Thanks for all of the information and feedback so far. Here's what I'm learning:
I could make use of a smaller system (like the 640 Wh one I built) to charge phones and laptops and lights and such, leaving the big system to serve the fridge,kettle, and hair dryer. That smaller 640 Wh system would easily charge from 200W of solar most of the time. I'm just not sure if it makes sense to have two systems.
I could charge phones and lights off of a small USB power bank, and make use of a small folding panel to recharge that. When we're driving, they'll charge off the car anyway, and so could the USB bank.
- I have a power consumption problem.
- I need more accurate estimates for anticipated loads. Ideally actual data.
- I need to reduce consumption. Ideally below 1 kWh/day.
- I have a charging problem.
- Going to need shore, solar, and alternator charging if I plan to use 1.7-2.1 kWh/day.
- Need to find 300+ watts for the roof, and another 300+ watts for ground deployment when stationary.
- If I can get my consumption below 1 kWh/day, I think the situation is less challenging.
- My inverter loads are driving everything else.
- I knew this, but it was helpful to see the inverter characterized as an OPTION, not a DEFAULT.
- I should stick with 12V if I can, because it's simpler.
- I should try to solve the BMS sustained current problem with a better BMS/battery, not higher voltage.
- If I go 24V, that's fine, but zero reason to go past that. I should still try to stick with 12V.
- Given my expected AC loads, a 1800-2000W inverter would be best.
- I should try to eliminate the need for the inverter. That also solves the BMS problem.
- I should investigate 12V kettles and hair dryers and see if consumption is lower.
- Even if consumption is the same or a bit higher, eliminating the inverter may still make that worthwhile.
- If I can't eliminate the inverter, maybe I can greatly reduce the inverter size.
- I should just punt on the kettle and use the propane stove we will already have to heat water.
I could make use of a smaller system (like the 640 Wh one I built) to charge phones and laptops and lights and such, leaving the big system to serve the fridge,
I could charge phones and lights off of a small USB power bank, and make use of a small folding panel to recharge that. When we're driving, they'll charge off the car anyway, and so could the USB bank.