[Boondock Buddy]

Hey fellow bikepackers! As someone who’s spent way too many hours pedaling through the great outdoors with nothing but a granola bar and a questionable map, I know the importance of staying connected (and charged!) on the trail. Whether you’re snapping pics of that epic view or just trying to find the closest camp spot that isn’t swarming with mosquitoes, a good power bank can be a game-changer. So grab your snacks and settle in—I’m about to share my top three favorite bikepacking power banks that have saved my butt more times than I can count, along with a handy buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your own adventures.

Here are the stars of the show:

• Nitecore NB10000 Gen 2
• Anker PowerCore 10000 PD Redux
• Goal Zero Flip 36

[Boondock Buddy]

Nitecore NB10000 Gen 2

Well, folks, after kilometers of trail biking and quite a few “let’s camp under the stars” experiences, I’ve finally decided to give the Nitecore NB10000 Gen 2 power bank a whirl, and boy, let me tell you, it’s been an electrifying ride!

Firstly, the thing is light. Like, seriously light. I was half-convinced it might just fly out of my turbo-charged backpack during my enthusiastic descents, but nope, it held on like a champ. This little magic box tips the scales at barely 150 grams. For those of us who obsess over packing efficiency as much as we do about conquering that next gnarly hill, this is a real boon!

I’ve used this bad boy on a couple of my weekend trips, charging my phone and bike lights, because let’s face it—nothing screams “epic fail” more than losing power and navigating trails with only the light of your questionable bikepacking decisions.

• Battery Life: A full charge got me through almost three phone charges and still had juice leftover to save my GPS from certain death. Talk about a lifesaver.
• Durability: It survived a drop that could only be compared to my attempt at hurling myself over a boulder… epically both times.
• Design: Slick, compact, and fits anywhere like it was meant to be there. And did I mention the carbon fiber casing? So, if there was an award for “best-dressed power bank,” this would win—hands down.

Perhaps the best feature, though, is its ability to charge two devices at once. You know, so if your mate is whining about his dead phone while you’re trying to enjoy your hard-earned trail coffee, you can play hero without sacrificing your own devices’ lifelines.

Here’s where you can check it out, though it’d probably be more fun to grab one and start planning your next bikepacking adventure. Best of luck keeping it as charged as you are!

In conclusion, the Nitecore NB10000 Gen 2 has the two key attributes I look for in anything that becomes a part of my biking escapades: reliability and cool factor. Give it a shot—your off-grid escapades will never be powerless again!

[Boondock Buddy]

Anker PowerCore 10000 PD Redux

So there I was, in the middle of nowhere, biking through the trails like I’m on a quest for the Holy Grail. Well, a grail with more mud and fewer Monty Python characters. Just me, Mother Nature, and my trusty Anker PowerCore 10000 PD Redux. Believe me, this little powerhouse deserves its own medal for bravery and endurance in the face of outdoor chaos.

Battery Life: Let’s talk about the main gig—battery life. I went on a two-day bikepacking trip, and the PowerCore was my sidekick. By the end of the trip, it had juiced up my phone twice and my GoPro once, leaving some juice to spare. I could’ve probably charged my charm one more time if that were possible. Impressive is an understatement.

Portability: It’s compact enough to shove into your pack without having to choose between a granola bar and battery power. Measuring smaller than a pop tart but infinitely more useful on the trail, this thing is the very definition of convenience.

• Speed: It charges my gadgets faster than my legs can pedal downhill. We’re talking substantial output, so no more waiting for ages. My phone hit the 50% charge mark in what felt like mere minutes.
• Durability: This little gizmo took a tumble during a particularly enthusiastic ride (okay, maybe I was showing off a bit), but it survived with nary a scratch. Whether navigating rocky paths or enduring my own clumsiness, it’s still ticking.
• Multifunctionality: I plugged in a flashlight since camping with dead batteries is no fun trust me on that one. The PowerCore handled it all like a champ.

When the campfire debates get heated, and someone asks, “Why Anker?” I can’t help but throw in a little personal anecdote about how it saved my adventure and my sanity. Honestly, it’s become the MVP of my biking trips—except it doesn’t hog all the trail mix like Steve does.

In short, if you want a reliable partner that doesn’t get tired, the Anker PowerCore 10000 PD Redux is a top-tier choice. Just remember, always recharge before your next ride, or else you’ll find yourself at a strange gas station surrounded by curious onlookers, desperately searching for an outlet like it’s the last one on Earth. Happy trails!

[Boondock Buddy]

Goal Zero Flip 36

Greetings, fellow pedal-pushers!

So, let me tell you about my latest gadget-love: the Goal Zero Flip 36. This little dynamo has quickly become my trusty sidekick on my biking adventures, and I thought I’d spill the beans (or electrons, in this case) about my experience with it.

Picture this: You’re deep in the woods, conquering trails like a boss, when your phone dies. It’s like the “No Signal” gods have cursed you, leaving you with just your instincts and maybe a curious squirrel for company. Enter the Flip 36, my personal hero in a compact casing. This power bank packs enough juice to keep my essential devices ticking even when I’m miles from civilization.

Here’s the lowdown:

• With its 10,050 mAh capacity, it recharges my smartphone a couple of times over, or my bike lights several times, perfect for when I’ve been a bit too ambitious with my night trail sessions!
• Its size is pretty much ideal—not much bigger than a granola bar, so it fits snugly in my bike frame bag. It leaves loads of room for, you know, actual granola bars.
• The built-in USB port means I don’t need any extra cables. Keep it simple, right? But just in case, I do have a cable tucked away safely because paranoia can be a pretty useful trait sometimes.

