or Android phone running for several days. It features 18W Power Delivery and QC 4.0, compatible with Apple and Android fast-charge protocols to charge up to 80% in 30 minutes. It includes a USB-A to USB-C cable but no wall adapter. The company emphasizes its ecological priorities by using certified recycled plastic for the product and biodegradable plastic-free packaging.

Imuto 20000mAh Portable Charger

Best for anyone who wants to track power levels.

• 20,000mAh, high capacity battery
• Pass through charging
• Built-in LED flashlight
• Heavy and bulky

This Imuto is a 20,000mAh, high capacity beast in a compact-sized package that supports pass through charging. The charger features two USB ports, wherein both detect your device intelligently to deliver a faster charge or charge two devices simultaneously. You get around six smartphone charges or 1.5 tablet charges. It is powered by high-quality lithium polymer batteries with multiple smart protection tech, to keep your devices safe from over-charging, over-voltage, over-current, and short-circuiting. The smart digital display shows the remaining power in digital format so you always know when the unit is fully charged and how much power remains. There's even a built-in LED flashlight for low-light locations. All this power gets a little heavy and bulky, but the benefits are worth it.

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Charmast 26,800mAh Slim Portable Charger

Best for business travelers who use more than one device.

• Can charge the average phone five times
• Slim and compact
• Versatile with numerous inputs and outputs
• Heavier than it looks
• Doesn't support pass through charging

If want to make sure your smartphones and tablets don't run out of juice, this power bank from Charmast is up to the task. With a capacity of 26,800mAh, it can charge the average phone five times while also charging earlier MacBooks and iPads twice or three times over. It also requires only nine hours of charging time, so you can replenish it overnight. Even though it offers a high capacity, it's also slim and manageable, weighing only 15 ounces. It's a great all-around machine, and with four outputs (USB-C and 3 USB-A) and three inputs (Micro USB, USB-C, and Lightning), it provides plenty of versatility.

Iniu Portable Charger

Best for travelers with multiple devices who need a powerful charger.

• Digital display tracks battery levels
• Uses Quick Charge technology
• Three ports can be used simultaneously
• Bulky and heavy
• Stops charging if the digital display is switched off

Here's a 20,000mAh power bank that won't break your bank. It offers three USB ports (two USB-A, one USB-C), two of which use QC (Quick Charge) technology, which can recharge the latest iPhones from 0% to 60% in just over half an hour. It features 20,000mAh of juice, so it can help multiple devices before needing a refill itself. One of its most noteworthy features is the digital display, which tells you just how much of its own battery it has left. Also works with a variety of other devices beyond smartphones and tablets, including AirPods, Bluetooth headphones, and fitness trackers, while all three of its ports can be used simultaneously to recharge devices.

Yelomin Solar Charger Power Bank

Best for the sunlit outdoors.

• Extremely high capacity power bank
• Can recharge via its own solar panel
• Rugged and waterproof
• Solar power charging is slow

If you're planning a trek across the Sahara desert anytime soon, Yelomin's Solar Power Bank may be the portable solar phone charger for you. At a stunning 20,000mAh, this high-capacity power bank can be recharged using a regular outlet, or you can simply point the built-in solar panel at the sky so the sun can do all the work. It comes with two standard USB-A ports that can be used to charge two devices simultaneously, although you'll see faster performance if you charge one device at a time. While its use of the sun is convenient if needed, it takes noticeably longer than usual for the charger itself to recharge using solar power. Still, it is a highly rugged, waterproof, and reliable portable charger, made of a mix of PC, silicone, and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), with an advertised lifecycle of more than 900 recharges. It also offers an LED-based flashlight, just in case you're without a torch.

Mophie Powerstation Plus

Best as an iphone accessory.

• Compact, lightweight, and portable
• Features a built-in Lightning cable
• Can pinpoint the fastest charging speed per device
• Reports of slow charging

The Mophie Powerstation Plus is a highly compact, lightweight portable charger that packs a considerable amount of extra power for your device. At 6,000mAh, it provides a whole extra charge for most major smartphones and many tablets. The charger is particularly suited to iPhones because it comes with a built-in Lightning cable as well as a USB-A port. It charges at an output of 2.1A and maximum wattage of 18W and has an adaptive charging technology that can identify the fastest charging speed for your device. Mophie says the Powerstation Plus can recharge the average iPhone from 0% to 50% in around 30 minutes. It has a slimline aluminum finish and comes in four colors.

Infinacore Pandora P3 Global Wireless Power Bank

Best for frequent travelers with multiple devices.

• Unit has four outputs
• Can charge several devices at once
• It has pass through charging
• LED screen tracks power percentage
• Less powerful than some competitors
• Indicator lights may be too bright for some

Consider the Infinacore Pandora P3 if you're looking to go truly wireless or want to accommodate a wide range of devices. There are three outputs — four if you count the wireless charger: A single USB-C port with PD, a QuickCharge USB 3.0 port, and a regular USB 2.0 port, and recharges at a maximum of 18W. The wireless charger tops out at 10W. It works with multiple devices, so you can charge several at once. It'll pass through power while recharging, so you can use it as a charging adapter while it's plugged into a wall socket. An LED screen on the device lists the charge percentage and a power button beneath. It feels solid and comes with a soft-touch coating that adds a lot of grip. While an 8,000mAh battery is a little small and 18W also is a little slow when flagships are pulling 25W or even 45W from their standard chargers these days, this small charger is the perfect accompaniment for shorter trips.

Elecjet PowerPie Power Bank

Best for those who need power in a sleek package.

• Massive 20,000mAh battery
• Supports pass-through charging
• Heavy and chunky
• Optimal performance requires a wall charger

Elecjet PowerPie Power Bank has a massive 20,000mAh battery, which should be enough to charge most phones three times over. It supports the USB-C Power Delivery 3.0 standard, so it can output up to 45W through the USB-C port. The Elecjet PowerPie can charge two devices at once and supports pass-through charging. It ships with a short USB-C to USB-C cable, but the supplied cable doesn't seem to support 45W charging, so you'll need a wall charger and USB-C to USB-C cable rated at 45W to get optimal performance. It's quite heavy and chunky and finished in a plain, soft-touch, matte black plastic that's comfortable to hold.

Omnicharge Omni 20

Best for those with multiple devices.

