Best power charger for hiking

[@DavidonEarth]

Tell us about your power (re)charger system!

[@kan-zee]

Still learning to get a power bank that will charge . Galaxy 12 phone , usb headlamp, & usb 2x walkie talkies looking into a 20K mAh power bank on amazon these are the options I've see thus far : 1) Anker Essentials 20k mAh / 7 hrs to fully charge / 18 W output / 2 ports 2) Carmast 20k mAh/ ?? fully charge / 18 W output 3) Imuto 20 k mAh / bad reviews with dying after 1 yr 4) Rav Power 20k / 2 ports / 5) Anker powercore 2 , 10k mAh / 209 grams I am still confused what to use on the trails....

[@DavidonEarth]

@@kan-zee this may sound a little geeky, but you may want to make a decision matrix. Down the left side, list from most important to least the criteria that is most important to you (e.g., capacity, charge time, power output, cost, reviews/rating, ect) ... then across the top list the power banks you are considering. Rate each unit by criteria on a scale from 1 to 5 (highest number is best rating). (You may also want to give your most important criteria a multiplier because it's more important) Then add up the total in each column. The highest number is the one you get. Or, just get the Anker or the Rav Power... haha... seriously, they make good stuff.

[@kan-zee]

@@DavidonEarth Really appreciate that "focus chart" you presented in comments section......I will do this and with other purchases as well... Cheers ☑✍🏼😎👍

[@freewillmusic808]

Man, I had this 21000mah charger by Anker a few years ago (now lost) that had usb-c charging and would be full in 2.5hrs. It only weighed 12.5oz and had 2 usb quick charge outputs! They don’t seem to have a usb-c input charger in that capacity range with that short of a charge time capability anymore. Must have used a different chemistry of lithium. That was the one though! I currently have the Nitecore NB-10000 charger w/usb-c input and only 5.33oz. Takes 3hr 15min to charge with an 18w charger from completely dead to full. It’s great for shorter thru hikes but have been wanting something double the size without the extensive charge time of a lot of the packs out there as many don’t offer usb-c input. That ZMI sounds promising though! Everyone, keep in mind that the flaw in usb-c as a whole is that there’s no color coating or any determining factor to what wattage the cord that you’re using can handle. So even though you’re using usb-c, you have to pay the extra and get a cord that will allow you to charge at the speed that you’re expecting. 😉

[@Nick-bo6rz]

What would you recommend for the following requirements I need something that will charge my iPhone that; 1. Can charge in winter without much or any sunlight 2. Won’t get damaged by rain 3. Something suitable for backpacking and is reasonably priced for what I get Thank you

[@shirleydiazhurtado9864]

*I love my new solar **Generater.Systems** . It has the right amount of charging power for my needs and the light weight makes the portability idea.*

[@DavidonEarth]

The answer to this is in knowing the specific amperage drawn from your unit. You'll probably find that it will draw somewhere between 14-16 amps, depending on the mode you are in. So, you'll need a system that will deliver a sustained maximum power output of at least the maximum draw of your unit. My GUESS (without researching RV power systems) is that you'll need a solar panel(s) to charge a battery that can provide this kind of output. BUT, my best advice is to find someone very familiar with RV power systems.

[@armadilllo]

a buttload, just to get the a/c going it'll take 25-30 amps then settle down a bit. There is a huge draw on my 4000w generator and my Honda 2000w putting out 15a won't even run it.

[@montrich1]

I love how much smaller and lightweight this is than my older power banks kzbin.infoUgkxU45wIUiiQjrUWgrFNORkYxVlmCsYWENJ and yet it charges even more. Bought one a couple months ago and loved it so much I purchased a second one and gave it to my granddaughter as a gift. We're avid campers so power banks are an absolute must have. I also like to keep these charged for when the power at home goes out which has happened a couple times this year. They are so convenient and easy to use. You can charge multiple devices at the same time. The compass is a nice added bonus. I appreciate how quickly this arrived. I am curious to see how long these take to charge in the sun.

