Practical Gifts For Campers

A practical gift has a specific use that campers will need daily or will definitely want on hand for those “just in case” occasions. Right on the top of your list of campervan gift ideas, look out for:

Portable LED Lantern

Many campers have been caught out on the road without a flashlight or lantern at some point. This gift is not only an essential camping tool but also something that can help them navigate any dark spaces inside their campervan. As a bonus this flashlight can double as a fan, making it a super-practical campervan gift!

Buy it on Amazon

Insulated Window Covers

Most campers won’t admit that they feel too cold or too hot in their trailers. However, this gets old real quick after spending all day in the great outdoors.

Insulated window covers will help campers adjust the temperature inside their campervan by blocking out sunlight in summer and keeping warm during the cold months, allowing them to sleep better at night.

Buy it on Amazon

Swiss Army knife

So much more than just a knife! Every adventurer knows how crucial it is to have a pocketknife handy on camping adventures. Each tool has its unique purpose, and campervan owners are sure to need at least one of these in their van at all times!

Buy it on Amazon

Emergency Kit

One of the essential things for any campervan owner is to have emergency kits on-hand at all times. They should have a larger one somewhere in their campervan and a smaller first aid kit in their day pack.

The more you can help them be prepared, the less time they’ll spend worrying about emergencies that could happen when they’re out on the road.

Buy it on Amazon

A Tool Kit

Every home needs a tool kit for those running repairs and handy work; homes on wheels are absolutely no exception!

Your new camper will certainly appreciate a brand new tool kit filled with all the essential everyday tools they could need, or an experienced camper might appreciate a brand new toolbox for storing all the supplies they’ve been building up on their van adventure.

Buy it on Amazon

A Dashcam

If your campervan lover does a lot on the open road, then they might like to have a dashcam in their vehicle. It’s something they can use on every single journey, and it will remind them of how much you care about their safety.

Buy it on Amazon

Walkie Talkies

A set of walkie-talkies is a fun but practical addition to any road trip! Super useful if your campervan owner will be traveling in a convoy with other families.

They’re also useful around camp too. If kids want to wander off and explore nearby, it’s a great way to ensure your group can be tracked down without the need for cell phones.

Buy it on Amazon

300W Car Power Inverter

This is the perfect gift idea for someone who spends a lot of time on the road and runs their laptop and other things off the battery.

If your loved one doesn’t already have a portable power station, they can use this to charge up all of their devices on the go.

Buy it on Amazon

Hydro Flask Insulated Can 

If your loved one is the type who likes to take a picnic with them on their journey, then you can’t go wrong with a hydro flask. These cups keep drinks cold for 24 hours and hot beverages warm for up to 6 hours making them a great gift for campers.

Buy it on Amazon

Microfiber Bath Towel

Looking for a practical campervan gift, you know your loved one will need to use daily? You can’t get much more practical than a portable towel. Microfiber dries much quicker than traditional heavy cotton towels, so makes the perfect choice for a camper.

Buy it on Amazon

An Outdoor Shower

What if there are no showers nearby? Cue the portable shower! Life on the road doesn’t mean you have to live with a shower in a can every day; treat your camper to proper running water that can even heat to 113°F when left in the sun. this is the perfect campervan gift for those who love going off-grid.

Buy it on Amazon

Portable Drill

Any campervan owner who has spent good lengths of time living in their van will attest to how handy it can be to carry a portable drill with you.

Sure they need a little bit of that precious packing space, but they’re also a super practical gift idea for campers they’ll truly thank you for, from running repairs to setting up more complex camp structures.

Buy it on Amazon

LifeStraw Go Water

LifeStraw Go Water Bottles are arguably one of the best water bottles for travelers. If your campervan friend finds they are staying somewhere without potable water or out on day hikes and need to collect water from streams, the LifeStraw comes with a built-in membrane microfilter to banish impurities and improve the taste.

Buy it on Amazon

Scrubba Portable Wash Bag

The slightly less glamorous side of van life; the washing still needs to be done! If your camper is not regularly staying at campsites with laundry facilities, the perfect solution to keep clothing clean on the move is a Scrubba portable wash bag.

