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Tech Spotlight: All About Lithium RV Batteries
Over the past decade, battery technology has evolved rapidly. And with that evolution comes a vocabulary reminiscent of high-school chemistry class: Lithium, iron, phosphate—better known as (LiFePO4). Lithium is the primary component here, while the other elements make these new-gen batteries arguably safer on the road than tech that’s been around for awhile.
“This has changed exponentially in the last 10 years,” says Tyler Bourns, chief marketing officer at Dragonfly Energy, which brought one of the first lithium RV batteries to market. “A decade ago, lithium wasn’t really on the radar for campers, but now we have power that can open up people’s worlds.”
Lithium batteries have key advantages for RVers: They’re lighter than their lead acid counterparts, they hold a charge longer (the overall lifespan is also much longer) and they’re less likely to be damaged when drained completely. And while they’re not cheap, they can power more appliances and keep you off grid for longer stretches.
Here, four popular lithium RV batteries—and what makes them ideal for creatures of the road.
Photo Credit: Battle Born
Battle Born: 100-Amp-Hour 12-Volt LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
The flagship lithium battery from Dragonfly Energy, the Battle Born weighs just 31 pounds and comes with a 10-year warranty. One of the most trusted batteries in the RV space, these come standard on new Airstream models and other rigs. $749
Photo Credit: Royer
Royer Batteries: Micro 12-Volt 320-Amp-Hour Smart Heated LiFePO4 Battery
Because lithium batteries typically cannot be charged at low temperatures, manufacturers like Royer offer built-in heating so campers can retain power when the mercury plunges. Plus, thanks to Bluetooth compatibility, users can monitor real-time usage on their phones. $1,820
Photo Credit: Go Power!
Go Power! Sun Cycle 100-Amp-Hour Lithium Iron Phosphate Solar Battery
Designed for compatibility with Go Power!’s mobile solar systems, the Sun Cycle battery is only 24 pounds while also offering Bluetooth monitoring, internal heating and a built-in temperature monitoring system. $1,250
Photo Credit: Renogy
Renogy: 12-Volt 200-Amp-Hour Core Series Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
One of the most powerful lithium batteries, the Renogy’s Core Series is rated for 5,000 cycles (the number of times you can run it down to zero and recharge), and can easily be tied into other batteries to convert the 12-volt system to 24 or 48 volts. $1,379
There are numerous other lithium RV batteries on the market, beyond those listed above. But these are some of the best, most reliable options available today.
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-04-24
Alberta Good Sam Road Trip: Peace River Perfection
The Peace River, once a border between the Dane-zaa and Cree Nations, flows through northern British Columbia and Alberta, Canada. Road trippers make the journey to the Peace River region for once-in-a-lifetime experiences like whitewater rafting, ice fishing, wildlife spotting, and helicopter tours. Here in the Northern Rockies, even the view from the putting green is spectacular.
The trip starts in Edmonton and proceeds north — click on the numbered icon to follow the itinerary.
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2025-04-24
New From Thor: The Sanctuary Class B
There is no more difficult-to-keep-in-stock RV than a Class B Van. So when we had a chance to add the Thor Sanctuary®, we went for it. All in!
Rugged and versatile, the Sanctuary® is built on the Mercedes-Benz® Sprinter Van epitomizes luxury, reliability, and quality road travel. A Class B’s smaller size, nimble handling, and all-wheel drive capability make it effortless to maneuver and park so you can explore any destination on your bucket list.
Features
Safety is always top priority in any RV. And the Sanctuary is top notch, with attention assist, traffic sign assist, active lane keeping assist, and blind spot assist. But that’s far from all the Sanctuary has to offer.
The Sanctuary is built for the off-road side of RVing. The optional Thule® bike rack can hold your equipment. The top-mount LED light bar is built for those nighttime outdoor adventures.
Depending on your Sanctuary floor plan, you can relax post-hike under the Thule® lateral arm power patio awning or the armless awning, both with integrated LED lighting.
Add the optional off-road tire and wheel package to van for the ultimate camping experience.
Solar Package
Experience uninterrupted power wherever you roam thanks to the Re(Li)able® Power Pack electrical system! It includes a 6,210-watt lithium battery, a 3000-watt pure sine inverter/charger, and a 170-amp charging alternator, so there’s no need for a generator or LP tank.
Thanks to the 200-watt solar charging system with a solar charge controller, you can keep your house batteries charged and enjoy your adventures without worrying about running out of power. This Sprinter Van also has an exterior solar panel connection for those who want extra solar energy solutions.
Your off-grid adventures just got a whole lot more exciting!
The Sanctuary Interior
The Sanctuary can sleep 2-3 adventurers with plenty of room. Pack everything from hiking equipment to warm blankets in the roomy upper cabinets, which boast sleek Euro-style doors for a luxurious indoor feel. Then say goodbye to dirt and mud with Sanctuary’s vinyl flooring, perfect for post-adventure cleanup. The galley kitchen has everything you need to create tasty treats on the go, including a 12-volt single-door refrigerator, a single burner induction cooktop, and a microwave oven. For privacy, roll down the cassette shades and minimize noise with the soft close drawer guides in every floor plan.
If this sounds just too tempting to resist, start making your dreams a reality with a call to Poulsbo RV. We’ll set you up with a tour, test drive, and the Best Price around. So start dreaming big. We hope to see you soon.
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2025-04-23
RV Battery Basics: Lead-Acid, AGM, and Lithium
When it comes to powering your rig, choosing the right RV battery is crucial—they power your lights, refrigerator, water pump and other electrical components when you’re off the grid. There are three primary types of 12-volt batteries commonly used in RVs: lead-acid, AGM (absorbent glass mat) and lithium. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, making it important to understand which fits for your needs.
