Staying warm on a chilly camping trip is a top priority. While the phrase “non-electric heater” often brings to mind propane or catalytic models, for campers with access to shore power or a generator, a portable electric space heater is a fantastic, safe, and convenient solution. This roundup focuses on the best portable electric heaters perfect for camper use, each selected for its heating power, safety features, and suitability for small spaces. We’ve done the testing so you can find the perfect warmth for your adventure.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Non Electric Heater For Camper Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. DREO 1500W Portable PTC Ceramic Space Heater with Remote, Thermostat, 70° Oscillation, 12H Timer, and 5 Modes
- 2.2 2. Lasko 1500W Portable Ceramic Space Heater with Tip-Over Safety, Overheat Protection, Thermostat, and 2 Speeds
- 2.3 3. Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater, Original, 1500-Watt, Cherry
- 2.4 4. Heat Storm HS
- 2.5 5. Dreo Portable 1500W PTC Ceramic Space Heater with Thermostat, Remote, Digital Display, 12H Timer, and 5 Modes
- 2.6 6. Dreo 1500W Portable Space Heater with Thermostat, 70° Oscillation, Safety Features, 5 Modes, Remote, and 12H Timer
- 2.7 7. Dreo Quiet 1500W Portable PTC Ceramic Space Heater with Remote, 70° Oscillation, and 12H Timer
- 2.8 8. Caframo True North Heater: Low Profile, Quiet, and Powerful for Home and Office
- 2.9 9. Amazon Basics 1500W Portable Ceramic Space Heater with Overheat and Tip-Over Protection and Thermostat
- 2.10 10. Comfort Zone 1500W Fan-Forced Portable Heater with Adjustable Thermostat, Overheat Sensor, and Tip-Over Switch
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Non Electric Heater For Camper
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
- 4.1 Q: Can I use these electric heaters in a camper without electricity?
- 4.2 Q: Are ceramic heaters safe for campers?
- 4.3 Q: How much power do these 1500W heaters use?
- 4.4 Q: What’s the advantage of an infrared heater versus a ceramic heater?
- 4.5 Q: Is it okay to leave a space heater on overnight in my camper?
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Non Electric Heater For Camper Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DREO 1500W Portable PTC Ceramic Space Heater with Remote, Thermostat, 70° Oscillation, 12H Timer, and 5 Modes
The DREO 1500W heater is a top-tier choice for campers, featuring advanced Hyperamics technology for fast heating. With a remote, thermostat, and 70° oscillation, it ensures even warmth. Its ECO mode helps save energy, making it efficient for extended use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Hyperamics Technology for rapid, efficient heating
- ✓ Shield360° safety system with tip-over and overheat protection
- ✓ ECO mode automatically adjusts heat to save energy
- ✓ 70° oscillation and 12-hour timer for wide coverage and convenience
- ✓ Remote control for easy operation from across the camper
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this heater because it balances powerful performance with top-notch safety features. The remote and timer make it incredibly user-friendly for camper life, and the energy-saving mode is perfect for mindful power usage.
Best For
Campers who want a feature-rich, high-performance heater with excellent safety and the convenience of remote control.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally fast heating with advanced PTC technology
- Comprehensive safety features including tip-over protection
- Very convenient remote control and timer settings
- Energy-efficient ECO mode reduces power consumption
Cons:
- Slightly larger footprint than some ultra-compact models
- The oscillation feature might be unnecessary for very small, confined camper spaces
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I am in love with this. It is so easy to use and easy to operate. It does comes with a small little remote which is so important and helpful. You can adjust temperature, it has 3 main mode, HEAT (3 modes), Fan only, and ECO mode which saves energy. It is fast, warm, and very safe as well. It even ha”
Customer Review: “I bought mine last year. So far this heater has worked pretty well and it produces a decent amount of heat I have one that cranks out more heat though. It does have the remote where you can adjust the temperature where I want to hit that temperature it will turn off. Then it also has three different”
2. Lasko 1500W Portable Ceramic Space Heater with Tip-Over Safety, Overheat Protection, Thermostat, and 2 Speeds
The Lasko 1500W is a reliable, no-nonsense heater perfect for campers. It offers two heat settings and a fan-only mode for customizable comfort. Its compact size and essential safety features make it a trustworthy choice.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Two heat settings: High (1500W) for quick warmth and Low (900W) for steady heat
- ✓ Fan-only mode for air circulation without heat
- ✓ Adjustable thermostat for precise temperature control
- ✓ Compact, portable design fits on tabletops or the floor
- ✓ Tip-over safety and overheat protection for peace of mind
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this heater for its simplicity and proven reliability. It’s easy to use, has all the essential safety features, and is compact enough to tuck away in any camper corner. It’s a workhorse.
