Action Camera Battery Pack Tips for Longer Adventures

Maximize your action camera’s runtime by using high-capacity, portable battery packs designed for rugged, on-the-go adventures. These power solutions ensure uninterrupted recording during long hikes, dives, or road trips by offering reliable, fast-charging performance in extreme conditions. Always opt for weather-resistant, lightweight models with USB-C compatibility to stay powered without adding bulk.

Key Takeaways

• Carry spares: Always pack extra batteries for uninterrupted filming.
• Use power banks: Charge on the go with high-capacity power banks.
• Optimize settings: Lower screen brightness to save battery life.
• Turn off Wi-Fi: Disable wireless features when not in use.
• Store properly: Keep batteries cool and dry to maintain performance.

Why Your Action Camera Battery Pack Can Make or Break Your Adventure

Remember that time you hiked to the top of a mountain, only to realize your action camera died halfway up? Or maybe you were kayaking through a remote canyon, capturing every splash and turn—until the battery blinked red at the most dramatic moment. It’s frustrating, right? We’ve all been there. Action cameras are incredible tools for capturing life’s wildest moments, but their batteries? Not so much. That’s where a reliable action camera battery pack comes in—your secret weapon for longer, uninterrupted adventures.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time content creator, the right battery setup can be the difference between a perfect shot and a missed opportunity. But with so many options out there—from spare batteries to external power banks and solar chargers—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? A few smart choices and simple habits can keep your camera rolling all day (and night) long. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about action camera battery packs, from choosing the right gear to maximizing your runtime. No fluff, no hype—just real-world tips to help you stay powered up when it matters most.

Understanding Action Camera Battery Basics

How Long Do Action Camera Batteries Last?

Most action cameras, like GoPros or DJI Action models, come with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that typically last 60 to 90 minutes under normal use. But that number drops fast if you’re shooting in 4K, using stabilization, or recording in cold weather. For example, shooting 4K/60fps can drain a battery in as little as 45 minutes. And if you’re using Wi-Fi, GPS, or a touchscreen, expect even faster power loss.

Think of it this way: if you’re planning a 4-hour hike with scenic stops, your stock battery won’t cut it. That’s why having a backup action camera battery pack—whether it’s a spare battery, a power bank, or a hybrid solution—isn’t just helpful; it’s essential.

Types of Action Camera Battery Packs

• Spare OEM Batteries: These are the official batteries made by your camera’s brand (e.g., GoPro Enduro). They’re reliable and designed to fit perfectly, but they’re not cheap. A single spare can cost $25–$40.
• Third-Party Batteries: Brands like Wasabi, Smatree, or Neewer offer affordable alternatives. They often provide higher capacity (mAh) than OEM batteries, but quality varies. Always read reviews and avoid knockoffs.
• External Power Banks: A portable USB-C or USB-A power bank can charge your camera on the go. Look for one with at least 10,000mAh capacity for multiple charges. Bonus: it can also charge your phone or GPS.
• Multi-Battery Charging Hubs: These let you charge 2–4 batteries at once. Great if you’re prepping for a long trip or shooting with multiple cameras.
• Solar-Powered Chargers: Ideal for multi-day hikes or remote trips. A solar panel (20W or higher) paired with a power bank lets you recharge using sunlight. Just don’t rely on it in cloudy weather!

Pro tip: I once took a 3-day backpacking trip with only one spare battery. By day two, I was rationing shots like a film photographer. Lesson learned: always pack at least two spares or a power bank. Your future self will thank you.

Choosing the Right Battery Pack for Your Needs

Assessing Your Adventure Type

Not all adventures are created equal—and your battery needs will change depending on the trip. Here’s how to match your action camera battery pack to your activity:

• Day Hikes (3–6 hours): One spare battery or a 5,000mAh power bank should be enough. Focus on lightweight options.
• Weekend Camping (1–3 days): Bring 2–3 spare batteries or a 10,000mAh power bank. Consider a charging hub if you’re prepping at home.
• Multi-Day Expeditions (4+ days): Combine 3+ batteries with a high-capacity power bank (20,000mAh+) and a solar charger. Redundancy is key here.
• Urban Exploration: A compact power bank (like Anker PowerCore 5000) works great. Bonus: it doubles as a phone charger.
• Water Sports (kayaking, surfing): Use waterproof battery cases or a floating power bank. Saltwater is brutal on electronics.