Photo Credit: Getty
Lead-Acid Batteries
The oldest and most common type of RV battery uses lead plates submerged in a sulfuric acid solution to create an electrochemical reaction. These are usually the cheapest option upfront, making them attractive for budget-conscious owners, and they obviously have a long history of reliability and performance. They’re easy to find.
Good to know: Lead-acid batteries are relatively large, heavy and typically last between three and five years, especially when subjected to deep discharges. Regular maintenance, such as checking fluid levels and cleaning terminals, is required to ensure the battery operates efficiently. Deep discharging (draining the battery to a level below 50 percent) can significantly reduce the lifespan of a lead-acid battery.
Photo: Odyssey Battery
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Batteries
This type of sealed lead-acid battery uses fiberglass mats to absorb and hold the electrolyte, preventing it from spilling. These products offer many of the benefits of traditional lead-acid batteries, but with some key improvements. AGM batteries are sealed and do not require the regular maintenance that traditional lead-acid batteries do. They can recharge more quickly compared to flooded lead-acid batteries—a huge benefit when you’re on the go. AGM batteries are more resistant to vibrations, making them ideal for RVs that travel over bumpy roads.
AGM batteries are designed to handle deep discharges better than traditional lead-acid batteries, providing more usable power. Because the electrolyte is absorbed in the glass mat, there’s no risk of spillage or leaks, even if the battery is tipped over. AGM batteries generally come with a higher price tag than traditional lead-acid options. Although they’re lighter than flooded lead-acid batteries, An AGM RV battery can still be heavy and bulky compared to lithium power cells. AGM batteries typically last around five to seven years, which is shorter than lithium options.
Photo Credit: Battle Born
Lithium Batteries
The newest and most advanced type of RV battery uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry, more efficient than the lead-based chemistry of other batteries. Lithium batteries can last 10 years or more with proper care, significantly longer than lead-acid and AGM options. Lithium batteries are much lighter than lead-acid and AGM batteries, and store more energy, making them easier to handle and more space efficient. They have a deeper depth of discharge (up to 80-90 percent), so more of total capacity can be used without damaging the battery. They require no maintenance. Lithium batteries charge more efficiently and quickly than traditional batteries.
The biggest drawback of lithium batteries: high upfront cost, sometimes significantly more than lead-acid or AGM batteries. Lithium batteries require a specifically compatible charger, which can add to the initial investment (although many RV power converters or inverters have a lithium charging setting along with lead-acid). Lithium batteries can perform poorly in extreme temperatures, especially very cold conditions. However, some lithium batteries come with built-in temperature management systems to mitigate this issue.
Conclusion
This choice comes down to your priority: cost, longevity, performance or weight. Lead-acid batteries are a budget-friendly option, but provide less power, need more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. AGM batteries offer a nice balance between performance and durability, with the added benefit of being maintenance-free. Lithium batteries stand out for longevity, efficiency and light weight, but cost more. Lead-acid is all you need if you usually camp connected to campground power. Lithium are best for long-term boondockers who camp off-grid using solar power or generators. AGM is probably best for folks who camp off-grid only occasionally.
Got more questions about your RV battery or another topic you’d like to see covered by our vehicle expert Ken Freund? Drop us note at knowhow@wildsam.com.
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-04-23
Ask an RV Expert: Questions on Solar Charging, Dealing with Rats, and More
Our RV expert answers some of your most pressing questions. Here are a few questions submitted by Wildsam readers.
Photo Credit: Getty
The Big Disconnect
Q: The last two times we had an RV shop do work on our 2024 Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro FBS 29 trailer, they returned the trailer to us with the battery switch in the OFF position. This made me think about long-term solar charging of our batteries. Our trailer has two 100-watt solar panels. In the cooler months, we don’t cover our trailer, which I think means the solar panels charge our batteries daily. When we don’t plan to use our trailer for at least a month, should I switch the batteries off? (Same question for warmer months, when we use a cloth trailer cover.) Also, when we plan to use the trailer within three weeks, I leave it connected to a 120-volt AC power source. Any issues?
—Robert Sigal, San Diego, CA
A: RVs have many “parasitic” electrical draws. If those are not offset by charging, they eventually discharge the battery(ies) in a few days or weeks. Solar panels, along with a good charge controller, can replenish that charge—if they are not covered up. I recommend that you determine if the solar-charging power is being fed to the battery before or after the shutoff switch. If the solar-charging output is connected directly to the battery, bypassing the shutoff switch, then it can charge even while the battery is disconnected from the rest of the RV. This is how it should be. (There should be an inline fuse to protect the wiring in case of a short.) When the trailer is covered, plug the coach into 120-volt AC power so the power converter can charge the battery bank. Alternatively, you could charge the battery with a maintenance charger.
Photo Credit: Zack Wittman
Rats vs. Wires
Q: I have a 2019 Jayco Redhawk with an Onan generator. Last year the generator would not run; it turned out that a rodent had gotten into the generator and damaged some wires. After an expensive repair, I left on a five-week cross-country trip. I used the generator once early in the trip and did not need it again until one of the last days. When I started it—nothing. Upon inspection, the compartment was packed with nesting material. All of my stops had been at commercial campgrounds or National Park campgrounds. What is the best way to prevent this?
