Van life has dramatically increased in popularity in recent years, with over 250,000 people currently living off the grid, most of whom are in vans or RVs. Luckily for us, many of them have shared their stories, making it easier than ever for those who want a change.
However, one major problem arises for any first-timer, and that’s finding power solutions. Fortunately, that doesn’t have to be you. Here’s what you need to know!
Power Challenges With Van Life & Off-Grid Living
While bathroom use and claustrophobia get all of the attention, there is one greater challenge that comes with van life, and it’s finding consistent energy, especially at night while you are stationary.
If your van is both your home and your vehicle, you would be foolish to keep it running overnight.
First of all, that opens it up to theft, and secondly, your engine will die much faster. Idling a vehicle for long periods wears engines much more quickly as the fuel and oil are more likely to gum up inside the engine.
Consequently, the greatest challenge to overcome when living the van life is to figure out how to meet your energy needs while the van isn’t in use.
Well, in most cases, you will need a safe and reliable heat source, lighting, and power for your wifi and electronic devices. Also, most food storage systems, water pumps, and other appliances will require large amounts of electricity.
Unfortunately, this can cause serious concerns for health and safety with the van life, as foodborne illnesses become more likely without proper refrigeration, communication devices may die, or medications may expire. That’s why finding solutions early on is so important.
Power Solutions for Off-Grid Van Life
Okay, now that you know why this is such a pressing issue, we can talk about solutions. Here’s how to address your power needs while living off the grid!
External Batteries
One option for off-grid living in a van is to buy multiple rechargeable batteries to charge your phone and small electronics. These are easy to recharge while driving or sitting at a Starbucks.
Typically, they charge to completion within an hour, and if you buy the right ones, you should be able to get at least four full phone charges on each battery.
Also, having multiple “pocket chargers” is a great way to bring portable energy with you when you leave the van. If you go on a long hike or backpacking trip in the woods, that extra energy could save your life.
However, these are rather insufficient when you need to power lights, televisions, appliances, or laptops. Fortunately, there are other options available.
Generators
Now, this is a noisy and heavy option that will take up space in your vehicle, and we would never recommend it for stealth camping. However, if you’re in a pinch and you need some backup power, you can always use a gas-powered generator.
House Batteries
Another option is to use large house batteries, but they come with some problems. Their capacity is limited, they are very heavy, and they take up a lot of space, which isn’t ideal for van life.
However, if you can find a large enough battery and develop a system for recharging it, then this can work wonders!
Solar Generators
For some of the items on this list, you’re only limited to using energy from the van itself for the majority of your power.
When it comes to charging WiFi or mini fridges, you need consistent energy. Unfortunately, you can’t run a gas generator inside, and pocket chargers will never be enough.
Well, with the Bluetti solar generator, you can charge your battery for free while driving or parked and use the battery to charge your electronic devices at night.
Also, you can charge these in the van or with an AC wall outlet if you need a boost, which helps keep your options open.
This way, you’re far less likely to run out of electricity, and you can generate it passively without worrying about the health risks or hazards of a gas-powered generator.
Lastly, you can also purchase extra batteries or solar panels for faster charging and larger capacity. Then, you can power just about all of your electronic needs and never have to worry about interruptions.
Reduce Your Energy Needs
Lastly, the best thing you can do in van life is to try to reduce the amount of electricity you consume. Luckily, there are plenty of easy ways to start:
- Use energy-efficient appliances, televisions, and fans
- Switch to LED lighting
- Use gas or wood-powered cooking equipment
- Use a heated blanket instead of a space heater
- Run the van heater for heat when needed
- Charge your electronics with public outlets
- Properly insulating your van
The list goes on. The mere switch to LED lights from incandescent bulbs will reduce the amount of energy you use for lighting by up to 30 times.
Also, the more of these steps you take to reduce your energy use, the larger of a difference you’ll make.
Once you have reduced your consumption enough, you’ll find that a solar generator is enough to cover your electronics.
Light the Van Up
Now that you know some of the best power solutions for living off the grid in a van, you can start off on the right foot and get the most out of your new lifestyle. Put these tips to use and you’ll never have to worry about power interruptions again.
Try these out for yourself and keep reading our blog for our latest lifestyle tips!
