Do portable power stations make camping better?

A good portable power station makes camping better. These devices power lights, phones, and small appliances when you’re outdoors. We spent three months testing power stations to find the best portable power stations for camping. We tested 30 portable power stations over 12 camping trips.

What makes a good portable power station?

Faulty power stations can lead to damaged electronics or even personal harm. So, understanding these aspects is vital. Good portable power stations include essential safety features. They often have overload protection to prevent excessive current flow. Short-circuit protection is also common, stopping dangerous electrical faults.

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.

What appliances can a portable power station run?

Depending on the size of the portable power station, they can run 99% of common household appliances. The main exceptions are some extra large induction cook tops, really deep wells with overpowered pumps, large heat pumps, and large electric dryers.

Can a portable power station run a refrigerator?

Yes. Most portable power stations are rated to run refrigerators, but you’ll need to check the wattage of your particular refrigerator. A typical household refrigerator is around 350 to 800 watts, so you’d just need to choose a power station that can handle that kind of output.

Which solar power station is best for off-grid camping?

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 is a complete solar-powered portable power station package, which is why I think it's the best option for off-grid camping. I use Jackery's solar panels with my Explorer 1500, but they work just as well with this model (as a package deal).