The Surprising Reason Your Outdoorsy Friend Swears By Gummy Bear Power Banks
▼ Summary
– The author is an ultralight backpacker who recently purchased a Haribo gummy bear power bank due to its extremely light weight of 9.9 ounces.
– Ultralight backpackers obsessively minimize pack weight, aiming for under 10 pounds, because every ounce matters during long hikes over difficult terrain.
– The ultralight movement has inspired specialized gear innovations and online communities where enthusiasts share weight-saving strategies through rituals like “shakedowns.”
– The gummy bear power bank outperforms heavier, more expensive alternatives like the Nitecore model, offering similar features at a lower cost and weight.
– Despite its whimsical appearance, this power bank is gaining popularity among serious backpackers for its practical advantages, though it requires an additional cable for charging.
For ultralight backpackers, every gram matters. Obsessing over gear weight isn’t just a hobby, it’s a necessity for those covering serious miles. That’s why a quirky Haribo-licensed gummy bear power bank has become an unexpected favorite among serious hikers. Weighing in at just under 10 ounces, this playful-looking device delivers serious performance without adding unnecessary bulk to a carefully curated pack.
The appeal lies in the numbers. At 20,000mAh, it matches the capacity of heavier, more expensive alternatives while shaving off precious ounces. For context, seasoned backpackers often aim for a base weight under 10 pounds. When you’re climbing mountains or covering long distances, even a few ounces lighter can feel like a game-changer. That’s why this whimsical accessory has gained traction in communities where gear is scrutinized down to the gram.
Ultralight culture has always embraced innovation, whether it’s swapping heavy boots for trail runners or using multipurpose gear like trekking pole tents. This mindset explains why a candy-themed power bank isn’t just a novelty, it’s a legit piece of equipment. Online forums dedicated to weight-saving strategies have enthusiastically adopted the Haribo bank, comparing it favorably to premium models like Nitecore’s carbon fiber version, which costs significantly more and weighs slightly heavier.
What really wins people over is the value. Priced around $23, it undercuts competitors while offering features like pass-through charging and fast-charging capabilities. The built-in USB-C cord, shaped like a gummy bear, adds to the charm, though users still need a separate cable for recharging the unit itself. Even with that minor inconvenience, it’s a small trade-off for such a capable and lightweight power source.
Word of mouth has spread beyond online reviews. Appalachian Trail hikers and long-distance backpackers have started swapping stories and photos, comparing weights and sharing real-world results. For a community that once popularized using bread bags as waterproofing, this fun, functional gadget fits right in. It proves that sometimes, the best gear isn’t what you’d expect, it’s what works.
(Source: The Verge)
