Choosing the Best Portable Power Station for Camping

by jie janeMar 27, 2024

using egretech plume300 and solar panels

Camping is an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature. However, even in outdoor settings, we still require the convenience of home. Therefore, choosing a suitable portable power station has become essential for camping.

When selecting the most suitable power station, several key factors need to be considered:

1. Portability

The size and weight of the power station directly affect its portability. After all, during hikes, we need to minimize our burden, so choosing a product with a compact size and moderate weight is crucial.

2. Capacity

The capacity of the power station determines the amount of electrical power it can supply. For camping, sufficient capacity means we can enjoy the convenience of electrical devices for an extended period during outdoor adventures.

3. Output Efficiency

The output efficiency of the power station directly relates to charging speed and user experience. Fast, efficient output ensures that we can charge various devices promptly, making the camping experience smoother.

4. Total Power Requirement

When selecting a power station, it's essential to calculate the total power required based on needs. This involves considering the power consumption of various devices that may need charging during camping.

After understanding these key factors, let's take a look at some common devices and their power consumption:

- Laptop: Typically between 30W - 100W;
- Smartphone: Typical charging power ranges from 5W - 25W;
- Camping lantern: Usually between 5W - 20W;
- Portable speaker: Generally between 10W - 50W;
- Camera: Charging power generally ranges from 5W - 20W;
- Drone: Charging power ranges from 50W - 100W.

Based on these power reference values, we can estimate the total power required. 100W (laptop) + 25W (smartphone) + 20W (camping lantern) + 50W (portable speaker) + 20W (camera) + 100W (drone) = 315W.

Therefore, we require an approximate total power of 315 watts (W).

Compare several popular portable power stations

Brand	Ecoflow	Jackery	Bluetti	Egretech
Capacity	256Wh	293wh	204wh	260wh
Size	9.68.55.7inches	9.17.85.2inches	9.86.86.1inches	9.36.51.9inches
Weight	7.7 lbs	7.1lbs	7.9lbs	4.7lbs
Recharge Time	1 hours	4.5 hours	2 hours	4 hours
USB-C Output	60W	60W	100W	100W
Price	219$	279$	179$	199$

From the table above, we can see that each power station differs in terms of capacity, size, weight, recharge time, and output power.

Based on this comparison, we can draw the following conclusions:

Recharge Time: EcoFlow stands out with its super-fast 1-hour recharge time, providing users with a quicker charging experience.

Portability: Egretech has the advantage in size and weight, making it a more lightweight and easily portable option.

Price: Egretech offers a certain advantage in price, providing better value for money.

Therefore, depending on individual preferences regarding charging speed, portability, and price, different power stations can be chosen.

If you prioritize fast charging and portability, EcoFlow might be a good choice, while if you value price and lightweight design, Egretech Plume 300 may be more suitable. The final choice depends on personal needs and budget.

Hopefully, this information will help you select the most suitable portable power station for your camping needs!