5 Best RV Battery for Boondocking

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Last Updated on July 20, 2022 by Ted Mosby

Your recreational vehicle is a perfectly balanced combination of a cozy home away from home and a beast while on the road.

Your recreational vehicle’s built structure gives you a feel of home while also having a powerful engine, allowing you to take on different adventures.

One of the most exciting activities for an RV owner is boondocking.

However, the biggest concern is electricity since you cannot set out for long if your RV doesn’t have any source to get a consistent power supply. While boondocking, you have to keep the lights on, fans running, and other appliances in working order to keep yourself comfortable.

So, even when you are out in the wilderness, you can power up the entire electricity set up of your RV by installing the best RV battery for boondocking in it.

But, when choosing the right battery is not an easy process. You have to consider multiple factors to make sure you don’t end up investing in a product not suitable for you and your RV power needs.

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Premium Pick
Optima OPT8016-103 D34M BlueTop Battery
Optima OPT8016-103 D34M BlueTop Battery
  • SpiralCell Technology
  • Dual-Functionality
  • Continuous Lead Plates
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Best Value
Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah Battery
Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah Battery
  • Shock and vibration-resistant
  • Easy to install
  • Compatible to both AC and DC power
  • Quick recharge
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Budget Pick
Interstate Batteries 12V 35AH Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery
Interstate Batteries 12V 35AH Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery
  • Metal charging ports
  • Conveniently portable
  • Lightweight
  • AGM and VLRA technologies
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Optima Batteries 8042-218 D75/25 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery Optima Batteries 8042-218 D75/25 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
  • Shocks and vibration resistant
  • Exceptional starting power
  • Highly Durable
  • Lightweight
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WindyNation 12V 100AH Battery WindyNation 12V 100AH Battery
  • AGM technology
  • Non-spillable
  • Shock and vibration resistant
  • Maintenance-free
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What are the Best RV Batteries for Boondocking?

1. Optima OPT8016-103 D34M Battery

Don’t you want to have a reliable and dependable battery for your rig? It is essential since the battery will provide the necessary power to run the appliances present inside the RV.

If you want a perfect RV battery for boondocking that can serve you even in the harshest conditions without reducing its performance, then Optima OPT8016-103 D34M is what you need.

I’m really impressed with this battery and its performance. The dual-functional battery can be used as a deep cycle and starting battery.

The most impressive feature of the battery is its reserve capacity. Up to two hours is enough time to supply uninterrupted backup power to your recreational vehicle.

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The SpiralCell technology and lead plates enable the battery to generate an immense amount of energy.

Moreover, the battery also recharges quickly, allowing you to get back on the road once it is completed replenishing its power supply.

The design of the battery is also incredibly portable. It is incredibly lightweight when compared to batteries of the same size available on the market.

Although you can mount 12V batteries in any direction, this one should be mounted only in one direction.

However, the battery is both shock and vibration-resistant. It means the lead-acid and other components present in the battery will remain intact even when you are traveling on very rough terrain.

The only displeasing factor of the battery is weak housing. If the battery gets hit, it could be damaged.

Key Features

  • SpiralCell technology.
  • Continuous lead plates.
  • Dual-functionality.
Pros
  • The recharging speed of the battery is impressive and quick.
  • It can be used both as a deep-cycle or a starter battery.
  • The reserve capacity of the battery is exceptional, hitting up to two hours of uninterrupted power.
  • The design of the battery is incredibly portable.
  • It is both vibration and shock-resistant.
Cons
  • The housing is very weak and susceptible to damage.

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2. Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah Battery

If you are going to set up a solar power system for your recreational vehicle, make sure to get the best RV batteries for boondocking to keep all the system components safe, durable, and accessible. In this regard, Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah is the best solution for you since it is shock-resistant and spill-proof.

Regardless of whether you’re setting up a DC or AC power for your recreational vehicle, the battery is a suitable choice. However, you will still need to have an inverter for the AC power. But even if you want to run your electrical rig system on DC power, it will give you enough uninterrupted power for up to three days without having to recharge.

