How to choose a portable power station for camping?

Setting one up inside a home or workshop means close quarters, and loud models could literally require hearing protection. A portable power station for camping should also be quiet, or else it may disturb the neighbors. Typically, electric and solar power stations make for the quietest generators available.

What is a portable power station?

A portable power station is like a big, rechargeable battery that you can take anywhere. It's handy for camping, outdoor events, or as a backup power source at home. You can plug in various devices like phones, laptops, and even small appliances to keep them running when there's no traditional power source available.

Do portable power stations need a wall outlet?

Portable power stations typically come equipped with lithium-ion batteries that hold a significant amount of stored electrical energy. Most power stations plug directly into a standard electrical outlet, but many models don’t require access to a wall outlet.

Are portable power stations a good choice?

Portable power stations can deliver power when you need it most, whether during power outages or just for an off-grid adventure. These handy electricity suppliers vary in size, output, and energy source, not to mention durability.

Are portable power stations expensive?

Updated June 2025: We’ve added a Bluetti model, honorable mentions from EcoFlow and Acer, and a testing and FAQ section. Portable power stations can be very expensive, but discounts, sales, and deals are common. If you can afford to wait, you can likely get your chosen power station for less than the listed MSRP.

What can a portable power station charge?

A portable power station can charge and power a variety of devices, from small electronics like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and cameras to larger appliances such as mini-fridges, TVs, and even power tools.