If you’ve ever sat through a power outage watching your phone battery tick down — or worse, found yourself off the grid with no way to call for help — then you already know how clutch a backup power source can be. Unlike bulky generators or battery packs that need to be charged in advance, we found a smart little device that runs on something you’ll always have: your own energy. A few quick cranks is all it takes to light a space, tune into emergency radio or juice up your phone just enough to make that all-important call.

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That’s exactly why people are obsessed with the Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern by Joyeky. It’s a compact yet powerful light source that’s built to handle whatever curveballs life (or Mother Nature) throws your way.

This compact $23 hand-crank power generator features a built-in flashlight, USB charging port and solar panel, making it a must-have for blackouts, camping trips, or anytime you’re off the grid.

No outlet? No problem. This gadget is perfect for blackouts, road trips and apocalypse prep.

With over 1,000 lumens of brightness, a built-in rechargeable battery, and a hand-crank power option for when outlets are MIA, this lantern is basically the MVP of emergency gear. It’s one of those “why didn’t I get this sooner?” products that’s easy to stash in your car, backpack or emergency kit and forget about until you really need it.

Here’s the deal: The lantern comes equipped with a 6400mAh rechargeable battery that runs for hours — perfect for blackouts, camping trips or nights when your phone’s at 2% and there’s no outlet in sight. You can charge it via USB-C (yes, the same charger your phone probably uses), and if that’s not an option? Just turn the crank. It literally generates its own electricity. That’s the kind of energy we’re bringing into 2025.

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Even better, the lantern doubles as a power bank. So when your phone’s gasping for battery mid-storm, just plug it in and keep texting the group chat your storm updates. Reviewers on Amazon say it’s a lifesaver, from lighting up tents to being just the right kind of cozy bedside glow when the power’s out. It’s bright, but not retina-searing. You can choose between four light modes to choose the dimness you want.

Unlike those clunky lanterns that are a pain to pack, this one is lightweight, portable, and surprisingly sleek. It’s got a sturdy base that can sit on any surface and a built-in handle for easy hanging. Bonus: There’s a red night vision mode that reduces glare — perfect if you’re in a tent or trying not to wake your sleeping partner.

This tiny investment could be a lifesaver.

Sure, there are plenty of lanterns out there, but this one checks all the boxes: powerful, rechargeable, crank-ready and doubles as a phone charger. At under $25, it’s the kind of smart, practical buy you’ll be so thankful for the next time the lights flicker out (because, let’s be honest, they always do).

So if upgrading your emergency setup has been on the to-do list, or you just want to be the person who’s always prepared, this lantern is the way to go. Even if it lives in your junk drawer most of the year, you’ll be glad it’s there when you need it.

Get it from Amazon for $22.38.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.