[@CColetrainn]

I could listen to this man talk for hours, his voice is very relaxing

[@madzen112]

I kinda like that the charging time is so long, you're not really supposed to be on your phone all the time when outdoors anyway

[@chrislucas2324]

This is an EXCELLENT video. Very, very good for someone just starting to look into solar/power banks. Loved the explanation, the content, etc. More videos like this reviewing pros/cons of portable systems would be awesome. I'm currently spending a lot of time outdoors just in the city/suburbs; as I walk AT LEAST 45 mins per day, and usually closer to 90 mins. (Doing the '75 Hard' challenge to peak my mental and physical health). I'm also not driving at present, and take all forms of travel - from family members, to Lyft and Uber, to our Frontrunner and TRAX trains (SLC, Utah area). I WOULD LOVE TO SEE a video like this for urban travel, as I LITERALLY live out of my backpack from the moment I leave the house in the morning, until I get home 9-12 hours later. A 10,000mAh power bank has worked well so far, but what else could I do to improve? I've started researching better (and rechargeable) headlamps (both front facing as well as something to face backwards so traffic can see me on the roadways, walking or taking a scooter). I've considered researching a power bank that will also charge my laptop (as it has USB-C on it, and I "think" it can be charged via USB if it has the proper charger.) So a video like this that deals with urban "survival" for all the things you don't think of until you start doing a lot of voluntary (and involuntary) walking and public transit in daily life, would be great. Just a thought. At any rate - love your style! Again, great video!!!

[@oeckstei]

Have had an anker with 26,000 mAh and it has charge my iPhone at least 6-8 times in a week with active use.

[@vBDKv]

I use a battery pack with a bigger solar panel. It works great. Those battery packs with tiny built in solar cells take *forever* to recharge. Oh and I use X-Dragon 20w panel with a Varta energy 20000mah battery pack. From 0 to 100%, it takes roughly 5 hours. That's fast.

[@joefratt]

does it still hold up?

[@vBDKv]

@@joefratt Yeah it works great. I haven't used actual power to recharge phones and tablets for over 3 months now - Only solar.

[@joefratt]

@@vBDKv so you’ve got the 5v 20 watt panel? How long would you say it takes to fully charge a new iphone? and could you recommend another battery pack that’s works well with it and charges fast from it?

[@vBDKv]

@@joefratt I wouldn't charge phones etc. directly from it. They might restart multiple times if the sun goes away for a few seconds. A battery pack will charge with no issues. Anyway for hiking, a 10000mah is light enough to be carried around and should be able to fully charge your phone from 0 to 100%. For home or camping use use, the bigger battery pack the better.

[@joefratt]

@@vBDKv thank you, have you tested any of the other brands similar, like the big blue, nekteck, or ryno tuff? just trying to come to a conclusion which is best over all, it clearly seems like you love the X-Dragon, but just wondering if you had to pick a second or something

[@bobv7753]

Thanks for the clear explanation of trail power options out there. As you mentioned there are many choices. I'm planning a few section hikes & my old 10000 mAh bank is not holding a charge very well. Time for a new one. The choice for power on the trail is so dependent on individual needs. All of the factors you mention to consider for sure. I'm looking at how much I want to charge, how fast & how often. For trips over 5 days I do take a solar panel primarily for those just in case situations where if I'm out of bank power I can hopefully charge my sat-com/gps device in a bind. Really appreciate your clear overview. It was very helpful. Thanks again! Best Always.....Bob V

[@DavidonEarth]

Thanks, Bob! Good plan! The only person who thinks that having a backup is a bad idea is the person who never needed one. haha...

[@DavidonEarth]

Thanks! I try not to favor any specific products, because, as you say - there are many to review. Hopefully this gave you and other hikers some direction on what specs could be important. What I didn't bring up are the many features/options that could also be part of the decision: water resistance, device compatibility (my buddy was gifted a solar charger, turns out it doesn't charge is power bank), packability, pack attachment options, durability, etc. I'd be interested to know which power bank you decide to buy and why.

