What battery for travel trailer?
For travel trailers, deep-cycle lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are the optimal choice due to their high energy density, long cycle life (3,000–5,000 cycles), and lightweight design. These batteries provide reliable power for appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems during off-grid camping. Alternatively, AGM lead-acid batteries offer a budget-friendly option with maintenance-free operation, though they have lower capacity and shorter lifespans (~500 cycles). Always prioritize batteries with integrated battery management systems (BMS) to prevent overcharging or deep discharges.
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What battery chemistry is best for travel trailers?
LiFePO4 lithium batteries outperform lead-acid in nearly all metrics for travel trailers. They deliver 95% usable capacity vs. 50% in AGM, operate efficiently in extreme temperatures (-20°C to 60°C), and reduce weight by ~60%. Pro Tip: Pair lithium batteries with solar charging systems to maximize energy harvesting during dry camping.
While AGM batteries are cheaper upfront, their total cost of ownership often exceeds lithium due to frequent replacements. For example, a 200Ah LiFePO4 battery provides ~190Ah usable energy, compared to ~100Ah from AGM. Lithium units also charge 3x faster, crucial when relying on generators. Transitionally, many RVers initially resist lithium’s higher price but appreciate the long-term savings and reliability.
| Parameter | LiFePO4 | AGM |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Life | 3,000+ | 500 |
| Weight (100Ah) | 26 lbs | 60 lbs |
How to calculate battery capacity needs?
Multiply your daily power consumption (Wh) by desired autonomy days. A trailer using 2,000Wh/day needing 3 days off-grid requires 6,000Wh. Divide by battery voltage (12V) to get 500Ah capacity. Pro Tip: Add 20% buffer to account for inefficiencies and unexpected loads.
Start by auditing all appliances: a 10W LED light used 5 hours = 50Wh, while a 1,000W microwave running 15 minutes = 250Wh. Summing these gives total daily usage. For lithium batteries, you can safely discharge to 10% SOC, but with AGM, limit discharge to 50% to prevent sulfation. Practically speaking, a 300Ah LiFePO4 bank (3,840Wh) comfortably powers medium-sized trailers with moderate AC use.
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FAQs
No—starter batteries degrade quickly under deep discharges. Use only deep-cycle batteries designed for sustained energy delivery.
How often should I replace my trailer batteries?
LiFePO4 lasts 10+ years with proper care; AGM requires replacement every 3–5 years depending on discharge depth and maintenance.