RV Power Sources: What Makes for a Lean Mean Camping Machine?

Recreational vehicles are becoming a more and more popular camping alternative. Since we've become so dependent on electricity and technology, tents simply no longer work for us. We need a wide space to fit all the appliances we can't imagine our lives without and with an RV we can successfully do so. But our gadgets and appliances are useless without the electricity to power them. Luckily, just like a real home RVs can also be electrically supported. But as opposed to home where you don't get to think about where the power comes and just assume it's sent from God, in the wild you have to regulate this yourself. Here are the options you have at your disposal:

Mains Power

Mains power is the electricity that powers households. And if it's important for you to make your RV feel like one this should be your go-to power source. Mains power will allow you to run power hungry appliances such as microwaves, cookers, refrigerators and even a plasma TV without any problems or interruptions. Plus, it's widely available. The majority of camping sites around Australia offer a mains power supply option for only an extra $2-15 per night. Of course the camping site will provide you with the 230V hook-up that's going to transmit electricity to your RV, but it is your responsibility to pre-install an RV power inlet on the outside. The inlet has to be made of quality material so that it can sustain any kind of weather conditions. Moreover, make sure it has a seal which will protect it from rain or water and also be used as a safety feature in case there are kids around. Even if you plan to use only a battery, you can never go wrong by having an RV power inlet just in case. It could take days to reach your desired camping spot and your battery could go dead just when you got there. Sure you could spend a few days the good old-fashioned way, but believe me, you'll get frustrated soon. It's always good to have an option to use the site's mains supply if not for anything else, than for charging your battery for the way home.

Battery

A battery is essential for when you want to use electricity while on the road. Sometimes you are going to be driving for hours which can make your kids misbehave and in turn make create a lot of headaches for you. Being able to sit them down in front of a TV or computer can keep them entertained and calm them down. Also, you can do some cooking or washing, which will give you more free time to relax upon arriving at the camping spot. But be careful how much you use it, it can be dried out quickly!

Solar Power

The sun is the mother of all energy sources, without it there simply is no life. Your RV too can come to life with the addition of solar panels. Solar power is the revolution in sustainable green energy. One of the things that makes this a popular RV power option, is that after the initial cost, the powering will be absolutely free! Yay! However, it won't offer enough power to run all the appliances. Say goodbye to your precious air-conditioning unit which you'll be desperately needing after parking the RV in the sun to charge.

Generator

Portable RV generators produce power by connecting an alternator with a petrol or diesel engine. There are generators out there as powerful as 240V, just like a mains power source. Another good thing is that they are generally inexpensive and you can fill them up at every petrol station. But on the downside, they are very noisy and emit carbon monoxide and other toxic fumes. That's why you can't use them inside while travelling and when on the outside you have to always place them far from any people. Moreover, some camping sites ban the use of generators for they can get very hot and are considered a flammable hazard.

Now that you are well-aware of what the pros and cons of the different RV power sources are, it's a lot more easier to make a smart decision and pick one depending on your budget and needs.