iPhone Charging Tips for Traveling Photographers

Ready for some iPhone charging tips?

Traveling is an exciting adventure, especially for those who love to capture every moment on our iPhones. However, maintaining your iPhone’s battery life is one of the main challenges you’ll face on your travels. Using it extensively for photography can quickly deplete the battery, leaving you stranded without a camera or even a phone!

But don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll explore several effective ways to keep your iPhone charged while you’re on the go. From standard cables to universal adapters and power banks, I’ve got you covered. Ready to ensure your iPhone never runs out of juice on your next adventure? Let’s get started.

Tip #1 – Standard Cable and Power Adapter

The most straightforward way to charge your iPhone is by using the standard cable and power adapter. This method is reliable and efficient, ensuring your device charges quickly. Here are some tips to make the most out of this charging method:

• Bring Your Own Adapter: Of course, this goes without saying… 😉 But here’s an additional iPhone charging tip: If you’ve forgotten it at home, there’s still hope. Ask someone at the front desk of your hotel if they have any. You’d be surprised how many people leave theirs when they check out. I asked at one hotel and watched the clerk open a drawer full of chargers! Then he asked me if any of them would work for my iPhone. Oh Yes!!!
• Utilize Available Outlets: Use electric outlets whenever you can. Waiting in the lounge? Choose a seat near an outlet. Also, many airplanes now have outlets, making it easier to keep your devices charged during long flights.

iPhone Charging Tip #2 – Universal Travel Adapter

A universal travel adapter is a must-have for traveling to another country. Different countries have different types of electrical outlets, and this device ensures your charger can be plugged into any socket. (They’re the white and black devices on the top right in the picture above.)

• Compatibility: A good universal adapter will support various plug types, so you can use it in multiple countries without needing separate adapters.
• Built-in USB Ports: Some universal adapters have built-in USB ports, allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously without carrying extra plugs.

Tip #3 – Power Bank

A power bank is an essential accessory for any travel photographer or, honestly, for anyone who uses their iPhone for photos, even at home. I always have a small one in my handbag. It allows you to charge your iPhone on the go, ensuring you never miss capturing that perfect shot. Here are some things to consider when choosing a power bank:

• Capacity: Opt for a power bank with a high capacity (measured in mAh) to ensure it can recharge your iPhone multiple times. A 10,000mAh power bank is a great starting point.
• Portability: Choose a power bank that is light and compact enough to fit in your handbag or pocket. This makes it easier to carry around during your adventures without adding too much weight to your gear.
• Compatibility: Ensure the power bank is compatible with your iPhone and can deliver the necessary power output for efficient charging. Some of them work with MagSafe iPhones, too! Here’s a photo of one of them on my iPhone. You can see how much the sizes vary!

Tip #4 – 12-Volt Charger for Vehicles

If your travels include road trips or safaris, a 12-volt charger with cables for use in cars and safari trucks is invaluable. This charger plugs into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket, providing a convenient power source while you’re on the move. You can see mine in the photo at the top. It has the cables attached.

• Versatility: These chargers often come with multiple USB ports, allowing you to charge several devices at once. Extra iPhone charging tip: Don’t limit this to travel. We have one of these in each of our cars. I also have USB-C and Lightning cables in the car! It allowed me to charge my iPhone as we were headed to the Surry Seafood Company for lunch so I could quickly capture this shot of an osprey family as our ferry pulled into the dock.
• Convenience: Keeping your iPhone charged during long drives ensures you can keep taking photos, using GPS, and staying connected without worrying about battery life.
• You’ll win the popularity contest in the safari truck: Your 12-volt charger will be in high demand! 😎

When this leopard cub walked between our safari trucks in Samburu National Park in Kenya, I had two cameras with different lenses. But they both were too long to capture the moment. Thank goodness for my trusty iPhone!

iPhone Charging Tip #5 – USB Data Blocker

Public charging stations at airports, hotels, or cafes can be a lifesaver when your battery runs low. However, they also pose a security risk known as “juice jacking,” where hackers can access your device through the USB port. To protect your data, use a USB data blocker. (You’ll see it in the top photo; it’s red.)

• Security: A USB data blocker allows charging without allowing data transfer, keeping your information safe from potential hackers.
• Peace of Mind: With this small device, you can confidently use public charging stations without worrying about compromising your personal information. For more details on avoiding juice jacking, check out this link.

Any Extra Tips?

Throughout my travels, I’ve learned a few more iPhone charging tricks.

Believe me, you’ll want a charged iPhone when an elephant decides to visit lunch. When I took this photo, I was still sitting at my table, next to the one in the picture. My delicious ice cream dessert had just arrived. As I was about to take a bite, I noticed the people at the next table suddenly leaving. I glanced up and saw the elephant.

I got the shot and quickly exited. I just wish I’d brought the dessert with me. The elephant had a lot of fun destroying it. 😳

Here are some personal tips:

• Charge Whenever Possible: Don’t wait until your battery is critically low. Top up your charge whenever you find an outlet, whether you’re grabbing a coffee or wine or waiting for a flight.
• Airplane Outlets: Many modern airplanes have power outlets or USB ports. Use these to charge your devices during long-haul flights. And grab the outlet quickly! I recently traveled east from California in the dreaded middle seat. The two lucky people sitting on either side of me were better prepared and nabbed the outlets as they sat down!
• Battery-Saving Mode: Use your iPhone’s battery-saving mode to extend battery life when exploring and away from a charging source.
• Turn Off Unnecessary Features: To conserve battery life, you can also disable features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and location services when not in use. A quick trick is to put your iPhone in Airplane Mode. Just remember that you’ll miss any calls coming in.

Now it’s your turn:

Keeping your iPhone charged during your travels doesn’t have to be daunting. Incorporating these charging methods and devices into your travel routine ensures your device remains powered up and ready to capture every breathtaking moment.

You have multiple options to suit different travel scenarios, from using the standard cable and power adapter to investing in a universal travel adapter, power bank, or 12-volt charger. Remember to protect your data with a USB data blocker when using public charging stations.

Following these iPhone charging tips, you can focus on what you love most—capturing stunning photos and exploring new destinations—without worrying about a dying battery. Enjoy your travels, and don’t forget to share your favorite photos!

You can read more about traveling with your iPhone in this post I wrote.

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram for more tips, tricks and adventures!