Renogy 100/200W 12V N-Type Portable Solar Panel Suitcase Kit with 20A PWM Controller
A fixed roof panel only ever sees the sun the van is pointed at. Renogy's portable suitcase is the workaround — a folding panel you can carry off to a sunny patch of ground while the van itself sits in the shade of a tree, which matters more than roof-panel wattage on a lot of the sites worth camping at.
Key features
- N-Type monocrystalline cells rated at 25% efficiency, with under 0.4% annual degradation
- Durable tempered glass surface for structural strength and weather resistance
- Folding suitcase design with adjustable kickstands for angling toward the sun
- Bundled 20A PWM charge controller, compatible with multiple battery chemistries
- Available in 100W and 200W configurations
RV use case
This suits owners who regularly camp under trees or in valleys where the van's fixed roof panel is partly or fully shaded, and who want a second, independently-aimable power source rather than relocating the whole rig to chase sun. It's also a sensible backup for a roof array that's already at capacity.
Pros
- Fully portable and independently angled, regardless of which way the van is parked
- N-Type cells hold their efficiency better in heat than older polycrystalline panels
- Arrives as a complete kit — panel, controller and cabling, ready to connect
Cons
- The bundled PWM controller is less efficient than an MPPT unit, so it extracts less from the panel on cool or overcast days
- The folding glass face needs reasonably careful handling when packing away
- Still needs manual repositioning through the day to track the sun, unlike a fixed array
Best for
Owners who camp in shaded or tree-covered sites where a roof-mounted panel underperforms, or anyone wanting backup solar capacity without a roof-mount installation.
Verdict
A well-built, genuinely portable way to add solar independent of the van's own roof space and orientation — the PWM controller is the one real compromise against the convenience on offer.
Renogy 100/200W 12V N-Type Portable Solar Panel Suitcase Kit
Folded suitcase dimensions and portable carry design
Compatible battery types — gel, sealed, lithium and flooded
The bundled 20A PWM charge controller and cabling
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Meta title: Renogy Portable Solar Suitcase Review — Off-Grid Power for RVs
Meta description: A review of the Renogy 100/200W N-Type portable solar suitcase kit — how it compares to a fixed roof panel and who it actually suits.
Excerpt: Portable, foldable solar that goes wherever the sun is — even when the van can't.
Thetford Aqua Kem Green Concentrated
Every cassette or portable toilet needs something in the tank, and Aqua Kem Green is Thetford's septic-safe answer — a step away from the older blue, formaldehyde-based chemical, aimed at owners who don't want to think twice about where they're allowed to empty.
Key features
- Septic tank safe, ISO 11734 certified for biodegradability
- Liquefies waste for easier, cleaner emptying
- Reduces gas build-up and controls odour
- Concentrated formula — 75ml dose per 20L waste tank plus 2-3L water, lasting up to 4 days per dose
- Available in 750ml and 1L bottles
RV use case
This suits owners who tour through areas where dump points feed into septic systems, or who'd simply rather not run a formaldehyde-based chemical through a portable toilet on principle. It's a straightforward swap-in for anyone currently using traditional Aqua Kem Blue.
Pros
- Septic-safe formula widens where it's actually appropriate to empty the tank
- Concentrated dosing means a single bottle covers a reasonable stretch of touring
- Widely stocked at caravan and camping retailers, easy to keep topped up on the road
Cons
- Some users find odour control slightly less aggressive in hot weather compared to the older formaldehyde-based Blue
- Dosing needs to be accurate — under-dosing noticeably reduces performance
- Still a consumable running cost, unlike a one-off hardware purchase
Best for
Owners who need or prefer a septic-safe toilet chemical, particularly those touring through regions where septic-only dump points are common.
Verdict
A sensible, widely available default for a cassette or portable toilet — the septic-safe formula is the whole reason to choose it over the traditional Blue.
Thetford Aqua Kem Green Concentrated bottle
Diagram showing where Thetford toilet chemicals are used in the system
Chemical being added to a cassette toilet waste tank
Concentrated formula shown next to the original Aqua Kem Green
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Meta title: Thetford Aqua Kem Green Review — Septic-Safe Toilet Chemical for RVs
Meta description: A review of Thetford's Aqua Kem Green concentrated toilet chemical — septic safety, dosing, odour control and how it compares to traditional Blue.
Excerpt: A septic-safe toilet chemical for owners who'd rather not think twice about where they empty.
TST 507 Series Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (4 Cap Sensors & Colour Display)
A slow leak on tow is rarely dramatic until it suddenly is. The TST 507 puts a real-time number on every tyre so a problem shows up on the display long before it shows up as a thump on the side of the road.
Key features
- 3.5-inch rechargeable colour display with real-time pressure and temperature per tyre
- Audible and visual alerts for high and low pressure, with user-adjustable thresholds
- Expandable to monitor up to 110 tyres across multiple trailers
- Cap-sensor or flow-thru sensor options, depending on valve stem type
RV use case
This suits anyone towing a caravan who wants an early warning of a slow leak or an overheating tyre, particularly on longer or more remote trips where a roadside tyre failure is a bigger inconvenience than it would be closer to home.
Pros
- Catches slow leaks well before they become visible or become a blowout
- Expandable enough to cover the tow vehicle, caravan, and a second trailer if needed
- Cap-sensor installation is straightforward, with no in-tyre work required
Cons
- Cap sensors are exposed at servos and rest stops, and worth keeping an eye on
- Sensor batteries need periodic replacement
- Display itself needs charging like any other rechargeable device, which is one more thing to remember
Best for
Anyone regularly towing a caravan on longer trips, especially remote or outback travel where a tyre failure carries more consequence.
Verdict
Cheap insurance against an expensive problem — a slow leak caught early on the display is a blowout avoided on the highway.
TST 507 Series TPMS colour display and cap sensors
Close-up of the colour display showing pressure and temperature readouts
Close-up of the cap sensors and specifications
Retail packaging box
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Meta title: TST 507 TPMS Review — Tyre Pressure Monitoring for Caravans
Meta description: A review of the TST 507 tyre pressure monitoring system — sensor options, display features and why it matters for caravan towing.
Excerpt: Real-time tyre pressure and temperature, so a slow leak shows up on the display, not on the roadside.
Cel-Fi GO ROAM (R41) Mobile Signal Booster
A basic antenna amplifies whatever signal is already there, weak or not. The Cel-Fi GO ROAM does more than that — it's tuned to each carrier's network individually, which is the difference between a booster that helps and one that just adds noise.
Key features
- 4th-generation Nextivity IntelliBoost chip
- Supports 3G, 4G and 5G across Telstra, Optus and Vodafone bands (700L/850/900/1800/2100/2600MHz)
- Automatic best-band selection based on what's available in the area
- Replacement model for the earlier Cel-Fi GO G31
RV use case
This suits travellers heading into fringe-reception country who rely on a phone signal for work, safety check-ins or navigation, and who've found a basic antenna doesn't meaningfully improve a marginal signal.