They fold down to next to nothing when not in use, are so easy to store, and contain a flexible washboard surface to ensure clothing can still get a decent scrub on the move, a great gift idea if you want something super practical

Buy it on Amazon

Portable Fire Pit

When you don’t have much space inside, having the option of an outdoor portable propane fire pit for cooking is the perfect solution for a camper. No dirty ash and firewood to deal with, this propane-powered model is lightweight and sets up in minutes.

Buy it on Amazon

Heated Camping Chair

There are two schools of thought on camping chairs; light enough to carry in your day pack and go anywhere, or ultra deluxe and comfortable for your campsite; but why not get a camp chair that delivers both?

This heated camp chair will bring your camper the comfort they deserve in their outdoor adventure with plenty of nifty storage pockets and adjustable heights (Battery packs are sold separately – see below!)

Buy it on Amazon

A Portable Charger

This gift is perfect and practical for every type of traveler as you never know when that little extra boost of battery power is needed, be it for your campers all-important cell phone or any of the great camping gadgets and gizmos we’ve mentioned here!

Buy it on Amazon

Smart Car Battery Charger

That little extra peace of mind, especially if you’re camper is one to head off the beaten track; no one wants to return to their vehicle and find themselves stranded with a dead battery.

This 6V/12V car battery charger and maintainer is one of the most practical and useful gifts you can buy for your campervan owner.

Buy it on Amazon

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are one of those items that you don’t know how much you need until you have them.

Whether they’re travellers, working, or living in their campervan, people will use these to store all of their possessions neatly, perfect for keeping the campervan organized.

Buy it on Amazon

Hanging Storage

Now any organized camper knows you can never have enough storage space!

A hanging organizer is a great campervan gift idea as it allows your campers with limited space to easily grab important items without rummaging through bags and storage boxes, or cluttering up valuable surface space.

Buy it on Amazon

Portable Solar Panels

If your campervan lover is regularly off-grid, this can be one of the most thoughtful and practical gifts they can receive.

This starter solar panel kit can create up to 1000Wh per day with 5 hours of sunshine and comes with all the cables and connections your camper needs for a complete, self-sufficient setup.

Buy it on Amazon

Car Defroster

An ultra-practical item for campervan owners who love to get out and explore in winter, this nifty little device easily mounts on the dash to get windows defogger in no time.

Buy it on Amazon

Portable Van Heater

Another must for your winter camper is a safe and effective form of heating for their campervan.

The Big Buddy from Mr Heater is a great option as it has an automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS) and accidental tip-over safety shut-off, ideal for use in confined spaces.

Buy it on Amazon

Clip on Fan

At the other end of the temperature extremes, your campers will truly appreciate a source of cool air in the summer months. A rechargeable fan with 360-degree rotation would be a super handy gift for a camper.

Buy it on Amazon

Car Fridge

If their camper doesn’t come fitted with a fridge, this is one seriously cool piece of kit you could gift a campervan owner.

Move over cooler boxes, this portable car fridge has dual zone fridge/freer compartments, keeping food and drinks icy cold. Available in wheeled and non-wheeled models, the BrougeRV 12 Volt Fridge is a top-of-the-range gift for a campervan owner that will last them for years to come.

Buy it on Amazon

Fun & Sentimental Gifts For Campers

The sentimental gift is the type of gift that tells someone, “I think about you all year long.” The best examples in this category for campervan owners include:

Cozy Throw Blanket

One of the creature comforts of your home away from home is a wonderfully soft blanket you can cuddle up with at the end of the day.

Buy it on Amazon

Personalized Drink Coasters

Adding a personalized touch to your loved ones’ camper, these pretty but practical drink coasters can be etched with your friend’s name, details about their road trip, or add an inspiring family adventure quote for that perfect animal van accessory they’ll use again and again.

Buy it on Amazon

Campervan Name Vinyl Decal Sticker

Nothing can personalize a campervan like proudly displaying its name for all to see. I mean, are you even a camper if you haven’t named your van?!

This cute but inexpensive campervan gift is sure to add a magic touch to your campervan owner’s gift stocking.

Buy it on Etsy

Camping Journal & RV Travel Logbook

Does your campervan-lover enjoy journalling and keeping records from their adventures? This is a wonderful sentimental gift for a van-lifer.

Complete with road-tripping planning and logbook templates, they can use to record every detail from their days of adventure on the road.

