Is a dual battery system still necessary? Why portable power stations are changing the game for 4WD touring

For years, a dual battery setup has been the gold standard for 4WDers heading off-grid. It’s reliable, hardwired, and works seamlessly while you’re on the move. However, in recent years, portable power stations have emerged as a viable alternative. No difficult installs. Just plug in and go.

So, the question is – can you really tour and camp comfortably without a traditional dual battery system? Let’s dig into the pros and cons, and take a look at how one portable unit performed in real-world conditions.

What is a dual battery setup (and why was it so popular)?

A traditional dual battery setup adds a second battery (usually a deep-cycle lithium or AGM) to your 4WD. It runs your 12V accessories like your fridge, lighting, and devices without draining your starter battery. It’s paired with a DC-DC charger and hardwired into your vehicle’s system so it can charge up while you drive and also via solar panels.

It’s a robust solution that’s stood the test of time, especially for long-haul touring. But it’s not without downsides: it’s expensive, doesn’t run 240V without an inverter, it’s not easily transferable between vehicles, and it’s definitely not DIY-friendly for most.

What’s a portable power station, then?

Portable power stations are self-contained battery boxes that include all the sockets and outputs you need – 240V AC, 12V DC, USBs, and solar input. They come with a built-in inverter and smart display, and can be recharged via mains power, solar panels, and usually, your vehicle.

They’re not new, but newer models pack enough power to challenge the dual battery setup. And that’s where this conversation gets interesting.

Portable power station vs dual battery: pros and cons

Traditional dual battery setup

Pros:

• Charges while driving and solar
• Permanent and reliable once installed
• Suited for high-power, long-term off-grid use

Cons:

• High install costs
• Requires vehicle modification
• Can’t move it between setups easily

Portable power station

Pros:

• No install required unless you want to charge via your alternator
• Can be used across multiple vehicles or at home
• Easy to monitor and control
• Built in inverter
• Rechargeable via mains, solar, or vehicle

Cons:

• Heavy (especially larger units)
• High-capacity models can be expensive

Can a portable power station really replace a dual battery?

It depends on your setup. For basic to moderate power needs – camping fridge, lights, cameras, a laptop or water pump – a good portable power station can absolutely cover you. Throw in a solar panel or vehicle charger, and you can stretch that capability out indefinitely if you play it right.

If you’re running heavy-duty gear (think induction cookers, AC units, or power tools), a permanent dual battery system might still be the better bet with a portable power station instead used for backup.

Case study: How the Bluetti Elite 200 V2 held up

To put the idea to the test, I’ve been using a Bluetti Elite 200 V2 power station over the past two months – both for family camping and at home during a blackout. While this isn’t a dedicated review, it gives a real-world look at how a high-capacity portable station performs in place of a dual battery setup.

Camping trip setup included:

• 60L fridge
• LED lighting
• Charging devices
• Starlink
• Water pump
• 12V shower pump
• Laptop use in the afternoons

It managed all of the above with room to spare – topped up during the day with a solar blanket (not even a top-tier one).

Back home during a 6-hour power outage, it powered Starlink, charged our gear, and ran the water pump so we could still flush and shower. Handy.

Charging-wise, I used mains before the trip (fully charged in under two hours), and topped up from the car with a vehicle charger on a highway run. The option to monitor it via an app was a nice touch too, but not essential.

What to consider before you switch

If you’re mostly doing weekend getaways, travelling with kids, or using multiple vehicles, a portable station makes a lot of sense. You’ll avoid install costs, and you can use it at home or lend it to a mate.

That said, it’s not the lightest bit of gear, and you’ll want to keep it under cover from the rain. Like most big lithium batteries, these aren’t cheap. But if it’s replacing a full dual battery system, it can still work out more affordable.

Final thoughts: Is it time to rethink the setup?

Portable power stations aren’t a gimmick; they’re a practical alternative for a wide range of campers. While they’re not for every scenario, they’ve come far enough to make many people seriously reconsider the need for a traditional dual battery system.

I’m not saying ditch your existing dual setup if it works. But if you’re looking to build a new one – or just want flexibility to use that power in another vehicle or in your home – portable power is well and truly in the race now.

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