—Robert Collins, Youngstown, NY
A: Rodent damage is a big problem nationwide! Sorry you had it happen twice. There are a number of solutions, some better than others. Some folks place trays of mothballs in the affected areas. However, generator engine heat may be a concern, and mothballs are only effective for a limited time. I suggest a product called Rid-a-Rat, or similar types of electronic deterrents. Some use self-contained batteries; others run off the RV’s 12-volt system. They don’t use a lot of power, but should not be left on for long periods without provision for maintenance charging the battery. Please let us know how it goes!
Photo Credit: Getty
Driving Us Nuts
Q: We have a 2023 travel trailer, and ran into an issue with wheel lugs. (I won’t mention the third-party manufacturer. It’s a high-end trailer.) When we picked up our camper from storage, one tire was almost flat. We travel with a compressor, so we put air in it, got to our campground and set up. Next morning, we went to remove the wheel. All was good until the chrome accessory cap on the lug turned, but the lug nut didn’t. The cap had come loose—this happened to three out of the five. I had to split the caps and peel them off. A rough lesson. As soon as we got home, we ordered 20 solid stainless lugs and changed them all. We recommend checking your lug nuts—a periodic check of the torque, in any case, to make sure the cap isn’t the only thing turning.
—Ken and Linda Nekos, Robinson Township, PA
A: Thanks for sharing this! Manufacturers often use these types of lug nuts because they are a little cheaper. I’ve had this happen. It can really ruin your day if it happens out on the road, especially in bad weather or a remote area. Sometimes I’ve had to hammer a slightly smaller socket onto the lug nut to get it to turn. I suggest that anyone who is concerned to check the lug nuts: See if they have thin chrome covers on them. If so, preemptively replace them, and tighten the new ones to the specified torque. After driving a while, pull off the road in a safe spot and re-tighten them, as lugs can loosen.
Photo Credit: Getty
Reverse Engineering
Q: I just bought a 2024 Ford F-250 pickup that has a backup camera. My previous pickup didn’t have one; my 1995 Scamp trailer doesn’t either. I want to take off the tailgate with the camera in it and install a V-type tailgate to accommodate the fifth-wheel camper. Will this stir up problems with the info center? Trigger alarms? Anything?
—Tim Demuth, Maple Hill, KS
A: If you remove the tailgate on this model without installing the special Ford wiring harness designed for this purpose, it will likely display a “Tailgate Ajar” warning on the dash, along with an error message. This harness is supposed to be included with the truck, and is typically found in the glove box or under the seat. However, some owners have reported that their rig is missing this gadget. You should be able to obtain a replacement from any Ford dealer parts department. It’s called “tailgate delete cap kit” (part number PC3T15A562, if we’re really getting deep into it).
There is also a simple manual workaround. The tailgate ajar sensors are switches within the tailgate latches. When those latches are fully closed, the system assumes the tailgate is latched, even if the tailgate is missing. So if you manually trip both latches, the warning will stay off unless or until you trigger the electrical tailgate unlatch function. You didn’t ask, but you might consider fabricating a bracket and installing the camera on the replacement tailgate.
Ask Us Anything!
Share your tech tales and send us your questions to knowhow@wildsam.com. Perhaps our RV expert can help you solve your problems.
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-04-22
National Parks to See Before You Die
Sometimes, the boldest moves bring the greatest rewards…
Two years ago, I made a choice that many dream of but few act on: I took a leap of faith and walked away from a successful career as an attorney and Senior Vice President of a major commercial insurance brokerage firm to pursue adventure and the open road.
My passion for camping and exploration was sparked at an early age, shaped by childhood trips with my grandparents in their modest Nomad travel trailer emblazoned with a Good Sam sticker.
My sister and I explored every corner of Oregon with Grandma and Grandpa, from the shores of the Oregon Coast to the dramatic cliffs of Hells Canyon and everywhere in between. We camped in incredible places, explored small towns, hiked, swam in crystal-clear lakes, panned for gold, and never missed a single museum along the way.
Image source: author
I also grew up obsessed with cars—especially fast ones. I slept in a race car bed, surrounded by toy Porsches and posters of sports cars plastered across my walls.
Twenty-five years later, I was finally in a position to graduate from toy Porsches to the real thing. I wanted to get the absolute most out of the experience, which meant daily driving my 911 in all weather conditions, logging countless track days, navigating rough terrain to reach remote hiking trailheads, and racking up miles on road trips every chance I got.
Creating the Fastest RV in the World
It wasn’t until I was preparing for a road trip to Colorado that the idea hit me: why not mount a rooftop tent on the Porsche to create a camper that is equally at home in the fast lane of the Autobahn as it is off the grid?
I found a nearly mint Yakima Skyrise rooftop tent on Craigslist and set my sights on creating the fastest RV in the world. My goal was a setup that offered the flexibility and convenience of rooftop tent camping without compromising the Porsche’s driving dynamics.
The result? A complete game-changer! With other cars, reaching the campsite or hiking trailhead is often an afterthought. Now, the drive itself is an exciting part of the adventure.
Image source: author
National Park Cannonball Run: 51 Parks in 50 Days
In late summer 2024, I set out on what I thought would be the final chapter of a yearlong mission: road-tripping to all 51 national parks in the contiguous United States. I had visited 46 and just 5 remained. I visited my Grandpa the day before I hit the road.
The timeline was tight. Starting from Washington state, I had 13 days to reach Isle Royale, Avadia, Everglades, Biscayne and Dry Tortugas. It didn’t take long for things to go off the rails. A rockslide on Going-to-the-Sun Road, an August snowstorm on Logan Pass in Glacier and a cancelled ferry to Isle Royale nearly derailed the mission. That’s when I remembered that I had visited the East Coast parks in the fall of 2023. By revisiting them again, I could reset my 1-year deadline and keep the dream alive.
