Our Picks for the Best Batteries for Van Life
If you’re into van life or RVing, you know that having a good battery is key. Not all batteries are created equal, so it’s important to do your research before purchasing one.
In this post, we’ll discuss the best batteries for van life and your RV, as well as how to care for them. So if you’re ready to hit the open road, read on!
What are the Best Batteries for Van Life or RV?
If you’re like most people, you probably have not given much thought to the batteries that power the electronics in your camper van or RV.
However, choosing the right battery can make a big difference in terms of both performance and reliability.
So how do you know which battery is best for your needs? First, it’s important to understand the types of batteries available. There are five basic types of batteries: lead-acid, gel, AGM, lithium batteries ion, and iron, which we’ll refer to as LiFePO4.
Once you’ve decided on the type of battery you need, it’s time to choose a brand. There are dozens of different battery brands on the market, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.
Compare features and prices to find the best deal on the right battery for your needs. Fortunately for you, we’ve narrowed down the best 100Ah batteries right here.
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- Best Overall Battery – Battle Born 100Ah LiFePO4
- Best Runnerup Battery – Renogy 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate
- Best Third Choice Battery – Dakota Lithium 100Ah LiFePO4
- Best AGM Battery – Renogy Deep Cycle 100Ah AGM Battery
- Best GEL Battery – Renogy Deep Cycle 100Ah Hybrid GEL
Battle Born 100Ah LiFePO4
MSRP $874
best overall
Overview
The champion of the LiFePO4 batteries. With a life expectancy of 3000-5000 cycles (approx. 75-80% capacity after 3000 cycles). Coming in at 31 pounds, these lithium batteries pack a punch.
Features
- Charging voltage: 14.2 – 14.6 V
- Dimensions: 12.76 × 6.86 × 8.95 in
- Weight: 31 lbs.
Pros
Cons
Our Take
We’ve been living off-grid here and there in our van for the past year and a half, and we’ve come to rely on our Battle Born batteries to keep us going. We’ve got 400ah of LiFePO4 battery power and 500 watts of solar to keep us charged up.
We’ve never had any problems with our Battle Born batteries, and they’ve allowed us to live sustainably and completely off-grid without issue. We’re very happy with them and would recommend them to anyone considering van life or off-grid living.
Renogy 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate
MSRP $699.99
best Runnerup
Overview
Renogy’s state-of-the-art battery cells ensure a lifespan of more than 2000 cycles, 100A continuous discharge current, and a wide operating temperature range. The battery management system (BMS) with high-performance dual processors provides short circuits, overcharging, and over-temperature protection while maintaining a balanced voltage across all cells.
Features
- Charging voltage: 10 – 14.8 V
- Dimensions: 12.99 × 6.77 × 8.43 in
- Weight: 28.7 lbs
Pros
Cons
Our Take
Renogy’s LiFePO4 batteries are a very close second when it comes to the best batteries to have. The Bluetooth capabilities are a bonus. Where they lack is the warranty and lower life cycle minimums. Despite this, the battery’s performance is still excellent, and its other features make up for its shortcomings.
For example, Bluetooth monitoring is a great way to keep track of your usage and make sure that the battery is being used properly. Overall, Renogy’s LiFePO4 batteries are a great choice for those looking for a high-performance battery with some extra features.
Dakota Lithium 100Ah LiFePO4
MSRP $899
Overview
Dakota Lithium provides a 100 Ah battery that is designed to provide consistent power for all 100 amp hours. This battery has a flat voltage curve, which means it has a steady power output as the battery discharges. The power output will not dramatically drop like similar-sized SLA batteries. Contains a circuit that handles cell balancing, low voltage cutoff, high voltage cutoff, short circuit protection and high-temperature protection for increased performance and longer life.
Features
- Charging voltage: 14–15 V
- Dimensions: 12.99 × 6.77 × 8.66 in
- Weight: 31.9 lbs
Pros
Cons
Our Take
The Dakota battery is a high-quality product with an excellent warranty. However, its relatively low minimum life cycle of 2000+ is worrisome. For van-dwellers who are constantly discharging and charging their batteries, this may not be sufficient.
We need a battery that can take our abuse day after day. The Dakota’s warranty is awesome, but we’d like to see a higher minimum life cycle before we recommend it wholeheartedly.
Renogy Deep Cycle 100Ah AGM Battery
MSRP $269.99
best overall AGM
Overview
Renogy AGM batteries are a great option for those looking for an efficient, low-maintenance, and low-cost battery. With no acid leakage, no water refilling, and 1100A max discharge current, these batteries can power most home appliances without any problems.
Features
- Charging voltage: 13.5–13.8 V
- Dimensions: 13.1 x 6.9 x 8.6 in
- Weight: 63.9 lbs
Pros
Cons
Our Take
Renogy’s deep cycle AGM battery is a great option if you’re looking for a cheap battery. It’s one of the cheapest on the list, and it’s a great option if you don’t need much from your battery bank. Would be best for short road trips, only a couple of electrical items, and very little off-grid living.
