RV Things

Renting an RV offers an unparalleled mode of travel and the opportunity for adventure. With the freedom of the road, you can have an unforgettable road trip while taking your home away from home right along with you.

However, if you’ve never rented an RV before, there’s a lot to think about. And that can be a little intimidating. But don’t let that stop your trip before it begins. With this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about renting an RV.

Plan the Trip

Before you even think about the RV, focus on the trip you want to take. Where do you plan to go? How long will the trip be? Who’s coming along?

All of these factors will influence every decision you make. The number, age, and interests of people traveling will influence the stops you make, your activities, and the size of RV you rent.

Budget for Your Trip

As you research your RV, you should have a budget in mind for the trip. Start with the cost involved for renting the vehicle. Then there’s a lot more to think about.

• Gas: Gas, alone, is a big cost. And RVs use a lot of it. Not to mention the fact that they get terrible gas mileage. So begin estimating how much you’re going to have to spend on gas.
• Campground Fees: The place you park your RV will come with a cost. These campgrounds and RV parks offer water and dumping station access. Plan ahead for the fees involved so you won’t have any surprises.
• It’s also worth a little effort to check with your local library for passes to State and National Parks. Sometimes you can check these out as you would a library book. This can help guide your trip and provide you with a camping spot without worrying about a fee. Plus, you get to enjoy some amazing attractions for free.
• Food: Depending on the duration of your trip, you may need to stop for groceries along the way. Plus, you’ll want to be prepared for those can’t miss restaurants. Budgeting for food will help you get your fill without stressing your wallet.
• Activities: Of course, no trip is complete without those fun outings. Whether you plan them in advance or they come spur of the moment, you need to factor in the cost of activities in your budget.

Research RV Parks and Campgrounds

You have a variety of choices when staying at an RV park or campground. The number of offerings vary. Kamgrounds of America (KOA) and ReserveAmerica have a dump station, full hookups, and on-site staff. Some state parks have these, as well as playgrounds and other attractions. They’re also less expensive than privately-owned RV communities.

The best thing to do is plan ahead to find a park or campground that provides the kind of RV experience you’re looking for.

Research Your RV Options

Committing to renting an RV is a big deal. The choice you make can significantly impact your trip, making it the best ever or memorable for all the wrong reasons. That’s why it’s a good idea to find one or more retailers near you and research their inventory in person.

By conducting on-site research, you get a feel for model sizes, amenities, and gas mileage. The dealership staff can answer questions you have and provide you with a wealth of information. And most likely, they’re RV enthusiasts who can give you the benefits of their own experiences.

Once you’ve gotten an in-person crash course in RV availability, you can supplement your research by going online. That way, you can delve deeper and begin to narrow down what’s a good fit for your group and your trip.

RV Types (Your Options)

• Class A: Ranging up to 45 feet long, Class A RVs are the largest models. They look and drive like buses. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to take a test drive to make sure you can safely handle this type of RV on the road. They often come with slide-outs that can open for additional space when parked.
• Class C: Class C RVs normally range 25-30 feet long. However, diesel models can be up to 45 feet. They rest on truck chassis and contain beds that jut out over the driver’s seat. These models are the easiest RV to drive and the most common available for rent.
• Class B: Class B RVs are vans converted into RVs, or camper vans. With a maximum length of 25 feet, these compact RVs are ideal for one or two people. It’s not very common for them to be self-contained with a bed, kitchen, and bathroom. So you may have to use your campground’s bathroom and shower facilities.
• Travel Trailers: With travel trailers, you need a truck to tow them. The advantage of these RVs is that since there’s no driving area, you get more space inside. Plus, you can select from any number of lengths ranging from 9-43 feet. The downside is that since they’re pulled behind a vehicle with a tow hitch, towing these RVs isn’t an easy task.
• Fifth Wheels: Just like travel trailers, you can tow fifth wheels. But these are easier to tow because they attached over the axle and into your truck bed. This makes for a sturdier drive. Their lengths range from 25-40 feet.

The Rental Procedure

Once you’re ready to rent the RV that works for you, there’s a procedure.

• Regardless of what service you use, the inventory that’s available will vary, depending on the dates of your trip. So look when you’re choosing from the inventory and find your travel dates first. Then select your RV.
• If your travel dates are flexible, look for those with discounts. Sometimes you get reduced rates for one-way rentals, relocations, longer, or off-season rentals.
• Check for restrictions, such as how many miles you can drive per day and how long the generator can run. Exceeding these limits will cost you extra.
• Check for how many people are allowed to fit in the RV.
• Check for what you’re responsible for before returning the RV, such as dumping the holding tanks.
• The service you choose will most likely allow you to reserve the RV online.
• Expect to pay a security deposit. Getting it back when you return the RV is determined by the rental terms.
• Be mindful of additional fees. RV rental services often offer additional amenities. But you have to pay for them. That includes, propane, generators, linens, kitchenware. That may sound like quite an add-on, but it’s often less expensive than those provided at campgrounds and RV parks.
• Understand that you need insurance with the RV. While rental services generally provide liability insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance, you should also have auto insurance. A temporary binder may be available from your insurance carrier. If not, your RV rental service can sell the needed coverage to you.
• If you’ve ever rented a car or moving van, you’re already familiar with what to expect from renting an RV. When you arrive to pick it up, the service associate walks you through the vehicle, checking for damage and showing you how to use the systems. After signing paperwork and receiving the keys, you’re on your way. When you return the RV, the service associate will inspect the vehicle again to check for damage and overages.

