Camping Electronics & Power

Portable power stations, solar panels, GPS devices, and outdoor tech

The days of being truly disconnected are optional now. Portable power stations can run a mini-fridge for days. Solar panels charge everything. GPS keeps you from getting lost. We test the tech that makes extended trips more comfortable and safer - while still respecting that sometimes you just want to unplug.

Our Top Picks

Best Power Station

Jackery Explorer 1000

1000Wh capacity. Powers everything but the kitchen sink.

Best Solar Panel

Bluetti PV200

200W foldable. Great output, durable build.

Best GPS

Garmin GPSMAP 67

Satellite messaging + topo maps. Peace of mind.

Electronics Reviews

Electronics reviews coming soon! Testing power stations, solar setups, and navigation devices.

Check out our EV camping section for related power gear.

Camping Electronics Buying Guide

Portable Power Station Sizing

  • 300-500Wh: Phones, laptops, lights. Weekend trips.
  • 500-1000Wh: + Small cooler, CPAP, fans. Extended trips.
  • 1000-2000Wh: + Mini fridge, power tools. Serious off-grid.
  • 2000Wh+: Full off-grid capability. Overlanding rigs.

Solar Panel Considerations

  • 100W: Phone/laptop charging, slow power station recharge
  • 200W: Good balance of power and portability
  • 400W+: Fast charging, semi-permanent setups

GPS vs Phone

Your phone works great in service areas with offline maps. A dedicated GPS with satellite messaging (like Garmin inReach) adds emergency communication where there's no cell signal. For remote backcountry, we recommend both.

Price Ranges

Power stations: $200-$2000+. Solar panels: $100-$500. GPS devices: $150-$650. A solid power setup (500Wh + 100W solar) runs about $500-700.