It has a low self-discharge rate, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a battery that will last a long time and not get a lot of use. The only downside is that it’s not as powerful as some of the other options on the list, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a battery that can power your entire van or RV.
Renogy Deep Cycle 100Ah Hybrid GEL
MSRP $299.99
best overall GEL
Overview
Renogy’s Deep Cycle Hybrid GEL Batteries are a great option for anyone looking for a maintenance-free battery. The gel electrolyte and plate composition ensures excellent recovery capability after excessive deep discharge, meaning you can use your battery more without worrying about damaging it.
Features
- Charging voltage: 13.6–13.8 V
- Dimensions: 12.9 x 6.8 x 8.7 in
- Weight: 63.9 lbs.
Pros
Cons
Our Take
If you’re looking for a more inexpensive option for your battery needs, Renogy’s Hybrid GEL battery is a good choice. This battery is leakproof and does not off-gas toxic fumes, making it safe to install in your living area.
Additionally, it is virtually maintenance-free, meaning you won’t have to spend much time or money keeping it in working order. Overall, the Hybrid GEL battery is a great option if you’re looking for an affordable and safe solution for your energy needs.
What are the Five Types of Batteries?
Lead Acid Batteries
Lead acid batteries are one of the most common types of batteries used today. They are made up of a positive lead anode, a negative lead cathode, and an electrolyte solution of sulfuric acid and water.
When the battery is in use, the anode and cathode react with the electrolyte to create lead sulfate. This reaction produces electrical energy, which powers the device or equipment that the battery is connected to.
Lead acid batteries are typically used in cars and trucks, as well as in backup power systems for computers and other electronic devices. One of the advantages of lead acid batteries is that they are relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
However, they have a number of drawbacks as well, including a tendency to leak sulfuric acid when damaged or overcharged.
Lead acid batteries are very reliable and long-lasting. Lead acid batteries are very durable and can be used for many years if properly maintained. However, they do require regular charging and discharging in order to prevent damage to the lead and acid.
GEL Batteries
Gel batteries are a type of lead-acid battery that uses a gel electrolyte instead of a liquid one. The advantage of using a gel electrolyte is that it is less likely to spill, and it can hold more energy than an equivalent-sized lead-acid battery.
Gel batteries are also more resistant to shock and vibration than their liquid counterparts. As a result, they are often used in applications where reliability is critical, such as in medical equipment or backup power supplies.
While gel batteries typically cost more than lead-acid batteries, their longer lifespan and higher performance level often make them the preferred choice for demanding applications.
AGM Batteries
An AGM battery is a Maintenance Free Battery (MFB). Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are a type of lead-acid battery that uses an Absorbed Glass Mat separator between the positive and negative plates.
The AGM separator absorbs the electrolyte, preventing it from coming into contact with the plates. AGM batteries are commonly used in applications where spillage is a concern, such as in aircraft and boats.
They are also frequently used as backup power supplies for computers and other electronic equipment. AGM batteries have a number of advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries.
They are leak-proof, so there is no risk of contaminated electrolytes spilling out if the battery is damaged. They also have a higher tolerance for vibration and shock, making them ideal for use in automotive and marine applications.
In addition, AGM batteries can be discharged and recharged more quickly than traditional lead-acid batteries. AGM batteries can be stored for long periods of time without losing their charge.
For these reasons, AGM batteries are often used in applications where safety and long-term storage are a concern, such as in medical devices or emergency lighting.
However, AGM batteries typically cost more than their lead-acid counterparts.
LiFePO4 Batteries
A lithium iron battery (LiFePO4) is a type of rechargeable battery that uses lithium ions as the primary charge carrier. The iron in the battery’s name refers to the material used for the anode, which is typically made from iron oxide.
LiFePO4 batteries are similar to other lithium ion batteries, but they have a higher energy density and are more stable than traditional lithium ion batteries.
As a result, they are often used in applications where weight is a concern, such as in electric vehicles. LiFePO4 batteries also have a longer lifespan than traditional lithium ion batteries, making them an ideal choice for high-use applications.
As a result, LiFePO4 batteries are becoming increasingly popular for a wide range of applications.
Lithium Ion Batteries
A lithium-ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery that uses lithium ions as an anode. The cathode of a lithium-ion battery is usually made of cobalt, nickel, or manganese, and the electrolyte is a lithium salt in an organic solvent.
Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight and have a high energy density, making them ideal for use in portable electronic devices such as laptops, cell phones, and digital cameras.
In addition, they have a low self-discharge rate and can be charged and discharged many times before needing to be replaced. However, Lithium-ion batteries can be expensive, and some types are known to overheat and catch fire if damaged or poorly made.
Why Choose LiFePO4 Batteries for your Van or RV?
The LiFePO4 battery is the best battery for van life or your RV. There are many types of batteries on the market today, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. But the one type of battery that beats them all is the LiFePO4 lithium battery.