For example, when I filmed a 7-day kayaking trip in Alaska, I packed 4 spare GoPro batteries, a 20,000mAh Anker power bank, and a 21W solar panel. It was overkill for the first few days, but by day five—when we were 50 miles from civilization—I was grateful for every milliamp.

Key Features to Look For

• Capacity (mAh): Higher = more charges. A 10,000mAh power bank can charge a GoPro 3–4 times. But bigger batteries are heavier.
• Charging Speed: Look for power banks with USB-C PD (Power Delivery) or Quick Charge support. A 15W+ charger cuts wait time in half.
• Durability: If you’re rough on gear, choose a shockproof, water-resistant battery pack (IP67 rating).
• Size/Weight: For hiking, every ounce counts. A slim 10,000mAh bank is better than a bulky 20,000mAh brick.
• Compatibility: Ensure the power bank supports your camera’s input (e.g., USB-C for newer GoPros). Some older models need a Micro-USB cable.

One thing I learned the hard way: cheap power banks often lose capacity over time. After a year of use, my no-name 20,000mAh bank barely held a 10,000mAh charge. Invest in quality—brands like Anker, Goal Zero, or RAVPower are worth the extra $10–$20.

Maximizing Battery Life: Smart Usage Tips

Settings That Drain Your Battery Fast

Your camera’s settings have a huge impact on battery life. Here’s what to adjust:

• Resolution/FPS: 4K/60fps uses 30% more power than 1080p/30fps. If you don’t need ultra-HD, drop to 2.7K or 1080p.
• Stabilization: Hypersmooth (GoPro) or RockSteady (DJI) eats battery. Turn it off for static shots or use it selectively.
• Wi-Fi/Bluetooth: These stay on by default. Disable them unless you’re live-streaming or using a remote.
• Screen Brightness: Lower it to 50% or less. On bright days, use the screen sparingly.
• GPS: Great for geotagging, but it drains power. Disable it if you don’t need location data.

I once shot a 2-hour time-lapse with GPS and stabilization on. The battery died in 80 minutes. Lesson: turn off everything you don’t need. A 30-second settings check can double your runtime.

Pro Techniques for Longer Shoots

• Use Burst Mode: Instead of recording continuously, shoot 5–10 second bursts. You’ll save power and avoid 2-hour clips of “nothing happening.”
• Carry a “Cold” Spare: Batteries lose power in cold weather. Keep a spare in an inner pocket (next to your body heat) to extend its life.
• Pre-Charge All Batteries: Don’t wait until they’re dead. Charge them to 80–90% the night before. Lithium-ion batteries degrade if stored at 100%.
• Use a Battery Grip: Some cameras (like GoPro) have optional grips that hold extra batteries. It adds bulk, but it’s a game-changer for all-day shoots.
• Monitor Battery %: Check your camera’s battery level often. Many models show it in the corner of the screen.

Here’s a real-world example: during a 5-day trek in Patagonia, I used 3 spare batteries, but by managing settings and using burst mode, I only needed to swap twice. The rest of the time, I relied on my power bank—charged via solar during lunch breaks.

Top Battery Pack Options for Action Cameras

Best All-Around Power Banks

These power banks balance capacity, speed, and portability:

• Anker PowerCore 10000 (USB-C): 10,000mAh, 18W PD, compact design. Charges a GoPro 3–4 times. $30–$40.
• RAVPower 20000mAh PD Pioneer: 20,000mAh, dual USB-C ports, 30W charging. Great for multi-day trips. $50–$60.
• Goal Zero Nomad 20: 20W solar panel + 20,000mAh battery. Perfect for remote adventures. $150–$180.

Anker’s 10,000mAh bank is my go-to for day trips. It fits in a jacket pocket and has never let me down. For longer trips, the RAVPower 20000mAh is worth the weight.

