America 250: Powering the Great American Road Trip Since 1988
- by Joe Weber - updated on 5/14/2026
Key Takeaways / TL;DR
- Decades of Expertise: Batteries Plus has been a staple for American travelers since our first store opened in Green Bay in 1988.
- Road-Ready Services: We offer free car battery testing and professional installation to prevent breakdowns before they happen.
- Tech Support on the Go: Our nationwide smartphone and tablet repair services keep your GPS and cameras functional.
- Camping Essentials: From high-lumen flashlights to portable X2Power stations, we provide the gear needed for off-grid adventures.
- Local Trust, National Reach: With stores across the country, we are your local "Expert in Charge" for any road trip emergency.
As we look toward the 250th anniversary of the United States , there is perhaps no greater symbol of American freedom and discovery than the "Great American Road Trip." Whether it's traversing the historic Route 66, exploring the rugged beauty of our National Parks, or simply heading to a favorite lakeside campsite, hitting the open road is a tradition woven into the framework of our nation.
At Batteries Plus, we've been proud to fuel those journeys for nearly four decades. As we celebrate America's milestone, we're also celebrating our own history of helping you explore every mile of this beautiful country.
A Legacy of Reliability Since the '80s
Our story began in 1988 with a single store located in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Back then, the world looked a little different—road trips were navigated with paper maps, and car batteries were often a "find it yourself" hassle. Our goal from day one was simple: to serve our neighbors' needs with a combination of quality products and superior technical knowledge.
As America grew and technology evolved, so did we. We've spent the last 37 years expanding our expertise so that no matter where your journey takes you, you're never alone.
Your Road Trip Pit Stop: Power It, Light It, Fix It
A successful road trip requires more than just a full tank of gas; it requires a vehicle and gear you can trust. Here is how Batteries Plus ensures your adventure stays on track:
1. Reliable Car & Truck Batteries
There is nothing quite like the sinking feeling of a car that won't start in a remote campsite. Since the 80s, we've been the "Experts in Charge" of vehicle power. Today, we offer free car battery testing and professional installation at most locations. With premium brands like X2Power, we provide the cranking power and deep-cycle reliability needed for even the longest cross-country treks.
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2. Smartphone & Tablet Repairs
In 1988, we weren't worrying about cracked phone screens. Today, your smartphone is your GPS, your camera, and your lifeline. In 2014, we launched nationwide repair services to ensure a shattered screen or a dying battery doesn't stop you from capturing memories or finding your way. Our WISE-certified technicians use genuine parts to get you back on the road fast.
3. Flashlights and Lighting
Whether you're setting up camp after sunset or checking under the hood in the dark, reliable lighting is a safety essential. Since we introduced specialized lighting in 2010, we've curated a selection of tactical flashlights, rechargeable lanterns, and headlamps designed to withstand the rigors of the outdoors.
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4. Camping & Portable Power
Modern camping often involves more than just a tent. From powering portable coolers to charging drones and laptops, our selection of power stations and generators ensures you can enjoy the "great outdoors" without losing the comforts of home.
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Celebrating 250 Years of Adventure
America 250 is a time to reflect on the spirit of innovation and the drive to explore that defines this country. At Batteries Plus, we are honored to have played a small part in millions of American stories since 1988.
Before you head out on your next adventure, stop by your local Batteries Plus. Whether you need a battery test, a key fob programmed, or a new set of flashlights, our experts are here to make sure your American road trip is powered for success.
Here's to the next 250 years of exploration!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I get my car battery tested before a long road trip?
A: Absolutely! We offer free car and truck battery testing at most of our locations. It's a quick and easy way to ensure your battery is healthy before you hit the road.
Q: Do you offer phone screen repairs while I'm traveling?
A: Yes. We have hundreds of locations nationwide. Our WISE-certified technicians can often perform screen repairs and battery replacements in about an hour, making it a perfect pit stop during your trip.
Q: What kind of portable power do you recommend for camping?
A: It depends on your needs! For charging phones and laptops, a portable power bank is great. For running small appliances or CPAP machines, we recommend an X2Power portable power station or a Champion inverter generator.
Q: Can you replace key fobs if mine stops working on the road?
A: Yes, we provide key fob battery replacement and programming services for most vehicle makes and models, often at a significantly lower cost than a dealership.
Q: Does Batteries Plus sell camping-specific lighting?
A: We carry a wide variety of lighting solutions perfect for the outdoors, including rechargeable LED lanterns, headlamps for hands-free tasks, and high-lumen tactical flashlights.