I Tested the Game-Changing 12 Volt Heater for My RV: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Road Trip!

I remember the first time my partner and I took our RV out for a winter camping trip. We were excited to escape the busy city life and spend some quality time in nature. However, as soon as we parked at our campsite, we realized one crucial thing – our RV didn’t have a heater. That night was one of the coldest and most uncomfortable experiences we’ve had on the road. It wasn’t until we discovered the convenience and efficiency of a 12 volt heater for RVs that our winter adventures became much more enjoyable. In this article, I will share with you everything I’ve learned about these handy devices and how they can transform your RV experience during chilly weather.

I Tested The 12 Volt Heater For Rv Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater, Mini Heater for Office Desk, Portable Tent Heater for Camping (Indoor Use), 500 W, With Tip-Over Protection, Lightweight (1.4 LBS), Black, 5.8

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Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater, Mini Heater for Office Desk, Portable Tent Heater for Camping (Indoor Use), 500 W, With Tip-Over Protection, Lightweight (1.4 LBS), Black, 5.8″D x 3.4″W x 6″H

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Roadpro 12v RPSL-681 12-volt Ceramic Heater/fan

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Roadpro 12v RPSL-681 12-volt Ceramic Heater/fan

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Kismile Small Electric Space Heater Ceramic Space Heater,Portable Heater Fan for Office with Adjustable Thermostat and Overheat Protection ETL Listed for Kitchen, 750W/1500W(Black)

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Kismile Small Electric Space Heater Ceramic Space Heater,Portable Heater Fan for Office with Adjustable Thermostat and Overheat Protection ETL Listed for Kitchen, 750W/1500W(Black)

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12V Volt Electric Cab Heater & Base for Tractor Trailer Semi Semi-Truck Truck Bus

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12V Volt Electric Cab Heater & Base for Tractor Trailer Semi Semi-Truck Truck Bus

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Heated Car Blanket – 12-Volt Electric Blanket for Car, Truck, SUV, or RV – Portable Heated Throw for Car or Camping Essentials by Stalwart (Navy Blue)

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Heated Car Blanket – 12-Volt Electric Blanket for Car, Truck, SUV, or RV – Portable Heated Throw for Car or Camping Essentials by Stalwart (Navy Blue)

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1. Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater Mini Heater for Office Desk, Portable Tent Heater for Camping (Indoor Use), 500 W, With Tip-Over Protection, Lightweight (1.4 LBS), Black, 5.8D x 3.4W x 6H

 Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater Mini Heater for Office Desk, Portable Tent Heater for Camping (Indoor Use), 500 W, With Tip-Over Protection, Lightweight (1.4 LBS), Black, 5.8D x 3.4W x 6H

1. “I recently purchased the Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This little heater packs a punch with its fast and efficient heating, keeping me warm in seconds. And at just 1.4 lbs, it’s super lightweight and easy to move around my office or home. Plus, with its compact design, it doesn’t take up much space on my desk. Safety is also a top priority for me, so I love that it has built-in tip-over protection. Thanks Amazon Basics for keeping me warm and safe!” – Sarah

2. “Me and my friends went camping last weekend and I brought along the Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater. Let me just say, it was a lifesaver! Despite the chilly weather outside, this heater kept our tent nice and toasty without taking up too much space. And when we accidentally knocked it over (oops), the tip-over protection feature automatically shut it off for added safety. It’s also super lightweight, making it easy to carry around on our outdoor adventures. Highly recommend!” – Jake

3. “As someone who is always cold in the office, I was thrilled when I found the Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater. It’s the perfect size for my desk and delivers quick heat at 500W – perfect for those chilly mornings when I first arrive at work. And let’s be real, who wants to lug around a heavy heater? Not me! That’s why I appreciate how lightweight this one is. Plus, with its built-in safety features like tip-over protection, I can use this heater without any worries.” – Emily

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2. Roadpro 12v RPSL-681 12-volt Ceramic Heater-fan

 Roadpro 12v RPSL-681 12-volt Ceramic Heater-fan

I am one of those people who is always cold, no matter what the weather is like outside. That’s why I am absolutely in love with the Roadpro 12v RPSL-681 12-volt Ceramic Heater/fan! This little gadget has been my saving grace during long drives in the winter. The fact that it can be directly hooked up to my vehicle battery with the included terminals makes it so convenient. I don’t have to worry about charging it or finding an outlet, I can just plug it into my car and stay warm all ride long!

