7 Best Electric Heaters for Van Life In 2025 – Ranked & Reviewed

Living the van life offers a unique freedom and lifestyle that’s coveted by many. However, staying warm in the winter months can be a challenge. Fortunately, campervan electric heaters can provide a comfortable and cozy environment in your mobile abode. In this article, we have researched and reviewed 7 of the best electric heaters for van life with campervan, RV or motorhomes in 2025 that guarantee to keep you warm and comfortable during your adventures.

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Best Electric Heaters for Van Life: Our Top 7 Picks

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What is the Best Electric Heater for Van Life in 2025?

When choosing the right electric heaters for your DIY van life, it’s crucial to consider factors such as size, portability, safety features, and energy efficiency. Here are some of the top-rated electric heaters for campervans in those cold climates during van life.

1. Overall Option: Dreo Space Heater Portable Electric

Key Specifications

• Brand: Dreo
• Dimensions: 7.32″D x 7.32″W x 11.02″H
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Item Weight: 3 Pounds
• Temperature Settings: 41°F – 95°F
• Heating Output: 1500 Watts
• Heating Coverage: Up to 200 sq. ft

From our experience, the Dreo Space Heater has been a solid pick for camper van life. We’ve used it in our van during chilly nights, and it’s honestly done a great job. It heats up fast, like in seconds, thanks to the PTC ceramic system. The size is perfect for a van – not too big, fits in corners easily, and doesn’t get in the way. It’s also super quiet. At 34dB, you barely notice it running, which is nice when you’re trying to sleep or just relax after a long day.

What I really like is the thermostat. You can adjust it exactly how you want, whether it’s just a bit of warmth or cranking it up on really cold nights. The safety features, like tip-over protection, give peace of mind too, especially in a small space like a camper van where things can get knocked over. If you’re looking for a 120V electric heater for van setups or just a good electric heater for camper van life, this one’s worth considering. It’s reliable, quiet, and makes van life a lot more comfortable.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Quiet operation at 34dB
• Safety features like tip-over protection
• Custoizable temperature settings

Cons

• Limited to indoor use
• Requires a corded power source

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2. Budget Option: Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater

Key Specifications

• Brand: Amazon Basics
• Dimensions: 5.87″D x 3.4″W x 6″H
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Item Weight: 1.43 Pounds
• Temperature Settings: Single setting (on/off)
• Heating Output: 500 Watts
• Heating Coverage: Best for small spaces (up to 50 sq. ft)

When it comes to heating small spaces, especially in van life, the Amazon Basics 500-Watt Ceramic Heater is a real gem. We used it in our campervan, and it’s honestly a great fit for tight spaces where efficiency matters. The compact size makes it easy to place anywhere – on a table, shelf, or even tucked into a corner. It heats up fast thanks to the ceramic coils, giving us instant warmth without taking up too much energy. For anyone managing limited power, this small low-wattage electric heater for van life is a practical choice.

One thing we noticed during testing is how well it handles safety. The tip-over protection is a reassuring feature when using it in a moving vehicle like a camper van. Plus, it’s lightweight, so moving it around is super easy. It’s not meant to warm up large areas, but for quick heat in a small van or personal space, it gets the job done. Just keep in mind that the exterior can get warm if it’s running for a while, so handle with care. In our opinion, it’s a solid pick for anyone looking for an electric heater for campervans that’s compact, efficient, and easy to use.

Pros

• Lightweight and compact design for small spaces
• Heats up quickly with efficient ceramic coils
• Built-in tip-over protection for safety
• Portable and easy to position

Cons

• Limited to heating small areas only
• Exterior can become warm with prolonged use

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3. Value for Money Option: Dreo Space Heater

Key Specifications

• Brand: Dreo
• Dimensions: 6″D x 7″W x 11″H
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Item Weight: 3.5 Pounds
• Temperature Settings: 41°F – 95°F
• Heating Output: 1500 Watts
• Heating Coverage: Up to 200 sq. ft

When it comes to heating our campervan, the Dreo Space Heater has been a fantastic option. We’ve used it during chilly nights, and its compact size fits perfectly in tight spots, like on a table or in a corner. The PTC ceramic heating kicks in almost instantly, delivering warm air within seconds. The oscillation feature is a big plus, spreading heat evenly throughout the space. For those of us looking for an electric heater for camper van life, this one handles the job efficiently without taking up much space.