Best For
Campers who prefer a straightforward, effective heater without extra bells and whistles, and who value a trusted brand.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Simple, intuitive operation with clear settings
- Very compact and lightweight for easy portability
- Includes essential safety features for secure camper use
- Adjustable thermostat helps maintain a consistent temperature
Cons:
- Lacks advanced features like a remote control or digital timer
- The fan can be a bit noisy on the high setting compared to newer models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought one of these heaters to use downstairs in my computer room. That room has no heat at all in it. I spend a lot of time on my computer and in the winter I just about freeze to death down there. I did research here on Amazon and read many reviews before deciding on this one. I really liked the”
Customer Review: “I started using this model around 2012, the power (event on low setting, my preference) also life span I owned 5 and currently use 4 in the camper, in my outdoor kitty condo, and my outside home water heater compartment. They are so compact and the price is sooooo reasonable. Every once in a while a”
3. Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater, Original, 1500-Watt, Cherry
The Dr Infrared Heater is a classic, budget-friendly option that uses a dual heating system for deep, comfortable warmth. It’s powerful enough for larger camper spaces and operates quietly, which is a huge plus for sleeping areas.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual Heating System: Infrared quartz tube plus PTC for efficient warmth
- ✓ Super quiet operation (around 39 dB) for undisturbed sleep
- ✓ 12-hour automatic shut-off timer and remote control
- ✓ Tip-over and overheat protection for safety
- ✓ Energy-saving mode with high and low heat settings
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it because it offers exceptional heating power and quiet operation at a very attractive price point. It’s a proven design that effectively heats spaces without being obtrusive.
Best For
Budget-conscious campers who need a powerful, quiet heater capable of warming up a larger camper or small RV.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Provides deep, penetrating infrared heat that feels very comfortable
- Remarkably quiet fan, ideal for nighttime use
- Includes a remote control and timer for convenience
- Often available at a very competitive price
Cons:
- The boxy design is less compact than some ceramic models
- The thermostat can make an audible click when cycling on/off
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is one of the best infered box heaters I’ve ever used . Can feel the heat blowing out at an acceptable distance and fan is pretty powerful. Temperature sensor works great and puts out great amount of heat for a medium to large room . the thermostat click is little louder than others I’ve used b”
Customer Review: “I heartily recommend this heater. the Dr Heater 1500 watt heater. It has great heat and fan output and keeps my living area warm. It is easy to adjust the temperature up or down as needed. The automatic shut off on the heater is great and the fan keeps blowing the stored heat out at a lesser heat an”
4. Heat Storm HS
The Heat Storm HS is a unique wall-mounted infrared heater that saves precious floor space in your camper. With Wi-Fi control, you can adjust the temperature from your phone, adding a layer of modern smart convenience.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Space-saving wall mount design frees up floor area
- ✓ Wi-Fi enabled for control via smartphone app
- ✓ Infrared heating provides quiet, efficient warmth
- ✓ Includes touch screen, digital thermostat, and remote
- ✓ Tip-over safety shut-off feature
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this heater for campers who are short on floor space or want the tech-savvy ability to pre-warm their camper before they even step inside. It’s a great permanent or semi-permanent solution.
