​12V Batteries

Starting batteries are designed to deliver a massive burst of energy for a few seconds to turn over an engine. Deep cycle batteries are engineered for sustained, consistent power delivery over many hours or days, which is what you require to run accessories like 12V Fridges and campsite lighting.

Using a starting battery to run off grid appliances will typically lead to internal damage because they are not built to handle deep discharges. Deep cycle units use thicker internal plates to survive the constant cycling required for remote travel. This distinction is what allows you to maintain your campsite comforts without affecting the power needed to get your vehicle moving again.

Selecting the correct battery size involves calculating your total daily power consumption in amp hours. You must add up the draw of every 12V appliance, focusing on your fridge which is typically the largest load. For a standard weekend trip, a 100Ah battery provides a practical foundation for running basic LED Lights, charge phones and a single one fridge.

Usable capacity varies significantly between battery types. An AGM battery provides roughly 50 percent of its rated capacity before requiring a recharge, while a lithium unit allows for nearly up to 80-90 percent usage. Maintaining your storage levels throughout the day is easier when you pair your battery with high efficiency 12V Solar Panels.Utilise good Battery Monitors will help you track your actual usage and avoid running out of power in remote locations.

Lithium batteries offer a superior balance of usable power and weight savings for most touring setups. While a standard AGM battery should only be discharged to 50 percent, lithium units allow you to use almost all their capacity without damaging the internal cells. This provides more runtime for your fridge and lights from a power source that is roughly 60 percent lighter than a lead acid equivalent. Lithium also handles thousands of charge cycles, making it a better long term investment if you travel frequently.

AGM remains a practical, maintenance free choice for occasional users or simpler builds where initial cost is the primary factor. Browse our selection of high performance Lithium Batteries for your rig, or explore our AGM Deep Cycle Batteries for a proven storage solution.

Lithium Batteries provide significantly more usable power than AGM units, allowing for a much deeper discharge without damaging the internal cells. You can safely use roughly 80 to 90 percent of a lithium battery capacity, whereas an AGM battery should be limited to 50 percent to prevent permanent loss of performance. This means a 100Ah lithium battery provides nearly double the runtime of a same sized AGM unit.

This efficiency is supported by stable voltage delivery. A lithium battery maintains a consistent output until it is nearly empty, keeping your fridge and lights running at peak performance. In contrast, AGM voltage drops as the charge levels fall, which can cause some appliances to struggle. Choosing lithium allows you to maximize your energy storage while reducing the total weight of your vehicle fit out.

You can install a secondary battery in the engine bay if the battery type is specifically rated for high temperature environments. Most travelers choose a dual purpose deep cycle battery for this location because its internal construction handles the heat and vibration of an engine compartment effectively. Standard lithium batteries are generally not suited for under bonnet mounting and should be installed in a cooler area like a canopy or cabin to prevent damage to the internal cells.

Selecting the right battery for your engine bay or setup is a key step in building a professional system. If you are planning a vehicle fit out, you can explore our range of Dual Battery Systems to see how these units are integrated. You should also consider using a high quality Battery Box to provide extra physical protection for your storage source.

Yes, you require a charger with a specific lithium charging profile to safely charge a LiFePO4 battery. Standard lead acid or AGM chargers often use a desulfation mode or higher voltages that can damage the internal Battery Management System of a lithium unit. A dedicated lithium charger provides the precise constant current and constant voltage required to reach a full state of charge safely.

Using a compatible charger helps maintain the performance and longevity of your setup. This requirement applies to both AC units used at home and DC to DC chargers installed in your vehicle for charging while you drive. Browse our range of Battery Chargers to find a matching unit, or explore our selection of DCDC Chargers to support your upgrade.