6 Best Power Banks For Charging Action Cameras for Travel
Keep your action camera powered on the go. We evaluate 6 top-rated, portable power banks, focusing on fast charging, durability, and essential travel features.
Nothing kills the momentum of a sunset summit timelapse or a high-stakes mountain bike descent faster than a blinking red battery icon on your action camera. Bringing a reliable power bank is the difference between capturing the memory and simply watching it slip away. Let’s break down the best ways to keep your gear juiced up so you can focus on the trail ahead.
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Essential Specs for Action Camera Power Banks
When selecting a power bank for action cameras, the most critical spec isn’t just total capacity—it’s the Power Delivery (PD) rating. Most modern action cameras, like the GoPro Hero series or DJI Osmo Action, utilize fast-charging protocols that require a stable output of at least 15W to 20W. If your power bank doesn’t support PD, you’ll find yourself waiting hours for a partial charge, which is useless when you’re moving between basecamps.
Capacity is a balancing act between weight and endurance. For a weekend trip, a 10,000mAh bank is usually sufficient to charge a camera three to four times. However, for multi-day backcountry treks where you’re also charging a phone or GPS device, look for 20,000mAh units. Always prioritize USB-C ports for both input and output to ensure you aren’t carrying a tangle of outdated cables.
Anker 737 Power Bank: Best High-Speed Option
Power your devices on the go with the Anker 737 Power Bank. This 24,000mAh portable charger delivers 140W output for fast laptop and phone charging, and features a smart display to monitor power and recharge time.
The Anker 737 is a powerhouse that feels like overkill until you’re in a rush to head out for a sunrise shoot. Its standout feature is the smart digital display, which tells you exactly how much power your camera is pulling and how much time remains until full capacity. It’s a heavy piece of kit, but for those running multiple devices, the 140W total output is unmatched.
If you are a content creator who needs to charge a camera, a mirrorless body, and a phone simultaneously, this is your go-to. It’s bulky, so it’s better suited for basecamp setups or bikepacking kits where weight distribution is managed by a frame bag. If you prioritize speed and data over ultralight weight, grab this one.
Nitecore NB20000: Best Lightweight Choice
The Nitecore NB20000 is the industry darling for thru-hikers and weight-conscious climbers for a reason: it uses a carbon fiber frame to shed every possible gram. It provides a massive 20,000mAh capacity without the brick-like heft of its competitors. It’s sleek, minimalist, and fits easily into the side pocket of a climbing pack or a hip belt pouch.
This is the perfect choice if your primary goal is keeping your pack weight down while still having enough juice for a week-long trek. It lacks the bells and whistles of larger units, but its efficiency is top-tier. If your adventure is defined by how many miles you can cover in a day, don’t overthink it—buy this.
Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC for Versatile Ports
Power your devices on the go with the Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC. This 25600mAh power bank features a 100W AC inverter and fast 100W USB-C charging.
The Sherpa 100AC is a beast designed for the adventurer who needs to plug in more than just USB devices. With an integrated AC outlet, you can charge proprietary camera battery cradles that don’t always play nice with standard USB-C cables. It’s rugged, reliable, and built to withstand the bumps of road trips and long-haul travel.
This unit is ideal for photographers and videographers who carry specialized equipment alongside their action cams. It is significantly heavier and more expensive than standard power banks, so it’s not for the casual day hiker. If your kit includes a laptop or specialized camera gear that requires a wall plug, this is the only logical choice.
BioLite Charge 80 PD for Rugged Adventures
BioLite has built its reputation on gear that survives the elements, and the Charge 80 PD is no exception. It features a stainless steel outer shell that is surprisingly resistant to the dings and scratches that happen when you’re scrambling over granite or tossing gear into a canoe. It feels solid in the hand and provides a reliable 20,000mAh of power.
This is the bank for the "oops" moments—dropping your pack on a portage or getting caught in a sudden downpour. While it isn’t fully waterproof, its construction is far more durable than the plastic shells found on most consumer electronics. If you tend to be hard on your gear, this is the investment that will last you for years.
Mophie Powerstation Pro for Compact Travel
The Mophie Powerstation Pro is the definition of "set it and forget it." It’s compact, rubberized for grip, and fits perfectly into a jacket pocket or small daypack organizer. It provides a steady, reliable charge for action cameras without any unnecessary bulk or complex interface menus.
It’s an excellent choice for the weekend warrior who wants a simple, no-nonsense solution. It doesn’t have the massive capacity for a month in the wilderness, but it’s perfect for a weekend of skiing or mountain biking. If you value simplicity and portability above all else, this is your best bet.
OmniCharge Omni 20+ for Advanced Charging
The OmniCharge 20+ is a sophisticated piece of equipment that gives you total control over your power management. It offers adjustable voltage and DC output, which is a dream for users who need to charge specialized gear or older camera batteries that require specific power inputs. The OLED screen provides granular data that helps you optimize your charging cycles.
This is not a starter power bank; it is a tool for the power user who understands exactly what their gear needs. It’s expensive and requires some learning to use effectively, but the versatility is unmatched. If you are planning an expedition where you need to manage multiple types of power inputs, this is the gold standard.
Managing Battery Cycles During Long Trips
To maximize the lifespan of your power bank, avoid letting it drop to zero percent before recharging. Lithium-ion batteries are happiest when kept between 20% and 80% charge. On long trips, try to top off your devices during mid-day breaks rather than waiting until the evening when you’re exhausted.
- Avoid heat: Never leave your power bank in direct sunlight on a dashboard or inside a hot tent.
- Charge in stages: If you have multiple devices, prioritize the one you need most immediately rather than trying to charge everything at once.
- Use quality cables: A high-quality, short USB-C cable reduces energy loss during the transfer process.
Protecting Gear from Moisture and Impacts
Electronic gear and the outdoors have a complicated relationship, primarily due to moisture and grit. Always store your power bank in a dedicated dry bag or a silicone-sealed pouch to prevent short circuits. Even if your gear is "weather-resistant," a heavy rainstorm can easily compromise the USB ports if they aren’t covered.
When packing, keep your power bank away from sharp objects like climbing hardware or cooking utensils. A punctured battery is a major safety hazard and can lead to thermal runaway. Keep your power bank in the center of your pack, cushioned by your clothing, to protect it from the inevitable impact of a fall or a rough trail.
Optimizing Charging for Cold Environments
Cold weather is the enemy of all batteries, causing them to drain significantly faster than they would at room temperature. When you’re out in the snow, keep your power bank and your camera batteries inside your base layer, close to your body heat. The warmth of your core will keep the internal chemistry of the batteries active and efficient.
If you are camping in freezing conditions, bring your batteries into your sleeping bag at night. Never attempt to charge a frozen battery, as it can cause permanent damage to the cell. By keeping your gear warm, you ensure that you’ll have enough power to capture that crisp, winter morning light.
Choosing the right power bank is about balancing your specific gear needs with the reality of your environment. Whether you are trekking through the backcountry or hitting local trails, having a reliable power source ensures you never miss the shot. Now that you’re powered up, get out there and start documenting your next adventure.
