CNET’s Camping Tech Roundup: We Tested Top Gear in Outdoor Adventures

Why I like it: The Bluetti Handsfree 2 was the perfect addition to my gear because I prefer glamping to camping. I like the option of carrying my electronics with me into the wild and charging my devices while camping. Normally, this would require you to carry a heavy portable power station separately from the rest of your camping gear, but the Handsfree 2 makes this a lot easier by pairing a 60-liter, capacious backpack with a heavy-duty 512Wh portable power station. I was able to pack extra clothes, gear, supplies, and electronics inside, while still making sure I had the power I needed to keep them charged. 

Who is this for:  The Handsfree 2 is great for anyone who takes a lot of electronics into the field, from photographers to reporters to tech junkies. It’s specially designed for camera enthusiasts, with plenty of compartments with removable dividers for lenses and accessories. 

I also really liked that there are five output options (two USB-A, two USB-C, and a 700W AC outlet) to charge almost anything I needed to juice up in the field, including my laptop, tablet, phones, and gaming handhelds several times over. 

It’s also perfect for tent camping or for a long stint in a cabin that isn’t connected to the grid. Anything with a standard, three-prong AC plug can also be powered for a long time, and I was able to keep my camping light and a mini-fridge going for hours. Candles and lanterns are nice, but for me, there’s nothing quite as comforting (or easy to read by) as a proper lamp in the depths of night in the woods. The Handsfree 2 can keep a camping lantern powered for hours, if not days. Pair it with one of Bluetti’s 100W solar panels (sold separately, or in a bundle with the Handsfree 2), and you’ve got unlimited power for camping, outdoor photography or any other off-grid adventures.

Who shouldn’t buy it:  While it’s fantastic for camping, the Handsfree 2 is a bulky, heavy unit, and I didn’t find it suitable for long hiking trips. Even empty, it’ll weigh 16.5 pounds. When fully loaded, you’re looking at anywhere between 45 to 50 pounds on your back. You also won’t be able to pack as much as you expect for a 60L backpack because the power station takes up a lot of space, leaving less room for other essentials. Finally, I didn’t like that the 100W solar panel is a separate purchase and doesn’t come included by default. 

–Alan Bradley