Prepare to Use RV Hookups

Before you head out on the road, make sure you’re comfortable using the RV Hookups. Study the instruction manual that’s included in your RV rental. Also make sure the service associate walks you through the procedure of hooking up to water, sewer, and electricity. If you still need help when you get to your campsite, ask your fellow RVers or the staff. Being uncertain about what you’re doing could damage the RV electrical system or cause water and sewer issues.

Keep in mind that dumping your RV wastewater will be the least fun part of your trip. And it’s a dirty job. You might want to consider paying extra for dump services if your RV park or rental company offers it. You might also prefer using public restrooms and showers available at your campground or RV park and foregoing the water and sewer hookups, altogether. This could save you the possibility of making a hookup error and free up some of your trip budget for other things.

With some research and planning, you’ll find that renting an RV is one of the best ways to have a memorable vacation, enjoy the countryside, and take in local flavor – all while enjoying the freedom of the road.

An RV is often used for permanent living, travel, vacations  and for camping activities. Many people use RV’s to travel to destinations with extremely varied and fluctuating temperatures such as mountains, deserts and the beach. During the summer when it is extremely hot or when traveling to very warm locations, keeping your RV windows open and using fans only results in the circulation of stifling hot air. Open windows can also allow insects to enter the RV and is a security risk especially in isolated rural areas.

For these and many other reasons it is important to understand the benefits of an AC system for your RV and to be aware of what to look for when selecting the AC system best suited for the size of your RV. These parameters include: Ensuring an adequate BTU cooling capacity, determining if a ducted or non-ducted air conditioning system is best for you, finding the most aerodynamic design of Rooftop RV Air Conditioner, looking for a top electrical rating, making sure the roof opening is adequate for your new Rooftop AC unit and finding a unit with the best warranty and spare parts availability to protect this important asset.

If you’re in a hurry, then you can check out our list of the top rooftop RV air conditioners on the market right now. Or, read our guide that covers what you need to know before shopping for one of these units. We also have some product reviews of our editor’s favorite models RV ACs at the end of this article.

Best Rooftop RV Air Conditioners for the Money (2018)

Preview	Product	Price
	Dometic Polar White 15,000 BTU Conditioners B59516.XX1C0 Brisk Air Ii 15.0 Pw Upper Unit	$789.15 from $608.89	Buy on Amazon
	Airxcel 08-0080 Mach 15 15.0 Arctic Wht Upper	$727.47	Buy on Amazon
	Coleman Airxcel 08-0056 Mach III Ps 13.5 Arctic White	$719.30	Buy on Amazon
	Dometic 640315C Penguin II 410 Amp Low Profile Rooftop Air Conditioner(Polar White)	$852.00	Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2019-05-22 at 05:17 / Affiliate disclosure / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Benefits of an AC Unit for Your RV

• An AC unit for your RV like an AC unit for your home is essential for your comfort and health especially when driving to or visiting hot places.
•  If the RV’s AC unit does not cool quickly or suddenly turns off, the temperature in your RV can rise quickly just like it would in a smaller vehicle.
• This can seriously affect you, your entire family and even your pets.
• The major difference between a home and RV AC system is that the RV system must cool the entire RV space instead of just large individual rooms.
• This requires extra cooling power.
• Since an RV is also usually constructed of a metal shell it tends to retain a significant amount of heat which makes it more difficult to cool.
• Lack of shade and driving on hot asphalt adds to the need for a powerful and efficient RV AC unit.

What to Look for & Consider

#1 – Make Sure the AC Unit has an Adequate BTU Level

• To cool a large RV it usually requires an AC unit with a capacity of at least 15,000 to 18,000 BTU’s per hour.
• BTU stands for British Thermal Units which indicates cooling efficiency or how well an air conditioner can cool a space.
•  Anything greater than 13,500 BTU’s is usually the minimal level for adequate cooling of a small RV in hot destinations.

#2 – Choose Either a Ducted or Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC System

• A non-ducted Rooftop AC unit for a RV blows cold air down directly down from the bottom of the AC ceiling unit.
• A ducted Rooftop AC unit for a RV is very similar to a ducted unit in your home.
• Typically there are 2 ducts used each having individual thermostats for each area or ac “zone” of the RV.
• This individualizes the level of AC usage in each AC zone but can result in areas where cold and hot air mix decreasing overall cooling levels.

#3 – Aerodynamics – Find the Best Size and Shape of a Rooftop AC Unit for Your RV

• Ideally a Rooftop RV AC unit should be sleek and with a low profile with minimal air resistance and reduced wind drag.
• Low wind drag and reduced air resistance helps maintain speed and velocity and helps overall fuel economy.

