Best Portable Power Station for Van Life

Portable power stations are battery-powered devices that can supply electricity to various appliances and devices. They are typically compact and easy to transport, making them an ideal solution for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and van life. These power stations are designed to provide a convenient and reliable source of power for a range of applications, including charging phones, laptops, and cameras, running lights and fans, and powering appliances like fridges and stoves.
Are you a van life enthusiast looking to explore the great outdoors without giving up modern conveniences? Are you planning a road trip and need a reliable power source to keep your devices charged and your appliances running? If yes, you are in the right place. This article will reveal to you the best portable power stations for van life. Stay connected and read on.

Image Source: Pinterest

This article is geared towards van lifers, RVers, campers, hikers, and anyone else who needs a portable power source for their outdoor adventures. We know that having a reliable power supply is crucial for staying connected, powering appliances, and enjoying a comfortable camping experience.
Overview of the Top 5 Hot-Selling Portable Power Stations for Van Life on the Market Include:

1. EcoFlow Delta 2 Portable Power Station
2. Anker 535 Portable Power Station
3. BLUETTI AC50S Portable Power Station
4. Jackery Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station
5. Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Portable Power Station

1. EcoFlow Delta 2 Portable Power Station

The EcoFlow Delta 2 is a powerful Power Station with a high-capacity battery. It can power multiple devices and appliances simultaneously.

Image Source: Pinterest

This Portable Power Station has its own Unique Features and specifications. These include:

• Dimension (15.7 x 8.3 x 10.6 inches)
• Wattage (1800W surge)
• Capacity (1260Wh)
• Multiple output ports (6 AC outlets, 4 USB-A ports, 2 USB-C ports, 2 DC outlets, and 1 car port)
• Rechargeable via AC outlet or solar panels (not included)
• LCD screen displays battery level, input/output power, and charging time
• Fast recharge time of 1.6 hours with EcoFlow’s X-Stream technology
• Compatible with third-party solar panels
• Portable design with built-in handle and wheels
• Weight (33.6 lbs)
• Operating temperature: 32°F-104°F
• Color: Black

Pros and Cons of EcoFlow Delta 2 Portable Power Station based on Users’ experience Include:

1. Variety of output ports, including six AC outlets. It is useful for larger power needs
2. Fast recharge time of 1.6 hours with X-Stream technology. It is a significant advantage over other portable power stations
3. Portable design with built-in handles and wheels makes it easy to transport
4. Compatibility with third-party solar panels which allows for more flexible charging options.

Cons Include:

1. Price point of the EcoFlow Delta 2 may be higher than other portable power stations on the market
2. Some users have reported issues with the battery draining quickly when powering larger appliances.
3. EcoFlow Delta 2 may be very heavy for some users to carry.
4. The lack of a built-in flashlight or other additional features may be a disadvantage for some users.

Average Price Range: $949–$1,099
Product Link: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1727801-REG/b3_fmkz_ull_ecoflow_zmr330_us_delta_2_portable_power.html?kw=ECZMR330&ap=y&smp=y&BI=E6540&smpm=e_f83mkz_ull
Critic Review: https://www.storagereview.com/review/ecoflow-delta-2-review

2. Anker 535 Portable Power Station

Image Source: Pinterest

This Portable Power Station has its own Unique Features and specifications. These include:

• Dimension (7.87 x 6.54 x 5.47 inches)
• Capacity (546Wh)
• Multiple output ports (1 AC outlet, 3 USB-A ports, 2 USB-C ports, 1 DC carport, and 2 DC outlets)
• Rechargeable via AC outlet, carport, or solar panels (not included)
• LCD screen displays battery level, input/output power, and charging time
• Built-in flashlight
• Compact and portable design
• Rated output power: 500W
• Input: AC adapter (90W), car charger (60W), or solar panel (120W)
• Weight: 14.3 lbs
• Operating temperature: 32°F-104°
• Color:Black

Pros and cons of Anker Powerhouse 535 Portable Power Station based on users’ experience Include:

1. Anker Powerhouse 535 has a high-capacity battery that can power multiple devices and appliances.
2. The variety of output ports, including USB-C ports, allows for flexible charging options.
3. The LCD screen displays useful information about the battery level and charging status.
4. The compact and portable design makes it easy to transport and use on the go.
5. The built-in flashlight is a helpful feature for outdoor activities or emergency situations.

Cons Include:

1. The price point of the Anker Powerhouse 535 may be higher than other portable power stations on the market.
2. Some users have reported that the battery drains quickly when powering larger appliances.
3. The power station may take several hours to recharge fully, depending on the method used.
4. The weight of the Anker Powerhouse 535 may be heavy for some users to carry.