Pros
- Carrier-specific tuning extracts more usable signal than a generic booster
- Automatic band selection removes the need to manually tune anything
- Covers all three major Australian networks in one unit
Cons
- Still needs some usable signal to work with — it can't create coverage where there's genuinely none
- The multi-carrier ROAM version costs more than a single-carrier Cel-Fi unit
- Best results need a roof-mounted external antenna, which is an extra install step beyond the booster itself
Best for
Owners who spend real time at the edge of mobile coverage and need a working phone signal more often than an occasional weekend tourer would.
Verdict
Won't perform miracles in a genuine dead zone, but for marginal reception this is the most effective single upgrade available, and noticeably smarter than a plain antenna booster.
Cel-Fi GO ROAM (R41) signal booster unit
Side profile close-up showing the heat sink and port connections
Underside view showing the model label and USB port
External antenna mounted on the vehicle
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Meta title: Cel-Fi GO ROAM R41 Review — Mobile Signal Booster for Caravans
Meta description: A review of the Cel-Fi GO ROAM R41 mobile signal booster — carrier coverage, real-world limitations and who actually needs one.
Excerpt: Carrier-tuned signal boosting for the fringe-reception spots a basic antenna can't help with.
Puretec CR20 Caravan & RV Inline Water Filter
Not every tap at a caravan park or bore tastes the way you'd want it to. The CR20 sits inline while filling the tank, and does the one job it's built for without adding any plumbing to the van itself.
Key features
- SilverPlus antibacterial carbon filtration
- 1 micron filter rating
- 20 litres per minute flow rate
- Standard 1/2" garden hose fittings
- Operating range of 2-38°C
- Reduces sediment, rust, chlorine, taste, odour and organic chemicals
RV use case
This suits owners filling the onboard tank from a mix of known and unknown water sources — caravan park taps, shared bore water, or remote fill points — who want cleaner-tasting water without installing a whole-of-van filtration system.
Pros
- 20LPM flow rate doesn't noticeably slow down filling the tank
- Simple garden-hose fitting needs no plumbing changes
- Antibacterial filter media inhibits growth inside the filter between uses
Cons
- Not a substitute for proper water purification — it's a taste, odour and sediment filter, not a biological safety barrier on its own
- Cartridge needs periodic replacement to keep performing
- Inline only, so it doesn't do anything for water already sitting in the tank
Best for
Owners regularly filling up from a mix of trusted and untrusted taps who want better-tasting water without a bigger filtration install.
Verdict
A cheap, simple upgrade that does exactly the one job it's designed for — just don't mistake it for full water purification.
Puretec CR20 Caravan & RV Inline Water Filter
Product dimensions and WaterMark certification
Retail packaging box
Silver+ antibacterial filtration technology
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Meta title: Puretec CR20 Review — Inline Water Filter for Caravans
Meta description: A review of the Puretec CR20 inline caravan and RV water filter — flow rate, filtration and what it doesn't do.
Excerpt: Cleaner-tasting tank water from unfamiliar taps, without adding plumbing to the van.
Sphere 12V 3.5kg Automatic Mini Washing Machine
A washing machine that needs an inverter or a powered site isn't much use free camping. Sphere's 12V unit runs straight off the house battery, no conversion required, which is the whole point for owners who camp off-grid for stretches at a time.
Key features
- Fully automatic 12V DC operation, no inverter required
- 3.5kg load capacity
- Pre-fitted Anderson plug
- Draws roughly 3.3A during a wash cycle
RV use case
This suits off-grid or free-camping owners who want to do a load of washing without needing a powered site, a generator, or running an inverter just to power a washing machine.
Pros
- Genuinely off-grid capable — no inverter or generator required to run it
- Anderson plug means it connects straight into an existing 12V system
- Compact enough to pack away when not in use
Cons
- 3.5kg is a small load — several washes needed to get through a family's laundry
- Each wash cycle draws on the battery bank, worth factoring into the day's power budget
- No dryer function, so a line or rack is still needed afterward
Best for
Solo travellers or couples doing frequent small washes off-grid, rather than families needing full-size laundry capacity.
Verdict
A sensible, low-draw way to do laundry off-grid — just be realistic about the load size before relying on it as the only washing solution on board.
Sphere 12V 3.5kg Automatic Mini Washing Machine
12V-powered operation, no inverter required
Another angled view of the machine and control panel
Top view with the lid open, showing the wash drum
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Meta title: Sphere 12V Washing Machine Review — Off-Grid Laundry for Caravans
Meta description: A review of the Sphere 12V 3.5kg automatic mini washing machine — power draw, load capacity and who it actually suits.
Excerpt: Laundry that runs straight off the house battery — no inverter, no powered site required.
Truma LevelCheck LPG Gas Cylinder Level Indicator
Guessing a gas bottle's level by weight or by shaking it is imprecise at best. Truma's LevelCheck uses ultrasound instead, giving a genuine point-in-time reading without disconnecting the cylinder or fitting anything permanently.
Key features
- Ultrasonic measurement technology
- Pressed horizontally against the cylinder wall to take a reading
- Green LED indicates gas present at that point, red indicates empty at that point
- Fits standard steel and aluminium cylinders from 200-350mm diameter
- No fitting or gas connection required
RV use case
This suits owners who want a quick, no-install way to check how much gas is actually left in a bottle before a big trip, rather than guessing or waiting to find out mid-cook.
Pros
- No permanent fitting needed — works on any compatible bottle, borrowed or owned
- Ultrasonic method is meaningfully more precise than weight-guessing or shaking the bottle
- Quick to use before heading off on a trip
Cons
- Gives a reading at the point held against the cylinder, not a continuous percentage — a few checks at different heights are needed for a full picture
- Doesn't work outside the 200-350mm cylinder diameter range
- Runs on its own battery, one more thing to keep charged or replaced
Best for
Owners who want a fast, no-install spot-check on gas levels before a trip, rather than a permanently wired gauge system.
Verdict
A simple, genuinely useful spot-check tool — not a permanent gauge, but it does its one job well and takes the guesswork out of a gas bottle's remaining level.
Truma LevelCheck gas cylinder level indicator
Device held against a gas cylinder to take a reading
Retail packaging
Diagram illustrating how the ultrasonic reading works
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Meta title: Truma LevelCheck Review — LPG Gas Cylinder Level Indicator
Meta description: A review of the Truma LevelCheck gas cylinder level indicator — how the ultrasonic reading works and what it doesn't do.
Excerpt: An ultrasonic spot-check for gas levels — no fitting, no guessing by weight.
Aussie Traveller RV Induction Cooktop (2300W)
Induction heats the pan directly rather than the air around it, which is the difference owners notice first when they switch over from gas — faster boiling, no naked flame, and no LPG needed for cooking at all.
Key features
- Dual cooking zones — 180mm and 160mm, each up to 1.8kW
- 9 heat levels plus a boost mode
- 99-minute timer, touch control panel, child safety lock and overheat protection
- Micro-crystalline scratch-resistant glass surface
- Benchtop or under-bench mount
- 2300W model draws 10A at 230V (a 3300W/15A model is also available)
RV use case
This suits owners with reliable 230V power — a powered site or a solid inverter and battery setup — who want to reduce or replace gas cooking with something faster and easier to clean.