These batteries have a number of advantages over other types of batteries, longer life span, and a higher power density. LiFePO4 batteries are less likely to catch fire than other types of batteries, making them a safe choice for use in critical devices.
However, one downside of LiFePO4 batteries is that they are more expensive than other types of batteries. For this reason, they are often only used in high-end devices. Despite this disadvantage, the benefits of LiFePO4 batteries make them an attractive option for many consumers. Either way, it is important to have some form of backup power source in your van.
Batteries are a must-have in your van or RV because they can be used to power all of your electrical needs while you are on the road. Just make sure you choose the right type of battery for your needs and that you understand how to take care of it.
Key Takeaways
1. Lithium batteries last longer than all the other batteries.
2. Lithium batteries are lighter than other batteries.
3. Lithium batteries charge faster than other batteries.
4. Lithium batteries have a higher battery capacity than others.
5. Lithium batteries do not require as much maintenance as other batteries.
FAQ’s
1. Why are lithium batteries the best for van life or RV?
They are smaller, lighter, and more efficient than the other batteries, making them ideal for small spaces. lithium batteries also have a much longer lifespan than flooded lead acid batteries, meaning they must be replaced less often.
In addition, lithium batteries can be charged faster and hold their charge for longer, making them perfect for use in a camper van and RVs where power is often limited. While lithium batteries are more expensive than lead acid batteries, they are worth the investment for anyone serious about van life or RVing.
2. What are the benefits of using lithium batteries for van life or RV?
Lithium batteries are an essential part of any van life or RV set-up. They provide a shorter charge time and deeper depth of charge and are lighter weight than other types of batteries for van life or RV set-ups.
Shorter charge times mean you can spend more time on the road and less time plugged into shore power. Deeper depths of charge allow you to run more energy-intensive appliances, such as air conditioners and microwaves.
3. How do I choose the right lithium battery for my van or RV?
When choosing a lithium battery for your van or RV, it is important to consider both the warranty and the expected life cycles of the battery. Many manufacturers offer a product warranty, but read the fine print carefully. Some warranties only cover defects in materials or workmanship, while others may also cover damage caused by normal wear and tear.
The life cycle of a lithium battery is typically 2000+ charge/discharge cycles. However, this can vary depending on the type of battery and how it is used. If you plan to use your lithium battery regularly, it is important to choose one with a high life cycle to last longer, like the Battle Born batteries with 3,000-5,000 cycles.
4. What are the different types of batteries available for van life or RV?
Four main types of batteries are used in vans and RVs: lead acid, AGM, GEL, and lithium. Lead acid batteries are the most common type of battery used in RVs. They are typically cheaper than other types of batteries, but they require more maintenance and have a shorter life span.
AGM batteries are maintenance-free and have a longer life span than lead-acid batteries but they are more expensive. GEL batteries are similar to AGM batteries in terms of maintenance and life span but are even more expensive. Lithium batteries are the most expensive but have the longest life span and require no maintenance.
5. How do I install batteries in my van or RV?
Batteries are essential to any van or RV, providing power for lights, appliances, and other essential equipment. However, batteries can also be dangerous if they are not installed properly. The key to safe battery installation is ensuring the area is well-ventilated.
This will help to reduce the risk of fire. Once the area is well-ventilated, carefully place the batteries in their designated location and secure them. Once the batteries are installed, regularly check them for signs of wear or damage.
6. How do I maintain my batteries for van life or RV?
One of the most important things to consider when living in a camper van or RV is how to maintain your batteries. After all, you wouldn’t be able to power your appliances or gadgets without batteries. Luckily, you can take a few simple steps to prolong the life of your batteries.
First, make sure they are always clean and free of corrosion. Second, avoid discharging them completely. Third, keep them protected from extreme temperatures, both hot and cold.
7. What are some common problems with batteries for van life or RV?
Lithium batteries are popular for van life or RV living because they offer many advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries. However, some common problems can occur with lithium batteries. One of the most common problems is that they can require more maintenance than lead-acid batteries.
Lithium batteries also have a higher self-discharge rate, meaning they will lose power even when not used. Additionally, lithium batteries can be damaged by overcharging, so it is important to monitor their charging cycles carefully.
8. How can I extend the life of my lithium batteries for van life or RV?
First, make sure to keep them clean and free of debris. This will help to prevent short circuits and improve the overall efficiency of the battery. Second, store your lithium batteries in a cool, dry place when they are not in use.
Extreme heat or cold can shorten the battery’s lifespan, so it is best to keep them at room temperature if possible. Finally, avoid overcharging or discharging lithium batteries. If you notice that your battery is not holding a charge as well as it used to, it is time to replace it.
Conclusion
LiFePO4 batteries are the best for anyone using a van or RV as their primary mode of transportation. They have a longer life span and higher power density than any other type of battery on the market today.
While they are more expensive than other types of batteries, the benefits make them an attractive choice for anyone looking for a reliable battery solution. Have you tried using a LiFePO4 battery in your van or RV?
