As an RV owner and outdoor enthusiast, I know that having reliable power is essential for enjoying time off-grid. Having the best RV battery for your needs is essential because this is the heart of your camper’s electrical system.
Before diving deeper into the pros and cons of each, here are the best batteries for RV:
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the best RV battery, including different battery types, key factors to consider, and reviews of the top batteries on the market.
Best RV Battery Options
Here are the best batteries for RVs available right now:
1. Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Batteries
BEST OVERALL
Tired of RV batteries that leave you stranded? The Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery is the best RV battery for reliable power. With advanced lithium-ion technology, this USA-made battery is built to last 3000-5000 cycles (10+ years).
It has a Battery Management System (BMS) to prevent failures and charges fast while weighing just 29 lbs for easy mounting. With unmatched longevity and cost savings over lead-acid, it’s ideal for RVs.
The rugged outer case protects the lithium battery cells in extreme temperatures so you can count on off-grid power. Experienced RVers trust Battle Born for its exceptional quality. Avoid lead-acid hassles and upgrade to the best lithium RV battery.
With one of the longest warranties around, you can focus on adventures instead of worrying about dying batteries. The Battle Born LFP is simply the best battery for RV reliability and performance.
2. LiTime LiFePO4 Battery
BUDGET Option
Looking for lithium power on a budget? The LiTime LiFePO4 deep cycle battery delivers reliable off-grid power at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.
Built with quality lithium iron phosphate cells, this battery provides 100Ah in a compact size under 25 lbs. It has an integrated BMS for protection and charges faster than lead-acid.
While priced lower, the LiTime still offers up to 15,000 cycles at 50% discharge (4000 at 100%) and 10+ year lifespan with great longevity compared to lead-acid batteries. It’s an affordable lithium upgrade for RVs.
RVers on a budget praise this battery’s solid performance for solar, lighting, and appliances. It’s the value choice over heavy and maintenance-intensive lead-acid batteries.
If premium lithium RV batteries are out of reach, then the LiTime RV battery gives you reliable lithium power on a budget. Invest in worry-free off-grid power at a fair price.
3. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery
Best AGM Option
If lithium RV batteries are out of reach, the Renogy AGM deep cycle battery is a reliable and affordable lead acid option. This rugged, spill-proof battery can run lighting, pumps, and small appliances.
This sealed AGM battery provides 100Ah capacity in a compact size under 65 lbs. It charges faster than standard lead acid batteries and has low self-discharge.
While cheaper upfront than lithium, this AGM battery offers just 500-1000 cycles. It requires more maintenance and will need replacing sooner than lithium batteries.
This battery can work also for marine applications, however, in this case, I would suggest going for one of the best lithium marine batteries instead.
But for RVers on a tight budget, the Renogy AGM battery delivers solid performance at an accessible price point. It’s a cost-effective alternative to pricier lithium power.
Renogy offers the best AGM battery for RVs, providing reliable power on a budget. It keeps costs low and gets the job done.
4. EcoFlow DELTA Pro
Plug & Play
With 3600Wh capacity (3 x 100Ah lithium RV batteries), the EcoFlow DELTA Pro portable power station delivers reliable plug-and-play off-grid power for RVs and camping. Its robust 3.6kW inverter and X-Boost tech provide up to 4500W of AC output to run appliances. It also includes a 30A RV outlet, so you can simply connect this portable battery with your power cable and you are good to go!
The DELTA Pro can be charged rapidly also at EV charging stations. Its integrated app allows smart energy monitoring and switching between solar/grid power. At 300Ah, it offers an expansive capacity that can even run your RV air conditioning system.
This battery can be charged from:
- AC wall outlet
- Solar panels (it has an integrated MPPT controller)
- 12V cigarette lighter
- EV charging stations
Reviewers praise the DELTA Pro’s high power, expandable ecosystem, and seamless integration features. The all-in-one design provides a complete portable power solution.
While a bit heavy, the DELTA Pro shines for its high capacity, strong inverter, smart controls, rapid EV and solar recharging, and 30A RV outlet. For RV and off-grid use, it’s a top-tier lithium power station.
The other good thing is that it’s extremely easy to set up, so you will not need any professional installation. Just plug it in and you are ready to go!
For smaller needs, EcoFlow’s DELTA 2 Max is a more compact modular system. Overall, EcoFlow delivers robust lithium power stations for reliable plug & play off-grid energy.
With this, you have the benefit of a complete and modular portable battery system with an integrated inverter, controller, and all sorts of power outlets, including AC for your appliances!
5. Eco-Worthy LiFePO4 Battery
The Eco-Worthy LiFePO4 battery brings reliable lithium power to RVers on a tight budget. This battery provides 100AH capacity and integrated BMS protection at one of the most affordable price points.
Built with durable lithium iron phosphate cells, the Eco-Worthy battery offers up to 3000 cycles for exceptional longevity compared to lead acid. It charges faster, weighs just 22 lbs, and mounts in any direction.
While more affordable than premium lithium options, the Eco-Worthy still outlasts lead-acid batteries many times over. This is the value-focused lithium battery trusted by cost-conscious RVers.