Pros
- Heats cookware directly, noticeably faster than gas for boiling or searing
- No naked flame and no LPG required for cooking
- Easy-to-clean glass surface with sensor touch controls
Cons
- Only works with magnetic-base cookware — cast iron, magnetic stainless, or a bonded-base pan — a real consideration if the existing cookware isn't compatible
- The 2300W model draws a full 10A continuous, worth checking against the van's circuit and power source before relying on it off-grid
- Needs a genuinely capable power source to run at all — mains or a strong inverter setup
Best for
Owners with reliable 230V power who want a faster, cleaner cooking experience and are willing to check cookware compatibility first.
Verdict
A genuinely better cooking experience than gas where the power supply can support it — check cookware compatibility and available amps before switching over.
Aussie Traveller RV Induction Cooktop (2300W)
Full view of the cooktop and detachable power cord
Cast iron cookware heating on both cooktop zones
Cast iron pan in use on the cooktop
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Meta title: Aussie Traveller RV Induction Cooktop Review — Caravan Cooking
Meta description: A review of the Aussie Traveller RV Induction Cooktop — power draw, cookware compatibility and how it compares to gas.
Excerpt: Faster, flame-free cooking for caravans — provided the power supply and cookware can keep up.
ARB CKMTA12 Twin Air Compressor
Airing down for a beach or unsealed track is the easy half of the job — getting all four tyres back to road pressure afterward is where a weak compressor turns a five-minute job into twenty. The CKMTA12 is ARB's answer to that second half.
Key features
- Twin-motor design, 174 L/min maximum airflow
- 56A maximum current draw
- Pressure-switch controlled manifold, 135-150psi
- Sealed housing rated for dust and moisture resistance
- Heavy-duty cylindrical roller bearings
- Engineered and dyno-tested in Australia, 2-year warranty
RV use case
This suits owners who regularly air down for beach driving, unsealed roads or remote touring and want reinflation speed to match — rather than standing at each wheel for several minutes with a slow single-motor unit.
Pros
- Genuinely high airflow for a 12V unit, noticeably faster reinflation than a basic single-motor compressor
- Sealed, dust and moisture-resistant construction suits harsh touring conditions
- Australian-engineered and tested, backed by a real warranty
Cons
- 56A draw is substantial — needs properly rated wiring and a healthy battery, not a casual plug-in accessory
- Twin-motor design has a larger mounting footprint than a basic single compressor
- This is a genuine 4WD-grade unit — more capability, and cost, than an occasional tourer strictly needs
Best for
Owners regularly airing down and back up for unsealed roads, beach driving or remote touring, who want compressor speed that matches a set of rapid deflators on the way back up.
Verdict
More compressor than a once-a-year tourer needs, but for regular unsealed-road travel it's a serious, properly engineered upgrade that earns its keep.
ARB CKMTA12 Twin Air Compressor
Underside view showing the cooling fan and electrical connectors
Wiring harness and control switch included with the kit
Full kit contents — compressor, harness, switch and mounting hardware
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Meta title: ARB CKMTA12 Review — Twin Air Compressor for RVs and 4WDs
Meta description: A review of the ARB CKMTA12 twin air compressor — airflow, install requirements and who genuinely needs this much compressor.
Excerpt: Serious reinflation speed for regular unsealed-road travel — and the wiring it demands to match.
Staun Tyre Deflators (Off-Road, 6-30 PSI)
Airing down four tyres to an even, repeatable pressure by eye and a gauge is tedious and easy to get wrong. Staun's deflators remove the guesswork entirely — screw them on, walk away, and every tyre stops at the same preset pressure on its own.
Key features
- Automatic preset deflation, factory set to 18psi, adjustable across a 6-30psi range
- Accurate to within 1psi
- Adjustment of roughly 3psi per half turn, 6psi per full turn of the cap
- Deflates from 35psi to 18psi in around 3-4 minutes per tyre
- Set of 4 with a leather storage pouch
- Hand-assembled and tested in Australia from brass components
RV use case
This suits owners airing down a tow vehicle or 4WD's tyres before unsealed roads or beach driving, who want all four tyres to land on the same pressure without babysitting a gauge at each valve.
Pros
- Screw on and walk away — all four tyres deflate to the same preset pressure unattended
- Genuinely fast for a passive, non-electric deflator
- Australian-made from brass, built for the conditions they're designed to handle
Cons
- Deflation only — still needs a compressor, like the ARB CKMTA12, for the return trip back to road pressure
- Preset pressure needs to be dialled in correctly before use, an easy step to forget
- Small parts that are easy to misplace without the included pouch
Best for
Owners who regularly air down for beach or outback tracks and want a consistent, hands-off way to do it across all four tyres at once.
Verdict
About as close to set-and-forget as tyre deflation gets — pair it with a decent compressor and airing down stops being a chore.
Staun Tyre Deflators, set of 4 with leather pouch
Close-up of the adjustment cap and lock ring
Deflator fitted to a tyre valve, airing down unattended
Diagram showing the adjusting cap, lock ring and finger grip
Backend SEO & metadata (not shown to site visitors — for CMS/publishing use)
Meta title: Staun Tyre Deflators Review — Automatic Tyre Deflation for Towing
Meta description: A review of Staun's automatic tyre deflators — accuracy, speed and how they fit into an airing-down routine for towing and 4WDing.
Excerpt: Set-and-forget tyre deflation, accurate to within 1psi, across all four tyres at once.
Redarc Manager30 Battery Management System
Most RV electrical headaches come down to one thing: too many separate boxes doing jobs that don't talk to each other. The Manager30 is Redarc's answer — one unit that replaces the DC-DC charger, solar regulator, battery isolator and monitor you'd otherwise be wiring in individually, and it's become close to a default recommendation for anyone building a serious 12V system from scratch.
Key features
- 30A DC-DC (alternator) charging with a wide 9–32V input range
- Built-in MPPT solar regulator, so no separate solar controller is needed
- 240V mains/AC charging input (560W rated) for powered-site or generator charging
- Compatible with lead-acid, AGM, gel, calcium and lithium (LiFePO4) battery chemistries
- Pairs with Redarc's RedVision colour display for state-of-charge, current draw and time-remaining readouts
RV use case
This is a build-once unit for anyone setting up an auxiliary battery system in a motorhome, camper or caravan — particularly if you're chasing three charge sources (vehicle alternator, solar, mains) without a wall of separate hardware. Because it handles the isolator function too, it removes one more box from the wiring diagram, which matters in vans and caravans where under-bed or under-seat space is already tight.
Pros
- Genuinely consolidates DC-DC charging, solar regulation and isolation into one footprint
- Wide input voltage range suits both older alternators and modern smart-charging vehicles
- Lithium-compatible out of the box, so it doesn't need replacing if you upgrade your battery chemistry later
Cons
- Upfront cost is significant next to buying a basic DC-DC charger alone
- The RedVision display is sold separately, which adds to the real total spend
- Installation is a job for someone comfortable with 12V wiring, not a plug-and-play retrofit
Best for
Owners building or rewiring a full off-grid electrical system — new caravan fit-outs, van conversions, or anyone tired of a tangle of separate chargers and controllers under the bed.
