Question 1

Can you run an RV AC on solar power?

Accepted Answer

echnically, yes, but for most people, it’s a pipe dream. You’d need a massive $5,000+ lithium bank and enough solar panels to cover your entire roof (around 800W–1000W) just to run it for a few hours. Unless you’ve dropped serious cash on your electrical system, skip the AC and master the art of "fan-life" and shading.

Question 2

What is the 70-degree rule for RVers?

Accepted Answer

It’s the nomad’s version of migrating. You stay north (Montana, Colorado) in the summer and head south (Arizona, Texas) in the winter to keep the temp around 70°F. It works—until it doesn't. Freak weather happens, and if you aren’t prepared to hunkering down in the cold or heat, the "Goldilocks Zone" can turn into a danger zone real fast.

Question 3

How do I stop condensation in my RV in the winter?

Accepted Answer

Condensation is a silent killer. When you breathe, cook, or run propane heaters, you’re pumping moisture into a small box. To stop mold, you have to do the unthinkable: crack a vent. Even in the freezing cold, you need airflow. Use a dehumidifier if you have the power, but nothing beats a cracked roof vent and a small circulating fan.

Question 4

Is it safe to stay in my RV during a monsoon?

Accepted Answer

If you’re on high ground, yes. If you’re in a dry wash or low-lying desert spot, absolutely not. A desert wash can go from bone-dry to a raging river in minutes. If the clouds look heavy, move to gravel or elevated terrain. Getting stuck in the mud is a nuisance; getting swept away is a tragedy.

Question 5

What’s the best way to keep batteries from dying in the cold?

Accepted Answer

Lithium batteries hate the cold—they won’t even take a charge below 32°F. If you're winter boondocking, you need "self-heating" batteries or you need to keep your battery bank inside the heated "envelope" of your RV. If they’re under the rig or in an uninsulated bay, they’ll quit on you exactly when you need them most. Read our article Winter boondocking: How to keep lithium batteries warm without draining them.

Off grid living

Climate considerations when living off-grid or boondocking in an RV

Reliable internet for working remotely from an RV

Staying safe while boondocking off-grid

Comfort essentials for the RV life: My top gear picks

The ultimate RV life toolkit: Essential gear for maintenance and emergency repairs

How to wash clothes, towels, and blankets while living off-grid — The RV life

Water challenges off-grid camping — The RV life

The dirty reality of off-grid living: Managing dust, dogs, and water scarcity

Living off grid in an RV: The cold reality of winter storms

How to deal with bears living off-grid/RV living