Best For
Campers and van-lifers who want to mount a heater out of the way and appreciate smart home integration for remote control.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent space-saving design ideal for small campers
- Wi-Fi app control is incredibly convenient for remote management
- Infrared heat is silent and feels gentle and direct
- Easy to mount with basic tools
Cons:
- Requires installation; not a plug-and-play portable unit
- Heating range may be more directional than oscillating models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Love this beater. It’s super light and warms up to 600 sf in no time. I have moved it from a studio into yoga space and the infrared kicks out quiet and fast heat. It is super easy to mount with just three screws. I have recommended it to two ppl bc of the remote, app feature and its portability. W”
Customer Review: “We used it in our destination trailer roughly 500 sq ft heated it better and more quiet than the propane heater!! it saved us a huge amount of $ not using our propane heat amd the pain of takingthe tanks to ne filled!! Love the thermostat and wifi. We now have it inside a 12×26 shed that we did i”
5. Dreo Portable 1500W PTC Ceramic Space Heater with Thermostat, Remote, Digital Display, 12H Timer, and 5 Modes
This Dreo model is another powerhouse, featuring a sleek digital display and an enhanced thermostat for precise temperature control. Its innovative safety sensor and compact “heat funnel” design make it both safe and effective.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Hyperamics 1500W PTC system with a focused heat funnel design
- ✓ Enhanced NTC chipset for smart, precise thermostat control
- ✓ Clear digital display shows temperature and settings at a glance
- ✓ Improved tilt-detection sensor for advanced safety
- ✓ Remote control, 12-hour timer, and 5 operating modes
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its smart heating capabilities and superior build quality. The digital interface is user-friendly, and the advanced safety features provide extra reassurance in a moving vehicle.
Best For
Tech-savvy campers who appreciate a modern digital interface and want the most accurate temperature management possible.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very precise temperature control with an enhanced thermostat
- Easy-to-read digital display for monitoring settings
- Compact design with a focused heat output
- Robust safety features including improved tip-over detection
Cons:
- The digital display emits a soft light that some might find bright in a dark camper
- Similar in performance to other Dreo models, so choose based on preferred features
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “As I write this, the heater is right next to me blowing blissful warmth my way. I love this heater because 1) it’s 7 degrees outside and 75 inside 2) it’s whisper quiet. It has three modes: 3 constant heat levels, maintaining a custom temperature, and just a… fan that I sometimes use to dry my hai”
Customer Review: “Love this heater. Use it in our camper and it easily heats it up and keeps it warm. We purchased it in 2024 and this is our second winter with it. Super impressed by how well it heats. Once our camper gets warm, we typically set it down to 70° for the night and wake up nice and warm. Our camper i”
6. Dreo 1500W Portable Space Heater with Thermostat, 70° Oscillation, Safety Features, 5 Modes, Remote, and 12H Timer
This Dreo heater emphasizes quiet operation and safety. It heats up quickly with 1500W power but does so at a library-like 34dB, making it perfect for night use. The 70° oscillation ensures the warmth reaches every corner.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Exceptionally quiet operation (34dB) thanks to oblique airflow technology
- ✓ Fast 1500W PTC ceramic heating
- ✓ 70° wide-angle oscillation for even heat distribution
- ✓ ETL-certified with V0 flame-retardant materials and multiple safeties
- ✓ Remote control, 12H timer, and 5 versatile modes
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for campers who are light sleepers or value a peaceful environment. It delivers powerful heat without the noisy fan drone common in many heaters, all while maintaining excellent safety standards.
Best For
Campers who prioritize a quiet heating solution for bedrooms or small living areas where noise is a concern.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One of the quietest space heaters available
- Effective wide-angle oscillation spreads heat efficiently
- High safety certification and use of flame-retardant materials
- Multiple modes offer great flexibility for different needs
Cons:
- Due to its focus on quiet operation, maximum airflow might be slightly less than some models
- Like other feature-rich heaters, it has a higher number of settings to learn
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I purchased this heater to use in a small office that measures approximately 15′ x 20′. It is capable of heating the whole room with the door closed, but I mainly keep is within 3 feet of my desk to warm myself directly because our building has an A/C system that runs 24/7 and is ALWAYS too damned “
Customer Review: “Working great so far! I do have a small bedroom but it works great for warm up my entire room! I love the 3 strengths, as well as the various modes setting. I love the eco setting for overnight, so I can keep my room at a good temperature without running it the entire time. Additionally it’s very qu”
7. Dreo Quiet 1500W Portable PTC Ceramic Space Heater with Remote, 70° Oscillation, and 12H Timer
The Dreo Quiet lives up to its name, using a brushless DC motor and winglet fan design for whisper-quiet operation. It’s packed with family-friendly safety features like a child-lock, making it a great all-around choice.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Brushless DC motor and winglet fan design for ultra-quiet heating
- ✓ Child-lock feature prevents accidental setting changes
- ✓ Comprehensive safety: tip-over, overheat protection, V0 flame retardant
- ✓ 70° oscillation for wide area coverage
- ✓ Remote control and 12-hour timer included
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this model for its exceptional focus on quiet and safe operation. The child-lock is a thoughtful addition for campers with kids or pets, and the quiet motor won’t interfere with conversation or sleep.
