Travelling in a caravan or motorhome is an exciting and adventurous way to explore Australia’s vast and diverse landscape. However, as you journey from one destination to the next, it is important to consider ways to save power and conserve energy. We will discuss some simple tips and tricks that can help you save power while travelling Australia.
- Solar panels: Solar panels are a fantastic way to harness the power of the sun to generate electricity for your caravan. They are environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run. When choosing solar panels, make sure your solar power system will generate enough power to meet your needs. You can use solar to power your caravan’s lights, charging devices, as well as some electrical appliances.
- Energy-efficient and low wattage appliances. When buying appliances for your caravan, opt for energy-efficient models which also may have more than 1 type of usage. For example: a rice cooker can also cook roast beef. Where possible purchase low wattage appliances. This will save your power in the long run.
- LED lighting. LED lights are an excellent alternative to traditional lighting options. They consume less power and last longer. This means you will save on energy and replacement costs. You can replace all your caravan’s lighting with LEDs, and you’ll notice a significant reduction in your power consumption.
- Battery Operated Lighting. Another method of conserving power, when in your home or whilst travelling in a caravan or motorhome is to install battery operated sensor lights at strategic points. Not only will this reduce your power consumption at nights, but will also act as an extra security mechanism. No would-be thief wants the home or space lit up like a Christmas tree whilst they move around in the space! You can purchase battery operated sensor lights on EBay or at Bunnings. Are you someone who gets up in the middle of the night? Then battery operated sensor lights just might be the way to move around without disturbing others sleeping in the caravan.
- Monitor power usage. Monitoring your power usage is crucial to understanding where and how you are using electricity. The majority of power systems comes with a monitor for you to monitor how much power you are using. If you notice that you are using too much power, you can reduce your consumption by turning off and unplugging appliances when they are not in use.
- Rule of Thumb: Unplug any appliances or even the TV when not in use. You can do this whether you live in a house or living in a caravan or motorhome. By turning unplugging the appliances completely can save you a significant amount of power and money.
- Use Gas for cooking where possible. Be this via installing a gas stove and/or cooktop or via a BBQ. Yes, you do have to pay for full gas bottles however, you will save your power generation for more important items, for example: charging your mobiles and laptops.
- Cook the main meal at lunchtime rather than at dinner time. Why? Because if you have full sun, the power you use to cook your meals (if using electrical appliances etc.) can be replenished by the sun to your solar panels to help keep the fridge running overnight, whilst staying off grid.
- Use natural ventilation. By using natural ventilation instead of air conditioning, this can save you a considerable amount of power. Open your caravan’s windows and doors to let in the fresh air. If the days or evenings are warmer, consider using fans to circulate the air. Whilst you can park your caravan in a shaded area to reduce the need for air conditioning, this may not be the most optimal spot to encourage the run to power your solar power system.
In conclusion, travelling Australia in a caravan or motorhome can be an incredible adventure, however it is essential to conserve power and energy along the way. By following some of these simple tips, you can save power, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy your travels to the fullest. Remember to always use energy-efficient low wattage appliances, monitor your power usage, and turn off and unplug appliances when not in use.
Happy travels!