Camping Batteries Which One-some Maintenance Tips

camping batteries
© Can Stock Photo / miraclemoments

Camping batteries Which One

Camping batteries Which One

Of course camping covers a wide selection of outdoor activities requiring different things and different comforts. Including if there would be a need for taking a battery or two with you.

Camping batteries are essential for powering our gadgets and appliances during outdoor adventures. My own experience of camping is far and wide between. Starting with the school summer holidays in a homemade (and not waterproof) makeshift tent to the annual outing with the boy scouts, of which I was a member for several years.

Neither of these camping trips required a battery. However over the years things have changed rapidly. People who start out as campers usually go onto buy a caravan and then perhaps a motorhome or campervan.

Batteries have now become a part of the general camping equipment. In my opinion whatever the camping you do then there is a battery to match your requirement.

However the worst thing you could do is to have to carry a battery in a back pack when you may also be hiking.

Camping batteries Which One
Camping batteries Which One

Choose the Right One

  1. Of course, this depends of a few factors. Campers should consider their needs and devices. In my opinion there as two sizes of camping batteries to cover most camping needs. That is for lighting, perhaps if you have children that wake up in the middle of the night, you will need a small battery driven light.

2. For larger tents, I would suggest a battery that could light up an outdoor area where adults could have a BBQ and perhaps some drinks before bed.

Compare capacity, weight, and size

1, My first option for a small emergency light would be a 7AH Lucas VRLA battery. These batteries are relatively small and do not weight that much. These can be used attached to some sort of lighting mechanism for use in an emergency in the middle of the night.

2, They only require a small charger to bring them back up to speed and are relatively inexpensive.

3, For people who are really into camping and prefer all the mod-cons then a larger leisure battery would be more appropriate to take along. The XV31MF Numax battery comes to mind. There are now many new solar powered gadgets on the market as well as smart chargers to keep you battery topped up on holiday.

Store Properly:

When the winter finally arrives then you want to consider the storing of your camping batteries over this period.

  1. Keep in a cool, dry place
  • Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures
  • Remove from devices when not in use

2. Regular Inspection:

  • Check for damage or leaks
  • Ensure terminals are clean and free from corrosion
  • Test charge levels with a voltmeter

3. Charge Correctly:

  • Use the recommended charger
  • Avoid overcharging or discharging
  • Follow manufacturer guidelines

4. Clean Terminals:

  • Use a dry cloth or brush
  • Remove dirt and corrosion
  • Apply petroleum jelly or terminal protectors

5. Extend Battery Life:

  • Turn off devices when not in use
  • Use energy-saving settings
  • Unplug chargers once the battery is full

6. Recycle Responsibly:

  • Dispose of old batteries at designated recycling centres
  • Do not throw them in the trash or in a fire
  • Follow local regulations and guidelines
Camping batteries Which One
© Can Stock Photo / yuriygolu

Some direct advice from Numax batteries

DO:
Ensure your camping batteries are wired and installed in the correct manner. Charge your battery after purchase and prior to each use.
Keep the terminals and posts free from corrosion – lightly coat with petroleum jelly.
Always keep your battery fully charged – even when not in use! When not in use, store in a cool and dry environment
connected to an intelligent charger.
Always keep the battery upright and adequately secured. Always apply a charge to the battery at the end of the season
and remove it from caravan/motorhome where possible, or use a permanently connected intelligent charger.
Check your caravan/motorhome for systems that draw a constant charge – e.g. tracker or alarm – as you will need to
counter this draw with a constant re-charge to maintain the battery

DON’T:
Never over discharge your camping batteries. Try to keep voltage from dropping below 12.3v. The deeper you discharge your battery, the fewer number of cycles you will achieve.
Never leave your battery in a discharged state for a prolonged period of time.
Never reverse the polarity on your battery charging leads as this may damage the battery and charger.

Finally

Proper camping battery maintenance is crucial for a hassle-free outdoor experience. By following these simple tips, you can ensure your camping batteries last longer and perform better, allowing you to focus on enjoying the great outdoors, year on year. Camping batteries can ad that little extra to the end of the day when darkness arrives. Especially on a nice warm summers evening outdoors with friends and family.

Happy camping!

eric roberts
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