Last Updated on July 21, 2022 by Ted Mosby
Camping has been the most exciting American pastime for generations. Who does not like a great and peaceful weekend away? Especially if you own a comfortable recreational vehicle.
However, having the best RV battery for dry camping is also crucial since it can save you some headaches.
This is because whether you boondock more frequently or just stay overnight, the battery is the powerhouse of your recreational vehicle. You want a battery that runs for hours and lasts long.
If you consider traveling off the grid for running 120V appliances, such as an electric water heater, microwave oven, and more, investing in the best RV battery for dry camping is crucial.
However, when looking to have the best RV battery for dry camping, it is a confusing task since there are different types of batteries available on the market.
Moreover, when it comes to batteries in general, there are quite a few options out there. What complicates the matter further is calculating the amps and volts to get the right battery.
But worry not, in this post, I have bucketed the 5 Best RV Batteries for Dry Camping that you should consider before investing. Along with that, I have also outlined the essential aspects that are a must to consider when looking for the best Battery for your recreational vehicle’s electrical setup.
So, let’s get started!
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Premium Pick  | ExpertPower 12V 100Ah Lithium LiFePO4 Rechargeable Battery |
| Check Price On Amazon |
Best Value  | Renogy 12V 100Ah Rechargeable Deep Cycle Pure Gel Battery |
| Check Price On Amazon |
Budget Pick  | Optima Batteries 8042-218 D75/25 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Weize 12V 100AH AGM Deep Cycle Battery for RV Camping |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Optima OPT8016-103 Batteries D34M Battery |
| Check Price On Amazon |
What are the Best RV Batteries for Dry Camping?
1. ExpertPower 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery
A couple of years ago, lithium batteries were incredibly hard to find and were out of reach for most RVers because of the higher cost. However, now several companies are manufacturing these batteries, and the cost has also come down significantly.
ExpertPower is one of the best manufacturers of lithium batteries that are available at an affordable cost. The brand produces a vast range of batteries, so you can get your hands on one that is perfect for your RV and your RVing needs.
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SHOP NOWIn this list, I will include a 100Ah deep cycle battery that features the LifePo4 chemistry.
The Battery is cost-effective, considering the features it has to offer. Additionally, you’ll also appreciate the fact that the Battery is UL listed and safety certified.
However, since the Battery comes at a lower cost, I have noticed some shortcomings compared to other popular battery manufacturing brands. The major issue that I have noticed is although the Battery is rated as 100Ah, it discharges up to 70 amps at max, while the charge rate is 50 amps.
It means you will have to attach more batteries in parallel if you need more power for larger loads. Moreover, you should also know that the Battery can only connect up to four batteries in parallel. Since the Battery is 12V itself, connecting more batteries to it in a series doesn’t affect its performance.
The best feature about the ExpertPower 100Ah LifePo4 battery is it features BMS (Battery Management System), which means it is equipped with all the necessary protection against any kind of fault or power failure.
Overall, it is a deep-cycle lithium battery that has various strong points and amazing safety features. Moreover, the Battery also comes at a significantly low cost, delivers good life cycles, is safety certified, and is maintenance-free.
So, it is among the best batteries for dry camping to keep powering all the appliances inside your vehicle.
Key Features
- Safety certified.
- Battery Management System.
- Maintenance-free.
- The lithium battery comes at a considerably low price.
- It features a reliable battery management system and is safety certified.
- The Battery is capable of delivering up to 7000 cycles at 50% depth of discharge.
- The charge rate of the battery is only 50 amps.
2. Renogy 12V 100Ah Rechargeable Deep Cycle Pure Gel Battery
When you are out in the market to find the best deep cycle batteries, pure gel batteries like the Renogy 12V 100Ah are the safest and best batteries for dry camping.
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SHOP NOWRenogy 12V 100Ah pure gel battery is durable and cost-efficient as well when compared to lead-acid batteries. This is because lead-acid batteries are more sensitive to high ambient temperatures. Simultaneously, if you have a pure gel battery, you don’t have to worry about weather conditions during the summer.
Besides being temperature-resistant, another thing about pure gel batteries that appealed to me is their durability since they can last up to 10 years or more.
Renogy 12V 100Ah battery features triple-sealed construction. The Battery’s built structure protects electrolytes from being spilled out and ensures the airtight and liquid state of the Battery in any operating conditions.
Almost all the Renogy batteries are also equipped with PE compound separator construction, which means the electrolytes are distributed evenly throughout the Battery’s interior to keep all the parts of the Battery in an even state.
Moreover, since it also features lead-calcium grid alloy, the Battery itself has a really low discharge rate while also delivering incredibly reliable performance.
At a normal temperature, the Battery’s self-discharge ratio is about 3% per month of the overall battery capacity. What’s more, the Battery also boasts various safety features. For example, it is equipped with explosion-proof security valves, helping to prevent the production of redundant gases.
Furthermore, the Battery building structure is also designed to eliminate the risk of fires that could occur in the internal Battery due to sparks.
Key Features
- Explosion-proof.
- Non-spillable and leak-proof.
