How to Keep Electronics Charged in the Backcountry

Blog
30 Jun, 2025
Posted By: Adele P

From GPS devices and headlamps to satellite messengers and smartphones, modern backcountry adventurers rely more than ever on electronics. While going off-grid once meant leaving tech behind, today’s gear often depends on a steady supply of power — especially for safety, navigation, and communication. Whether you’re out for a multi-day backpacking trip, a remote hunt, or a backcountry ski tour, here’s how to keep your electronics charged when you're far from the nearest outlet.

1. Start with Fully Charged Devices

Before heading into the wilderness, fully charge all your devices at home. This may seem obvious, but it’s your first line of defense against running out of juice. Consider putting your devices in airplane or battery-saver mode while packing to prevent idle battery drain.

2. Choose Low-Power Electronics

Selecting electronics with efficient power usage helps extend battery life. For example:

Smartphones in airplane mode can last several days.
GPS watches with long battery life and power-saving modes are ideal for tracking.
LED headlamps are vastly more efficient than older bulb models.
Kindles or e-readers can go for weeks on one charge, ideal for reading maps or books.

3. Bring a Power Bank

A portable USB power bank is the simplest way to recharge electronics in the backcountry. Look for these features:

Capacity: Measured in mAh. A 10,000 mAh bank can recharge most smartphones 2–3 times.
Weight vs. Power Tradeoff: Larger banks can be heavy, so assess your trip length and power needs carefully.
Ruggedness: Waterproof or shockproof models are best for rough terrain.

Pro Tip: Charge your power bank at home, and store it in a warm place inside your pack to prevent cold-related power loss.

4. Use Solar Panels for Longer Trips

For extended trips (5+ days), solar chargers can keep power flowing.

Portable solar panels can charge devices directly or refill your power bank during daylight hours.
Panel size and wattage affect charge speed — 10W or higher is best for phone-sized devices.
Weather and sunlight exposure are critical; solar isn’t reliable under tree cover or during overcast days.

Attach the panel to your pack while hiking, or set it up at camp during breaks for optimal sun exposure.

5. Consider Lightweight Battery Packs

Some devices, like GPS beacons and headlamps, run on AA or AAA batteries. Bring extra lithium batteries, which are lighter, longer-lasting, and perform better in cold temperatures than alkaline.

6. Manage and Conserve Power Wisely

Turn off devices when not in use.
Use airplane mode to stop battery-draining signal searches.
Lower screen brightness and disable unnecessary apps or sensors.
Prioritize power use for critical functions like maps, SOS signals, or weather updates.

7. Cold Weather Battery Tips

Cold temperatures sap battery life quickly. To prevent this:

Store electronics and batteries in insulated pouches or inside your sleeping bag at night.
Keep phones or power banks close to your body while hiking.
Avoid letting lithium batteries freeze, which can permanently reduce their capacity.

Backup Charging Methods (Optional for Extreme Expeditions)

For backcountry travelers who are out for weeks or in expedition-style environments, consider:

Hand-crank chargers (not efficient, but usable in emergencies)
Small fuel-based generators (for group basecamps or scientific teams)
Rechargeable battery packs with replaceable battery cores

Conclusion

Keeping electronics charged in the backcountry is all about balance — between power supply, device usage, and trip duration. For most backpackers or hunters on trips under a week, a quality power bank and smart usage are enough. For longer outings, solar charging or spare lithium batteries can keep your gear functional. And remember, conserving power through smart habits is often just as important as bringing more of it.

By planning ahead and choosing the right gear, you can stay connected, navigate accurately, and be better prepared — even deep in the backcountry.

Foundry Outdoors is your trusted home for buying archery, camping, fishing, hunting, shooting sports, and outdoor gear online.

We offer cheap ammo and bulk ammo deals on the most popular ammo calibers. We have a variety of deals on Rifle Ammo, Handgun Ammo, Shotgun Ammo & Rimfire Ammo, as well as ammo for target practice, plinking, hunting, or shooting competitions. Our website lists special deals on 9mm Ammo, 10mm Ammo, 45-70 Ammo, 6.5 Creedmoor ammo, 300 Blackout Ammo, 10mm Ammo, 5.56 Ammo, Underwood Ammo, Buffalo Bore Ammo and more special deals on bulk ammo.