Average Price Range: $490–$500
Product Link: https://us.anker.com/products/a1751?variant=41686355771542&currency=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic

3. BLUETTI AC50S Portable Power Station

Image Source: Pinterest

This Portable Power Station has its own Unique Features and specifications. These include:

• Dimension: 11.6 x 7.5 x 7.7 inches.
• Capacity: The BLUETTI AC50S Portable Power Station has a 500Wh lithium battery that can power various devices.
• It has a variety of output ports, including AC, DC, USB-A, and USB-C, to charge and power different devices simultaneously.
• The power station is compact and portable, weighing only 13.6 pounds and featuring a convenient carrying handle.
• It has multiple charging options, including solar, AC power, and car charging.
• The power station also features a built-in MPPT controller, which can optimize solar panel charging efficiency.
• AC Output: 110V/300W (surge 500W)
• DC Output: 12V/10A
• USB-A Output: 5V/2.4A
• USB-C Output: 5V/3A, 9V/2A, 12V/1.5A
• Charging Time: 7-8 hours (AC power), 7-8 hours (car charging), 5-8 hours (solar charging with 200W solar panel)
• Color: Gray, Blue and Orange

Pros and cons of the BLUETTI AC50S Portable Power Station based on users’ experiences Include:

1. Good value for its price
2. Multiple output ports for charging different device
3. Lightweight and portability

Cons Include:

1. Limited AC output compared to other models
2. Some users reported issues with the wireless charging pad

Average Price Range: $359–$380
Product Link: https://wellbots.com/products/bluetti-ac50s-portable-power-station-1-pv120-solar-panel?variant=40012012126256&dfw_tracker=14110-40012012126256&srsltid=AfAwrE5aAIHTm_sCPY67k7ajMQMDEM4Uzb2Z9nVd4027QBiwELtnPAMW6C8
Critic Review: https://www.zdnet.com/product/bluetti-ac50s-portable-power-station/

4. Jackery Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station

Image Source: Pinterest

This Portable Power Station has its own Unique Features and specifications. These include:

• Dimension: 15.2 x 11.1 x 9.2 inches
• Weight: 38.6 pounds
• High Capacity: 1488Wh/1000W Battery Capacity, 1800W Surge Capacity
• Multiple Device Charging: 3 AC outlets, 2 USB-C ports, 2 USB-A ports, 1 DC car port, and 1 12V/10A car port.
• User-friendly LCD screen displays the remaining power, charging status, and alerts.
• Rechargeable with solar panels, car chargers, or AC outlets
• Battery Type: Lithium-ion battery
• Charge time: 7.5 hours (AC) / 7.5 hours (SolarSaga 100W) / 4 hours (Using 2 x SolarSaga 100W in parallel with
• 3.5mm adapter cable)
• Lifecycle: 500 cycles to 80%
• Operating Temperature: 14°F to 104°F
• Warranty: 24 months
• Color: Black and Orange

Pros and Cons of Jackery Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station based on users’ experience Include:

1. High battery capacity and surge power capability
2. Multiple device charging options
3. User-friendly LCD display
4. Rechargeable with various methods including solar panels

Cons Include:

1. Heavy and not very portable
2. Quite expensive compared to other options in the market

Comparison of the products

1. When compared to the BLUETTI AC50S, the Jackery Explorer 1500 has a higher battery capacity and surge power, but it is heavier and more expensive.
2. When compared to Anker 535, the Jackery Explorer 1500 has a higher battery capacity and more device charging options, but it is heavier and more expensive.

Average Price Range: $1,689–$1,700
Product Link: https://www.jackery.com/products/explorer-1500-portable-power-station?variant=39256016748631&currency=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic
Critic Review: https://geekdad.com/2021/05/geekdad-review-jackerys-explorer-1500-may-be-the-ultimate-portable-power-station/

5. Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Portable Power Station

Image Source: Pinterest

This Portable Power Station has its own Unique Features and specifications. These include:

• Dimension: Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 11.25 x 7.0 inches
• Weight: 16.3 pounds
• High Capacity: 428Wh/39.6Ah Battery Capacity
• Multiple Device Charging: 2 USB ports, 1 USB-C port, 2 AC outlets, 2 6mm 12V ports, and 1 12V car port.
• LCD Display: Real-time power input and output monitoring and battery level display.
• Rechargeable with solar panels or wall outlets
• Special Battery Type: Lithium-ion battery
• Charge time: 7 hours (AC) / 4 hours (Boulder 50 Solar Panel) / 8-16 hours (Nomad 100 Solar Panel)
• Lifecycle: 500 cycles to 80%
• Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F
• Warranty: 24 months
• Color: Black and Green

Pros and Cons of the Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Portable Power Station based on users’ experience Include:

1. Lightweight and portability
2. Multiple device charging options
3. LCD display for real-time monitoring
4. Rechargeable with solar panels or wall outlet

Cons Include:

1. Lower battery capacity compared to other options in the market
2. Limited surge power capability

Comparison of the products

1. When compared to BLUETTI AC50S and Jackery Explorer 1500, Goal Zero Yeti 400 has a lower battery capacity and surge power capability, but it is more lightweight and portable.
2. When compared to Anker 535, the Goal Zero Yeti 400 has a higher battery capacity and more device charging options, but it is heavier and less portable.

Average Price Range: $450–$460
Product Link: https://www.acehardware.com/departments/lawn-and-garden/outdoor-power-equipment/generators/3894698
Critic Review: https://greencitizen.com/blog/goal-zero-yeti-400/

How to Choose The Best Portable Power Station for Van Life

You need to consider the following salient factors:

1. Power output

Power output is an essential feature for van life enthusiasts. It determines the number of devices that can be charged simultaneously and the amount of time it takes to charge them. The power output should be sufficient to power all essential electronics and appliances in your van setup.

