Best Gas Caravan Heaters in Australia (2026 Guide)

This guide is written to share my findings when researching the best gas caravan heater when building our caravan. I am a cold frog and prefer a warm space rather than wearing many layers of clothing to keep warm.

As we’ve found recently, It can be hard to keep warm when caravanning in the colder months or when the temperature drops unexpectedly (we’re looking at you, Tassie!). And especially if you’re not used to cold weather.

Caravanning in winter can be a lot of fun, but ensuring you’re prepared for the colder weather is important. Temperatures can drop quickly, and it can be hard to keep warm without the right gear.

A gas caravan heater is a must-have for any caravanner in winter. Not only will it keep you warm, but it will also help to reduce condensation inside your caravan.

Caravan gas heaters are a great way to keep warm while on the road. There are many different types of gas heater brands available. However, the standard camping gas heaters are not suitable for inside a caravan due to safety issues. They are fine outdoors but not in the confined space inside a van.

I always like to provide reviews and comparisons about the best gear for 4x4s, caravanning and camping. However, when researching caravan gas heaters on the market, I found only the Truma gas heaters for caravans. The main built-in LPG options available to Australian caravanners are heat-only systems such as the Truma VarioHeat Eco and combined heating and hot-water systems such as the Truma Combi 4E.

If you are looking for a quick answer to the best gas caravan heater click here

We made one mistake when building our Urban Caravan: we didn’t install a heater! I had researched to find the best heater for a caravan. I researched the best diesel heater for a caravan and wrote this guide for the best gas heaters for caravans; however, we still didn’t have one installed!

Of course, we will correct that mistake and look at caravan gas heating, as we already have gas onboard. We have a Nissan Y62 Patrol which runs on petrol. Therefore, we’d prefer not to carry diesel for a diesel heater and not to carry another fuel type, adding to the overall weight of our caravan. We think the best caravan heating system for our set-up is an LPG gas heaters for caravans.

Comparing the Best Gas Caravan Heaters in Australia

When comparing gas caravan heaters, there are a few things you need to take into account:

• The size of the caravan gas heater
• The type of gas heater
• The power output of the gas caravan heater
• Whether the caravan gas heater has an automatic or manual ignition
• How safe is the gas heater in the caravan
• How easy the gas heater caravan is to use
• The gas heater price

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start to compare the different gas caravan heaters on the market. We will cover all the items mentioned below.

Who this guide is for

This guide is for:

• Caravanners and camper owners travelling Australia in cooler months
• People who want a built-in heating solution without carrying extra fuel types
• Anyone comparing gas vs diesel heaters
• Caravanners and campervan owners comparing heater output, installation requirements and fuel options

When a gas heater actually makes sense

A gas caravan heater is most useful when you already carry LPG and want a built-in, reliable heat source that doesn’t rely on large electrical draws or additional fuel types. Even caravanners who generally follow warmer weather can encounter cold nights in alpine regions, Tasmania, inland deserts, and during shoulder seasons.

Gas heaters are often chosen because they provide steady, dry heat inside the van with minimal fuss, integrate with existing gas systems, and don’t require a high-draw electrical supply. For many caravanners, especially those who use gas for cooking and hot water, adding a gas heater is a logical extension of existing gear rather than carrying diesel or electric-only options.

Best Caravan Heater Gas Comparison Chart

The table below compares top gas caravan heaters available in Australia, including compact heaters, multi-function heater/water units, and portable options.

Brand	Type	Heating Output	Power	Weight	Best for	Check Price	Features	Consider	Rating
Truma VarioHeat Eco Gas Heater Kit with Black Cowl	Built-in LPG ducted air heater	1.3kW and 2.8kW	LPG with 12V controls and fan	Approximately 5.5kg for the heater	Caravanners wanting a compact heat-only system	CHECK PRICE	CP Plus controls, boost mode, night mode and flexible installation	No hot-water function and the electric E-Kit is optional	⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Truma Combi 4E	Combined space and water heater	Approximately 4kW gas output with electric heating elements	LPG, 240V electricity or mixed mode	Approximately 16.2kg without water	New caravan builds requiring heating and hot water	CHECK PRICE	Four air outlets, gas/electric operation and independent water heating	Higher price, weight and installation requirements	⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Best Gas Caravan Heaters in Australia

• Truma VarioHeat Eco Gas Heater Kit with Black Cowl
• Truma Combi 4E Gas and Electric Heater

How To Choose the Best Gas Heater For Caravan Australia

Types of Caravan Gas Heaters

There are many different types of gas heaters on the market, but the most common ones caravaners look for are the following. However, we must note most portable gas heaters are not recommended for use indoors inside caravans or tents.

• Radiant gas caravan heaters
• Propane gas caravan heaters
• LPG gas caravan heaters
• Portable gas caravan heaters

Radiant Gas Heaters

Radiant gas caravan heaters are the most popular type of gas heater. They are small, lightweight, easy to use, and generate a lot of heat. They can be used in gas and electric modes, making them ideal for camping.