[@bobv7753]

@@DavidonEarth Hi Dave, thanks for your reply. I upgraded my power bank to a RavPower 20000mah unit with a 65W pd charger. This will provide up to 6 galaxy s10+ charges. The 65W charger will provide a full charge to that unit in a fast 3.5 hours. For greater than 5 day trips I also take my goal zero nomad 5 solar panel with a goal zero flip 12 3350mah power bank. This pair together is light & will fit in the hydration sleeve of my pack. The solar panel is durable & efficient for light charging. If needed it will charge the flip 12 in about 4 hours in full sun. The flip 12 will provide enough emergency power for a phone & inreach mini charge. Enough to get me by till I get to another resupply point. This combination works for me. Not probably the choice for real ultralight backcampers & I understand that. Hope this answers your question. Best wishes & good hiking!!!

[@shmayazuggot8558]

Take a look at the shargeek storm. Its 94Kwh, can charge it from zero in 1.5 hours and it has 3 ports including a dc in/out port, also has a folding solar panel add on ~7w charge to the phone.

[@robertmeyer4744]

I have a lot of power banks and a few solar . Anker has never let me down. I got 26500Mah with USB C . runs. Charges my laptop . that big blue panel I have. Works great even under cloudy and over cast . output drops off a lot but still puts power into my bank. over time adds up. The bigger the solar panel the better under low light I found. I got big blue solar bank 26000 Mah. has 10watt folding panel. only takes a day or 2 to recharge solar. I charge camcorder /laptop /phone/ camping lights . I went a weak trip and never ran out of power. thank you video was great !

[@DavidonEarth]

Nice! Thanks for more info on the Big Blue!

[@joefratt]

how do you charge your computer through the usb?

[@goodinplenty1]

I haven't met an anker product that I didn't like. I enjoy their battery banks, cords, and earbuds. Great products!

[@vaughnwilliams1208]

Helpful and genuinely funny. I would use a solar panel with a powerbank if it's sunny.

[@alexanter4307]

I do have the Ravpower panel like yours but has 4 leafs and is 24w. I'm in London and is charging even in cloudy days

[@DavidonEarth]

Yes - most solar chargers will charge to some degree even is less optimum conditions. Thanks for pointing that out. And the 24w model you have is 'waterproof' (at least the newest version of them) - the one I have isn't - I have to be super careful with it - and in that regard, not great for backpacking.

[@DrJohn493]

Good timely review/explanation for me with the western trip coming up this summer.

[@_BigLife_]

Nice video and information. Thank you

[@CarvingAPath]

This video was extremely helpful. Thank you for taking the time to post. Answered a lot of questions. Thanks again!

[@waterfallw]

Your video has helped me understand how solar panels work and what to look for to suite my needs, thank you so much!

[@southernstacker7315]

I was planning on starting the lower leg of th AT next spring and need something solar to keep my devices charged. Thanks for the video.

[@nickhtk6285]

Thank you for this. There are "sponsored" items on Amazon making all kinds of crazy claims out there. These are the panel and battery combo units with ratings and reviews beyond reality.

[@DavidonEarth]

Absolutely. That's the biggest reason I did this video. It's too easy to get drawn into all the marketing hype. It helps to pause a bit to understand the technology.

[@tobytollefsen8802]

Newbie here. Thanks for some great explanations and what to look for. Toby

[@surlycyclingrag3347]

thank you for not telling what to buy instead you teach me what to buy. I use a pedalcell to charge my phone it’s about 30 miles to recharge Up hill Down hill or Headwinds works great just got to work for it.

[@DavidonEarth]

Perfect!

[@spellerlittlewing]

Great video I travel with two battery banks

[@Gary-mq1hn]

Thank you.

[@stevechrisman3185]

Thanks David - very helpful !

[@SaadonAksah]

I use the Forclaz 15w charger to charge my baseus power bank. It works but Im gonna look for a faster charging set up.

[@DavidonEarth]

I'm testing out a 13W solar panel this week. I'll post the results soon. Let us know what you decided.