- Extended shelf life.
- Low self-discharge rates.
- The Battery includes several security features.
- It prevents any hazardous gas build-up that could cause the battery to explode.
- The self-discharge ratio of the Battery is incredibly low, which means it can hold the charge even when your vehicle is not hooked up to a trickle charge.
- The Battery has an extended lifespan even when not in use (stored properly).
- The Battery is cumbersome. It might be hard for you to install and move the Battery around all by yourself.
3. Optima Batteries 8042-218 D75/25 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
Optima batteries 8042-218 is another excellent battery for dry camping.
Optima YellowTop batteries utilize AGM technology and deliver high-performance. As the battery name says, it is a dual-purpose battery, capable of serving as a starter battery and a deep cycle battery at once.
You will surely appreciate its premium cranking power and unparalleled cycling capacity, making the Battery a perfect pick for almost all types of recreational vehicles.
Whether your vehicle has power-hungry appliances or high-demand electronics, you can depend on this Battery to provide powerful starting and deep cycle power. At the center of the Battery, it features SpiralCell technology, comprising two pure lead plates.
When combined with SpiralCell technology and continuous lead plates, the Battery’s unique build structure makes the Battery more precisions-controlled and expensive than traditional AGM batteries. Besides all the security features and amazing utilities this Battery offers, it is lightweight, weighing only 43.5 lbs.
For more consistent performance and uninterrupted power, the battery’s reserve capacity is up to 120 minutes.
The Battery also delivers a considerably quicker recharging rate and the capacity of 300-plus discharge and recharge cycles.
Key Features
- Weather-resistant.
- SpiralCell technology.
- Vibration and shock-resistant.
- Since the Battery weighs only 45 lbs, it is not one of the heaviest batteries available on the market.
- The reserve capacity of the Battery is exceptional. Up to 120 minutes of reserve capacity are a lifesaver in circumstances when your vehicle is not connected to an external power source.
- The starting power of the battery is great. You can start it in any kind of weather condition.
- The Battery is not easy to move around even though the weight is under 45 lbs.
4. Weize 12V 100AH Deep Cycle AGM SLA VRLA Battery
When it comes to the best RV batteries for dry camping, the Weize 12V 100Ah battery could be a wise pick. The Battery is incredibly reliable and durable, which makes it a suitable option for dry camping or boondocking.
The most striking aspect of this RV battery is that it is not much sensitive to full drainage when compared to other batteries with the same capacity.
The RV battery is also compact and lightweight, which means you can easily move it around and store it anywhere.
Another great aspect of this RV battery is its advanced, heavy-duty calcium-alloy grid, which helps to improve the overall functionality of the Battery, while also enhancing its service life.
Since the RV battery also utilizes AGM technology, it features a valve-regulated design. So, you can safely use the Battery in both indoor and outdoor environments without worrying about leaks, spilling, or maintenance.
Key Features
- AGM technology.
- Heavy-duty calcium-alloy grid.
- Valve-regulated design.
- Spill-free.
- Leak-free.
- Maintenance-free.
- Ultra-low resistance level.
- Lower self-discharge.
- The installation of the RV battery is pretty simple.
- The design of the Battery is safe, secure, and non-hazardous.
- It is also maintenance-free, spill-free, and leak-free.
- The RV battery is a versatile option. It can be used for solar panels as well.
- Wire harness and mounting are not included in the package.
- You cannot charge the battery in a sealed container.
5. Optima OPT8016-103 D34M Battery
Do you like Optima Batteries 34/78 but looking for a deep cycle battery? If you have answered yes, Optima OPT8016-103 is the perfect pick for you. Like any other Optima dual-purpose battery, it can also serve you as a starter and a deep cycle battery.
The multipurpose is highly popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
Since the OPT8016-103 is exclusively designed for adverse operating circumstances, the Battery delivers high performance in all types of weather conditions, from extremely hot deserts to bitterly cold winters.
You will also appreciate its stringent manufacturing standards that deliver an exceptional life expectancy to the Battery.
Moreover, the Battery also packs spiral-wound cells and coated lead plates, which ensures to delivery of outstanding outputs without variations.
Since the Battery is a sealed one, you could mount it anywhere and in any position you like without worrying about spilling or leaking.
The Battery is also maintenance-free, and you don’t need any maintenance. Furthermore, it weighs 43.5 lbs only, so you can easily move it around on your own.
Key Features
- SpiralCell technology.
- Weather-resistant.
- Vibration and shock-resistant.
- Non-hazardous design.
- The Battery is entirely sealed, so you can mount it anywhere and in any position you like without worrying about spilling or leaks.
- It is incredibly durable and has an extended lifespan.
- It is light and can easily be moved around.
- The Battery is also maintenance-free.
- The warranty claiming process for the Battery is cumbersome.
How to Choose the Best RV Battery for Dry Camping?
Below, I will go over multiple factors you need to look for when buying the best RV battery for dry camping.
1. Deep Cycle Battery is a Must for RV
The first thing you must know before buying a battery for your recreational vehicle is that it should be a deep-cycle battery.