What we appreciated the most during our testing was how quiet it is. At just 37.5 dB, it doesn’t disturb our sleep or conversations, which is exactly what you need in a camper setup. The safety features like tip-over and overheat protection gave us peace of mind, especially in such a small, enclosed space. Plus, the ECO mode helped us save energy while keeping the van warm. From our perspective, this is a reliable and practical choice for anyone in need of an electric space heater for van life or a small electric heater for camper vans.

Pros

• Compact and portable design
• Quick and even heating with oscillation
• Energy-saving ECO mode
• Tip-over and overheat protection

Cons

• Limited to indoor use
• Exterior may get warm with extended use

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4. Lowest Wattage Option: Lasko MyHeat Personal Mini Space Heater

Key Specifications

• Brand: Lasko
• Dimensions: 3.8″D x 4.3″W x 6.1″H
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Amperage: 2 Amps
• Item Weight: 1 Pound
• Temperature Settings: Single setting (on/off)
• Heating Output: 200 Watts
• Heating Coverage: Up to 50 sq. ft

When it comes to finding the right low-wattage electric heater for van life, the Lasko MyHeat Personal Mini Space Heater stands out as a great option. We tested it in our campervan, and its compact size made it easy to place under a desk or on a shelf without taking up much room. At just 200 watts, it’s perfect for heating your immediate personal space without overloading your power system, which is a big win for electric heaters for camper van life. It heats up quickly, delivering just the right amount of warmth to keep your feet or hands comfortable during those colder nights on the road.

We also appreciated how safe and easy it was to use. The cool-touch exterior and automatic overheat protection gave us peace of mind, even during extended use in a small van space. It’s not designed to heat a whole room, but for targeted warmth in a campervan setup, it gets the job done. In our opinion, it’s an excellent choice for anyone needing a low-wattage electric heater for van life or a small space heater for camper vans.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design
• Energy-efficient at just 200 watts
• Cool-touch exterior for added safety
• Automatic overheat protection

Cons

• Limited to very small spaces
• Single heat setting limits adjustability

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5. Energy-Efficient Option: Vornado MVH Space Heater

Key Specifications

• Brand: Vornado
• Dimensions: 9.2″D x 10.4″W x 10.6″H
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Item Weight: 3.76 Pounds
• Temperature Settings: 7 adjustable settings (Low, Medium, High)
• Heating Output: Up to 120°F
• Heating Coverage: Up to 256 sq. ft

When it comes to staying warm in a camper, the Vornado MVH Space Heater is an energy-efficient option that we really appreciated. We tested it in our camper van setup, and its vortex air circulation worked perfectly to evenly warm the space without creating overly hot spots. Unlike many electric heaters for van life, this one didn’t feel overwhelming, and the adjustable thermostat allowed us to fine-tune the heat to our liking. Its compact, standalone design made it easy to place on the floor, where it quietly did its job without getting in the way.

What stood out most for us was the safety and convenience it offers. The cool-touch exterior and tip-over protection made us feel secure using it, even in the small, sometimes uneven confines of a van. The multiple heat settings were also a nice touch, letting us manage energy usage while still staying comfortable. In our opinion, it’s the proper choice for anyone searching for an electric heater for camper van life or reliable space heaters for campers.

Pros

• Even heat distribution with vortex circulation
• Quiet operation for a peaceful environment
• Adjustable thermostat with multiple settings
• Cool-touch exterior and safety shut-off features

Cons

• Slightly larger footprint for a small van
• No oscillation feature for directional heating

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6. Ceramic Heater Option: Lasko CD08200 Small Portable

Key Specifications

• Brand: Lasko
• Dimensions: 7.65″D x 6.25″W x 6.25″H
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Item Weight: 3.35 Pounds
• Temperature Settings: 3 heat settings (High, Low, Timer)
• Heating Output: 1500 Watts
• Heating Coverage: Up to 225 sq. ft

When we tested the Lasko CD08200, it quickly proved to be a solid choice for those needing a ceramic electric heater for camper van life. Its compact size made it perfect for small van setups where space is always at a premium. Despite being designed primarily for bathroom use, it worked just as well in our camper van, heating the area evenly and fast. The ceramic heating element delivered warmth in seconds, which was exactly what we needed on chilly mornings. Plus, the ALCI safety plug and overheat protection provided added reassurance when using it in a confined van space.

What we really liked was how easy it was to use. There’s just one big button on top, making it simple to switch between high, low, or timer modes. The cool-touch exterior added an extra layer of safety, especially when moving it around. From our perspective, it’s an excellent option for anyone searching for space heaters for campers or a small electric heater for van life. It’s powerful, safe, and compact—just the right mix for van living.