[@charlesgreen7233]

Thanks. Luv your presentation style. Info easily understood and useful. Happy a new year.

[@taurustodd9112]

Thx Dude, simply broken down; concise 👍🏻

[@brentjodrey5114]

my phones at 20percent right now haha , have a good day, 👍 great video I'll finish watching it later , 👍

[@tonibuzzard9312]

This is excellent information. I have an Anker 12000mah power bank and wonder what type of solar panel I can use to charge it.

[@DavidonEarth]

The solar panel manufacturer literature typically will answer that question. The primary factor is the power output rating in watts. Low power output panels, such as hand-held ones are usually too low to charge a power bank. But most portable multi-panel units do have sufficient outputs - of course, the higher wattage output, the shorter the charging time.

[@evilryu29]

I'm using ankor 10.000 b.b a tough tested batter bank with solar panel on it and ankor solar panels

[@timlew4447]

Thanks David!

[@taratee3822]

Wow, such a well-explained video, thank you so much!

[@nkaujthao3781]

I get the the higher power bank pack for more charges. And less downtime. As for solar panel, I'd go for the 4 panel versus the single panel. My old power bank with the built-in single solar panel was just not cutting it for me.

[@Melissa-qs8qc]

Hey, what 4 panel do you use or what would you recommend. I'm looking and it's very mixed reviews. Thanks 😊

[@jamesrosales89]

this is really helpful thankyou !

[@jamesstephens6941]

Excellent summary

[@gamerbros9250]

Very Helpful information. Plan on doing some river fishing this summer

[@DavidonEarth]

Happy anglin'!!

[@jamesf8864]

That was helpful, thank you 😊

[@Dobrufusnoretro]

My aim right now is to find the best solar power bank (with solar panel attached to it + really good portable and light solar panel for my backpack + 20.000+ mA power bank with 45w or more output in a single usb c to charge my laptop). (the other powerbank the solar one for my phone and light and mini battery air pump etc). My goal is to make sure I never run out of power so I dont mind carry the extra weight

[@DavidonEarth]

Right! We all find a way to accommodate our own risk levels and settle into what becomes our best choices. I'm interested in what you eventually decide will be your recharging kit. I just put out a new video on what I'll be doing this year. Check it out.

[@areafifty]

I have 2 big blue panels. Im planning to upgrade

[@luisdominguez4307]

Thanks a lot for the information, was planning to get a small solar panel. Just join the channel :D

[@TheColorofQuantum]

Thanks for this!

[@Melissa-qs8qc]

Nice to meet you David. Your cool and I like your videos. Thank you 😎

[@Ugotcora]

Very Helpfully, Thank you

[@monicanunezmunoz6605]

Thank you

[@PeaceChanel]

Peace.. Shalom.. Salam.. Namaste and Thank You for All your efforts 🙏🏻 😊 🌈 ✌ 🌷 ☮ ❤

[@lisasdayoff503]

I have the big blue 64. Have not tried it out yet.

[@DavidonEarth]

I'd be interested in your review of the Big Blue.

[@Twin_Peaks_Outdoors]

Nice one David just sub'd as well, really interesting video, we will be doing a multi day hike in Switzerland this coming June so will need charging devices for our various electronic devices we will be taking, looking at it i think a decent power bank is the way forward, when we buy them we will let you know which type we got and how it worked out for us, ATB Mark & Simon.

[@DavidonEarth]

Nice! Looking forward to hearing how it works out for you.

[@Twin_Peaks_Outdoors]

@@DavidonEarth I’ve just purchased the Anker 737 power bank for £100 I’ll let you know how it does in the mountains 🏔️👌👍

[@EaglesPerspective]

Great video David, thank you!

[@dwm53w1k6]

Just watched because I had a solar battery bank strapped to my backpack to recharge while hiking and when i got to camp, it wasn't there. So it either dropped off on trail (maybe that blowdown I ducked under) or Sasquatch is a good pickpocket.

