Heating in Your Campervan: Which One Is Right? 🚐 (EN)

We have to face it: summer doesn’t last forever! But no worries – the right heating keeps you cozy and comfortable even when temperatures drop. Here, we look at gas, diesel, and electric heaters – along with all their pros and cons – so you can find the system that best fits your Campervan style.

Gas Heating: The Classic

Gas heating is a true classic – and for good reason. If your Campervan already has gas appliances like a stove or fridge, a gas heater is the perfect addition. Why? Because you don’t need to install a new energy source. Gas heaters are affordable, easy to use, and gas is widely available (e.g., at hardware stores). Advantages:

Affordable and simple: low purchase costs and easy to operate. Just connect the gas cylinder and you’re ready.
Availability: gas can be found almost anywhere, from camping stores to gas stations. Pro tip: always carry a spare cylinder!
Versatile: gas heaters can heat air or water.

Safety first! Gas requires professional installation, careful handling, and regular maintenance. If you use a fan, electricity is also needed, so make sure you have a reliable power supply. Certified systems, like Truma, and safety features such as a carbon monoxide detector keep you safe.

Also note:

Different connection standards: abroad, you often need adapters to fill or connect the gas cylinder.
Space and weight: gas cylinders take up storage space and increase the weight of your Camper Van – factor this into your trip planning.

Our vehicles come equipped with a gas heating system as standard. In our Campervans and VANS, the Truma Combi 4 gas heater ensures pleasant warmth – except in the CLIFF 601 and VANLIFE 540 V layouts, where it comes in the diesel version. In contrast, the Truma Combi 6 gas heater is used in our Couchbuilt motorhomes.

Tip: Adventure Crew member Jasper Jauch shows in this video where the gas system is, how to safely replace the cylinder, and shares further tips for proper use.

Tutorial: Gas supply in the camper

Diesel Heating: Heat from Your Tank

Diesel heating is perfect if you want to stay flexible and avoid carrying extra gas cylinders. You can simply use the diesel from your Camper Van’s tank – and voilà, it’s warm! Here are the pros and cons:

Efficient: good heating performance with moderate fuel consumption.
Availability: diesel is available at almost every gas station, even in remote areas.
Space-saving: no additional storage needed as it uses the vehicle’s tank.

But: they are more expensive to purchase, sometimes louder, and can emit odors if not used regularly. Electricity is also needed for the fan and to heat the heat exchanger. To ensure optimal performance, diesel heaters should be used regularly, even if the Campervan is stationary – this prevents unpleasant odors and ensures smooth operation.

Some of our SUNLIGHT Campervans can be fitted with the Truma Combi 4 diesel heater, like the CLIFF Adventure and CLIFF X. The CLIFF Adventure 601 and VANLIFE 540 V already come with a diesel heater as standard.

Electric Heating: The Quiet Power

For those who prefer peace and simplicity – an electric heater is highly efficient and warms your Campervan quickly. Advantages:

Quiet: perfect for calm nights without disturbing noise.
Can be used in combined operation, for example gas and electricity
No fuel: independent of gas or diesel – ideal as supplementary heating.

But without electricity, no heat! If your planned pitch doesn’t have a stable 230V connection, it will stay cold. Electric heating is only practical as a primary solution if you frequently connect to mains power or stay at well-equipped pitches.

Our A Class and Low Profiles motorhomes have a built-in Truma Combi 6 E, which is a combination heater that can run on both gas and electricity – for maximum flexibility. However, they’re only useful as a supplement. The performance of an electric heater can’t compete with a gas or diesel heater. But they help maintain the temperature or can provide a little extra heat in milder temperatures. So, they’re more of a supplement to your main system.

Tip: In this video, Jasper explains everything you need to know about the electrical system in SUNLIGHT vehicles: how power supply works, how to switch between battery and external power, and what to do if issues occur.

Tutorial: Power supply in a camper van

Conclusion: Which Heating Is Right for You?

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” – it depends on your actual needs.

➡️ Gas: a versatile all-rounder for mixed use and flexible stays at campsites or off-grid locations.

➡️ Diesel: perfect for adventurers who value independence and long trips.

➡️ Electric: comfortable and quiet – ideal for those who mainly camp with mains power.

Whichever system you choose, a well-selected heater transforms your Campervan into a cozy retreat. High-quality products from specialized providers offer solutions for every need. Think about what matters most to you – and get your Campervan ready for every season.

Tip: Decide on a heating option before buying your Campervan – it will save you money and complications from retrofitting later.