When it comes to van life, having a reliable power source is very important. Whether you’re looking to power your lights, fridge, or other appliances, a good battery is essential. In this article, I’ll be discussing the best batteries for van life, including both standalone batteries and power stations.
When selecting a battery for your van, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Size and capacity of the battery: How much power do you need to run your appliances, and how long do you need the battery to last? You’ll also want to consider the weight and size of the battery, as space is often at a premium in a van.
- Type of battery: There are a few different types commonly used in van life, including lead-acid, lithium-ion, and AGM batteries. Each type has its pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs.
In this article, I’ll be taking a look at some of the top batteries and power stations for van life on the market, weighing the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision. So whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time van lifer, I’ve got you covered.
Best Batteries for Van Life
I know firsthand how important it is to have a reliable power source while living on the road. That’s why we’ve tested and researched the best batteries for van life, so you can keep your devices charged and your lights on no matter where your adventures take you.
My top picks are durable, long-lasting, and designed to meet the unique needs of van dwellers. Check out our list below to find the perfect battery for your van setup.
1. EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max – Portable Power Station
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient power station for your van life, we recommend the EcoFlow Portable Power Station RIVER 2 Max.
Pros
- With an output of up to 1000W, you can run 11 essential appliances simultaneously without worrying about overloading.
- The LFP battery cells provide long-life battery, allowing you to use and recharge RIVER 2 Max more than 3000 times before hitting 80%. That’s almost 10 years of use.
- With a lightweight of only 13.3lbs, RIVER 2 Max is the ideal outdoor portable solar generator for all your off-grid adventures.
- Multiple charging options: It can be charged from portable solar panels, AC wall outlet, directly from your van using the 12V cigarette lighter outlet, or even from an USB-C port!
Cons
- It’s a bit on the expensive side compared to other power stations in the market, but it is also more capable.
- It has a runtime of only 3 hours for a 120W refrigerator. However, it can also be fully charged in just 2.5h using a 220W solar panel.
- The solar panel is not included in the package. So, if needed, you will have to purchase it separately.
We have used this power station during our van life adventures and it has never failed us. We were able to charge our phones, laptops, and cameras without any issues. The X-Stream fast charging technology allowed us to fully recharge the battery in just an hour, which was incredibly convenient.
The advanced BMS protection of RIVER 2 Max monitors voltage, current, and temperature to keep your LFP battery running for years. We also appreciated the built-in handle, which made it easy to carry around during our outdoor activities.
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient power station for your van life, the EcoFlow Portable Power Station RIVER 2 Max is definitely worth considering.
In my opinion, the River 2 Max offers the best compromise between occupied space and available power for your van adventure. In addition, it is also very versatile, offering many different ways of charging. Check it out!
2. Battle Born LFP Deep Cycle 12V Battery
If you’re looking for something more substantial, a reliable and long-lasting battery for your van conversion, the Battle Born Lithium Deep Cycle 12V Battery is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With a lifespan of up to 10-15 years, this 100Ah 12V lithium battery can last for 3,000-5,000 deep discharge cycles, providing excellent return on investment.
- The battery is designed to withstand rugged adventures and can be used for a variety of applications, including camper vans, boats, trolling motors, RVs, and off-grid and residential backup power.
- The battery is designed for versatility and can be wired in series or parallel, making it easy to install in a variety of configurations.
- Made in the USA
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- The Battle Born Lithium Deep Cycle 12V Battery is on the pricier side compared to other batteries on the market.
- If you are planning to charge the battery with solar, then you will need a solar charge controller for RV.
- To get AC, you will need to install a separate inverter, which instead is already included in the power stations.
In our experience, the Battle Born Batteries LiFePO4 Deep Cycle 12V Battery is a high-quality battery that offers excellent performance and reliability for van life.
The battery’s long lifespan and rugged design make it a great investment for anyone who spends a lot of time on the road, and its versatility and safety features make it easy to use in a variety of applications.
If you’re looking for a battery that can power all of your van life adventures for years to come, the Battle Born Battery is definitely worth considering.
3. ENOFLO Portable Power Station
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile portable power station for your van life, the ENOFLO Portable Power Station is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With a high power capacity of 228Wh, this durable lithium-ion battery can charge up to 9 devices simultaneously, including laptops, phones, tablets, lights, fans, projectors, car refrigerators, CPAP machines, drones, switches, and cameras.
- The ENOFLO Portable Power Station features three recharging modes, allowing you to charge it via AC outlet, solar panel (not included), or car charger.
- This portable power station is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for your outdoor adventures. It also comes with a foldable handle for added convenience.
Cons
- The ENOFLO Portable Power Station may not be suitable for powering devices that require more than 300W.
- There are some reports that the LED light is not bright enough.
Overall, we highly recommend the ENOFLO Portable Power Station for anyone who needs a compact, reliable and versatile power source for their van life. With its large capacity, multiple charging options, and lightweight design, this power station is a great investment for anyone who loves to travel off-grid.
