August 2025 Motorhome Tips Archive: Boondocking Basics and 12‑Volt TV Power

If you’ve ever parked your motorhome in a remote meadow and wondered how to stay comfortable, you’re not alone. August 2025 brought two practical guides that answer exactly that – one on wild camping, or "boondocking," and another on keeping your favorite shows alive with a 12‑volt TV powered straight from your battery.

Boondocking Explained – Wild Camping Made Simple

Boondocking is just camping without hookups. Think of it as staying off‑grid for a night or two, using the resources your motorhome already carries. The guide breaks down the why and how: you save money, you get space to explore hidden spots, and you reduce your impact on popular campsites.

First, check your water and waste tanks. A full fresh‑water tank and an empty grey‑water tank give you a solid base. Next, monitor your battery level. Most motorhomes can run a few appliances for 24‑48 hours on a single charge, but the rule of thumb is to stay above 50 % to keep everything running smooth.

Safety is key. Choose a legal spot – many forests, high‑country areas, and some farmer’s fields allow free parking. Look for flat ground, shelter from the wind, and easy exit routes. A quick tip: use a portable waste tank emptying service if you’re staying longer than a day.

Finally, comfort hacks. A battery‑powered fridge, solar panels, and a good ventilation fan make a big difference. The guide even lists three UK spots where boondocking is legal and scenic – perfect for a weekend getaway.

Running a 12‑Volt TV Off a Battery – Safe, Smart Power for Off‑Grid Viewing

Watching a show while parked in the middle of nowhere feels like a win. The August post shows you how to hook a 12‑volt TV directly to your motorhome’s battery without frying anything. The first step is to check your TV’s power draw – most modern 12‑volt models need around 30‑50 watts.

Next, calculate how long your battery can handle that load. A 100 Ah battery at 12 V holds roughly 1,200 watt‑hours. Divide that by the TV’s wattage, and you get roughly 24‑40 hours of viewing time if the battery is fully charged. Keep an eye on the voltage; dropping below 11.5 V can damage both the battery and the TV.

To protect your setup, use a fuse or a DC‑to‑DC converter with built‑in overload protection. This prevents short circuits and keeps the TV from pulling too much current when the battery is low. The guide also suggests a small solar panel (50‑100 W) to top off the battery during daylight, extending your TV time without ever plugging into a shore power source.

Practical tip: place the TV near a window or use a low‑profile roof vent fan to keep the interior from overheating. A cool TV runs longer and looks better on screen.

Both posts aim to give you hands‑on advice you can try on your next trip. Boondocking opens up remote places, and a 12‑volt TV keeps you entertained while you’re off the grid. Mix the two, and you’ve got a comfortable, adventurous motorhome experience without breaking the bank.