• Four powerful charging options
• OLED screen displays various power readouts
• Versatile unit powers all types of devices
• Larger in physical size
• Relatively expensive

When you need to charge every device you own, but still want something reasonably portable, the Omni 20 does the trick. This unassuming square with sloping corners packs a multitude of speedy charging options. There's a proper AC outlet, just like a wall outlet, capable of putting out 100W to a laptop or other large device — even a TV. A DC outlet can put out 70W and two USB ports — rated at 5V/3A or Quick Charge 3.0 — so whatever smartphone you own it should charge at top speed. An OLED screen shows the remaining power, how much power is coming in or going out, how much time before it runs out of juice, and the temperature. A rocker turns on the USB ports and the AC outlet. The DC port can act as an output, but it's also the best way to charge the Omni 20 and, if you use the adapter and cable provided, it can charge up fully in just three hours — not bad for a 20,400mAh capacity device. It's on the expensive side and quite large for the capacity offered, but as a one-stop charging solution for every device you own, it's hard to top.

Frequently Asked Questions

The answer generally depends on how often you travel. If you're a frequent traveler (or heavy commuter) and tend to go for relatively long spells between visits to a normal charger, portable chargers definitely are worth it. While some of the heftier chargers can be fairly pricey, they're still a good purchase if you really need to be on your phone while away from a wall socket. At the same time, many portable chargers with smaller capacities are available for reasonable prices, so even infrequent voyagers may find they're worthwhile.

The answer to this question depends on how many devices you intend to power while you're away from a wall charger. If you're using a phone and a tablet, then a portable charger with 10,000mAh or more may be worthwhile. Some people need portable chargers that offer at least 100% of their smartphone's battery, while others need even more or less. It's best to find out the battery size of your device and choose accordingly. For some people, even a smaller portable charger that offers 2,000mAh (around 50% of the average flagship smartphone) is enough, while some people who travel extensively will need at least 5,000mAh, 10,000mAh, or even more.

Most good portable chargers should last for at least a few hundred charges before beginning to deteriorate. Longevity varies among devices, so it's best to do your research and check with a charger's manufacturer (or seller) before making a purchase.

You can bring your portable charger onto an airplane. However, remember that any portable chargers must be taken as carry-on luggage, and should not be checked in with your larger suitcases and stored in the hold of the plane. This holds for the vast majority of airlines operating today. If in doubt, call your airline's customer service number to confirm their policies beforehand.

You can buy portable chargers from pretty much the same outlets as smartphones, tablets, and other devices. Apple and Samsung's official websites stock a number of portable chargers, while you can also find plenty from online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy.

Editors' Recommendations

• Anker sale: up to 40% off portable chargers, cable, and more
• The 5 best wireless chargers for Android and iPhone in 2024
• My kid needed a new portable charger, so I bought myself this instead
• These are the 11 best iPhone chargers you can buy in 2023
• Every iPhone owner needs this portable charger stand, and it’s $17 off

Jackie is an obsessive, insomniac tech writer and editor in northern California. A wildlife advocate, cat fan, and photo app fanatic, her specialties include cross-platform hardware and software, art, design, photography, video, and a wide range of creative and productivity apps and systems. Formerly senior editor at Macworld and creativity editor at The Next Web, Jackie now writes for a variety of consumer tech publications.

Are you looking for Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, or S22 deals? Since Samsung introduced the Galaxy S22, this is a better time than ever to shop for cheap Samsung Galaxy S20 deals -- and Galaxy smartphone deals are exactly what we've got. From the big-box online stores to mobile network service providers, we've combed the web to bring you all the best Samsung Galaxy S20 deals, bundles, and carrier offers available right now with discounts that can save you hundreds on a new Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, and S22 models. If you love all things Samsung and want to see what else is on offer at the moment, then head on over to these Samsung Galaxy Note 20 deals once you're done here. We may see supply chain issues, shipping delays, low inventory, and even more materials shortages -- like what's happening with the computer chip market. If you're ready to see what's available, check out our top picks below. Today's best Galaxy S20 deals

Samsung Galaxy S20

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are in the books, but that doesn't mean deals have ceased to exist. You have another week of slowly diminishing Cyber Monday deals to take advantage of. There are still some truly epic Cyber Monday Apple Watch deals out there, so whether you're eyeing the Apple Watch SE or want to save money on the expensive Ultra, we've rounded up the best deals right here. Not in the market for an Apple Watch? Check out our Cyber Monday smartwatch deals for money off other brands. Don't forget, this is the last major sales event of 2022, so the only way to ensure you get your new watch in time for the holidays is to order today. Apple Watch SE (GPS, 40mm) -- $149, was $279

The Apple Watch SE 1st Gen has a large screen, and great features for the price. WatchOS is as pleasant as ever to use thanks to Apple's incredible software engineering. It also features an all-day battery life, which is certainly welcome. It's a solid entry point if you've never owned a smartwatch or an Apple Watch before.

If you're a certified road warrior or hardcore traveler, mobile hotspots are now essential gear. Whether you’re traveling to a remote place and need to stay up to date with your emails or visiting a city and wish to avoid public Wi-Fi, mobile hotspots are for you. While your new smartphone likely has a mobile hotspot built-in, standalone Wi-Fi hotspots are more flexible, especially for multiple devices and phones with network data caps. With a hotspot, you can connect your laptop, phone, tablet, or Wi-Fi-connected camera without component battery drain. We found some excellent hotspots for you to choose from.

The proliferation of 5G networks has increased the prevalence of 5G hotspots. If 4G LTE is not cutting it for your needs, have a look at our list of the best 5G hotspots.

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Travel Tips Tuesday: Safely Packing Batteries for Your Trip

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If you’re traveling on vacation this summer, you’ll most likely need to bring some batteries along, whether they’re for your camera, personal electronics or other battery-operated equipment. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented safety guidelines for batteries being transported on airplanes designed to prevent fire-related incidents from occurring. TSA works closely with the FAA on potential aviation safety and security issues, and TSA security officers are trained to identify potential safety and security battery-related threats in carry-on and checked bags.

