I never go camping without this $24 portable charger
Camping is one of my favorite ways to escape the city and enjoy a little downtime. While not for everyone, I can't imagine anything better than waking up in the middle of nowhere and watching the sun come up over the mountains with a gas stove-heated mug of coffee. Total bliss.
But despite this craving for a remote escape, I never want to be cut off completely. I'll forgo all homely pleasures, except phone battery (I'm a millennial, after all). It's not just for taking many pictures and posting them on my Instagram story (but it is also that). I need battery to be able to check maps, play music on a Bluetooth speaker, and track my CGM.
To prevent the loss of all these things, a quick Amazon search led me to the AsperX portable charger. Price and availability for it to be delivered the following day made it the easiest purchase I've made all year. And now, having used it on several camping trips, this little device is a staple in my kit.
Why I love the AsperX portable charger
There's so much to love about the AsperX charger, but my favorite thing of all is that it comes in a two-pack — this was probably the biggest influence in my decision to purchase right away. I go camping with my husband, so it was a no-brainer. With two, we're both sorted. And on the chance I drained the battery from one, I could also use my far less chronically online husband's charger.
Next on my list of pros is the price. Portable chargers vary hugely in price, some costing around $100. For the two-pack, I only paid $24.95. I assumed, for this price, I'd be sacrificing some quality. But I was surprised to discover this wasn't the case. They are sturdy and come with lots of charging connections. Now, I've not tested any costly portable chargers, but I don't see what they could offer that the AperX chargers don't.
I've been lucky enough not to have to use it on a rainy camping trip yet, but I'm not worried — the sturdiness has given me faith it can handle a lot, although I won't be purposely leaving it outside to get wet. For $24, I'm really happy with its durability.
For charging, it has one USB-C, one Micro, and two USB ports, and can charge three devices at once. AsperX says that each charger can charge the iPhone X 2.4 times, the iPhone 8 3.6 times. I have an iPhone 15 Pro, and found that I could charge it fully at least twice. I also liked that it held its charge for weeks when not in use, meaning I can keep one packed away in my camping box without worrying it will be dead when I actually need it.
Size-wise, it is just slightly smaller than my phone, so it's not big and bulk. It's pretty easy to slide into your pocket alongside your phone as it charges.
Where to buy the AsperX portable charger
The AsperX portable charger (two pack) can be found at Amazon for $24.95. It's regularly on sale, so keep an eye out for deep discounts.
Lois Mackenzie is a freelance reporter at Mashable. Over the years she has written for many publications, covering everything from the local news to the best pair of running shoes. You can find bylines in publications including Fit&Well, Metro, and Coach magazine, usually covering deals on everything from earbuds to TVs, or guides on how to beat your half marathon time.
Lois also holds a Master's degree in Digital Journalism from Strathclyde University and obtained a Master of Arts in English Literature at the University of Aberdeen.
