We Reveal Our Favourite Caravan 12V Products:
Heading off on a caravan adventure? It takes more than just an amazing caravan to have the trip you've been dreaming about. You need a range of 12V products and accessories to power you along the way.
With so many to choose from, we know it can be overwhelming working out the right products for your caravan. That's why we've compiled a list of some of the best 12V products currently on the market.
Take a look at our favourite 12V products:
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Lithium Batteries
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If it's a lightweight, super-efficient battery system you want, a lithium battery is a top choice. Lithium batteries are famous for offering greater efficiency in a smaller and lighter unit than their lead acid equivalents.
But which one is worth your hard-earned dollars? The Enerdrive ePOWER Lithium Batteries are popular for a reason. Their 12V products come in a range of sizes from 100Ah to 200Ah and are intended for use in deep cycle applications. Our pick is the Enerdrive ePOWER B-TEC 200Ah which comes with wireless monitoring technology, so you can check your battery status from your smartphone.
Better still, you can get the 200Ah Lithium Battery, 12V 40A DC to DC Battery Charger, 12V 40A Battery Charger and ePRO Battery Monitor all in one kit.
AGM Batteries
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If it's an affordable battery you're looking for, an AGM battery is a good pick for your caravan. You can get 120AH Camec AGM battery for just over $300. It's completely sealed in tough, high quality ABS housing and can be stored at any angle, making it a great 12V product for caravans.
Another great pick is the Victron 12V/125Ah AGM Super Cycle Battery for just under $550. We love Victron's 12V products for their superior quality and long-lasting designs, and this AGM battery is no exception. The AGM range offers exceptional deep cycle durability in a lighter package, backed by a 2-year warranty.
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Battery Monitors
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Tired of guessing the health of your battery? When it comes to 12V products, a battery monitor should be on the top of your list. One of our favourites is the Victron Battery Monitor BMV-712 Smart.
It comes with built-in Bluetooth, making for easy wireless communication between products. Simply download the free app on your phone and connect the battery monitor to your battery to see real-time data. It also comes with an impressive 5-year warranty.
Another battery monitor worth checking out is the Enerdrive ePRO Plus. It's easy to use with a plug-and-play installation, supporting up to three battery banks (12V, 24V and 48V).
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DC to DC Chargers
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Charge your auxiliary battery the smart way with a DC to DC battery charger. Our top pick is the Enerdrive ePOWER 40amp 12V charger. It is a fully automatic multistage, multi input battery charger. It can charge from an alternator linked to a battery or via solar power with the in-built Maximum Power Point Tracking solar controller.
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AC to DC Chargers
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The right AC to DC battery charger is a must-have to keep your caravan batteries charged. But which one should you pick? No surprises that our team choose the Enerdrive ePOWER 12V 40A again.
This time the top competitor is the Victron Blue IP67 Smart Charger. Why? Because this charger is completely encapsulated making it waterproof, shockproof and ignition protected. Itcomes with built-in Bluetooth. But best of all, it sets a new industry standard with 92% efficiency or better.
Inverters & Inverter Chargers
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Step up your power solution with an inverter or inverter charger. The Enerdrive ePOWER 2000W Inverter can run lots of AC powered appliances.
Another popular choice is the Victron Multiplus Compact. This combined inverter and charger comes with a true sine wave inverter, adaptive charging, hybrid PowerAssist technology, and a 5-year warranty.
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Battery Management Systems
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How do you keep your auxiliary battery fully charged and ready to go? You need a battery management system to keep your power supply under control. We have a few favourites, all of which are easy to install and use. Try the Simarine by Enerdrive for functionality, ease of use and exceptionally precise battery state of charge and health measurements.
Alternatively, the Projecta 12V 35A Power Management Board deliversthe latest range of premium Intelli' power management equipment on a 35-amp power board. Installation doesn't get much easier than this pre-built power board!
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4WD Canopy Systems
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In 2020, Enerdrive introduced a world first: 4WD Canopy Systems - and safe to say we are obsessed!
These all-in-one systems take the guess work out of what size charger, inverter, wiring etc all goes together to power your electronics in your vehicle. With three different models there is something for everyone's individual needs and wants.
The Explorer is for you if you only require the minimum power.
The Traveller is the next step up and will provide you with AC charging ability.
The Adventurer is the top of the range, all in one system which provides you with the highest level of power including an inverter!
The Lackey Tradie Power System is a Super Tough, Super Compact and Super Simple Solution with all the power you will ever need onsite.
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Power Packs
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No doubt about it, a power pack is an easy and affordable solution for powering your caravan trip. But will you choose lithium or lead-acid power stations?
The Goal ZeroYeti 1500X is up there with the best. This lithium portable power pack is one of the most versatile and innovative power stations you'll find. The best feature is its built-in surge allowances and multi-stage protection which makes it compatible with even more devices.
For a more affordable and powerful option take a look at the EcoFlow DELTA MAX 2000 Portable Power Station. This handy unit has 168Ah at 12V and features 4x240V outlets connect to a 2400W (surge 5000W) inverter. The DELTA Max 2000 also includes multiple USB A and C outlets giving you the ultimate flexibility when heading off-grid.
Last but not least, the Hulk 4x4 2000A Lithium-ion Jump Starter is a solid budget option that promises to get you out of trouble. This unit is a power pack, jumpstarter and torch all in one!
Need help choosing a Portable Power Pack? Check out our video below!
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Solar Panels
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Solar panels provide you with easy and convenient access to power, wherever you travel. Many caravan owners go straight for the fixed panels, like these 150W rooftop panels by Dometic or the 2x 180W twin pack by Enerdrive.
If you want more flexibility about where your solar panels go, portable solar panels are the answer. We love Goal Zero's portable solar panels - theBoulder 100W Briefcase Solar Panels. This product screams quality with its strong tempered glass and aluminium frame with added corner protection and a canvas bag. Best of all, you can couple it with a Goal Zero portable power pack to charge your gear any time.
But our top choice for flexible power is the solar blanket. Baintuff 180w Folding Solar Blanket has everything you need, including the Solar Regulator, simple plug and play Anderson plug connection, watt meter and power analyser. All this for under $850.
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Need more help choosing a solar panel for your needs? Check out our comparison video below!
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Over to You
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Now you've seen our favourites, it's your turn. Are there 12V products you won't leave home without? Tell us what you'd put on the list.
Looking for more information? Give one of our 12V product experts a call on 1300 400 122!
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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.