Only 120V

I seam to only camp with 120v power but I wired lights, refrigerator, co2 detector, vent fan and water pump for 12 volt for just in case and also because the fridge I wanted needed 12 volt for computer power.

We talk now about boon-docking and that is possible because of the 12 volt system.

This is what I did: I have all lights, fridge, fan and some outlets wired for 12 volt DC, meaning that power will always come from the battery. But, since that battery has a Converter/Charger hooked up to it, that battery power is constantly replenished when the camper is plugged into shore power (120 volt AC). I also have several regular "house" outlets (120 volt) that are functional ONLY when plugged into shore power. So, that gives me the ability to boondock, limited only by the amp hours of my battery system. When boondocking, I can't plug my space heater, device chargers, toaster, blender, etc in because that only works for shore power 120 volt AC. I can charge devices (phone, etc) on the 12 volt system outlets. So, basically, if I can live without heat or appliances, I can boondock for the time allowed from my battery power. If I want heat, I have to plug into shore power. If I have to charge up my battery, I have to find shore power to plug into or connect to a generator, which I never do or want to do because of the noise. I do monitor my battery voltage and make sure I don't drop below the level safe for my battery.

Incidentally, on my first trailer that had ONLY 120 volt AC shore power, I disconnected the wire system from the AC source that powered four different light fixtures. I then rerouted the incoming AC shore power to a converter/charger (and then to the battery) as well as some AC outlets. Then, I connected the battery to the old 120 volt AC wires, thus now sending only 12 volts DC. I replaced all of those regular house current (120 volt) light bulbs with new 12 volt LED bulbs. They make them with the same old style screw in bases. Of course it is also important to send those hot 12 volt wires from the battery through a fuse block, sized appropriately to the size of the wires.

Because of those energy efficient LED bulbs, I now get the same amount of light (measured in "lumens" with about 1/10 of the energy use, thus saving battery power. The old AC wiring that now carries only 12 volts is overkill, but safe.

I’ll probably do some 12v stuff but if I’m going where I have no power , I can always use led lanterns, DEWALT 20v fan and yeti cooler keeps things cold for a few days.

Hello all,
Hope everyone is having a great, safe and healthy holiday season.
I did much same as Joe. I think by not providing a complete 12vdc system you pretty much eliminate being able to enjoy the quiet solitude and natural beauty that can only be experienced off the grid for several days, at least. For our family, that is always what we strive for when camping.

These places are hard to find in the Northeast, but are plentiful out West and in Canada. Many, if not most, of the best campgrounds we've stayed in do not provide any hookups. Usually there is a water spigot and outhouse within walking distance, and a dump station near the park entrance. There is hardly anything more satisfying than having the ability to stay warm and comfortable, with lights, stove and (propane) refrigerator out in the middle of nowhere. Happy trails in 2022!