​Campervan

Building a dependable power system for your van requires a secondary battery, a charging source, and a way to monitor and distribute energy. This auxiliary setup allows you to run your fridge and lights without affecting the battery needed to start your engine. You will need a high quality deep cycle battery, a DCDC charger to manage the power from your alternator, and a fuse block to organize your circuits safely.

The choice of components depends on your daily power needs and how long you plan to stay off grid. Most van builds prioritize space saving parts that can be tucked away in cabinets or under seats. To find the right foundation for your project, browse our selection of 12V deep cycle batteries or find a professional DCDC charger for your setup.

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries provide a superior balance of weight and usable power for a van conversion. Because van builds are often limited by weight constraints, choosing a battery that is up to sixty percent lighter than an AGM equivalent helps you stay under your vehicle weight limit. You also get significantly more usable energy, as lithium can be discharged almost completely without the risk of damaging the internal cells.

The faster recharge times and stable voltage mean your electronics perform better throughout the entire discharge cycle. This longevity makes them a smart long term investment, typically providing many years of regular off grid use before performance begins to fade. This efficiency helps you achieve a capable setup that handles the daily draw of fridges and fans without the physical bulk of a traditional lead acid system.

Selecting a DC-DC charger depends on your alternator type and the size of your auxiliary battery. Most late model vans use smart alternators that require a dedicated charger to maintain a consistent voltage for a complete recharge. You should aim for a charger with an output amperage that represents about 20 to 30 percent of your total battery capacity.

Many modern units also feature a built in MPPT regulator, which allows you to connect solar panels directly to the charger. This combined approach saves valuable space in a van build and simplifies the electrical setup by centralizing your power inputs. Browse our selection of DCDC chargers to find a professional unit for your rig, or explore our solar controllers for more ways to manage your charge.

The choice between fixed glass and flexible solar panels depends on the roof profile of your van and your weight limits. Fixed glass panels are often the most cost effective choice and perform well over a long service life because the air gap beneath them helps manage heat. Flexible panels are much lighter and can follow the contours of a campervan roof, which helps maintain a low profile and improves aerodynamics while traveling.

If you have a roof rack or a flat mounting surface, a glass panel is a sturdy and high performing option. For those who want to avoid drilling or need to keep the vehicle height as low as possible, flexible panels can be bonded directly to the roof surface. Both options help you capture the sun and maintain your power levels. You can compare our 12V solar panels to find a glass option or browse our selection of flexible solar panels for a lightweight alternative.

The choice depends on your interior layout and how you prefer to access your cold storage. Upright fridges are a favorite for permanent campervan conversions because they fit neatly into cabinetry and provide home style convenience. This saves you from digging through a deep unit to find what you need, which helps maintain an organized and functional living space.

Chest fridges are typically more efficient because the cold air stays trapped inside when the lid is opened. They are also versatile enough to be moved between your van and your campsite, making them a great choice if you do not want a fixed installation. For a sleek, integrated build, browse our upright fridge freezers, or explore our portable fridge freezers for a portable and efficient alternative.

The Caframo Sirocco II is widely considered the benchmark choice for air circulation in a campervan build. It features a unique gimbaled design that allows you to direct airflow in any direction while drawing very little power from your battery system. This low draw is a major advantage for off grid travel where managing energy levels is a priority.

Beyond its efficiency, the fan operates with whisper quiet technology and includes timer presets to help you sleep comfortably without worrying about battery drain. For managing humidity or clearing cooking smells, you might also consider an exhaust fan or a roof vent to keep the cabin air fresh. Browse our selection of internal fans to find the right model, or explore our full ventilation and cooling range for more airflow solutions.

Installing an inverter allows you to run standard 240V household appliances like laptops, coffee machines, or power tools from your 12V battery system. You must choose a pure sine wave inverter for a van build to protect sensitive electronics from damage caused by unstable power. The size of the unit depends on the total wattage of the gear you plan to use at the same time.

Safety is a major factor, as high wattage inverters draw significant current. This requires thick battery cables and a correctly rated fuse to prevent overheating or voltage drop. You also need a battery bank with enough capacity to handle the load, especially for heating appliances like kettles. Browse our range of inverters to find a unit that matches your requirements, or explore our 12V pure sinewave inverters for clean power delivery.