Radiant gas caravan heaters are small, lightweight, easy to use, and generate a lot of heat. They can be used in gas and electric modes, making them ideal for camping.

Pros:

• Small and lightweight
• It generates a lot of heat
• It can be used in gas or electric mode

Cons:

• Not suitable for caravans with an LPG gas system

Propane Gas Heaters

Propane gas caravan heaters can be used as a gas heaters for caravans. They are larger than radiant gas heaters, but they generate more heat. They can only be used with LPG gas, so if your caravan doesn’t have an LPG gas system, you won’t be able to use this type of heater.

Your caravan is heated with a propane heater that has a thermostat. Liquid fuel is kept in a tank and then ignited manually or automatically. In propane caravan heaters, the output heat is measured in BTUs rather than watts, as with ceramic, infrared, or oil heating equipment.

Pros:

• It generates a lot of heat
• It can only be used with LPG gas

Cons:

• Larger than radiant gas heaters
• Not suitable for caravans without an LPG gas system

LPG Gas Caravan Heaters

LPG gas caravan heaters are the most common gas heater for caravans. They are larger than radiant gas heaters, but they generate more heat. They can only be used with LPG gas, so if your caravan doesn’t have an LPG gas system, you won’t be able to use this type of heater.

The LGP gas heaters, also known as “sub-atmospheric” or “superlight,” draw in the air via an external intake pipe for the internal combustion process, where it is combined with LP gas. During this procedure, the gas is ignited and the large surface area of the heat exchanger is heated.

Pros:

• It generates a lot of heat
• It can only be used with LPG gas

Cons:

• Larger than radiant gas heaters
• Not suitable for caravans without an LPG gas system

Portable Gas Caravan Heaters

Portable gas caravan heaters are popular for caravanners who like to move heat around their van. They are small and lightweight, running on butane gas canisters, which means you can use them anywhere. However, they don’t generate much heat, so they’re not ideal for use in cold weather.

Pros:

• Small and lightweight
• It can be used anywhere

Cons:

• It doesn’t generate a lot of heat
• Not suitable for use in cold weather

Size of Gas Heater For Caravan or Camping

When choosing a gas heater for your caravan, it’s essential to consider the size of the heater and the space you have available.

It’s also important to consider the heating output of your gas heater. A gas heater with a low heating output is not ideal for cold weather, while a gas heater with a high heating output is perfect for keeping you warm during winter camping trips.

Weight of Caravan Gas Heater

It’s essential to consider the heater’s weight, as with anything to do with caravanning and camping. Small and lightweight heaters are much easier to move around than larger and heavier ones. If you’re planning on travelling with your caravan, it’s essential to choose a lightweight gas heater.

Another factor to consider when choosing a gas caravan heater is the weight of the gas canisters. Some heaters run on butane gas canisters, while others run on propane gas canisters. Butane gas canisters are lighter than propane gas canisters, so if you’re looking for a portable gas heater, it’s important to choose one that runs on them.

Naturally, the gas heaters in caravans that are permanently installed will tap into the gas bottles if you also cook with gas.

Quality of Caravan Gas Heaters

It’s also important to consider the quality of the heater. A gas heater of poor quality may not be safe to use in a caravan. It’s important to choose a gas heater certified by an accredited testing laboratory, such as the Australian Gas Association (AGA).

The AGA is a not-for-profit organisation that represents the gas industry in Australia. It is accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), the peak body for product certification in Australia. NATA accreditation ensures that products meet the highest quality and safety standards.

It’s also essential to choose a gas caravan heater that is made from high-quality materials. A gas heater made from low-quality materials may not be safe to use or last long.

When purchasing a gas caravan heater, it’s essential to make sure that you buy from a reputable manufacturer. A gas heater manufactured by a reputable company is likely to be of high quality and safe to use.

Other Considerations

Please don’t be tempted to install a caravan gas heater unless you are a qualified and licenced gas fitter. If you are buying a caravan new and having it built, don’t make our mistake and leave it off your mods list. Consider having one installed in your build. Your and your family’s safety is worth the few extra dollars it may cost to have a professional install.

Best Gas Heater Reviews Australia

Truma VarioHeat Eco Gas Heater Kit with Black Cowl Review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Best for: Caravanners and campervan owners who want a compact, permanently installed LPG heater.

The Truma VarioHeat Eco is a lightweight ducted gas heater designed for caravans, campervans and motorhomes.

It provides two gas heating outputs, 1.3kW and 2.8kW, allowing the heater to adjust its output according to the temperature selected on the CP Plus digital control panel.

The boost mode increases airflow to warm the caravan quickly, while night mode runs the fan at a quieter setting during sleep.

Its compact design allows it to be installed horizontally or vertically in various locations. This is useful in caravans where storage space and payload are already limited.

