DC wireless chargers for vans and boats are not just hype, as some critics say. They have genuinely improved the smartphone experience while off-grid by eliminating the need to fumble with charging cables. You also won't have to worry about your phone losing power because a USB charging port or cable has been damaged.
That said, you can only enjoy the benefits of wireless charging with the right charger. This is important because wireless chargers differ in their charging methods, charging speeds, wireless charging technologies, and other key features. The new Treklo Tri-Coil 15W Pad is our top choice for value and functionality, but an active-grip model will be the better option if you seek secure phone mounting.
Here are a few examples:
- Treklo Tri-Coil Surface 15W Wireless Charger Pad β for those who want to charge phones of varying sizes
- ROKK Grip Edge 10W Wireless Charger Clamp Mount β for those who want to charge their phone while it's locked down within their view
- Cove 3-Coil Storage 15W Wireless Charger Cubby β for those who want to charge their phone while stored out of plain sight
Open-Surface vs Cubby vs Active-Grip Wireless Chargers: What's the Difference?
One thing you'll notice when shopping for a wireless charger for your adventure vehicle or boat is that not all models are the same. One of the biggest differences is the design, as you'll need to decide whether an open-surface, cubby, or active-grip wireless charger best suits your needs.
While all three operate using electromagnetic induction and serve the same purpose β wirelessly charging your phone β they are designed for different applications.
Open-Surface Wireless Chargers
An open-surface wireless charger is the simplest design, featuring only a flat charging area. It has no enclosing walls or retention mechanism, allowing your phone to rest freely on the charging surface.
Storage Cubby Wireless Chargers
Also known as a wireless charging pocket, this design incorporates a storage compartment with an opening where you place your phone. The opening may be positioned on the top (for vertically installed cubbies) or on the side (for horizontally installed cubbies).
Active-Grip Wireless Chargers
Unlike the other two designs, an active-grip wireless charger uses a retention mechanism to secure your phone in place. This may consist of spring-loaded clamping jaws or a magnetic mounting system that holds the device firmly while charging.
The Best 12V Wireless Chargers for Caravans, Campervans, RVs and Boats
We currently offer eight designs of wireless chargers for caravans, campervans, RVs, and boats. Below is a summary of their key features and ideal applications.
| Type of Charger | Best Application | |
|---|---|---|
| Treklo Tri-Coil Surface 15W Wireless Charger Pad | Open Surface | Compatible with a wide range of phone sizes |
| ROKK Grip Edge 10W Wireless Charger Clamp Mount | Active Grip | Securely holds your phone in various viewing orientations |
| Magnetic Grip Aura 10W Wireless Charger Cubby | Active Grip/Storage Cubby | Secures your phone inside a storage pocket |
| Cove 3-Coil Storage 15W Wireless Charger Cubby | Storage Cubby | Keeps your phone hidden from plain sight while charging |
| Low-Profile Surface 10W Wireless Charger Pad | Open Surface | Suitable for a variety of phone sizes in outdoor environments |
| ROKK Grip Active 10W Wireless Charger Clamp | Active Grip | Securely holds your phone in portrait orientation |
| ROKK Grip Nano 10W Wireless Charger Clamp | Active Grip | Ideal for installations where space is limited |
| Pop-Up Surface 15W Wireless Charger with Dual USB | Open Surface | Supports a wide range of phone sizes while also providing wired charging options |
Open-Surface 12Vβ24V Wireless Chargers
Open-surface wireless chargers are ideal for anyone who needs to charge multiple phones of different sizes. Their borderless design accommodates both small and large devices while making it easier to correctly align your phone over the charging coil for optimal charging efficiency.
A few examples of open-surface wireless chargers available in our store include:
Treklo Tri-Coil Surface 15W Wireless Charger Pad
The Treklo Tri-Coil 15W Pad is currently the best overall open-surface wireless charger in our store. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also delivers effortless, efficient, and fast wireless charging.
In terms of efficiency, the charger features a three-coil charging system that creates a wider charging area. This allows you to simply place your device on the pad without the hassle of perfectly aligning it with the charging coil.
As a fast wireless charger, it delivers up to 15W of power, with outputs of 5V @ 3A or 9V @ 1.66A. As a result, compatible Samsung phones can charge up to twice as fast as they would on a 5W charger and about 30% faster than on a 10W charger.
Other key features of this Treklo wireless charger include:
- Tray-like design
- 10β32V input voltage range
- Qi-certified compatibility
- Multi-layer safety protection
Scanstrut Low-Profile Surface 10W Wireless Charger Pad
If you need an open-surface wireless charger that can be mounted outdoors or in areas exposed to the elements, the Scanstrut Low-Profile 10W Pad is an excellent choice. It features an IPX6 rating, so you do not have to worry about moisture, water splashes, rain, or even powerful water jets.
The charger is also constructed from high-impact, UV-stable materials for enhanced durability and reliability. Then, it incorporates an advanced thermal management system that automatically reduces charging speed or stops charging altogether when ambient temperatures become excessively high or low.
