Power banks, which first burst onto the scene in 2011, have become a major necessity for travelers, especially those who rely on their mobile devices for various digital services, such as Google Maps, e-boarding passes, and e-guidebooks to locate hotels, attractions, and restaurants in vacation areas, etc., that require your battery to remain powered up to utilize them.
Hence, it pays to invest in a good one to meet your travel needs. So let’s take a look at how power banks work and then discuss some features that make them stand out from others to help you find a suitable one for you.
About Power Banks
A power bank is a portable charger or external battery pack that you charge and then use the stored energy to charge your mobile device on the go without the need for a power outlet.
This way, you can use your phone or tablet with confidence, knowing no matter where you are when the battery dies, you can conveniently charge it using the power bank, making it a travel essential. Manufacturers like Baseus, are producing high-powered, fast-charging power banks in various sizes and whether it’s wired or wireless.
Things to consider when choosing a good power bank
Size and Weight
Two of the first things to consider when choosing a power bank are its size and weight, which affect its ease of portability.
In general, the smaller the portable charger is, the easier it will be to carry it in your pocket or backpack, etc.
However, a smaller power bank also typically means a lower capacity, which means it will most likely only be able to charge a small mobile device, such as your phone, and only about once or twice.
So if you plan to use your portable charger quite often, go with one that is at least 10,000 mAh, which will offer sufficient capacity and still be quite easy to carry.
Durable Shell
During travel, your power bank is susceptible to rigorous conditions, so you want to be sure it has a durable shell that can handle it.
Therefore, you should also choose one made of higher quality materials, such as anodized aluminum, which is fire resistant and able to withstand impacts for longer life.
Capacity
When choosing a power bank based on its capacity, it is recommended you go with one with a stated capacity at least 3 times that of your mobile device to ensure you will get up to 3 or more charges out of it when traveling long distances.
Multiple Ports
A power bank with multiple ports and output ports will enable you to charge more than one device at once, which is especially important when traveling with various devices or companions.
Power Input and Power Output Ports
You also want to be sure your power output ports have a max electric current output that matches your device; otherwise, it may not charge or take forever to charge.
Meanwhile, the power bank’s maximum current input determines how fast the power bank itself will recharge. Therefore, if you want it to charge quickly, then go with one with a higher max input that will enable you to do so.
Just be sure the charging cable and plugin charger can support the maximum current input.
Heat Protection Features
A power bank that contains a lithium polymer battery is less likely to explode or cause a fire than one with a lithium-ion battery, so you keep this in mind when choosing a safe device.
The power bank should also include built-in protection against short-circuiting, overheating, overcharging of your device once it’s fully charged, and more.
One that includes a UL certification or another safety certification means it has been tested under various hazardous conditions; therefore, it is also deemed safe.
Charging Indicator Lights
Charging indicator lights enable you to see when the power bank and your device are charging, so be sure your chosen power bank also includes indicator lights, so you know that your devices are charging and how much they still have to go to be fully charged.
Some newer model chargers even contain multiple indicators to keep you in the know about various charging stats concerning your device.
Warranty
All power banks typically come with a warranty but look for products by manufacturers who offer a longer warranty, such as Baseus, who offers a 12-month warranty on their chargers and batteries, to show they stand by their longevity.
So there you have it, a power bank can be an essential tool while traveling. Just be sure to incorporate these tips to help you choose one wisely.
Also Read: How To Organize Your Mobile According To The Applications?