This set me up to take a shot at something bigger: visiting all 51 national parks and 48 states in the contiguous United States in a single 50-day road trip. I had visited many of these parks before, some multiple times, so I knew exactly how to make the most of the short time I would have in each one.
Somehow, I pulled it off – 51 national parks and 48 states in just 50 days while camping on top of the Porsche for 50 consecutive nights. I averaged over 500 miles of driving and 6 miles of hiking a day for 50 consecutive days. Countless setbacks and challenges arose along the way that would have caused most people to fold. So many opportunities to take the easy route, give up and head back home…
But every morning I woke up before sunrise, answered the bell, pressed onward and was rewarded with lifelong memories.
Image source: author
11 National Parks to See Before You Die
My cannonball run was packed with a lifetime’s worth of memories. Here are the national park experiences I think everyone should have before kicking the bucket:
1. Sunrise at Canyonlands National Park
The Shafer Trail is a narrow, unpaved road that cuts through the cliffs into the heart of Canyonlands National Park. Wake up early and hit the trail to have it – and the sunrise – all to yourself.
Image source: Unsplash
2. Exclamation Point at Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is probably one of the most underrated in the system. It’s where I fell in love with national parks and most visitors to the park never make it to the North Rim. They’re missing out!
Most days, you have the place all to yourself. The views are better too, especially from Exclamation Point. You aren’t going to find a better view for a 3-mile hike. Peering over the edge of the rim of the 2,000-feet-deep vertical canyon wall to the Gunnison River below will take your breath away.

Image source: author

3. Camp at “The Wall” – Badlands National Park
“The Wall” is one of my favorite places to camp. The dispersed camping site is located in the Buffalo Gap National Grassland and offers a stunning view of Badlands National Park, especially at sunrise.
Image source: Unsplash

4. Kayak The Badwater Basin in Death Valley
Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park is the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere, sitting at 282 feet below sea level.
Tens of thousands of years ago, Badwater Basin was home to Lake Manly. This ancient lake has long since evaporated, but it makes a brief and rare reappearance every once in a while. When it does, kayak across its shallow waters for a life-changing experience.
Image source: author

5. Hike America’s Tallest Dune
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a Martian-like park in Colorado that has to be checked off the list.
Star Dune measures 741 feet from base to summit and is tied for the title of tallest sand dune in North America. There is no trail, and hiking in sand is exhausting, so start early and get back before it gets too hot.
Image source: author

6. Explore America’s Largest Caves at Carlsbad Caverns
The Big Room in Carlsbad Caverns National Park is the largest single cave chamber by volume in North America. It has been called “The Grand Canyon with a roof over it,” and it is hands down one of the most stunning places in the national park system.

Image source: author
7. Paddle to Canada at Voyageurs National Park
The United States / Canada border extends through the three largest lakes in Voyageurs National Park. With the proper documentation, you can paddle across the border on an extended canoe trip that’ll change your life.
Image source: author
8. First Sunrise in the Continental U.S. at Acadia
Acadia National Park in Maine is home to Cadillac Mountain. The mountain’s summit, with an elevation 1,530 feet, is the highest point within 25 miles of the Atlantic Coast and the first place to see the sunrise in the continental United States.
Image source: author
9. Last Sunset in the Continental U.S. – Olympic National Park
Cape Alava in Olympic National Park is the westernmost point of the mainland in the Lower 48 and the place to see the last sunset in the contiguous United States.
Image source: author

10. Bison Herds at Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the best places in the park system to see bison. There are so many in the North and South units of the park that the NPS routinely transfers many to other locations to maintain an appropriately sized population for the park.
Image source: author
11. Sunrise Over Crater Lake
When I arrived at Crater Lake National Park on the morning of day 47 of my National Park Cannonball road trip, I was met with one of the most stunning sunrises that I had ever seen. The sky was on fire. It was absolutely magical.
I didn’t fully realize how special it was until I got back to cell service and received a message that my Grandpa had passed away a few hours earlier. My love for exploring, the outdoors and camping was born from childhood adventures with my Grandpa. Gramps loved what I was doing and was always excited to hear about the places I had seen that he had never visited.
During our last conversation, the day before I left on this trip, he jokingly asked to come along (even though he was in no shape to travel). He might not have been with me for the entire trip, but I’m certain he was with me during that sunrise over Crater Lake.
Grandpa giving his send-off via a Crater Lake sunrise. | Image source: author

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2025-04-22
EcoFlow Wave 3 Review: Better in Every Way
When EcoFlow first announced its Wave portable air conditioner a few years back, it quickly became the go-to option for staying cool while camping. Less than a year later, the second-generation model hit the market, bringing more power and features—not to mention an onboard heater—along with it. Now, after nearly a two-year wait, the EcoFlow Wave 3 has arrived, and it is an improvement in pretty much every way.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
What’s New?
Whenever you’re dealing with a new generation of any product, it’s important to highlight what’s new. After all, if you already own a previous version of the Wave, you’ll want to know if this one is worth the upgrade. The short answer to that question is “yes,” but it does depend on how much you use your existing model. And if you’re considering purchasing a portable air conditioner, but haven’t done so yet, this is the one to go with.
The Wave 3 sees significant performance improvements over the Wave 2, which was already a step up from the original model. According to EcoFlow’s specs, when used as an air conditioner, the third-generation Wave jumps from 5,100 BTUs (1,500W) to 6,100 BTUs (at 1,800W). Its heating capacity also gets a modest bump, going from 6,100 BTUs (1,800W) to 6,800 BTUs (2,000W), while pushing out more air (330 vs. 250 cubic meters/hour). On top of that, the unit can now act as a dehumidifier, further improving comfort levels in an enclosed space.
