Heating Your Camper Van: Off-Grid Methods To Stay Cozy

Heating a camper van without electricity is possible and there are several ways to do it. One way is to use a propane furnace, which is a common feature in many RVs, motorhomes, and camper trailers. These furnaces use propane gas for heat and only a small amount of electricity to regulate temperature and monitor settings. Another option is a portable space heater, which can be powered by propane or diesel fuel. If you're looking for a more off-grid solution, a wood stove is a great option. Wood stoves require only scrap wood and paper, and while they may seem dangerous, they can be safely installed and operated in a camper van. Additionally, improving your camper van's insulation can make a big difference in retaining heat. This can be done by sealing openings, installing an RV skirt, and upgrading insulation in the floor, ceiling, and walls.

Use a portable space heater

Using a portable space heater is one of the easiest ways to heat a camper van without electricity. These small heaters can efficiently heat a space without needing to be plugged in as they run off propane gas.

One of the most popular heaters on the market is the Mr. Heater MH9BX. It is a propane radiant heater and is rated as indoor-safe.

If you are using a portable propane heater, it is important to follow these safety guidelines:

• Ensure that the heater is far away from all flammable materials and objects.
• Never leave a space heater running when people are sleeping or away from the camper.
• Check that fire-suppressing equipment, such as a fire extinguisher and a fire blanket, are in working order and easily attainable.
• Make sure that your camper has plenty of ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide build-up.
• Ensure your camper is well-insulated so that you only need to run the heater for short periods.

As long as you take the proper precautions, using a portable space heater is a great way to heat your camper van.

Insulate your camper van

Insulating your camper van is an important step to ensure that your efforts to heat the van are effective. Without proper insulation, you may find yourself spending more time and money than necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature. Here are some tips to insulate your camper van effectively:

• Seal any gaps or openings: Use caulk or weather stripping to seal any holes, cracks, or gaps in your camper van's exterior. Pay close attention to areas around windows, doors, vents, and hatches. By sealing these openings, you will prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping.
• Install an RV skirt: An RV skirt insulates the undercarriage of your camper van, preventing cold air and wind from entering through the floor. This helps to maintain a more comfortable temperature inside the van.
• Upgrade your insulation: Consider revamping the insulation in your floor, ceiling, and walls. Using more efficient insulation materials can significantly improve the van's ability to retain heat. This may be a more time-consuming and costly endeavour, but it will pay off in the long run.
• Regular maintenance: Maintain your camper van's caulking and weather stripping by replacing them when they show signs of degradation or dry rot. This will help prevent drafts and heat loss.
• Cover windows with reflective insulated panels: These foil panels help retain heat inside the van and can also amplify the warmth, making the interior feel even cozier.
• Add thick rugs or carpets: Cover the floor of your camper van with thick, plush rugs or carpets. These will not only make the floor feel warmer but also act as an extra layer of insulation.
• Use draught excluders: Place rolled towels or blankets at the bottom of doorways to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping.

By following these steps, you will create a well-insulated camper van that retains heat more efficiently. This will reduce the amount of time and energy needed to heat the space, making it more comfortable and cost-effective for your off-grid adventures.

Use your vehicle's heater

Using your vehicle's heater is a great way to warm up your camper van, especially if you are camping in a motorhome where the vehicle cabin connects to your living area. Even if it doesn't, you can still use your vehicle's heater to warm up. All you need to do is start the engine and turn up the heat. This solution is best for short-term trips rather than long-term ones, as you will need to start the engine multiple times during the night to keep warm.

While this method may not be ideal if it is very cold outside or if your RV is well-insulated, it is a good option to quickly warm up and stay out of the elements. If you are camping in cold weather, it is recommended to have proper insulation in your camper van to retain the heat generated by your vehicle's heater. This includes regularly replacing the caulking and weather stripping on your camper van to prevent drafts from entering, covering the windows with reflective insulated panels, and placing rugs on the floor to act as an extra layer of insulation.

