How to Go Off Grid in Your Motorhome

If you're dreaming of freedom, adventure, and leaving the constraints of campsites behind, then going off grid in your motorhome could be just what you need. With the right preparation, you can power your essentials, stay connected, and explore stunning parts of the UK that you wouldn’t otherwise get the chance to experience.  

Powering Your Motorhome Off Grid 

Going off grid means you won’t have access to campsite hook-ups, so having a self-sufficient power setup is key. Solar panels are key as they convert sunlight into electricity to charge your leisure battery, powering lights, pumps, and 12V appliances. Choosing a solar panel system that matches your battery capacity means you can generate more energy, which is especially useful during the longer days of summer. 

A high-capacity leisure battery (around 100Ah–150Ah) will usually keep you going for three to four days in the UK, and longer in sunnier climes. There are a few types to consider: 

• Lead acid batteries: These are affordable but heavy and less efficient. 
• AGM batteries: This option is popular in caravans but still quite weighty. 
• Lithium batteries (LiFePO4): These are lightweight, longer-lasting, more efficient—but also more expensive. 

Don’t forget an inverter to power your 230V appliances. A 400W inverter is fine for laptops, phones, and small gadgets. For bigger items like kettles or microwaves, go for a 1500W inverter—but make sure your battery can handle the load. 

Generators can offer backup power, but they’re noisy and less eco-friendly, so they’re best kept as a last resort. 

Internet and Staying Connected 

Just because you're off grid doesn't mean you have to go offline. A 4G or 5G system, paired with a roof-mounted antenna and roaming SIM card, can keep you connected on the road. This means you can stream shows, plan routes, or research local attractions without having to rely on campsite Wi-Fi. 

Water and Waste Management 

Managing your water and waste systems is crucial for longer off-grid stays and so it is important to make sure you have a decent-sized fresh water tank. Grey water from sinks and showers, and black water from your toilet, need to be stored and disposed of responsibly. 

A water filter is also a good addition, especially if you’re refilling from natural sources or taps with unknown quality. 

Where to Stay Off Grid 

Off-grid camping isn’t about pulling over anywhere and setting up camp. In the UK, wild camping is technically illegal without landowner permission—but there’s some flexibility if you’re respectful. 

• Certified Sites: Organisations like The Camping and Caravanning Club have small, off-grid locations with minimal facilities. 
• BritStops: Stay overnight for free at their network of pubs, farms, and shops with space to pitch up. 
• Wild Camping: If you’re discreet, tidy, and move on after a night or two, wild camping in rural areas is often tolerated. Always take your rubbish with you and leave no trace. 

Planning and Safety Considerations 

Off-grid travel takes a bit more planning than a traditional campsite stay: 

• Calculate your energy use and match your battery and solar panel sizes accordingly. 
• Plan water refill and waste disposal points in advance. 
• Always have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and breakdown essentials on board. 

Sleep Well Wherever You Roam 

A good night's sleep is essential after a day exploring the great outdoors. Off-grid living doesn’t mean compromising on comfort. 

Our custom-made caravan mattresses and motorhome mattresses are designed to give you at-home comfort on the road. Add a caravan mattress topper or motorhome mattress topper for an extra layer of luxury. Don’t forget breathable caravan bedding and soft motorhome bed sheets—natural fibres like cotton can help to regulate temperature and improve sleep quality.