#4 – Look for a Top Electrical Rating

• Electrical rating refers to the voltage at which an electrical appliance is designed to work and how much energy (amps) will be consumed at that voltage.
• This is important because usually a RV only has approximately 30 amps total of power available to use for everything.
• If the AC unit is pulling off more then half of the RV’s available power (for example 19 amps), then it leaves much less energy to operate the converter and other electrical appliances such as the hot water heater and microwave over and other electrical appliances.
• An electrical rating of 1 phase 60 hertz 120 volts is usually considered ideal for a Rooftop RV AC unit.

#5 – Determine the Roof Opening Fit

• Standard Roof Opening Fit to accommodate a Rooftop RV AC unit is usually 14 by 14 inches.

#6 – Use the Best Refrigerant Possible for Your AC Unit

• Optimum refrigerants which will cool air down quickly include the R410A refrigerant.

#7 – Determine the Colors that are Available

• Most RV Rooftop AC units come in either black or white colors with black and white shrouds.

#8 – Get the Best Type of Warranty

• The standard manufacturer’s warranty is for 2 years. Extended warranties are usually recommended.

#9 – Make Sure Spare Parts are Available

• It is important to make sure that spare parts for your Rooftop RV AC unit are readily available

Types of RV Air Conditioners

There are 4 basic types of RV Air Conditioners. These include: Rooftop AC units, Vent Free Portable AC units, Portable AC units and Window AC units.

Rooftop AC RV units

• Rooftop AC RV Units save space and are strategically placed in an appropriate spot on the roof of the RV.
• They can either be ducted or non-ducted but ducted versions tend to consume 30% of total efficiency.
• Non-ducted Rooftop AC units blow air down from the ceiling unit.
• Rooftop RV Air Conditioners are cooled by the external air and so are affected by the external ambient temperature and weather.
• Many Rooftop AC RV units can weigh more than one hundred pounds and require at least 2 experienced people for installation.
• These types of AC units also require connection of wires and installation of vents for vented units.

Rooftop AC RV units with a Heat Pump

• Rooftop AC RV units with a Heat Pump are useful for heating and cooling year around. A heat pump can be combined with your Rooftop AC RV unit.
• A heat pump that is part of a central air conditioning and heating system works by moving heat instead of creating heat and so is a more energy efficient HVAC system.
• For example, in the winter when it is cold outside, a heat pump extracts the heat (available heat is always present in cold air) from the outside cold air and transfers it inside to heat the vehicle interior.
• When it is hot outside, a heat pump moves hot air from inside to the outside cooling like an air conditioner would.

Vent Free Portable AC Units

• A Vent Free Portable AC Unit which is also called a “swamp cooler” is a small unit which does not use the refrigeration process for cooling.
• Air within the RV is brought into the AC unit where it is evaporated and then cooled and released to cool the entire RV.
• One drawback of this type of cooling unit is that it takes up precious useable floor space within the RV.
• Another problem is that a Vent Free Portable AC Unit requires use of a hose to eliminate leakage of water that is drawn in from the air.
• A Vent Free Portable AC Unit for an RV can only be used in dry climates and does not function efficiently in humid climates.

Portable AC Units

• Portable AC units can also be used to cool an RV.
• They usually require the use of 1 to 2 hoses and are the least expensive option for AC cooling of an RV.
•  These hoses can allow hot air to seep back into the RV’s interior and take up a significant amount of floor space.
• A drawback is that they are not particularly energy efficient and tend to be somewhat noisy.

Window AC Units for a RV

• A Window AC Unit for an RV is usually small and takes up less floor space than other types of air conditioning units.
• These types of units are relatively quick and easy to install and can be as narrow as 14 inches wide.
• In addition, Window AC Units for an RV tend to be less noisy than portable AC units.

Can You Install it Yourself?

• If you are handy and have basic tool skills and wiring experience and have a friend who can help you, there should be no problem installing your new RV Rooftop AC Unit yourself.
• No special tools are necessary and the entire procedure should not take very long.
• The first step is to protect the area on the roof around the installation site with thick cloths to avoid denting or scratching the roof’s surface especially if it has a smooth finish.
• Then make sure the roof can support your weight and reinforce the roof with plywood if needed.
• Now remove the external AC unit shroud (covering) which is usually done by removing 4 bolts or screws.
• Then, remove the old AC unit from the rooftop by first removing four long bolts that are holding the AC unit to the roof.
• Now, remove the old AC unit and lift it off from the roof of your RV.
• Then, place the new AC unit over the 14 by 14 inch opening square ceiling hole and follow instructions to ensure the unit is properly placed.
• Now install any ducts as applicable and attach all AC electrical connections.
• Finally, put the cover over the control unit and attach the shroud over the air conditioning unit as directed.

Care and Maintenance Tips

• Proper care and maintenance of your Rooftop RV AC unit is crucial for proper functioning and longevity.
• First, take a ladder and go up onto the roof of your RV and examine the cover of your AC unit.
• Check for any cracks or breaks in the plastic AC unit cover.
• Determine if any water has entered the unit and if the gaskets are intact.
• Make sure that the cooling fins are straight and not bent.
• Also, examine the plastic shroud covering the AC unit on the inside ceiling for any defects and wash the filters per instructions.
• Be sure to also clean out the duct work as applicable.
• Finally, run the AC unit to make sure it is running effectively.