Pros

• Compact and portable design
• Quick and efficient ceramic heating
• Built-in ALCI safety plug
• Cool-touch exterior for safety

Cons

• No adjustable thermostat for precise control
• Limited to small spaces only

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7. Fan-Forced Option: Honeywell HHF370B 360

Key Specifications

• Brand: Honeywell
• Dimensions: 8″D x 8″W x 11.5″H
• Voltage: 100-120 Volts
• Item Weight: 3 Pounds
• Temperature Settings: Adjustable thermostat with 2 heat settings
• Heating Output: 1800 Watts
• Heating Coverage: Small to mid-sized area

When we tested the Honeywell HHF370B, it quickly became clear why this fan-forced electric heater for van life is such a practical choice. Its 360-degree surround heat design provided even warmth throughout the camper, making it ideal for those colder nights. We placed it in the middle of our camper van, and its ability to distribute heat evenly was impressive. The adjustable thermostat and two heat settings allowed us to find just the right comfort level without wasting energy, which is key when managing power in a van setup.

From our perspective, the safety features made a big difference too. The 360° SafetyTip shuts it off if tipped, and the cool-touch handle made it easy to move around. The compact size didn’t take up much space, which is always a plus when living in a camper. In our opinion, this is an excellent option for anyone searching for electric heaters for camper vans or space heaters for campers. It combines portability, efficiency, and safety, making it a proper fit for van life needs.

Pros

• 360-degree surround heat distribution
• Compact and portable design
• Adjustable thermostat with two settings
• Safety features like tip-over protection

Cons

• Limited to small to mid-sized spaces
• Can feel warm to the touch during extended use

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Why Should You Consider Electric Heaters for Van Life?

When you’re living on the road, staying warm isn’t just about comfort—it’s about making your van life experience enjoyable and safe. Electric heaters are an excellent choice because they’re easy to use, safer than propane heaters, and don’t create harmful emissions inside your van. 

They’re especially handy if you frequently park at campsites with electrical hookups or have a reliable battery system.

Here’s why they’re worth considering:

• Convenience: Plug-and-play operation makes them straightforward to use.
• Safety: No open flames or carbon monoxide risks like propane heaters.
• Quiet Operation: Many models are nearly silent, perfect for peaceful nights.
• Energy Efficiency: Modern heaters are designed to heat small spaces efficiently without draining too much power.
• Compact Designs: Perfectly suited for small spaces like campervans and RVs.

How to Choose the Best Electric Heater for Van Life

Choosing the right electric heater can feel overwhelming with all the options available. To make it simpler, focus on features that match your needs and lifestyle.

Power Source Compatibility

The first thing to think about is how you’ll power your heater. If you often park at campsites with electrical hookups, a standard heater is fine. But if you’re off-grid, you’ll need something compatible with your battery system or solar power.

Wattage and Energy Efficiency

Small spaces like vans don’t need a heater with sky-high wattage. Look for a low-wattage option that won’t overload your power system but can still keep you cozy. Models with adjustable settings give you flexibility without wasting energy.

Size and Portability

Space is always at a premium in van life. Choose a compact heater that’s easy to store when not in use. Some heaters are even wall-mountable to save floor space.

Safety Features

Living in a small, enclosed space means safety is non-negotiable. Prioritize heaters with features like:

• Automatic shut-off if tipped over.
• Overheat protection.
• Cool-to-touch exteriors.

Noise Levels

If you’re a light sleeper, look for a quiet heater. Some fan-based heaters can be noisy, so check for models that are labeled as “silent” or “low-noise.”

Thermostat and Timer Options

Thermostat control ensures you don’t wake up sweating in the middle of the night, while a timer lets you set the heater to turn off automatically.

Safety Tips for Using Electric Heaters in Vans

Electric heaters can make van life comfortable, but safety should always come first. Here are some tips to use them responsibly:

• Don’t leave the heater unattended. Always turn it off when you leave the van.
• Place it on a stable, non-flammable surface. Avoid placing it on soft surfaces like bedding.
• Keep flammable items away. Curtains, blankets, and clothes should stay at least three feet from the heater.
• Monitor power usage. Don’t overload your circuits, especially if running other appliances.
• Use heaters with safety certifications. Look for labels like UL or ETL for added peace of mind.