Additionally, if you are planning to use your vehicle's heater as your primary heat source, it is important to ensure that your camper van is well-ventilated to prevent a build-up of carbon monoxide, which can be dangerous. Overall, using your vehicle's heater is a convenient way to warm up your camper van without electricity, especially if you are camping in a motorhome or for short-term trips.

Install a wood stove

A wood stove is a great way to heat your camper van without electricity. It's a cheap and effective method, with a cosy aesthetic and a wonderful smell. However, there are some safety considerations to keep in mind, such as ensuring proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide build-up and complying with safety regulations. Here are some tips on how to install a wood stove in your camper van:

Choosing the Right Wood Stove

When choosing a wood stove for your camper van, consider the size of the stove and the space you have available. You don't want a stove that's too big or too small for your van. The Cubic Mini Stove is a popular option for camper vans, especially Mercedes Sprinter conversions. It measures 11" x 12" x 10.5" and can produce up to 14,000 BTUs, which is enough to heat an RV up to 40' long. If you have a smaller van, you might consider the Mini Log Burner, which is only 12.5" tall.

Installation Process

Now that you've chosen the right wood stove for your camper van, it's time to install it. Here are the steps you need to take:

• Find the perfect spot for your stove in your van. Consider the size and weight of the stove, as well as the location of the flue.
• Measure and cut a hole in the roof for the flue. This can be a challenging task, so make sure you're confident in your measurements before cutting.
• Install a flexible Masterflash deck fitting made of silicone-based rubber. This will provide flexibility and waterproof protection for your flue.
• Use double-wall insulated pipes for your flue to prevent a creosote problem. Try to avoid using elbow parts if possible, as they can sacrifice performance.
• Build a stand for your stove out of plywood. Make sure it's sturdy and secure, and consider adding a cabin-like design with wood panels.
• Install a stone or tile base for your stove to sit on. This will provide a heat-proof surface and ensure the stove is stable.
• Install a fire-resistant board, such as Hardibacker, behind your fire for added safety.
• Add a rain cap to your flue to prevent rain from getting down your chimney.

Safety Considerations

When installing a wood stove in your camper van, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind:

• Always use seasoned or dry wood as fuel. Damp wood can generate high amounts of soot and acidic tar, which can lead to a chimney fire.
• Be aware of carbon monoxide levels. Wood-burning stoves produce high amounts of carbon monoxide, which can be dangerous if it builds up in your van. Ensure proper ventilation and consider installing a carbon monoxide detector.
• Comply with safety regulations and insurance requirements. Some insurers may not cover fires caused by solid fuel heaters, so check with your provider beforehand.
• Regularly maintain your wood stove to ensure it remains safe and functional.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood stove in your camper van without electricity.

Use warm bedding

Using warm bedding is a great way to keep your camper van warm without electricity, especially at night when you're asleep. Here are some tips to help you stay warm:

Flannel Sheets

Use flannel sheets instead of regular cotton or silk sheets. Flannel sheets are thicker and retain much more heat, making them ideal for cold camping nights.

Thermal Sleeping Bags

Thermal sleeping bags are designed to efficiently trap and hold body heat. They are a great option for staying warm in an unheated camper van as they can make your bed into a cosy pocket of warmth.

Hot Water Bottles

Hot water bottles are excellent for generating and trapping heat inside your bedding. Place one at the end of your bed or near your feet to keep your toes toasty. Insulated bedding will help trap the heat given off by the hot water bottle, keeping you warm for longer.

Down Comforters

Layering a down comforter over your sheets or thermal sleeping bag will add extra warmth. Down comforters are great for conserving heat, so they'll help keep you snug even if the rest of the camper van gets cold.

Disposable Heating Pads

Disposable heating pads are a convenient way to warm up your bedding before you get into bed. They generate heat for up to two and a half hours after activation, so they're a good option if you need some extra warmth but don't want to rely on hot water bottles.

Wool Socks and a Beanie

Don't forget to keep your head and feet warm! Wool socks and a beanie will help prevent heat loss from your head and feet, which are common areas for heat escape.

By using a combination of these methods, you can effectively use warm bedding to stay cosy in your camper van, even without electricity.

Frequently asked questions