Product Comparisons – Our Top Rooftop RV Air Conditioner Reviews

#1 – Dometic B 595 16.xx 1 CO Brisk II Air Conditioner 15,000 BTU 410A

• Unit color – White
• Shroud Color – Black or white
• BTU’s – 15,000 BTU
• Ducted or Non-Ducted –  Both Ducted and Non-Ducted
• Motor and Fan – High performance motor and fan
• Electrical Rating – 115 AC, 60 Hz. 1 Phase
• Installation – Easy installation and fits into all 14- inch roof vent openings
• Maintenance – Easy maintenance
• Warranty – Manufacturer’s 2- year warranty on parts with 2- year Protection Plus Warranty available
• Weight – 74 pounds
• Product Dimensions – 29.2 inches x 27.2 inches x 12.7 inches
• Folding – No Folding

Summary of Pros and Cons

• Pros – The Dometic B 595 16.xx 1 CO Brisk II Polar Air Conditioner is a strong, reliable unit that is easy to install. It is 19% lighter than similar models with an increased air flow of 15% over older models. It is one of the smallest rooftop a/c units available and fits a standard 14 x 14 air vent. It has center discharge air delivery which increases airflow and improves the unit’s cooling capacity. It has a heavy – duty motor and a more rigid shroud then previously along with a strong and stable rib reinforced base pan. It operates on a 15,000 BTU/hour capacity.
• Cons – This unit was judged to be relatively expensive with somewhat poor packaging protection.

#2 – Coleman 48204C866 Mach 15+ A/C Unit

• Unit color – White
• Shroud Color – Black or white
• BTU’s – 15,000 BTU
• Ducted or Non-Ducted –  Ducted
• Motor and Fan – High performance motor and fan
• Electrical Rating – 120 volts, 1800 watts
• Installation – Easy installation
• Maintenance – Easy maintenance
• Warranty – Manufacturer’s 2- year warranty on parts
• Weight – 90 pounds
• Product Dimensions – 42 inches x 28 inches x 16 inches
• Folding – No Folding

Summary of Pros and Cons

• Pros – The Coleman 48204C866 Mach 15+ A/C unit has a strong, heavy duty motor with a one third horsepower fan. This is the largest motor used for RV’s. it has a high cooling output and provides cool air at 320 cubic feet per meter (CFM). It has a streamlined shape and is durable and sturdy. It contains all copper tubing and gas-fluxed brazed joints. It has a large evaporator that dissipates heat efficiently in conjunction with  condenser coils with raised lanced fins. It also has built in condenser coil protection.
• Cons – The most common complaint about the Coleman 48204C86 a/c unit was that it only blows cold air in a single, straight down direction and has no up and down adjustment available.

#3 – Coleman 48205C966 Mach 3+ AC Unit

• Unit Color – White
• Shroud Color – Black or White
• Ducted or Non-Ducted – Both Ducted and Non-Ducted units are available
• Motor and Fan – Heavy duty 1/3 horse power fan motor
• Electrical Rating  120 volts
• Installation – Easy installation
• Maintenance – Easy maintenance
• Warranty – 2 Year warranty on parts
• Weight – 90 pounds
• Product Dimensions – 41.2 inches x 28.5 inches x 15.8 inches
• Folding – No Folding

Summary of Pros and Cons

• Pros – The Coleman 48208C966 Mach 3+ RV Air Conditioner Unit has a 13,500 BTU capacity but uses less power and provides more cooling then a typical 13,500 BTU unit. It is extremely reliable and has all-copper tubing and gas-flexed brazed joints. This unit has a one third horse power fan motor which starts easily. It also has a plastic drain pan that prevents and eliminates corrosion. This unit has better heat dissipation due to a large evaporator and condenser coils. It is structured to prevent angle distortion of the blower heel and has a sealed shaft to prevent harmful effects from the elements.
• Cons – The only reported complaints for this unit was that it tended to be relatively noisy.

#4 – Dometic 640315C Penguin II 410 Amp Low profile Rooftop Air Conditioner

• Unit Color – White
• Shroud Color – Black or White
• Ducted or Non-Ducted – Both Ducted and Non-Ducted units are available
• Motor and Fan – Heavy duty fan motor
• Refrigerant – R410A refrigerant which releases heat more efficiently
• Electrical Rating  120 volts AC. 60 Hz, 1 PH, 410 Amps, 3000 Watts
• Installation – Easy installation
• Maintenance – Easy maintenance
• Warranty – 2 Year warranty on parts
• Weight – 99 pounds
• Exterior – Smooth
• Product Dimensions – 29 inches x 40 inches x 9.5inches Tits standard 14 X 14-inch roof opening
• Folding – No Folding

Summary of Pros and Cons

• Pros – The Dometic 640315CXXIJO  Penguin II 410 Amp Low Profile Rooftop Air Conditioner is ideal for either ducted or non-ducted AC systems. It has a very low profile and a streamlined design which decrease air resistance and drag. It has a high-quality fan and uses environmentally acceptable R410A refrigerant. It is light weight but sturdy and durable.
• Cons – This unit tends to produce various sounds during operation which can be annoying.