Best Spare Batteries & Charging Hubs

• GoPro Enduro Battery (OEM): 1720mAh, performs better in cold weather. $40.
• Wasabi Power 2-Pack (for GoPro): 1220mAh each, includes USB-C cable. $25. A solid budget pick.
• Smatree 4-Bay Charging Hub (for GoPro): Charges 4 batteries simultaneously. $35. Saves time before a big trip.
• DJI Osmo Action 3 Battery: 1770mAh, fast charging (50% in 18 mins). $45.

Pro tip: I keep a charging hub at home and a spare battery in my camera bag. That way, I’m never caught off-guard.

Data Table: Action Camera Battery Pack Comparison

Product Type	Example Model	Capacity (mAh)	Weight (oz)	Best For	Price Range
Spare Battery (OEM)	GoPro Enduro	1720	1.4	Reliability, cold weather	$40
Spare Battery (3rd Party)	Wasabi Power 2-Pack	1220 x2	1.2	Budget-friendly	$25
Power Bank	Anker PowerCore 10000	10,000	6.5	Day trips, lightweight	$30–$40
Power Bank	RAVPower 20000mAh	20,000	13.4	Multi-day trips	$50–$60
Solar Charger	Goal Zero Nomad 20	20,000 (battery)	20.8	Remote/backcountry	$150–$180
Charging Hub	Smatree 4-Bay	N/A	4.8	Pre-trip prep	$35

Real Talk: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overpacking or Underpacking

It’s tempting to bring every battery you own—but that adds weight and bulk. On the flip side, packing just one spare is risky. The sweet spot? 2–3 spares + a power bank for trips under 3 days. For longer trips, add a solar charger.

I once brought 5 spare batteries on a 2-day trip. By day one, my backpack felt like a brick. Now, I stick to a “less is more” approach: 2 spares, 1 power bank, and a solar panel for emergencies.

Ignoring Battery Health

• Never drain batteries to 0%: It stresses the cells. Recharge at 20–30%.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: Don’t leave batteries in a hot car or freezing tent overnight.
• Store at 50% charge: If you won’t use a battery for months, charge it to half and store in a cool, dry place.

My oldest GoPro battery (5 years old) still holds 80% of its original capacity—because I followed these rules. Your batteries will last years if you treat them right.

Relying on a Single Power Source

What if your power bank dies? Or your solar panel gets cloudy? Always have a backup plan. For example:

• Carry a hand-crank charger (like the Eton Sidekick) for emergencies.
• Bring a car charger if you’re driving to your adventure.
• Use AA battery adapters (some cameras support them).

On a 10-day trek in the Rockies, my solar panel failed on day six. But I had a hand-crank charger and a car charger in my rental—so I stayed powered up. Redundancy saved the trip.

Adventure is unpredictable. But with the right action camera battery pack strategy, you’ll never miss a shot due to a dead battery. Whether you’re scaling mountains, diving reefs, or exploring cities, these tips—from smart settings to reliable gear—will keep your camera rolling. Remember: it’s not about having the most batteries; it’s about using them wisely. So pack smart, charge often, and get out there. The next epic moment is waiting—and this time, you’ll be ready to capture it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an action camera battery pack typically last?

Most action camera battery packs last between 1.5 to 3 hours per charge, depending on the model, resolution, and features like Wi-Fi or image stabilization. Carrying spare batteries or a portable power bank can extend your recording time significantly.

Can I use a third-party battery pack with my action camera?

Yes, but ensure the third-party action camera battery pack matches the voltage and connector type of your device. Poor-quality batteries may damage your camera or deliver inconsistent performance.

What’s the best way to store action camera batteries?

Store batteries at 40–60% charge in a cool, dry place to prolong lifespan. Avoid extreme temperatures, which can degrade lithium-ion cells over time.

How do I charge multiple batteries efficiently for long trips?

Use a multi-bay charger or a portable power bank with USB output to charge several action camera battery packs simultaneously. This ensures you have enough power for extended adventures.

Are there battery packs with built-in power banks for action cameras?

Yes, some models feature integrated power banks, letting you charge your camera and other devices like phones. These are ideal for off-grid trips where access to electricity is limited.

How can I extend my action camera’s battery life while filming?

Turn off Wi-Fi, GPS, and image stabilization when not needed, and lower screen brightness. Use airplane mode or eco settings to reduce power consumption during recording.