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Touring caravans are all about enjoying time away, but everyone has their own way of doing it. Some caravanners like the reassurance of an electric hook-up on site, while others enjoy the flexibility of touring off grid, without plugging in.
We’d love to know what works best for you. Vote in our new community poll and tell us whether you usually go caravanning with electric hook-up or off-grid. Your answer will help shape future tips, guides and practical advice for touring caravan owners here on the Caravan Guard blog.
Why many caravanners choose electric hook-up
Electric hook-up remains the go-to option for lots of touring caravan owners. Being plugged in offers reliable power for heating, lighting and appliances, less reliance on gas and leisure batteries and easier use of everyday items like kettles, microwaves and the fridge. Hook-up can be particularly useful during colder months too, or on longer stays where comfort and convenience are a priority.
Why some caravanners enjoy off-grid touring
Off-grid caravanning is becoming more popular particularly for caravanners who prefer more flexibility over where they stay, or who want a quieter, simpler touring experience and less dependence on busy campsites. An off grid pitch without electric hookup is often cheaper too. With the right setup and a bit of planning, off-grid caravanning can still be comfortable and enjoyable.
Have your say in the poll by choosing one of the options below, and as always, feel free to share your comments.
We’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts on hook up or off grid caravanning.
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I have four batteries, split into two and weight balanced, plus 170W of solar on half [the inverter half] with a Victron MPPT; also a Victron 25A charger on the ‘normal’ bank (185Ah) and a cheapo 20A / 2kW charger / inverter (on the 150Ah bank). I tow with a 2011 Renault Grand Espace 175 DERV.
The system copes quite well, but managing power consumption when off-grid requires planning and load-shedding management. All lighting is (obviously!) LED.
I can easily boil a few kettles (my 650W camping kettle) and run my two-slice toaster together, but I’d normally use the whistler on the gas hob.
The inverter bank is reserved for three dedicated outlets, and supports a little ice maker and my Tower Vortx 1200W airfryer for a couple of brekkies.
If I have a nice sunny day the system recovers very well.
I have 2 batteries available and solar panels for each. These cope (most of the time!). Gives flexibility and simpler, (cheaper), places.