Related Post:  5 Best RV Batteries for Dry Camping

Another impressive thing about the lead-acid battery is, unlike Lithium-Ion batteries, they do not care much about temperature.

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It means the battery will keep its charge well even if you reveal it to harsh climates. Since Lithium-Ion batteries are also less efficient in freezing temperatures, having a sealed lead-acid battery is a wise pick.

You don’t have to worry much about spilling or leakage in case of accidents or when traveling on uneven and bumpy roads.

Moreover, the connection and the installation process of the battery are also pretty easy. However, you should know that it is a bit bulky and heavy as compared to other lead-acid batteries.

It weighs around 60 lbs, so moving it around is not easy.

Key Features

  • Shock and vibration-resistant.
  • Easy to install.
  • Compatible with both AC and DC power.
  • Spill-proof.
  • Quick recharge.
  • Weather-resistant.
Pros
  • The battery is compatible with any type of solar panel.
  • The installation and connection are easy. You can easily combine multiple batteries, depending on your power needs.
  • It is not much sensitive to freezing temperatures and can hold the charge very well.
  • The battery is also maintenance-free and recharges fast.
Cons
  • The battery is a bit bulky.
  • It is heavy. Weighing about 60 lbs means moving the battery around is not easy.

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3. Interstate Batteries 12V 35AH Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery

Do you have a small camper and looking for a compact battery that generates enough power for your low-power appliances and gadgets present inside the camper? Look no further.

Interstate batteries 12V 35Ah is a pretty compact battery with a great capacity of up to 35Ah. It is capable of generating uninterrupted power for a long time.

Additionally, since the battery is considerably small, the portability is also convenient. You can carry the battery anywhere you want using its handle. You can have the battery to operate things like pride mobility scooters, jazzy chairs, leisure lifts, wheelchairs, and more.

The battery building structure also features VLRA and AGM technology that resists it from spilling over while also saving it from overpressure. Moreover, since the RV battery is a professional military-grade, it is appropriate for scooters and wheelchairs as well.

The deep discharge rating of the battery usage will extend the service life of the battery.

What’s more, it also features robust metal-built charge ports assuring safe usage without causing any harm to the ports.

The battery body features shiny plastic, which protects the inner part of the battery from external damage and substantial shocks.

Furthermore, it also offers a one-year hassle-free warranty to provide you with perfect service from the manufacturer.

Key Features

  • Metal charging ports.
  • Shiny plastic body.
  • Lightweight.
  • Conveniently portable.
  • A hassle-free warranty.
  • AGM and VLRA technologies.
Pros
  • The battery is best for small campers, wheelchairs, scooters, etc., to power light appliances for an extended time.
  • Thanks to its compactness and lightweight, the RV battery is conveniently portable.
  • The battery’s body makes it durable while also improving its performance.
Cons
  • The build quality of the battery’s handle is not excellent.
  • The battery itself is suitable only for small campers and appliances that require less power.

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4. Optima Batteries 8042-218 D75/25 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery

Optima 8042-218 D75/25 YellowTop is an excellent RV battery for boondocking if you are looking for a battery that can handle vibrations and shocks comfortably.

It is also a dual-purpose battery, which means you can serve both as a starter and a deep cycle battery.

The battery also delivers up to 15x more resistance to shocks and vibrations for added durability and longevity without compromising performance.

It is also a lightweight battery weighing only 43.5 lbs while also having a reserve capacity of up to 120 minutes for consistency and uninterrupted performance.

The battery has an optimal starting capacity even when the weather is not suitable. It also features a polypropylene case material that protects the battery.

The RV battery is also more durable and has a longer life than previous models while also delivering a maintenance-free performance. What’s more, this battery includes impressively quick recharging as well as the capacity of more than 300 recharge and discharge cycles.