Here is the breakdown on what batteries are allowed and prohibited in carry-on and checked bags, along with some packing tips for safe travel with batteries:

Batteries Allowed in Carry-on Bags:

• Dry cell alkaline batteries; typical AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt, button sized cells, etc.
• Dry cell rechargeable batteries such as Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) and Nickel Cadmium (NiCad).
• Lithium ion batteries (a.k.a.: rechargeable lithium, lithium polymer, LIPO, secondary lithium).
• Consumer-sized lithium ion batteries [no more than 8 grams of equivalent lithium content or 100 watt hours (wh) per battery]. This size covers AA, AAA, 9-volt, cell phone, PDA, camera, camcorder, Gameboy, and standard laptop computer batteries.
• Up to two larger lithium ion batteries (more than 8 grams, up to 25 grams of equivalent lithium content per battery) in their carry-on. This size covers larger extended-life laptop batteries. Most consumer lithium ion batteries are below this size.

Batteries Allowed in Checked Bags:

• Except for spare (uninstalled) lithium batteries, all the batteries allowed in carry-on baggage are also allowed in checked baggage; however, we recommend that you pack them in your carry-on bag whenever possible. In the cabin, airline flight crews can better monitor conditions, and have access to the batteries or device if a fire does occur.

Prohibited Batteries:

• Car batteries, wet batteries, or spillable batteries are prohibited from both carry-on and checked baggage unless they are being used to power a scooter or wheelchair. If you need to pack a spare battery for a scooter or wheelchair, you must advise the aircraft operator so that the battery can be properly packaged for air travel.
• Spare lithium batteries (both lithium metal and lithium ion/polymer) are prohibited in checked baggage.

Packing Tips for Batteries:

• If you’re traveling with spare batteries in addition to the ones inside your devices, consider placing each battery in its own protective case, plastic bag, or package, or place tape across the battery's contacts to isolate terminals. Isolating terminals prevents hazards due to short-circuiting.
• If you must carry a battery-powered device in any baggage, please package it so it won’t accidentally turn on during the flight. If there is an on-off switch or a safety switch, tape it in the "off" position.
• Check out the Department of Transportation’s spare battery tips page for more information on safely packing spare batteries, and this FAA webpage for more information on permitted and permitted batteries that includes helpful photos.

Battery Chargers:

• You can pack battery chargers in carry-on and checked bags. If the charger has an electrical cord, be sure to wrap it tightly around the charger.
• Don’t pack regular batteries in a rechargeable battery charger. Non-rechargeable batteries are not designed for recharging, and become hazardous if placed in a battery charger.

Safe travels!

Lynn TSA Blog Team

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Travelfornoobs

The Complete Packing List for Moscow

Moscow packing list – what you need to bring, how to pack for moscow.

You’ve booked your plane ticket and the time of departure is fast approaching? After the joys of such a decision, comes the question of knowing what to put in your suitcase to go to Moscow. No need to panic, we have prepared a very complete list of the essential things to bring to make sure you don’t miss anything once you are there.

In order to leave no room for unforeseen events, it’s of course preferable to go through this list a few days before leaving rather than the day before departure, as you might miss some items.

Take the time to read and download it in order to identify the things that you absolutely must pack and that you might miss and that could make you lose time and money if you forget them.

You will also need to think about packing according to the type of accommodation you will be staying in, the different modes of transportation you will use during your trip, the climate and the season, as well as the activities you plan to do.

In order to help you prepare your suitcase, this checklist of the essential things to bring in Moscow gathers several categories: clothes, accessories, various objects… It will allow you to have a concrete vision of a typical suitcase for Moscow.

An advice, think of keeping some space in your luggage if you wish to bring back souvenirs or to make some clothing shopping on the spot.

Thanks to this travel list, preparing your bag for Moscow will be a real child’s play and you will just have to enjoy your adventure!

Note : This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.

• Important hings to do before you go
• Essential documents
• Transport essentials
• Backpack & luggage
• Clothing and shoes
• Hygiene & Toiletries
• Photo, Video & High Tech
• Useful accessories
• Medication and first aid kit
• Activities and Useful Links (+ Printable checklist PDF)

1/ Important things to do before you go

 Prepare your travel itinerary  Apply for a visa (if necessary)  Make your vaccinations (if necessary)  Check-up at the doctor / dentist  Take out a travel insurance  Photocopy or scan important documents (passport)  Write down e-mail and useful phone numbers in your address book  Warn your bank about your trip abroad (if necessary)  Book accomodation for your first night ( Do it now before everything is fully booked! Check the best hotels on Booking )  Download offline applications and maps for Maps.me  Download movies offline   Prepare your favorite music playlist  Turn off or turn down the heat of your house  Empty garbage cans  Water the plants   Give a copy of your house/car keys to a family member or friend  Close doors and windows

2/ Essential documents

Even before you buy your plane ticket, remember to check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least six months after your return date (for some countries) and have a blank page. Another tip: send your important documents to a secondary email in case you lose them.

   Passport   ID card    Plane or train ticket (have a paper copy just in case)   Reservation documents (e-ticket, train ticket, hotel reservation)   Visa (if necessary)   International driver’s license, if you wish to rent a car   Health insurance card   Travel insurance   Credit card   Cash   Useful numbers in case of emergency   Itinerary and address of your accommodation (hotel / AirBnB / camping)   Vaccination certificate   Diving license, sailing license, etc.   Some business cards with your contact information, email, blog, website

3/ Transport essentials

The little things to have with you at all times during the flight or the trip by train or bus:

 Phone and charger  Book / Magazine / Kindle / Travel Guide  MP3 player   Chewing gum   Pen + notepad  Travel pillow ( my favorite )  Sleep mask ( my favorite )   Earplugs   Snacks / sandwich   Small water bottle  Nasal ointment for dry nose  Sunglasses   Glasses case   Watch   Hand sanitizer   Disposable face mask   Tissues   Motion sickness medication

4/ Backpack & luggage

 Waterproof dry bag ( my favorite )  Handbag   Travel laundry bag ( my favorite )  Carry-on suitcase ( my favorite )  Travel bag ( my favorite )   Luggage tag ( my favorite )   Travel Packing Organizers ( my favorite )   Rain cover for backpack ( my favorite )   Zippered carry-on bag   Shoe bag ( my favorite )   Fanny pack   Lightweight foldable backpack ( my favorite )

