We all rely on our devices more than ever, from smartphones and tablets to wireless earbuds and cameras. But let’s face it, batteries rarely last as long as we need them to. That’s where a good power bank is an essential camping accessory. Whether you’re commuting, travelling, hiking or heading out on a camping trip, the right portable charger can keep your devices powered and your day on track.
This guide is designed to make your decision easier. I’ll break down the key factors to look for, like battery capacity, charging speed, portability, and extra features, and explain what really matters for different types of users. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for, so you can choose a power bank that fits your needs without wasting money on features you don’t need.
Why Trust Leonie
Firstly, I have a very old phone with a compromised battery (and I refuse to get a new one) so I’ve spent years testing (and relying on) a wide range of charging devices daily, from tiny pocket chargers to high-capacity travel power banks when commuting, long workdays, travelling, and multi-day camping trips. I focus on practical use, not just specs on a box, so I know what really matters: reliability, ease of use, portability, and value for money. My goal is to give you honest, hands-on insights so you can make a choice that actually works for your lifestyle.
Our Testing Process
I test portable power banks through multiple rounds of testing, including full-device charging cycles for phones, tablets, and other gadgets, speed tests using both USB-A and USB-C ports and simultaneous multi-device charging. I also evaluate portability, build quality, and ease of use in everyday scenarios like commuting, travelling and camping. Finally, I track how long it takes the power bank itself to recharge and monitor battery life over time, so I can give an honest assessment of performance, reliability, and value for money.
This article is regularly updated with new products, price changes and availability to ensure you're getting the best guidance in 2025.
Power Bank Checklist
- Capacity (mAh): Enough to charge your devices multiple times
- Output Power & Ports: USB-A, USB-C, wireless; check fast-charging compatibility (PD/QC)
- Input / Recharge Time: Higher input = faster recharge of the power bank itself
- Portability & Weight: Consider size vs. how you plan to carry it
- Safety Features: Overcharge, overheat, short-circuit protection; look for CE/FCC/RoHS certification
- Durability: Rugged or reinforced casing for outdoor use
- Extra Features: LED charge indicators, built-in cables, or foldable stand
- This gives readers a concise way to compare options before buying
Best Power Banks of 2025
Best Overall: Belkin Boost Charge 20K with Integrated Cable
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13239433
- RRP: £34.99
- Weight: 57g
- Capacity: 20,000mAh
- Output Ports: Up to 30W total across integrated USB-C / USB-C / USB-A
- Re- Charging Time: Approximately 8 hours
Three Things To Know:
- Built–In Lightening Cable - You don’t need to carry a separate cable for your iPhone, making this perfect for minimal packing
- Massive 20,000mAh Capacity - Enough to charge an iPhone multiple times or top up several devices at once
- Multi-Device Charging - With additional USB-A and USB-C ports, you can charge up to three devices simultaneously
With 20,000 mAh of battery, this power bank easily gets me through several days of heavy phone use without needing a wall plug, a real weight off my mind when I’m camping. I can fully charge my iPhone multiple times, usually around 4 to 5 full charges depending on what else I’ve got plugged in, and it’ll take an iPhone 16 Pro from 0–50% in just 26 minutes, which is impressively fast for a portable charger of this size.
What we like
- Fast acting
- Sustainable
- Integrated cable
Things to consider
- Heavy
- Integrated cable could be a weak spot
Our verdict: A fast acting, sustainable power bank that strikes a smart balance between cost and performance.
Get this if: You want a sustainable, fast charging, compact power bank.
- Read more: Belkin BoostCharge Power Bank 20K with Integrated Cable review
- Check availability at Belkin and Amazon
SQUIRREL_13239433
Best Budget: Belkin BoostChargePower Bank 20K
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13330281
- RRP: £34.99
- Weight: 520g
- Capacity: 20,000mAh
- Output Ports: 3 ports total: 1 × USB-C (in/out), 2 × USB-A
- Re-Charging Time: 8 hours
Three Things to Know
- Massive Capacity – With 20,000 mAh, this power bank can recharge most smartphones multiple times, making it perfect for long trips, travel, or camping when outlets aren’t available
- Solid but Heavy – It’s built tough and feels reliable, but at over 500g, it’s not exactly pocket-friendly. It’s best suited for backpacks or travel bags rather than everyday pocket carry
- Simple and Reliable Charging – Between the USB-C and dual USB-A ports, it’s very straightforward to use. The LED indicators are clear, and fast charging works well for phones and tablets, though speeds drop if you’re charging multiple devices at once
The re-charging speed is impressive on this power bank. It can be recharged at a good rate via USB-C input, and the inclusion of pass-through charging means I don’t have to wait to charge the bank before using it, and it can charge itself while charging my phone.
With an impressive 20,000 mAh of battery, this Belkin claims the power bank can charge an iPhone 15 Pro from 0 to 50% in 35 minutes, or a Galaxy S23 Plus from 0 to 50% in 45 minutes. However, I’m able to get my (very old) iPhone 8 from 1% to 50% in about 20 minutes, and to 100% in about 30 minutes, even while I’m using it, which is very useful on hikes and camping trips.
