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Electricity can be crucial in a motorhome, whether it's to charge your devices or keep the lights on at night. Get to know your options for hooking your motorhome up to electricity, so you can keep the juice flowing when you need it.
How motorhomes are powered
How your motorhome is powered will depend on where you are in the world and the type of vehicle you hire.
In simple terms, campervans and motorhomes in New Zealand, Australia, and Europe run on a dual battery, where the first battery is for the vehicle and the second one is for the lights and fridge inside the vehicle. When the vehicle is stationary and not plugged into a campsite's main power, the lights and fridge will run on the second battery and will normally last for at least a day. The secondary battery will recharge when the vehicle is running, but it charges faster when it’s plugged into a main power source. You can plug into a main power source at a campsite to use other electric power points inside the vehicle, as well as for the other appliances to work.
With US and Canadian Motorhomes, the vehicles usually have a generator so that you can power the vehicle at any time and not just when it's plugged into a campsite's main power. Rental companies charge for generator usage in different way, such as by the number of volts used, or as a flat fee per day for unlimited use. When booking a vehicle, check the optional extras for the associated costs of using a generator.
How to connect your motorhome to a power source
If you have booked a powered site at a campground or holiday park, then you will have a dedicated outlet to plug your motorhome power cable into. An adapter may be required, so we recommend that you check if this comes standard or if you have to add it as an extra when you book. All you have to do is connect one end of the power cable to your Motorhome's outlet, which is usually on the side or at the back of the vehicle. Then connect the other end to the power source at your campsite. You may need to switch your power source in the vehicle to 'mains' instead of the battery or generator.
Frequently asked questions
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How does the second battery get charged?
The second, or house battery is charged by running the motorhome or plugging into a power source.
How do I know if my motorhome has a battery or a generator?
After you've made a search, click on 'Vehicle Details / Depot Info / Rental Terms' to see more information about the vehicle, including how it is powered and what's included with the rental.
How do I add unlimited generator use?
If your RV has a generator, you may be able to add unlimited generator use. This option usually means that you'll be charged a flat fee per day, rather than by the number of volts that you use. Once you've selected a vehicle, you can see if unlimited generator use in an option on the 'Select time and optional extras' page.
Can I charge my devices using the second battery?
Yes, you can, however this will drain the battery faster than if you are just using it for lights and the fridge, which is the primary use of the second battery. We recommend that you charge your devices via the USB ports in the main cab (if it has them) while driving the vehicle.
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