Camping isn’t just about roasting marshmallows and sleeping under the stars anymore. Today’s campers bring along smartphones, GPS devices, drones, lights, mini-fridges, and even Starlink for off-grid internet. Whether you’re deep in the woods or relaxing lakeside at the cabin, one thing’s for sure—you need reliable power.
That’s where portable power stations come in. These compact, rechargeable units let you power your devices anywhere without gas, fumes, or noise. In this guide, we’ll break down the best portable power solutions for camping, how to choose the right one, and which trusted brands we recommend.
Let’s dive in, power up, and enjoy the great outdoors—fully charged.
⚡ Why You Need Portable Power When Camping
Camping with kids? Need to power a CPAP? Want to run lights, fans, or charge a laptop? Here’s why a portable power station is essential:
- Stay Connected: Charge your phone, tablet, or even power your Starlink.
- Stay Safe: Run emergency radios, flashlights, or medical devices like a CPAP.
- Stay Comfortable: Power fans, heated blankets, mini coolers, or coffee makers.
- Stay Entertained: Watch movies on a tablet, fly your drone, or keep the tunes going.
🏕️ What to Look For in a Camping Power Station
When choosing a portable power solution for camping, here are the key features to focus on:
✅ Battery Capacity (Wh)
Measured in watt-hours (Wh), this tells you how long your station can power a device. For camping, aim for 300–1500Wh depending on your gear.
- Day Trip: 300–500Wh (phones, lights, fans)
- Weekend Trip: 500–1000Wh (mini fridge, Starlink, CPAP)
- Extended Camping: 1000Wh+ (TV, power tools, laptops)
✅ Output Options
Look for a variety of ports:
- AC outlets: For laptops, mini coolers, small appliances
- USB-A/C ports: For phones, tablets, drones
- 12V carports: For inflators, car fridges
✅ Solar Charging Capability
Want to stay off-grid longer? Choose a unit with solar panel compatibility so you can recharge during the day.
✅ Portability
Look for handles, compact design, and lightweight builds. You don’t want to lug around a 60-pound station for a quick weekend trip.
🏆 Best Portable Power Stations for Camping (Trusted Picks)
Here are our top recommended picks—reliable, rugged, and camping-ready.
🔋 1. Jackery Explorer 500 – The Camper’s Favorite
Capacity: 518Wh
Weight: 13.3 lbs
Best for: Weekend getaways, lights, phones, fans, CPAP
With its lightweight build and solid capacity, the Jackery Explorer 500 is a camping classic. It powers essentials without the bulk.
🔋 2. Anker 535 Portable Power Station – Budget-Friendly Camping Power
Capacity: 512Wh
Weight: 16.75 lbs
Best for: Campers looking for value and performance
Solid build quality, long-lasting battery, and enough juice for phones, lights, and small appliances.
🔋 3. BLUETTI EB3A Portable Power Station – Lightweight & Solar-Ready
Capacity: 268Wh
Weight: 10.14 lbs
Best for: Solo campers, backpackers, day trips
Fast charging, solar-compatible, and super portable. The EB3A is ideal for short trips or minimalist campers.
🔋 4. ECOFLOW RIVER 2 Pro – Ultra-Fast Charging & Expandable
Capacity: 768Wh
Weight: 17.2 lbs
Best for: Weekend campers who want a flexible setup
Recharge 0–100% in just 70 minutes with AC. Pair with solar for off-grid camping. The RIVER 2 Pro balances portability and power.
🔋 5. Goal Zero Yeti 700 – Rugged Power for the Wild
Capacity: 677Wh
Weight: 16 lbs
Best for: Rugged campers and cabin trips
A dependable choice built for the outdoors. Weather-resistant, reliable, and compatible with Goal Zero solar panels.
☀️ Want to Camp Off-Grid? Go Solar.
Pairing your portable power station with solar panels gives you limitless power outdoors. Here are some solar generator kits perfect for camping:
🔆 Anker 535 Solar Generator (with Solar Panels)
Ideal for weekend warriors. Durable, easy to set up, and recharges fast in the sun.
🔆 BLUETTI AC70 with 200W Solar Panel
More juice and faster solar recharging for longer off-grid trips.
🔆 EF ECOFLOW River 2 Pro with 220W Solar Panel
A compact and expandable solar camping kit.
🔧 Bonus Tips for Using Power Stations While Camping
- Use LED lights: They draw less power and last longer.
- Charge during the day: Even if you’re not using solar, get everything fully topped off before sunset.
- Keep it dry: Use a weatherproof case or tuck it under a canopy.
- Use eco-mode or low-power settings: Especially at night to extend battery life.
- Bring backup cables: USB-C, AC plugs, and carport adapters.
🎒 Final Thoughts: Stay Powered, Stay Prepared
Camping is about freedom—and nothing says independence like having your own power source in the wild. Whether you’re recharging your drone for that perfect aerial shot, keeping the Starlink router going, or just lighting up your tent, portable power solutions for camping are a game changer.
Stick with trusted brands like Anker, BLUETTI, ECOFLOW, Goal Zero, and Jackery. And remember: Preparedness, resilience, and adventure are just a power station away.