Buy it on Amazon

A Personalized Mug

Every campervan owner will adore these durable 12oz enamel camping mugs for their morning brew.

Personalize it for your camper’s favorite color and add a meaningful message for a thoughtful camper gift this Christmas!

Buy it on Etsy

Campervan Doormat

What about a personalized doormat for a fun gift that absolutely screams homeliness? Not only a welcome gesture to someone’s little home on wheels, but it will also get shoes rubbed clean before they go inside! A win-win campervan gift they’ll cherish!

Buy it on Etsy

Campervan Ornament

If it’s simply a stocking filler you need for a van lifer, these adorable handmade campervan ornaments are sure to fit the bill as great Christmas gifts.

You can get them personalized with the recipient’s name, or perhaps add the dates of their epic road trip as a lasting memory of their adventure on the road.

Buy it on Etsy

Entertaining Gifts For Campers

Your campervan owner will surely be looking for ways to stay entertained in their home away from home. Whether this be lazing around the campsite, passing the miles on the road, or cooking up a storm on the campfire.

Here are some great entertaining gift ideas for campervan owners that are sure to please and pass the time.

Bluetooth Beanie

Even if your loved one has their hands full, they can still listen to music with this wireless Bluetooth beanie. When the weather is cold, the last thing they want to do is take off their gloves. With this gift, however, they can keep warm and stay in touch with their favorite tunes or podcast playing.

Buy it on Amazon

Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Fun gifts for campervan owners have to include something to play their tunes!

If you want to share the tunes with a wider group, then a waterproof and portable speaker is a must for every campsite! The only question they’ll have is whose playlist to choose?

Buy it on Amazon

Air-Filled Bean Bag Loungers

Air-filled loungers are one of the coolest camping accessories on the market just now. They are super easy to set up and take down, and unlike traditional bean bags, bearly weigh anything and take up minimal space in your van.

Made from durable 210T waterproof polyester, they are rip-resistant, have side pockets to hold essentials like mobile phones, and can handle a whopping 450lbs!

Buy it on Amazon

Self-Stirring Mug

Does the campervan owner in your life enjoy a hot cup of coffee? An easy way to skip the morning fuss, give them a self-stirring coffee mug for a cool camping gadget sure to impress. A truly unique gift, it’s also great for making cold beverages like iced coffee, tea, or even lemonade.

Buy it on Amazon

Portable Espresso Maker

A portable espresso maker is a perfect gift for an RV owner. Nothing says you are thinking of them in the morning like a hot cup of espresso to get their day started right.

Buy it on Amazon

The Instant Pot

Every campervan owner should own this cookware. It’s the perfect multi-cooker as you can use it as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, and warmer.

It is one of the best Christmas gifts for campers if they only have a small kitchen; you need to limit your appliances to only the most useful, and this is it!

Buy it on Amazon

Camp Chef Outdoor Camp Oven

Now, if you’ve got a camper who loves to cook outdoors and wants to up their camp cooking game this year, this is a great campervan gift idea.

All the creature comforts you could want in a portable oven, it includes two brass range burners and an oven that heats to 400° F. Powered by disposable propane cylinders (so don’t forget to add a few of these with your gift), this is one serious camper gift bound to last them for years.

Buy it on Amazon

Family Board Games

If your campervan owner is hitting the road with loved ones, it’s essential they have a few classic games up their sleeve to pass the time, especially in preparation for those rainy days!

Travel game boxes don’t take up much room when you only have a small living space; better yet, many family trivia games for road trips will take up no room at all.

Buy it on Amazon

Home Is Where I Park it Tshirt

A great idea for your female campervan owner “Home Is Where I Park It” soft cotton tees come in a huge range of colors and sizes. This is a wonderful Christmas stocking stuffer idea if you’re seeking fun gifts that won’t break the bank but will definitely get some use.

Buy it on Etsy

America The Beautiful – National Parks Pass

If your campervan owner is spending any time driving across the USA this year, there’s a high chance they’ll be stopping in at a National Park or three!

The best thing you can get them is an America the Beautiful annual pass. This gives access not only to all 63 US National Parks, but also to Federal Recreation Lands and National Monuments across the United States.

Buy it on REI

Camp Cocktail Recipes

The perfect end to any evening on a camping trip, when everyone’s had enough of roasting marshmallows and hot cocoa, it’s time to pull out the cocktail recipes!