Verdict
If you're wiring a system from the ground up, the Manager30 earns its price by removing complexity rather than adding a feature. It's not the cheapest way to charge a battery, but it's one of the tidiest ways to charge, regulate and monitor three power sources with a single unit and a single set of settings to manage.
Redarc Manager30 Battery Management System
Close-up of the terminal block and CAN connection, unit mounted and wired
Manager30 paired with the RedVision colour display
Full kit contents: unit, RedVision display, shunt and wiring accessories
Backend SEO & metadata (not shown to site visitors — for CMS/publishing use)
Meta title: Redarc Manager30 Review — All-in-One RV Battery Management
Meta description: An honest look at the Redarc Manager30 BMS — how it consolidates DC-DC, solar and AC charging for Australian caravans and motorhomes, and who it's really built for.
Excerpt: One box, three charge sources — the Manager30 trims the wiring loom down to size for serious off-grid builds.
Victron Energy MultiPlus-II 12/3000/230-50 Inverter/Charger
There's a reason the MultiPlus-II shows up so often in higher-end van builds and caravan refits: it isn't just an inverter, and it isn't just a charger — it's both, running through the same transfer switch, so the system decides automatically whether you're running off battery or mains without you touching a thing.
Key features
- 2400W continuous output (3000VA), with peak surge capacity to 5500W for motor start-up loads
- Integrated 230V AC charger rated up to 120A
- Automatic 50A transfer switch between mains/generator power and inverter power
- VE.Bus communication, allowing multiple units to be paralleled for higher output or split-phase setups
- IP22-rated enclosure
RV use case
This is the unit for owners running genuine household loads off-grid — induction cooktops, microwaves, coffee machines, power tools — not just charging phones and running LED lights. Because the transfer switch is automatic, plugging into a powered site or firing up a generator doesn't require you to flick anything over manually; the MultiPlus-II handles the switchover and starts charging the house battery at the same time.
Pros
- Handles serious continuous loads, not just light-duty 12V appliances
- Combines inverter, charger and transfer switch — fewer separate components to install and wire
- Well-documented Bluetooth app (VictronConnect) for monitoring and configuration
Cons
- Physically large and heavy at close to 19kg — needs a properly planned mounting position
- Overkill for a simple setup that only needs to run lighting and charge a phone
- Cost puts it firmly in the "serious build" category rather than a budget upgrade
Best for
Motorhome and caravan owners wanting near-home power off-grid — full kitchens, air conditioning start-up loads, or anyone building a van that needs to run like a small house on wheels.
Verdict
It's not a budget buy, and it's not meant to be — the MultiPlus-II is for owners who've decided they want real appliances working off battery, not just the basics. Where it earns its keep is in how little you have to think about it day to day: it switches, it charges, it just runs.
Victron Energy MultiPlus-II 12/3000/230-50 Inverter/Charger
Close-up of AC input/output terminals
Detail view of the AC transfer switch and battery terminals
Simplified diagram of a solar, alternator and mains charging setup
Backend SEO & metadata (not shown to site visitors — for CMS/publishing use)
Meta title: Victron MultiPlus-II Review — Inverter/Charger for RV Power
Meta description: How the Victron MultiPlus-II 12/3000 handles real household loads off-grid, and why its automatic transfer switch matters for Australian motorhome and caravan owners.
Excerpt: Inverter, charger and transfer switch in one — built for owners who want proper appliances running off-grid.
Enerdrive ePOWER B-TEC Ultra 200Ah Lithium Battery
Lithium conversions are one of the most common upgrades in Australian RVs right now, and Enerdrive's B-TEC Ultra range is one of the more established local options — an aluminium-cased LiFePO4 battery built with an internal BMS and, on the Ultra spec, an IP67-rated case for the inevitable knocks and moisture that come with life under a caravan floor.
Key features
- 200Ah capacity at 12.8V nominal — a genuine deep-cycle replacement for a pair of large AGMs
- Internal battery management system with RS485 communication port
- IP67-rated case on the Ultra G3 revision
- Bluetooth monitoring via companion app
- Rated to roughly 2,000 cycles at 80% depth of discharge
RV use case
At 485×170×245mm and around 25kg, it's a genuine drop-in replacement footprint for many existing dual-AGM setups, which is exactly why it's popular for retrofits rather than just new builds. The usable capacity advantage over AGM is the real draw here — you get close to the full 200Ah in practice, rather than the roughly-half you'd plan around with lead-acid, which changes how many days you can realistically sit off-grid before needing to run the vehicle or a generator.
Pros
- Strong usable capacity relative to size and weight compared with AGM
- IP67 case rating suits the reality of underslung or exposed battery bays
- Bluetooth app monitoring removes the guesswork on state of charge
Cons
- Requires a lithium-compatible charging system — an old AGM-only charger won't get the best from it
- Upfront cost is well above an equivalent-capacity AGM pair
- Cold-weather charging below the chemistry's rated minimum needs the same care as any LiFePO4 battery
Best for
Owners upgrading an existing dual-battery AGM setup who want more usable amp-hours in a similar space, or anyone building a new off-grid system around a single high-capacity battery rather than several smaller ones.
Verdict
It's a straightforward, well-specified lithium upgrade rather than a flashy one — the kind of battery you install once and stop thinking about, provided the rest of your charging system (DC-DC charger, solar regulator) is already lithium-compatible or upgraded alongside it.
Enerdrive ePOWER B-TEC Ultra 200Ah Lithium Battery
Close-up of the specification and compliance label
Top view showing the on/off switch, LED indicator and terminals
Bluetooth app showing state of charge
Backend SEO & metadata (not shown to site visitors — for CMS/publishing use)
Meta title: Enerdrive B-TEC Ultra 200Ah Review — Lithium Battery for RVs
Meta description: A practical review of the Enerdrive ePOWER B-TEC Ultra 200Ah lithium battery — usable capacity, install fit, and whether it suits your caravan or motorhome upgrade.
Excerpt: A drop-in lithium upgrade with real usable capacity gains over AGM, built for retrofits as much as new fit-outs.
Bluetti AC200L Portable Power Station
Not everyone wants to cut into their van's wiring loom to get off-grid power, and that's the gap portable power stations like the AC200L fill — a self-contained battery, inverter and charge controller in one case that you can carry, charge and swap between vehicles without an installer.
Key features
- Large LiFePO4 capacity built for extended off-grid runtime, with a rated cycle life in the thousands
- Pure sine wave inverter output suitable for sensitive electronics
- Multiple charge inputs — solar, AC wall power and car charging — so it can top up however's available on the day
- Wide array of output ports, including a dedicated 12V/30A RV-style outlet
- Bluetooth app control and monitoring
RV use case
This suits owners who want serious off-grid capacity without a permanent install — think camper trailer owners, tent-based tourers, or caravan owners who want a backup power source they can also use away from the van entirely. Being portable cuts both ways: it's genuinely flexible, but it also occupies significant storage space and needs a dedicated spot to live when not in use, which is worth planning for before you buy rather than after.
