Basic Solar Parts Needed for a DIY Camper Van or RV Solar Install

Video Description

In this video, we show you the essential solar components needed to kickstart your DIY camper van or RV electrical system. Whether you're just getting started or refining your understanding, we break down the core parts — from solar panels and charge controllers to batteries and inverters — in an easy-to-follow overview. This is Step 1 of building your off-grid solar setup, laying the groundwork for a safe, functional system. If you're ready to go deeper, we’ve linked the full learning series and product resources below. ⚡️ Shop the Gear We Use Everything you see in this video is available in our store — tested, proven, and ready for your next build: https://shop.explorist.life/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=basic_solar_parts_needed_for_a_diy_camper_van_or_rv_solar_install&utm_content=shop_link 🛒 Shop Now: https://shop.explorist.life/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=basic_solar_parts_needed_for_a_diy_camper_van_or_rv_solar_install&utm_content=shop_link 🔋 Shop Battle Born Batteries: https://shop.explorist.life/product-category/all-products/components/batteries/brand-battle-born/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=basic_solar_parts_needed_for_a_diy_camper_van_or_rv_solar_install&utm_content=product_link 🧰 Need Help Designing Your System? Join our Pro Support Membership for personalized help, system reviews, and direct access to our team: 👉 https://shop.explorist.life/prosupportmembership?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=basic_solar_parts_needed_for_a_diy_camper_van_or_rv_solar_install&utm_content=pro_support_membership_link Timestamps 0:00 Introduction 0:46 SOLAR PANELS 0:56 MONOCRYSTALLINE POLYCRYSTALLINE 2:22 CHARGE CONTROLLER 4:08 BATTERIES 4:22 LEAD ACID 4:34 ABSORBANT GLASS MAT (AGM) 7:57 ISOLATOR 8:52 BUSBAR 9:13 BATTERY MONITOR 9:44 DISTRIBUTION BLOCK 11:06 WIRES 12:02 WIRE LUGS 12:24 AC BREAKER BOX 12:48 110v OUTLETS 12:58 SHORE POWER PLUG 13:19 12V SWITCHES 13:30 12v OUTLETS 💬 All products shown in this video are linked in the description or available in the EXPLORIST.life shop. 📝 Related Blog Post: https://www.explorist.life/basic-parts-of-a-diy-camper-solar-setup/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=basic_solar_parts_needed_for_a_diy_camper_van_or_rv_solar_install&utm_content=blog_post_link 🎓 Learn in the EXPLORIST Academy Watch the entire series ad-free, with lesson plans, quizzes, and community discussions: 👉 https://academy.explorist.life/ ❓Need Support? We’re here to help: 👉 https://shop.explorist.life/support?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=basic_solar_parts_needed_for_a_diy_camper_van_or_rv_solar_install&utm_content=support_link 📚 Step-by-Step Learning Series: 🔌 Basic Solar Parts: https://www.explorist.life/basic-parts-of-a-diy-camper-solar-setup/ 📊 Power Audit Calculator: https://www.explorist.life/choosing-a-solar-battery-bank-for-a-camper/ 🔋 Battery Types: https://www.explorist.life/how-many-solar-panels-are-needed-to-power-a-camper/ ☀️ Sizing Solar Panels: https://www.explorist.life/how-many-solar-panels-are-needed-to-power-a-camper/ ⚙️ Charge Controller Guide: https://www.explorist.life/how-to-choose-a-solar-charge-controller-for-your-camper/ 🔌 Inverter Sizing: https://www.explorist.life/how-to-choose-an-inverter-for-your-diy-camper/ ⚡ Shore Power Setup: https://www.explorist.life/how-to-add-shore-power-to-a-diy-camper/ 🚐 Alternator Charging: https://www.explorist.life/how-to-charge-diy-camper-van-batteries-with-vehicle-alternator/ 🧲 Battery Isolators: https://www.explorist.life/how-to-install-a-battery-isolator-in-a-camper-van/ 📟 Battery Monitors: https://www.explorist.life/how-to-install-a-diy-camper-van-solar-battery-monitor/ 🧵 Wire Types & Sizes: https://www.explorist.life/what-wire-to-use-for-diy-camper-solar-system/ 🔥 Fuse Sizing: https://www.explorist.life/what-size-fuses-to-use-for-a-diy-camper-electrical-setup/ 🔌 12V Accessory Wiring: https://www.explorist.life/how-to-wire-12v-plugs-fans-and-accessories-in-a-diy-camper/ 💡 Lighting & Switches: https://www.explorist.life/how-to-wire-12v-lights-switches-2-way-switches-in-a-camper/ 🧭 Wiring Diagrams: https://www.explorist.life/solarwiringdiagrams/