Conclusion

One of the most important decisions to ensure comfort and safety in your RV travels is to select a RV Rooftop Air Conditioner Unit that is energy, cost and space efficient. By placing the AC unit on the roof in an aerodynamic manner, air resistance and drag is decreased while precious space within the RV is freed up to provide increased room for normal activities. Vented Rooftop RV AC units can circulate cool air directly into vents eliminating the need for a ceiling control panel that decreases headroom. Adequate BTU levels of from 15,000 to 18,000 BTUs per hour are usually necessary for effective cooling of large RV’s. By carefully considering the foregoing information you can purchase the very best Rooftop RV AC unit with the best value and warranty that will provide years of reliable cooling function to ensure RV travelling comfort in all types of conditions for you and your family.

You love the freedom of hitting the open road with your house on wheels. RVing is a great way to travel. But just because you want to get away doesn’t mean you want to be completely off the grid. After all, we’re in the Internet age, which means that staying connected, even in your RV, has become a basic need.

Regardless of whether you enjoy weekend outings, taking advantage of summer vacation, or spending all or most of your time RVing, staying online is important. After all, staying apprised of the weather, binging your favorite shows, and staying in touch by email can mean a lot. And you can’t forget to upload those fun pictures and videos from your trip.

Fortunately, you can stay connected in an RV. You just have to give it a little thought. Consider how important being connect is for you. If you work while traveling and using the Internet is part of that, of course connectivity is a priority. Even then, think about whether you have a flexible work schedule or need to be connected during a certain time of the day. That will influence when and how you connect.

If you’re traveling with your family, you may want to be strategic with your connectivity. Sure, letting the kids use their devices keeps them occupied on the road. But going off grid lets them get the full experience of the trip.

If you’re retired and road-tripping, you may only want to connect occasionally to check email or post trip pictures online. So staying connected 24/7 isn’t a big deal to you.

By thinking about when and how often you need Internet, you can better research your choices. Those choices include cellular data, WiFi, and satellite.

Cellular Data

An easy way to stay connected no matter where you go is with cellular data. It also comes with several advantages:

• Because you need a password, it’s much more secure than public WiFi.
• The speed is faster than a cable modem.
• It’s reliable, enabling you to connect to the Internet wherever you can get a carrier signal.
• It’s mobile. Cellular data doesn’t need wires or electrical hookups to operate.

There are a variety of carriers out there offering cellular data. Just make sure you choose one that you know will be accessible where you travel.

Also, keep in mind how much data you’ll need and purchase accordingly. Will you be just using your cell phone or will you need your other devices? Will you be using your cell phone as a hot spot for your other devices? The cost of data plans varies by company. So do your research to make sure you get what works best for you.

WiFi

Although you can’t use WiFi while driving down the road, it is readily available in many places. It’s also free, which is about as easy on your budget as you can get.

Most libraries and coffee shops have free public WiFi. So do many fast-food restaurants, such as McDonald’s. But other than libraries, it’s common courtesy to make a purchase when taking advantage of this service.

The problem with free public WiFi is that the networks can easily overload. That means your connectivity can be spotty and you can easily get disconnected again and again.

These days, many RV parks and campground offer WiFi access, too. Some are free, others charge an extra fee. But this isn’t always worth it because the metal construction of RVs causes them to block WiFi signals. So you could pay for a service you pretty much can’t get. On the other hand, you can always sit outside the vehicle and hope for access. Then again, you could find yourself faced with the same problem as those you might have in those coffee shops and eateries. So it might be best to forego WiFi altogether and bank on cellular data.

Satellite

Satellite Internet comes from a signal beamed from space to a satellite dish that’s mounted on your RV roof or on a tripod. It then sends that signal to a modem in your RV. They measure 3 feet tall when in use and up to 5 feet when flattened and stored. This option is widely available, reliable, and lets you connect anywhere. As mentioned, you have two choices for mounting the dish:

• Roof-Mounted: Just like at home, a roof-mounted RV satellite attaches to the RV roof. It’s easy to use, too. To operate the satellite and enable the dish to rotate to find a signal in less than 10 minutes, you just click a button. Since an RV satellite dish is permanently mounted to your vehicle’s roof, it doesn’t use storage space in the RV.

A disadvantage of this option is that installation and set-up costs up to four times more than a tripod-mounted dish. So this option would be ill-suited if you don’t plan to go RVing often.

If you do decide this option is for you, you only have a few companies to choose from. They include Winegard, AVL Technologies, and C-Com. As part of your research, contact a company that specializes in this technology, such as Mobile Satellite Technologies, which has trained technicians who can help you find the right fit for your needs.

• Tripod-Mounted: A tripod-mounted RV satellite attaches to a three-legged stand, which you can put anywhere near your RV. It’s a good option if you have a small RV or one with solar panels and can’t accommodate a rooftop satellite.

An advantage of a tripod-mounted satellite is that the equipment is significantly cheaper than mounted models. Plus, there’s no installation to pay for. Another is that you’ll always have Internet access, no matter how remote your location.

The downside is that the equipment takes up storage space in the RV when you’re traveling. Plus, you have to install it, which takes about 30 minutes, every time you set up camp.

You also need to be award that you need to be precise when aiming the satellite on a signal. But online tutorials can help you with this (Print them out beforehand.) If you’re familiar with a GPS system, though, it should be pretty easy.