Pros
- No installation required — genuinely portable and usable across multiple vehicles or camp setups
- Flexible charging options mean it's rarely stranded with an empty battery
- Pure sine output suits laptops and sensitive electronics without compatibility concerns
Cons
- Bulky and heavy compared with a fixed installed battery of similar capacity
- Solar input is capped, so full-speed solar recharging needs the right panel combination
- Doesn't integrate with a vehicle's existing 12V wiring the way an installed system does
Best for
Owners who want flexible, no-install power — camper trailer and tent-based travellers, or caravan owners who want a portable backup they can also use for home outages or off-van activities.
Verdict
The trade-off with any portable power station is space and weight for flexibility, and the AC200L leans hard into that trade in a good way — strong capacity, sensible charging options, and none of the wiring commitment of a built-in system.
Bluetti AC200L Portable Power Station
Bluetti AC200L Portable Power Station
Angled view showing the output panel and display
Close-up of the display panel
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Meta title: Bluetti AC200L Review — Portable Power Station for RV Travel
Meta description: Does the Bluetti AC200L portable power station suit Australian caravan and camper trailer travel? A look at capacity, charging flexibility and real-world fit.
Excerpt: No wiring, no install — just a genuinely flexible power source for camper trailers, tents and backup power.
Dometic CFX3 55 Powered Portable Fridge/Freezer
Compressor fridges changed the way Australians travel off-grid, and the CFX3 range is Dometic's current flagship expression of that — a 53-litre compressor fridge/freezer built to run efficiently on 12V for days at a time, rather than the icebox-with-a-plug feel of older 12V coolers.
Key features
- 53-litre (approximately 83-can) capacity
- Cools to freezer temperatures — down to around -7°C — without needing ice
- Runs on 12/24V DC or 100–240V AC, and is solar-compatible
- Dimensions of roughly 720×480×455mm
- Bluetooth/app connectivity standard across the CFX3 range for remote temperature monitoring
RV use case
This is the fridge for owners doing genuine multi-day off-grid trips where reliable food storage matters more than upfront cost. Because it's a compressor unit rather than a thermoelectric cooler, it holds temperature properly in Australian summer heat, and being able to run it from solar during the day takes real pressure off the house battery. Actual power draw varies with ambient temperature and your set point, so it's worth sizing your battery and solar around worst-case summer conditions rather than a mild day.
Pros
- Genuine freezer capability, not just a cooler — useful for longer trips
- Solid capacity for the footprint, suiting a small family or extended touring couple
- App monitoring means you can check and adjust temperature without opening the lid
Cons
- Power draw increases meaningfully in hot conditions — plan battery capacity accordingly
- Weight and size need a proper tie-down point, not just a spot on the floor
- Premium pricing compared with basic thermoelectric coolers
Best for
Owners doing extended off-grid touring where reliable refrigeration — and genuine freezer capacity — matters, particularly in hot Australian conditions.
Verdict
It's not the cheapest way to keep food cold, but for serious off-grid travel the CFX3 55 does the one job that actually matters — holding temperature reliably, day after day, regardless of what the weather's doing outside.
Dometic CFX3 55 Powered Portable Fridge/Freezer
Open view showing the interior storage baskets
Interior view
Close-up of the carry handle, vents and AC/DC input
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Meta title: Dometic CFX3 55 Review — 12V Compressor Fridge for RVs
Meta description: A real-world look at the Dometic CFX3 55 compressor fridge/freezer — capacity, power draw and whether it suits Australian off-grid touring.
Excerpt: A proper compressor fridge with genuine freezer capability, built for multi-day off-grid trips in Australian heat.
Fiamma F45s Awning
An awning is one of those additions that changes how you actually use your van or caravan day to day — shade, weather cover, and a bit of extra "outdoor room" — and the F45s is Fiamma's long-running manual wind-out option, built around an all-metal low-profile case that keeps the roofline clean when it's packed away.
Key features
- Manual wind-out operation with a redesigned crank mechanism
- Low-profile all-metal case available in black, polar white or titanium silver
- Sold across five length options, from roughly 2.6m to 4.5m canopy width
- Extends up to 2.5m depending on model
- Weight varies by size, generally in the 18–22kg range
RV use case
Because it's manual rather than electric, there's less to go wrong long-term — no motor, no switch wiring, just a wind arm and a case. That trade-off suits owners who'd rather have a simple mechanical system they can service themselves than an electric awning with a control module buried somewhere in the wiring. Sizing matters here: measure your van's usable side length carefully before choosing between the five available lengths, since an oversized awning changes how the case sits relative to doors and vents.
Pros
- Simple manual mechanism with fewer failure points than electric alternatives
- Low-profile case keeps the roofline tidy and reduces wind resistance while travelling
- Range of lengths and case colours to match different van sizes and finishes
Cons
- Manual winding takes a bit more physical effort than an electric equivalent
- Getting the length right matters — the wrong size can crowd doors or roof vents
- Like any wind-out awning, needs to be wound in properly before driving off in wind
Best for
Owners who want a dependable, low-maintenance manual awning without the added complexity and cost of an electric system.
Verdict
The F45s isn't trying to reinvent the wind-out awning — it's a well-executed, simple version of one, and for owners who'd rather crank a handle than troubleshoot a motor, that simplicity is the whole appeal.
Fiamma F45s Awning
Close-up of the awning casing and roof mounting
Underside view of the F45s extended, with support pole
Dimensions and size chart for the F45s range
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Meta title: Fiamma F45s Awning Review — Manual Awning for Caravans
Meta description: A hands-on look at the Fiamma F45s manual awning — sizing, install considerations and how it compares to electric alternatives for Australian tourers.
Excerpt: A simple, low-profile manual awning built around fewer failure points than an electric equivalent.
Projecta IDC25 Intelli-Charge DC to DC Charger
Modern vehicles with smart alternators have made basic split-charge systems unreliable, which is exactly the problem DC-DC chargers like the IDC25 were built to solve — a proper multi-stage charger that manages the auxiliary battery regardless of what the vehicle's alternator is doing.
Key features
- 25A output across an 11–32V input range, or 20A at 9–11V input
- Integrated MPPT solar input, accepting up to 28V/25A from a solar panel
- 3-stage charging profile suited to wet, calcium, AGM and gel batteries in 75–300Ah banks
- IP67-rated housing
- Maintains full charge output up to 75°C ambient, and continues operating to 90°C
RV use case
This suits owners who've either upgraded to a smart-alternator tow vehicle or simply want a properly regulated charge to their auxiliary battery rather than relying on a basic relay-based system. The built-in solar input is a genuine convenience for smaller setups — it means one unit handles both the driving-charge and solar-charge duties without needing a completely separate MPPT controller wired in alongside it.
Pros
- Works properly with smart-alternator vehicles where basic isolators fall short
- Combining DC-DC and solar charging into one unit simplifies smaller installations
- High-temperature tolerance suits underbonnet or exposed mounting positions
Cons
- 25A output is modest for larger lithium banks wanting faster bulk charging
- Solar input capacity is limited compared with a dedicated higher-output MPPT controller
- Best suited to lead-acid/AGM chemistries rather than the highest-output lithium charging profiles
Best for
Owners with modern tow vehicles using smart charging systems, or anyone wanting a single unit to manage both alternator and solar charging in a modest-sized setup.