As noted above, the Wave 3’s higher output does come with more power demands, but not substantially so. In fact, despite its higher BTU ratings, it still manages a runtime of up to 8 hours when connected to EcoFlow’s optional add-on battery pack. That’s pretty impressive considering you’re getting more heating and cooling capabilities. And of course, you can keep the device running longer by using one of EcoFlow’s power stations, too.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Putting It Through Its Paces
Of course, numbers on a spec sheet are one thing, and real-world performance is another. As it turns out, the roller-coaster temperatures of spring make for the perfect opportunity to test the EcoFlow Wave 3, as it gives us the chance to try out both its cooling and heating capabilities. That’s just what we did over the past few weeks, coming away very impressed with what we found.
As with the previous versions of the Wave, the latest model is able to cool down (or heat up) a small space (think 150-175 square feet) in a relatively short time. EcoFlow says it takes about 15 minutes to achieve the desired temperature in such a setting, but we found it generally took less time than that. Sure, if you’re trying to dramatically adjust the conditions in an RV or small room, it will take a little longer, but under typical conditions, we usually achieved our target temperature in about 10 minutes or less.
That improved performance is helped in part by stronger air flow and the unit’s improved power. As with past models, you simply turn the Wave 3 on, set it to heat or cool mode, and adjust the thermostat to your desired temperature. After that, the device just does its thing, quickly—and quietly—creating a more comfortable environment.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
More Modes
The third-generation Wave has a slew of new modes that give users more functionality and control. You’ll still have a “Normal,” “Max,” and “Eco” modes, each of which offers different levels of performance with a corresponding impact on battery life. For instance, Max mode will cool or heat a room the fastest, but is louder and requires more power. Meanwhile, Eco mode is a quieter and more efficient, but takes longer to achieve the desired temperature.
You’ll have a lot more leeway on how you choose to use those modes when plugged into a power outlet at home. But when utilizing EcoFlow’s add-on battery pack or a power station, you may want to be more conservative. On Max mode, you’re likely to only get about two or three hours of use, but in Eco mode, you’ll see up to eight hours of runtime.
The Wave 3’s upgraded features also include three new modes—Sleep, Automatic, and Pet Care. In Sleep mode, the unit drops its noise levels down to just 44dB, making it much quieter while in operation. Automatic allows the device to switch between heating and cooling as needed, which proved handy in the ever-changing conditions of spring. In the mornings and evenings, it acted as a heater as the temperature dropped, while during the day it pumped out cool air in response to warmer conditions.
Finally, Pet Care mode lets the device monitor the temperature around it and automatically turn on if that temperature rises above 77ºF. If this happens, it will also send an alert to your smartphone via the EcoFlow app, letting you know the Wave 3 has been activated. This is a nice feature to have, allowing you to safely leave your furry friends behind in the RV, knowing that the air conditioner will activate if things start to get a little too warm.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Other Refinements, Too!
In addition to adding more operational modes, EcoFlow has continued to refine the Wave in other ways, too. For instance, controlling the device with the EcoFlow app is a smoother, faster experience, with intuitive controls and an easy-to-understand interface. The app also lets you monitor the battery and onboard water tank, letting you know when you need to recharge the power cells or drain the accumulated moisture. You can even set an auto-shutdown timer, turning the Wave 3 off after a set amount of time has passed.
As already noted, the Wave 3 now works as a dehumidifier, taking excess moisture out of the air to maintain consistent temperatures and comfort levels. This is a much-welcomed feature and, in our experience, it works quite well. It does require emptying the builtin water tank regularly, but thankfully, the device provides an alert, both on its built-in display and via the app, when it’s time to drain the water.
As usual, the Wave 3 is incredibly well built and offers excellent versatility. During our testing, it was mainly used to warm or cool a small room, but it works equally well for an RV or tent. The unit comes with the necessary accessories to connect it to your rig, including a hose for draining water. It works especially well with Class B camper vans and small towables, in particular, providing a plug-and-play option for adding heating and cooling to those vehicles.
Photo Credit: EcoFlow
Powering the EcoFlow Wave 3
As noted, there are multiple ways of providing power to the Wave 3, the easiest of which is simply plugging it into the wall. But since this device is designed to be used just about anywhere, you can also plug it into a portable power station. EcoFlow’s own solar generators make a great option for doing this of course, with the powerful Delta Pro 3 model offering up to 40 hours of use while camping off-grid. Smaller units offer anywhere from 2-20 hours depending on the model and settings.
One of the cleanest ways of powering the Wave 3 is by adding EcoFlow’s add-on battery pack made especially for the device. This power solution seamlessly connects to the bottom of the Wave 3, greatly extending its runtime in the process. The only downside is that it adds additional weight, too. The air conditioner itself tips the scales at 33.7 lbs., while the battery pack adds an additional 21.4 lbs, bringing the total to just over 55 lbs. That can make it a little bulky to move around.
The Wave 3’s versatility extends to its ability to recharge its onboard battery and connected add-on battery pack. In addition to recharging from a wall outlet, it can also power up using solar panels, using an EcoFlow alternator charger in your vehicle, and directly from a power station. And even with the add-on battery, it charges surprisingly quickly, topping out in just two hours from a wall outlet and as fast as three hours from solar.
