The Best Portable Power Banks for Travel in 2025: Portable power banks are indispensable for travelers, ensuring smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices stay charged during long flights, remote adventures, or busy itineraries. With global travel rebounding over 1.3 billion international arrivals recorded in 2024 power banks address the growing reliance on power-hungry devices for navigation, photography, and communication.
Advances in lithium-ion technology, USB-C Power Delivery (PD), and compact designs have made power banks smaller, faster, and more efficient. However, strict TSA regulations limit power banks to 100Wh (approximately 27,000mAh) for carry-on luggage, and some airlines impose additional rules, such as prohibiting use during flights or limiting quantities.
Why Power Banks Are Essential for Travel
Power banks provide a reliable backup when outlets are scarce, such as during long-haul flights, outdoor excursions, or unreliable airport charging stations. In 2025, features like USB-C PD (up to 200W), wireless charging, and rugged designs cater to diverse needs, from urban commuters to backcountry hikers. Capacities range from 5,000mAh for a single phone charge to 27,000mAh for multiple devices, including laptops. With prices starting at $25, these gadgets are affordable, durable, and airline-compliant, ensuring seamless connectivity on the go.
1. Anker Nano Power Bank 10,000mAh ($39.99)
The Anker Nano Power Bank 10,000mAh is the best overall choice for travelers seeking portability and reliability. Weighing just 5.3 oz and measuring 4.09 x 2.06 x 0.59 inches, it’s pocket-sized and TSA-compliant. Its 30W USB-C PD port and built-in USB-C cable deliver fast charging, fully powering an iPhone 16 Pro Max (4,685mAh) twice or a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra in about 90 minutes. The LED display shows precise battery percentage, and its durable, soft-touch finish resists scratches. Rated 4.8/5 on Amazon with over 69,000 reviews, it’s praised for reliability during travel. Use case: Day trips or short flights for charging phones and earbuds.
2. Ugreen Nexode 20,000mAh Power Bank ($79.99)
The Ugreen Nexode 20,000mAh Power Bank is ideal for travelers needing to charge multiple devices, including laptops. At 1 lb and 5.16 x 2.13 x 2.01 inches, it’s TSA-compliant and offers a 130W combined output across two USB-C ports (100W and 30W) and one USB-A port (22.5W). It can charge a MacBook Pro once or an iPhone 15 Pro Max four times. The TFT display provides real-time voltage, current, and battery data, enhancing user control. Its rugged build suits long trips, earning a 4.7/5 from ZDNET for versatility. Use case: Digital nomads or long-haul travelers with laptops and phones.
3. Belkin BoostCharge Plus 10K ($69.99)
The Belkin BoostCharge Plus 10K combines convenience and compactness, weighing 8.5 oz and measuring 5.68 x 2.63 x 0.69 inches. It features built-in USB-C and Lightning cables, eliminating the need for extra cords, and a USB-C port for a third device. With 18W output, it charges an iPhone 16 twice or AirPods multiple times. Its hard-plastic shell is drop-resistant, and a 4.6/5 rating from Wirecutter highlights its travel-friendly design. In 2025, it’s a top pick for Apple users due to its Lightning cable. Use case: Urban travelers with iPhones or mixed-device setups.
4. Hiluckey Solar Power Bank 25,000mAh ($59.99)
The Hiluckey Solar Power Bank 25,000mAh is perfect for off-grid adventurers, featuring four foldable solar panels (up to 6W) for recharging in sunlight. Weighing 18.7 oz and measuring 6.1 x 3.4 x 1.4 inches, it’s TSA-compliant and offers two USB-A ports and one USB-C port, charging a smartphone up to seven times. Its leather case enhances durability for hiking or camping, though solar charging is slow (dependent on sunlight). Rated 4.5/5 by National Geographic, it’s ideal for remote travel. Use case: Backcountry trips or areas with limited power access.
5. Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 ($59.95)
The Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 is the ultralight champion, weighing only 5.3 oz and measuring 4.8 x 2.3 x 0.4 inches. Its 10,000mAh capacity delivers two phone charges, with a 20W USB-C PD port for fast charging. The carbon-fiber frame and IPX5 water resistance make it ideal for backpackers, and its efficiency (highest watt-hours per ounce) earned a 4.8/5 from CleverHiker. In 2025, it’s a favorite for ultralight travelers needing durability. Use case: Hiking or minimalist travel with one device.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Travel Power Bank
- Capacity: Choose 5,000–10,000mAh for short trips (1–2 phone charges) or 20,000–27,000mAh for multiple devices or laptops. Stay under 100Wh (27,000mAh) for TSA compliance.
- Portability: Prioritize lightweight models (under 8 oz) like Anker Nano or Nitecore for pocket carry, or slightly heavier ones (1–2 lbs) like Ugreen for backpacks.
- Charging Speed: Look for USB-C PD (18W–100W) for fast charging; higher wattage suits laptops.
- Durability: Rugged options like Hiluckey or Nitecore withstand outdoor conditions; soft-touch finishes (Anker, Belkin) resist scratches.
- Features: Built-in cables (Belkin, Anker), digital displays (Ugreen, Anker), or solar charging (Hiluckey) enhance convenience.
- TSA Compliance: Power banks must be in carry-on luggage, under 100Wh, and some airlines limit quantity or in-flight use.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Power banks face challenges like battery degradation in extreme temperatures (avoid <40°F or >80°F) and varying airline restrictions. In 2025, stricter TSA screenings for lithium-ion batteries require clear capacity labeling. Looking ahead, 2026 will likely see power banks with gallium nitride (GaN) technology for faster, cooler charging and eco-friendly designs using recycled materials, as seen in some 2025 models like Juice Eco Max+. Innovations in wireless charging and higher-density batteries will further enhance portability.
FAQs
Are power banks safe to carry on flights?
Yes, power banks under 100Wh (approximately 27,000mAh) are safe in carry-on luggage, per TSA and FAA rules. They cannot be checked, and some airlines limit quantity or prohibit in-flight use. Check airline policies before travel.
How many phone charges can a 10,000mAh power bank provide?
A 10,000mAh power bank typically provides 1–2 full charges for modern smartphones (3,000–5,000mAh), depending on efficiency and cable quality. For example, the Anker Nano charges an iPhone 16 Pro Max twice.
Can power banks charge laptops?
Yes, high-capacity models like the Ugreen Nexode (20,000mAh, 130W) or Anker Prime (27,000mAh, 200W) can charge laptops via USB-C PD, providing at least one full charge for a MacBook Pro.
Are solar power banks reliable for travel?
Solar power banks like the Hiluckey are reliable for backup charging in sunny conditions but charge slowly (8–10 hours in direct sunlight). They’re best for off-grid trips where outlets are unavailable.
How do I maintain a power bank’s lifespan?
Avoid extreme temperatures (<40°F or >80°F), keep charge levels between 20–80%, and use high-quality cables. Clean with a soft, damp cloth or 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes for hygiene.
Are budget power banks safe?
Reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, and Ugreen offer safe, reliable budget options with overcharge and short-circuit protection. Avoid unbranded models, which may overstate capacity or lack safety features.