Off-grid living can be challenging when it comes to charging phones in a caravan, but this do-it-yourself project offers a practical solution
In a recent DIY project, a homeowner decided to upgrade the electrical system in their 1998 Bailey caravan. The goal was simple - to have two accessible sockets with a shelf, within reach of the bed, for charging phones.
The first step was to acquire the necessary materials. A heavier 2.5mm2 cable, capable of handling up to 16A, was chosen. This cable would provide enough power for the new sockets. A pair of three-way lever-lock connectors was also purchased, as they would be useful for joining the cables without the need for extra wiring.
The chosen sockets had waterproof rubber covers and locking sockets for a snug fit. These surface-mount accessory sockets, specifically a double socket, would be placed to the right of the centre chest, on the front shelf.
However, a problem arose when it came to connecting the cables. The supplied crimp terminals were right-angled and didn't provide enough clearance for the sockets to fit. A solution was found by purchasing dedicated flag terminal crimping pliers, which allowed for a more secure connection.
A hole was drilled in the seat box framing for the cable to pass through. The cable was run on the right-hand side due to the location of the battery. Once the cable was in place, a van accessory fusebox was used to connect the cables to the caravan's electrics. A fuse was added and the surface mount was screwed down.
The heavier cable was initially intended to exit under the unit, but due to a change in plan, it was run under the curtains instead. Two accessory socket-to-USB adaptors were added, with USB-C and USB-A plugs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Interestingly, the accessory sockets in the 1998 Bailey Caravan were installed by the manufacturer, Bailey, and they are typically 12V DC cigarette lighter-style sockets. This project, however, involved the installation of new sockets, providing a more modern and convenient charging solution.
All in all, the project was a success, and the homeowner now has two accessible charging sockets within reach of their bed, making life on the road a little more convenient.