Photo Credit: EcoFlow
Closing Thoughts
Having tested and reviewed the previous two generations of Wave air conditioners, I can honestly say there weren’t a lot of surprises when testing the Wave 3. This isn’t a revolutionary upgrade to what EcoFlow has done in the past, but is instead an evolutionary shift, adding new features and refinements to an already great product.
That said, a lot of small additions and changes can add up to significant improvements. Such is the case with the Wave 3, which offers a simpler, more enjoyable, and efficient experience than its predecessors. For anyone wanting to add heating and cooling to their RV, this product stands alone in terms of power, functionality, and ease of use.
The EcoFlow Wave 3 is available to preorder on the EcoFlow website now, and will be available for purchase on Amazon and at EcoFlow.com on April 25. Early bird pricing will run from that date through May 25, with the Wave 3 selling for $749, the add-on battery pack priced at $599, and a bundle of both devices for $1,299.
After the early-bird purchasing window, the Wave 3 will be priced at $1,299, while the add-on battery pack will sell for $899. Bundled together, the two products will have an MSRP of $2,198.
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2025-04-21
Discover Inspiration in Louisville North Campground
Located near downtown Louisville, Kentucky, Louisville North Campground is a family-owned campground purchased by Ernest and Barb Ringo in 1987.
It all started when Ernest and Barb decided to take a road trip back to their home state of Indiana after Ernest retired from the Oil industry. While on vacation, they set their sights on their dream job of owning a campground. So, in 1987, they purchased Louisville North Campground, located in Clarksville, Indiana, just over the bridge from Louisville, Kentucky, separated by the Ohio River.
Photo is courtesy of Louisville North Campground.
Growth and Customer Service
Ernest and Barb enlarged the campground to 110 sites, tenting sites, and two cabins over the years. Ernest died in 2009, but Barb, who is now 85 years young, and her daughter Pam still run the campground. Barb comes to work every day to welcome the campers with a joyful greeting and continues to help out in the convenience store and gas station.
Photo is courtesy of Louisville North Campground.
Just a few minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky, and with easy access from Interstate 65, the location has given the camping public an ideal base camp to attend the city’s major events, conventions, and a myriad of attractions.
Enjoy a city full of shops, restaurants, and sporting events. Visit Churchill Downs and its Kentucky Derby Museum. Take the kids to the Louisville Science Center, the Louisville Slugger Museum, and the Louisville Zoo.
The Louisville skyline rises near the Ohio River. Photo: Missvain
Find Family Here
Our family campground is looking forward to hosting you soon. You’ll find all the conveniences you need here, including full hookups with Wi-Fi, high-speed internet, and up to 30 channels on the regular antenna at every RV Site. Also, if you need RV service, it is available next door.
Be sure to include Louisville North Campground on your itinerary when visiting Indiana and Kentucky. Book now with louisvillenorthcampground.com so you don’t miss out.
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2025-04-19
RV News: Cortes Campers Launches Lightweight Towable, Genesis Reveals Luxury Overlanding Vehicle, and More
There is plenty of RV industry news to get to this week, including new towable from Cortes Campers, RV accessories and tech to get excited about, and much more. So, on that note, lets jump right in to see what’s been happening. Here are the stories to have on your radar:
Photo Credit: Cortes Campers
- Cortes Campers Debuts “World’s Lightest 18-Foot Camper”: If you’re looking for a lightweight towable to pull behind your midsize SUV, Cortes Campers may have covered it. The company has launched its new Cortes 18 Super Light, which it says is the lightest 18′ trailer on the market. The rig comes with a suite of great features, including a Furrion A/C unit, a 12V mini-fridge, Bluetooth speaker sound system, and either a double bed or a king-size mattress depending on the floor plan. The camper comes in several colors and utilizes a custom steel chassis with composite materials to maintain durability, while remaining lightweight. Check it out here.
- The Genesis X Gran Equator Concept Merges Luxury and Overlanding: The New York International Auto Show is taking place this week, with dozens of car manufacturers on hand to show off their latest models. One of those brands is luxury upstart Genesis, which revealed a splashy new concept vehicle meant to merge overlanding with posh handling and amenities. Dubbed the X Gran Equator, the SUV looks slick and features what designers call “athletic elegance,” although it seems to be lacking in actual overlanding features. The interior is spartan but functional, with upscale materials and design elements. Whether or not the concept actually becomes a production model remains to be seen, but it sure is pretty to look at.
Photo Credit: Goal Zero
- BioLite Gobbles Up Goal Zero: The portable power market has gotten crowded and competitive over the past few years, and this week we saw some consolidation. A few days back, BioLite—which is best known for its camping stoves, fire pits, and camp lighting solutions—purchased Goal Zero, the company that started the power station craze more than 15 years ago. The acquisition bolsters BioLite’s own efforts in this space, instantly giving them more visibility and a broader range of products. What it means for both brands’ collective portfolios remains to be seen.
- GearJunkie Reviews Dometic CFX 55IM Powered Cooler: Dometic is one of the biggest players in the powered cooler market, continually pushing the technology and designs of these devices forward. One of its newest models is the CFX 55IM, which not only promises to keep your drinks cold and your food fresh, but also to make ice cubes on the go. The GearJunkie team reviewed the electric cooler this week, giving it high marks for its performance and efficiency, although at $1,199 it is a pricey investment. Read the full review here.
Photo Credit: The Dyrt
- The Dyrt Adds New Feature to Instantly Find Available Campgrounds: Online campground discovery platform The Dyrt has added a new feature to help members find nearby campgrounds. This week, the company launched “Drive Time,” which gives PRO members the ability to search for campsite availability with a specified driving distance from their current location. Naturally, users can filter the results based on interests and book the site they want to stay at in seconds. The feature is live and available now.