Related Post:  5 Best Lithium Ion RV Batteries Reviewed

Key Features

  • Incredibly shocks and vibration resistant.
  • Exceptional starting power.
  • Durable.
  • Lightweight.
Pros
  • The battery is exceptionally lightweight and delivers great uninterrupted power to keep running all the appliances.
  • The reserve capacity of the RV battery is a lifesaver, having up to 120 minutes’ reserve capacity.
  • The battery is an exceptional pick for boondocks.
  • Optima batteries also have outstanding starting power and can be started quickly even when the weather is too cold or too warm.
  • The RV battery is maintenance-free and easy to operate.
Cons
  • Though the RV battery is lightweight, you will still need a pair of helping hands to move it around.

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5. WindyNation 100AH 12V Battery

WindyNation 100Ah 12V RV battery is manufactured with heavy-duty plates perfect for repeated charge and discharge through the battery’s float service life.

The battery also features AGM technology, so it is spill-free. It means you don’t have to worry about leaks or spills when you are traveling on uneven or bumpy terrains.

Since the battery is rated at 100Ah Amp-hour, it is an excellent source of power when you are considering camping off-grid.

The battery is incredibly powerful and can be used to power up UPS, solar systems, offshore marine systems, and recreational vehicles, among other power-hungry applications.

You will surely appreciate its service life of up to 12 years and pure virgin leads. WindyNation deep cycle battery delivers exceptional power capacity while also supporting very deep recharge rates without reducing the performance.

The Absorb Glass Mate technology (AGM) plates give the battery a non-spilling design while also protecting the leaks battery. Moreover, the creation of the battery is also compact and measures only 13″ x 6.8″ x 8.7″.

However, unlike other batteries that I have listed above, it is a bit on the heavy side, weighing 66 lbs. You can mount the battery on portable electronic applications.

What’s more, the battery also offers a one-year hassle-free warranty, free maintenance and repairs, and replacement of damaged or faulty accessories.

The bottom line is, that WindyNation 100 Amp-hour is an outstanding RV battery for boondocking to power up the entire electrical setup of your recreational vehicle.

Key Features

  • Powerful.
  • Impressive service lifespan.
  • AGM technology.
  • Non-spillable.
  • Shock and vibration resistance.
  • Durable.
  • Maintenance-free.
Pros
  • Although the weight of the battery makes it a bit heavy, it is a powerful deep cycle RV battery for boondocking.
  • It can power up even the most power-hungry applications, such as solar systems, offshore marine systems, recreational vehicles, etc.
  • The service life of the battery is also impressive – up to12 years.
  • The sealed design of the battery makes it non-spillable while also supporting gas combinations.
  • The RV battery is maintenance-free, so you don’t have to worry about electrolyte refills or monitoring distilled water.
  • It is highly shock and vibration-resistant, making it easier for you to travel off the grid without worrying about the battery.
  • You can mount the RV battery in any position and direction without the loss of electrolyte capacity.
Cons
  • The battery is quite massive, making the portability inconvenient. You will not be able to easily move the battery around alone.
  • The RV battery is also a bit pricey.

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So, the question arises, what to look for when buying the best RV battery for boondocking?

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best RV Battery for Boondocking

For RVers, boondocking can mean various things. Some RVers associate the term with having an overnight stay in an RV, regardless of whether it is a Walmart parking lot or any other place. Another type is camping in an RV park.

This is where you set up a camp in an RV campground or any other campground to spend some nights out –  escaping from the city hustle to experience outdoors and nature while still enjoying access to water, electricity, and sewer system.

One more type of boondocking is staying at campsites that are still in the development process. There, you find a safe but undeveloped space to experience the outdoors.

There is no time frame since the duration of boondocking is up to the RVer. However, one thing is sure – you need a dependable, reliable battery for a smoother, safer, and enjoyable boondocking experience. 

Here are the essential points to look for when buying the best RV battery for boondocking,

1. Voltage

While choosing the best RV battery for boondocking, you need to determine your capacity for the activity you are pursuing. Make sure that you have considered the voltage amount your RV is compatible with and what is required for the activities.

