Why I am sticking with lead acid batteries for now … 🪫

As I prepare to install the camper shell on my new truck, I find myself at a crossroads common in the overlanding community: whether to embrace the “latest and greatest” or stick with what works. I’ve decided to move my lead-acid “marine” style accessory batteries over from my old rig. They’ve spent the winter faithfully topped off by solar panels and still hold a respectable capacity, proving that even in an age of lithium dominance, this “legacy” technology remains a formidable choice for those who value practicality and modularity.

The shift toward Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) is undeniable, and for good reason—they offer higher energy density and deeper discharge cycles. However, my entire existing infrastructure, from the PWM solar controller and low-voltage disconnect to the disconnect relay for the starting battery, is engineered specifically for lead-acid. In a modular system, these components are easily swappable; if a single part fails, I can replace it without discarding the whole unit. This repairability is a core tenant of my camping philosophy. While all-in-one power stations like Jackery or Bluetti are popular, they are often “one-trick ponies”—if one internal component fails, the entire box effectively becomes e-waste.

Environmental conditions also weigh heavily on my decision. I am an active camper through autumn, winter, and spring, and lithium batteries present a significant hurdle in sub-freezing temperatures: they generally cannot be charged when the cells are too cold. For someone who relies on power flowing in from solar or an alternator during the colder months, the risk of batteries sitting uncharged is a dealbreaker. Standard lead-acid marine batteries, characterized by thicker lead plates to handle deep discharges and high-vibration environments, are more resilient in these conditions.

Ultimately, while I may explore lithium in the future, it is an upgrade that isn’t currently in the budget for my new truck. There is a fine line between being stubborn and being sensible with expenses. Lead-acid batteries are easily recycled, widely available, and, in my case, already paid for. In the world of off-grid living, where self-sufficiency is paramount, there is a certain wisdom in the old adage: if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.