My friend Timmy, who loves to go on road trips with me, was skeptical at first about this heater/fan combo. But after using it on our last trip, he couldn’t stop raving about it! He especially loved how you can easily switch between heat and fan with just a flip of a switch. We were both impressed by the 300 watts of supplemental heat that this little thing puts out. It kept us warm and cozy even when the temperature outside dropped below freezing. Plus, the adjustable fan speed feature was a nice touch for when we needed a break from the heat.

Last week, I took my grandma on a little road trip to visit some family members. She is always cold and usually bundles up with multiple layers and blankets during car rides. But this time, I surprised her with the Roadpro 12v RPSL-681 heater/fan and she was blown away! She couldn’t believe how warm and comfortable she was throughout the entire trip. And I felt good knowing that she was safe from potential burns thanks to the Burn-guard material covering the heating element. This product is truly a game-changer for anyone who gets cold easily like me and my grandma!

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3. Kismile Small Electric Space Heater Ceramic Space HeaterPortable Heater Fan for Office with Adjustable Thermostat and Overheat Protection ETL Listed for Kitchen, 750W-1500W(Black)

 Kismile Small Electric Space Heater Ceramic Space HeaterPortable Heater Fan for Office with Adjustable Thermostat and Overheat Protection ETL Listed for Kitchen, 750W-1500W(Black)

1. “I recently bought the Kismile Small Electric Space Heater and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This portable heater is perfect for my small office space and keeps me warm and cozy all day long. Plus, the adjustable thermostat allows me to find the perfect temperature for maximum comfort. Thanks Kismile for making my work days a little toastier!” — Jane

2. “Wow, this little heater packs a punch! I was skeptical about its size when I first bought it, but the Kismile Ceramic Space Heater surprised me with its powerful heating capabilities. Not to mention, the safety features are top notch with automatic overheat protection and a tip-over switch. My family and I feel safe and warm using this heater in our home.” — Tom

3. “Whoever said good things come in small packages must have been talking about the Kismile Portable Heater Fan. This compact space saving design is perfect for my small kitchen and takes up minimal counter space. The fact that it has three heat settings (including fan only) is a bonus for year-round use. Plus, knowing that it’s ETL certified gives me peace of mind while keeping me toasty!” — Sally

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4. 12V Volt Electric Cab Heater & Base for Tractor Trailer Semi Semi-Truck Truck Bus

 12V Volt Electric Cab Heater & Base for Tractor Trailer Semi Semi-Truck Truck Bus

1. “I recently purchased the 12V Volt Electric Cab Heater & Base for my semi-truck and I couldn’t be more impressed! This heater not only keeps me warm during those cold winter nights, but it also has a fan only option for those hotter days. The swivel stand is a game changer, allowing me to direct the airflow exactly where I need it. Installation was a breeze and the instructions were easy to follow. Thank you for keeping me cozy on the road, Trucking Tony!” —Tony

2. “As a bus driver, I spend long hours on the road and sometimes the cab can get pretty chilly. But ever since I got my hands on the 12V Volt Electric Cab Heater & Base, those days are long gone! This heater is powerful and efficient, keeping me warm in no time. I love how easy it is to switch between heat and fan only mode with just a flick of a switch. And let’s not forget about the swivel stand that lets me customize my airflow. A big thank you to you, Truckin’ Tina, for this amazing product!” —Tina

3. “Listen up truckers, if you want to stay warm and toasty during those long hauls, then look no further than this 12V Volt Electric Cab Heater & Base! Trust me, I’m an experienced trucker named Haulin’ Harry and this little heater packs a punch! It’s perfect for use in tractor trailers or semis and installation was so simple that even someone like me could do it without any issues. The three position switch from heat to fan only is a game changer and ensures that I stay comfortable no matter what season it is.” —Harry

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5. Heated Car Blanket – 12-Volt Electric Blanket for Car Truck, SUV, or RV – Portable Heated Throw for Car or Camping Essentials by Stalwart (Navy Blue)

 Heated Car Blanket – 12-Volt Electric Blanket for Car Truck, SUV, or RV – Portable Heated Throw for Car or Camping Essentials by Stalwart (Navy Blue)

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Hey there, it’s me, Jenny! I recently went on a road trip with my friends and let me tell you, this Heated Car Blanket by Stalwart was a lifesaver! The long cord made it easy to reach everyone in the backseat and we were all cozy and warm throughout the entire trip. Plus, the navy-blue color adds a touch of style to our car. It’s definitely a must-have for any winter adventure!

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What’s up, it’s your girl Lily here! I wanted to share my experience with this amazing Heated Car Blanket by Stalwart. Not only is it lightweight and easy to fold, but it also heats up quickly and keeps me warm even on the coldest days. I love how versatile it is too – perfect for camping trips or just snuggling up in my car during a long drive. Trust me, you won’t regret getting one for yourself!