What we like
- High capacity
- Multiple ports
- Eco-friendly design
- Reliable
- Fast charging
Things to consider
- Slightly heavy
- No integrated cable
Our verdict:The Belkin BoostCharge Power Bank 20K offers substantial capacity and eco-friendly design, making it a reliable choice for those needing dependable power on the go.
Get this if: You want a powerful charging block and don't mind the inevitable extra weight.
- Read more: Belkin BoostCharge 20K review
- Check availability at Belkin and Amazon
SQUIRREL_13330281
Best for Lengthy Camping Trips: Anker 337 Power Bank (PowerCore 26K)
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13077886
- RRP: £44.90
- Weight: 495g
- Capacity: 26,000mAh
- Output Ports: 3 × USB-A (5V⎓3A each, total 6A
- Re- Charging Time: 6.5 hours
Three Things to Know
- Massive Capacity – With 26,800 mAh, this power bank can fully charge multiple smartphones several times or even handle tablets and other devices, making it ideal for long trips or heavy use
- Triple Device Charging – It has three USB-A output ports, so you can charge up to three devices simultaneously, though total output is shared across all ports
- Travel-Friendly Design – Despite its high capacity, it’s airline-compliant and reasonably portable, weighing just under 500 g with a sturdy, durable build suitable for everyday carry or travel
If you're planning an extended trip, Anker's PowerCore 337 is one of the best power banks for camping, thanks to its huge 26,800mAh capacity. According to the makers, it can top up your phone more than six times, or recharge tablets at least twice – about enough to last you a week.
The Anker has one of the best selection of ports of all the power banks we’ve tried; you get three USB-As and two Micro-USBs, and we didn’t have any issues charging three different devices simultaneously. Anker also keeps things simple with just one ON button and useful charge level indicator lights.
Admittedly, the Anker 337 is heavy, at 495g, so it’s better suited to camping trips with a vehicle.
What we like
- Large charge
- Multi-device compatible
- Sleek design
- Includes two Micro USB cables
Things to consider
- Heavy
Our verdict: A high capacity power bank that, although heavy, will see you through a lot of charges.
Get this if: You want a powerful charging block and don't mind the inevitable extra weight.
- Read more: Anker 337 Power Bank (PowerCore 26K) review
- Check availability at Anker
SQUIRREL_13077886
Best for Solar Charging and Outdoor Adventures: Goal Zero Venture 35
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13077875
- RRP: £69.99
- Weight: 286g
- Capacity: 9,600mAh
- Output Ports: USB-A: 5V, up to 3A (15W max) / USB-C (18W PD): 5–12V, up to 3A
- Re- Charging Time: 3 hours
Three Things to Know
- Rugged and Outdoor-Ready – With an IP67 rating, this power bank is dustproof and waterproof, making it ideal for camping, hiking, or any adventure where conditions are unpredictable
- Compact but Capable – At 9,600 mAh, it’s smaller than some high-capacity models but still provides multiple charges for smartphones, making it easy to carry without adding much weight
- Flexible Charging Options – Supports USB-C, USB-A, and solar charging, allowing you to recharge via wall, car, or Goal Zero solar panels, giving you versatile power solutions on the go
With its metal and rubber exterior, Goal Zero's power bank has a different look from others on test. It's designed to be a robust option for life outdoors and it does indeed feel solid and well-made. It's also waterproof when not in use.
Unlike many of the best power banks you can get, this one comes with a useful built-in torch too.
While you can buy the larger 19,200mAh Venture 75, this 35 model holds 9,600mAh, which is enough to top up a phone around three times. It's more expensive and 60g heavier than the Energizer, which has a larger 10,000mAh capacity, and doesn't have the Energizer's Micro-USB port either, but you're paying for the durable, waterproof exterior here.
What we like
- Durable
- Compatible with multiple devices
- Charge level indicator
- Built-in light
Things to consider
- Lower capacity than some cheaper options
- Fiddly port flaps
Our verdict: A reliable device from a top brand that will not fail in the rain and which will charge any device you attach to it, but could have better capacity.
Get this if: You want a power bank that is ideal for short trips in the great outdoors that ia durable, waterproof and has enough battery capacity to recharge a phone up to three times.
- Read more: Goal Zero Venture 35 review
SQUIRREL_13077875
Best for Style and Quality Construction: OtterBox Portable Powerbank
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13086184
- RRP: £40.00 (approximately)
- Weight: 450g
- Capacity: 20,000mAh
- Output Ports: Two ports: USB-C and USB-A. Both support up to 18W output (various voltage/amperage combos) for fast charging
- Re- Charging Time: 4 - 8 hours (depending on power output)
Three Things to Know
- Fast Charging Support - With up to 18W output via USB-C and USB-A, it can charge phones, tablets, and other devices quickly
- Solid Build and Reliability - True to OtterBox’s reputation, it’s ruggedly built and feels durable for daily carry or travel
- Recharging Time - It refuels faster than many 20K banks, taking around 4–5 hours with a proper fast wall charger
Straight out of the box, we liked the OtterBox's sleek leather-effect finish and gold band. There's just one power button, and it switches off automatically to stop the battery draining.