Quite a few services provide tripod-mounted satellite Internet for RVs. The most notable include Directway and HughesNet, which offer equipment and monthly service plans.

Satellite is a great way to ensure you’re connected to the Internet, wherever you travel. If you have a larger RV and relocate more often, a mounted dish is worth considering. But If your vehicle is smaller and you stay in one spot, a tripod-mounted satellite could be your best option. Either way, both of these choices keep you connected.

If you’re making plans to hit the road in an RV and experience the best of what the country has to offer, then first take a moment to make sure you’ve got all the equipment and gear that you need. And for an RV, a deep cycle battery is essential.

For those of you new to RVing, the deep cycle battery is basically what you need for the camper to have electricity. It gives your appliances and any other electrical devices the power that they need when you’re not parked in a campsite and hooked up to 110-volt power supply.

Think of it like this – without a functioning deep cycle battery, you won’t have a working refrigerator, a working air conditioner, a working heater, and worst of all, you won’t be able to get fresh water pumped into your RV’s fresh water tank. So, pretty much everything inside that RV needs this thing to work (unless you’re hooked up to electricity at a campsite).

With that in mind, you might think that any old battery will do – not so! Let us help you to select the RV battery that will give you the most bang for your buck. We’ll give you everything we think that you need know when it comes to choosing the best deep cycle batteries for your RV. You’ll learn about the some of the best RV deep cycle batteries on the market with our RV battery reviews, and we’ll give you some tips on using deep cycle batteries and shopping for them.

In a hurry and just want to know what we recommend? Check out the list below, or keep reading for our in-depth reviews and guide.

Best Deep Cycle RV Batteries for the Money (2018)

Preview	Product	Price
	VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery: High Capacity & Maintenance Free Deep Cycle Battery for Golf...	$299.99 $279.99	Buy on Amazon
	Amstron GC2 6V AGM Golf Cart, Marine, RV Battery	$196.54	Buy on Amazon
	100 Ah LiFePO4 12 Volt Deep Cycle Battery	from $999.00	Buy on Amazon
	Lifeline Marine AGM Battery - GPL-4CT	$376.99	Buy on Amazon
	Trojan Trojan 6 Volt Battery T-105	$240.41	Buy on Amazon
	Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Battery	from $376.78	Buy on Amazon
	WindyNation 100 amp-Hour 100AH 12V 12 Volt AGM Deep Cycle Sealed Lead Acid Battery - Solar RV UPS...	$199.99	Buy on Amazon
	NP6-225Ah 6V 225Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery Camper Golf Cart RV Boat Solar Wind Power / （2pcs）	$469.99	Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2019-05-22 at 05:17 / Affiliate disclosure / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Selecting a good deep cycle RV battery is not as simple as picking up the first one you see at a good price. Some last longer than others. Some are easier to install than others. Sometimes even the top of the line batteries aren’t that great if you don’t know how to get the right voltage by connecting them together. Honestly, it seems like there are a million things that you need to know in order to make an informed decision. So, let us clear up some of that confusion for you and help you make a good choice before your family hits the road.

What Is A Deep Cycle Battery?

For most adults, the type of vehicle battery that we’re most familiar with is the kind that you find under the hood of your car. However, the battery you find in your vehicle is called a starting battery and it is not the same as the RV deep cycle battery. For a simple look at deep cycle vs starting batteries, here’s the breakdown:

• Starting battery: Designed to send out high bursts of energy for short periods, like when starting your car engine. Then, your vehicle’s alternator recharges it.
• Deep cycle battery: Designed to send out steady amounts of energy for long periods, like when powering the fridge in your RV while you drive across Kansas. They repeatedly discharge and recharge by design.

A starting battery (in your car) is designed to repetitively discharge down to 20% of its capacity. But deep cycle batteries are designed to discharge down to 50% – 70% of its capacity. Then, when it recharges that energy is put back into it and the cycle restarts.

You often see deep cycle batteries also being used for marine applications and in small transport vehicles like golf carts.

And, you can sometimes find a dual purpose battery that is both a starting and a deep cycle battery, like the Optima BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Battery (at Amazon), but you’re usually better off with a dedicated deep cycle battery and a dedicated starting battery for your RV adventures.

Battery Systems summarizes the differences like this: Deep Cycle batteries provide a greater reserve capacity, but cannot deliver as many peak CCA’s (cold cranking amps). Starting Batteries are made to provide high power for higher amp, more frequent short draws, and limited long term discharge.

Deep Cycle Battery vs Golf Cart Battery For RVs

You’ll see us recommend some golf cart battery and some traditional deep cycle batteries for your RV, and that might make you wonder why that is. It’s all about voltage.

• Golf cart batteries are 6-volt.
• Deep cycle batteries are 12-volt.

You see, in some instances the golf cart batteries end being more cost-effective than the regular 12-volt batteries. That doesn’t mean that every RV owner should use golf cart batteries, but some should – it just depends on your RVing style.

What this really comes down to is the inside of the battery — in the 6-volt battery, there is more space per cell, which means that it can discharge deeper than any 12-volt deep cycle battery on the market. I’ve blown your mind, right? Well, there’s more!

