It’s not easy to find backpacking power banks suitable for ultralight trips since most of them are heavy.
If you want to make a wise choice, have a look at our guide where we’ve chosen the best power banks based on their capacity and weight.
Key Specs
Weight: 4.16 ounces (118 grams)
Capacity: 5000 mAh
Price: $
PROS
✅ Ultralight
✅ High-Speed Charging (12W)
CONS
❌ Modest capacity
The Anker 321 Power Bank is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a ultralight way to charge your devices. It comes with both USB-A and USB-C ports, a strong battery capacity of 5,200 mAh, and safety features to keep your devices safe. This power bank provides a dependable solution to keep your essential devices charged while you’re on the move.
It’s worth highlighting that during a hike, this power bank should last around 2 days with normal use for your phone, watch, and hiking lights.
So, when it comes to most outdoor adventures, having this reliable companion ensures your devices stay powered up. However, if you’re planning for a longer trip, continue scrolling down.
Key Specs
Weight: 5.29 ounces (150 grams)
Capacity: 10 000 mAh
Price: $
PROS
✅ Durable
✅ Favorite among ultralight hikers
CONS
❌ Materials could be better
The Nitecore NB10000 Gen 2 Power Bank is an excellent choice if you need a lightweight yet robust charging solution. Most ultralight backpackers prefer this one.
With its 10,000mAh capacity, carbon fiber design, and the ability to charge two devices simultaneously, it’s a perfect fit for all outdoor activities and emergencies.
We really like how it’s lightweight, but there’s an small issue with its design. The power bank has sharp edges that might protrude from your backpack, which can cause wear and tear on your backpack fabric, so be mindful of that. Despite this, it’s still the best overall option.
Key Specs
Weight: 7.48 ounces (212 grams)
Capacity: 10 000 mAh
Price: $
PROS
✅ Reasonably powerful
✅ Durable
CONS
❌ Not the fastest to charge
The Anker Portable Charger, also known as the PowerCore Slim 10K, is a real lifesaver for anyone who’s experienced the frustration of their phone battery dying when they need it the most. With a substantial 10,000mAh capacity, this power bank has become a trusted companion for our lightweight adventures.
However, it’s important to note that there’s room for improvement in terms of charging speed. It can only charge devices at 5 volts and 2 amps, and the power bank itself takes quite a while to recharge.
Nevertheless, the positive aspects of this portable charger, such as its durability and capacity, outweigh the drawbacks, making it a valuable addition to any ultralight backpacker’s gear.
Key Specs
Weight: 4.6 ounces (130 grams)
Capacity: 6700 mAh
Price: $$
PROS
✅ Flip out USB output for recharging
✅ Metal body
CONS
❌ Charging hinge durability
The Goal Zero Flip 24 is a reliable and compact solution for keeping your devices charged while you’re on the move.
It has a 6,700mAh charge capacity, which falls in between the options in this guide. This means it can recharge your phone multiple times or provide a significant boost for larger devices like tablets.
The sturdy metal construction adds to its durability. However, some users have reported that it may not work well in extremely cold conditions due to its metal body.
During our tests, we observed concerns about the hinge for the charging connector, particularly over extended use. Nevertheless, with careful handling, it proves to be a dependable middle-ground choice that requires minimal cables.
Key Specs
Weight: 5.99 ounces (170 grams)
Capacity: 10 000 mAh
Price: $
PROS
✅ Extremely affordable
✅ Charges fast
CONS
❌ Capacity is a bit lower than claimed
The Poweradd 10,000mAh power bank is a convenient way to keep your devices charged with a decent charging speed.
However, it’s important to be aware that while the power bank is still effective and can significantly extend your battery life, the actual output capacity might be closer to 7,200mAh rather than the advertised 10,000mAh.
Additionally, a few users have reported some quality issues after a couple of weeks of use, but it’s worth mentioning that the manufacturer has been helpful in resolving these issues. So, keep this in mind when making your purchase.
All things considered, this power bank offers good value as a budget-friendly option for ultralight backpackers with most charging needs.
When choosing the right backpacking power bank, understanding its capacity, power output, and compatibility is vital.
Capacity is how much electricity it can store, measured in mAh, Ah, or Wh. To calculate your needs, consider your device’s battery capacity, but remember that power transfer isn’t 100% efficient, so it’s wise to add extra capacity.
Check the power bank’s output voltage and amperage, and choose a reputable brand to ensure safe charging.
Trip duration matters, as smaller power banks suffice for quick getaways, while longer trips may need larger ones. Based on our experience, a power bank with over 10,000mAh capacity can work if you have periodic access to an outlet.
Consider these factors when choosing the ideal backpacking power bank for your needs. For additional insights and tips on power banks, check out our detailed post here.