This power station is perfect for charging our laptops, phones, and camera while on the road. We also love the emergency LED light, which comes in handy during power outages or nighttime camping.
The digital LCD display is clear and easy to read, and the built-in safety features give us peace of mind. Overall, we’re very satisfied with our purchase and would definitely recommend it to others.
4. LiTime 12V 100Ah BCI Group 24 Lithium Battery
If you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable and high-performing battery for your van life, the LiTime 12V 100Ah BCI Group 24 Lithium Battery may be the one for you.
Pros
- The LiTime 12V 100Ah BCI Group 24 Lithium Battery is globally compatible with the Group24 battery box and all types of vehicles on the market.
- It is 1/3 lighter than a Group24 AGM battery, making it easier to install and transport.
- The battery has a 10-year service life and can last for 4000+ cycles in 100% SOC and DOD.
Cons
- The battery is not suitable for start-up and supports a max. discharge current of 1C.
- Some users have reported issues with the battery’s BMS.
The battery is easy to install and fits perfectly in our van. We also love how it is globally compatible with the Group24 battery box and all types of vehicles on the market.
it’s important to note that the battery is not suitable for start-up and supports a max. discharge current of 1C. Additionally, the battery is a bit pricey compared to other batteries on the market. Some users have also reported issues with the battery’s BMS.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and high-performing battery for your van life, the LiTime 12V 100Ah BCI Group 24 Lithium Battery is definitely worth considering. With its global compatibility, lightweight design, and long service life, it’s a great investment for any van lifer.
5. ALLWEI Portable Power Station 300W – 280Wh
If you’re looking for a portable power station that can power up your devices while on the go, the ALLWEI Portable Power Station 300W is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around during your outdoor activities.
- With its 280Wh/78000mAh capacity and peak 600W, this power station can power up to 9 devices such as drone, tablet, phones, iPad, laptop, camera, CPAP, etc.
- Has 4 charging ways, including solar panel, AC wall outlet, 12V/24V car socket, and generator.
Cons
- Not as powerful as some other options on the market.
- The included user manual may not be very clear and easy to understand.
- Not suitable for powering larger appliances such as refrigerators or air conditioners.
The power station is able to charge phones, tablets, and camera multiple times, and can even be used it to power a small fan during the hot afternoons.
I was impressed with the power station’s LCD screen, which showed all operating status easily and timely.
One thing we really liked about the ALLWEI Portable Power Station 300W is its multiple charging ways. We were able to charge it using our solar panel during the day, and then top it off with our car’s cigarette lighter in the evening.
The power station also has built-in 3-level LED light and SOS mode, which came in handy during our nighttime activities.
Overall, if you’re looking for a portable power station that is easy to carry around and can power up your devices during your outdoor activities, the ALLWEI Portable Power Station 300W is definitely worth considering.
6. jsdSolar 12V 12Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery
If you need a very small lithium battery for your van, then I can recommend you the JsdSolar 12V 12Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery.
Pros
- Outstanding Performance: The high-quality A+ cells with exceptional energy density, extended cycle life, and top-tier safety performance make this battery a great option for those looking for a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to lead-acid batteries.
- Durable & Long-lasting: With the ability to endure over 4000 cycles, this battery far surpasses the limited 300-500 cycles of traditional lead-acid batteries, ensuring longevity and enhancing safety and environmental friendliness compared to lead-acid alternatives.
- Security & Dependability: The advanced Battery Management System (BMS) technology safeguards against overcharging, deep discharging, overloading, short circuits, and maintains a low self-discharge rate, providing enhanced performance and prolonged battery life with peace of mind.
- Very compact: only 151x98x100mm
Cons
- Limited Capacity: With a capacity of only 12Ah, this battery may not be suitable for those with high power needs.
- Compatibility Issues: Some users have reported compatibility issues with certain devices, so be sure to check compatibility before purchasing.
- Mixed Reviews: While the majority of reviews are positive, there are some negative reviews regarding the battery’s performance and longevity (but for the larger battery versions).
Overall, the JsdSolar 12V 12Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery is a great option for those looking for a reliable and long-lasting battery for van life. Its outstanding performance, durability, and security features make it a top choice for those in need of a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to lead-acid batteries.
7. OGRPHY 20Ah LiFePO4 Battery
If you’re looking for a good battery for your van life, the OGRPHY 20Ah LiFePO4 Battery is a great option.
Pros
- With a 10-year lifetime and max 5000+ deep cycles, this battery is made to last.
- The battery is lightweight. This makes it very portable and easy to transport.
- It’s IP65 waterproof, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Cons
- The battery can be a bit expensive compared to other options on the market.
- Not be suitable for larger appliances or electronics.
- The charging time can be slow, especially if the battery is completely drained.
- Customer support not always responsive
The battery is easy to install and use, and it’s lightweight and portable, making it perfect for our mobile lifestyle.
One of the things we love about this battery is its long lifetime. With proper use, it can last up to 10 years, which is a significant investment for van lifers. Additionally, the battery can withstand up to 5000 deep cycles, which means it can be charged and discharged many times without losing its capacity.
