A portable charger can be one of the most useful gadgets to pack when travelling. Your smartphone may be needed for boarding passes, maps, hotel bookings, photography, communication, and emergencies, so running out of battery at the wrong time can be frustrating.
The best travel power bank should provide enough capacity without becoming too heavy or bulky. Charging speed, size, ports, and airline rules are also important considerations.
Here are some of the best types of portable chargers to consider for your next trip.
1. Anker Nano Power Bank
For travellers who mainly need to charge a smartphone, a compact 10,000mAh power bank can be an excellent choice. The Anker Nano range combines a small design with fast USB-C charging and, depending on the model, a built-in cable.
A compact charger is particularly useful for sightseeing because it can fit easily into a small bag or jacket pocket.
2. Anker PowerCore 10K
A 10,000mAh power bank offers a useful balance between capacity and portability. It is generally enough for topping up a smartphone during a busy day without adding too much weight to your luggage.
This type of charger is ideal for city trips, business travel, and short journeys.
3. Anker Laptop Power Bank
If you travel with a laptop, you will need more power than a basic phone charger can provide. The Anker Laptop Power Bank offers 25,000mAh capacity and up to 165W output, with USB-C connectivity and built-in cables. WIRED currently recommends it as its best overall power bank.
It is a better choice for travellers carrying laptops, tablets, phones, and other demanding devices.
4. Baseus Blade 100W
A high-output power bank such as the Baseus Blade 100W can be useful for people who need to charge larger devices while travelling.
Its flat design is also aimed at making it easier to carry inside a laptop bag or backpack. Before buying a high-capacity model, always check its watt-hour rating and your airline’s current requirements.
5. Anker MagGo Power Bank
For compatible smartphones, a magnetic Qi2 power bank can provide a convenient cable-free charging experience.
The Anker MagGo 10K is currently highlighted by WIRED as a strong MagSafe/Qi2 option. Magnetic charging can be particularly convenient when you want to continue using your phone while it is charging.
6. CUKTECH 30
Travellers who carry several devices may benefit from a power bank with higher output and multiple ports.
The CUKTECH 30 is included among current travel power-bank recommendations and is aimed at users who need to keep several gadgets powered during longer days away from an outlet.
7. Compact Wireless Power Banks
Wireless power banks can be useful when you want fewer cables in your travel bag. Some models attach magnetically to compatible phones, while others simply provide a wireless charging surface.
They are especially convenient for short charging sessions while walking around or waiting at an airport.
What Capacity Should You Choose?
For most travellers, 10,000mAh is a good starting point. It provides useful extra battery without being overly bulky.
A 20,000mAh model can be better for longer trips or travellers carrying multiple devices. If you need to charge a laptop, look for a higher-output model designed specifically for laptop charging.
Remember that the advertised capacity does not translate directly into the exact amount of energy delivered to your devices because charging involves conversion losses.
Check Airline Rules Before Flying
Power-bank rules are particularly important when travelling by air. Current guidance commonly requires spare lithium batteries and power banks to be carried in carry-on luggage rather than checked baggage, and a common limit is 100Wh without special airline approval. Airlines can also introduce additional restrictions, so check your specific airline before departure.
Do not assume that a large-capacity power bank is automatically allowed simply because it is sold as a travel product.
Final Thoughts
The best portable charger depends on the type of traveller you are. A compact 10,000mAh model is ideal for everyday sightseeing, while a larger high-output power bank is more suitable for people carrying laptops and multiple gadgets.
Before buying, consider capacity, charging speed, weight, ports, built-in cables, and airline restrictions. A smaller charger that you actually carry everywhere can be more useful than a huge model that stays at the bottom of your luggage.
With the right portable charger in your bag, you can spend more time exploring and less time searching for an available power outlet.