Verdict
It's a sensible, well-rated charger for the vehicles it's designed around — particularly where a basic isolator has already proven unreliable against a smart alternator. Just be realistic about output if you're running a larger lithium bank.
Projecta IDC25 Intelli-Charge DC to DC Charger
Close-up of the app and Intelli-IQ display showing live charge status
Close-up of the charger unit and heatsink fins
Included components and wiring accessories
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Meta title: Projecta IDC25 Review — DC-DC Charger for Smart Alternators
Meta description: Does the Projecta IDC25 DC-DC charger solve smart-alternator charging problems for Australian tow vehicles? Specs, install notes and who it suits.
Excerpt: A combined DC-DC and solar charger built to work properly with modern smart-alternator vehicles.
Narva Ultima 215 LED Driving Light
Factory headlights are designed around bitumen and legal beam patterns, not the unlit backroads and station tracks that come with serious touring, which is where a proper set of driving lights like the Ultima 215 earns its keep — genuine spot-beam distance for the sections of a trip where headlights alone aren't enough.
Key features
- 165W rated, built around 33 individual 5W CREE XP-G2 LEDs
- Spot beam pattern with a 30-degree spread, designed for long-range illumination
- IP66–IP67 rated housing for dust and water resistance
- 9–33V operating range, suiting both 12V and 24V vehicle electrical systems
- Paired combination-beam sibling (Ultima 225) available for wider near-field spread
RV use case
This is squarely a towing-vehicle upgrade rather than something fitted to the caravan or motorhome itself — relevant to anyone regularly driving into camp after dark, on unlit rural roads, or navigating station and forestry tracks where wildlife and unmarked hazards are a real factor. The wide 9–33V input range means it suits both standard 4WDs and heavier 24V-equipped tow vehicles without needing a different model.
Pros
- Genuine long-range spot beam useful for remote and unlit touring routes
- IP66–IP67 rating suits dusty outback conditions and wet weather alike
- Wide voltage range covers both 12V and 24V vehicle systems
Cons
- Spot-only beam pattern means a combination or spread light is needed alongside it for near-field visibility
- Requires proper wiring with a relay and switch — not a plug-and-play accessory
- Legal use is restricted to off-road or auxiliary driving light circuits, not high-beam replacement on public roads
Best for
Tow vehicle owners doing genuine remote or unlit-road touring — station tracks, forestry roads, or regular after-dark arrivals into camp where extra beam distance matters.
Verdict
Properly fitted and wired, the Ultima 215 does exactly the job it's built for — extending your effective sightline well beyond factory headlights, which matters more than most upgrades once you're off the bitumen after dark.
Narva Ultima 215 LED Driving Light
Colour ring options available for the Ultima range
Lights mounted on a vehicle bull bar
Beam pattern demonstration at night
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Meta title: Narva Ultima 215 Review — LED Driving Lights for Touring
Meta description: A review of the Narva Ultima 215 LED driving light — beam distance, build quality and fit for Australian remote touring and RV towing setups.
Excerpt: A genuine long-range spot beam for the unlit backroads factory headlights were never built for.
Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 Charge Controller
A good MPPT controller is one of those quiet, unglamorous upgrades that pays for itself in charging efficiency, and Victron's SmartSolar 100/30 is one of the most widely fitted mid-size options in the caravan and van conversion space — fanless, Bluetooth-enabled, and built around the maximum power point tracking that gets meaningfully more out of a solar array than a basic PWM controller.
Key features
- Maximum PV open-circuit voltage of 100V, with a 30A maximum charge current
- Supports both 12V and 24V battery systems
- Fanless design with claimed peak efficiency above 98%
- Built-in Bluetooth for setup and monitoring via the VictronConnect app
- Protection against over-temperature, PV short-circuit, reverse polarity and reverse current
RV use case
This suits owners running a rooftop solar array feeding a house battery bank, particularly where panel wiring allows a higher open-circuit voltage configuration — the 100V PV input headroom gives some flexibility in how panels are wired together. Full-rated output is specified to 40°C ambient, with derating above that, which is a genuinely relevant consideration for a controller often mounted in a hot roof cavity or cabinetry in Australian conditions.
Pros
- Strong charging efficiency relative to basic PWM controllers
- Bluetooth app monitoring removes the need for a separate wired display
- Fanless design means no moving parts to fail or clog with dust
Cons
- Mounting location matters — performance derates above 40°C ambient
- 30A ceiling limits how large a solar array you can run at full output
- Costs more upfront than a basic PWM controller of similar current rating
Best for
Owners with a rooftop solar array who want genuine charging efficiency and app-based monitoring, rather than the most basic controller that will technically do the job.
Verdict
The efficiency gains from proper MPPT tracking are real, and this is a well-specified way to get them — just be mindful of where it's mounted, since heat is the one factor genuinely working against it.
Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 Charge Controller
Close-up of the battery, PV and load terminal block
Front view showing the terminal covers and VE.Direct port
VictronConnect app showing solar yield
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Meta title: Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 Review — Solar Controller for RVs
Meta description: How the Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 performs in Australian caravan and van solar setups — efficiency, mounting considerations and app monitoring.
Excerpt: A fanless MPPT controller built for real charging efficiency, with Bluetooth monitoring built in.
Redarc Smart Battery Monitor (BSEN500)
Guessing at state of charge from a row of LEDs is one of the more outdated habits still hanging around older RV electrical setups, and Redarc's Smart Battery Monitor is built to remove that guesswork entirely — a wireless shunt-based monitor that reports directly to your phone.
Key features
- Monitors current draw up to 500A via an in-line shunt
- Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity with a claimed wireless range of around 42 metres
- Compatible with lead-acid, AGM, gel, calcium and lithium (LiFePO4) battery chemistries
- App-based display of state of charge, current and voltage
- Compact shunt-mounted design without a separate wired display panel required
RV use case
This is aimed at owners who want accurate, real-time visibility of their battery bank without wiring a dedicated display panel into the dash or cabinetry — the Bluetooth range is generous enough to check status from inside the van, at the campsite table, or from the tow vehicle. It's particularly useful alongside a lithium upgrade, where accurate state-of-charge reporting matters more than it did with AGM.
Pros
- No wired display panel required — checks happen straight from a phone
- Solid Bluetooth range for a battery-bay-mounted device
- Broad chemistry compatibility covers both existing AGM setups and lithium upgrades
Cons
- Being app-based, it depends on a charged phone to check status at a glance
- Shunt installation needs correct polarity and placement to read accurately
- Doesn't include a permanent physical display for owners who prefer one
Best for
Owners wanting accurate battery monitoring without a wired dash display — particularly useful paired with a recent lithium battery upgrade where precise state-of-charge data matters.
Verdict
It solves the actual problem — knowing what your battery's really doing — without adding another panel to your dash. For owners happy to check a phone rather than a wall-mounted screen, it's a clean, effective solution.
Redarc Smart Battery Monitor (BSEN500)
Close-up of the shunt unit and terminal connections
Phone app displaying live battery status
Shunt installed in a battery compartment, paired with the phone app
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Meta title: Redarc Smart Battery Monitor Review — Bluetooth RV Battery Tracking
Meta description: A look at the Redarc Smart Battery Monitor (BSEN500) — Bluetooth range, accuracy and whether it's the right way to track your RV battery bank.
