Camping is probably one of the first things that come to mind at the mention of portable batteries. Enjoying the great outdoors is indeed better with a few comforts by your side, be it a camping fridge or a mini heater. Portable batteries are also associated with different kinds of camping power packs. It can be the handy, portable power banks used to charge gadgets such as mobile phones, or the portable power stations perfect for short day trips. Another type-and the most important one-is the larger batteries used for powering essential appliances. These are either gel batteries, AGM batteries, and lithium batteries.
Despite many types of battery packs for camping, outdoor enthusiasts know that if you're after top-notch quality and superior performance, lithium batteries are the best pick. LiFePO4 batteries in particular are garnering the most attention due to their intelligent battery management system (BMS) that allows for maintenance-free use. Thanks to this feature, you no longer have to keep tracking your battery to prevent overcharging, undercharging, overheating, and short circuits. A LiFePO4 is incombustible as well, so safety is not a problem. Despite the higher upfront cost, this battery has proven to be the more cost-effective choice, especially for those who are after a battery that will last for years.
What Are the Best Portable Battery Packs In Australia?
Want to make sure you get a great portable battery pack? Check out some of the most popular brands below in the lithium battery and lithium power station categories.
EcoFlow Portable Power Station: Introducing the world's fastest charging power station! You can never go wrong with this, and with four main models to choose from, you're sure to find something that best fits your need. For instance, if you want something that charges in less than two hours, the EcoFlow DELTA MAX Portable Power Station is perfect for you. Need something for smaller devices? The EcoFlow River600 Portable Power Station can power them in 96 minutes flat!
Enerdrive B-TEC 125AH Lithium Battery: Enerdrive has been a frontrunner in the lithium battery market for years now. Their B-TEC lithium battery is built 50% lighter and 30% smaller for maximum portability. This battery is equipped with high-quality prismatic cells paired with a built-in battery BMS to give you the best performance with every use. Enerdrive also keeps up with modern technology-this portable lithium battery pack is compatible with iPhones to allow easy checking of your battery's metrics.
Goal Zero Lithium Battery Pack: Offering a variety of sizes, this portable battery boasts a built-in inverter so you won't have to buy a separate one for running 240V appliances. It also has integrated surge allowances and multi-stage protection for greater compatibility with devices. Offered in six capacities, this camping battery provides a handy solution to your outdoor power needs.
How Low Can You Discharge a LiFePO4 Battery?
LiFePO4 batteries are deep-cycle batteries too, so they can be discharged down to 80% and still provide you with reliable power. Some LiFePO4 models are designed for 100% capacity use, but to maintain their condition for longer, it's best to keep it at an 80% minimum and avoid frequently draining your battery completely. Whether you have a 100Ah deep-cycle battery or 200Ah lithium battery, maintaining a healthy level of discharge and properly recharging your battery are keys to ensuring years of consistent service.
How To Store Portable Lithium Batteries?
Proper storage is crucial during the off-season when you won't really need your camping battery. Make sure you store them in a cool dry place with a temperature range of -5 to +35°C. Keep it topped off before storing and disconnect the wires, as well as any load attached to it. Lithium batteries have a 2% self-discharge rate, so a partial discharge before storing might lead to a drained battery. If you're keeping them together with your entire system including the inverter and charger, it's a good idea to use a battery guardian. This will protect your portable lithium battery by disconnecting them from parasitic loads once it reaches a voltage level of 11.5V.