Most of the 12-volt deep cycle RV batteries that you come across are not really true deep cycle batteries. In fact, the are actually more of a hybrid battery that is a combination of a deep cycle and a starting battery. Crazy, right? Well, here’s the really crazy part — most 6-volt golf cart batteries are true deep cycle batteries! That’s why some RV owners prefer to use golf cart batteries.

If you’re interested in getting some golf cart batteries for your RV, then we think that the best 6-volt battery for RVs is the VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery (available at Amazon).

Sale

VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery: High Capacity & Maintenance Free Deep Cycle Battery for Golf Carts, Solar Energy, Wind Energy.

• 9.5"*7.3"*11"h Heavy Duty 6V AGM DEEP CYCLE BATTERY with Float Service Life span of 8 to 10 years.
• Electrolyte Suspension system VMAX tanks utilize an electrolyte suspension system consisting AGM (Absorbed Glass Matt) of a high porosity that totally absorb and contain the electrolyte. No silica gels or any other contaminants are used.
• Heavy Duty Grids: VMAX heavy duty lead tin alloys provide an extra margin of performance and service life in either float or cyclic applications, even after repeated over discharges.
• # Maintenance Free Operation: There is no need to check specific gravity of the electrolyte or add water to VMAX tanks during float service life. In fact, there is no provision for this type of maintenance.
• Visit Manufacturer's web site for further info vmaxtanks.com. Authorized Seller: bargainshore

$299.99 - $20.00 $279.99

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2019-05-22 at 05:17 / Affiliate disclosure / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Types of Deep Cycle RV Batteries

As you start your shopping for a good deep cycle RV battery, you will notice that there is more than on type available on the market. In fact, there are four different types of deep cycle RV batteries, and each type has it’s pros and cons. The three types are:

• Flooded Lead Acid Deep Cycle RV Batteries (also known as “wet cell” batteries)
• Sealed Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Deep Cycle RV Batteries
• Gel Sealed Deep Cycle RV Batteries
• Lithium Ion Deep Cycle RV Batteries

The most commonly used of these types is the Flooded Lead Acid, probably because they tend to be the most affordable (even though they require the most maintenance). The most expensive type is Gel and we’re not fans of this type cause they damage too easily. Our favorite type is AGM because they last the longest and don’t require any maintenance.

So, which type is best? That really depends you and your needs! Let’s tale a closer look at these four types to help you figure it out.

About Flooded Lead Acid Batteries

With this type, you have to use them in a vented location. Regular maintenance is definitely required, as is off-season charging. These things don’t seem to do well with a lot of vibration and an upright position is a must for installation.

So, why are these things so popular with RV owners?

In addition to being the cheapest type of RV battery on the market, they handle overcharging better than the other two types. Also, flooded batteries offer the lowest per-amp hour operation cost of all the types, as well as the longest life span of the battery types.

What’s the maintenance for this type consist of?

You have to do regularly do things like equalizing the charging, watering, and cleaning the terminals. With regular maintenance, you’re looking at a good five to seven year life span for one of these. Don’t do regular maintenance or buy a really cheap flooded RV battery, then you only get around a three year life span. If you want to avoid the cheap flooded RV batteries that won’t last you as long, then shop for one of these top brands: Interstate Batteries, Trojan, or Rolls Surrette.

In terms of loss average, you’re looking at around 20% loss with flooded batteries. So, you can expect around 80 watt-hours from every 100 watt-hours you put into a flooded battery.

If you’re looking for the best deep cycle flooded RV battery for the money, then we recommend the Trojan Trojan 6 Volt Battery T-105 (available at Amazon). With regular maintenance, you can probably get 10+ years out of this one.

Trojan Trojan 6 Volt Battery T-105

• Voltage: 6, Amperage: 225Ah, Chemistry: Flooded
• Length: 10.300, Width: 7.100, Height: 10.800
• Trojan
• Flooded Lead Acid

$240.41

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2019-05-22 at 05:17 / Affiliate disclosure / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About AGM Deep Cycle Batteries

We think that AGM batteries offer the best value for the money when it comes to deep cycle batteries. They require less maintenance, are stronger (charge up to five times faster) and longer lasting, and they seem to typically perform better overall.

You often see AGM batteries being used not just for RVs, but also for Harleys, boats, trolling motors and more. That’s probably because AGM batteries self-discharge at a slower pace than flooded batteries, as well as handle higher temperatures.

One important thing to know about AGM batteries is that they are sensitive to overcharging. That’s really the only negative they have compared to the other types.

If we’ve helped you to decide that an AGM battery for your RV is the right choice, then we recommend the VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery (available at Amazon). We think that it is the best battery for RV to hold a charge from solar cells.

Sale

VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery: High Capacity & Maintenance Free Deep Cycle Battery for Golf Carts, Solar Energy, Wind Energy.