Best For
Families camping with children or anyone who wants a discreet, quiet heater with added safety precautions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely quiet, thanks to advanced motor and fan technology
- Child-lock provides an extra layer of safety for family use
- Powerful 1500W heating with effective oscillation
- Well-built with high safety standards
Cons:
- May have fewer mode options than other Dreo models (focus on core features)
- Premium quiet technology can come at a slightly higher cost
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “WOW. I’m impressed how much heat this puts off. You can adjust the thermostat to your liking. It creates a great way to heat a small to medium sized room. I even used it in my garage and it worked great. It’s durable and there’s no smell with it being electric. Seems to be made of quality parts and “
Customer Review: “Our furnace went out and to hold us over we use this heater in our bedroom room (now resolved), we use this heater in our bedroom and keep it right on the dresser. It’s smaller, compact, and doesn’t take up much space at all. It heats the room really well, especially for its size, and runs quietly w”
8. Caframo True North Heater: Low Profile, Quiet, and Powerful for Home and Office
The Caframo True North is a rugged, low-profile heater built for durability. Its anti-freeze setting is a standout feature for campers, automatically turning on at 38°F to prevent pipes from freezing during winter storage.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Low-profile, stable design with a mostly steel construction
- ✓ Anti-freeze setting automatically activates at 38°F (3°C)
- ✓ Adjustable thermostat and three heat/two fan settings
- ✓ Known for quiet and reliable operation
- ✓ Built with durability in mind, often used in marine and RV settings
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its exceptional build quality and specialized anti-freeze feature. It’s a heater you can trust for long-term use in harsh conditions, making it perfect for four-season campers.
Best For
Campers who leave their rig parked in cold climates and need a heater for freeze protection, or anyone who values a simple, durable, and reliable unit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable construction with a long lifespan
- Anti-freeze setting is invaluable for winter camper storage
- Quiet operation and stable, low-profile design
- Simple, effective controls with an adjustable thermostat
Cons:
- Lacks modern features like a remote control or digital timer
- Heavier and less portable than plastic-bodied heaters
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This heater is made in Canada and has a 5 year warranty. The case is mostly steel, with plastic end plates. The controls operate smoothly and the thermostat turns on and off quietly. There are two heated fan speeds, plus one speed without heat to move air. It sits low and with stability. It doesn’t “
Customer Review: “I have four of these. Some came from West Marine, some came from Amazon. They are finished in different colors but otherwise identical as far as I can tell.We use them to help heat the camper when it gets really cold out. We use on to add additional heat to an office room that the furnace doesn'”
9. Amazon Basics 1500W Portable Ceramic Space Heater with Overheat and Tip-Over Protection and Thermostat
The Amazon Basics heater is the definition of value and simplicity. It provides reliable ceramic heating with essential safety features in a very compact and lightweight package, all at a budget-friendly price.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact and lightweight (only 3 lbs) for ultimate portability
- ✓ Three settings: High (1500W), Low (900W), and Fan Only
- ✓ Built-in tip-over protection and overheat protection
- ✓ Adjustable thermostat for basic temperature control
- ✓ Power indicator light for clear on/off status
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it as a fantastic no-frills, budget-friendly starter heater for camper use. It gets the job done safely and effectively without any complexity.
Best For
First-time camper owners or those on a tight budget who need a basic, reliable heater for occasional use in small spaces.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely affordable and offers great value
- Very compact and light, easy to store and move
- Includes necessary safety features for peace of mind
- Simple plug-and-play operation
Cons:
- Lacks a remote, timer, or energy-saving modes
- The safety tip-over plunger on the bottom can be sensitive on uneven surfaces
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This unit is nice and compact, throws plenty of heat, and is very reasonably priced.The only things I dont like is that the light is always on when plugged in, and it has a little plunger on the bottom, which I know is for safety so the unit shuts off if tipped over, but its still annoying that isl”
Customer Review: “The Amazon Basics 1500W ceramic heater is a solid pick for heating small rooms, offices, or bedrooms. It heats quickly and the thermostat keeps things from getting uncomfortably hot. The overheat and tip over protection add peace of mind, especially if you run it for long periods. It isn’t powerful “
10. Comfort Zone 1500W Fan-Forced Portable Heater with Adjustable Thermostat, Overheat Sensor, and Tip-Over Switch
The Comfort Zone heater is a straightforward, energy-efficient option with an improved Energy Save mode. It provides reliable fan-forced heat with an adjustable thermostat and all the essential safety switches.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Energy Save mode helps reduce electricity consumption
- ✓ Adjustable thermostat for customized comfort
- ✓ Overheat sensor and tip-over switch for safety
- ✓ Fan-forced heating provides quick warmth
- ✓ Simple, functional design from a reputable brand
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for campers who want a basic, energy-conscious heater from a brand known for reliability. It’s a solid performer that focuses on efficient heating without unnecessary extras.
