Finding the right warmth for your camper without relying on shore power or draining your batteries is a game-changer. A top-quality non-electric heater can extend your camping season into the crisp fall and winter months, providing cozy, reliable heat. This roundup reviews the best non-electric heaters for campers, focusing on safety, efficiency, portability, and real-world performance to help you stay warm on your adventures.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Non Electric Heater For Camper Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. Heat Storm Infrared Heater with WiFi Control and Wall Mounting for Efficient Heating
- 2.2 2. Dr Infrared Heater Portable 1500-Watt Space Heater in Cherry Color for Indoor Use
- 2.3 3. 1500W Space Heater with LED Display 24-Hour Timer ECO Mode and 60-Degree Oscillation
- 2.4 4. Comfort Zone 1500W Portable Electric Space Heater with Fan Adjustable Thermostat and Safety Features
- 2.5 5. Dreo Portable Electric Space Heater with Thermostat Remote Digital Display and 12-Hour Timer
- 2.6 6. DREO 1500W PTC Ceramic Space Heater with Remote Thermostat 70-Degree Oscillation and 5 Modes
- 2.7 7. Lasko 1500W Ceramic Tower Space Heater with Remote Thermostat Timer and Widespread Oscillation
- 2.8 8. Dreo 1500W Space Heater with 60-Degree Adjustable Tilt Remote Thermostat and 3 Modes
- 2.9 9. Caframo True North Heater Low Profile Quiet and Powerful for Home and Office Use
- 2.10 10. Dreo Whole Room Heater with 3D Oscillation Long-Range Circulator and Multiple Heat Fan Settings
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Non Electric Heater For Camper
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Non Electric Heater For Camper Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Heat Storm Infrared Heater with WiFi Control and Wall Mounting for Efficient Heating
This Heat Storm model is a top contender for the best non-electric heater for a camper due to its smart features and space-saving design. Its infrared heat provides fast, quiet warmth that feels more natural than a blower fan. The ability to mount it on the wall is a huge plus in a cramped camper, freeing up precious floor space.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Wi-Fi and app control for remote temperature management.
✓ Space-saving wall mount design included.
✓ Digital thermostat and included remote control.
✓ Tip-over safety shut-off and overheat protection.
✓ Quiet infrared heating technology.
Why We Recommend It
We chose this as our Best Choice because it perfectly balances smart convenience with practical camper needs. The wall-mount option is a game-changer for small spaces, and the Wi-Fi control lets you pre-warm your camper before you even step inside. It’s a modern solution for comfortable four-season camping.
Best For
Campers and RV owners who want smart, app-controlled heating and need to maximize their limited floor space with a secure wall-mounted unit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent space-saving wall-mount design.
- Advanced Wi-Fi and app control is very convenient.
- Provides quiet, comfortable infrared heat.
- Comes with both a remote and a digital thermostat.
Cons:
- Requires a stable Wi-Fi connection for full app functionality.
- Installation is more involved than a plug-and-play unit.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Love this heater. It’s super light and warms up to 600 sf in no time… I have recommended it to two ppl bc of the remote, app feature and its portability.”
Customer Review: “We used it in our destination trailer… it saved us a huge amount of $ not using our propane heat and the pain of taking the tanks to be filled!! Love the thermostat and wifi.”
2. Dr Infrared Heater Portable 1500-Watt Space Heater in Cherry Color for Indoor Use
The Dr Infrared Heater is a legend for a reason, making it our Editor’s Choice. It combines dual heating systems for powerful, consistent warmth that’s perfect for larger campers or particularly chilly nights. Its super-quiet operation means it won’t disturb your sleep, a key feature for any camper heater.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Dual heating system: infrared quartz tube + PTC.
✓ Very quiet operation (around 39 dB).
✓ Auto energy saving mode with high and low settings.
✓ 12-hour automatic shut-off timer and remote control.
✓ Comprehensive tip-over and overheat protection.
