The Electrical System
It's critical to understand why using a hair dryer in a van camper taxes your electrical system much more than charging a cell phone. The Van Camper HQ Buyers Guide goes into detail about electrical systems and how to match your needs with what a van offers.
12 volt DC vs.
120 volt AC
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In North America, most devices run on either 12 volts DC or 120 volts AC
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Understanding volts, watts, and amps is important when considering a van camper's electrical system and whether it's suitable for off-grid use.
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High-wattage devices like air conditioners, heaters, and motors can drain batteries quickly, so it's best to use them on shore power, a generator, or the van's engine running to offset the drain.
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Inverters play a key role in converting DC power from batteries into AC power that can be used by most household devices.
Batteries:
AGM vs LiFePo4
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) and lithium (LiFePo4) batteries each have their pros and cons for van campers.
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AGM batteries are generally less expensive, simpler to manage, and work well in freezing temps. But they're heavier, have a shorter lifespan, and offer less usable capacity compared to lithium batteries.
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LiFePo4 batteries are lighter, more efficient, and provide more usable energy with a longer lifespan, which makes them ideal for extended off-grid use. The downside is their higher upfront cost and the need for more complicated charging systems.
Shore Power
When plugging your van camper into shore power, use an EMS (Electrical Management System) like those from Progressive or Watchdog. It's cheap insurance against electrical issues that could fry your RV's electrical system.
50 amp connections are safe to use with your van as long as you have the proper “dog bone” adapter.
For 30 amp connections, you’ll use a TT-30 cord.
If you’re plugging into a typical 15 amp household outlet with an adapter, be cautious. Your power could be limited. For example, an 11k BTU A/C can run on 15 amps but will consume most of the available power, restricting the use of other appliances in the van.
Generators
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Gas, LP, or diesel options available.
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Be aware of restrictions on when and where generators can be used.
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Inverter Generators: Preferred for lower maintenance; no carburetors, fewer issues.
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Require monthly exercise and regular upkeep.
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Permanently Mounted Generators:
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Common in B vans, typically 2500 or 2800-watt Onan units mounted under the chassis.
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Can include auto-start when batteries get low.
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Potential clearance issues due to low positioning so be careful driving!
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Portable Generators:
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Don't store inside the van!
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Units with 30 amp plugs tend to be large and heavy
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Charging Your Batteries
Alternator Charging
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Engine Alternator: Common and inexpensive, typically providing 30-50 amps (360-600 watts). It’s slow but “free” charging while driving.
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Second Alternator: A dedicated alternator offers high-amperage charging (e.g., 280 amps, 3300+ watts), up to 6x faster than standard alternators.
Solar
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Converts sunlight into energy for charging batteries, offering “free” power. Typical setups generate 200-300 watts but expect less due to efficiency losses.
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Options include rigid and flexible panels.
Shore Power or Generator
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Provides 120v power and charges batteries when plugged in.
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Some vans like the Winnebago Solis can use 120v power only when plugged into shore power because they have no inverter.
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Others use inverter/chargers that can convert 12v battery power to 120v household power without being plugged into shore power.
Portable Power Stations
Often called (erroneously) “solar generators”
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Brands like Ecoflow, Bluetti, and Jackery are popular. These devices are essentially LiFePo4 battery banks with built-in inverters, various 120v and 12v plugs, and the ability to charge via solar panels, household outlets, or even engine alternators. They are not true “generators.”
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In B Vans, primarily useful as backup power or for outdoor use at campsites. High-capacity units are generally too large and heavy to replace shore power or traditional generators.
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Recharging: You’ll need a reliable way to recharge these units on the road, which depends heavily on your van’s electrical setup.
Future of Power in Van Campers
Short-Term:
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Expect lithium batteries to become the standard, fully replacing AGM batteries due to their advantages.
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Continued advancements will make lithium batteries cheaper, lighter, and more robust, enhancing their appeal for van campers.
Long-Term:
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Some version of fully electric van chassis -- think the Tesla of cargo vans -- will eventually replace the internal combustion engine.
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Electric B vans will offer integrated power solutions, eliminating the need for separate generators or complex charging setups.
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This shift could revolutionize van life by making power management more seamless and eco-friendly.