Travel trailer owners know the importance of having a reliable battery to power their adventures. A top-quality travel trailer battery ensures that all the essential appliances and devices in the trailer run smoothly, providing a comfortable experience on the road.
With several battery options available in the market, choosing the right one for your travel trailer requires considering factors such as battery type, capacity, and lifespan.
In this article, we will discuss the best travel trailer batteries available in the market, taking into account their features, performance, and customer reviews. By the end of the guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make a confident decision on the ideal battery for your travel trailer needs.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Battle Born LiFePO4
Best Runner-up
Odyssey PC680
Best Maintenance-Free
Universal Power Group 12V
Best Overall
Battle Born Batteries LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
The Battle Born LiFePO4 is a highly regarded RV battery among users for its reliability and performance. This lithium-ion battery is lightweight and offers an extended life cycle, making it an excellent investment for travel trailer owners. It provides a high level of energy efficiency, effectively powering various appliances and accessories while on the road.
The Battle Born Batteries LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery is a top choice for those searching for a dependable travel trailer battery. Its 100Ah 12V capacity ensures users enjoy up to 10-15 years of power.
Built for rugged adventures, this fast-charging battery is perfect for various applications such as campers, vans, boats, trolling motors, and more. It can even be used for industrial, off-grid, and residential backup applications.
One of the standout features of this battery is its versatility. The lightweight and eco-conscious design allows for wiring in series or parallel. Moreover, it is safe to mount in any orientation, as it is designed with safety in mind and does not contain any acid.
This battery also comes with a built-in Battery Management System (BMS), protecting it against extreme temperatures, high and low voltages, short circuits, and other common causes of battery failure.
Pros
- Up to a decade of use with 3,000 – 5,000 deep discharge cycles
- Versatile and suitable for various applications
- Built-in BMS for internal protection
Cons
- Slightly expensive compared to other options
- Requires a custom box for mounting
- A weight of 31 pounds may not suit all users
Best Runner-Up
Odyssey PC680 Battery
Another popular choice among RV enthusiasts is the Odyssey PC680. This battery stands out for its remarkable durability and capability to deliver powerful starting and deep cycling performance. With resistance to vibrations and efficient recharging, the Odyssey PC680 presents a reliable option for travel trailer owners who seek a battery with a long service life and constant power availability.
Odyssey’s PC680 Battery “Odyssey Batteries Powersports Battery” is a heavy-duty battery designed for various powersports applications, including travel trailers. With its rugged construction, this battery can withstand extreme conditions, such as shock, vibration, and temperature fluctuations.
Its pure lead plates offer twice the overall power and three times the service life of conventional batteries, making it an ideal choice for travel trailer owners looking for a reliable and powerful energy source.
In addition to its durability and power, the Odyssey PC680 Battery features AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) technology, which prevents acid spills and allows for mounting flexibility. Its high conductivity, corrosion-resistant tin-plated brass terminals ensure a steady flow of power to your travel trailer appliances and equipment.
Moreover, this battery can be recharged up to 100% in just four to six hours, allowing users to continue their journey without long charging periods.
In conclusion, the Odyssey PC680 Battery is a reliable and robust choice for those seeking a long-lasting battery for their travel trailer. Its rugged construction, fast recharge times, and extended service life make it a worthwhile investment for a worry-free experience during your adventures.
Pros
- Long service life (3-10 years) with limited 2-year full replacement warranty
- 70% longer cycle life compared to conventional deep cycle batteries
- Fast recharge and non-spillable AGM design
Cons
- Might be heavy for some users
- Terminal screws not always included
Best Maintenance-Free
Universal Power Group 12V
The Universal Power Group 12V AGM deep-cycle battery is known for its remarkable performance at a budget-friendly price point. This sealed lead acid (SLA) battery is designed for low maintenance and a long lifespan, making it suitable for travel trailer applications. Its ability to charge quickly and provide continuous power even under demanding environmental conditions makes the Universal Power Group 12V a popular choice among RV users.
The Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah Battery is a sealed lead acid (SLA) maintenance-free battery designed for a wide range of applications, such as electric vehicles, motorcycles, and solar power systems. The battery’s high-strength calcium alloy grid offers excellent performance and service life in both float and cyclic uses, ensuring a worry-free power source for consumers.
One of the most significant advantages of the Universal Power Group battery is its maintenance-free design. It uses absorbent glass mat (AGM) technology with a valve-regulated structure, allowing it to be used in enclosed and indoor environments without leaks, providing superior performance for an array of models.
In addition, this battery can be mounted in any position and resists shock and vibration, ensuring long-lasting performance in high and low temperatures.