The battery is also waterproof, which is a must-have for outdoor use. Just make sure to also use waterproof connectors!
However, there are a few drawbacks you should be aware of. The battery can be a bit expensive compared to other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice for those on a budget.
Additionally, it may not be suitable for larger appliances or electronics, as it has a max load power of 256W. Finally, the charging time can be slow, especially if the battery is completely drained.
The battery comes with a 5-year warranty, however, some users also refer about episodes where the customer service was not responding to their requests. So you may prefer some of the options I mentioned earlier if this is an important factor for you.
Overall, the OGRPHY 20Ah LiFePO4 Battery is a reliable and long-lasting option that can withstand the demands of outdoor use.
8. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery
If you are looking for a reliable and high-performance battery for your van life, Renogy Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery is a great choice.
Pros
- With a 2-year material and workmanship warranty guarantee, this battery is a safe and reliable option for your van life.
- The advanced valve-regulated technology and thick absorbent glass mat (AGM) separators make this battery maintenance-free and safe to use. It does not leak acid or require water refilling, and it does not produce harmful hydrogen gas.
- The improved electrolyte formula ensures stable battery capacity and outstanding discharge performance from 5℉ (-15℃) to 122℉ (50℃), making it suitable for extreme temperatures.
Cons
- At 63.9 pounds, this battery is relatively heavy and may not be suitable for those looking for a lightweight option.
- The battery’s price may be higher than other options on the market, but still very affordable.
Renogy Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and high-performance battery for their van life.
In our experience, we found that the battery performed excellently and powered most appliances, including a fridge, microwave, and laptop, with ease.
We appreciated the battery’s longer shelf life, which reduces the need for frequent recharging when not in use.
However, we did find the battery’s weight to be a bit cumbersome and had some issues with the charge controller compatibility. Overall, as long as weight is not a concern, I would recommend this battery to anyone looking for a reliable and high-performance option for their van life.
9. WOXABHSL 12V 12Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable battery for your van life adventures, the WOXABHSL 12V 12Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery is a great choice.
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight
- Very cheap lithium option
- The 2-year warranty and professional technical support and customer service provide peace of mind and support in case of any issues.
- The battery’s 4000+ cycles and up to 10 years of service life provide better performance and longer battery life.
Cons
- Multiple users reported that the true battery capacity is about 27% lower than advertised for each battery
The battery’s compact size and lightweight design made it easy to transport and install in our van.
We were impressed with the battery’s low price for a lithium option.
If you are looking for a very compact and inexpensive option, then the WOXABHSL 12V 12Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery is a viable choice for your van.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best battery for van life, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:
Capacity
The capacity of a battery is measured in amp-hours (Ah) and represents the amount of energy the battery can store. The higher the Ah rating, the longer the battery will last between charges.
When choosing a battery, consider your energy needs and how long you plan to be off-grid. A larger battery with a higher Ah rating may be necessary if you plan to run appliances or charge electronics for extended periods.
Type
There are several types of batteries to choose from, including lead-acid, lithium-ion, and gel batteries. Lead-acid batteries are the most common and affordable option, but they are also heavy and require maintenance.
Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, have a longer lifespan, and require little maintenance, but they are also more expensive. Gel batteries are a hybrid between lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries and are a good compromise between cost and performance.
Voltage
The voltage of a battery determines how much power it can deliver at once. Most van life setups use a 12-volt system, but some appliances and electronics may require a higher voltage.
When choosing a battery, make sure it is compatible with your system and can provide enough power for your needs.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of a battery are important considerations for van life. A larger battery may provide more power, but it will also take up more space and add weight to your vehicle. Consider your available space and weight capacity when choosing a battery.
Warranty
Finally, make sure to check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in case of defects or other issues. Look for a warranty that covers both parts and labor and has a reasonable length of time.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best battery for your van life setup and enjoy reliable power on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine the appropriate size of battery for my van conversion?
To determine the appropriate size of battery for your van conversion, you need to calculate your daily power needs. This can be done by adding up the power consumption of all your electrical appliances and devices, and then multiplying this by the number of hours you plan to use them each day. Once you have this figure, you can select a battery with a capacity that meets or exceeds your daily power needs.
What are the advantages of using a lithium battery in a camper van?
Lithium batteries offer several advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries. They are lighter, smaller, and more efficient, which makes them ideal for use in a camper van. Lithium batteries also have a longer lifespan and can be charged faster than lead-acid batteries.
What is the optimal battery setup for a van life electrical system?
The optimal battery setup for a van life electrical system depends on your power needs and usage patterns. However, a common setup is to use a lithium battery as the primary battery, with a secondary lead-acid battery as a backup. This setup provides a good balance between efficiency, reliability, and cost.
How long do lithium batteries typically last in van life applications?
Lithium batteries typically last between 5 and 10 years in van life applications, depending on usage and maintenance. However, some high-quality lithium batteries can last up to 15 years or more. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for charging and maintenance to ensure the longest possible lifespan for your battery.
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