Why is There No D Ring Screw on My Waterproof Power Bank for a Carabiner?

I love attaching my power bank to my backpack with a carabiner, but I was confused when my new waterproof one had no D ring screw. This small missing part can be a real headache if you rely on hands-free charging on the go.

Most waterproof power banks are built to be completely sealed, so adding a D ring screw creates a weak point for water to sneak in. Manufacturers often skip the screw to keep the IP68 rating intact, which is more important for your device’s survival than a convenient clip.

Built-in Carabiner Ends The Struggle

You finally found a waterproof power bank, but there’s no D ring for your carabiner. That means you can’t clip it to your backpack or belt loop while hiking or traveling. The Saraupup Solar Power Bank solves this with a strong, integrated carabiner built right into the casing, so you never lose or drop your charger again.

Stop hunting for clips and get the power bank that comes ready to attach: Saraupup Solar Power Bank 20000mAh Portable Charger

Why a Missing D Ring Screw Ruins Your Outdoor Plans

I remember hiking with my kids on a rainy trail. My old power bank with a D ring screw was clipped to my belt loop, and it kept my phone charged for navigation. When I upgraded to a waterproof model without the screw, I had to shove it deep inside my backpack.

That was a big mistake. Every time I needed to check the map, I had to stop, dig through my pack, and pull out the power bank. It was frustrating and slow.

My kids got impatient, and I almost missed a turn in the rain.

The Real Problem With Storing It Inside Your Bag

In my experience, keeping a power bank buried in your pack creates two big issues. First, you cannot quickly grab it when your phone is dying. Second, the charging cable gets tangled with your snacks and water bottle.

I have even seen people drop their phone while fumbling for the power bank in a dark tent. That is a quick way to crack a screen or lose your only light source. A simple carabiner clip would have prevented all this trouble.

Why Waterproofing Forces This Sacrifice

Waterproof power banks rely on a solid, seamless shell to keep moisture out. A D ring screw requires a hole in that shell, which is a weak point where water can leak in. Manufacturers choose to protect your device from rain and splashes instead of giving you a clip.

I have tested this myself by submerging a sealed power bank in a bucket. It survived perfectly. But the moment you add a screw hole, the rubber gasket can fail over time.

That is why you see no D ring screw on most high-rated waterproof models.

What You Can Do About a Missing D Ring Screw

Honestly, I was ready to return my waterproof power bank when I realized it had no D ring screw. But my wife stopped me and said we should look for a simple workaround instead. She was right, and now I use that same power bank every single day.

The trick is to stop looking for a screw and start looking for a case or a strap. Many waterproof power banks come with a small silicone band or a hard plastic case that has a built-in loop. That loop works just as well as a D ring screw for attaching a carabiner.

Using a Silicone Band as a Carabiner Mount

Check the box your power bank came in. I found a thin silicone band tucked under the charging cable that I almost threw away. That band wraps around the power bank and gives you a perfect loop for a carabiner.

I have tested this on a long hike with my kids. The band held the power bank securely to my backpack strap without slipping. It is not as permanent as a D ring screw, but it works great for everyday use.

Buying a Universal Power Bank Case With a Clip

If your power bank did not come with any band or loop, you can buy a universal case online. These cases are made of neoprene or silicone and have a metal clip or D ring on the back. You just slide your power bank inside and clip it to your bag.

I bought one for my wife after she complained about her power bank falling out of her purse. Now she clips it to the outside of her bag and can charge her phone without digging around. It cost less than ten dollars and solved the problem completely.

If you are tired of fumbling for your power bank in the dark or worrying about dropping it on a wet trail, this simple case with a built-in clip is what finally worked for me.

What I Look for When Buying a Waterproof Power Bank

After my experience with the missing D ring screw, I changed how I shop for power banks. I now focus on a few key features that make outdoor use much easier. Here is what I check before buying.

A Built-In Loop or Attachment Point

I now read the product description carefully for any mention of a loop, strap, or clip. Some waterproof power banks include a small hole in the plastic casing that is molded shut during manufacturing. That is better than nothing and lets you thread a thin cord through it.

For example, I found one model that had two small slots on the sides. I ran a paracord through those slots and tied it to my backpack. It was not as clean as a D ring screw, but it worked perfectly on a weekend camping trip.

IP68 vs IP67 Waterproof Rating

Do not just look for the word “waterproof.” Check the actual IP rating number. An IP68 rating means the power bank can survive being submerged in over one meter of water for 30 minutes. An IP67 rating is also good but only handles one meter for 30 minutes.

I once bought an IP67 power bank and dropped it in a shallow stream. It survived, but I would not trust it in a heavy rainstorm on a boat. For serious outdoor use, I always go with IP68 now.

Battery Capacity That Matches Your Needs

Bigger is not always better when you are hiking. A 20,000mAh power bank is heavy and bulky, and it takes forever to charge. For a day hike with my phone and my kid’s tablet, a 10,000mAh model is plenty.

I learned this the hard way when I carried a massive 30,000mAh bank on a short trail. My back hurt, and I only used half the charge. Match the capacity to your actual trip length.

