SAVE on Smarter, Safer Power
Whether you’re trying to save money on campsites, chasing stunning views, or looking for a camping spot with a little more privacy, RV boondocking is a great way to enjoy many of the comforts of a campground without the crowds or annoying fees. Depending on where you want to travel, how long you want to stay, and which of your appliances and electronics you wish to use will determine exactly what you need to boondock successfully. Regardless of your camping style, having a robust off-grid power system will give you the flexibility and peace of mind to camp anywhere!
While many established campgrounds offer full water, electrical, and sewer hookups in addition to other amenities, they come at the cost of sacrificing some privacy. As the popularity of RV camping continues to increase, campgrounds are fully booked throughout much of the spring, summer, and fall. This means camping just feet from your neighbors, dealing with more noise during “quiet hours,” and potentially obstructed views.
Although some RVers are happy to persevere through these minor inconveniences in exchange for the luxury of hookups, many RVers are choosing to boondock instead. “Boondocking is a style of camping that typically involves camping in an RV on public-use lands. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the United States Forest Service (USFS) maintain thousands of campsites.”
Choosing to boondock, even just occasionally, exponentially increases the areas available for camping. Without the need for reservations or booking a site ahead, it also creates more flexibility while on the road. Boondocking allows campers to choose a spot far from neighbors and with jaw-dropping views that will enable them to be immersed in nature.
In the past, the main limitation of boondocking was the necessity to have entirely self-sufficient water, power, and waste disposal. If campers wanted to continue using the appliances and amenities within their RVs, they could only boondock for a night or two before running out of resources. With recent technological advances, campers can boondock for extended periods without worrying about depleting resources. In our opinion, boondocking off-grid is the best form of camping.
Whether you’re new to boondocking or looking to upgrade your existing setup, we have five tips and tricks to successfully boondock without sacrificing your favorite comforts of home.
Choose the Right Rig
Depending on where, when, and how you plan on boondocking, different types of RVs may better suit your traveling style. Ensuring your rig has the proper capabilities to keep you safe and comfortable is the key to a successful RV boondocking trip.
For those looking to head way off the beaten path or take on extreme weather conditions, your rig must have the proper tires, suspension, and other upgrades to prevent you from ending up in a sticky situation. Off-road capable RVs are generally a little smaller and tend to prioritize functionality over luxury. Still, they’re the perfect fit for those seeking to get the most out of the quiet, beautiful, wide-open public spaces.
On the other hand, some RVers want to enjoy the freedom of boondocking without sacrificing any of the luxuries. While these individuals won’t wander as far off the road, they can still enjoy breathtaking views with larger rigs, more appliances, and added comfort. Additionally, plan to stay off-grid for more extended periods. A larger RV may be more beneficial as you can extend your trip with a larger water tank, increased electrical system capacity, and more wastewater storage.
No matter how large or small you think your resource supply is, it’s crucial to learn the limits of your resources. We recommend taking a short trip first and then working towards longer trips and more time off the grid. Shorter trips enable you to familiarize yourself with the necessary techniques and acclimatize to the experience. As comfort and confidence increase, longer boondocking trips become more feasible and enjoyable. Apps like iOverlander are great resources for finding boondocking spots throughout the United States.
Once you’ve learned the limits of resources, keeping an eye on your levels while spending extensive time off-grid is still essential. Practice conservation whenever possible and plan to return home or fill up on resources before you deplete them to prevent a potentially dangerous situation. Little things like turning off the water while washing dishes or unplugging electronics that aren’t currently used go a long way in stretching your resources.
It may seem like a no-brainer for those with solar panels keeping their batteries recharged, but more sun exposure will equal more time you can spend off-grid. If you’re a snowbird seeking warmer weather, you’re probably already chasing the sun. On the other hand, for those venturing out into colder climates or heavily shaded areas, we recommend choosing a parking spot with the most sun exposure. This will ensure your batteries have access to the most amount of charge available and expand the limits of your electrical system.
Remember to be spontaneous as you become more comfortable with your rig and setup! Drive the dirt road longer and spend time in more remote places. You won’t regret the adventure.
Boondocking is a great way to explore the outdoors and disconnect from everyday life. But before you hit the road, you must ask yourself some key questions to ensure you have the best boondocking experience possible.
Whether you realize it or not, where you plan to travel will impact how you should configure and design your electrical system. The weather you encounter during your travels can make certain electronics more necessary than others and influence the type of batteries or solar panels you choose. While those camping in warmer weather or exclusively in the summer may want enough power for an air conditioner, those heading to cooler climates will want to ensure their batteries are adequately equipped to handle extreme temperatures.