Why We Recommend It
We love its proven reliability and powerful heating capability. The dual-system design ensures the air feels warm quickly and stays that way efficiently. For campers who prioritize a heater that can truly handle a large room and do it quietly, this is a fantastic, battle-tested option.
Best For
Campers with larger rigs or those who camp in very cold climates and need a powerful, quiet, and dependable primary heat source.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely powerful and effective for large spaces.
- Remarkably quiet fan operation.
- Dual heating technology provides efficient, comfortable warmth.
- Includes a helpful 12-hour auto shut-off timer.
Cons:
- The thermostat can make an audible “click” when cycling.
- Heavier and bulkier than some other portable models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is one of the best infrared heaters I’ve ever used. Can feel the heat blowing out at an acceptable distance and fan is pretty powerful… puts out great amount of heat for a medium to large room.”
Customer Review: “I heartily recommend this heater… It has great heat and fan output and keeps my living area warm. The automatic shut off on the heater is great and the fan keeps blowing the stored heat out.”
3. 1500W Space Heater with LED Display 24-Hour Timer ECO Mode and 60-Degree Oscillation
This heater delivers impressive features at a very friendly price, earning our Best Budget pick. It heats up fast, oscillates to spread warmth, and includes an energy-saving ECO mode. For campers who want effective heating without a big investment, this model offers outstanding value.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Fast 2-second PTC ceramic heating.
✓ 60-degree oscillation for even heat distribution.
✓ Energy-saving Adaptive ECO mode.
✓ 24-hour programmable timer and remote control.
✓ ETL-certified with overheat and tip-over protection.
Why We Recommend It
It proves you don’t need to spend a lot to get a capable, safe heater for your camper. The oscillation and ECO mode are features often found on more expensive models. It’s a simple, reliable plug-and-play option that gets the job done well.
Best For
Budget-conscious campers and first-time RV owners who need an affordable, feature-packed heater that performs reliably.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for the money.
- Helpful oscillation spreads heat in a small space.
- ECO mode helps manage power usage efficiently.
- Comes with a convenient remote control.
Cons:
- Build quality may feel lighter than premium models.
- The LED display might be bright for sleeping in a dark camper.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Love it doesn’t make my whole power go off. Love that it turns. Heats up really fast. Really Silent. Worth the price remote work the best when you don’t Wana get up.”
Customer Review: “This heater literally heats up my whole studio apartment. Its definitely worth the money! And I love the fact that it comes with a remote for those lazy days… Noise level is decent not loud at all.”
4. Comfort Zone 1500W Portable Electric Space Heater with Fan Adjustable Thermostat and Safety Features
The Comfort Zone heater is a straightforward, no-fuss workhorse. It focuses on the essentials: adjustable heat, a simple thermostat dial, and core safety features. Its compact size makes it easy to tuck into a corner of your camper.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Simple adjustable thermostat dial.
✓ Two heat settings plus a fan-only mode.
✓ Compact and highly portable design.
✓ ETL-listed with overheat and tip-over protection.
✓ Basic, user-friendly operation.
Why We Recommend It
If you dislike complicated digital controls and just want a heater that works, this is it. The manual thermostat is intuitive, and its simplicity means there’s less to go wrong. It’s a trustworthy backup or primary heater for no-nonsense campers.
Best For
Campers who prefer analog, knob-controlled appliances and want a simple, reliable, and compact heating solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely simple and easy to use.
- Very compact and lightweight.
- Reliable safety features (ETL listed).
- Fan-only mode adds summer ventilation utility.
Cons:
- Lacks modern features like a timer or remote.
- The thermostat is less precise than digital models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is an excellent heater! It warmed up my living room in minutes! I love it!”
Customer Review: “I’m using it in a small bedroom 8X14. It heats room nice n comfy. Good buy”
5. Dreo Portable Electric Space Heater with Thermostat Remote Digital Display and 12-Hour Timer
This Dreo heater is a compact powerhouse designed with smart temperature control. Its precise digital thermostat and 12-hour timer allow for perfect climate management in your camper, helping you sleep comfortably through the night.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Enhanced NTC chipset for precise temperature control.