Excerpt: Wireless, shunt-based battery monitoring that removes the guesswork — no wired dash display required.
Enerdrive EN55050 ePRO+ Battery Monitor
For owners running more than one battery bank, or wanting the kind of precision a serious off-grid setup deserves, Enerdrive's ePRO+ takes a more traditional wired-shunt approach to monitoring — built to track multiple banks rather than just a single house battery.
Key features
- Measures DC current up to 600A (500A continuous) via an active shunt
- Monitors voltage up to 70Vdc
- Capable of tracking up to three separate battery banks
- Compatible with lead-acid and LiFePO4 chemistries
- Robust M10 stainless steel shunt terminals for a secure long-term connection
RV use case
This suits more complex electrical setups — houses batteries plus a separate starting or auxiliary bank, or larger motorhome builds where knowing exactly what each bank is doing matters. The higher voltage and current ceiling gives it headroom that a basic single-bank monitor doesn't have, which is relevant for owners running larger inverter systems or multiple charge sources feeding in simultaneously.
Pros
- Multi-bank monitoring suits more complex electrical systems than a single-battery setup
- High current and voltage ceiling gives real headroom for larger systems
- Robust terminal hardware suited to a permanent, serious installation
Cons
- More capability than a simple single-battery van or caravan setup actually needs
- Wired shunt installation is more involved than a wireless Bluetooth monitor
- Best value is realised in multi-bank systems rather than a single house battery
Best for
Owners running multiple battery banks or larger, more complex electrical systems — bigger motorhomes, serious off-grid builds, or setups with separate house and auxiliary banks.
Verdict
For a single simple house battery, this is more monitor than you need — but for anyone running multiple banks and wanting genuine visibility across all of them, the EN55050's extra headroom and multi-bank tracking earn their place.
Enerdrive EN55050 ePRO+ Battery Monitor
Close-up of the shunt and terminal hardware
Close-up of the display, showing battery percentage and current
The shunt and display shown together
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Meta title: Enerdrive EN55050 ePRO+ Review — Multi-Bank Battery Monitor for RVs
Meta description: A review of the Enerdrive EN55050 ePRO+ battery monitor — multi-bank tracking, current/voltage range and who really needs this level of monitoring.
Excerpt: Serious multi-bank battery monitoring for motorhomes and caravans running more than one power source.
BMPRO BatteryPlus35-II-HA High Amp Power Management System
BMPRO has replaced the entry-level BatteryPlus35-II-SI with a genuine high-amp version — same basic footprint and mounting, but with real MPPT solar regulation and a stronger AC charger behind it, built specifically around supporting a full lithium conversion rather than just protecting one.
Key features
- 35A total output current for 12V loads
- 30A multi-stage AC (mains) battery charger — up from the outgoing SI model's 20A
- Genuine MPPT solar regulation at 30A (420W, 25V max input), not PWM
- Distribution board with 12×10A and 2×15A fused DC outputs, plus a 40A uncontrolled +BRK output for always-on accessories
- CAN bus connection to BMPRO's Trek battery monitor or Odyssey touchscreen
- Compatible with lead-acid and lithium (LiFePO4) — chemistry is set via an OdysseyLink104 or Trek Display accessory, not a switch on the unit itself
RV use case
This is squarely for owners doing a genuine lithium conversion rather than protecting an existing lead-acid setup — the jump from PWM to real MPPT solar regulation, and from 20A to 30A AC charging, matters when you're relying on faster turnaround at a powered site or want to get more out of a rooftop array. The 40A +BRK output is a genuinely useful practical touch, giving accessories like sway control or a trailer breakaway system a dedicated feed that doesn't sit behind the main battery protection circuit.
Pros
- Real MPPT solar regulation rather than the outgoing model's PWM, meaningfully more efficient off a rooftop array
- Stronger 30A AC charging suits faster recovery on powered sites
- Dedicated 40A +BRK output is a sensible inclusion for always-on safety accessories
Cons
- Switching battery chemistry requires an additional BMPRO display or tablet accessory, not a simple onboard switch
- Solar input voltage ceiling (25V) still limits how panels can be wired together
- It's a charging and protection unit, not a DC-DC charger — a separate unit is still needed for alternator charging
Best for
Owners doing a full lithium conversion who want genuine MPPT solar and stronger AC charging than the entry-level SI model offered, particularly if already using BMPRO's Trek or Odyssey display ecosystem.
Verdict
This is the version of the unit a genuine lithium conversion actually wants — real MPPT and meaningfully more AC charging headroom than the model it replaces, at the cost of needing an extra display accessory to fully configure it.
BMPRO BatteryPlus35-II-HA High Amp Power Management System
Shown alongside the OdysseyLink105, display and MiniBoost accessories
The Odyssey touchscreen display, showing tank and lighting controls
Shown with the Odyssey display, part of the BMPRO smart ecosystem
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Meta title: BMPRO BatteryPlus35-II-HA Review — High Amp Power Management for RVs
Meta description: A review of the BMPRO BatteryPlus35-II-HA power management system — real MPPT solar, stronger AC charging, and what it takes over from the outgoing SI model.
Excerpt: Real MPPT and stronger AC charging than the model it replaces — built for owners doing a genuine lithium conversion.
Dometic PLB40 Portable Lithium Battery
Dometic's PLB40 takes a similar idea to a portable power station but strips it back to just the battery — a self-contained, carry-handle lithium unit designed to feed 12V accessories like a compressor fridge directly, without the full inverter and AC-output bulk of a larger station.
Key features
- 40Ah / 512Wh capacity at 12.8V nominal, LiFePO4 chemistry
- Rated for around 2,000 charge cycles
- DC output of 12.8V at up to 15A (150W continuous), plus two USB outputs
- Compact dimensions at 197×197×255mm, weighing 7.3kg
- IP44-rated case with built-in BMS protection
RV use case
This is designed to run a portable fridge or similar 12V accessory independently of the vehicle's main battery system — genuinely useful for camper trailer owners, tent-based tourers, or as a backup supply for a fridge left running in a shaded spot while the main vehicle is off exploring. The compact carry-handle format means it moves easily between the vehicle and camp without needing a fixed installation.
Pros
- Purpose-built for running a 12V fridge independently, with a straightforward output design
- Genuinely portable at just over 7kg
- Solid cycle life for the capacity, suiting regular repeated use
Cons
- No AC inverter output, so it's limited to 12V/USB devices rather than mains appliances
- 40Ah capacity is modest next to a full house battery bank
- IP44 rating is modest — worth keeping it out of direct exposure rather than treating it as fully weatherproof
Best for
Owners wanting a dedicated, portable power source to run a 12V fridge or similar accessory independently — particularly camper trailer and tent-based travellers.
Verdict
It does one job cleanly — keeping a 12V fridge running independently of the main battery system — rather than trying to be a do-everything power station. For that specific use, the size and cycle life stack up well.
Dometic PLB40 Portable Lithium Battery
Close-up of the display and output ports
Close-up of the port cluster and reset button
Close-up of the USB and DC output ports with locking connector
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Meta title: Dometic PLB40 Review — Portable Lithium Battery for RV Fridges
Meta description: A review of the Dometic PLB40 portable lithium battery — capacity, output and how well it runs a 12V fridge independently at camp.