5/ Clothing and shoes

  Socks  Underwear (panties, thongs, bras, briefs, boxers…)  Tank tops  Skirt ♀  Dress ♀  Pajamas  T-shirts  Long sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Short sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Polo shirt ( for her , for him )   Sweatshirt / pullover ( for her , for him )   Jeans   Lightweight pants ( for her , for him )   Money belt ( my favorite )   Shorts   Jogging suit   Jacket / coat   K-way ( for her , for him )   Windbreaker ( for her , for him )  Hat / cap / beanie   Scarf / bandana   Swimsuit   Buff scarf ( my favorite )

For shoes, you will have to choose according to the activities you plan to do:

 Comfortable walking shoes   Shoes for going out (restaurants, bars, clubs…)  Flip-flops (for the beach, showers…) ( for her , for him )  Hiking shoes ( for her , for him )  Sandals ( for her , for him )   Water shoes for walking in water (beaches, waterfalls, rivers…) ( for her , for him )  Light trekking shoes ( for her , for him )  Crocs

6/ Hygiene & Toiletries

 Microfiber towel ( my favorite )   Toilet bag   Portable Travel Bottles ( my favorite )  Toothbrush & toothpaste  Dental floss  Soap   Shampoo   Facial cleanser   Nail clippers   Cotton buds (biodegradable)   Tweezers   Make-up   Deodorant   Comb / Hairbrush   Razor & shaving foam ♂   Biodegradable wipes ( my favorite )   Toilet paper roll   Perfume   Makeup ♀   Contact Lenses   Contact lens product   Pocket mirror

7/ Photo, Video & High Tech

For photographers and videographers:

 Camera  Lens  Memory card  Polarizing filters   ND filter   Extra battery   Charger + cable + plug adapter   Cleaning kit   External hard drive   USB key   Stabilizer   Drone ( my favorite )    Waterproof phone case   Flash   Solar charger ( my favorite )    Gopro ( my favorite )   Waterproof case   Selfie Pole  External battery / Powerbank ( my favorite ) 

Don’t forget:

 Portable speaker  Ipad / Tablet  Laptop PC  External battery  Headphones or noise cancelling headphones ( my favorite )

Useful apps to download before you go to Moscow:

 AirBnB  Booking  Couchsurfing  Flush – Public Toilet Finder (Useful for finding toilets!)  Google Maps  Google Translator  Google Trips  Lonely Planet Guide  LoungeBuddy  Maps.me  Meetup  Tripadvisor  Uber  Whatsapp  XE Currency

8/ Useful accessories

The accessories you will take in your bag for Moscow will depend on your travel style:

  TSA lock ( my favorite )  Headlamp ( my favorite )  Sleeping bag ( my favorite )  Sheets ( my favorite )  Swiss Army knife (not in the hand luggage!) ( my favorite )  Travel clothesline ( my favorite )  Powdered or liquid detergent  Clothes pegs  Spork ( my favorite )  Ziploc bags  Lighter  Folding umbrella ( my favorite )  Toilet paper  Mosquito repellent ( my favorite )   Mosquito net ( my favorite )   Sunscreen cream  Aloe vera gel   Waterproof pouch for smartphone    For hikers : GPS, map, compass, water bottle   Walking stick ( my favorite )   Anti-sweat talcum powder ( my favorite )   Beach towel ( my favorite )   Sawyer water filter ( must-have !)  Pills to purify non-drinking water   Mask, snorkel, fins   Diving accessories (gloves, dive computer, lamp, knife…)

9/ Medication and first aid kit

I suggest that you consult your doctor and dentist before leaving. Beware of unauthorized medication and remember to keep your vaccinations up to date!

If you have a treatment don’t forget to take your personal medication and your prescription if necessary (or medical certificate).

You can buy a first aid kit already prepared ( my favorite ).

  Cotton buds   Tweezers   Round-tipped scissors   Pairs of single-use latex gloves  Bandages   Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain   Sterile compresses   Disinfectant spray for wounds   Physiological saline solution in pods (wound cleaning)   Condoms and other contraceptives

For longer trips and higher risk locations, we can also add:

  Sterile adhesive skin sutures (steristrips)   Rehydration solutions (in case of dehydration)   Water purification tablets   Water decontamination tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur)   Medication for altitude   Medication for sore throat    Anti-malarial medication   Survival blanket   Tick tweezers   Ointment against itching (antihistamine)   Probiotics for the stomach   Corticosteroid pills and cream   Analgesics (painkillers)   Survival blanket   Cold medicine (decongestant)   Biafine (in case of burns or sunburns)   Broad-spectrum antibiotics without a prescription   Anti-diarrhea tablets (immodium, smecta)

10/ Activities and Useful Links + Printable checklist

You can download the complete travel list in PDF format and print it by clicking here.

Book your hotel in Moscow now on Booking.com

AirBnb : Get a discount for your first booking!

Book now your activities in Moscow on Getyourguide:

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• Discussion by Brand & User Reviews

Securing extra battery to Moscow Plus

• Thread starter Silvercat
• Start date Dec 14, 2020
• Dec 14, 2020

Hi, I recall reading that long time member John Peck rigged a battery support holder to carry an extra battery. He is obviously very talented. Any suggestions would be appreciated. And, the pros and cons of carrying that extra 9 pounds. Also, would the 48 volt 18 amp be much better than the 16 amp battery? I understand the weight capacity of the bike is 275 pounds. Does that include the 57 pounds of the bike weight or just the rider? I also had one local high end bike shop tell me that they will not work on my bike, even simple basic adjustments! They told me that the cables prevent my handlebar from being raised!! Total BS as far as I am concerned. I could use about a 5 inch height increase. Thanks folks!  

Well-Known Member

• Dec 21, 2020

Brake cables ad nausea ever consider a "bmx" style handlebar? On the battery question, a little or a lot( it all depends on the battery manufacturer you got- with respect "renuzit") Gross weight is total weight of bike and add ones including rider. Tare weight empty weight of bike Net weight is what you can add on the bike or haul within weight limit, I expect 275# is the recommended gross weight. Have you given that bike a road test yet? 16AH is a pretty sizable battery, you can always mount a "cargo rack battery' of 10 ah or so and parallel it, be advised any weight added higher on the Bike will affect handling.  

• Dec 25, 2020

Hi, Thank you. I think it might be best to check with a local ‘good’ bike shop so that they can see my bike in person. I do not want to significantly change handling characteristics. And, re an extra battery, certainly a trade off re weight and convenience. I wish there were much lighter battery options available...perhaps down the road? Thanks again!  

