10 Best RV Batteries For Boondocking (2022 Review)

1. ExpertPower 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery

Lithium batteries were pretty difficult to obtain not too long ago, making them out of reach for many boondockers due to the high cost. Today, companies are now producing these batteries and have made them significantly more affordable for the public.

The ExpertPower LiFePO4 is one of the latest products offered by the brand. Being one of the top lead-acid batteries for sale on Amazon, it offers a longer service life with a total lifetime of up to ten years. This feature is a huge step up from most of the lead-acid chemistry batteries out there that only last for three years.

The battery is also known to be highly efficient in terms of supplying power. Its flat discharge curve is capable of holding more than 12 volts to nearly full capacity usage. Again, when compared to most lead-acid batteries, I found the ExpertPower LiFePO4 to have a higher run time.

In terms of physical bulk, the battery is very lightweight. In fact, it weighs just 22.6 pounds, which is light enough to slip in your luggage if you have to. Such a feature makes the ExpertPower LiFePO4 one of the best batteries for boondocking since mobility is one of the priorities when dry camping.

Since it’s rechargeable, the battery offers a built-in battery management system (BMS). The BMS provides additional protection to the product from deep discharging, overcharging, overheating, short-circuiting, and overloading. No wonder BMS is considered a critical safety E/E system, even in automobiles.

For people living in climates that have temperatures higher than 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the ExpertPower LiFePO4 makes for a great RV battery. However, you may also use it in cold areas, granted that you use temperature sensors and solar controllers for low-temperature cut-off.

Pros of the ExpertPower LiFePO4

• Its long battery life of ten years makes it one of the best deep cycle RV batteries while being able to handle as much as 7,000 recharge and discharge cycles.
• Weighing just 22.6 pounds, the LiFePO4 is one of the lightest batteries for boondocking you can purchase.
• The flat discharge curve of the battery allows it to hold a charge longer while minimizing the chances of discharge.

Cons of the ExpertPower LiFePO4

• The battery is not the best to use in cold weather as it is built to operate only in places with temperatures above 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Compared to other RV batteries on the market, the LiFePO4 is one of the priciest options available despite its great features.

2. Optima D75/25 YellowTop Battery

The Optima D75/25 YellowTop battery is another great choice for boondocking. The YellowTop series from Optima makes use of absorbent glass mat (AGM) technology, which is known for its high-performance capabilities.

This boondocking battery is also dual-purpose, which means that it can work as both a starter and deep cycle battery at the same time. I like the premium cranking power offered by the D75/25 YellowTop battery, including its excellent cycling capacity. These features make the battery one of the best choices for any type of RV.

Whether you are using high-demand electronics and appliances, you can rely on the D75/25 YellowTop battery to provide you with the power you need.

Additionally, the battery incorporates SpiralCell technology with two plates made of pure lead. This combination allows the battery more precision control at a higher cost. The battery also weighs just about 43.5 pounds, which isn’t too much when dry camping.

The reserve capacity of the battery can last up to 120 minutes while its fast recharge rate makes it an ideal choice for long trips.

Pros of the Optima D75/25 YellowTop Battery

• The D75/25 YellowTop battery offers great starting power for any weather condition.
• The battery has an excellent reserve capacity of up to 120 minutes, which can be very handy in scenarios where you need power but cannot yet connect to another power source.
• Weighing just below 45 pounds, the battery is easy to move around when needed.

Cons of the Optima D75/25 YellowTop Battery

• Compared to its competitors, the D75/25 YellowTop battery is a lot smaller and may slide around its base during use.
• The battery may not be ideal for heavy-duty use such as with winching.

3. Renogy 12V 100Ah Rechargeable Deep Cycle Pure Gel Battery

A deep cycle battery capable of handling harsh environments, this pure gel battery from Renogy is another great choice for boondocking. The battery incorporates vital security measures that allow it to continue running in even the wettest, hottest, and sandiest of places.

The Renogy pure gel battery is known for its triplex sealed construction, which I found is highly strong and valve-regulated around its terminals. Its structure prevents electrolyte leakage while guaranteeing its integrity in standard operating conditions. Furthermore, the battery also stops air from going inside its base for additional safety.

The pure gel battery offers long service life and is ideal for heavy-duty use. In fact, it is said to last up to ten years on standby use under optimal conditions.

The battery has lead-calcium grids that protect it from mild corrosion. Due to this, it has quite a low self-discharge rate and can be very reliable for boondocking. At standard room temperature, I have found the battery to have a self-discharge ratio of 3% per month of its total capacity.

As mentioned earlier, the battery is equipped with security features such as explosion-proof safety valves that prevent any redundant gases from being produced. Furthermore, the structure of the battery is fire-proof, eliminating the chances that it could catch fire from sparks.