- Pandemic RV Buyers Continue to Use Their Vehicles: It’s no secret that the Covid era was a boom time for RV manufacturers, with tens of thousands of people purchasing campers so they could enjoy being anywhere but home. But now that the dust has settled for those buyers, how are they enjoying those pricey pandemic purchases? According to a new study from Go RVing, 67% of them are still using their rigs to go camping, while 50% also say they’re using them for cooking and swimming. Better still, 68% of Covid buyers say they’re planning on purchasing a new RV, with 45% indicating they would do so in the next two years. For further insights, like age, income, and family demographics, read the full report here.
Photo Credit: Battle Born
- Battle Born Launches App for Android Users: iPhone owners have been able to use the Battle Born Mobile App for some time, but now it is finally available for Android users, too. This week, the company launched the software on the Google Play Store, bringing feature parity with the iOS version. The app allows RVers who use Battle Born batteries with Dragonfly Intelligence to monitor their systems remotely and receive alerts when issues occur. Download the app here.
- Gen-Y Hitch Intros New Torsion-Flex Model: In the market for a hitch that can smooth out your ride when towing? You’re in luck, as this week, Gen-Y Hitch introduced an all-new torsion-flex model called the Voyager. According to the brand, this latest addition to its lineup should provide better stability, too, thanks to reduced movement between the cargo carrier and the hitch receiver. Find out more here.
That’s a wrap for another week of RV news. Come back next Friday for the latest updates, insights, and trends.
The post RV News: Cortes Campers Launches Lightweight Towable, Genesis Reveals Luxury Overlanding Vehicle, and More appeared first on RV.com.
2025-04-18
Welcome Aboard: the Keystone Passport Line
Step into a world of limitless possibilities with Passport Ultra-Light travel trailers, where towing confidence, agility, and the thrill of spontaneity reigns supreme. With three distinct product types, the Grand Touring (GT) and Super-Light (SL), and new single-axle Mini models, Passport offers options tailored to your preferences and tow vehicle.
Passport Mini
Exceptionally versatile, Passport Classic’s single-axle RVs deliver incredible quality, style and features designed to give you total confidence for adventures big and small. These small but mighty RVs give you everything you need to hit the road, make memories, and adventure with your loved ones. With monthly payments that may be lower than your cable bill, Passport Classics may be the ticket to the RV lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of.
Passport Super Light
Super Light = Super Fun! If you’re looking for an excuse to become an RV owner, Passport Super Lite travel trailers are it. These models range from around 3,500 to 6,000 pounds, providing towable options for many SUVs and light duty trucks. Passport’s 2025 models feature all-new graphics, a new cap profile that offers more room up front, and new TORFLEX® rubber torsion independent suspension.
Passport Grand Touring
Passport delivers ultra-lightweight camping loaded with multi-functional features and best-in-class storage. Passport premium models features the brand’s most spacious floor plans—including vaulted ceilings. A new front cap profile not only adds more interior room at the front of these models, it’s molded from high-impact resin is lighter and three times more resilient — even in cold temperatures.
Passport has warmed up their signature teak cabinetry with new light countertops, upholstery, and flooring. An accent wall featuring a gold geometric pattern, black appliances and bold origami-inspired door pulls punch up this exciting look.
The post Welcome Aboard: the Keystone Passport Line appeared first on Poulsbo RV.
2025-04-17
Buyer’s Guide: An Office with a View
If you’re lucky enough to have a job that allows you to work from anywhere, these RVs with an office will help you to be productive at the campsite.
Photo Credit: Keystone
Keystone Montana 3941FO
Keystone has a track record for bringing innovative ideas and design elements to its legendary line of Montana fifth-wheels. Nowhere is that more evident than with the 3941FO floor plan, a magnificent setup for RVers who need to get a little—or a lot—of work done while on the road. The rig includes a palatial primary bedroom suite, a spacious kitchen and a living room with two sleeper sofas, power theater seating and a fireplace. Up front, you’ll find a dedicated office space with an L-shaped desk larger than those found in a lot of “real” offices. There’s room for a computer, monitor, printer and all your other tech, with space to spread out all your crucial documents, spreadsheets, secret files, etc. A sliding farm-style door provides privacy for those all-important Zoom calls, while built-in drawers and cabinets add storage. If your career has followed you out on the road, this is at least a nice spot to deal with it. MSRP: $137,153; keystonerv.com
Photo Credit: Fleetwood
Fleetwood Frontier GTX 37RT
This Class A motorhome features a workspace at the rear of the vehicle that includes a small desk, storage cabinets and drawers and a place to mount a computer monitor on the wall. A set of sliding doors adds privacy and seclusion, but with the bedroom and kitchen separating the office from the main living area, it’s easy to take private conference calls without disturbing the rest of the crew. MSRP: $445,951; fleetwoodrv.com
Photo Credit: Airstream
Airstream Flying Cloud 30FB Office
Airstream’s Flying Cloud is the rare travel trailer that offers a floor plan with a dedicated office. Located at the rear of the vehicle, the space is cozy but functional and includes a desk, a built-in charging station and storage cabinets and cubbies. For added flexibility, the space can be converted to a sleeping area and even comes with an office chair. As RVs with an office go, this one is especially accommodating. MSRP: $130,500; airstream.com
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Winnebago Vista 34R
A lot of RVs have dinettes that can serve as a workstation, but Winnebago’s Class A model takes things a step beyond the usual. The king-size
Murphy bed in the main bedroom folds out of the way, revealing a dinette/workspace underneath. This opens up the area, creating a large space that is both productive and collaborative. A sliding door provides easy access to the kitchen and bathroom. MSRP: $224,340; winnebago.com
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-04-17
Shop Talk: The Jersey Boys of OK4WD
If you are an overlander or offroader, or even just aspire to be one of the above, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of OK4WD of Stewartsville, New Jersey. This formidable shop sits in verdant farm country, but also within two hours of both New York City and Philadelphia; it’s become the premier four-wheel drive outfitter on the East Coast, and arguably in the nation.