[@DavidonEarth]

Bigfoot goes green with solar! Haha

[@DNYS8N]

Brilliant, thanks

[@jimmym2719]

Good 👍 info thank you very much 💕

[@carisacrosbie605]

Your videos are very helpful! I've been wanting to install solar panals on our house for an emergency. So, something that would power a few things in a crisis if needed; small fridge, fan, heater, ability to charge phones, etc. I have no idea where to start for panels, batteries, or how to convert the power. I'm not trying to convert my whole house or tie into the grid. Just something small for temporary backup. In this video you shared that you use solar for your house. Can you do a video on solar panels for a house? Please? :)

[@DavidonEarth]

Hey Carisa! I've been thinking about other videos (maybe a different channel... not sure yet) - as I have other hobbies; we have hopes of being off-grid some day so we've been doing a lot of gardening and sustainability research - taking a lot of tips from my brother who will be entirely off grid in upper MI next month. My solar panels on the house offset our consumption by 90% annually. But I also have a portable setup with a battery that powers a pump for my rain collection system... but it also has USB connections on the control panel to charge phones (and really any USB device). All that has been to figure out some sustainability questions I have. If you are converting to AC power (assuming your fridge, fan, and heater are AC), you will need an inverter to convert the DC power from your solar panels (or batteries) to AC power. I'm really not the expert here, just know enough to be dangerous ;). Anyway - thanks for your comments and I'll consider expanding the channel.

[@DavidonEarth]

Just to get you started with a small kit... (I don't endorse this company, but it will give you an idea of the components you'll need)... look at this setup: www.altestore.com/store/solar-power-systems/battery-backup-solar-power-systems/off-grid-emergency-prep-kit-1-p12008/

[@Conan500]

I live in the UK. Think I’ll give the solar panels a miss!

[@DavidonEarth]

Haha! I work for a UK based company and I get the same response from them whenever I talk about solar.

[@DNYS8N]

Any experience charging in extreme cold? I’m not a big fan of portable solar energy yet.

[@DavidonEarth]

I'm in the habit of keeping my batteries warm. My experience is that cold batteries are less effective. If it's below freezing I'll have them in my pocket, under my quilt at night...

[@RS4393]

I use a solar charger connected to a power bank and use the power bank to charge my phone as needed.

[@DavidonEarth]

What solar charger are you using?

[@RS4393]

@David on Earth Actually it's not namebrand. I soldered 10 small panels from walkway lights in series and hot glued them to a piece of heavy canvas. It's not fast but it works.

[@RS4393]

@@DavidonEarth I've been thinking about getting the blue like in this video. Bound to work better than my DIY.

[@RS4393]

@Bunny Slayer I didn't say it charges quickly. But It does charge. Have a blessed day and enjoy your trolling. It's a shame your brain isn't as quick as your mouth. It's best to keep the power bank charged as much as possible and since I rarely use my phone on trail it DOES keep it topped off.🖕

[@freebirdwv1965]

What is your opinion on hand crank flashlight, radio, phone charger?

[@DavidonEarth]

Those may be good for emergency kits, but for backpackers are not the lightest option.

[@nxesr]

WOW I thought I was looking at James Cameron 😃

[@DavidonEarth]

Haha. I'll take that. I'd also take some of his money.

[@007DFWAngel]

Would love your honest feedback and review of the new stuff on Amazon… what are the odds a battery bank is just a dud?

[@DavidonEarth]

This video is meant to help people in their research - I hope I gave you a few pointers to help make a decision on what to buy for your use. Can you get a dud... sure. When I buy a battery bank for backcountry use - I'll do my research, make a reasonable purchase from a reputable company/product, then test it good before taking it out with me - especially if I'm solo. This is one item I rely on to supply power to my emergencies devices - so, it's important I take along something reliable.

[@wilcoxtactical3716]

I just plug into a current bush. But seriously, I wonder if you can answer a question. I've tested a handful of solar power banks and I have yet to find any of them that actually work. I've put them in direct sun light for days and have yet to see any of them go up a single bar. I do have a goal zero panel and that no doubt works. Have you tested the Solar ability on the one you showed. I understand it takes awhile but can u confirm it's working at all for sure?