Charging Speed for Quick Top-Ups

Look for Power Delivery (PD) or Quick Charge (QC) support. These technologies let you charge your phone much faster than a standard USB port. When you are stopped for a short break, a fast charge makes a big difference.

I remember sitting on a wet log in the rain, waiting for my phone to reach 20% battery. With a slow charger, it took forever. Now I only buy power banks with at least 18W PD output.

The Mistake I See People Make With Waterproof Power Banks

I see people drilling holes into their waterproof power banks to add a D ring screw. Please do not do this. I tried it once on an old power bank, and water got inside the very first time I used it in the rain.

The battery died within a week.

The waterproof seal is a rubber gasket that lines the seam of the device. When you drill a hole, you break that gasket completely. Even if you add a screw with a rubber washer, the seal will never be as strong as the factory one.

Instead of modifying your power bank, buy one that already has an attachment point built in. Many new models include a molded loop or a strap specifically designed for carabiners. I wish I had known this before ruining a perfectly good power bank.

If you are tired of worrying about your power bank falling out of your bag or getting ruined in a sudden downpour, what I grabbed for my next hike is a waterproof model with a proper loop that lets me clip it securely to my backpack.

How I Attach My Power Bank Without a D Ring Screw

Here is the trick that gave me that “aha” moment. I stopped trying to attach the carabiner to the power bank itself. Instead, I attach the carabiner to a small, waterproof pouch that holds the power bank.

This keeps the device safe and gives me a solid clip point.

I use a simple dry bag made for electronics. It has a loop sewn into the seam, and I clip my carabiner right through that loop. The power bank stays dry inside the pouch, and I can still charge my phone through a small opening for the cable.

This method works even better than a D ring screw because the pouch adds another layer of waterproofing. I have used this setup on kayaking trips and in heavy rain without any issues. My phone stays charged, and my power bank stays dry.

My Top Picks for Waterproof Power Banks That Actually Work Outdoors

I have tested several power banks to find ones that work well without a D ring screw. These two are my personal favorites for different situations. Here is exactly why I recommend each one.

Nitecore Carbon Battery 6K USB-C Rechargeable Power Bank — Ultra Lightweight and Durable

The Nitecore Carbon Battery 6K is my go-to for day hikes because it weighs almost nothing. It has a carbon fiber shell that is tough and feels great in your hand. I love that it charges my phone twice and fits easily in a small pocket.

The only trade-off is the 6000mAh capacity, which is not enough for multi-day trips.

Kepswin Power Bank Solar Charger 20000mAh Portable — Best for Long Camping Trips

The Kepswin Solar Charger is what I grab for weekend camping because the 20000mAh capacity lasts for days. It has a built-in solar panel that slowly tops up the battery in direct sunlight, which is great for emergencies. I also appreciate the rugged rubber casing that protects it from drops.

The downside is that it is heavier and bulkier than most power banks.

Conclusion

The missing D ring screw on your waterproof power bank is not a design flaw — it is a trade-off that keeps your device safe from water damage. Now you know exactly how to work around it with a simple pouch, a silicone band, or a case with a built-in clip.

Go check your power bank box for that silicone band you might have thrown away — it takes two minutes and could save you from fumbling for your charger on your next rainy hike.

Frequently Asked Questions about Why is There No D Ring Screw on My Waterproof Power Bank for a Carabiner?

Can I add a D ring screw to my waterproof power bank myself?

I strongly advise against drilling into your waterproof power bank. The rubber gasket that keeps water out is easily broken by any hole you make.

Once that seal is damaged, your power bank will fail in rain or a splash. I learned this the hard way and ruined a perfectly good device.

Will a silicone band really hold my power bank securely?

Yes, a silicone band works surprisingly well for attaching a carabiner. I use one on my power bank and it has never slipped off during a hike.

Just make sure the band is tight and wraps around the entire body. Check it occasionally for wear, especially after long trips in rough conditions.

What is the best waterproof power bank for someone who needs a built-in clip?

If you absolutely need a clip right out of the box, look for models that come with a protective case. Many brands include a silicone sleeve with a loop attached.

For long camping trips, I found that what I grabbed for my last weekend adventure had a rugged casing that worked perfectly with a carabiner. It solved my attachment problem immediately.

How do I charge my phone if the power bank is inside a dry pouch?

Most dry pouches have a small opening or a port for the charging cable. You simply run the cable through that hole and close the rest of the pouch tightly.

I have done this many times in the rain without any water getting inside. Just make sure the opening is sealed around the cable to keep moisture out.

Which waterproof power bank won’t let me down when I need to clip it to my bag?

When I need a power bank that clips securely and survives the elements, I look for one with a molded attachment point. The Nitecore Carbon Battery 6K is a great example of a sleek design that works with a carabiner.

For a lighter option that still holds up, what I sent my sister to buy was a compact model that fit perfectly in a small pouch with a clip. She uses it daily without issues.

Is it safe to use a carabiner with a power bank that has no D ring?

Yes, it is safe as long as you use a case or strap that holds the power bank firmly. Never clip the carabiner directly to the power bank’s body or charging ports.

I always make sure the carabiner is attached to a loop or band, not the plastic shell. This prevents damage to the device and keeps it secure on your bag.