2.Battery capacity

Battery capacity is another important feature to consider. It determines how long the power station can provide power to your devices before needing to be recharged. The battery capacity should be chosen based on your power needs and the length of time you plan to be off-grid.

3. Input and Output ports

The input and output ports of the power station are also important factors to consider. They determine the types of devices and appliances that can be charged and the speed at which they can be charged. The power station should have multiple input and output ports to support all your charging needs.

4. Weight and portability

The weight and portability of the power station are also crucial, especially for van life enthusiasts. They have limited space and weight capacity. The power station should be lightweight, compact, and easy to transport.

5. Durability and quality

The durability and quality built of the power station are also essential factors to consider. They determine the longevity and reliability of the product. The power station should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of van life.
Other additional features that the Portable Power Station may have include, built-in lights, USB-C ports, or an LCD screen. These features can add convenience and functionality to your van life setup.

5 Best portable power stations brands for Van Life 2023

1. Sunly Portable Power Station

This is the Overall best Power Station available. When it comes to choosing the best portable power station for van life, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important aspects is the quality of the product. Sunly, a leading factory in the portable power station industry, offers a range of high-quality products that meet the needs of van lifers.
Some of the noticeable qualities include:

2. Customization capability

One of the standout features of Sunly Portable Power Station is its customization capability. You can choose from a variety of battery capacities, solar panel options, and other features to create a power station that meets your specific needs.

3. Low MOQ

Sunly Power also offers a low minimum order quantity (MOQ), so even if you’re just starting out with van life, you can still get a high-quality portable power station without having to order in bulk.

4. Premium Quality

The Sunly Portable Power Station comes directly from the factory. This makes it provide premium quality and attention to detail in every unit

5. Factory pricing

It makes you enjoy competitive factory pricing, which is a great option for those on low budget scale. Those who don’t want to sacrifice quality for affordability.
Sunly offers the ability to customize their power stations to fit the specific needs of their customers. It has a low MOQ requirement of just 100 units. Their power stations are of high quality, because they produce their own products. They also offer factory pricing that is more affordable than many competitors.

6. Capacity:

The Sunly Portable Power Station has a capacity of 500Wh. It can power various appliances such as laptops, lights, and small kitchen appliances. It also has a peak power output of 1000W, making it suitable for powering more demanding appliances.
Content angle you can refer:

Other Related Power Station products worth mentioning include:

1. Bluetti AC50S Portable Power Station: With a capacity of 500Wh, the Bluetti AC50S is a reliable portable power station that can power a range of devices. It comes with multiple output ports, including AC, DC, and USB, and has a durable build quality.
2. EcoFlow Delta 2 Portable Power Station: The EcoFlow Delta 2 is a powerful portable power station with a capacity of 1260Wh. It has a sleek design and comes with multiple output ports, making it ideal for van life.
3. Jackery Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station: The Jackery Explorer 1500 has a capacity of 1488Wh, making it suitable for powering multiple devices while on the go. It has a durable build quality and comes with multiple output ports, including AC, DC, and USB.

Of the above listed Power Stations, BLUETTI AC50S Portable Power Station is the most affordable device. If you’re on a tight budget and looking for a reliable portable power station, the BLUETTI AC50S is a great option to consider. It offers a good balance of power and affordability, making it an excellent choice for those who want to power their van life adventures without breaking the bank.
In terms of charging power, Jackery Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station is a long-lasting power solution for your outdoor activities, emergency backup, and off-grid adventures.
Talking of Portability, Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Portable Power Station is the best option to go for. It stands out as the most compact and lightweight option, making it an excellent choice for those who value mobility.

How to use a portable power station for Van Life

Step 1: Set up the portable power station

• Determine the ideal location for your power station inside your van.
• Place the power station on a flat surface, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or moisture.
• Ensure proper ventilation around the power station to avoid overheating.

Step 2: Charge the portable power station

• Use the appropriate charging method for your power station, such as an AC wall charger, DC car charger, or solar panel.
• Make sure to use compatible chargers and cables recommended by the power station manufacturer.
• Check the power station’s battery level indicator to know when it’s fully charged.

Step 3: Connect compatible devices to the portable power station

• Identify the wattage and voltage requirements of your devices before connecting them to the power station.
• Use the appropriate power outlets or ports available on the power station for your devices.
• Avoid overloading the power station by not exceeding its maximum capacity.
• Monitor the power station’s battery level and turn off devices when not in use to conserve power.

Conclusion

Portable power stations provide a convenient and reliable source of power for various purposes, including van life and outdoor adventures. They offer several benefits such as being eco-friendly, noise-free, and portable, making them a great alternative to traditional gasoline generators. Our recommendations for the best portable power stations in different categories can help readers make an informed decision when purchasing one that fits their needs. With the right portable power station, users can enjoy the convenience of having power on-the-go, whether for camping trips, remote work, or emergency situations.