Thoughtfully designed with the limited tools your campervan owner may have, these outdoor cocktail recipe ideas are bound to go down a treat with this unique van life gift!

Buy it on Amazon

Gift Cards

When all else fails and you are stumped for a gift idea, how about a gift card to their favorite outdoor store? This will depend on your region, but REI is perfect for a van lifer, and Amazon, for basically anything you need delivered fast, can make great gifts for RV owners and campers.

Think about even a coffee store voucher for when they want to enjoy a little luxury treat on the road could also be a wonderful and thoughtful gift idea for van lifers.

Found Something Your Campervan Owner Will Love?

Campervan lovers are constantly looking for new ways to improve their rides and make life on the road a little more comfortable. It means they are always on the lookout for gadgets, gizmos, and things that will make their traveling adventure more efficient.

If anything, they’ll appreciate knowing that you are thinking about them while they are on their road trip, so whether it’s super practical or sentimental, try one of these 40+ best campervan gifts next time you’re shopping for a campervan owner to brighten their day.

• Campervan owners with kids? Check out these road-tripping toy suggestions too

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Home is Where You Park It: 40+ Amazing Gifts for Campervan Enthusiasts appeared first on Family Road Trip.

Your Ultimate Campervan Heating Solutions Guide

Your family vacation just got a whole lot more interesting if you’ve chosen to hire a campervan. It’s undoubtedly going to be cheaper than a hotel and probably a lot more convenient, too.

However, while some of the essentials of your vacation may be taken care of by the rental company, heating in your campervan may not be one of them.

Before you hit the road in winter, make sure you’re all set to stay warm when it gets cold at night. There are several methods of heating a campervan, but knowing which one to choose for your specific situation can be tricky.

Firstly, we’re going to take a look at what sort of heaters you should use in the confined space of a campervan, then a roundup of some of the best models of campervan heaters to try this winter.

Different Types of Camper/Campervan Heaters

There are many different types of campervan heaters. However, before fitting one, you need to consider the space available in your van and how much noise you are prepared to put up with during quiet night stops. These types of heaters include:

Gas and Propane

These heaters operate from a gas bottle to a fan, which forces hot air into the van through vents on the floor. This type of heater is perfect for heating your van quickly and efficiently. However, getting them going can be difficult if they aren’t turned on and off frequently when it’s cold.

These heaters are also more likely to produce a smell, and the fanning of the hot air may blow dust around your interior.

Electric Heaters

These are similar to in-home electric heaters as they also come with fans. However, the heating elements are located at the top of the unit instead of in an enclosed compartment near the floor.

These heaters usually have a more even circulation of air. They won’t blow dust around your interior like gas/propane heaters. However, they are generally slower to heat your campervan, and the cost of running them for long periods could be expensive.

They rely on your campervan having an electric hook up, or you’ll drain your battery, fast!

Wood-burning Stove

These types of heaters burn wood or other solid fuels to produce a large amount of heat. They are generally very good at heating your van but have the disadvantage of being difficult to get going and keep going due to the need for dry fuel.

These stoves also must be vented out of your campervan, so they wouldn’t be suitable for camping in windy conditions. These heaters also require a high level of maintenance and cleaning to operate well and reduce the risk of chimney fires.

We’re goi8ng to focus on the first two types of campervan heaters.

11 Best Campervan Heaters in Winter 2022-23

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1. Our Top Pick For All Campers: Mr. Heater Buddy

The Mr. Heater Buddy is a portable propane heater with a built-in fan that provides a powerful heat output, ideal for use inside your campervan. Built for use both indoors and outdoors, it has a swivel-out cylinder connection to refuel the unit easily and a high-temperature wire guard for safety.

It comes with a built-in automatic shutoff feature, which will turn itself off if left unattended. Another great feature is that you can use it both indoors and outdoors, so if the power fails or your campsite has no electricity, you will still be able to stay warm. It comes with a 1-year warranty for your peace of mind.