✓ Compact “heat funnel” design for focused warmth.
✓ 12-hour timer for scheduled operation.
✓ Digital display and remote control.
✓ Advanced tilt-detection safety sensor.
Why We Recommend It
We’re impressed by its focus on accurate temperature maintenance. For campers who wake up too hot or too cold, this heater’s smart thermostat can make a big difference. It’s a great blend of modern tech, safety, and portable design.
Best For
Campers who value precise temperature control for overnight comfort and want a compact, tech-forward heater with a good timer function.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent, precise temperature maintenance.
- Compact and efficient design.
- Useful 12-hour timer for bedtime use.
- Includes an advanced safety tilt sensor.
Cons:
- The compact size means a more focused heat stream, not wide oscillation.
- May have a slightly higher price point than basic models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “As I write this, the heater is right next to me blowing blissful warmth my way… it’s whisper quiet. It has three modes…”
Customer Review: “Love this heater. Use it in our camper and it easily heats it up and keeps it warm… Once our camper gets warm, we typically set it down to 70° for the night and wake up nice and warm.”
6. DREO 1500W PTC Ceramic Space Heater with Remote Thermostat 70-Degree Oscillation and 5 Modes
This Dreo model offers wide 70-degree oscillation and multiple operating modes, making it incredibly versatile. Whether you need a quick blast of heat or efficient all-night warmth, its five settings have you covered.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Wide 70-degree horizontal oscillation.
✓ Five modes: 3 heat levels, Fan, and ECO.
✓ Fast heating with 1500W PTC power.
✓ Energy-saving ECO mode.
✓ ETL-listed Shield360° safety system.
Why We Recommend It
The wide oscillation is its killer feature for a camper. It effectively circulates warmth throughout the small space, preventing cold spots. The variety of modes gives you fine-tuned control over your environment, from a quick warm-up to all-night efficiency.
Best For
Campers who want maximum flexibility and even heat distribution from a single, versatile appliance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent wide-angle oscillation for coverage.
- Multiple modes offer great flexibility.
- ECO mode is effective for saving energy.
- Comes with a handy remote.
Cons:
- Can be bulkier than non-oscillating towers.
- The number of modes might be overkill for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I am in love with this. It is so easy to use and easy to operate… You can adjust temperature, it has 3 main mode, HEAT (3 modes), Fan only, and ECO mode which saves energy.”
Customer Review: “I bought mine last year. So far this heater has worked pretty well and it produces a decent amount of heat… It does have the remote where you can adjust the temperature…”
7. Lasko 1500W Ceramic Tower Space Heater with Remote Thermostat Timer and Widespread Oscillation
From the trusted brand Lasko, this ceramic tower heater is a classic for good reason. It offers widespread oscillation, quiet operation, and a thermostat that automatically maintains your set temperature, providing true “set it and forget it” comfort.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Widespread oscillation for full-room coverage.
✓ Automatic thermostat mode for hands-off operation.
✓ Quiet performance for bedrooms and living areas.
✓ Remote control and timer functions.
✓ Cool-touch housing and ETL-listed safety.
Why We Recommend It
Lasko is synonymous with reliable home heating, and that translates well to camper use. Its automatic mode is perfect for maintaining a steady temperature all night. If you want a trustworthy brand name backing up your camper heat, this is a solid pick.
Best For
Campers who prefer well-known brands and want a simple, effective oscillating tower heater with reliable auto-mode functionality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Trusted brand with a reputation for durability.
- Effective automatic thermostat mode.
- Quiet and oscillates for even heat.
- Includes a remote control for convenience.
Cons:
- Tower design has a larger footprint than some compact boxes.