[@DavidonEarth]

Yes. All of the models in the video work. Keep in mind, they may not be rated to charge your phone directly. You may need to charge a battery bank that you can then use to charge your phone, GPS, ect. Currant bush... haha.

[@davidgarner2695]

addtop solar charger

[@rogerwilco1777]

Any updates (from anyone) on the 'best' solar/power bank? For Backpacking? I have a Luci Mpowerd and a LuminAID Titan, blow up light thingy's, but they don't charge my phone. (I-phone SE) I have a BioLite 5.0/2200mAh that works with all my stuff, but I feel like I'll break it if I do some 'real' hiking with it.. that refuel thing looks like what I need and its about the same weight as the biolite, so I need to keep the weight under 1lb.. Thanks anyone

[@oldbatwit5102]

The links to buy products, Amazon etc. don't work.

[@DavidonEarth]

Mmmm... sorry. Thanks for letting me know. I just verified that it works for me, even on a disassociated computer (no cache for FB or Amazon). Not sure why they aren't working for you.

[@jakespoon5747]

Considering getting a similar folding panel on eBay their around 20 bucks and advertise 80W which is a lie I'm sure they put all kinds of crazy watt and lumen measurements on Chinese electronics, but Im guessing theyre around 20, have you ever tried these?

[@DavidonEarth]

I have not seen those. But, like you, I would be highly suspect to claims like that.

[@DmitryOlyenyov]

One 15x15cm solar cell produces under ideal conditions 4.8W, but realistically about 2.5W so your can just count how many cells that particular Chinese solar panel has and estimate it. I have "100W" foldable solar panel that has 24 of these cells and yes, max that I was able to get is around 60W.. 24*2.5W=60W

[@michaelsrowland]

Why don't you buy a big blue and an anker and compare them

[@DavidonEarth]

I may need to get another solar panel for backpacking soon, as my RavPower isn't water resistant, it's a bit heavy, and it's had extensive use (getting old). When I do get another panel I may put up a review on it. The power output specs will tell you which will charge a device faster - assuming the solar panel has full, direct sunlight and comparable chords are used. But, sure, it would be worth a real-world test to see how well each performs.

[@armadilllo]

Did you actually test these panels and batteries? I have found that they lie on storage and output of power banks and panels, might as well buy double capacity and output no matter what you buy, all of those panels are made by the same company, just different names stamped on them so just buy the least expensive ones.

[@DavidonEarth]

Yes. I've used all the power banks and solar panels in this video. I don't have the equipment to do any engineering-level kind of testing. And, of course, there are a number of variables to consider if a person wanted to do more critcal testing. Some elements of the technology aren't much different from unit to unit (photovoltaic cells, power translation efficiency, etc.), but we can find noteable charging and power output control technology variances. But the real test is on the trail; a person should take it on a multi-day hike to see if it meets expectations. I'll be field testing another unit soon to see for myself if there are any notable improvements with newer versions.

[@sebs30v]

Solar panels are not worth the hassle. They charge too slow and you are dependent on the sun being out.

[@3ccdmike]

Photons not protons.

[@cyrusarian8256]

I had more than 8 power bank since 2015 , but all of them won't last more than 2 years ! We have to find another solution Like something works with petrol fuel etc ..but not solar or wind or ..all joke

[@DavidonEarth]

Wow. I've had my Anker since 2017 and ZMI since 2020, use each at least weekly - both still going strong. Hey, maybe one of those bike generators will work longer for you... haha

[@laryangel4082]

Rr

[@NatureBoy711]

don't bother with those mini folding solar chargers. all junk ! unless you want to wait over 66 hours ! .... LOL !!!!

[@NatureBoy711]

yes, i have rav brand. those large ones are a lot better indeed !

[@DavidonEarth]

Truth. A lot of it is marketing hype or wishful thinking... the technology doesn't often support the claims or wishes.