Merry Christmas!, remember this", it is going to get better". Grin has some nice range extender battery packs @ 36 volts.  

Active Member

Silvercat said: Hi, Thank you. I think it might be best to check with a local ‘good’ bike shop so that they can see my bike in person. I do not want to significantly change handling characteristics. And, re an extra battery, certainly a trade off re weight and convenience. I wish there were much lighter battery options available...perhaps down the road? Thanks again! Click to expand...

Fred said: I rigged up a mount for a 2nd 13Ah battery to go with the installed 16Ah pack. My intent was to take along the 13Ah pack if I knew I was going on a long trip. It all works fine, but I am finding that I can do in the neighbourhood of 80-90 Km with just the 16Ah pack and the amount of pedaling I like to do. Frankly that's about as much as my butt can take, so I'm not sure I will ever use the auxiliary pack. My bike is a step-thru model, so my approach to mounting the aux pack may be different than others. If anyone wants a pic, I can attach it. Click to expand...

Parallel is easy(use same voltage batteries) and simply incorporate the same polarity wires together it is easy to find parallel XT combiners. MAKE SURE YOU DO NOT SHORT ANYTHING! these batteries can dump a lot of current fast( you can find out what a plasma is) if unsure get someone to show you that knows about such things  

• Dec 26, 2020

Timpo said: I thought it was simple as connecting them too, by using connectors sold on AliExpress. 1.99US $ |Xt60 Female To 2 Male Parallel Battery Connector 14awg 10cm 100mm Silicone Cable Extension Y Splitter For Rc Lipo Battery - Parts & Accs - AliExpress Smarter Shopping, Better Living! Aliexpress.com www.aliexpress.com 1.99US $ |Xt60 Male To Dual Female Parallel Connector Y Splitter Cable Wire 14awg 1 Male To 2 Female For Rc Lipo Battery - Parts & Accs - AliExpress Smarter Shopping, Better Living! Aliexpress.com www.aliexpress.com The reason why I posted the WattWagons dual battery converter was because, some people have experience problems. I can't remember why, maybe because two BMS could not work simultaneously? Click to expand...

• Connect the two in parallel so both are used at the same time​
• Use one at a time by manually switching one in and the other out​
• The +ve side of one battery is connected to the +ve side of the other; ditto for the -ve terminals
• It is important that the two batteries start out at the same voltage. Otherwise there is potential for the higher voltage one to rapidly discharge through the discharge ports of the lower voltage one causing damage from the unexpected high current.
• This risk can be mitigated by installing diodes on the +ve leads of both packs, allowing current flow in only one direction. These diodes must be spec'd to be able to support the max current expected from one battery.
• That WattWagons dual battery converter mentioned above probably has diodes and perhaps some other circuitry as it permits voltage mixtures of 52V and 48V. However, I have enough gadgets on my bike and don't need another!
• One benefit of this approach is that because they are in parallel, each battery is delivering only half the load demanded by the controller. This lower amp discharge is easier on the cells and may extend their life.
• When one battery is depleted (or anytime you want) it is "unplugged" from the controller and the "spare" is plugged in.
• This plug-in/plug-out can be done simply just using the connectors.
• It can also be done by a using a SPDT switch by making the -ve terminals ground and joining them together and connecting the +ve terminals to the poles on the switch. We need to be sure to source a switch capable of carrying the needed current.
• The benefit of this approach is that when one battery is drained you know where you stand and that you are now running on the spare capacity of the 2nd battery. Or if both packs are the same capacity, you know you have used about half the total you have on board. (I don't know if anyone is old enough to remember the early VW Beetle that had no gas gauge and when you ran out, you could switch to a second small "spare tank" with enough in it to hopefully get you at a gas station.)

Decrepidude

• Mar 27, 2021
• Apr 12, 2021

Decrepidude said: I've spent a great deal of time pondering this issue, and besides the cost of the battery, I've decided that if I go forward, I would not parallel a second battery. If you don't go marathon trekking every day, you're just weighing down the bike and reducing its efficiency. The beauty of getting another battery is that on the occasions you really need more range, you can bring it with you and just swap it out when your original runs down. Click to expand...

• Apr 13, 2021

Fred said: Although I don't profess to be an expert on this, I can share my understanding and experience with using 2 batteries on a bike, there are essentially 2 approaches: Connect the two in parallel so both are used at the same time​ Use one at a time by manually switching one in and the other out​ 1. The parallel approach The +ve side of one battery is connected to the +ve side of the other; ditto for the -ve terminals It is important that the two batteries start out at the same voltage. Otherwise there is potential for the higher voltage one to rapidly discharge through the discharge ports of the lower voltage one causing damage from the unexpected high current. This risk can be mitigated by installing diodes on the +ve leads of both packs, allowing current flow in only one direction. These diodes must be spec'd to be able to support the max current expected from one battery. That WattWagons dual battery converter mentioned above probably has diodes and perhaps some other circuitry as it permits voltage mixtures of 52V and 48V. However, I have enough gadgets on my bike and don't need another! One benefit of this approach is that because they are in parallel, each battery is delivering only half the load demanded by the controller. This lower amp discharge is easier on the cells and may extend their life. 2. The one at a time approach When one battery is depleted (or anytime you want) it is "unplugged" from the controller and the "spare" is plugged in. This plug-in/plug-out can be done simply just using the connectors. It can also be done by a using a SPDT switch by making the -ve terminals ground and joining them together and connecting the +ve terminals to the poles on the switch. We need to be sure to source a switch capable of carrying the needed current. The benefit of this approach is that when one battery is drained you know where you stand and that you are now running on the spare capacity of the 2nd battery. Or if both packs are the same capacity, you know you have used about half the total you have on board. (I don't know if anyone is old enough to remember the early VW Beetle that had no gas gauge and when you ran out, you could switch to a second small "spare tank" with enough in it to hopefully get you at a gas station.) Anyways hope this is useful and there may be other ways or ideas on how to do this. Click to expand...

Timpo said: Okay so, looks like you will need some kind of module to make parallel connection work. Each battery pack will contain BMS, each pack may have different cells, simply connecting two can't be a good idea. Area 13 boltonebikes.com Click to expand...

