Portable Power for Campervans & Motorhomes
Campervans, motorhomes and camping trips often involve staying in places where mains electricity isn’t available. A portable power station offers a quiet, battery-powered way to run everyday devices while travelling — but choosing the right size is essential.
This guide explains how portable power stations are commonly used in campervans, motorhomes and camping setups, what they can realistically power, and how to choose the right capacity without overbuying or falling short.
🚐 Quick way to choose the right setup
Use our UK Power Calculator to estimate runtimes based on typical campervan or camping usage.
What can a portable power station run in a campervan or motorhome?
A suitably sized portable power station can support many common travel and leisure essentials, including:
- 12V or compressor fridges
- Interior LED lighting
- Mobile phones and tablets
- Laptops and cameras
- Wi-Fi routers and mobile hotspots
- Small kitchen appliances (model dependent)
Note: Runtime depends on the battery capacity of the power station and the combined power draw of devices being used.
Typical campervan and camping power scenarios
Overnight stop or short stay
Many travellers want to keep essentials running overnight, such as:
- Fridge cycling on and off
- Lighting
- Phone charging
A compact to mid-size portable power station is usually sufficient for this type of use.
Weekend camping or touring trips
For longer stays, power needs often expand to include:
- Fridge
- Laptops or tablets
- Camera or drone charging
- Occasional small appliance use
A mid-capacity power station provides a good balance of portability and runtime.
Extended off-grid travel with recharging
For longer off-grid trips, combining a power station with solar or vehicle charging allows:
- Daytime recharging
- Longer stays without campsite hook-ups
- Greater flexibility while touring
This approach is popular with campervan and motorhome users travelling off-grid for multiple days.
What portable power stations are not designed to run
To avoid disappointment, it’s important to understand the limits of portable power stations. Most are not intended for:
- Electric heaters or air conditioning
- Electric showers
- Large cooking appliances with sustained high wattage
Some high-power devices may run briefly on certain models, but they are not suitable for long-duration use.
How to choose the right size for your setup
The most common mistake is choosing a power station that is either too small to be practical or far larger than is actually needed. Using a calculator based on real-world usage helps avoid both.
Find the right setup for your usage →
Recommended portable power options
Most campervan and camping users look for a balance of portability, runtime and flexible recharging.
🚐 Campervan & Motorhome Power
Curated power stations suited to touring and off-grid travel.
🔋 Portable Power Stations
Compare models by capacity, portability and general use.
🏕️ Camping & Outdoor Power
Compact power options for weekend trips and outdoor use.
These recommendations are based on typical leisure and travel usage rather than emergency-only scenarios.
Are portable power stations suitable for campervans?
For many travellers, yes. Portable power stations offer:
- Quiet operation with no fumes
- Safe indoor use
- No installation required
- Flexible use across different trips
- A clean alternative to fuel generators
Delivery, authenticity and reassurance
- UK stock with tracked delivery
- Genuine Bluetti products backed by manufacturer warranty
- Clear returns and UK-based customer support
Frequently asked questions
Can a portable power station run a campervan fridge?
Yes. Many mid-capacity models can run a fridge for extended periods, depending on efficiency and usage.
Are portable power stations safe to use inside a vehicle?
Yes. Portable power stations produce no fumes and are designed for indoor use when used as instructed.
Do I need solar panels for camping use?
Not always. Many users recharge via mains or vehicle charging, with solar used for longer off-grid stays.
What if I choose the wrong size?
Choosing the right size matters. Using a calculator or guidance helps avoid under- or over-buying.
✅ Power your next trip with confidence
Choosing the right portable power station makes travelling more comfortable, flexible and stress-free.