Best Caravan Heaters for Winter Travel in Australia

Caravan Equipment and AccessoriesMark Edzel Potane
Best Caravan Heaters for Winter Travel in Australia

Winter in Australia brings crisp mornings and chilly nights, especially for those exploring the southern regions. For caravan enthusiasts, a reliable heating system is essential to ensure comfort during these colder months. RV Online offers a curated selection of heaters tailored for various caravan setups. Let's delve into the top choices to keep you warm on the road.

Top Caravan Heaters Available at RV Online

1. Truma VarioHeat Eco Gas Heater Kit

  • Type: Gas

  • Output: 1.3–2.8 kW

  • Ideal for: Small to medium caravans

  • Features:

    • Compact and lightweight design

    • Two output levels for efficient heating

    • Boost function for rapid warmth

    • Compatible with Truma CP Plus digital control panel

  • Pros: Quick heating, space-saving, and energy-efficient

  • Cons: Requires professional installationTruma VarioHeat eco Gas Heater Kit with Cream Cowl - RV Online

2. Truma Combi D6 Diesel Heater and Hot Water System Kit

  • Type: Diesel

  • Output: 6 kW

  • Ideal for: Large caravans and motorhomes

  • Features:

    • Dual functionality: space heating and water heating

    • Operates while driving

    • Controlled via Truma CP Plus panel

    • Lightweight and compact for its capacity

  • Pros: Multifunctional, efficient, and suitable for larger spaces

  • Cons: Higher upfront costTruma Combi D6 Diesel Heater with White Cowl

3. Truma Combi 4E Gas/Electric Heater

  • Type: Gas/Electric

  • Output: 4 kW

  • Ideal for: Medium to large caravans

  • Features:

    • Combines space and water heating

    • Operates on gas, electricity, or both

    • Quiet operation with efficient energy use

    • Controlled via Truma CP Plus panel

  • Pros: Versatile fuel options and dual functionality

  • Cons: Requires installation of additional ducting

4. Manan Diesel Heater Air 12V (5kW & 8kW Options)

  • Type: Diesel

  • Output: 5 kW or 8 kW

  • Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers and DIY installations

  • Features:

    • 12V operation suitable for off-grid use

    • LCD thermostat and remote control

    • Low fuel consumption

    • Includes installation kit

  • Pros: Affordable, user-friendly, and efficient

  • Cons: Professional installation recommended for safetyManan Diesel Heater Air 12V -5KW & 8KW Available - RV Online

5. Truma E-Kit Electric Heater for VarioHeat

  • Type: Electric (Add-on)

  • Output: Up to 1.8 kW

  • Ideal for: Enhancing Truma VarioHeat systems

  • Features:

    • Provides additional electric heating

    • Two heating coils for adjustable output

    • Operates on mains power or generator

    • Compact and lightweight

  • Pros: Versatile heating options and energy-saving

  • Cons: Only compatible with Truma VarioHeat systemsTruma - E-Kit - Additional electric heater for the Truma VarioHeat - RV Online

🔥 Types of Caravan Heaters

1. Diesel Caravan Heaters

Keywords: diesel heater for caravan, diesel heater caravan

  • How they work: Diesel heaters use diesel fuel from the caravan’s tank (or a separate tank) to produce heat. Air is drawn into a combustion chamber, heated by burning diesel, and then blown into the caravan.

  • Advantages:

    • Highly fuel-efficient

    • Great for off-grid use (runs independently of electric hookup)

    • Powerful and reliable in cold conditions

  • Examples: Truma Diesel Heater

2. Gas Caravan Heaters (LPG Heaters)

  • How they work: Run on LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) to heat the air via a heat exchanger.

  • Advantages:

    • Silent operation

    • Efficient when connected to gas supply

    • Doesn’t rely heavily on battery power

  • Considerations:

    • Requires adequate ventilation

    • Professional installation often recommended

3. Electric Caravan Heaters

  • How they work: Use the caravan’s 240V mains power or inverter system to generate heat through electric elements.

  • Types: Fan heaters, oil column heaters, ceramic heaters, panel heaters, 12v heater

  • Advantages:

    • Affordable and easy to install

    • Ideal when connected to mains power

  • Drawbacks:

    • Not suitable for off-grid camping without a powerful inverter system or generator

4. Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning Units (with Heating Function)

  • How they work: These are air conditioners with a reverse cycle mode that also provides heating.

  • Advantages:

    • Dual-purpose (cooling + heating)

    • Thermostatically controlled

    • Suitable for year-round comfort

  • Limitations:

    • Requires mains power or generator

    • Bulky and more costly to install

5. Solid Fuel (Wood or Pellet) Heaters

  • How they work: Burn wood, pellets, or other solid fuels in a small combustion chamber to heat the interior.

  • Advantages:

    • Traditional, rustic feel

    • Ideal for long-term campers

  • Disadvantages:

    • Requires chimney/flue installation

    • Messy and less convenient

6. Portable Butane/Propane Heaters

  • How they work: Small, portable units that burn gas canisters (butane or propane).

  • Use Case: Temporary or supplemental heating while camping

  • Caution: Not designed for overnight or enclosed use due to carbon monoxide risks


Safety Tips for Using Caravan Heaters

  • Ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

  • Installation: Always have heaters installed by certified professionals.

  • Maintenance: Regularly inspect and service heaters to ensure optimal performance.

  • Usage: Avoid leaving heaters unattended or running them overnight without safety features.

Additional Tips for Staying Warm

  • Insulation: Use thermal curtains and window coverings to retain heat.

  • Bedding: Invest in quality thermal bedding and blankets.

  • Clothing: Dress in layers, including thermal undergarments and socks.

  • Flooring: Consider adding rugs or mats to insulate floors.

Tags: Caravan equipment and accessories, Product guides and reviews