Month: February 2025

Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services.  If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

When storms rage and the power grid goes down, you don’t want to be stranded without any way to communicate. That’s why portable power stations have become so popular—they give you a way to keep critical devices running when you need them, and they’re a godsend when camping, too. There are tons of options to choose from, including a discounted brand-new model from Anker or this hefty 1,800-watt unit on sale for over half off. But how about a bundle with a portable solar panel to charge off-grid? One of Amazon’s best is over 40% off right now.

The EcoFlow River 3 Solar Generator is on sale for $199, a 41% discount from its normal price of $338. This power station and solar panel kit is a favorite among Amazon shoppers—nearly 1,000 were sold in the last month alone and it’s currently the site’s No. 3 bestselling model. With its lightweight build, it’s a solid choice for car camping or as an emergency backup to charge your phone and other devices during a power outage.

EcoFlow River 3 Solar Generator, $199 (was $338) on Amazon

The EcoFlow River 3 features six outlets, including USB ports and dual AC plugs, to power a wide range of devices. It’s rated for AC output up to 300 watts, and its X-Boost technology allows the unit to pump out up to 600 watts of power when necessary (helpful for running heating devices, for example). When plugged into a wall outlet, the River 3 can fully charge in just an hour. But thanks to the 45-watt solar panel, you can also charge off the grid: The panel’s impressive 25 percent conversion efficiency allows it to charge the River 3 in a little over 6 hours. X-Guard battery safeguards like overheat protection help prevent mishaps and protect the health of the River 3’s battery. Finally, both the power station and solar panel array are optimized for travel: The River 3 weighs just 7.8 pounds, and the panel weighs a paltry 3.1 pounds.

Shoppers have been amazed with the River 3’s performance. One called it “awesome” and “good for travel” thanks to its lightweight build. Another called it “compact, light, powerful.”

“For such a small battery, it packs a punch,” said a third reviewer, “and with solar power, I can rely on renewable energy year-round.” 

Related: Dick’s Is Selling Merrell’s $120 Hiking Boots for Only $60 Right Now, and Shoppers Say They’re ‘Fantastic’

One shopper found the River 3 super helpful in lots of unexpected ways: “You can plug and use tools anywhere, run or charge devices, take to the beach for power.”

With its lightweight design and portability, the EcoFlow River 3 offers amazing versatility—it can easily pull double duty as a campsite power station and an emergency backup when you’re home. Add in the solar panel, and you’ve got a real backcountry-friendly power setup, all for under $200. Deals like this don’t come around often, so act fast and grab yours before this discount disappears.