Key Features

• 4,000-9000 BTU heat output
• Can heat areas up to 225 sq ft
• Heavy duty design
• Automatic shut off if tipped
• Swivel-out cylinder connection
• Easy grip handle for portability
• A high-temperature wire guard
• Run time of 2.4 hours on high or 5.4 hours on low
• Weight: 9 pounds

Possible Cons

• You’ll need a good supply of 1lb propane cylinders (sold separately)
• Not recommend for use above 7000 feet

If you want to heat an even larger area, we suggest you upgrade to the Big Buddy by Mr. Heater – it can heat areas up to 150 sq ft and lasts over 10 hours if run on low.

2. Camco Olympian Gas Heater

Next up, the Olympian RV Wave is a gas heater that can heat your camper up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit in less than 15 minutes. It has a maximum output of 33000BTUs but an adjustable flame which allows it to be turned down for use as a 12000 BTU heater. The heater has a shutoff safety feature that automatically turns off the gas supply to your unit if it is knocked over or gets too hot.

It also uses a piezoelectric sparker (similar to those found in lighters) which means less trouble starting up and maintaining your heating appliance. It comes with adjustable heat control, is designed to be used inside your van or cabin, and can heat an area to 300 square feet.

Key Features

• 3,000 BTU heat output
• Safety shutoff valve
• Automatic piezoelectric sparker
• Catalytic heating
• Dimensions: 5 x 12 x 15 inches
• Weight: 6.9 pounds
• Recommended for 130 sq ft coverage

Possible Cons

• Can be hard to start up when cold
• Piezoelectric sparker may fail after a few months of use

3. Dimplex 4000 Watt Space Heater

The Dimplex DGWH4031G is a plugin electric heat source that can warm your camper up fast. Dimplex comes with a built-in fan that blows hot air into your van or cabin for immediate warmth upon entering the room.

It has a bracket that allows you to mount the heater onto the wall or ceiling, and it has a swivel head to direct the heat where you need it most. It comes with a built-in thermostat that enables simple control over your heating system and has a fan delay setting, which means it will turn off automatically after heating the room.

This is a great campervan heater when you own your own van and want to set it up with some more permanent homely touches, such as built-in heating.

Key Features

• 4000 Watt Forced Air
• Dimensions: 11 x 7.25 x 9 inches
• Weight: 12.1 pounds
• 6 foot long electric plugin cord – 240V
• The bracket that allows ceiling or wall-mounting, plus swivel and pivot
• Automatic overheat protection
• Thermostat control
• Good heat output
• Balances well on its stand

Possible Cons

• Some users complain of a rattling noise
• Not always safe to use in high damp conditions

4. Pro Breeze 1500W Mini Ceramic Fan Heater

If you’ve only got a small space to fill, this Pro Breeze 1500W Mini Ceramic Fan Heater is designed for those who need an extremely quiet heater that will not disturb their campervan sleeping space. It emits a maximum heat output of 1500 Watts high and 750 Watts low.

It has an adjustable thermostat and comes with a tip-over switch that cuts off power from the unit if it accidentally gets knocked over. The heater is made from high-quality ceramic elements for efficient heating but can cause damage if touched directly.

Key Features

• Ceramic 1500 Watts Forced Air
• High and ow power modes
• Dimensions: 7.09 x 5.83 x 9.65 inches
• Weighs 1.3 kilograms
• Electric plugin 120V
• Adjustable thermostat
• Built-in overheat protection
• Fan only mode
• Anti-tip-over switch
• It can be operated with one hand for convenience

Possible Cons

• The small amount of heat output means it will take a long time to warm up a cold area, which may not be suitable for larger campers

5. Dreo Radiator Heater

The Dreo Radiator Electric Heater is a sleek-looking 1500W electric heater designed to be used in your van or campervan.

Ideal for larger campervans, it comes with a digital thermostat for temperature control and remote control, which means you can change the temperature without getting up. It has a timer setting that lets you pre-set when you want it to start up, automatically switching off when necessary.

This heater provides four different modes of heating: fan only, eco, heat one, and heat 2, so you can choose the best setting for your requirements. It is a remote unit and is lightweight. It has an overheat protection system and comes with a tip-over switch to prevent damage when it falls or tips over accidentally.

The slim design on wheels makes it easy to stow away in your camper when not in use.