I usually carry two batteries on long rides just in case. Most of the time, I don't need the second one and I only have to recharge the primary. If I had the batteries in parallel, I would have to recharge both after every ride. This means you need two chargers or run the risk of forgetting to swap batteries with a single charger.  

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• Travel Tips

Phaedra Parks Says Dehydration Is the Real Traitor When Traveling

The reality star from 'real housewives' and 'traitors' reveals her must-have travel items to thrillist..

I have always loved to travel. I think it really is better than any book you can read. I'm an avid traveler, and my sons are great travelers, too. We have made it our business each year to visit a different continent and we have been to some of the most beautiful places in the world.

I'm from a very conservative Christian background and so my vacations as a little kid were going to the PTL club. It was like a Christian amusement park, in Fort Mill, South Carolina. We were members and big supporters of Jim Bakker and Tammy Faye Bakker , so I remember going there and they used to do these Christmas wonderlands. It was almost like a Christian Six Flags on steroids with all these extravagant decorations, fake snow, and of course you had Tammy Faye Bakker, a woman who loves glam. I remember, even as a little girl, her singing and all her lashes. They put together acres and acres of rides and little places you could stop. It was a wonderland for families to just go and see all this fabulousness.

Today, when it comes to great food, great people, and great shopping, I love going to Italy . It has everything. We always get a villa and we have a complete staff and it's a wonderful time. I've been with my mom and some of my closest friends, and I've been with my kids, too. I love to let them see things that they've studied in school from a historical perspective. It gives you so much history and great wine and cheese, no tannins. My sons love Japan  because it's so safe and clean, and they love a bidet. I do too. The shopping is so good and everyone is so sweet and kind, but it still gives you city living. The food is so good, and that's the one place that I'll allow them to sort of meander around without me being close behind them.

I've also been on a drag tour , so it seems like I've been everywhere lately, and a lot of time in New York and LA. If I didn't live in Atlanta, I would definitely live in Los Angeles. The traffic is much worse than Atlanta, but the weather is absolutely perfect and a lot of people are interested in what I'm interested in: entertainment and fashion. The girls take care of themselves very well in Los Angeles, and I've got wonderful friends there as well. They've got some of the best spots there, in particular the  Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center . That's one of my favorite places to go and take care of myself and relax.

Window, middle, or aisle seat?

Aisle, because I usually take longer flights and I want to get up and go to the bathroom without asking people to excuse me and get out of my way.

Pack light or overpack?

Overpack. Honey, I never go anywhere without three full-size Louis Vuitton bags. Even if it's just a weekend visit, I'm coming with a plethora of bags and carry-ons. You would think I'm moving away.

Favorite way to pass time on a plane

I'm the worst movie watcher in the world, so this is when I watch movies. If I go to the movies and I'm not on a flight, I go to sleep instantly. When I'm traveling, I can wake up and rewind it, and I can actually watch the whole movie. So I’ve now caught up on all of the movies that won Oscars. I’ll watch them, and then I'll watch them again. I'll watch them three times sometimes because I'll fall asleep.

Biggest travel fear

Someone losing my bags and my luggage not making it. That’s the nightmare. When I was going to Bluestone Manor for The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip , someone had actually gone through my luggage and pilfered quite a few items. Obviously I was filming a show and I think I had six full-size Louis Vuitton bags at that time. One of them came through the airport and it was totally open with the covers off. All I could think of was all my great outfits and not having my accessories with everything. Thankfully, we had such great cast members and Jill Zarin let me borrow a little workout outfit because they took some of my workout stuff. I guess you cannot have too many Chanel sneakers.

Best tip for fighting jet lag

Try to sleep on the flight, even if you have to take some melatonin. I love the Airbus A350 and A300, which have the lie-flat beds. I will do whatever I have to do to make sure I get a cabin where I can actually recline for total sleep mode.

Favorite travel snack

I loved it when they used to have those Walker shortbread cookies on Delta flights. Some time along the way they stopped carrying those, but that's my favorite.

Go-to drink order on a plane

My favorite travel drink is always club soda mixed with cranberry juice, half and half.

Must-have travel items

You can take it with you, and it keeps you hydrated and healthy. I travel so much and planes are so dehydrating, and there’s nothing worse than being dehydrated. It makes your skin look bad and you just don't feel good. So I'm a big proponent of alkaline supplements, particularly this one.

It is the best thing to put on your face—not just for taking off your makeup, but also for hydration, because the worst thing you can do is have a dry face and dry ass. It's thick enough that it hydrates the skin so you can have a perfect makeup application, but it also gets the makeup off and your skin is supple after you use it. I always have to have it in my bag, because of course I love a little makeup, honey.

I love to smell good. I'm definitely a smell girl. Parfums de Marly have some wonderful scents, but the thing that I love the most is their Delina hair mist. Sometimes when you're traveling, the water might be hard and you might have to do a dry shampoo, but this hair mist makes your hair look good and smell good. 

Going in and out of different nightclubs and things, sometimes you get that little smokiness to your hair and you can put this on and it brings it back to life if you don't have the time to do a deep shampoo and conditioning. If you're around guys that are smoking cigars, your hair smells like a dead rat, so you need this.

When you travel as much as I do, you're not always eating the best food, so I love vitamins. These are filled with collagen and everything that makes your skin look good. Being on television, your skin and body are so important. Viewers are so critical that it’s something you have to be very concerned about. I tell people makeup is a great thing, but makeup only looks good when it's sitting on beautiful skin.

This is a three-in-one body butter. You can put it on your lips, you can put it on your body, and it’s sold in little tiny packs and bigger sizes, too. It gives you such a natural sheen wherever you put it, it's really soft, and it's all natural. The scents are so good and the packaging is so neat and convenient, too. It's a small female-owned business and she's a sweetie pie.

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Solar Powered RV: How To Run Your Camper Off Solar

O ne of the greatest things about RV travel is the ability to go off-grid and totally immerse yourself in nature. The thing is, you will eventually run out of battery power doing so. Many people turn to generators to solve this problem, but generators are noisy and are not even allowed in some areas. You certainly don’t want to be running one 24/7, either.

For this reason, we much prefer the idea of creating a solar powered RV for your boondocking adventures.

