Power Options for Your Rig: Choosing the Best Setup for Life on the Road

When it comes to powering your rig, you have several options to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. I’ll cover some of the most common choices and share my personal favorites along the way.

Shore Power (Plugging In)

If you’re staying at a campground or moochdocking (parked at a friend’s property), shore power is a reliable option that provides virtually unlimited electricity. Depending on the hookup available, you may need heavy-duty RV adapters for 30- or 50-amp connections. In simpler cases, a good-quality extension cord with a multi-plug adapter can get the job done.

Important Tips for Extension Cords

• Invest in a high-quality, heavy-duty cord with a durable plug.
• Inspect used cords carefully for scorch marks, cuts, or other damage before use.
• Handle with care—don’t drop it from heights, step on it, or let anything heavy sit on it.

While shore power is a fantastic option, it isn’t always available and can sometimes be costly. If you’re moochdocking, be considerate—use power modestly and consider offering $5 per day as a thank-you.

• Pros: Unlimited power, no installation needed
• Cons: Requires access to hookups, can incur costs, cords/adapters take up storage space

Solar Power

Solar setups can range from $100 to $18,000, making them a complex topic. If you’re considering a full system, I strongly recommend consulting a professional. Sojournersway is a great starting point for advice.

For a Simpler Solar Setup:

• Solar-powered lights – Perfect for illuminating your rig at night with minimal effort.
• Solar battery banks – Great for charging phones, laptops, or hearing aids. Keep in mind they won’t power high-energy appliances like a coffee maker or AC.
• Portable solar devices – Items like rechargeable fans and immersion blenders are small, convenient, and versatile.

Just remember, solar power requires planning—make sure to recharge devices during sunny days and have a backup for cloudy periods.

• Pros: Easy to use, portable, versatile
• Cons: Upfront costs, not always long-lasting, dependent on sunlight

Gas/Diesel Generators

If you’re thinking about getting a generator, be prepared for some trade-offs. While they provide substantial power without needing sun or shore power, they are noisy, require maintenance, and aren’t well-loved by neighbors.

The Honda EU2200i is one of the best models out there, but it comes with a price tag of around $1,200.

Generator Best Practices:

• Position it away from your rig to prevent noxious fumes.
• Be mindful of your neighbors—don’t run it near others, especially at night.
• Use it sparingly, ideally just to recharge batteries during emergencies.
• Pros: Provides ample power, independent of shore or solar
• Cons: Noisy, disruptive, requires maintenance, expensive, heavy

Large Battery Banks

Beyond small battery packs, larger battery banks offer more power and flexibility. Brands like Anker, Jackery, Bluetti, and Goal Zero have great options, with Anker currently being a top pick in terms of performance and reliability.

These power stations range in size from a breadbox to a cooler and often include multiple charging options like AC outlets, USB ports, and solar compatibility. However, larger models can weigh over 100 lbs.

Battery Bank Tips:

• Portable charging – You can wheel them to an outlet, another rig, or a pavilion for recharging.
• Size considerations – The bigger the battery, the more charging capacity you’ll need.
• Brand compatibility – Sticking with one brand helps ensure cords and accessories all work together.

I personally use both a small and a large battery bank. If I can’t move the big one, I always have a 6-lb one handy for a quick charge on the go.

• Pros: Easy to use, no installation required, multiple charging methods, portable
• Cons: Can be expensive and heavy, requires recharging, not built-in

Final Thoughts

Each power option has its place, depending on your travel style and energy needs. I personally prefer using a mix of solar and battery banks for small items, while keeping a generator as a last resort. If you have access to shore power, it’s a great convenience, but it’s not always available.

By combining different power sources, you can stay flexible and prepared no matter where the road takes you!