Pros of the Renogy Pure Gel Battery

• The long shelf life of this battery allows it to last up to ten years when not in use and stored in the right conditions.
• The battery has a low self-discharge ratio that allows it to maintain a charge despite not being hooked up for quite some time.
• Utilizing explosion-proof safety valves, the Renogy pure gel battery minimizes the buildup of dangerous gases that could result in battery explosions.

Cons of the Renogy Pure Gel Battery

• Compared to other batteries for boondocking, the Renogy pure gel battery can be quite cumbersome and difficult to move around by yourself.
• Due to its weight and bulk, the battery can also be hard to install and remove.

4. VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery

The VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM battery has several advantages over its competitors, but its overall durability is one of its best features. The battery is known to last between eight to ten years while providing top-notch performance throughout its lifespan.

For boondockers like me, the battery seems to be a great choice already. Its excellent durability can be attributed to its heavy-duty lead-tin alloy structure that helps ensure it can handle bumps and rough terrain during transportation.

The VMAXTANKS battery’s design is leak and spill-free, allowing owners to set up the item in almost any position they need it to be. Besides its durability, this is another aspect that makes VMAXTANKS batteries ideal for boondocking.

Furthermore, the model offers great flexibility. You can use it with either solar or wind energy, which is great for dry camping in the wild for a long time. In fact, you can stay outside for several months with this battery as your only source of power.

This battery is considered to be easy to maintain, ensuring buyers that no regular repairs or replacements are necessary during use. I find that the battery lets you enjoy your trip more rather than worrying about potential problems that may happen after extensive use.

That is why I added the battery to this list as one of the top RV batteries you can have for boondocking.

Pros of the VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery

• The battery is highly durable and can last for up to ten years while providing top-tier performance.
• Attesting to its impressive durability is the battery’s capability to withstand rough bumps and terrains during transportation.
• The battery is very flexible since it can be used with either wind or solar energy as needed.

Cons of the VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery

• AGM batteries tend to be heavy and can be difficult to transport by just one person.
• The battery can be slow to charge and may also suffer from large discharge rates.

5. Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery

Another lithium battery on this list that is also very lightweight is the Battle Born LiFePO4 deep cycle battery. The battery is said to follow green practices and is made from 100% renewable energy.

Its green capability means that the battery can last for many cycles and can be repeatedly charged and discharged. Compared to its competition, the battery also charges very fast.

Weighing just 31 pounds, the battery has no acid inside, making it safe to install in any position desired. This can be especially useful when boondocking with an RV since you usually have to adapt to your environment.

Just like the ExpertPower battery, this one also has a built-in BMS that protects the product from battery failures such as ground faults and temperature volatility. The system also stabilizes the power used in the battery while acting as a shut-off system for additional safety.

Compared to most lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion ones tend to be more cost-effective due to having an exceptionally long lifespan. Finally, the battery offers countless mounting capabilities while being safer to use than lead-acid models.

Pros of the Battle Born LiFePO4

• Using green technology, the battery is non-toxic and safe to use in various situations.
• Its built-in battery management system ensures the safest and most efficient operation for boondocking.
• The Battle Born LiFePO4 recharges faster than most of its competitors.

Cons of the Battle Born LiFePO4

• The housing of the Battle Born LiFePO4 is quite brittle and can be damaged easily when dropped.
• The battery lacks a handle which makes it hard to install and transport.

6. Weize 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle Battery

When looking for an affordable deep cycle battery, you might want to check out the Weize 12V 100Ah model. This battery is ideal for off-grid use due to its ability to incorporate solar panels while making it perfect for recreational vehicles.

The boondocking battery has a heavy-duty calcium-alloy grid that adds to its performance. Meanwhile, this feature also means that the battery can have a longer life for both cycling and floating applications.

Similar to others in this list, the 12-volt Weize deep cycle battery uses absorbent glass mat technology with a design that is valve regulated. This allows the device to be used in indoor and other enclosed environments without having to worry about constant maintenance or leaking.

However, the battery has a total weight of 57 pounds, which is heavier than the other listed batteries for boondocking. It offers a great amperage of 100 amp hours that makes it ideal for dry camping needs.

Pros of the Weize 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle Battery

• If you are looking for an affordable deep cycle battery with good amperage, this Weize battery is one of the most cost-effective on the market today.
• The battery boasts 100 amp hours total, which makes it ideal for long-term boondocking.
• With its calcium-alloy grid, the Weize deep cycle battery can have a long service life while guaranteeing stable performance throughout.

Cons of the Weize 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle Battery

• Due to being affordable, the battery lacks some security measures that can protect users during operation.
• Compared to its competitors, the battery has a short shelf life when not in use.

7. Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle Battery

A very versatile deep cycle battery, the Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah battery is known for its adaptability due to its universal mount. This allows boondockers to install the battery almost anywhere they need it.