In simple words, you cannot use a car battery for this purpose. Deep cycle batteries are capable of discharging and recharging quickly. On the other hand, car batteries are only good at providing a powerful burst of power to start the engine.
Deep cycle batteries are manufactured using thick plates while also having dense active material, making them withstand the frequent charge and discharge cycles.
These batteries generate stable and constant power over extended periods. That is why having a deep cycle battery for dry camping is essential.
2. 6V vs 12V Batteries for Dry Camping
A recreational vehicle generally has two types of appliances—ones, which can be run over 120V and others that can only be run on 12V.
An RV comes with a 12V battery or a pair, and they generally power up the 12V appliances.
However, to run 120V appliances, an inverter is required that can convert the battery power to match this number.
It means you will need a 12V battery setup to run the appliances present in your RV. You can also get this through a 12V battery or by combining two 6V batteries in a series.
You should also know that 6V batteries usually last longer while also providing higher charge and discharge rates than a 12V battery.
The 12V batteries, on the flip side, are even more expensive. However, it is up to you whether you go with a 12V or two 6V batteries.
Types of RV Batteries for Dry Camping
Deep cycle RV batteries are available in different classes, and each utilizes different chemistry and has its advantages and disadvantages.
Below, I will highlight these battery types, so you get a clearer idea about which Battery you should choose depending on your dry camping level.
1. Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are responsible for converting chemical energy into electrical energy and then storing it. Placing the lead-acid batteries indoors is dangerous since they release gas fumes.
These types of batteries are also large and heavy, and they require regular maintenance as well. What makes these batteries even more complicated is that the acid inside the batteries is spillable.
Considering all of this, these batteries might not be one of the best options if you are planning to travel off the grid.
However, if you go dry camping once in a while or stay a day or two, they are among the best since the batteries are known for providing a stable current and are low cost.
2. Absorbed Glass Mat or AGM Batteries
Although AGM batteries are essentially lead-acid batteries, they use a fine fiberglass matt that helps absorb the sulfuric acid to make the Battery unspellable.
It means AGM batteries are a better option than lead-acid batteries for dry camping. It is because they have a spill-proof and maintenance-free design.
However, these batteries don’t last as long as lithium-ion batteries, but they have a low, upfront cost.
3. Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium ions change their position through an electrolyte, going from positive to the negative electrode while charging and negative to the positive electrode during discharge.
Lithium-ion batteries are available in a range of chemistries. The most common one is lithium iron phosphate, which is more practical and safer.
It means lithium-iron-phosphate batteries are among the best when it comes to the best RV batteries for dry camping.
They don’t only hold the charge efficiently but are also maintenance-free and last for an extended period. These batteries can be charged through any power source, such as solar, generator, or wind.
However, these batteries are also more expensive. If you are considering dry camping or boondocking, they are an excellent and more cost-effective options in the long run.
You just need to add additional batteries to the setup while using an inverter, and you can power up anything on them.
Capacity of the Battery
The capacity of an RV deep cycle battery is calculated in amps (Amp-hour or AH). AH essentially means the amount of electricity a battery can deliver in an hour. Almost all the latest battery models represent an amp-hour and a time value in which it will be discharged completely.
For instance, if a battery label says 200Ah @ 20 hours, it means the battery can run a load of 10 amps uninterruptedly over 20 hours until it discharges completely.
So, if you use only 50 amps, you can keep it running for up to 40 hours.
Now, it is your call to determine the power requirement you want a battery to draw. Almost all the RV appliances come with amps they draw to run.
You can calculate the number of appliance’s amps running at a time to determine the time your Battery will last. RV batteries are available in a wide range of capacities, ranging from milliamp-hours to a thousand amp hours.
Although several deep cycle batteries have a range between 100 to 300Ah, you can increase the amp-hours by adding more batteries to them.
Charge and Discharge Cycles of a Battery
The depth of discharge of a battery means the capacity discharged from a charged battery. This is generally presented in percentage, running from 50% for the majority of lead-acid and AGM batteries to 100% for lithium-ion batteries.
It means if you have a lead-acid battery, you will have only that 50% of capacity at your disposal. You can completely discharge the battery once in a while, but it will reduce battery life.
Charge and discharge cycles also hint at the battery life. This is generally indicated combined with the depth of discharge.
A battery with a 50% discharge rate delivers more cycles than a battery with an 80% discharge rate.
A battery completing a single discharge and charge rate in one day has 500 life cycles, which means you will get 500 days of working out of it.
All of it means a lead-acid battery lasts only a couple of years while a lithium-ion battery can easily serve a decade or more.
Final Thoughts
There you go – 5 best RV batteries for dry camping. This guide highlights each and everything you need to know when buying an RV battery for dry camping.
If you still have got any queries, do not hesitate to post a comment below. Safe Traveling.
FAQ
ExpertPower 12V 100Ah Lithium LiFePO4 Deep Cycle is one of the best RV batteries for dry camping. It is safety certified, maintenance-free, and includes BMS, and many other useful features.What is the perfect RV battery for dry camping?
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