Other notable features of this wireless charging pad include:
- 10Vβ30V input voltage range
- Up to 10W of wireless charging power
- Less than 0.3W standby power consumption
- High-friction, non-slip charging surface
- Smart foreign-object detection system
Pop-Up Surface 15W Wireless Charger with Dual USB
Although currently out of stock, the Pop-Up Surface 15W has been one of our best-selling wireless charging solutions. This is because it offers exceptional value for money, delivering reliable performance at a price point of under $50.
For charging, the unit provides up to 15W of wireless power output with an efficiency rating of up to 80%. It also supports Qi wireless charging, making it compatible with most smartphones on the market.
In addition, the Pop-Up wireless charger operates with both 12V and 24V DC power systems. It also includes built-in USB-C and USB-A ports for added versatility.
Other key features of this charger include:
- Up to 30W output through the USB-C port
- Up to 18W output through the USB-A port
- Durable nylon and fibre construction
- Pre-wired with a 150mm twin-core cable
Active-Grip 12Vβ24V Wireless Chargers
Unlike the open-surface type, an active-grip wireless charger holds your phone securely in position while charging. This ensures efficient charging while keeping the device within easy reach and preventing it from falling while the vehicle is in motion.
Here are three examples of wireless phone chargers with clamping systems that are ideal for adventure vehicles:
ROKK Grip Edge 10W Wireless Charger Clamp Mount
The ROKK Edge 10W is our top recommendation in the active-grip category. It offers everything you need for an efficient, reliable, and enjoyable wireless charging experience.
One of its standout features is the extension arm and ball-joint socket, which allow you to position your phone in either portrait or landscape orientation. This makes it easy to enjoy music, movies, or entertainment videos on a wider screen view while your device charges.
The active-grip system consists of two clamping jaws with a built-in self-aligning spring mechanism. It also supports one-handed operation, as pushing one jaw automatically opens the other.
A few other notable features of this charging system include:
- Up to 10W charging power
- 10Vβ30V DC input voltage
- IPX6 waterproof and UV-stable construction
- Supports phones from 4.7 to 6.8 inches
- Qi-certified wireless charging technology
ROKK Grip Nano 10W Wireless Charger Clamp
The ROKK Nano 10W is an excellent alternative if you like the charging performance and phone security of the Edge but want a more budget-friendly option. It features the same self-aligning, spring-loaded clamping jaws, allowing you to dock and remove your phone easily with one hand.
The charger also delivers 10W of true Qi wireless charging and accepts a 10Vβ30V DC input, making it compatible with both 12V and 24V battery systems.
To achieve its compact footprint, however, Scanstrut reduced the extension range of the clamping jaws to 2.16β4.17 inches. As a result, phones can only be mounted in portrait orientation, even with smaller models such as the iPhone Mini.
Other noteworthy features include:
- Made from high-impact ABS
- IPX6 waterproof and UV-stable
- Less than 0.2W standby power consumption
- Built-in thermal management system
ROKK Grip Active 10W Wireless Charger Clamp
The ROKK Active 10W is another excellent alternative to the Edge for caravans, campervans, RVs, and boats. In fact, we consider it the base version of the ROKK Edge, as the two models are nearly identical apart from the extension arm.
This charger offers a 10Vβ30V DC input range, 10W true Qi wireless charging, and spring-loaded clamping jaws with a self-aligning mechanism. It is also IPX6 waterproof, UV-stable, and features clamping jaws that accommodate phones ranging from 4.7 to 6.8 inches in size.
Storage Cubby 12Vβ24V Wireless Chargers
The main advantage of cubby wireless chargers is that they allow you to charge your phone while keeping it safely stored and within easy reach. Some models feature a raised bezel that acts as a safety barrier, ensuring your device remains securely in place until you remove it.
Two excellent examples of storage wireless charging systems are:
Magnetic Grip Aura 10W Wireless Charger Cubby
Although slightly more expensive, the Magnetic Aura 10W is undoubtedly our top recommendation for wireless pocket charging. The feature we like most is its built-in magnetic technology, which securely snaps your iPhone or Android phone into the charging area.
By combining a storage cubby with magnetic retention, this charger keeps your phone exceptionally secure while charging. It even includes a spring-loaded locking grip at the front to ensure your device remains firmly in place when travelling over rough, high-vibration terrain.
In terms of charging convenience, this charger delivers true 10W Qi wireless charging. It is also IPX6-rated and UV-stable, allowing you to confidently install it in exposed locations without durability concerns.
Other notable features of this Scanstrut charger include:
- High-grade ABS construction
- Integrated water-draining hole
- Less than 0.2W standby power draw
- Compatibility with both 12V and 24V DC power systems
Cove 3-Coil Storage 15W Wireless Charger Cubby
The Cove 3-Coil 15W is another excellent wireless charging pocket to consider for your van or boat. It is actually faster than the Aura model, delivering up to 15W of charging power β approximately 30% faster than the 10W version.
