Best Power Banks for Bug Out Bags (Top 10)

Your phone is a survival tool—GPS, communication, information, flashlight, and more. When the grid is down, a power bank keeps your devices alive. For your bug out bag, you need reliable backup power that balances capacity with weight.

Here are our top picks for BOB power banks.

Quick Picks

How Much Capacity Do You Need?

Quick math for phone charging:

• Modern smartphones have ~3,000-4,500mAh batteries
• A 10,000mAh power bank provides 2-3 full charges
• A 20,000mAh power bank provides 4-5 full charges
• Actual output is ~60-70% of rated capacity (energy loss)

For most 72-hour BOBs: 10,000mAh is the sweet spot—enough for several charges without excessive weight.

Detailed Reviews

1. Anker PowerCore 10000 — Best Overall

Anker has built a reputation for reliable, reasonably-priced power banks. The PowerCore 10000 is their most popular model for good reason.

Why it wins:

• Perfect capacity for 72-hour scenarios
• Very lightweight at 6.4 oz
• Compact size (credit card footprint)
• Quality cells and circuitry
• Affordable price point
• Wide compatibility

Considerations:

• Not waterproof
• No solar charging
• Single USB-A output
• Not rugged enough for extreme use

Best for: Most bug out bags, everyday carry, general preparedness

2. Goal Zero Venture 30 — Best Rugged Option

When you need a power bank that can handle abuse, Goal Zero’s Venture line delivers.

Why we like it:

• IP67 waterproof (submersible)
• Drop-proof design
• Built-in flashlight
• Daisy-chain with Goal Zero solar panels
• Dual USB output
• Lanyard attachment point

Considerations:

• Lower capacity for weight
• More expensive
• Larger than non-rugged options
• Heavier at 9 oz for 7,800mAh

Best for: Harsh conditions, outdoor-focused BOBs, pairing with solar

3. Nitecore NB10000 — Best Ultralight

For weight-conscious builds, the Nitecore NB10000 offers premium capacity at minimal weight.

Why we like it:

• Only 5.3 oz (lightest 10,000mAh option)
• Carbon fiber shell
• USB-C with Power Delivery (18W)
• Premium build quality
• Compact design

Considerations:

• Higher price for capacity
• Not rugged
• Limited port options
• May be harder to find

Best for: Ultralight BOBs, weight-conscious builds, tech-forward users

4. Anker PowerCore 20000 — Best Capacity

When you need maximum runtime and can handle the weight, the PowerCore 20000 delivers.

Why we like it:

• 20,000mAh = 4-5 phone charges
• Dual USB output (charge two devices)
• Reliable Anker quality
• Reasonable price for capacity
• Good for families (charge multiple phones)

Considerations:

• Heavy at 12.5 oz
• Larger size
• Takes longer to recharge
• May be overkill for 72-hour scenarios

Best for: Extended scenarios, family BOBs, vehicle kits where weight matters less

5. BioLite Charge 40 PD — Best Fast Charging

USB-C Power Delivery (PD) charges modern phones significantly faster than standard USB-A.

Why we like it:

• 18W Power Delivery output
• Fast recharging input
• Quality construction
• Compact for features
• Good balance of speed and capacity

Considerations:

• Premium pricing
• Requires USB-C cable
• Not waterproof
• Some phones don’t support PD

Best for: USB-C users, those prioritizing charge speed, modern devices

Solar Charging: Worth It?

Many preppers consider solar panels to recharge their power banks indefinitely.

Our take: For 72-hour BOBs, a well-charged power bank is more practical than solar. Solar makes sense for extended scenarios or as a supplemental charging method.

If you want solar, Goal Zero’s Nomad panels pair well with their power banks.

Best Solar Chargers for Bug Out Bags

Capacity vs. Weight Analysis

The sweet spot for most BOBs: 10,000mAh offers the best balance of capacity and weight.

What to Charge (Priority Order)

When power is limited, prioritize:

1. Phone — Communication, GPS, information
2. Headlamp/flashlight (if rechargeable) — Essential for night navigation
3. Emergency radio (if rechargeable) — Information gathering
4. GPS device (if separate) — Navigation backup

What NOT to waste power on: tablets, laptops, entertainment devices (unless they serve critical functions).

Our Recommendations

For Most Bug Out Bags

Anker PowerCore 10000 — Best balance of capacity, weight, and reliability. Affordable enough to have one in every bag.

For Harsh Conditions

Goal Zero Venture 30 — Worth the weight penalty if your BOB will face water, drops, or rough handling.

For Ultralight Builds

Nitecore NB10000 — Same capacity as the Anker at nearly an ounce less. Premium price but minimal weight.

For Families/Extended Scenarios

Anker PowerCore 20000 — More capacity for charging multiple devices. Consider this for vehicle kits or if weight isn’t a constraint.

Related:

• Bug Out Bag: Complete Guide
• Best Emergency Radios for Bug Out Bags
• Best Solar Chargers for Emergency Preparedness