As Brits, we’re used to a cold snap or two. When it gets chilly, many may feel like their plans have to be put on hold, but that doesn’t always have to be the case, especially for campervan owners. A heater for your campervan is a simple but effective way to keep things nice and toasty while you’re camping.
If you’re looking to safely heat things up, we’ve compiled a handy list of the best campervan heaters plus other ways you can stay warm in your vehicle this winter.
What to consider when picking a campervan heater
- What fuel/energy sources are easily available to you.
- How much you’re able to spend on a heat source in your campervan.
- How much space you have for a heater – will you need to find a storage option?
- Will it heat up all of your campervan space efficiently?
- Does it need to be fitted inside or outside of your campervan?
Wood campervan heaters
We’ll start with a more traditional method that has become popular again in the last couple of years. Wood heaters are more sustainable and, even better, you can find the fuel (aka, wood) pretty much anywhere, making them cost-effective and convenient too.
Even smaller wood-burning heaters create a lot of heat and most are designed to produce minimal smoke, making them ideal for campers.
Electric campervan heaters
Another environmentally friendly but typically pricier option, electric heaters generate heat quickly so you don’t have to wait to get cosy. They also don’t produce any CO2 making them completely emission-free.
They do have a con for campervan users as they need a power source. You will most likely need to utilise an electric hook-up at a campervan-friendly campsite to get the amount of power required to run one of these heaters.
Gas campervan heaters
Gas-powered appliances are a fan favourite for campervan owners and this is true for heaters as well. This is also convenient as you can use the same fuel for all of your campervan appliances.
They’ll heat up your space independently but it is worth noting that not all are designed for enclosed spaces, so make sure you double-check before you buy. If you’re working with limited room, a portable gas heater could be a great, space-saving option.
Petrol campervan heaters
A good alternative to gas heaters, petrol campervan heaters can actually be attached to your camper’s existing petrol tank (if it has one). They’re easy to use and the petrol consumption is lower than you’d think.
It isn’t the most eco-friendly option but, due to the inclusion of a fan and the lack of additional costs, it is a cheaper option that heats up a smaller space efficiently.
Diesel campervan heaters
Similar to petrol heaters, if your campervan runs on diesel, you can use your fuel tank to also run a diesel heater. They’ll heat your vehicle similarly too.
Diesel heaters are more expensive than gas heaters and you should also bear in mind that there are restrictions on diesel vehicles across Europe which could hinder how you use your diesel heater on your travels.
Water campervan heaters
For easy access to warm water, water heaters can be a good option for some modern campervans as they work alongside the existing heating system to create hot air that then heats up your water.
This may not heat your whole camper, but hot water is essential to keeping warm during the winter months (and to having a decent cuppa).
Heater safety
Make sure you read all the safety warnings labelled on your heater of choice. This will also include checking how long it is safe to have that heater on for.
You should ensure that your heater isn’t covered up or near anything flammable when in use. A fire alarm may be handy to have installed too. If you have a diesel or petrol heater, your campervan should also have a working carbon monoxide detector.
Other ways to stay warm in your campervan
Insulation
Insulating your campervan is a long-term way to keep your vehicle warm and save some cash doing it, This can work with your choice of heater to ensure you keep the warmth in while you’re camping.
Blankets and thermals
Layering up is a tried and true way of staying warm while you camp. If you don’t use your campervan often in the winter or get caught out without a heat source, having thick blankets and thermal clothes to hand could feel like a lifesaver. You could even treat yourself to a heated blanket (just make sure you have a safe way of charging it while on the road).
Cover any windows
Windows can let out heat, even when closed. We recommend covering them at night with silver screens or a fabric that has a thermal lining to ensure you keep in the heat. Dark curtains will also help with this.
Carpets
Just like covering campervan windows stops heat escaping, so does having a carpet on your campervan floor. They provide insulation and, trust us, you’ll feel a lot better putting your feet on carpet than a cold floor.
Draught skirts and awnings
Two heating hacks that are perfect for campervan conversions. Draught skirts stop cold air from circulating beneath your space. Awnings can be installed to prevent drafts.
Caulking and stripping
You may need to add or replace the weather stripping around your campervan’s windows and doors to make sure the interior stays toasty. You can also re-caulk your windows so heat is less likely to escape.
Insuring your campervan
Whatever time of year you’re travelling in your campervan, you’ll want the correct insurance. Sterling offers a range of campervan insurance policies for you to pick from so you can find what works for your vehicle.
You can call our advisors on 0344 381 9990, or book a free callback at a time that’s convenient for you.
