Collection: Power & Electrical Systems
Set up your caravan's 12V power system with practical electrical products for touring, camping and off-grid use. Our caravan electrical range includes DC-to-DC chargers, inverters, solar equipment, 12V sockets, USB charging outlets, switches and other electrical accessories for caravans and RVs.
Whether you're adding a charging point, upgrading your battery charging setup or building a more capable off-grid power system, choosing the right equipment starts with understanding your caravan's existing electrical system and what you need to run. Check voltage, current ratings, power requirements and compatibility on the individual product page before ordering.
Caravan 12V Power & Electrical Systems
Caravan 12V Power and Electrical Systems
A good caravan electrical setup should give you reliable power for the equipment you actually use, whether you're plugged in at a caravan park or spending a few days away from mains power.
DC-to-DC Battery Chargers
A DC-to-DC charger is commonly used to charge an auxiliary or caravan battery while travelling. When choosing one, check its input and output requirements, charging capacity and compatibility with your battery setup.
Caravan Inverters
An inverter converts DC battery power into AC power for compatible appliances and equipment. The inverter needs to be selected around the load you intend to run as well as the capacity of the battery system supplying it.
Caravan Solar
Solar can help put energy back into your caravan battery system while you're away from mains power. Panel output is only one part of the setup, so the solar charging equipment, battery capacity and your daily power use also need to be considered.
12V Sockets, USB Outlets and Switches
Smaller electrical accessories make it easier to use power where you need it around the caravan. 12V accessory sockets, USB charging outlets and switches can be useful additions when replacing existing fittings or setting up new charging and accessory points.
Choosing the Right Caravan Power Equipment
Choosing the Right Caravan Power Equipment
Before buying electrical equipment, think about what job you need it to do. A USB socket, DC-to-DC charger, solar panel and inverter all form different parts of a caravan electrical setup.
| Product Type | Main Job | What to Check |
|---|---|---|
| DC-to-DC Charger | Charges an auxiliary battery while travelling | Voltage, charging current, battery compatibility and input requirements |
| Inverter | Converts battery power for compatible AC appliances | Continuous output, appliance load, battery capacity and cabling requirements |
| Solar Panel | Generates power from sunlight | Wattage, available mounting space and charging-system compatibility |
| 12V Accessory Socket | Provides a power connection for compatible 12V accessories | Voltage, current rating, mounting size and wiring |
| USB Socket | Charges compatible phones and USB devices | Input voltage, USB output and mounting requirements |
| Switch | Controls compatible lights and electrical accessories | Voltage, current rating, wiring and mounting dimensions |
Electrical equipment should be selected as part of the complete system rather than by one specification alone. If you're planning a larger upgrade involving batteries, solar, charging and an inverter, work out your expected power use before choosing the equipment.
What to Check Before Buying
What to Check Before Buying Caravan Electrical Equipment
Caravan electrical systems can vary considerably, so check your existing setup and the requirements of the new equipment before ordering.
Check the Voltage
Don't assume every caravan electrical product operates at the same voltage. Check the input and output specifications on the individual product page and make sure they're suitable for your system.
Work Out Your Power Requirements
If you're choosing an inverter, charger or solar equipment, consider what you're trying to power or charge. An occasional phone charger has very different requirements from a setup running larger appliances away from mains power.
Check Current and Power Ratings
Electrical equipment, switches, sockets, cables, fuses and circuit protection all need to be appropriately rated for the circuit they're being used in.
Check Battery Compatibility
If a product charges or connects to your battery system, check its compatibility with the battery type and electrical setup already fitted to your caravan.
Check Installation Space
Measure the available space before ordering an inverter, charger, solar panel or recessed electrical accessory. Remember to allow enough room for wiring, ventilation and access where required.
Use Appropriate Circuit Protection
Fuses, circuit breakers and suitable cable sizes are important parts of a safe electrical installation. The requirements depend on the equipment, cable length and current involved.
Get Professional Advice Where Required
Electrical work can involve high currents and, in some systems, 240V AC. If you're unsure about wiring, cable sizing, circuit protection or installation requirements, use a suitably qualified professional. Work involving 240V must meet applicable Australian electrical requirements.
Caravan Electrical FAQs
Caravan Power and Electrical FAQs
What is a 12V system in a caravan?
A caravan 12V system uses battery power to operate compatible equipment such as lights, water pumps, fans, USB outlets and other 12V accessories. The exact setup varies between caravans.
What does a DC-to-DC charger do in a caravan?
A DC-to-DC charger is commonly used to charge an auxiliary or caravan battery from a vehicle charging source while travelling. Depending on the charger, it may also support solar input and different battery types.
Do I need an inverter in my caravan?
You generally need an inverter if you want to operate compatible AC appliances from your battery system when mains power isn't available. If everything you use operates directly from 12V or USB power, you may not need one.
What size inverter do I need for my caravan?
That depends on the appliances you want to run. Check their power requirements and consider both normal running load and any higher start-up demand. Your battery, cabling and electrical system also need to support the inverter.
Can a solar panel charge my caravan battery?
Yes, when used as part of a suitable solar charging system. The amount of useful energy generated depends on panel capacity, sunlight, installation, charging equipment and other conditions.
Can I add more USB sockets to my caravan?
Compatible 12V USB outlets can be added to many caravan electrical systems, but the circuit, wiring and protection need to be suitable for the additional outlet and expected load.
What's the difference between a 12V socket and a USB socket?
A 12V accessory socket supplies power to compatible 12V equipment through an accessory-style plug. A USB socket provides the regulated USB output required by compatible phones and other USB devices.
Can I install caravan electrical accessories myself?
Simple 12V work still needs the correct wiring, cable sizing, fusing and connections. More complex systems should be installed by someone with the appropriate knowledge and experience. Work involving 240V should be carried out by an appropriately licensed electrical professional.
Is a bigger solar panel always better?
Not necessarily. The panel needs to suit the available space and the rest of the charging system. Your battery capacity, solar controller and typical daily power use all need to be considered.
