Power and Charging in a Campervan: How to Keep Your Devices Running On and Off-Grid
One of the (many) perks of travelling in a campervan is exploring off-grid. A night under the stars in a remote outpost with all the comforts of home? It doesn’t get much better than that. But, with great power comes great responsibility (pun intended)... So, understanding how to manage power in a camper is essential for keeping your devices charged and your trip running smoothly.
To help, this guide covers everything you need to know about campervan power management, from the different power sources—like mains power, house batteries, solar panels, and gas—to tips for charging your devices on and off the grid.
You’ll learn which appliances work on each power source, how to conserve energy during off-grid adventures, and answers to common power questions, such as using microwaves and finding powered campsites.
1. Understanding power in a rental campervan
A rental campervan comes equipped with several power systems to ensure all your essential devices and appliances run smoothly. The three primary power sources are:
This power comes from being plugged into the grid at a powered campsite and provides high-capacity electricity for running large appliances and charging multiple devices.
Key appliances like microwaves, air conditioning and TVs (if available in your campervan) rely on mains power.
Powers basic needs like lights, USB ports, and the water pump during off-grid stays and are supported by the house battery.
Fuels cooking appliances, water heating systems, and sometimes the fridge.
Did you know? These power systems operate independently from the engine battery, which is solely used to start your campervan. This means you can enjoy heating, cooking, and charging your devices without worrying about being stranded with a flat engine battery.
READ MORE: For more tips on getting started with your motorhome adventure, check out our motorhome basics for beginners guide.
2. Which devices run on which power sources?
Knowing which devices rely on specific power sources is key to managing your campervan charging devices efficiently. From mains power in a campervan to solar and gas systems, each source plays a role in keeping your camper fully functional. In this section, we’ll explore the appliances and devices that depend on mains power, the house battery, solar energy, and LPG or propane.
Devices that run on mains power
Some appliances in your campervan are designed to operate only when connected to mains power, aka. When you are plugged into power at a campsite or holiday park. These typically include:
These appliances require the 240-volt power provided by campsite connections and won’t function on the house battery. It’s worth noting that prolonged use of mains power in a campervan can also recharge the house battery, ensuring you’re prepared for off-grid adventures.
Devices powered by the house battery
The house battery is the heart of your campervan’s off-grid power system, designed for light usage over short periods. Devices and appliances supported by the house battery include:
It is important to note that while the house battery is perfect for covering basic needs, it has its limitations and requires recharging. We recommend plugging into mains power every second night to keep the battery topped up, especially if you plan to use it extensively.
Solar-powered devices and charging
For environmentally conscious travellers, campervan solar panels are a great supplement to off-grid power. Solar panels, available in select Apollo rental vehicles, recharge the house battery, extending its usage for USB ports and lighting. This system is ideal for adventurers who prefer remote camping spots, reducing reliance on campsite connections.
However, solar power has its limitations. Cloudy days or heavy usage of high-energy devices can deplete the house battery faster than it can recharge. For best results, combine solar charging with periodic mains power connections.
Appliances powered by LPG or propane
Your campervan’s LPG or propane system powers key appliances for cooking and heating, making it a cornerstone of off-grid functionality. Common uses include:
Gas bottles are stored safely in a separate locker and must be refilled periodically to maintain functionality. Regularly check the gas level before heading off-grid to avoid interruptions to your motorhome facilities.
3. Maintaining your campervan’s power supply
Okay, but what about campervan power management? Well, whether you’re relying on mains power at a campsite or using the house battery during off-grid stays, understanding how to maintain your power supply can keep your devices running and appliances operational. This section covers the importance of plugging into mains power in a campervan and tips for finding powered campsites to recharge your vehicle between off-grid adventures.
Why you should plug into mains power every second night
Plugging your campervan into mains power every second night is essential for recharging the house battery and powering high-energy appliances like the microwave and TV. These systems can drain your battery quickly if used extensively, so regularly connecting to mains power ensures you’re not left without essentials like lighting, USB charging, or a functioning water pump during off-grid stays.
Additionally, mains power allows you to enjoy the full range of your campervan’s motorhome facilities, such as reverse cycle air conditioning, heating, and charging multiple devices simultaneously. Planning to stay at powered sites every couple of nights keeps your camper ready for the next leg of your adventure.
How to find campsites with mains power
Finding campsites with mains power has never been easier. The thl Roadtrip app is a great tool for locating powered sites at campsites and caravan parks. It helps you search for nearby options, compare amenities, and book in advance, ensuring you’ll have a place to recharge your campervan and your devices.