Additionally, it’s essential to consider the levels of sun exposure in the areas you plan to travel to. Near-constant sun exposure in desert regions like the Baja peninsula and Arizona means your batteries will be continuously recharged during the day. This means that you may be able to get away with smaller battery capacity or fewer solar panels and still have plenty of power. On the other hand, if you plan to travel through the winter to heavily shaded forested regions or places with regular overcast days, you’ll want to ensure your electrical system is robust enough to handle more extended periods without sun.
Another factor that will impact how you design your electrical system is how long you plan to be off-grid. Are you a weekend warrior, or do you plan to be gone for weeks? A smaller electrical system may suffice for two to three-day trips as you’re less likely to encounter extended periods without sun. Those planning to go on longer trips or live full-time in their RV should have a more robust electrical system. The longer you’re on the road and off-grid, the more scenarios you’ll want to be prepared for, including having a large enough electrical system that you don’t have to worry about being stranded without power.
Finally, arguably, one of the most important questions to consider when designing your boondocking electrical system is what electronics and appliances you will need to power. Large kitchen appliances and air conditioners draw far more power than simply recharging your mobile devices and utilizing the lights.
In addition to determining what you plan to power, it’s essential to estimate how long you plan to use each appliance or electronic each day and if there are other ways to power it. While your refrigerator requires power all day long, it may be capable of also being powered by propane if your battery percentage dips below a certain point. Depending on where you plan on traveling, some RVers want to run their air conditioner all night, whereas others only need to run it for an hour or two a day.
Another critical factor in determining what you want to power is what you plan to do while off the grid. Where are all the digital nomads? If you need a strong internet connection to work off the grid, have a robust system to keep your signal from dropping during essential calls or meetings.
Depending on your style of boondocking, various power loads require different-sized electrical systems. Whether you want to live in your RV just like you would in a stationary home or keep things minimalistic, there is a power system that will fit your needs. With these things in mind, let’s dive into how to create the perfect RV boondocking power system.
Conducting an audit will help you identify how much power you’ll need and where you can save energy to extend your time off the grid.
One key consideration when conducting an electrical audit for boondocking is determining the size of your electrical system. Knowing whether you have a 30 or 50-amp service will verify the maximum power your electrical system can handle. This information will allow you to accurately determine what appliances and devices you can use while off-grid.
Based on your findings, prioritize what you need to power based on your available power supply. Another critical aspect of an electrical audit is identifying where to save energy. While doing this, consider replacing inefficient appliances with energy-efficient models, using LED lights instead of incandescent bulbs, and minimizing unnecessary power usage.
Doing so will extend the life of your battery’s stored energy and prevent your electrical system from being drained too quickly. Overall, you can make the most of your time off the grid by identifying your electrical needs, determining your maximum power supply, and identifying ways to save energy.
Two methods are typically used to conduct an energy audit. The first involves manually calculating the energy usage of each appliance you plan to use and adding all your calculations together. The second method uses a battery monitor to keep track of the average power consumption throughout the day. While the latter method is more straightforward, both will help you determine precisely how much electrical power your RV will require.
Once you’ve conducted an energy audit, the next step is to inventory your rig’s electrical system. Lead-acid batteries have traditionally been used to power off-grid systems, and many RVs still come standard with them due to their affordability. However, lead-acid batteries are heavy, have short lifespans, and require regular maintenance to ensure they work properly.
Upgrading to lithium batteries can be a game-changer when boondocking. Lithium batteries are 1/5 the weight, 2-3x more powerful, and last 10x longer than their lead-acid counterparts. Additionally, they require little to no maintenance, offer a 100% depth of discharge, and are safe enough to be mounted anywhere in your RV.
When sizing a power system, it is imperative to calculate your daily power usage. This includes taking the power draws for each appliance and electronics you determined during your energy audit and calculating how long you plan to use them daily. While this can include some complicated calculations, the Battle Born Battery Calculator allows you to plug in these values and get a recommended amp-hour capacity based on your system’s specific needs.
Inverter chargers have dual functions. First, they take power from your solar panels, generator, or shore power to charge your batteries. Then, they convert the DC (direct current) power from the batteries to AC (alternating current) power that household appliances require. While batteries and solar panels are core pieces of your electrical system, an inverter charger is necessary to ensure you have the proper power for various electronics and appliances.
