What size power bank for bikepacking?

Power Up Your Pedal Strokes: Choosing the Right Size Power Bank for Bikepacking

Bikepacking, the adventurous fusion of backpacking and cycling, demands careful consideration of every gram and every cubic inch. Space and weight are premium commodities, making gear selection a delicate balancing act between comfort, necessity, and efficiency. One crucial piece of technology often overlooked until the batteries are blinking red is the humble power bank. But what size power bank is right for your bikepacking adventure?

While the siren song of massive capacity might seem appealing, lugging around a brick of a power bank isn’t ideal. The key is finding that sweet spot – enough juice to keep your essentials humming without adding undue burden to your ride.

The Goldilocks Zone: 10,000-12,000mAh

For most bikepacking trips, a power bank in the 10,000 to 12,000mAh range represents the “just right” solution. This capacity offers a potent blend of portability and power, capable of satisfying the needs of essential electronics without weighing you down.

Why This Range Works So Well:

• Sufficient Capacity for Essentials: Consider what you’ll be charging. A typical smartphone can be fully charged 2-3 times from a 10,000mAh power bank. Add in a GPS unit, cycling computer, headlight, and potentially a camera, and you’ll still likely have enough reserves to last several days of responsible usage.
• Avoids Unnecessary Bulk: Larger capacity power banks quickly become heavy and unwieldy. Every ounce matters when you’re grinding up a steep climb or navigating a technical descent. The 10,000-12,000mAh range offers a reasonable power-to-weight ratio, minimizing the impact on your overall load.
• Performance and Reliability: Modern power banks in this size range are readily available from reputable brands, ensuring reliable performance and longevity. Look for features like overcharge protection and short-circuit prevention for added peace of mind.

Beyond the Capacity: What to Consider

While capacity is the primary factor, other considerations will influence your ultimate decision:

• What are you charging? Create a list of your electronic devices and their battery capacities. Research how many times you’ll realistically need to charge each device during your trip. This will give you a clearer picture of your total power needs.
• Trip Length: A weekend getaway will have different power requirements than a multi-week expedition. Longer trips might benefit from carrying two smaller power banks for redundancy and easier weight distribution.
• Availability of Charging Sources: Will you have access to any charging opportunities along your route? Perhaps a campsite with electrical outlets or a friendly café in a small town? If so, you can get away with a smaller power bank.
• Power Bank Features: Look for features like:
  • Multiple Output Ports: Allows you to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
  • Fast Charging: Significantly reduces charging times.
  • Pass-Through Charging: Allows you to charge the power bank while also charging other devices.
  • Durability and Water Resistance: Crucial for withstanding the rigors of bikepacking.

Conclusion: Ride Smart, Power Smart

Choosing the right size power bank for bikepacking is about striking a balance between power and portability. While your specific needs may vary, a 10,000-12,000mAh power bank offers a solid foundation for most adventures. By carefully considering your electronic devices, trip length, and availability of charging sources, you can ensure your journey stays powered up without unnecessarily weighing you down. Remember, a lighter bike is a faster bike, and a well-powered device can be a lifesaver on the open road. Happy trails!