Best For
Campers looking for a dependable, mid-range heater that emphasizes energy savings and has a proven track record of durability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Energy Save mode is effective for reducing power use
- Simple controls with an adjustable thermostat
- Reliable safety features including a tip-over switch
- Good value for the price and performance offered
Cons:
- Design and features are quite basic compared to newer models
- Can be slightly noisier than ceramic tower heaters
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this exact same model about 6 years ago & it worked without a glitch for almost 4 years. I liked it so much, that when it finally gave up the ghost in 2023, I bought the very same model again.Pros:** Safety features include an instantaneous, automatic shut off of the heater if it’s not on a”
Customer Review: “Works great. Safety feature is that it turns off if it’s not on a firm flat surface.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Non Electric Heater For Camper
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the right heater for your camper is about more than just warmth. Safety is the non-negotiable top priority; always look for tip-over protection and overheat protection. Next, consider heating capacity (1500W is standard for small spaces), portability (size and weight), and noise level (quieter is better for sleeping). Also, think about power source compatibility—ensure your camper’s electrical system can handle the heater’s wattage.
Budget Planning
Heaters for campers range from budget basics under $40 to feature-packed models over $100. Your budget should align with your needs. If you camp occasionally in mild weather, a simple ceramic heater may suffice. For frequent or cold-weather camping, investing in a model with a thermostat, timer, and energy-saving modes can improve comfort and efficiency, offering better long-term value.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single “best” heater for every camper. Match the heater to your specific trips. For weekend summer trips, a compact Amazon Basics model might be perfect. For winter expeditions, a robust heater like the Caframo with freeze protection or a quiet, powerful Dreo could be ideal. Always read recent customer reviews to gauge real-world performance and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use these electric heaters in a camper without electricity?
A: No, all the heaters in this roundup require a standard 120V AC power outlet. They are designed for use when your camper is plugged into shore power, a generator, or a sufficiently large inverter system. For truly off-grid heating, you would need to look at propane or diesel heaters.
Q: Are ceramic heaters safe for campers?
A>Yes, modern ceramic heaters with proper safety features are very safe for camper use. The key is to choose a model with tip-over protection (shuts off if knocked over) and overheat protection (shuts off if internal components get too hot). Always keep the heater clear of curtains, bedding, and other flammable materials.
Q: How much power do these 1500W heaters use?
A: A 1500W heater draws 12.5 amps (at 120V). This is a significant load. You must ensure your camper’s electrical circuit and power source (like a generator or campsite pedestal) can handle this draw, especially if running other appliances simultaneously to avoid tripping a breaker.
Q: What’s the advantage of an infrared heater versus a ceramic heater?
A: Infrared heaters (like the Dr. Infrared model) heat objects and people directly with radiant heat, which can feel more instantaneous and be quieter. Ceramic heaters (like most others here) heat the air directly, which is then circulated by a fan. Ceramic types tend to heat a space more evenly, while infrared can feel more focused and comfortable in a drafty area.
Q: Is it okay to leave a space heater on overnight in my camper?
A>It is not generally recommended to leave any heater unattended or while sleeping unless it has excellent safety certifications and features (like the ETL-listed models here). If you do, use the timer function to limit runtime, ensure nothing is near the heater, and consider a model with a precise thermostat and child-lock for added safety. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Finding the perfect heater can transform a chilly camper into a cozy retreat. We’ve covered a range of options from feature-rich smart heaters to simple, dependable units. Remember, the best choice depends on your specific camping style, space, and power setup. Consider the safety features first, match the heater to your needs, and you’ll be ready for comfort on the road. Here’s to warm and wonderful adventures ahead!
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