READ MORE: For more tips on finding the perfect campsite, check out our ultimate guide to finding and booking caravan parks in Australia. It offers valuable insights into securing a spot at popular destinations while meeting all your self-contained vehicle needs.
4. Charging devices on and off-grid
Whether you’re connected to mains power or camping off the beaten path, charging your devices is vital for staying connected and making the most of your campervan experience. This section covers the best ways to charge laptops, phones, and other electronics using both mains power and the house battery, along with tips for efficient energy use.
Charging devices while plugged into mains power
When plugged into mains power, you can take full advantage of the power outlets in your campervan to quickly charge laptops, phones, and cameras. Staying at powered campsites provides reliable electricity, perfect for keeping connected during work trips or ensuring your devices are ready to capture memories on the road.
Mains power also supports energy-intensive tasks like charging multiple devices at once, running small appliances, or preparing meals with a microwave. Opting for powered sites at holiday parks or campsites ensures you’ll always have the energy you need.
Charging devices using the house battery
For off-grid adventures, the house battery is your go-to power source for charging smaller devices via USB ports. While it’s perfect for keeping phones or tablets running, conserving power is essential to avoid depleting the battery.
Campervan off-grid power tips include turning off unnecessary lights, unplugging devices when fully charged, and minimising the use of high-energy appliances when not connected to mains power. Keeping the house battery charged by plugging into mains every second night ensures you’re always prepared for off-grid stays.
5. Power conservation tips for off-grid adventures
Managing power during off-grid adventures can be a challenge, but with a few simple conservation tips, you can make the most of your campervan’s resources. Here are some practical ways to ensure your campervan power management stays on point:
With these simple tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy the freedom of off-grid travel without compromising on comfort or connectivity.
6. Common campervan power questions
Managing power in a campervan can raise many questions, especially for those new to the experience. From running essential appliances to finding powered campsites, understanding the ins and outs of campervan power management ensures you don’t get caught unawares. In this section, we’ll answer common FAQs about power systems in a self-contained vehicle, offering practical advice for every scenario.
FAQs
What happens if the house battery runs out?
If your house battery runs out, you can recharge it by plugging your camper into mains power at a campsite or starting the campervan engine. Plugging in is the quickest way to replenish the battery and is recommended every second night to avoid complete depletion. For off-grid situations, consider campervan solar panels to supplement your power needs, but remember that solar alone may not suffice for heavy use.
Can I use the microwave while off-grid?
No, the microwave requires mains power to operate and won’t function on the house battery. To use the microwave, plan to stay at a powered site or holiday park where you can connect to a 240-volt mains supply using the supplied power connection.
How do I know where to find mains power?
Finding powered campsites is easy with the thl Roadtrip app, which allows you to search for nearby powered sites at campsites and caravan parks. It’s a convenient tool for planning ahead, ensuring you always have access to electricity when needed.
Can I connect my motorhome to a domestic power supply to charge the leisure battery?
No, connecting your motorhome to a standard domestic power supply is unsafe and not recommended. Domestic outlets typically operate at 10-amps, while motorhomes require a 15-amp supply. Attempting to connect with a standard 10-amp extension cord can overload the socket, create a fire hazard, and damage your vehicle’s electrical system.
For safe connections, use a caravan power adaptor with a circuit breaker, which can be purchased at RV or camping stores. The power cord supplied with your campervan is a 15-amp cord designed for use only at powered campsites. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and efficient charging.
7. Power and charging made simple with Apollo campervans
Apollo makes campervan power management simple, offering modern features and support tools to ensure a smooth trip from pick up to drop off. With access to the thl Roadtrip app and expert recommendations, you’ll always have the resources you need to maintain power both on and off-grid.
Simplified maintenance with the thl Roadtrip app
The thl Roadtrip app is a must-have for Apollo travellers, providing step-by-step guidance for maintaining your campervan’s power systems. With video tutorials on topics like charging the house battery, locating powered sites, and troubleshooting issues, the app simplifies the entire process.
Additionally, the app helps you locate powered campsites, dump stations, and refill points along your route, ensuring you’re always prepared for the next leg of your adventure.
Apollo’s recommendations for power management
Apollo makes it easy to stay powered with simple, actionable advice. When in doubt, follow these simple rules:
Ready to power your next adventure with Apollo?
With the right tools and knowledge, managing power in a campervan becomes simple. With these tips up your sleeve, you will be able to keep your devices running and appliances powered throughout your journey with no problem. Ready to start exploring? You can book your Apollo camper online and pick it up from one of our Apollo branches before hitting the road.