Jim Oostdyk, the shop’s founder and guiding force, has been instrumental in shaping the technical culture of American overlanding, bringing in top-end gear from four-wheel-fanatical places like Australia and South Africa. His massive shop and showroom work like a creative prompt to people who want to explore the hinterlands. If you can think it up, the crew here can likely build it.
This was not always the case—Oostdyk started with a two-bay garage and a gas station. The journey from then til now is as interesting as any backcountry route.
Jim Oostdyk surveys the trails of his native New Jersey. (Photo Credit: Lila Barth)
Shop: OK4WD Location: Stewartsville, New Jersey Founded: 1979 Specialty: Off-Road Gear
Q: You grew up on a farm in rural New Jersey. Did that environment help draw you to off-road driving?
A: I started the business as a gas station and repair shop, two weeks out of high school in 1979. I ran out of cash within a month and had to sell my car—a ’66 Mustang. I bought an old Jeep. And four weeks later, I rolled it. As I was fixing it up, I lifted it, put on another body, and dropped in a different motor. Customers at the gas station would see that and say, “Hey, I got an old Jeep. Can you do that to mine?” Things just took off from there.
Q: How long did that take for the gas station to turn into a full-blown 4×4 shop?
A: Within a year, we were cranking. Ford came out with an F-150 with an independent front suspension. Our UPS driver bought one in about the fall of 1980. We lifted it for him, and he took it to the Jersey Shore for Memorial Day. All weekend, people were stopping him, and he handed out a bunch of our cards. People lined up after that, asking us to lift their trucks and put big tires on them.
Q: The whole concept and culture of “overlanding” has transformed since then, especially in recent years. How has that evolution looked from your vantage point?
A: We were kind of into overlanding before anyone called it overlanding. And we always wanted to make 4x4s that fit the customer’s lifestyle. Now that the idea of overlanding has become more popular, that really fits well into our wheelhouse. When things started to head in that direction, I spent a lot of time traveling and finding really good products from South Africa and Europe. We’d bring them back to the U.S. and tweak them for our marketplace.

Q: How did you start your international search for overlanding gear?
A: I started traveling because I didn’t want my kids to be brats. I took them to do charity mission work in places like Mexico, Peru, Haiti and Africa. Every time, I would find that a 4×4 was a total necessity. I would see things on vehicles in other countries that we didn’t have here—like camping gear, air lockers and extra spare tires. I realized that the rest of the world does four-wheel drives differently.
We’d go places to build orphanages or do construction work mainly. They’d have a Jeep or a Toyota pickup that was broken down, and my son and I would fix them. You learn all these things, and then you see the components that make their vehicles stronger. It made our business more innovative. I was finding stuff that we just didn’t see here in the States.
OK4WD employee Jeremy Dittmar, on duty (Photo Credit: Lila Barth)
Q: What do you think spurred Americans to become more interested in off-road travel and exploration?
A: What really got it going here was gear coming from Australia. With the help of a customer, we actually installed the first ARB Air Locker in the US. That guy went on to start ARB USA., and we became one of the first, if not the first, ARB dealers in the country. Overland Journal came out, which then led to a show.
Q: Where do you draw inspiration for your builds?
A: Inspiration comes from seeing people get outside. We’ve had couples who met and got married because of events or trails we’ve told them about. We’ve seen a lot of friendships being built, too. The community is just so inspirational in all aspects. The camping aspect of it, too, is just so good. When you camp, it’s good for your soul. The inspiration really comes from giving people a piece of equipment that makes their lives more enjoyable.
Q: Do customers ever show you something you haven’t seen before—something that surprises you?
A: We’ll build a camper out, and then a customer will finish the interior and bring it back in. We’ll ask if we can incorporate some of their ideas into our work. And that’s the beauty of campers. It’s kind of like a blank slate. It’s amazing to see what people come up with.
Q: Are there any dream builds, or maybe even dream trips, that you want to do?
A: My life’s not going to be long enough for me to get everywhere I want to go, but I’m very, very blessed with where I’ve been able to go. For vehicles, we have a new Ineos Grenadier, which kind of blows my mind. We cut the roof off and put an AluCab pop-top on it. I think it’s the coolest thing I’ve seen in many years—if not my whole career.
The first OK4WD catalog from 1985 with photos of the original gas station. location. (Photo Credit: Lila Barth)
Head for the Hills
1. The OK4WD website provides plenty of project-documentation eye candy for the would-be adventurer. A 2021 Ram 3500 Tradesman transformed via the installation of an OEV Alpine flat-bed camper, kitted out with Maxtrax recovery boards, an Alu-Cab shadow awning and a robust suite of rugged vehicular upgrades
2. The shop puts a strong focus on the most basic and essential component of off-road exploration: tires. Its selection of BFGoodrich, Nitto and Michelin models runs deep, and the technician team specializes in vehicle fit, install and maintenance support.
3. The shop’s build-out of a 2024 Ineos Grenadier does full justice to the new cult-favorite exploration vehicle. The team implemented the Alu-Cab Silenus rooftop tent conversion, specially designed for the Grenadier.
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-04-16