Best Portable Power Station for Camping Trips

Aug 12, 2025

Camping’s great—until your phone dies halfway through snapping Bigfoot.
Short answer: The Jackery Explorer 1000 tops the list for power, durability, and versatility.
Keep reading to see why Portable Power Stations are a camper’s best friend, plus which models keep the lights (and coffee machine) on all trip long.

Our Top 3 Picks for Every Camper

Best Overall: Jackery Explorer 1000 – Highlighting a balance of features, capacity, and portability.

The Jackery Explorer 1000 offers a 1002Wh battery, multiple output options (AC, DC, USB), and excellent durability.
It’s capable of powering phones, laptops, lights, and even small appliances.

While heavier than some alternatives, it strikes one of the best balances between power, versatility, and reliability.
Its solar charging compatibility also makes it a strong off-grid option.

Bluetti portable power station outdoor close-up on a stone surface.

Best for RV & Extended Trips: Bluetti AC200P – Focusing on high capacity, multiple ports, and fast charging.

With a 2000Wh capacity, the Bluetti AC200P is built for long-term use in caravans, motorhomes, or extended off-grid stays.
It handles AC, DC, and USB outputs with ease and recharges quickly from either wall or solar sources.

The ability to power multiple high-demand devices at once is a huge plus.
It is heavy, but the extended runtime more than makes up for it.

Best for Backpacking & Tent Camping: Goal Zero Yeti 500X – Emphasising lightweight design and portability.

The Goal Zero Yeti 500X weighs only 11 lbs yet delivers a 505Wh capacity and multiple output options.
Its compact size makes it perfect for shorter trips or minimalist campers.

It’s solar-compatible, easy to carry, and offers enough power to keep essentials charged.
A great match for those travelling light without giving up convenience.

Person holding the Jackery Explorer 2000 V2 portable power station by the handle during sunrise with mountain background.

How to Choose the Right Portable Power Station

A Quick Guide to Power, Capacity & Battery Life

Watt-Hours (Wh): What you can power and for how long.

Watt-hours measure total stored energy.
A higher Wh rating means a longer runtime — for example, 500Wh can keep lights and phones powered for a weekend, while 1000Wh or more can run small appliances for days.

Watts (W): What devices you can run simultaneously.

Watts measure maximum output at a given moment.
Check the combined wattage of your devices to ensure your power station can handle them together without tripping its limits.

Battery Chemistry: Why LiFePO4 is a popular choice for durability.

LiFePO4 batteries offer long cycle life, strong safety ratings, and good performance in a range of temperatures.
They are ideal for frequent campers who want consistent performance for years.

Essential Features to Look for

Charging Options: AC, car, and solar charging capabilities.

A versatile camping power station should charge via a wall socket, a vehicle’s 12V outlet, and solar panels.
This ensures you can replenish power anywhere.

Bluetti portable power station connected to foldable solar panels beside an SUV in a grassy mountain field.

Ports: The number and types of outlets you'll need.

Look for a variety of AC sockets, USB-A, USB-C, and DC outputs.
That way, you can power everything from phones to mini-fridges without needing extra adapters.

Portability & Durability: Weighing your options for your camping style.

Portability often comes at the cost of capacity.
Backpackers should go for lighter units, while those travelling by car or camper can choose heavier, more powerful models.

Rugged casings and weather resistance are also important for outdoor reliability.

The Difference Between a Power Station and a Solar Generator

When to choose a portable power station vs. a solar generator.

A portable power station stores energy and can be charged by AC, vehicle, or solar.
A solar generator is simply a power station bundled with solar panels.

If you already own solar panels, you may only need to purchase the power station itself.

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