As its name suggests, this charger features a three-coil charging system, providing improved charging efficiency regardless of where your device is positioned within the cubby. It also uses true Qi wireless charging technology, so you can install it with confidence, knowing it is compatible with most iPhone and Samsung devices.
Unlike the Aura, which leaves part of your phone visible while charging, the Cove 3-Coil keeps your device completely concealed. You can only access and use your phone after removing it from the charging compartment.
Other features worth noting include:
- Built-in LED charging status indicator
- Integrated thermal management system
- IPX6 waterproof and UV-resistant construction
- Compatibility with 12V and 24V DC power systems
- Foreign object detection and reverse polarity protection
Potential Drawbacks of Each Wireless Charger Type
Open-Surface Chargers
Unfortunately, the barrier-free design of an open-surface wireless charger relies on a passive grip system to hold your phone in place. As a result, the device may shift out of the charging area when the vehicle turns corners or travels over rough terrain. This can lead to inefficient charging or even cause the phone to fall off the charging pad.
Active-Grip Chargers
The design of active-grip wireless chargers varies. Some feature extendable clamping jaws, while others use an upright magnetic cradle. As a result, they may be limited in the range of phone sizes they can accommodate.
Storage Cubby Chargers
Due to their enclosed design, wireless charging cubbies can only accommodate devices that fit within their dimensions. Your phone may also shift around inside the compartment while driving, which could potentially reduce charging efficiency.
Which Is the Best Wireless Charger for Your Van or Boat?
The right wireless charging system for your van, motorhome, or boat ultimately depends on your specific needs. If your primary goal is simply to charge your phone without the inconvenience of cables, any of the three wireless charger types will serve you well.
However, each type excels in different applications, so it is important to identify your priorities before making a decision. For example, you may want:
- An open-surface wireless charger such as the Treklo Tri-Coil 15W Pad if you are working with a smaller budget or need compatibility with a wider range of phone sizes.
- An active-grip wireless charger such as the ROKK Edge 10W if you want the most convenient, efficient, and secure wireless charging solution.
- A storage wireless charger such as the Cove 3-Coil 15W if you want to charge your phone while keeping it within reach but safely out of sight.
Is a Wired Charger Better Than a Wireless Charger?
Yes and no. Both wired and wireless chargers are great accessories to have in your van. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to your charging needs, budget, and personal preferences. Each option also comes with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Pros of wireless chargers:
- 100% cable-free charging
- Cost-effective in the long run
- Driver-friendly on the road or at sea
- One-handed phone docking and undocking
- Consistent charging without accidental disconnections
Cons of wireless chargers:
- Higher initial cost
- Slightly lower charging efficiency
- May be limited to certain phone sizes or compatibility requirements
Pros of wired chargers:
- Lower initial cost
- More efficient charging
- Allows charging from a greater distance
- Compatible with any supported phone
Cons of wired chargers:
- Cables can disconnect easily
- Can be distracting while driving
- Charging cables are prone to wear and damage
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can a wireless charger for caravans charge my phone?
The charging speed of any wireless charger depends on its power output. For example, a 10W wireless charger can typically charge a Samsung phone from 1% to 100% in approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. This is about two hours faster than a 5W charger but around 30β50 minutes slower than a 15W charger.
Is the Magnetic Aura wireless charger the same as an Apple MagSafe charger?
The magnetic technology used in the Scanstrut Aura wireless charger is not the same as Apple's proprietary MagSafe technology. However, MagSafe contributed significantly to the development of the Magnetic Power Profile (MPP) used in the Wireless Power Consortium's (WPC) Qi2 standard. This advancement has enabled other manufacturers to adopt magnetic wireless charging technology without paying licensing fees to Apple.
Why is my wireless charger not charging my phone?
If the wireless charger in your caravan, campervan, RV, or boat is not charging your phone, there are several possible causes:
- Your power source is offline
- The charger or its circuit is damaged
- The phone is not positioned correctly on the charger
- Your phone case contains a metallic plate
- The ambient temperature is too high or too low
- Your phone's wireless charging system is faulty
Are the new 15W wireless chargers Qi2 or Qi certified?
Qi2-certified chargers are essentially Qi wireless chargers that incorporate built-in permanent magnets to automatically align the phone's receiving coil with the charger's transmitting coil. As a result, Qi2 chargers can be rated at 5W, 10W, 15W, or higher, depending on the manufacturer's specifications. Some Qi2 chargers can deliver up to 25W of power. However, not all wireless chargers with built-in magnets are Qi2-certified. Some 5W, 10W, and 15W magnetic wireless chargers still use the original Qi standard rather than the newer Qi2 technology.
Ready to go cable-free? Start with our top-value pick, the Treklo Tri-Coil 15W wireless charger pad, available now at Campervan Builders.