A converter is distinct from an inverter as it converts AC voltage to DC voltage. Electrical components in an RV usually run on DC power, and household appliances run on AC power. A converter charger enables charging from an AC power source like shore power or a generator and distributes the DC power to the onboard electrical components.
A BIM is only essential for alternator charging in 12V systems. We recommend using a BIM if your system has three or more batteries. The BIM is designed to provide a maximum current of 225 amps from the alternator to the batteries during the charge cycle.
A battery guardian is reserved for 12V power systems. They allow you to remotely disconnect the vehicle from the battery by sensing the voltages of the coach or auxiliary batteries.
Solar panels are essential for using renewable energy resources and extending your boondocking trips. They utilize photovoltaic cells to capture energy from the sun and push that energy into your electrical system to recharge your batteries. By using more solar panels, many RVers can eliminate their need for a generator, leading to quieter and more peaceful boondocking trips.
Solar charge controllers regulate the transfer of power from your solar array to your battery bank, acting as a current or voltage controller. They ensure that the power from the solar array is adequately directed towards charging the battery bank and act as a one-way gate to prevent reverse power flow that could otherwise drain the batteries. The two main types of solar charge controllers are Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and Pulse Width Modulation (PWM).]
Battery monitors are helpful tools for monitoring your battery system. They provide valuable information, allowing you to remotely access data on your remaining power and total amp-hours consumed.
DC to DC chargers are convenient for charging lithium-ion batteries via your vehicle’s alternator and starting battery. They provide a swift and intelligent charge and isolate the chassis and coach batteries when not operating.
Boondocking in cold weather requires additional planning and preparation to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. Proper insulation is critical to keeping your RV or camper warm, especially when temperatures drop significantly at night. This includes adding extra insulation to the walls and floors and insulating exposed pipes or tanks. Insulation helps prevent heat loss and warm your living space, which is essential for a comfortable boondocking experience.
A reliable heating system is another essential component of a cold-weather boondocking setup. A portable electric heater or wood-burning stove can warm your living space. Solo stoves are great options outside of the rig. Who doesn’t love sitting around a campfire, roasting marshmallows, and watching the snow fall?
** Pro-tip! Make sure your heating system is working correctly before hitting the road. A backup heating system is also a good idea in case of a malfunction or unexpected fuel shortage.
Investing in warm bedding is crucial for a good night’s sleep in cold weather. Consider a down comforter or a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures. Using thermal curtains or blankets to block out any drafts can help keep your living space warm and cozy. If you are boondocking in an area that receives snowfall, having snow removal equipment, something as simple as a shovel, is crucial. This will help prevent accidents and make it easier to access your living space.
It is a common misconception that lithium batteries do not work well in cold weather. LiFePO4 batteries excel in extreme conditions, with discharge rates in different temperatures far exceeding that of lead-acid batteries.
Battle Born Batteries can discharge in temperatures ranging from -4°F to135°F. However, attempting to charge your batteries when their internal temperature is below 25°F will cause the built-in battery management system to shut off the battery. This prevents potentially irreversible damage to your battery.
Built-in heaters equip our heated LiFePO4 batteries, ensuring the battery stays at optimal charging temperatures, even in extremely cold weather conditions. Boondock mission to the Arctic, anyone? Maybe not, but hey, with heated LiFePO4 Batteries, you have the option.
Heated lithium batteries ensure a reliable power source that can withstand chilly conditions, making it easier to enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about your batteries shutting down.
When installing a battery system and solar setup, you can do it yourself (DIY) or hire a professional installer. While DIY installation can be more cost-effective, it requires tools, technical knowledge, and expertise.
Fortunately, we offer resources and support for DIY installation. The Battle Born Batteries website provides helpful information on sizing a battery system and selecting components. In addition, we have an in-house technical support team for customers. You can call and speak with specialists offering advice and assistance with configuring and assembling your system.
For those who prefer to hire a professional, we have a list of certified installers in areas across the United States. This list includes vetted installers with experience installing lithium-ion battery systems and solar setups. Additionally, a verified installer can give you peace of mind, knowing that they have completed the installation correctly and professionally.
Whether you choose to go the DIY route or hire an installer, utilizing the support and resources available to you can be invaluable. With their experience and assistance, homeowners can feel confident in their system and enjoy the benefits of boondocking in the long term.
We know that building or upgrading an electrical system can be overwhelming, so we’re here to help. Our Reno, Nevada-based sales and customer service team is standing by at (855) 292-2831 to answer your questions!
Also, join us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to learn more about how lithium battery systems can power your lifestyle, see how others have built their systems, and gain the confidence to get out there and stay out there.
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