Key Features

• 1500W Electric
• Remote Control
• Overheat and Tip-Over Protection
• 24h Timer
• Electric plugin
• It is slimline and lightweight
• It comes with a digital thermostat
• Four modes of heating
• Can heat up to 300 sq ft

Possible Cons

• After use, the heater has been known to develop a rattling noise, so it may not be the best option for quiet sleepers.

6. LASKO Designer Oscillating Heater

With a stylish external design, the Lasko designer oscillating heater is a great choice for heating your campervan. It comes with a built-in thermostat that will automatically regulate itself to maintain the temperature of your van and has an adjustable dial on it so you can make the heat as intense as you like.

The unit also features wide-spread oscillation for a comfortable and even heat across the whole room. It has an automatic tip-over switch and safety-conscious grill design to ensure that it is safe to use inside your campervan, along with the added feature of a child lock. It comes with a two years warranty, too.

Key Features

• Oscillating heated air circulation
• Adjustable thermostat for maximum comfort levels
• Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 16 inches assembled
• Weight: 6.5 pounds
• Electric plugin
• Self-regulating element
• Comes with a timer
• Safety grill design
• Good range of power settings
• Quiet fan operation

Possible Cons

• Some purchasers claim the construction is a little flimsy

7. COSTWAY Oil Filled Radiator Heater

The Costway oil-filled radiator heater is a great solution for heating your van and is an easy way to add some warmth in the winter months. The unit is designed with an oil-filled radiator style, which gives you the benefit of even heat distribution. It will also automatically sense when it needs to turn back on once the room has reached the desired temperature.

It comes with a digital thermostat to adjust the heat settings as you see fit and features overload protection and a child lock. The heater is lightweight and easy to move around your van for maximum comfort; it won’t take up too much space when stowed.

Key Features

• 1500W oil-filled Radiator
• Overheat protection
• Child lock
• A digital thermostat
• Power cord plugin 120V
• Oil-filled radiator style design
• Dimensions: 10 x 13.5 x 25 inches
• Item weight: 19.3 pounds
• Good heat output
• Overload protection
• Quiet fan operation

Possible Cons

• No thermostat on power

8. Kismile Portable Electric Space Heater

Kismile Portable electric heater has a reputation as one of the quietest small fan heaters. It’s convenient to be carried anywhere, for outdoor use at the campsite, cabin, garage, or in your campervan! The electric heater has three heating modes: fan mode, low heat mode, and high heat mode. The fan can be used alone or with either of the two heating modes.

Another feature is the adjustable thermostat which you can adjust according to your preferred temperature level. It automatically shuts off once it reaches the set temperature levels for safety reasons. The overheat protection uses a microprocessor that detects any temperature rise and turns it off automatically.

Key Features

• Ceramic Heater Fan
• Adjustable thermostat
• Tip-Over protection
• Overheat Protection
• Dimensions: 7.3 x 6.5 x 9.65 inches
• Weight” 3.47 pounds
• Heating with 3 modes – fan, 950W and 1500W
• Electric Plugin 120V

Possible Cons

• Only portable outdoors with a long power lead

9. Campy Gear 2 in 1 Portable Propane Heater & Stove

The Camp Gear Portable Dual Fuel Propane & Butane Heater is an excellent choice if you are looking for a dual gas stove that can be used as a small camp heater. It has two burners and is designed with a large window that lets you keep an eye on your cooking. It has a large firebox made from high-quality stainless steel, which is highly durable and easy to clean.

You can cook or heat your van simultaneously, giving you more options when camping. The Campy Gear comes with three adjustable flames for different-sized pots and pans, which is helpful if you cook for more than two people.

Key Features

• Dual function camping gear
• 13,000 BTU
• 360 degree heating
• Enough warmth for 3-4 people
• Dimensions: 6.7 x 10.2 x 11.4″
• Weight 7.8 pounds
• Adjustable flame control

Possible Cons

• Requires LPG gas cylinder (not included)
• Must only be used in a space with proper ventilation, cannot be operated in a fully enclosed camper

Campy Gear stoves come in several different sizes depending on how much heat and cooking space you need. The larger models “Hunky” and “Wiry” (pictured) need LPG and can work in heat and cook and heat modes; the smaller models “Chubby” and “Little Guy” can work with propane cylinders and work with heat and cook only modes independently.

