Motorhome battery: Reliable power supply when camping
Whether you're self-sufficient in the great outdoors or in the comfort of your pitch - a powerful supply battery is the heart of your power supply in your motorhome or camper. Here you can find out which battery types are suitable for your application and what their respective strengths are.
Ready for any adventure: The CB-3.8 charges motorhome and camping batteries fully automatically, reactivates deeply discharged batteries and provides all-round protection. Suitable for 6V & 12V lead-acid and 12.8 V lithium batteries - for full energy on the go.
What makes a good on-board battery for motorhomes?
If you are traveling in a motorhome, a reliable supply battery is indispensable. In contrast to the starter battery, it supplies power for lights, water pump, refrigerator, chargers and other consumers in the living area. The decisive factor is the ability to supply power over a longer period of time - regardless of the engine running.
Important requirements for a motorhome battery:
Leak-proof - especially when installed indoors
Maintenance-free and vibration-resistant
As many charging cycles as possible (cycle stability)
Low self-discharge
Suitable for connection to solar or charging devices
What battery technologies are available?
Wet batteries - cheap, but in need of care
Wet batteries are among the classic caravan batteries. They are inexpensive, but require regular maintenance. The fluid inside must be checked and topped up if necessary. In addition, they may only be installed in the interior with active degassing, as flammable gases can develop.
Advantages: Inexpensive Proven technology
Disadvantages: Not leak-proof Maintenance required Only suitable for indoor use to a limited extent Low cycle stability (approx. 300 cycles)
AGM batteries - robust and maintenance-free
AGM batteries (Absorbent Glass Mat) are a popular choice for camping batteries today. The electrolyte is bound in a glass fiber fleece, making them leak-proof and vibration-resistant. They are well suited to vehicles with occasional power requirements and regular recharging.
Advantages: Maintenance-free and leak-proof Better suited for solar systems than wet batteries Approx. 400 charging cycles
Disadvantages: Lower depth of discharge than GEL or lithium batteries
Tip: The intAct Active-Power AGM is a proven solution for occasional use with shore power.
GEL batteries - long-lasting and durable
GEL batteries are a further development of the classic lead-acid battery. Here, the electrolyte is gel-like, which makes them particularly leak-proof. GEL batteries such as the intAct GEL-Power offer high cycle stability and are ideal for campers who are regularly self-sufficient.
Advantages: Up to 700 charging cycles Very robust, even with vibrations Ideal for off-road or self-sufficient use
Disadvantages: Higher weight Longer charging times
Suitable if you want to upgrade from a VRLA GEL battery, for example.
Lithium batteries (LiFePO4) are considered the modern solution for self-sufficient camping. They are extremely cycle-resistant, can be discharged up to 100 % and offer maximum performance with minimum weight. A typical motorhome lithium battery, such as the FORSTER Premium, delivers up to 5,000 charging cycles.
Advantages: Very high energy density Extremely long service life Fast charging, even with little sunlight Weight saving of up to 75 %
Disadvantages: Higher acquisition costs Check compatibility of the charger
Recommended if you want to be as self-sufficient as possible with solar power.
The right motorhome battery for your type of travel
Choosing the ideal motorhome battery is crucial for your travel comfort and independence. It depends heavily on your individual travel behavior: Are you mostly on the road at campsites or do you prefer the self-sufficient life away from civilization?
For campers who are mainly on campsites and only have moderate power requirements, an AGM motorhome battery can be a good and cost-effective solution. It is robust and provides a reliable supply of energy.
If you value self-sufficiency, longevity and freedom from maintenance, a GEL motorhome battery is an excellent choice. It is particularly cycle-resistant and insensitive to deep discharge, ideal for longer periods without an external power supply.
For travelers with high power requirements who want maximum power, low weight and fast charging times, a lithium motorhome battery is the premium option. It offers the greatest independence, but is also the most expensive purchase.
Choose the battery that best suits your travel habits and power requirements so that you can enjoy your motorhome adventures to the full.
If you don't yet know exactly which supply battery is right for your camper, our detailed buying guide will help you:Which battery is right for your motorhome or camper? There you will find specific recommendations for different types of use and power requirements.
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