The only problem? Many people are intimidated by the idea of putting solar power on RV campers. This is understandable; putting solar power in RV trailers and motorhomes can be a huge, expensive, and technical process. Fortunately, there are ways to make solar powered RVs more accessible to the average joe.

In this article, we will teach you how to run your RV off solar, breaking the process down and simplifying things so you can tackle the project with confidence. 

Note: This is a very simplified version of an RV solar power system. There are many things you can do differently to make the system work best for you, but this will get you started. 

THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO. THIS POST WAS WRITTEN BY JILL GREISING-MURSCHEL , A FAMILY TRAVEL AND RV LIVING EXPERT.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of RV travel posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for RV living:

Our Favorite RV Resources:

• Ultimate RV Living eBook
• Harvest Hosts : (save 15% off your first year and stay overnight at one of the many farms, breweries, and wineries across the country)
• Romely Insurance – (sign up for full timer’s RV insurance and save big)
• Rent An RV With Outdoorsy – (the Airbnb of RVs)
• CampScanner – (Snag reservations at sold-out campgrounds!)
• RV Sheets – (Camping World Queen Short sheets made just for RV mattresses)
• Best Sewer Hose – (popular sewer hose for RVs)
• Best RV Vacuum – (small but mighty vacuum)
• Berkey Water Filters – (the travel Berkey is used by so many RV owners to get clean drinking water)

How to Run Your RV Off Solar: What You Need

First, let’s talk about the RV solar supplies needed to get your off-grid electrical system up and running. Gather these items and you’ll be ready to jump into your solar project. 

Solar Panels

First, you will want to grab some solar panels. Many people put a lot of thought into figuring out how many panels to buy based on their electricity usage. Our advice? Skip the complicated math for now and simply get 2–4 panels, depending on what your budget can handle. It’s easy to add more panels down the line. 

We recommend this kit from Renogy , as it is incredibly easy to install and get wired into your system. 

Charge Controller

Another must-have piece of RV solar equipment is your solar charge controller. Without a charge controller, you can’t really connect your panels to your battery safely. The panels linked above come with a controller, but these components can be bought separately from one another if you prefer.

We recommend an MPPT charge controller over a PWM option because it will be a bit more efficient. However, either one will be fine as long as you get one that can handle the amperage put out by your solar panels. 

You’ll also need a bank of batteries in order to store the solar power your panels pull in. This may leave you wondering which is the best battery for RV solar.

In our opinion, the best battery for a camper is definitely a LiFePO4 (lithium-ion phosphate) battery. Fortunately, these are becoming more and more affordable as time goes on, and in our experience, even off-brand lithium battery options such as these work just fine. 

We like lithium batteries because they are 100% maintenance-free, relatively lightweight, and can be discharged completely without issues. They are also far safer to store in enclosed spaces where there’s little ventilation.

That said, if you need to cut costs somewhere, traditional flooded batteries should work fine, assuming you have the weight capacity and the ability to stay on top of battery maintenance, as well as a safely ventilated place to store them.

We also recommend investing in an inverter. As long as you connect your battery bank to your RV, you can use your solar power via your RV’s DC electrical system, which includes your fridge, lights, and vent fans. However, without an inverter, you will not be able to use anything on the AC side of things—meaning the air conditioner, microwave, and power outlets.

There are a couple of options here: You can choose to purchase a large inverter charger (see next paragraph) to take the place of your existing RV converter and wire the new inverter into your RV’s breaker box, or you can choose a smaller portable inverter that you will need to plug things into directly. There are also inverters that do not charge the batteries but can be hardwired into the RV’s system. 

We personally chose to install this inverter charger from Sungold , and it is very convenient when it works correctly, as it automatically switches between inverter mode and charger mode when we connect/disconnect shore power. Unfortunately, the inverter broke after only a month of use, meaning we couldn’t use the inverter or charge our batteries for a couple of months while we fought the warranty folks to fix our issue. Because of this, we kind of regretted this choice and don’t necessarily recommend this product.

On top of the troubles we had with our inverter charge, installing such an inverter is a bit more advanced. Therefore, for this article, we will be focusing on using a more basic inverter such as this one .

No matter what inverter you buy, make sure it is a pure sine wave inverter rather than a modified sine wave version. (If you buy a small inverter from, say, AutoZone, chances are it will be modified sine wave and of no use for this application.) You will also need to make sure your batteries can provide enough power to get the inverter running. Three 100 amp hour batteries are just enough to run our 3000-watt inverter. 

Related post: 34 RV Must Haves

Breakers and Wires

You will also need some breakers and wires. 

These include:

• Battery cables — Bigger is better, so we went with 4/0 gauge wiring for our bank of three 100-amp-hour batteries.
• DC circuit breaker — This goes between the solar panels and the charge controller. Choose the amperage accordingly. If you’re installing the two 100-amp-hour panel kit linked above, this 25-amp breaker will work.
• Manual reset inline fuse/circuit breaker — This goes between the charge controller and the battery. Choose amperage accordingly. If you’re installing the two 100 amp hour panel kit linked above, this 40 amp breaker will work.
• Wiring from the solar panel kit — You might need to add additional 10-gauge wire depending on the length of the runs.

Creating Your Solar Powered RV Setup

Now that you have all of the things you need, the next thing to do is actually install your solar power for RV living. We’ve tried to keep everything simple and provided easy-to-follow instructions below. 

Related Post: Pros and Cons of RV Living Full Time

Create Your Battery Bank

The first thing you will need to do is get your battery bank hooked up and ready to go. If possible, choose a place that is near the location of your factory-installed battery in order to make it easy to tie the new bank into the RV’s DC system. Connect the batteries together in parallel using the battery cables mentioned above.

This video will help you do that:

From there, you will just need to connect the battery bank to the RV’s electrical system using the same cables that were used to hook up the old batteries, using the positive post on one end of the bank and the negative post on the opposite end. If this is not possible due to the location of the battery bank, you will need connect the bank to the RV’s fuse panel, which is a bit more complicated. 

How to Mount Solar Panels to RV Roof

The next thing you’ll need to do to install solar power for an RV is learn how to mount solar panels to RV roof. 

Start by figuring out where you will mount the panels. Clean the area well. Attach the brackets included in the panel kit to the panels using the included screws. Place the panels on the roof—ideally with the brackets resting on top of frame studs—and create pilot holes using a drill. Move the one panel out of the way, put RV roof sealant in each pilot hole, replace the panel, screw the panel onto the roof, and cover the screw and the bottom of the bracket in sealant. You can completely coat the top of the bracket with sealant as well if you want more peace of mind.