10. Brightown Mini Desk Heater

After a small but cost-effective campervan solution? The Mini Desk Heater from Brightown is an efficient, compact heater that you can use both indoors and outdoors. It has a low wattage of just 400W, which makes it energy efficient, and the oil-filled radiator is designed for fast heat-up and low running costs.

It is fast and quiet, making it ideal for use in a van, and it has a simple, easy design. It can be used as an emergency backup heater if the power goes out and also features a timer that you can set up to 2 hours or turn off entirely if you don’t want it running all night.

Key Features

• 400W Low Wattage = Less energy used
• Ceramic
• Tip-Over protection
• Corded Electric power source 110V
• Single on/off switch
• Oil-filled radiator
• Quiet and fast heating

Possible Cons

• No wall mounting option available

11. Asterion Oscillating Space Heater

This oscillating space heater is compact, lightweight, and easy to use. With a convenient carry handle, you can easily carry it from one space to another to keep your camper warm during the winter months. It has an adjustable thermostat and an adjustable fan speed to control the temperature.

It also has a low oxygen shutdown mechanism for your safety and overheating protection. The oscillating fan will efficiently keep your van warm and comfortable.

Key Features

• Tip-Over Cut-Off
• Overheat Protection
• Electric plugin
• 72 degree oscillating fan
• Remote control for added convenience
• Adjustable thermostat with low and high ehat modes

Possible Cons

• Some users report a plastic smell on inital use but this should go away

Key Features to Look For in a Campervan Heater

When looking for a campervan space heater, the features you seek may differ slightly from what you’ll look for in a home heater.

• How much space needs heating. There’s no point buying a campervan heater that’s much too powerful for the amount of space that needs, check the square footage you need to heat to decide on the size of heater you will need.

• Floor or Wall Mounted. While a small floor heater might work great with just one or two of you in a campervan, with kids, infants, and dogs wandering around, you may prefer a wall-mounted heating unit. Always look for tip cut-out features in a campervan heater.

• Oil Radiator vs Fan. Generally speaking, oil radiators are a little larger and heavier, but they are less noisy to operate, particularly if you’ll be running the heater all night.

• Altitude. It’s not just our bodies that can feel the effects of high altitudes; air contains less oxygen at high altitudes so the right mix of fuel (propane) and air are needed. If you’ll be heading to the mountains ensure you’ve bought a heater model that has adjustable air intake.

Interpreting Campervan Heater Jargon

• BTU stands for British Thermal Unit – it is basically a heat output measure. While Fahrenheit or Celsius might tell us how hot or cold, the air feels, a BTU tells you how much heat is needed to change the temperature.

• Watts (W) is the power used. Most small space heaters are around 1500W.

• A really basic rule of thumb, a space 150sq ft needs 1500 watts – larger campervans and RV’s you will want to look for higher wattage.

• Most plugin electric heaters operate on 110-115 volts (v); in country’s outside the US, you may find voltage different – careful if you travel internationally with electronic items such as heaters; step down converters may be required).

Safety Precautions Using a Campervan Heater

These campervan heaters have several safety precautions and procedures to follow. A few general guidelines before using any sort of campervan heating system:

1. Do not smoke anywhere near any heating appliance.

2. Ensure the heater is correctly installed and does not touch any flammable materials.

3. Follow the safety instructions for each type of heating appliance, including how to use it correctly, what area of your van is covered by the heat output, where the hot air comes out of the heater, what areas are ventilated by it, etc.

4. Check that you have an appropriate ventilation system installed to ensure the hot air is vented outside your van.

5. Ensure you have a fire extinguisher somewhere in your van and that it is accessible at all times.

6. Make sure children are not left unsupervised near any heating appliance.

The safety precautions for using a campervan heater are fairly simple. Still, they should always be followed to ensure you are kept safe when using a heater.

More Campervan & Road Trip Essentials

Before heading off on a long campervan road trip with your family, you may also be interested in:

• The most comfortable car seat cushions for long distance driving.

• These are the best toys for entertaining kids on road trips.

• Travelling with an infant? You might want to try one of these portable bottle warmers for meals on the move

• Keeping an eye on what’s happening behind you while driving is tough! If you like to keep an eye without turning your head, these are the best baby monitors for the car

• Looking for campervan gift ideas, or wondering what would be useful to ask for Christmas? We’ve got you covered with these awesome gift ideas for campervan owners

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