Excerpt: A compact, purpose-built lithium battery for running a 12V fridge independently of the main vehicle system.
Projecta DBC100K 12V 100A Dual Battery Isolator Kit
Before DC-DC chargers became the default recommendation for every setup, electronic dual-battery isolators like the DBC100K were the standard way to keep an auxiliary battery charging off the alternator without draining the starting battery, and they still have a solid place in simpler, older-vehicle setups.
Key features
- 75A continuous / 100A peak charging current
- Voltage-sensing operation — cuts in at 13.4V and cuts out at 12.8V, with a 60-second delay
- Low standby current draw of 30mA, rising to 500mA while actively charging
- Surge protected
- No modification to existing vehicle wiring required
RV use case
This suits simpler setups on older or non-smart-alternator vehicles, where a straightforward voltage-sensing isolator does the job without the added cost of a full DC-DC charger. The manual override function is a genuinely useful inclusion for jump-starting situations, letting you temporarily link the two batteries when needed rather than leaving them permanently isolated.
Pros
- Straightforward, no-frills solution for simpler charging setups
- No modification needed to existing vehicle wiring
- Manual override adds practical flexibility for jump-starting
Cons
- Not suitable for modern smart-alternator vehicles — a DC-DC charger is the correct tool there
- No solar or mains charging input like a combined DC-DC/MPPT unit offers
- Charging performance depends entirely on what the alternator is actually delivering
Best for
Owners with older, non-smart-alternator tow vehicles wanting a simple, cost-effective dual-battery charging solution without stepping up to a full DC-DC charger.
Verdict
For the right vehicle, this is a sensible, affordable solution — but it's worth being honest about whether your tow vehicle actually suits a voltage-sensing isolator, or whether a DC-DC charger is the more appropriate spend.
Projecta DBC100K 12V 100A Dual Battery Isolator Kit
Close-up of the isolator unit and wiring terminals
Cutaway view showing the internal circuit board
Close-up of the power and charging status indicators
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Meta title: Projecta DBC100K Review — Dual Battery Isolator for RVs
Meta description: A review of the Projecta DBC100K dual battery isolator kit — how it works, which vehicles suit it, and when a DC-DC charger is the better choice.
Excerpt: A straightforward voltage-sensing isolator for simpler dual-battery setups on non-smart-alternator vehicles.
Victron Energy Orion-XS 12/12-50A DC-DC Charger
Victron has moved on from the Orion-Tr Smart in the mid-range of its DC-DC charger lineup, and the Orion-XS 12/12-50A is where most owners upgrading will land — a genuinely smaller unit that pushes considerably more current, at the cost of the galvanic isolation the old Isolated model was built around.
Key features
- 50A continuous output (700W) — around 66% more current than the outgoing Orion-Tr Smart 30A unit
- 98.5% efficiency via a fanless aluminium circuit board design, minimal heat build-up
- IP65-rated sealed housing suited to exposed engine bay or underslung mounting
- Bluetooth, VE.Direct and DVCC connectivity through VictronConnect, with charge current adjustable in 0.1A steps
- Built for smart/variable-voltage alternators, including Euro 5 and Euro 6 vehicles
RV use case
This suits owners charging a larger lithium bank who were finding a 30A charger too slow, or anyone replacing an ageing Orion-Tr Smart with something smaller and more efficient. Worth being clear-eyed about the trade-off, though: this variant isn't galvanically isolated, so if a clean electrical break between the vehicle's starting circuit and the house battery was the actual reason you chose the old Isolated model, this isn't a straight swap.
Pros
- Meaningfully higher output in a smaller, lighter unit than the model it replaces
- Fanless, highly efficient design keeps heat down in tight mounting spaces
- IP65 sealed housing suits harsher underslung or engine bay locations
Cons
- Not galvanically isolated — a real consideration if that separation mattered to your original build
- 50A is more output than a smaller single-battery setup is likely to need
- Still requires the VictronConnect app for full configuration, same as the model before it
Best for
Owners charging larger lithium battery banks who want a smaller, more efficient DC-DC charger, and don't have a specific requirement for galvanic isolation between starting and house circuits.
Verdict
The Orion-XS is a straightforward upgrade in output and efficiency, not a like-for-like replacement for the Isolated model it succeeds — worth checking whether isolation was actually load-bearing in your original decision before assuming this is a drop-in swap.
Victron Energy Orion-XS 12/12-50A DC-DC Charger
Close-up of the input/output terminals and status LED
Close-up of the IN/GND/OUT terminal block with cover removed
Rear view of the terminal block and connector housing
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Meta title: Victron Orion-XS 12/12-50A Review — Compact DC-DC Charger for RVs
Meta description: A review of the Victron Orion-XS 12/12-50A DC-DC charger — higher output, better efficiency, and the isolation trade-off worth knowing before upgrading from an Orion-Tr Smart.
Excerpt: More output, less heat, smaller footprint — just not galvanically isolated like the model it replaces.
Fiamma Ultra Box 500 Storage Box
External storage is a constant negotiation in any motorhome build, and the Ultra Box 500 is Fiamma's larger rear-mounted answer to it — a genuinely sizeable exterior box built to take the bulky, awkward gear that never fits neatly inside.
Key features
- 500-litre storage volume
- Open dimensions of approximately 147×83×103cm
- Closed (travel) dimensions of approximately 147×58×70cm
- Weighs around 17kg empty
- Designed for rear-mounted external fitting on motorhomes
RV use case
This is aimed squarely at motorhome owners who've run out of patience trying to fit chairs, a table, hoses, levelling gear and outdoor mats into internal storage. The rear-mounted external position keeps bulky items out of the cabin entirely, which matters for weight distribution and simply for reclaiming internal living space. Payload needs to be factored in carefully — 500 litres of gear adds up in weight, and it's worth weighing loaded to confirm you're still within your motorhome's rated limits.
Pros
- Genuinely large capacity for bulky outdoor gear
- Keeps awkward items out of the cabin, freeing up internal space
- Compact closed dimensions relative to the open storage volume
Cons
- Adds real weight to the rear of the vehicle — payload planning is essential
- External mounting means the box and its contents are exposed to weather and road grime
- Rear overhang and departure angle need checking before fitting on some chassis
Best for
Motorhome owners needing genuine external capacity for bulky outdoor gear — chairs, tables, levelling blocks and hoses that otherwise clutter internal storage.
Verdict
Five hundred litres is a serious amount of external storage, and for motorhome owners drowning in outdoor gear, that's exactly the point — just weigh it properly once loaded, and check departure angle before committing to the fit.
Fiamma Ultra Box 500 Storage Box
Another angled view of the box mounted on the carrier
Interior view showing the mesh compartments and straps
Dimensions diagram for the Ultra Box 500
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Meta title: Fiamma Ultra Box 500 Review — External Motorhome Storage
Meta description: A review of the Fiamma Ultra Box 500 external storage box — capacity, fitting considerations and payload impact for motorhome owners.
Excerpt: A genuinely large external storage box for the bulky outdoor gear that never fits neatly inside.