In conclusion, the Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah Battery is a reliable option for those who require a maintenance-free, high-performance power source. Although it is heavy and may not fit all battery boxes, it still offers numerous advantages, such as high discharge rates and resistance to shock and vibration, making it a popular choice among consumers.
Pros
- Maintenance-free and UL Listed
- High discharge rate and wide operating temperatures
- Shock and vibration resistant
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Limited to AGM SLA technology
- May not fit in all battery boxes
Vpment 12V 200Ah LiFePO4 Battery
The Vpment 12V 200Ah LiFePO4 Battery is a good choice for travel trailers and RVs, offering strong BMS protection and a long lifespan.
The Vpment 12V 200Ah LiFePO4 Battery is designed for convenient power solutions in various applications, including travel trailers and RVs. Its built-in intelligent BMS protects the battery from overcharge, over-discharge, over-current, and short-circuit, while the temperature protection function ensures safe usage and resets automatically after cooling down.
This LiFePO4 battery is compatible with various devices, such as solar power storage, campers, vacuum cleaners, and lights. It can support up to a 2000W inverter with its 2560W max power output. With a capacity and voltage expansion feature, users can connect up to four identical batteries in series or parallel to fit their power needs.
Another advantage of the Vpment 12V 200Ah LiFePO4 Battery is its long lifespan of over 4000 cycles, making it more durable than traditional lead-acid batteries. It is also lightweight, weighing only 48.5 pounds, and has a compact size for easy installation and portability. However, it’s essential to charge the battery every three to five months if not in continuous use to maintain its performance.
Overall, the Vpment 12V 200Ah LiFePO4 Battery offers strong BMS protection, a long lifespan, and lightweight portability, making it a viable option for those seeking a reliable travel trailer battery.
Pros
- 4000+ deep cycle lifespan
- Built-in BMS with temperature protection
- Lightweight and compact design
Cons
- Limited real-world user reviews
- May need additional batteries for larger power needs
- Requires regular maintenance if not in constant use
Travel Trailer Battery Buyer’s Guide
Battery Performance
Performance is another key aspect to consider when purchasing a travel trailer battery. RV batteries designed for deep cycling and lower power consumption will last longer and offer more reliable performance than engine starting batteries.
Capacity
The capacity of the travel trailer battery is measured in amp-hours (Ah). It represents the amount of energy the battery can hold, which determines its runtime. A higher capacity battery will allow you to power your travel trailer for a longer period. Common capacities range from 50Ah to 400Ah, with 12V 100Ah or 12V 125Ah batteries being suitable for most pull-behind campers.
Weight
The weight of a battery is important for maintaining balance and overall handling in your travel trailer. Lightweight batteries, such as lithium-ion ones, may be easier to install and manage, while traditional lead-acid batteries tend to be heavier.
Power
Travel trailer batteries provide a specific voltage, with most being either 6-volt or 12-volt. Connecting six-volt batteries in a sequence can achieve a 12-volt output, while connecting 12-volt batteries in parallel increases amperage (Ah).
Charging
A travel trailer battery should recharge efficiently, either via the inbuilt charger in your RV or through alternative means such as solar panels. Different types of batteries have varying maximum charge rates, so consider your electrical needs and preferred charging method.
Lifespan
A good travel trailer battery should have a long lifespan to provide a reliable power source for your needs. Factors like depth of discharge (DoD) and maintenance requirements impact a battery’s lifespan.
Energy Discharge
Different battery types have varying energy discharge rates. For instance, lead-acid batteries have a relatively low DoD, while SLA (AGM) and LiFePO4 batteries often have higher and more consistent discharge rates, providing more usable energy.
Design
The design of a travel trailer battery should consider durability, vibration resistance, and ease of installation. Heavy-duty, maintenance-free batteries can offer a hassle-free experience, while some popular options like the Odyssey PC680 Battery feature a compact and rugged design.
Amperage
Amperage determines the current flow a battery can provide. Higher amperage is essential for powering multiple appliances or devices simultaneously. Connecting 12-volt batteries in parallel can increase the amperage without changing the voltage.
Reserve Capacity
Reserve capacity refers to the amount of time a battery can provide power at a specific discharge rate before dropping to a minimum voltage threshold. A longer reserve capacity ensures your battery supplies power for extended periods when needed.
Cold Cranking Amps
Cold-cranking amps (CCA) measure how well a battery can start an engine in cold temperatures. Although not as crucial for travel trailer batteries as for vehicle starter batteries, CCA can provide an indication of a battery’s performance during extreme temperature changes.
Types of Travel Trailer Batteries
AGM Batteries
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are a popular choice for travel trailers due to their maintenance-free design and improved performance compared to traditional wet-cell batteries.
AGM batteries have a low self-discharge rate, making them suitable for long-term storage. Some popular AGM battery options include the Universal Power Group 12V and the Odyssey PC680.
