Solar Setup Guide for Overlanding — Rooftop to Full Off-Grid

A proper camp power setup changes the overlanding experience completely. Here's how to approach it.

## Step 1 — Know Your Load

Before buying anything, add up what you actually run:

• 12V Fridge: 4–8A average (most common camp load)


• Lights: 1–2A for LED strips


• Phone / Tablet charging: 1–2A


• Laptop: 3–5A via 12V adapter


• CPAP: 2–4A (12V versions available)

Multiply amps × hours per day = Ah/day. Size your battery for 2× that number.

## Step 2 — Battery Choice

| Type | Pros | Cons |
|------|------|------|
| AGM | Cheap, known tech | Heavy, 50% usable, shorter life |
| Lithium LiFePO4 | Lightweight, 80–90% usable, 2000+ cycles | Higher upfront cost |

For overlanding, lithium is worth it if you can afford it.

## Step 3 — Charging Sources

1. DC-DC charger from alternator — only charges when engine runs, protects start battery
2. Solar panels — ideal for stationary camps
3. Shore power (campsite hookup) — bring an AC charger

## Step 4 — Wiring

Use appropriately sized cable (under-sizing cables causes fires). General rule: 6mm² for up to 30A runs under 3m.

## Popular SA Brands

Victron, Renogy, Pylontech (batteries), Enertec, and the local brand Mecer all have SA-based support.

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Post your setup photos and specs below — the community learns from real-world examples!