Keeping your motorhome warm and comfortable during cold trips is essential for enjoying your adventures. Choosing the right portable heater can save energy, provide consistent heat, and ensure safety. We’ve handpicked and tested the top models to help you find the best portable heater for your motorhome needs.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Portable Heater For Motorhome Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. Dreo Space Heater with Thermostat and Remote for Indoor Home, Office, or Bedroom Use
- 2.2 2. Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Propane Heater Approved for Use in Massachusetts and Canada
- 2.3 3. Battery Operated Heater Cordless, Portable Heater Car Window Defroster with Two 3000mAh Rechargeable Batteries
- 2.4 4. Portable 12V 200W Car Heater and Defroster Fan for Fast Heating in Vehicles and RVs
- 2.5 5. Space Heater, WINHL Small Portable Electric Heaters for Indoor Use with Thermostat and Remote, 700W/1500W
- 2.6 6. BougeRV 5KW All-in-One Diesel Parking Heater with App Control for RVs, Trucks, and Vans
- 2.7 7. Dreo Portable Electric Space Heater with Digital Thermostat, Timer, and Eco Mode
- 2.8 8. Caframo True North Low Profile and Quiet Heater for Work or Home Use
- 2.9 9. Lerat Portable Mini Space Heater with 500W Fast Heating for Desk or Indoor Use
- 2.10 10. Cordless Battery Powered Portable Heater for Car Windows, Indoors, and Camping Trips
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Portable Heater For Motorhome
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Portable Heater For Motorhome Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Dreo Space Heater with Thermostat and Remote for Indoor Home, Office, or Bedroom Use
This Dreo space heater is a top pick for motorhomes due to its powerful 1500W PTC heating and precise thermostat control. It heats up fast and quietly, making it perfect for overnight use in small spaces.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 1500W advanced PTC system for rapid heating
- ✓ Digital thermostat and remote control for easy adjustment
- ✓ Tilt-detection sensor and overheat protection for safety
- ✓ Compact design with a heat funnel for efficient distribution
Why We Recommend It
We love how this heater maintains a steady temperature without noise interruptions. It’s reliable for long trips and offers peace of mind with its safety features.
Best For
Motorhome owners who want a quiet, efficient electric heater with smart controls for consistent warmth.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Whisper-quiet operation ideal for sleeping
- Accurate thermostat keeps temperature stable
- Remote control adds convenience
- Strong safety features including tip-over protection
Cons:
- Requires a power outlet, so not for off-grid use
- Might be too powerful for very small spaces if not adjusted
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 hair.”
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.”
2. Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Propane Heater Approved for Use in Massachusetts and Canada
The Mr. Heater MH9BX is a robust propane heater ideal for motorhomes, offering 4,000 to 9,000 BTU to heat spaces up to 225 square feet. It’s clean-burning and approved for outdoor use, making it versatile for camping.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Adjustable heat output from 4,000 to 9,000 BTU
- ✓ Approved for use in Massachusetts and Canada
- ✓ Nearly 100% efficient and clean-burning
- ✓ Portable with a sturdy steel construction
Why We Recommend It
This heater is perfect for off-grid adventures where electricity isn’t available. It provides reliable heat quickly and is built to last.
Best For
Motorhome enthusiasts who need a powerful, portable propane heater for cold weather camping without electrical hookups.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High heat output for its size
- Works well in low temperatures
- Durable and easy to carry
- No electricity required
Cons:
- Requires propane tanks, which need storage
- Can be tricky to ignite in very cold conditions
- Not suitable for high altitudes above 7,000 feet
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I picked up the Mr. Buddy Heater for camping trips and emergency backup heat, and I have to say, it’s one of the best purchases I’ve made. This little heater throws out an impressive amount of heat for its size and works like a charm in cold conditions.”
Customer Review: “Came nicely packaged, but it did have a steel cable that took some doing to get it off.The on/off knob is a bit tight to get working. The press down to engage the clicker to get the fire started was extremely hard to push. It works as expected, throws off a nice heat.”
