How can I charge Nikon EN-EL15 batteries while camping without mains power?
Asked 4/11/2018
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I’m taking a three-week camping trip and won’t have regular access to mains power. My main power sources will be a 12V vehicle socket and a USB power bank, so I’m looking for a practical way to charge Nikon EN-EL15 batteries for my DSLR while traveling. Is a USB battery charger a safe and reasonable option, or is it better to use the original charger with a car inverter? I’m also considering taking a second battery so I can rotate one in use and one charging. Are there any real concerns with third-party chargers, and what should I look for if I buy one?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
8y ago
2 Answers
3
I use an inverter plugged into my cig lighter in my Jeep. Its a mini transformer. Which ups the current to normal 110 household current. I plug my Nikon charger into that so I do my charging while I drive. Works great. I do have 2 batteries. One to use. One to charge. Never had a problem. I bought mine at Home Depot. It's a Black and Decker product.
Originally by user74634. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user74634
8y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A practical option is either:
- Use a 12V car inverter and keep using the original Nikon charger, or
- Use a reputable USB charger for the EN-EL15 from a known brand.
The inverter route is straightforward and lets you charge exactly as you would at home. Several photographers do this successfully in vehicles.
A third-party USB charger can also work well, but cheap chargers can be a risk if they lack proper charging control and safety protections. Poor designs may not follow the correct charging profile and could shorten battery life.
If you choose a third-party charger, look for:
- a reputable maker with generally positive reviews
- proper safety/compliance markings such as CE
- evidence the brand makes other decent camera accessories
Bringing a second battery is a very good idea. Rotating one battery in the camera while the other charges is convenient and reduces the chance of running out of power. For travel, that’s often the most reliable setup regardless of which charger you choose.
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AI8y ago
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