Can You Reduce the Battery Size to Save Weight On a Trailer

Updated 12/03/2021 | Published 12/02/2021

Question:

What is the smallest lead-acid battery I can use in my travel trailer? I am looking to save weight when towing and I always have shore power when camping, so my primary power draws are exterior lighting and braking while towing single axle, small travel trailer, power supplied from tow vehicle through 7-pin and operation of the breakaway in an emergency. Can I use a battery like the ones used on lawn tractors, which are about 20 amp hours or so. Thanks

asked by: Joseph B

Expert Reply:

If you are looking to reduce the weight of your battery then the best option is to switch to lithium which are up to 30% lighter than lead acid. In regards to the exact size you need, I really don't recommend straying away from the size the trailer came equipped with originally as this is what they have determine suitable for the trailer and normal use. If you wanted to go with a smaller battery you'd need to calculate your specific needs by running some power draw tests. The RV Lithium Battery part # GP99QR is what I recommend, it has a 100 amp hour rating and only weighs about 20 lbs. I have attached our full selection below if you want/need another size

expert reply by: Conner L