Dry campers don’t have to worry about following a strict guideline with this battery. In fact, you’ll be surprised to know how easy the installation process can be thanks to the universal mount. Following the product manual is a breeze and I highly recommend this product for those who are new to batteries for boondocking.

What also impressed me with this product is that it is both spill and shock-proof. This means that you can place it at almost any angle without worrying about spills and transport it over rough terrain. You can expect the battery to maintain its integrity even after enduring some bumps while traveling.

Another great thing with this battery from Universal Power Group is its capability to handle outside temperatures. The manufacturer designed the product to be less sensitive to temperature compared to lithium models, making it charge quite well even when outdoors.

However, the handles of the battery are made of thin plastic that can be quite fragile when you need to transport it. In fact, some users said that their handles broke upon moving their batteries, so keep an eye out for that when purchasing this one.

Pros of the Universal Power Group Deep Cycle Battery

• Comes with a universal mount that makes the battery highly adaptable for almost any application.
• The installation process for this boondocking battery is very easy and is ideal for beginners.
• The battery can withstand varying outside temperatures better than its lithium counterparts.

Cons of the Universal Power Group Deep Cycle Battery

• The battery handles are flimsy and can break while being carried.
• Customer service for the brand could use some improvement.

8. ODYSSEY PC680 Boondocking Battery

The ODYSSEY PC680 battery is one of the most durable options on this list. Its rugged build and use of pure lead plates seem like a great choice if you want a battery that can operate for the long term.

These lead plates are excellent in dealing with vibrations and shocks that are prevalent when dry camping. The product is also capable of producing twice the power compared to regular batteries thanks to the plates it has installed.

Besides its sturdiness, other design aspects add up to its excellent durability. Its high integrity terminal seal, corrosion resistance, and AGM design ensure that this is one of the best batteries for boondocking you can have.

Another aspect that can sway you to buy the ODYSSEY battery is its recharging process. It can fully charge in four to six hours, which is faster than other sealed lead batteries out there.

Furthermore, the ODYSSEY battery can handle weather-related concerns because of its ruggedness. In fact, it can tolerate extreme temperatures, which makes for a great battery to have when you’re boondocking for a few months.

Keep in mind, however, that the ODYSSEY PC680 battery does not support solar power use. This means that you cannot attach solar panels to recharge the battery as needed.

Furthermore, the battery is a bit smaller than others on this list. Users may have to use foam when setting up to make it fit tightly.

Pros of the ODYSSEY PC680 Battery

• One of the most durable batteries for boondocking available out there.
• Uses pure lead plates that allow the battery to absorb vibrations and shock better than other designs.
• The battery can withstand extreme temperatures.

Cons of the ODYSSEY PC680 Battery

• The ODYSSEY PC680 battery does not support the use of solar panels.
• The battery itself may need foam to keep it snug.

9. WindyNation 100Ah 12V AGM Deep Cycle Battery

The BattaMax Battery Series manufactured by WindyNation is made with a battery capable of providing power to RVs while staying relatively affordable. Their 12-volt 100Ah deep cycle battery is tightly sealed and non-spill, which makes it easy to use and relatively maintenance-free.

It uses heavy-duty plates to keep vital parts protected while not adding too much additional weight to the product. In fact, the battery weighs only 66 pounds, making it quite easy to transport for most people without assistance.

However, those who need to carry the battery far can use its detachable carry strap for convenience. This unit comes with two protectors for its terminals so you can rest easy knowing the battery is safe to use in your RV.

Pros of the WindyNation 100AH 12V AGM Deep Cycle Battery

• The AGM design of the battery allows it to take on repetitive recharges without suffering any performance issues.
• Since it is spill-free and sealed, the battery is relatively maintenance-free upon purchase.
• This battery from WindyNation is one of the best batteries for boondocking on a budget.

Cons of the WindyNation 100AH 12V AGM Deep Cycle Battery

• The battery can eventually be more difficult to charge to full power the longer it is used.
• The design for its hub terminals can be short and close to the battery case, which can make hooking difficult.

10. Optima D34M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Marine Battery

Last but definitely not least is the Optima BlueTop starting and deep cycle marine battery. The battery has one of the most portable designs on this list and weighs only 43.5 pounds, making it relatively easy to carry around.

The Optima D34M BlueTop battery can be mounted in almost any position. You’d be surprised at how easy it is to go through the installation and setup process for this battery.

Additionally, the battery offers a reserve capacity of 120 minutes, ensuring that the device can provide sufficient power when needed.

Pros of the Optima D34M BlueTop Battery

• The battery is easy to carry around due to weighing only 43.5 pounds.
• It is capable of withstanding vibrations caused by bumpy roads and other extreme scenarios.
• Offers 120 minutes of reserve capacity for long-term boondocking.

Cons of the Optima D34M BlueTop Battery

• The battery can be a bit easy to damage due to its fragile housing.