Now, let me get personal for a moment. Imagine me, halfway up a grueling trail, ready to capture an epic sunset. I’m pulling out my phone, only to realize it’s more dead than my legs after a long climb. But wait! The Flip 36 was there like a curveball straight out of a superhero comic, powering up my phone just in time to snap that Instagram-worthy, “I’m one with nature” selfie.

But it’s not all sunshine and battery life. I do wish it had maybe a couple more USB ports, because let’s face it, when isn’t there more than one thing to charge? Nevertheless, its lightweight design makes up for it, so I let that slide.

For the bikepackers and weekend warriors among us, the Goal Zero Flip 36 is the MVP of my gear lineup. Whether you’re a tech junkie or just need that emergency charge on the trails, I’d say it’s worth giving this little powerhouse a spin.

May your trails be thrilling, your uphills not too punishing, and your electronics forever charged!

Ride on!

[Boondock Buddy]

Best Bikepacking Power Banks Buyer’s Guide

Hey fellow pedal pushers and trail trekkers! If you’ve landed here, it’s probably because you’re gearing up for an epic bikepacking adventure, where the gravel meets the greenery and where every ounce of energy counts. Today, I’m diving into one of the unsung heroes of the bikepacking world: power banks. Yes, these little packs of portable electrons can make the difference between capturing that sunrise summit pic or suffering through a dark, phone-less night in the wilderness.

So, grab some trail mix and let’s power through this bikepacking power bank buyer’s guide to keep your gadgets going, no matter how far off the beaten path you ride.

Capacity is King: First off, consider how much capacity you’ll need. Power banks are measured in milliamp hours (mAh). I’ve found that a 10,000mAh bank is a sweet spot for most bikepacking trips—it’ll charge a smartphone about three times, perfect for a weekend getaway. If you’re planning a longer odyssey, look for something in the 20,000mAh range. A word of advice: always take into account all the devices you’re planning to charge, such as a GPS, a camera, or perhaps a power-hungry Bluetooth speaker to keep the motivation jams rolling.

Weight vs. Power: Bikepacking is a constant battle against weight, as I’m sure you know. I personally once packed a power bank the size of a brick. Needless to say, my thighs were not amused by the extra workout. Strike a balance between weight and power; some of the more compact options might be a tad heavier for their size, but they pack more juice.

Durability is Non-negotiable: Take it from someone who’s accidentally dropped their power bank into a stream—twice. Make sure your chosen power bank is tough enough to handle the inevitable bumps and bruises of the trail. Look for water resistance, dustproofing, and, if you’re anything like me, shockproofing!

Porty Options: My usual go-to has multiple ports, which is fantastic for those times when you need to recharge the ol’ GoPro while also juicing up your phone. It’s a game-changer, trust me. Also, consider banks that support fast charging, so you’re spending less time “refreshing” and more time riding.

Solar Solutions: I’m a big fan of integrating a little renewable energy into the kit. Some power banks come with built-in solar panels. They’re not the fastest, but when you’re out for days, they’re lifesavers. I’ve used one to at least partially recharge my bank while taking midday snack breaks.

Here’s a link to a power bank I’ve tested that hits a lot of these points.

Lessons Learned: Once, I shared a tent with a friend who also forgot to pack their power bank. Trust me when I say that sharing a limited power source can be a quick friendship ruiner—plan accordingly!

In conclusion, weigh your options (literally) and choose the one that fits your adventure style. Whether it’s a quick overnight trip or the ultimate multi-day bike camping odyssey, the right power bank keeps your devices juiced and you connected—or delightfully disconnected—depending on your mood.

Pack light, power on, and ride those trails like the electric explorer you are!

[Tent Trails]

Hey there, fellow bike trail adventurers! 🚴‍♂️

I’ve been around the block—or should I say trail?—when it comes to bikepacking, and if there’s one thing I can’t live without, it’s a reliable power bank. Seriously, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of technology on the go! 😄 Let me share some extra tips and thoughts on making your trip memorable and connected:

• Pack a Power Menu: Always know what you’re bringing to the tech party. Aside from your phone, remember devices like GPS, action cams, or even mini speakers might need some juice along the journey. Better safe and charged than sorry! 🎶📸
• Weather Wise Power: If Mother Nature has a way of welcoming you with rain showers as it does with scenic beauty, consider a weather-resistant bank. You don’t want your savior device drowning on Day 2! 🌧️
• Solar Is Hot Tech: If you’re planning to linger in sunny spots, solar-powered options are worth a thought, though they’re more like a backup plan than a main squeeze due to slower speeds. 🌞
• Fast & Furious: Quick charge capabilities are a real game-changer. It’s like turbo boost for your gadgets, perfect for when you’re at a quick pit stop! 🏎️💨
• Multi-Talents: Pick one with multiple ports. Helping a buddy with a second port is always cooler than saying, “Sorry, single passenger ride!” Also, consider banks with built-in lights—a lifesaver for last-minute campsite setups! 🔦

And here’s a little pro tip: If you’re carrying a power bank, make space for an ultra-short cable that doesn’t tangle. I call mine the “emergency bunjee cord of sanity”! 🪢😅

Keep the spirit of adventure alive, may your paths be smooth, your vistas breathtaking, and your power bank always brimming with energy! 🌄⚡

[Author]

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