As someone who’s spent the last decade exploring the backcountry and advising others on outdoor gear, I can tell you one thing: reliable power is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a weekend camper, a full-time van lifer, or an outdoor professional, keeping your devices charged is crucial for safety, communication, and comfort. The Anker 737 weight and capabilities have quickly made it a standout option, but the world of portable power is vast. This guide will break down everything you need to know about choosing the right power solution for your next adventure, from simple power bank five below options to robust power stations for CPAP camping.
Before diving into specific products, let’s demystify some key terms. Understanding these will save you headaches (and dead batteries) later. The first is wattage. This measures how much power a device consumes. Your phone might use 5-15 watts, while a CPAP machine can draw 60-80 watts (or more!). The second is mAh (milliampere-hour) or Wh (watt-hour). These measure the capacity of a power bank or power station – essentially, how much energy it can store. A higher mAh/Wh means more charging cycles. Finally, consider the output ports: USB-A, USB-C, and AC outlets (battery pack with 110v outlet).
Think about what you need to power. Is it just phones and headlamps? Or do you need to run a CPAP machine, a cooler (like the Anker PowerCooler), or other higher-draw devices? This will dictate the size and type of power solution you need. REI Expert Advice offers a great breakdown of these concepts: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/portable-power.html
Here’s a quick way to estimate your needs:
This total will help you choose a power bank or station with sufficient capacity.
For basic needs like charging phones and small devices, a power bank (also known as a portable charger) is often sufficient. You can find options at almost any price point. The power bank five below options are great for emergencies or occasional use, but don’t expect high capacity or fast charging. For a step up, consider the Zgear power bank or the Q Optics battery pack.
The Anker 737 power bank review consistently highlights its impressive capacity (24K mAh) and Power Delivery (PD) fast charging. It’s a bit heavier than some options, but the extra power is worth it for many. Another excellent choice is the Goal Zero Venture 75 power bank, known for its rugged durability and solar charging compatibility. I’ve personally used the Venture 75 on several multi-day backpacking trips and it’s never let me down. The Goal Zero Venture 35 review shows it's a lighter, more compact option for shorter trips.
Don't overlook features like a built-in cable (best portable charger with built in cable) or a flashlight (portable charger with flashlight). Some power banks even offer “pass-through charging,” allowing you to charge the power bank and your device simultaneously (power bank use while charging). The Anker Flex Collection Mobile Power offers a good balance of features and portability.
When you need to power larger devices or run appliances, a portable power station is the way to go. These are essentially larger, more powerful versions of power banks, often with AC outlets. The Anker 511 portable power station is a popular entry-level option, offering a good balance of capacity and affordability. For more demanding applications, like running a CPAP machine or a small refrigerator, you’ll need a larger station.
For those of us who rely on CPAP machines, ensuring a consistent power supply while camping is critical. A best portable power supply for CPAP machine needs to have sufficient capacity to run the machine all night, plus some reserve for other devices. The best power station for CPAP camping will also have a pure sine wave inverter, which is essential for sensitive electronics like CPAP machines.
I’ve tested several options, and the best portable power station for CPAP is often a larger model like the Jackery Explorer 1000 or the Bluetti EB70S. However, for shorter trips or lighter setups, a combination of a high-capacity power bank and a DC-to-DC converter can also work. A battery operated CPAP for camping is also an option, but these can be expensive and may not offer the same level of therapy as your regular machine. Consider a cpap battery backup for camping as a secondary solution.
Van life demands even more power than traditional camping. You’re often running lights, fans, refrigerators, and other appliances. The best portable power station for van life will depend on your energy consumption, but a larger station (1000Wh or more) is often necessary. Consider a system that can be charged via solar panels for truly off-grid living. The banks rv power pack and best battery charger for rv are also important considerations for van lifers.
Once you’ve chosen your power solution, you need to think about how to recharge it. Here are your options:
Remember to factor in charging time. A large power station can take several hours to recharge, even with a fast charger. The how to charge helix power bank instructions will provide specific details for that model.
When using portable power, safety is paramount. Here are a few tips:
For the adventurous DIYer, building an ammo can battery box can be a cost-effective way to create a custom power solution. This involves mounting a battery (like a sealed lead-acid battery) inside an ammo can and adding fuses, terminals, and outlets. However, this requires electrical knowledge and should be done with caution. The USDA Forest Service provides safety guidelines for outdoor electrical work: https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/safety/electrical-safety
The best portable power solution for you depends on your individual needs and budget. Start by assessing your power consumption, then choose a power bank or station that can meet those needs. Don’t forget to consider charging options and safety precautions. With a little planning, you can stay powered up and enjoy your next adventure to the fullest. And remember, the charge phone when camping struggle is a thing of the past with the right gear!
Disclaimer: I am an independent outdoor writer and adventurer. I may receive affiliate commissions from some of the products mentioned in this article.