When testing, we had no issues topping up two devices over 36 hours, so we'd be confident using it for a single phone over a full weekend. If you can survive with less power, you could cut weight by choosing the slimmer 10,000mAh or 15,000mAh model. This version is fairly heavy, at just under 450g, and slightly too bulky for a jacket pocket.
What we like
- Durable
- High-quality feel
- Long-lasting power for multi-day use
- Multi-device charging capabilities
Things to consider
- Too heavy for a multi-day hike
- Only one cable in pack
Our verdict: A sleek and durable device with a hefty 20,000maH charging capacity, the OtterBox Fast Charge Power Bank makes for a useful camping companion.
Get this if: You're looking for a very durable power bank.
- Read more: OtterBox 20,000mAh Portable Power Bank review
- Check availability at Amazon
SQUIRREL_13086184
Best for Daily iPhone Use: Anker 622 Magnetic Battery (MagGo)
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13077874
- RRP: £47.00
- Weight: 142g
- Capacity: 5,000mAh
- Output Ports: USB-C side port
- Re- Charging Time: 2.5 hours
Three Things to Know
- MagSafe-Compatible - Snaps securely onto iPhone 12/13/14/15 models with MagSafe for wireless charging on the go
- Compact with Built-In Stand - Slim, lightweight design includes a foldable stand so you can prop up your phone while charging
- Recharge Time - Takes around 2.5 hours to fully recharge via USB-C with a suitable wall charger
Sleek, lightweight and slim enough to fit in your pocket, Anker's magnetic power bank is a great option for short camping trips and day hikes. It snaps onto the back of your phone and charges it speedily, although it can heat up a little bit.
The design includes a kick stand, which can take some pressure when in place, and allows for hands-free video calls.
Although Anker doesn't say this power bank is compatible with newer iPhones, it worked perfectly well with the iPhone 14 we used. On the downside, it doesn't charge Android models, or iPhones with non-magnetic cases, which does limit its versatility.
What we like
- Magnetic
- Slim profile
- Quick charging
- In-built stand
- Stylish
Things to consider
- incompatible with Androids and iPhones with non-magnetic cases
- Could be grippier
- Can heat up a little
Our verdict: A handy lightweight portable charger specifically for iPhones and useful for days out
Get this if: You're looking for a good charger with an in-built stand
- Read more: Anker 622 Magnetic Battery review
- Check availability at
SQUIRREL_13077874
Also consider...
If you're looking for a more powerful device to take on your next campervan trip, or you're off on a camping holiday where you plan to stay put, a power station could work well. Read our review of the Energizer Max Power Station 307Wh/300W below.
Energizer Max Power Station 307Wh/300W
Best for family camping trips
SQUIRREL_TEXT_13077908
- Capacity: 96,000mAh
- Weight: 4.5kg
A mighty battery with multiple outlets, including a three-pin plug socket, the Energizer Max Power Station 307Wh/300WA is a lifesaver when you go camping with children. About the size of a toaster, it's a hefty piece of kit, but on review we found the gadget was a perfect energy solution for long camping trips.
We powered an energy-hungry gaming laptop and three phones simultaneously on test — the variety of outlets and ability to switch between AC/DC means any device up to 150W is compatible. It offers so much power, you don’t need to worry about charging phones and tablets for at least a week.
Pros: multiple outlets, easy-to-read LCD screen, offers an impressive amount of power
Cons: heavy
Reviewed by Fergus Collins
SQUIRREL_13077908
Looking for a solar charger? Read our review of the Forclaz 10w portable solar panel.
What to look for
Battery size
The first element to consider is battery size. For day trips, you can get away with a 10,000mAh-capacity power bank, but if you're heading out for a longer getaway or need to keep a few devices topped up, we'd recommend something bigger, like a 20,000mAh option.
Outlet options
Most of the best power banks come with a couple of USB-A ports and a USB-C port, while others also have a Micro-USB slot for versatility. Depending on your charging set-up, you may need your own cables and a plug adaptor if you don't have a USB socket for mains charging.
Portability
You'll need to balance battery capacity with weight when choosing the best power bank for you. The higher the capacity, the heavier the power bank is likely to be, so if you're not driving to your destination, it might be worth considering a smaller model.
Voltage
If you plan to charge big devices, you might want to think about the power bank's voltage. While laptops and larger electronics usually need 12V-20V to charge, phones, tablets and other small gadgets will use 5V.
Never miss a review
Sign up to our free Tried & Tested newsletter for the latest product recommendations straight from the trails.
Have we missed any power banks you'd like to see reviewed? Want to share your experience with any of the above models? Contact leonie.helm@ourmedia.co.uk