Repeat this process with all other panels you install, then give the sealant a day or two to fully cure.

Connecting the Panels to the Charge Controller

Using the included cables, plug the panels into one another using the instructions in the video below. We recommend connecting them in parallel rather than series. 

Next, run your solar panel cables into the RV to the place where your charge controller will be mounted (Preferably near the battery bank). Many people will drill a hole in the roof, but we just ran the cable through a gap in our slide seal, using cord covers to keep everything tidy and in place. You could also go through an existing hole in the roof.

Connect wires to the DC breaker, add a wire of the same size to each side of the breaker output, and connect these wires to the charge controller using the instructions included in the kit. Be sure you screw them down tight, but be careful not to overtighten as this can irreparably damage the inserts.

Linking the Charge Controller to the Batteries

Run a 10-gauge wire from the positive output of the charge controller to the inline fuse/breaker and then to the battery bank, connecting the positive to the same positive terminal/post you used to connect to the DC system. Do the same on the negative side but without the breaker in the middle. 

Once this is done, your solar panels should be charging your batteries and you will officially have an RV with solar power. If you wish to be able to monitor your battery charge level, we recommend a battery monitor. We have this one from Renogy and it has served us well.

Adding an Inverter to the Mix

The last step in creating your solar powered camper? Your inverter. As mentioned above, an inverter is not entirely necessary, but it sure does make your solar RV power system more usable, and the GIANDEL product linked above is incredibly easy to hook up and use. 

All you have to do is connect the cables from the positive side of the inverter to the main positive post on your battery bank and do the same with the negative. 

From there, you can choose to plug anything you need to use directly into the inverter, or you can plug the entire RV into the inverter using a 20-amp adapter. Plugging the RV in will allow you to use your outlets and possibly your microwave (depending on the inverter chosen and your microwave’s wattage). If you have a soft starter installed on your RV air conditioner, you may also be able to use that (though it will drain your battery bank very quickly). Keep in mind, you won’t be able to run everything in the RV at once. 

If you prefer an inverter charger, you will need to learn how to hardwire it in. Many RVers seem to like the Victron inverter charger . 

There you have it, everything you need to know to create a very basic solar powered RV setup. If you’ve been dreaming of having RV solar, why not order the supplies you need and get started right away? You won’t regret it!

The post Solar Powered RV: How To Run Your Camper Off Solar appeared first on Let's Travel Family .

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Reention Dorado Plus Battery Pack 48V 14Ah 672Wh Aventon pace 500 NCM ebike Replacement Batteries

About this item.

• 350W 500W 750W Folding electric bike battery pack
• Rated Voltage: 48V Rated Capacity:14Ah Watt hours:672Wh
• Battery with 54.6v 2A Charger
• Lithium battery pack built with quality cells and BMS
• ebike battery Aventon Pace 500 electric bike (Not for Pace 350)
• Battery size: 390*61.4*104mm (15.35inches long)

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Product information, looking for specific info, product description, reention dorado plus 48v 14ah 672wh ebike frame intube battery pack.

Battery Type: Integrated ebike frame intube Lithium Battery

Rated Voltage: 48V

Rated Capacity:14Ah

Watt hours:672Wh

Battery Size: 390*61.4*104mm

Shell Material: Aluminum+ABS

Recommend to motoe power: 250W-750W

Battery Cell: 18650 powerful cells

Battery Charge Voltage: 54.6V

Discharge cut-off voltage:39V

BMS function: Over-Current Protection,Over-Discharge Protection, Over-Charge Protection,Short-Circuit Protection

Package List:

1x 48V 14Ah Batter pack

1 x 54.6V 2A Charger

Reention Dorado plus size

Please this is a 390mm(15.3Inches) long battery, Not 458mm(18Inches) long. It is very important and must confirm you buy the correct length to replace old batteries.

Please take care of your battery length for the ebike frame. There is another model which is 458mm long. The battery length in this list are all 390mm long.

1. Battery with a power switch button, press about 3s to turn off power

2. Led display show the electricity level

3. USB 5V output for cellphone charging application

Please check the male connector in the ebike frame.

This battery model fits for 2prongs connector .

If need 6prongs connector, please get contact with us before an order

• Which kind of cells are built in battery pack?

Most of our battery packs are made up of authentic Grade A 18650 battery cells . In every product link description, you can check which cells are built in the battery pack you are intereted

2. What is a BMS?

Battery management system is the the circuit board that protect your battery pack and make sure it is safely.

1. How to choose replacement battery?

• Fistly should make sure if the new battery pack size/case is suitable for ebike.
• Second, usually the battery voltage must be the same if you're not sure whether the motor has wider working voltage. For example, old battery pack is 36V, then new battery pack should be the same, can not be 48V or 52V.
• Third, If your old battery pack is 10.4ah, and the battery case size is the same then you can choose higher capacity like 12ah or more to reach longer distance

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Reention Dorado Battery pack 48V 14Ah

Dorado Plus battery

Reention Dorado Batteries

What's in the box.

• Battery and charger

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Customers like the performance and value of the battery. They mention that it performs perfectly and has no problems so far. They appreciate the good price.

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Customers are satisfied with the performance of the battery. They mention that it performs perfectly and works without error. Some customers also say that it has no problems so far.

"This battery fit and works perfectly in my American Flyer E-Wave Tour ebike . American Flyer wanted $900.00 for a replacement...." Read more

"...Have done two 30+ mile trail rides with it, no problems so far . Am very happy with the item, cheaper price than buying from Aventon. Thank you!" Read more

"... Worked with out error . I am happy as of now; i will edit this post if i have any problems with it. But so far so good." Read more

"...It lasts longer than the Aventon original, a little heavier but works great ." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the battery. They mention it's a very good price.

"...American Flyer wanted $900.00 for a replacement. This one was soooo much cheaper . Took the ebike out for a 30 mile run and it performed perfectly...." Read more

"...Am very happy with the item, cheaper price than buying from Aventon. Thank you!" Read more

"...As long as you are happy with 14AH, this is a very good price . Just be sure you have the right dimensions. 390mm x 61.3mm x 104mm...." Read more

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