RVers praise this battery’s solid off-grid performance at a very accessible price. It eliminates the weight, maintenance, and short life of lead acid without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, being so cheap, don’t expect a top-notch product and customer service. Despite this, Eco-Worthy is still a reasonably good battery option to consider.
If top-tier lithium RV batteries are too expensive for your budget, the Eco-Worthy 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 makes lithium power achievable. Get reliable, lightweight, and long-lasting energy on a budget.
How to Choose the Best RV Battery
With an overview of the different battery types, here are the key factors to consider when choosing an RV battery:
Your Power Needs
Calculate your typical daily power needs based on the appliances and electronics you run. For occasional dry camping, a single 100Ah battery may suffice. For extended stays off-grid, consider 200Ah or more of combined battery capacity.
Battery Type
The two main types of RV batteries are:
- Lithium (LiFePO4): More expensive upfront but last 5-10x longer. Lighter, more power dense, and maintenance-free.
- AGM Lead-Acid: Traditional option that is affordable but heavier with shorter lifespan of 2-5 years.
Dry Camping Duration
The longer you plan to boondock off-grid, the larger your battery bank should be. For multi-day dry camping, choose at least 200Ah total capacity.
Physical Size
Make sure the battery dimensions fit your RV’s battery compartment. Lithium batteries are smaller than AGMs for an equivalent capacity.
Weight
Heavier batteries like AGMs can put more strain on your RV frame. Lithium batteries weigh 50-75% less than AGMs.
Operating Temperature
If camping in extreme cold or heat, verify the battery’s operating temperature range. AGM and lithium batteries both work in wide temperature ranges.
Installation Orientation
AGM and lithium batteries can be installed upright or on their side. Flooded lead-acid require upright installation.
Battery Bank Voltage
Most RVs run on 12V DC power. Choose a 12V battery unless you plan to wire 6V batteries in series. Lithium batteries conveniently come in 12V models.
Recharge Capabilities
If relying heavily on solar energy, choose solar batteries with faster recharge rates to maximize energy collection. Lithium charges faster than lead-acid.
If you want to boost your solar energy production while visiting your favorite boondocking destinations, then you should look into portable solar panels for RV and solar generators for off-grid living.
Maintenance Requirements
Lithium batteries require no maintenance. AGM only needs occasional terminal cleaning. Flooded lead-acid requires fluid refills.
Warranty Length
Aim for at least a 2-5 year warranty. Lithium often has 10 years which matches the expected lifespan.
Budget
Lithium batteries tend cost 2-3x more than AGMs upfront. But lithiums have a lower lifetime cost due to 5-10x longer lifespan before replacement.
Conclusion
Investing in a quality RV battery means you can spend more time enjoying off-grid camping without worrying about running out of power for critical appliances and electronics.
While flooded lead-acid and AGM batteries are cheaper upfront, lithium RV batteries win out in almost every other category that matters for the typical RVer.
Lithium batteries are better suited for boondocking and dry camping because they are:
- Ultralight
- Compact
- Maintenance-free
- Able to deeply discharge
- Able to recharge faster
- Capable of 4-10X more cycles
- Reliable in extreme temperatures
- Overall, cost-effective long-term
While the best RV batteries have a steep upfront investment, I’m a firm believer that they pay for themselves in the long run – all while providing worry-free power for your off-grid adventures!
FAQ
How long do RV batteries last?
On average, flooded lead-acid batteries last 2-4 years, AGM lead-acid batteries last 4-6 years, and lithium batteries last 8-15 years. Proper maintenance and storage extends lifespan.
How many batteries do I need for my RV?
Most RVs can hold 2-4 batteries. For weekend camping, start with 200Ah total capacity. For full-time RV living, 400-600Ah is recommended to run high power appliances.
Can you mix and match different RV battery types?
It’s not recommended, as differing chemistry batteries discharge at different rates. Your best option is to install identical batteries of the same chemistry.
How low should you discharge an RV battery?
Lead-acid batteries should only be discharged 50% to avoid damage. Lithium batteries can tolerate discharge up to 80-90% repeatedly with no issues.
What are the best batteries for RVs?
The best RV batteries are deep cycle AGM or lithium batteries that can withstand repeated discharges and recharge. The top picks are Battle Born for lithium and Renogy for AGM batteries.
What is the best RV battery for winter camping?
Lithium batteries perform better than lead-acid batteries in cold weather. The best lithium RV batteries for winter are Battle Born and, in general, LiFePO4 batteries which can operate down to -4°F.
What is the best deep-cycle battery for RVs?
The best deep cycle batteries for RVs are lithium batteries, which allows to draw up to 90% of the battery (sometimes more). On the other hand, Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries usually allow for just 50% of usable capacity.
Can lithium RV batteries be left in the RV over winter?
Yes, lithium batteries can withstand freezing temperatures allowing them to be left in the RV over winter without damage. Just disconnect the terminals to prevent parasitic drain.
What are the most common RV batteries?
The most common RV batteries are flooded lead-acid, absorbed glass mat (AGM) lead-acid, and lithium batteries. Flooded lead-acid batteries are the most affordable but require maintenance.
