Camper Trailer Action — Issue 104 2017

8. 12V POWER

If you’ve ever experienced 12V power in your

camper trailer fi rst hand, you’ll know what we

mean when we say it’s almost a necessity. It

allows you to power up the camper’s lights,

keep the beverages icy cold in the fridge and

enjoy all the little accessories that make life

in the bush simple. The 12V system that best

suits your camping needs will depend on your

particular power requirements, so let’s have a

closer look at the options available.

PORTABLE 12V POWER

Portable power packs and battery boxes are

now available with more capacity options than

ever before. This allows you to choose the

perfect balance between capacity, weight and

size, which ultimately affects the camper’s

overall weight and storage space. Recharging

is usually as simple as plugging them into your

4WDs 12V socket which makes them great for

both weekend trips or extended tours. The best

part about power packs is they can be used for

a variety of applications, making them great

value for money.

Average price range: $100 - $500

AUXILIARY BATTERY

Installing an auxiliary battery system into

your camper is particularly good for powering

electrical equipment such as your fridge and

electric water pumps. Used in conjunction with

an isolator switch, this system can automatically

charge via your 4WD’s alternator as you drive,

making it particularly easy to use. Installation

can be as basic or as complex as you like, but

your 4WD will need a power outlet using an

Anderson plug or similar to supply power to the

camper’s battery. However, this can increase the

installation labour costs and limits which vehicle

can actually tow the camper.

Average Price Range: $250 - $450

Mounting your auxiliary battery in a battery box allows
an easy method of disconnection and protects your battery

The best part about portable battery

packs is you can power up your

accessories independently to your

camper trailer

FEATURE

Best Value Upgrades