• 9.5"*7.3"*11"h Heavy Duty 6V AGM DEEP CYCLE BATTERY with Float Service Life span of 8 to 10 years.
• Electrolyte Suspension system VMAX tanks utilize an electrolyte suspension system consisting AGM (Absorbed Glass Matt) of a high porosity that totally absorb and contain the electrolyte. No silica gels or any other contaminants are used.
• Heavy Duty Grids: VMAX heavy duty lead tin alloys provide an extra margin of performance and service life in either float or cyclic applications, even after repeated over discharges.
• # Maintenance Free Operation: There is no need to check specific gravity of the electrolyte or add water to VMAX tanks during float service life. In fact, there is no provision for this type of maintenance.
• Visit Manufacturer's web site for further info vmaxtanks.com. Authorized Seller: bargainshore

$299.99 - $20.00 $279.99

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2019-05-22 at 05:17 / Affiliate disclosure / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About Lithium-Ion Deep Cycle Batteries

If you want something that offers better performance than the flooded and AGM types, then this is what you’re looking for right here. This type offers incredible charging efficiency, with an expected 3,000 to 5,000 life cycles.

This type works well in both cold and hot extreme temperatures, with a lot of performance efficiency at super low temperatures compared to the other types.

This type can also be mounted and installed in any direction, which is perfect for the RVer who needs some versatility.

Of course the downside to this type is the high cost, but due to the long life span this type does offer a good value for the money, despite the price tag.

If you’re interested in getting this type for your RV, then we think that one of the best RV lithium deep-cycle batteries for the money right now is the Battle Born Batteries 100 Ah LiFePO4 12 volt Deep Cycle Battery (available at Amazon). It’s our #1 pick for the best lithium ion deep cycle battery for your RV.

100 Ah LiFePO4 12 Volt Deep Cycle Battery

• 12 volt Drop in Lead Acid Replacement
• 100 amp continuous output
• 200 amp surge output - 30 seconds 1/2 second surge output for higher loads
• 8 year full replacement warranty and 2 year prorated
• 3000-5000 cycles - Acceptable Charging voltages 14.4 to 14.6 volts

from $999.00

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2019-05-22 at 05:17 / Affiliate disclosure / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About Gel Deep Cycle Batteries

We’re not really fans of using Gel batteries for your RV. While there are some people who swear by them, we don’t recommend them because they have to be charged at a slower rate. And if you aren’t doing it slow enough, then you can damage them.

Honestly, it is really just too easy to damage a gel RV battery and that is why we don’t think that you should use this type in your RV. For that reason, we’re not even going to recommend one for you to consider.

Our Deep Cycle RV Battery Reviews

Now that you know a bit more about all the different types of deep cycle batteries that you can buy for your RV, let our editors share some of their favorite options with you. Below you’ll find reviews on some of the top RV batteries for the money right now (according to our editors). So, if you’re still not sure which one is the best choice for you, then take a look at these reviews and see if they can help you to make a decision.

VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery – Our #1 Pick

Hands down, this one right here is the number one choice from each of our editors and reviewers. Yes, it is a 6-volt battery and we think that it is the best choice for your trip, especially if you’re looking for high-capacity deep cycle batteries for dry camping. Based on our editor ratings, we rate the VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery (<–click to view at Amazon) as the best 6-volt golf cart AGM deep cycle battery currently on the market for RV owners like you and me.

How many of these do we recommend that you buy for your RV travels? Well, we suggest that you go with at least 6 of these if you plan on running everything in the RV off the batteries. Obviously, more is better, so if you can afford it then go with more than six of them.

What’s the life span for these batteries? You’re looking at easily getting around 8 years to 10 years from these, which you can see is a great value for the money.

Why 6-volt AGM golf cart batteries? There are three 2.1v cells in the 6-volt battery. The 6-volt battery has more space per cells and the plates are thicker and will last longer. The 6 volt will be able to discharge deeper than any 12-volt deep cycle. Two 6 volt batteries will give you a lot higher amperage than one 12V battery. Leading advantages of AGM are a charge that is up to FIVE times faster than the flooded version. AGM offers a depth-of-discharge of 80 percent; the flooded, on the other hand, is specified at 50 percent DoD to attain the same cycle life. The AGM battery is also able to be installed in any orientation and stand up well to very LOW TEMPERATURES.

Best thing about these? Maintenance Free Operation. There is no need to check specific gravity of the electrolyte or add water to VMAX tanks during float service life. In fact, there is no provision for this type of maintenance.

Plus, their performance in low temperature conditions is consistent and superb.

What else can you use these for in addition to your RV? Trolling Motor, wheelchair, solar, mobility and commercial cleaning and construction equipment batteries capable of very high deep cycles and high reserve capacities

Trojan 6-Volt T-105 225Ah Flooded Deep Cycle Battery

If you still want a golf cart battery, but prefer to go with a flooded option instead of an AGM option, then this right here gets top marks from our editors and reviewers. Obviously, one of the things that makes this a great choice for RV campers is that Trojan is probably the most well-known golf cart battery brand and they’ve built a strong reputation on high quality products, like this one.

Keep in mind – flooded lead-acid batteries have the longest track record in solar electric use and are still used in the majority of stand-alone alternative energy systems. They have the longest life and the least cost per amp-hour of any of the choices. However the other side of the coin is, in order to enjoy these advantages, they require regular maintenance in the form of watering, equalizing charges and keeping the top and terminals clean

Overall, this battery has a good cycle life and you can expect it to last you around 10 years or so if you keep up on the regular maintenance for it.