- Style may be less modern than some newer models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a great little heater and a wonderful value. It heats my entire room and I use it daily… I love that there are numeric options as well as a max heat function…”
Customer Review: “This space heater is AWESOME! I love that you can set a temperature expectation, and it automatically turns on when the temperature falls below that setting. It makes keeping a room comfortable effortless.”
8. Dreo 1500W Space Heater with 60-Degree Adjustable Tilt Remote Thermostat and 3 Modes
This innovative Dreo heater adds a manual vertical tilt to its features. This allows you to angle the heat upward towards a bunk bed or downward towards the floor, giving you direct control over where the warmth goes in your camper.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Manual vertical tilt adjustment (0°, 20°, 40°, 60°).
✓ Fast 2-second heat delivery with 1500W power.
✓ Three operating modes for different needs.
✓ Remote-controlled thermostat.
✓ Advanced safety with V0 flame-retardant materials.
Why We Recommend It
The adjustable tilt is a uniquely useful feature for a camper’s varied layout. It solves the problem of heat getting trapped at floor level or missing a sleeping area. This level of directional control, combined with fast heating, makes it a very practical choice.
Best For
Campers with bunk beds, raised sleeping areas, or who simply want the ability to physically direct the flow of warm air precisely where it’s needed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique and useful adjustable tilt feature.
- Extremely fast heating from a cold start.
- Compact and portable design.
- High safety standards with flame-retardant build.
Cons:
- Tilt is manual, not motorized.
- Does not oscillate horizontally.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is the best small heater I have ever used. Very quiet, heats my bedroom up quickly… The remote makes it more convenient to use. I love that it also has separate fan settings…”
Customer Review: “This is my second Dreo space heater… Efficient, well designed aesthetically and functionally with a lot of bang for the buck, and pretty darn QUIET, which is a huge plus.”
9. Caframo True North Heater Low Profile Quiet and Powerful for Home and Office Use
The Caframo True North is a rugged, marine-grade heater built to last. Its low-profile, stable design and unique anti-freeze setting make it an exceptional choice for campers who store their rig in cold weather or need a tough, reliable heater.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Rugged, low-profile steel construction.
✓ Built-in adjustable thermostat.
✓ Special anti-freeze setting (activates at 38°F/3°C).
✓ Three heat and two fan-only settings.
✓ Renowned for quiet operation.
Why We Recommend It
This is the over-engineered, buy-it-for-life option. Its anti-freeze mode is genius for winter camper storage, preventing pipes from freezing. The build quality is a step above typical plastic heaters, offering durability that matches the rugged camping lifestyle.
Best For
Campers who prioritize durability, need a heater for winter storage protection, or who boat camp and want a marine-tough appliance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable, high-quality construction.
- Low center of gravity makes it very stable.
- Anti-freeze setting is perfect for cold-weather storage.
- Known for being very quiet.
Cons:
- Higher price point due to premium build.
- Lacks modern features like a remote or digital display.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This heater is made in Canada and has a 5 year warranty. The case is mostly steel… The controls operate smoothly and the thermostat turns on and off quietly.”
Customer Review: “I have four of these… We use them to help heat the camper when it gets really cold out. We use one to add additional heat to an office room that the furnace doesn’t reach well.”
10. Dreo Whole Room Heater with 3D Oscillation Long-Range Circulator and Multiple Heat Fan Settings
This is Dreo’s ultimate whole-room heating machine, featuring 3D oscillation that moves both vertically and horizontally. It’s designed to rapidly circulate warm air throughout an entire space, making it ideal for larger campers or trailers.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 3D Oscillation: 60° vertical + 90° horizontal.
✓ Powerful 12ft/s airflow for long-range circulation.
✓ 2-second instant heat with 1500W PTC.
✓ Multiple heat and fan settings for total control.
✓ ETL-listed with comprehensive safety shutoffs.
Why We Recommend It
For the largest camper setups, this heater’s ability to move air vigorously in all directions is unmatched. It doesn’t just heat the area right in front of it; it actively works to equalize the temperature in the entire room, combating the drafts and cold spots common in RVs.