Gel Batteries
Gel batteries use a gel electrolyte instead of a liquid electrolyte, which offers better resistance to vibrations and leaks.
However, gel batteries tend to be more expensive than AGM batteries and may require specific charging methods to prevent damage. Despite the higher price, their durability makes them a reliable option for travel trailer applications.
Sealed Batteries
Sealed batteries, also known as Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA) batteries, are an excellent option for travel trailers because they require no maintenance and are resistant to leaks.
These batteries come in both AGM and gel formats, offering versatility in terms of performance and price. Sealed batteries with 12 volts are commonly used in travel trailers.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are a high-performance option for travel trailers, offering significant advantages in terms of weight and charging efficiency.
The Battle Born LiFePO4 is a popular choice for lithium-ion RV batteries, providing fast charging times and high energy density. However, they tend to be more expensive than other battery types, possibly offset by their longer lifespan and lightweight design.
Deep Cycle Batteries
Deep Cycle batteries are designed to be discharged and recharged repeatedly, making them ideal for powering appliances and accessories in travel trailers. Both AGM and gel batteries can be classified as deep cycle batteries if they have a high cycle life rating.
Marine Batteries
Marine batteries can be a suitable option for travel trailers due to their durability and versatility. Marine batteries can be either deep cycle or starting (cranking) batteries, and they can handle the varied electrical demands of travel trailers.
However, it’s important to note that not all marine batteries are suitable for every travel trailer application, so make sure to select a battery that meets your specific needs.
Battery Maintenance and Safety
Proper maintenance and safety practices are essential for ensuring the longevity and reliability of your travel trailer battery.
Water Levels
Regular inspection and topping up of water levels are crucial for wet cell batteries. Wet cell batteries require distilled water to be added to them periodically. It is important to check the water levels every month, as insufficient water can lead to decreased performance and a possible failure of the battery.
For those seeking a lower maintenance option, maintenance-free or sealed batteries are available. These batteries do not require water top-ups, making them a more hands-off choice.
Size and Durability
Size and durability are essential factors to consider when choosing a travel trailer battery. A rugged, long-lasting battery with a suitable size for your specific travel trailer will ensure optimal performance and longevity.
When it comes to the AC and water pump requirements for your travel trailer, you’ll want to select a battery that can efficiently meet those demands.
Overcharging
Taking steps to avoid overcharging is essential for maintaining the battery’s safety and performance. A quality battery charger or solar charge controller with an effective charge profile can help protect the battery from overcharging and prevent damage.
Safety Features
Spill-proof and long-life batteries such as AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) and lithium-ion are popular choices for travel trailer enthusiasts due to their safety features and maintenance benefits. AGM batteries are sealed, preventing spills and requiring less maintenance compared to wet cell batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight and offer a long life with minimal maintenance needs.
Incorporating safety measures, such as using proper storage techniques and ventilating your battery compartment, is vital for preventing accidents and battery failure. Appropriate handling and storage of the battery, as well as the use of quality products like battery boxes, can contribute to overall safety and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal deep cycle battery for travel trailers?
The ideal deep-cycle battery for travel trailers depends on the specific power requirements and usage patterns of the individual. It’s crucial to choose a battery with sufficient amp hours (Ah), usually ranging from 100Ah to 125Ah, to meet the energy demands of your travel trailer.
Which RV battery performs well in cold weather?
In cold weather, AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries and lithium-ion batteries are known to perform well. AGM batteries have better freeze resistance than traditional lead-acid batteries, while lithium-ion batteries maintain efficiency and capacity in low-temperature conditions.
Always research the operating temperature range of a battery to ensure it will perform well in the climate you’ll be traveling in.
Which deep cycle RV battery is best for solar?
Solar charging is an increasingly popular method for keeping RV batteries charged, especially during extended trips. When choosing a deep-cycle RV battery for solar charging, consider factors like charge efficiency and compatibility with solar charge controllers.
Wrapping up the Best Travel Trailer Battery
Are you ready to hit the road with your travel trailer and all the charge you’ll need for a spectacular trip? Simply choose one of these top travel trailer batteries and off you go!
Considering a life on the road? Check out Full Time RV Living: A Comprehensive Guide to Life on the Road next!
- About the Author
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Hey there, I’m Ryan, the face behind Beyond The Tent.
With decades of camping experiences, my journey into the wilderness began on the rustic trails of a farm in southern Minnesota, where my childhood was filled with explorations and camping by a picturesque river.
My family’s adventures across the United States, from the majestic Colorado mountains to the serene national parks and the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area of Northern Minnesota have given me a broad perspective. With each journey, whether in state parks or private encampments, and through the homely comfort of our camping trailers, we’ve amassed a trove of stories, experiences, and invaluable camping wisdom.