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Some RVers prefer connecting multiple batteries, such as two 6V batteries, to have a total of 12V power for their rig. However, the common choice is a 12V battery, regardless of whether it is a deep cycle or a starter battery.

2. Capacity

It is a must to take the battery’s capacity before making the final decision. The amp-hour of the battery is a crucial factor that must be considered since it determines how much power you can store to use it later.

In simple words, if a battery has a 100Ah rating, it means the battery can provide 100-amps for an entire hour.

While considering the capacity of the battery, determine the power requirements that your vehicle is compatible with. Make sure to check the onboard appliances, including devices, gadgets, tools, household items, and others that you would require to plug in or charge for use.

For a rig that is used to be boondocking, it is recommended to find deep cell batteries with higher capacity. The reason is these batteries are more stable when being used as a power source.

Furthermore, another thing to consider is the battery’s charging versatility. If you want an RV battery specifically for boondocking, select a battery that can be easily charged in RV’s solar panel, a generator, a battery charger, or the RV campground’s charging system.

The best RV boondocking battery should be capable of utilizing shore power, generator, and solar power.

3. Performance

The third factor to look for when choosing the best RV battery for boondocking is its performance. However, the outdoors is beautiful but quite unpredictable. So, when determining the performance of the RV battery, make sure to not overlook the temperature factor.

When you travel from A to B point, you encounter different temperatures. In some places, it might be hot with no wind. While in others, it would be hot, windy, and wet.

So, the last thing you want at this crucial moment is to trip because the temperature is affecting its performance.

It means it is essential to look for weather-friendly batteries that can perform at any temperature without reducing the performance.

Some RV batteries cannot work in freezing and low temperatures, while others cannot perform in hot, humid areas. Make sure to get a battery that can sustain regardless of what the weather is.

4. Price

After determining the power needs of your recreational vehicle, the voltage rating, capacity, and performance of the battery, now you have to consider its price.

High-end batteries might be pricy than your expectations, but consider getting them for a smooth and safe boondocking experience.

It would be a long-term investment that you will enjoy while making your rig better.

Check out Best Boondocking Travel Trailers if you are looking for one. 

Wrapping Up

There you go – the 5 best RV batteries for boondocking.

Having an RV battery is crucial, especially when you are dry camping, boondocking, or traveling off the grid. Because you don’t have any external power source to power the entire electrical system of your recreational vehicle.

You will not be able to run RV appliances that are essential, such as refrigerator, lights, microwave over, etc. Moreover, it is also necessary to select the right one according to your RV power needs when buying an RV battery.

Above, I have listed all the vital factors that are must to consider. Furthermore, I have also outlined the five best RV batteries for boondocking that you may want to consider.

For queries, post a comment below. Safe Traveling

FAQ

What battery should I buy for boondocking?

The ultimate RV battery for boondocking according to your RV will depend on the boondocking type you want to do. The points that I’ve mentioned above will give you some great ideas to help in narrowing down the list of battery choices. However, if you are a full-time boondockers, Lithium-Ion batteries are considered the best when it comes to the uninterrupted power supply and lasting performance.

How do boondock batteries work?

Similar to any other traditional battery, RV batteries for boondocking store energy in the form of electricity when the RV is connected to a power source. This stored electricity can then be utilized to power the entire electrical setup of a recreational vehicle and appliances when you don’t have any other external power source.

Do RV batteries for boondocking are maintenance-free?

Yes! Most of the boondocking batteries are maintenance-free or need an easy and minimal performance. However, it is still recommended to regularly monitor battery performance in order to extend its service life.

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About Ted Mosby

I am Ted Mosby from Cleveland, Ohio. I am a Freelance Architect. I live in New Jersey, USA right now and I take my RV every alternate weekend. I own a Forest River Berkshire XLT Diesel 45A Class A Motorhome. As I am a Freelancer I can work anywhere so most of my work is done inside my camper remotely.