Best For
Owners of large campers, fifth-wheels, or toy haulers who need a heater with powerful, far-reaching air circulation to heat the whole space evenly.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior whole-room air circulation with 3D oscillation.
- Powerful airflow reaches across large spaces.
- Heats up incredibly quickly.
- Very quiet for its power level.
Cons:
- Larger and more substantial than other models.
- May be overkill for a very small pop-up or van camper.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Central heat/ac went out few years ago, so I’ve gotten very familiar with different heating sources… This is one of the best heaters I’ve used… My house is about 1200 sq ft.”
Customer Review: “It’s started to get pretty cool in the A.M. here… I plugged it up and set it on high with double oscillation. So far it’s warmed us up enough to be comfortable and I can feel the heat in the next room. Extremely quite operation.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Non Electric Heater For Camper
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the best non-electric heater for your camper isn’t just about warmth. You need to think about safety first. Look for tip-over protection and overheat protection. These are non-negotiable in a small, flammable space. Next, consider size and placement. A compact or wall-mount model saves precious floor space. Also, look at power draw (watts) and ensure your camper’s electrical system can handle it, especially if you’re using other appliances. Finally, think about noise. A quiet heater is crucial for a good night’s sleep.
Budget Planning
You can find a great camper heater at almost any price. Budget models under $50 will provide basic, reliable heat with core safety features. Mid-range heaters ($50-$150) add conveniences like remotes, digital thermostats, timers, and oscillation. Premium heaters ($150+) offer advanced builds, smart features like Wi-Fi, and specialized functions like anti-freeze modes. Remember, the best value balances the features you need with a reputation for safety and durability.
Final Thoughts
The “best” heater is the one that fits your specific camper, camping style, and budget. Prioritize safety certifications like ETL listing. Match the heater’s power and features to the size of your space and how you use it. A smaller trailer might do great with a simple compact heater, while a large fifth-wheel may benefit from a powerful oscillating model. Read reviews from other campers to see how the heater performs in real-world RV conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are these heaters safe to use while I’m sleeping in my camper?
A: Safety is paramount. All the heaters we recommend have essential safety features like automatic tip-over and overheat protection. Many also have timers or thermostats that allow for safe, automated operation. However, it’s always a good practice to ensure the heater has clear space around it, is on a stable surface, and that your camper’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning.
Q: Can I run a 1500W heater on my camper’s electrical system?
A: It depends. A 1500W heater draws about 12.5 amps. If you are plugged into a standard 15-amp or 20-amp shore power pedestal at a campground, you should be fine, but avoid running other high-wattage appliances simultaneously. If you are trying to run it off an inverter from your batteries, it will drain them very quickly and is generally not practical. Always check your camper’s electrical capacity.
Q: What’s the difference between ceramic and infrared heating?
A> Ceramic heaters use a heated element and a fan to blow warm air into the room. They heat the air quickly. Infrared heaters emit radiant heat that warms objects and people directly, similar to sunlight. Infrared heat can feel more instantly soothing and often operates more quietly, as it doesn’t always require a fan. Both are effective for camper use.
Q: Do I need a heater with a fan-only mode?
A> A fan-only mode is a surprisingly useful feature for a camper. In the warmer months, you can use the heater as a simple circulating fan to move air around, helping with ventilation and comfort without adding heat. It turns a single-season appliance into a year-round tool.
Staying warm in your camper shouldn’t be a challenge. With the right non-electric heater, you can enjoy cozy comfort that extends your camping adventures into the cooler seasons. We’ve reviewed options from smart wall-mounted units to powerful oscillating towers and rugged, durable classics. Consider your space, your power needs, and the features that matter most to you. Whether you choose our smart Best Choice, the powerful Editor’s Pick, or the value-packed Best Budget option, you’re investing in safer, more enjoyable trips. Ready to find your perfect camper heater? Check out the top picks on Amazon today and get ready for your next adventure in total comfort.
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