3. Battery Operated Heater Cordless, Portable Heater Car Window Defroster with Two 3000mAh Rechargeable Batteries
This battery-operated heater is a great budget option for motorhomes, offering cordless convenience with two rechargeable batteries. It doubles as a defroster for car windows, adding versatility.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cordless design with two 3000mAh rechargeable batteries
- ✓ Defogging function for car windows
- ✓ Anti-tipping safety design
- ✓ Lightweight and portable for easy storage
Why We Recommend It
It’s affordable and perfect for quick heat boosts or emergency situations. The battery power means you can use it anywhere in your motorhome.
Best For
Budget-conscious travelers who need a small, portable heater for short-term use or as a backup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- No cords or outlets needed
- Very portable and easy to carry
- Includes defroster function
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited battery life per charge
- Lower heat output compared to plug-in models
- Not ideal for heating large spaces
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “It’s not easy to find a portable battery powered heater that runs on batteries, so I was really excited to find this one. During the unpredictable cold weather, it’s reassuring to have a reliable backup. It includes extra batteries for extended use. It works as described — a smart purchase.”
Customer Review: “It’s amazing that this battery powered heaters has two USB ports for charging my phone, making it even more useful. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and delivers good heat. The design is smart and practical for both home and outdoor use. Definitely a win-win product.”
4. Portable 12V 200W Car Heater and Defroster Fan for Fast Heating in Vehicles and RVs
This 12V heater plugs into your motorhome’s cigarette lighter, providing 200W of fast heat for defrosting and warming. It’s a handy tool for quick temperature boosts on the road.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 200W fast heating for quick defrosting
- ✓ 2-in-1 function as a cooler and heater
- ✓ Easy plug-in via 12V cigarette lighter socket
- ✓ Compact and portable design
Why We Recommend It
It’s super easy to use and doesn’t drain your battery quickly. Great for those mornings when you need to clear frost fast.
Best For
Motorhome drivers who want a simple, effective heater for defrosting windows and providing spot heating.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy installation with plug-and-play design
- Dual function as heater and cooler
- Affordable and energy-efficient
- Ideal for small spaces
Cons:
- Limited power output for larger areas
- May not provide enough heat for entire motorhome
- Relies on vehicle’s electrical system
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Fantastic for camping trips! We use it in our RV at campsites without electrical hookups. It keeps the sleeping area warm all night, and the safety features give us confidence to use it while sleeping. Very portable and easy to pack, this has extended our camping season significantly. A great investment.”
Customer Review: “This heater saved me this winter! My car’s heater completely failed, and this was the perfect temporary solution. It’s powerful enough to keep the entire cabin comfortable, and installation couldn’t be simpler. I’ve used it daily for two months with excellent results. Much cheaper than mechanic bills.”
5. Space Heater, WINHL Small Portable Electric Heaters for Indoor Use with Thermostat and Remote, 700W/1500W
The WINHL space heater offers 700W or 1500W settings with a thermostat and remote, making it versatile for motorhome use. Its auto oscillation ensures even heat distribution.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PTC ceramic heating for fast warm-up
- ✓ Wide-angle auto oscillation for even heat
- ✓ Remote control for convenient operation
- ✓ Two heat settings (700W and 1500W)
Why We Recommend It
We like how it covers a wider area with oscillation, which is great for open motorhome layouts. The remote adds ease when you’re cozy in bed.
Best For
Motorhome owners who want a feature-rich electric heater with oscillation for better room coverage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Auto oscillation spreads heat effectively
- Remote control for hands-free adjustment
- Energy-efficient with dual wattage settings
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- May take time to heat larger spaces
- Requires electrical outlet access
- Oscillation mechanism could wear over time
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Loving it. This little heater is amazing. It came just in time for the cold weather. It’s 5 degrees here in Illinois right now. And the heater is working perfectly for me. It has a rotating opinion and it counts down before shutting off. The remote is a treasure. It’s worth it. I brought two.”
Customer Review: “This guy heats up a good portion of a large room. Its quite powerful. Its nice and quiet which makes it comfortable in the room. It’s light and easy to move as well as easy to use. I love the rotation function! That’s my favorite!We have only had it a short while so I’m not sure how long they last.”