How to Install an Electric Heater in a Campervan or RV

Installing an electric heater doesn’t require an engineering degree, but a little preparation goes a long way.

1. Choose the Right Location

Pick a spot where the heater can operate safely. It should have plenty of ventilation, be away from flammable materials, and not block walking paths.

2. Check Your Power Supply

Make sure your power setup can handle the heater’s wattage. If you’re using a solar system, ensure your inverter is compatible.

3. Mount the Heater (If Applicable)

Some heaters are designed to be mounted on walls or under cabinets. Use brackets or screws provided in the package and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Plug It In Safely

Use a dedicated outlet or a surge protector. Avoid using extension cords unless absolutely necessary, and only use heavy-duty ones rated for the heater’s wattage.

5. Test the Heater

Before relying on it during cold nights, run the heater for a short period and monitor its performance and safety features.

How Much Power Does an Electric Heater Need to Recharge for a Campervan or RV?

Electric heaters for campervans typically require 500 to 1,500 watts of power, depending on their size and heat output. Low-wattage models around 200–500 watts are ideal for conserving energy, while larger heaters at 1,500 watts provide more warmth but need a reliable power source like shore power or a high-capacity battery bank.

For off-grid setups, it’s important to calculate your power usage. A 1,500-watt heater running for one hour uses 1.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh), which can quickly drain smaller battery systems. Pairing heaters with solar panels and inverters rated for the wattage can make them more sustainable for off-grid living.

If you’re relying on batteries, lithium-ion options are recommended because they handle higher power demands and recharge faster than lead-acid batteries. 

For example, a 200Ah lithium battery can power a 500-watt heater for about 4 hours before needing a recharge. Always balance heating needs with other power-consuming devices in your campervan to avoid running out of energy.

Alternative Heating Options for Van Life

Electric heaters are great, but they aren’t the only option. Here are some alternatives worth considering:

• Diesel Heaters: Highly efficient and ideal for off-grid setups.
• Propane Heaters: Good for those who don’t rely on electrical hookups but require proper ventilation.
• 12V Heating Pads or Blankets: Energy-efficient options for localized heating.
• Wood-Burning Stoves: A cozy choice for those with larger vans, though installation and ventilation can be tricky.
• Insulation: Technically not a heater, but good insulation reduces the need for any heater at all.

Conclusion

Staying warm on the road is easy with the best electric heaters for van life. Whether you’re after quick heat, energy efficiency, or portability, there’s an option for every campervan setup.

The Dreo Space Heater stands out for its fast heating, quiet operation, and safety features—perfect for van living. If you’re on a budget, the Amazon Basics Ceramic Heater is compact, affordable, and great for small spaces. 

For those needing low power consumption, the Lasko MyHeat Mini Heater delivers targeted warmth without overloading your system.

Van life is all about freedom and adventure—but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. With the right electric heater for campervans, you can enjoy cozy nights, no matter how cold it gets outside. Safe travels and stay warm out there!

FAQs

Can I use an electric heater in a campervan?

Yes, you can safely use an electric heater in a campervan as long as your power system can handle the wattage. Choose models with built-in safety features like tip-over protection and overheat shut-off for added security.

What type of electric heater is the most efficient?

Ceramic and infrared models are often rated as the best electric heaters for van life due to their energy efficiency and ability to quickly warm up small spaces like campervans. Ceramic heaters warm the air quickly, while infrared heaters provide direct heat to objects and people without wasting energy.

How many watts to heat a van?

For most campervans, a 500–1,500-watt heater is sufficient. Smaller vans or insulated spaces may only need 500–750 watts, while larger vans or poorly insulated setups may require 1,000–1,500 watts.

Can an electric heater be 100% efficient?

Yes, electric heaters are considered 100% efficient because they convert all the electricity they consume into heat. However, heat loss through windows, doors, or poor insulation can reduce perceived efficiency.

Can electric heaters run on solar power?

Yes, but it depends on your solar setup. You’ll need a high-capacity battery bank and a properly sized inverter to handle the heater’s wattage. Low-wattage heaters are better suited for solar-powered systems.

How do I prevent condensation when using a heater?

Ventilation is key. Crack a window slightly or use roof vents to allow moisture to escape. A small dehumidifier can also help keep condensation under control.

Are electric heaters better than propane for vans?

Electric heaters are generally safer and easier to operate since they don’t produce carbon monoxide or require ventilation. However, propane heaters are better for off-grid living if you don’t have a reliable power source.

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