Life in a modem motorhome cannot function without electricity. Most of the kit in our motorhomes, even gas appliances, use electronic ignition or control systems and, of course, there's the need to charge our personal devices.
Most motorhomes have a 12V electrical system and a facility to hook up to a 230V mains system as used at home. Much of the on-board equipment is designed to work on 12V electric via a leisure battery and the mains hook-up simply keeps the battery topped up via an on-board charger.
The exceptions are space and water heating systems, which usually have the option of 230V heating elements, three-way fridges and electric ovens or hobs. Any portable mains appliances like kettles and hair dryers will need a mains supply unless you have an inverter to convert 12V to 230V.
Whatever system you use, you need to remember that it's not only mains electric that can be dangerous and even fatal. A 12V system fault may not kill you directly, but I have seen the result of a DIY 12V alteration resulting in a devasting caravan fire. So, whenever modifying your electrical systems, seek expert advice or get an experienced motorhome workshop to undertake the work for you.
MAINS HOOK-UP
Most campsites and many smaller five Van sites offer an electrical hook-up. Not all offerings will be the same, mainstream campsites will generally offer a 16A supply while other sites may offer 10A or less. In Europe it's not uncommon to find campsites with