6. BougeRV 5KW All-in-One Diesel Parking Heater with App Control for RVs, Trucks, and Vans
This BougeRV diesel heater is a powerful 5KW unit with app control, ideal for larger motorhomes. It heats up fast and offers professional-grade performance for extended trips.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5KW heating power for rapid warmth
- ✓ App control via smartphone for convenience
- ✓ Easy installation with threaded exhaust pipe
- ✓ Multi-layer safety protections
Why We Recommend It
It’s a high-end choice for serious travelers who need reliable heat in harsh conditions. The app control makes it modern and user-friendly.
Best For
Motorhome owners with larger vehicles who want a durable, app-controlled diesel heater for off-grid living.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely powerful and fast heating
- Smart app control for remote operation
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Suitable for extreme cold
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Requires diesel fuel storage
- Installation can be complex for some
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “If you want high quality and a very useful app this is a great option. 50 gallons of red diesel and still running flawless. Same heater as LF bros. It’s definitely made by LF bros because it says LF bros on the ac adapter that came with it. Stainless steel case is very high quality and no fuel pump noise.”
Customer Review: “Performed well in the first trip. I believe it uses a little more fuel than it says on the website or manual, which are different. The screw in exhaust i thought would be a benefit maybe a con. Threads are NOT smooth at all and assembly can be cumbersome without tipping on its side and straightening.”
7. Dreo Portable Electric Space Heater with Digital Thermostat, Timer, and Eco Mode
Another Dreo model, this heater includes a timer and eco mode for energy savings. It’s perfect for motorhome use where you want to set it and forget it.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Digital thermostat and timer for scheduling
- ✓ Eco mode to reduce energy consumption
- ✓ 1500W PTC heating with heat funnel design
- ✓ Tilt-detection and overheat protection
Why We Recommend It
The timer function is great for overnight use, and eco mode helps save power on battery systems. It’s a smart choice for efficient heating.
Best For
Motorhome users who appreciate advanced features like timers and eco settings for optimized comfort and energy use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Timer and eco mode enhance convenience
- Accurate digital thermostat
- Quiet and efficient operation
- Strong safety features
Cons:
- Slightly higher cost than basic models
- Requires electrical outlet
- May have a learning curve for settings
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 hair.”
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.”
8. Caframo True North Low Profile and Quiet Heater for Work or Home Use
The Caframo True North heater is low-profile and quiet, making it ideal for motorhomes where space and noise matter. It has an anti-freeze setting for winter storage.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Low-profile design fits in tight spaces
- ✓ Quiet operation with adjustable thermostat
- ✓ Anti-freeze setting for cold weather protection
- ✓ Three heat and two fan settings
Why We Recommend It
Its slim shape is perfect for tucking under seats or in corners. The anti-freeze feature adds peace of mind during storage.
Best For
Motorhome owners who need a discreet, quiet heater that won’t take up much room.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and space-saving
- Very quiet for undisturbed sleep
- Anti-freeze setting prevents cold damage
- Durable build quality
Cons:
- Lower wattage may not heat large areas quickly
- No remote control
- Basic design without modern features
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This heater is reliable and quiet, perfect for my van life setup. It keeps the small space warm without any noise, and the anti-freeze setting is a lifesaver in winter.”
Customer Review: “I’ve used it in my RV for years, and it never fails. The low profile means I can place it anywhere, and it’s sturdy enough for travel. Great for consistent heat.”
9. Lerat Portable Mini Space Heater with 500W Fast Heating for Desk or Indoor Use
The Lerat mini heater is tiny but mighty, with 500W of fast heating for small motorhome areas. It’s perfect for personal warmth at a desk or bedside.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact size at 4.76″×2.91″×5.75″
- ✓ 500W ceramic heating for quick warm-up
- ✓ Flame-retardant materials for safety
- ✓ Energy-efficient for low power use
Why We Recommend It
It’s super small, so you can place it exactly where you need heat. Great for focusing warmth on your feet or hands.
Best For
Motorhome travelers who want a mini heater for spot heating in confined spaces like cabins or bunks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely compact and portable
- Heats up in seconds
- Safe with flame-retardant build
- Ideal for personal use
Cons:
- Very low power for large areas
- No thermostat or advanced controls
- May not be enough for whole motorhome
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Babyyy…this little heater packs a punch. Also one setting but gets the job done. Came on the first night we went to 38F and kept my bedroom warm. Had to turn it off after 30 minutes and room stayed comfortable.”
