System Design
Best 12V Setup for Off-Grid Campervan
Complete guide to designing the perfect 12V offgrid electrical system for your campervan. Learn the essential components (lithium battery, solar panels, MPPT controller, DC-DC charger), how they work together, power flow, and why Victron Energy is the best choice for reliability.
This guide covers the best 12V offgrid setup for campervans including recommended product specifications, component sizing, and integration to create a reliable system for independent living while parked or driving.
The Complete Offgrid 12V System
A proper 12V offgrid setup includes these essential components:
Lithium Battery
100-400Ah depending on your needs
Solar Panels
200-400W for true offgrid independence
MPPT Controller
Charges battery from solar safely
DC-DC Charger
Charges battery while driving (Orion 50A)
Fuse Board
Protects all circuits with proper breakers
Battery Monitor
Victron SmartShunt or BMV 712 for tracking
Our Recommended Setup (Full-Time Offgrid)
Battery
300Ah Lithium
18kWh usable
Solar
400W Panels
MPPT 100/30
Charger
Orion 12/12-30
While driving
Monitoring
SmartShunt
Via app
Power Flow Explained
While Driving (Engine Running)
Engine → Alternator → DC-DC Charger → Leisure Battery
Your DC-DC charger tops up the leisure battery from engine power while you drive
During the Day (Parked)
Solar Panels → MPPT → Leisure Battery
Solar panels charge your battery while you camp
All the Time (Night/Cloudy)
Leisure Battery → Fuse Board → Your 12V Appliances
Your battery powers everything until recharged
Why Victron Energy?
We use Victron because:
- Proven reliability after 10+ years in campervans
- Smart monitoring via VictronConnect app
- Can be integrated with solar, DC-DC, and battery monitors
- Built-in protection and safety features
- Best resale value if you sell your van
Our Pre-Designed Kits
We offer complete kits tailored to different lifestyles:
Design Your Perfect System
Every campervan is unique. We design custom systems based on your power needs, van size, and lifestyle.