Long travel days can be tricky when your laptop starts running low and there’s no power outlet nearby. Whether you're flying across the country or taking a slow train through New South Wales, keeping your laptop charged helps you stay productive, entertained, or in touch.
Having the right backup gear makes a big difference. You don’t need anything complicated, just something reliable that works when you need it. The best powerbanks for laptops are not just about big batteries. They're made to keep up with the power needs of modern devices during those long stretches without outlets. A little planning goes a long way in keeping your tech running while you're on the move.
Plan Ahead: Know What You’ll Need
Before heading out, take a few minutes to think through your day. What kind of travel are you doing? Will you be in one place for a long time with no wall outlets nearby? Are you working while moving, or just using the laptop here and there?
Those bits of info help you decide how much extra charge you might need. A short domestic flight might only need a small portable battery. A long-haul travel day split across airports and buses probably calls for something better. If your laptop drains quickly, it’s safer to carry more backup than less.
Here are a few things to sort out before you leave:
• How long you'll go without easy access to charging stations
• Whether or not you'll be actively using your laptop on the go
• How full your laptop battery usually stays after everyday use
• Whether your powerbank is fully charged and packed somewhere handy
Packing your charger in your suitcase doesn’t help much if your battery runs flat while you're still mid-trip. Having it charged and within reach is key.
Pick the Right Power Bank for the Job
Not every charger you find will work with a laptop. Some are made for phones or earbuds, with low power output that won’t do much for your computer. If you’ve ever plugged into a tiny travel battery and wondered why nothing’s happening, this might be the reason.
Laptops need a powerbank with higher watt output, especially when you're using the laptop and charging it at the same time. Something with USB-C and Power Delivery support is usually a good match for newer models. It's also smart to check your laptop’s power input: the figure is often written on the charger or under the device, and find a powerbank that meets or beats that number.
When looking at the best powerbanks for laptops, some handy features to keep in mind include:
• Large battery capacity, measured in mAh (good for multiple charges)
• Fast charging speeds with enough wattage to power laptops
• Durable, compact build that fits easily in a carry-on or day bag
Not every day on the road is smooth, and your charger might get knocked around or jammed into tight corners. Pick something well-built that won’t let you down mid-flight or halfway through a work session at a café.
Charge Smart While on the Go
Once you’re set up with the right gear, the next step is using it smartly. If you only use your powerbank when the laptop hits 5 percent, you might find yourself stuck more often than not. Topping up a little at a time keeps your devices healthier and leaves room for surprises.
Try plugging in whenever you slow down. If you're stopping for food, waiting for your ride, or resting at a gate, it’s a good time to connect your laptop to the battery pack. You don’t need to wait until the battery hits zero.
A few quick tips for getting the most out of your charge:
• Use battery saver mode or dim your screen while travelling
• Close any programs running in the background that you're not actually using
• Avoid editing large files or streaming video unless your battery’s in good shape
• Make sure the USB-C cable and powerbank are packed where you can reach them
Nothing’s more frustrating than needing your charger at the bottom of your bag with no time or space to dig it out.
Avoid Common Charging Mistakes
It’s easy to treat a powerbank like something you can plug in and forget. But a few small habits help it last longer and charge more smoothly.
First, avoid charging your laptop while it’s tucked into a laptop sleeve or tight bag. These setups can trap heat, which slows down charge and might even wear out the battery. Take the laptop out and let it get a bit of airflow while charging.
Avoid using cheap charging cables or adapters picked up at the last minute. Poor-quality plugs can interrupt charging or be too slow to help much. Stick with your usual charging gear when possible, and pack spares if you're likely to need them.
Another common miss is forgetting to charge the powerbank itself. It's easy to focus on keeping your laptop topped up and overlook that your backup may be running low too. Plug in the powerbank overnight at your hotel or while you’re stopped at a layover. It’ll be ready when you need it next.
Stay Connected Without the Panic
Travelling with a laptop doesn’t have to come with a side of battery stress. A bit of prep makes the day go smoother, and the right tech helps you stay ahead of delays, meetings, or long stretches without a powerpoint.
Planning ahead means knowing how much charge you’ll need and which backup options work best for your trip. The best powerbanks for laptops are built to keep up with modern devices and don’t take up much room in your carry-on. With the right tools packed, your laptop stays ready from morning until lights-out.
At Chargeasap, we build charging gear that works for life on the move. Designed in Sydney, our products are made for travel days, workdays, and everything in between. You can see our full range of travel-ready laptop chargers and accessories at our website.
Heading out from Sydney or seeking peace of mind on long travel days, our reliable gear makes all the difference. We know how much it helps to have equipment built to handle high-demand devices without weighing you down. At Chargeasap, we put extra care into creating the kind of gear we trust on our own trips. You can find the best powerbanks for laptops built to go wherever your day takes you, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