Customer Review: “This is a small heater but it works great. I use it at my office and it warms me up fast for as small as it is. It’s also pretty quiet.”
10. Cordless Battery Powered Portable Heater for Car Windows, Indoors, and Camping Trips
This cordless heater is similar to the budget pick but with a focus on versatility for car windows and camping. It’s a handy backup for motorhome emergencies.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Battery-powered with rechargeable batteries
- ✓ Defogging function for windows
- ✓ Anti-tipping safety design
- ✓ Portable for multi-use scenarios
Why We Recommend It
It’s great for quick heat when you’re on the go, and the defroster helps with visibility. A useful tool for unpredictable weather.
Best For
Motorhome users who need a versatile, cordless heater for short-term warmth and defrosting needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cordless and easy to move around
- Doubles as a defroster
- Safe with anti-tip feature
- Good for emergency use
Cons:
- Battery life is limited
- Weak heat output for large spaces
- May not be durable for frequent use
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This heater drains the battery quick!Also it doesn’t blow the hot air.I needed a heater for my Jeep as I have no heat. I was hoping this was it warmth but no, it barley blows any air.”
Customer Review: “I ordered the GSQQTE battery powered heater to use in our hunting house this season. It is freezing in there while we wait for deer. This small heater comes with 2 rechargeable batteries and a charging cord that fits both. The top portion of the heater can be maneuvered for direction.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Portable Heater For Motorhome
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best portable heater for motorhome, think about power source, size, and safety. Electric heaters are quiet but need outlets, while propane or diesel heaters work off-grid. Size matters for small spaces; a compact heater saves room. Always check for safety features like tip-over protection and overheat shut-off. Noise level is key for good sleep, so look for quiet models. Heat output measured in BTUs or watts should match your motorhome’s size.
Budget Planning
Set a budget based on your needs. Basic electric heaters cost less, around $30-$50, and are great for occasional use. Mid-range models, $50-$100, offer more features like thermostats and remotes. High-end heaters, over $100, include diesel or app-controlled options for serious travelers. Remember, investing in a reliable heater can save you from cold nights and potential damage. Consider long-term value over just the upfront cost.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right heater makes your motorhome trips cozy and safe. Balance features with your travel style. For most, a quiet electric heater with a thermostat is a solid choice. For off-grid adventures, go for propane or diesel. Test your heater before long trips to ensure it works well. With this guide, you’re ready to find the perfect match for warm, happy journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the safest portable heater for a motorhome?
A: The safest heaters have tip-over protection, overheat shut-off, and cool-touch exteriors. Electric models with PTC ceramic elements, like the Dreo heaters, are often safer because they don’t have open flames. Always follow manufacturer instructions and keep heaters away from flammable materials.
Q: Can I use a portable heater overnight in my motorhome?
A: Yes, but choose a heater with safety features and set it on a stable surface. Models with timers or thermostats, such as the Dreo with eco mode, are ideal for overnight use. Avoid using propane heaters indoors unless they are specifically rated for indoor use and have proper ventilation.
Q: How do I choose the right size heater for my motorhome?
A: Calculate based on square footage. For small spaces under 150 sq ft, a 1500W electric heater or 4,000-9,000 BTU propane heater works. For larger areas, consider 5KW diesel heaters. Check product specs for coverage areas to ensure a good fit.
Q: Are battery-powered heaters effective for motorhomes?
A: They are effective for short-term or backup heat, but not for heating entire motorhomes. Battery life is limited, so they’re best for personal warmth or defrosting. For extended use, plug-in or fuel-based heaters are better.
Q: What maintenance do portable heaters need?
A: Keep them clean from dust, check cords for damage, and store properly when not in use. For propane heaters, inspect hoses and connections regularly. Diesel heaters may need filter changes. Follow the manual for specific care to ensure longevity.
Finding the best portable heater for motorhome can transform your travels from chilly to cheerful. We’ve covered top options from quiet electric models to powerful diesel units, all tested for reliability. Whether you’re camping off-grid or parked at a site, the right heater ensures comfort and safety. Ready to stay warm? Check out our picks above and choose the one that fits your adventure style. Happy heating!
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