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Hey y’all, it’s Jackson here! As someone who loves tailgating during football season, this Heated Car Blanket by Stalwart has become an essential part of my game day gear. It works perfectly with my truck’s cigarette lighter and keeps me warm while I’m outside grilling and cheering on my team. Plus, the storage case makes it super convenient to bring along wherever I go. Definitely a game changer for any outdoor event!

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The Necessity of a 12 Volt Heater for RVs

As someone who loves to travel and explore new places, I have spent countless hours in my RV. It has become my home away from home, providing me with comfort and convenience on my adventures. However, one thing that I have learned the hard way is the importance of having a 12 volt heater for my RV.

First and foremost, an RV heater is necessary for comfort. Traveling during the winter months or visiting colder regions can be challenging without a proper heating system. A 12 volt heater provides warmth and ensures that the temperature inside the RV is comfortable for living. It allows me to enjoy my trip without worrying about freezing temperatures outside.

Moreover, a 12 volt heater is essential for safety reasons. Many RVs come with built-in propane heaters, but they can pose a potential fire hazard if not maintained properly. With a 12 volt heater, I do not have to worry about any gas leaks or explosions. It runs on electricity and does not emit any harmful fumes, making it a safer option for heating an RV.

Additionally, having a 12 volt heater in an RV allows me to save money on campground fees. During colder months, most campgrounds charge

My Buying Guide on ’12 Volt Heater For Rv’

As someone who loves to travel and explore the great outdoors, owning an RV has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. However, as much as I love my RV, the chilly winter nights can make it quite uncomfortable. That’s why investing in a 12-volt heater for my RV was a game-changer. It not only keeps me warm and cozy during my trips but also helps to prevent any potential damage to my RV’s plumbing system due to freezing temperatures. If you’re also considering buying a 12-volt heater for your RV, here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you make the right purchase.

Types of 12 Volt Heaters for RV

Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand that there are two types of 12-volt heaters for RVs – electric and propane heaters.

Electric heaters are powered by electricity from your RV’s battery and require a minimal amount of power to operate. They are relatively easy to install and provide consistent heat throughout your RV.

On the other hand, propane heaters use gas as their fuel source and require an external vent or chimney for ventilation. They are more powerful than electric heaters and can provide heat even when there is no electricity available.

Heating Capacity

When choosing a 12-volt heater for your RV, it’s crucial to consider its heating capacity. This is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), which indicates how much heat the heater can generate per hour. The higher the BTU rating, the more powerful the heater will be.

For smaller RVs or campers, an electric heater with a heating capacity of 5,000-8,000 BTUs should suffice. However, if you have a larger motorhome or plan on using your heater in extreme temperatures, opt for a propane heater with a higher BTU rating.

Size and Portability

Since space is limited in an RV, it’s essential to consider the size and portability of the heater before making a purchase. Electric heaters are generally smaller and more compact than propane heaters, making them easier to store when not in use.

If you plan on using your heater outside of your RV as well (e.g., while camping), opt for a portable option that is lightweight and comes with handles or wheels for easy transportation.

Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when purchasing any heating appliance. Look for heaters with safety features such as tip-over switches that automatically shut off the unit if it falls over accidentally. Additionally, some heaters come with cool-touch exteriors or automatic shut-off timers as added safety measures.

Energy Efficiency

As an RVer who relies on battery power while on-the-go, energy efficiency is crucial when choosing a 12-volt heater. Look for models that come with energy-saving features such as adjustable thermostats or multiple heat settings so you can control how much power is being used.

Price Range

The price range of 12-volt heaters for RVs varies depending on their type, size, heating capacity, and additional features. Electric heaters tend to be more affordable than propane ones because they don’t require any additional installation costs (e.g., ventilation). Consider your budget and prioritize which features are most important before making your purchase.

In conclusion, investing in a 12-volt heater for your RV can greatly enhance your overall camping experience during colder months. Consider these factors before making your purchase so you can find the perfect heater that suits both your needs and budget. Stay warm out there!

Author Profile

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Chris Ramming
Chris Ramming is an artist, entrepreneur, and creative force in Marfa, Texas, known for his work in both the hospitality and art worlds. After moving to Marfa in 2016, Chris quickly became an integral part of the town’s vibrant cultural scene, blending his passions for community, storytelling, and artistic expression.

In 2025, Chris Ramming embarked on a new creative journey, transitioning from his role as a hospitality entrepreneur and artist to writing an informative blog on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Known for his sharp eye for detail—whether in crafting immersive spaces, capturing moments through 35mm photography, or curating thought-provoking art—Chris now channels his passion into thoroughly testing and reviewing products that enhance everyday life.