The current kit includes the VarioHeat Eco heater, CP Plus control panel, installation components, ducting, warm-air outlet and black exterior cowl.

Features include:

• 1.3kW and 2.8kW gas heating outputs
• Compact and lightweight design
• Approximately 5.5kg heater weight
• LPG heating with 12V controls and fan
• CP Plus digital control panel
• Automatic temperature regulation
• Boost mode for faster heating
• Night mode for quieter operation
• Flexible horizontal or vertical installation
• Ducted warm-air outlet
• Black exterior cowl
• Two-year manufacturer warranty

Things to consider

The standard VarioHeat Eco kit is a gas heater. It does not provide 240V electric heating unless the optional Truma E-Kit is purchased and installed separately.

The heater must be installed by appropriately qualified professionals. Gas connections, electrical wiring, combustion air, exhaust placement and clearances all need to comply with the relevant requirements.

Installation costs, additional ducting and extra warm-air outlets may add considerably to the final price.

The Truma VarioHeat Eco heats the caravan interior only. It does not heat water, so caravanners wanting one unit for heating and hot water should consider the Truma Combi 4E instead.

The Truma VarioHeat Eco is a strong option for caravanners who already carry LPG and want efficient ducted heating without adding a separate diesel fuel supply.

Check the current price and specifications for the Truma VarioHeat Eco

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Truma Combi 4E Gas and Electric Heater Review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Best for: Caravanners who want one installed unit to provide both space heating and hot water.

The Truma Combi 4E combines a caravan space heater and a 10-litre hot-water system in one unit.

It can operate using LPG, 240V electricity or a combination of gas and electricity. This allows caravanners to use gas while camping off-grid, electric heating at a powered site or mixed mode when faster heating is required.

Warm air is distributed around the caravan through four ducted outlets. The water and space-heating functions can be operated together or separately, including heating water during warmer months without warming the caravan.

The Combi 4E is larger and heavier than a heat-only unit, but combining two appliances may save installation space compared with fitting separate heating and hot-water systems.

Features include:

• Combined space heating and 10-litre hot-water system
• LPG, 240V electric and mixed operating modes
• Approximately 4kW gas heating output
• Integrated electric heating elements
• Four ducted warm-air outlets
• Independent or combined water and space heating
• Digital CP Plus control panel
• Suitable for small and medium caravans and motorhomes
• Compact installation for a combined appliance
• Two-year manufacturer warranty

Things to consider

The Combi 4E is considerably heavier and more expensive than a heat-only gas heater.

It also requires enough installation space for the unit, ducting, water connections, gas connection, 12V controls, 240V supply and exterior cowl.

Professional installation is required, and the total fitted cost may be substantially higher than the advertised appliance price.

Caravanners who already have a suitable hot-water system may not receive enough benefit from replacing it with a combined unit. In that situation, a heat-only model such as the VarioHeat Eco may be more practical.

The Truma Combi 4E is best suited to new caravan builds or major renovations where one integrated heating and hot-water system can be planned from the beginning.

Click here for the 2E Truma gas heater price and more information *At the time of writing, this model is out-of-stock

Check the official Truma specifications and speak with an authorised installer about availability

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Safety Matters with Gas Heaters

Gas heaters can be safe and effective when installed and used correctly, but improper installation or poor ventilation can be dangerous. 

Always have a certified gas fitter install your heater, follow manufacturer instructions, and ensure good airflow and ventilation. Accredited heaters meeting Australian safety standards are far preferable to cheap or untested units. 

Prioritising safety helps prevent carbon monoxide build-up and other hazards in enclosed caravan spaces.

Portable outdoor gas heaters must never be operated inside a caravan, camper, tent or other enclosed sleeping area unless the manufacturer expressly certifies that exact product and setup for that use.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Gas heater vs diesel heater — what’s the difference?

There are a few key differences when deciding between a caravan gas heater and a caravan diesel heater. Caravan gas heaters typically use either propane or butane as their fuel source, while caravan diesel heaters use… you guessed it, diesel!

This can be an essential consideration if you use your heater while travelling, as you must ensure you have the correct fuel type on hand. Diesel is usually more suitable if you have a diesel 4×4, as you may already carry a Jerry Can or two for travelling longer distances.

Some caravanners complain about the ticking of a diesel heater, and some people don’t like to use gas at all from a safety perspective.

Ultimately, the best heater for your caravan will depend on your needs, caravan and 4WD set-up and preferences. Either would qualify as a great off-grid heater for a caravan.

How do caravan gas heaters work?

Caravan gas heaters use a small amount of gas to generate heat. The gas is ignited, and the resulting flame heats up a metal plate or element. The combustion air and hot air are mixed in the heat exchanger and routed to the atmosphere through the exhaust duct and cowl.

Are caravan gas heaters safe?

Yes, when installed and used correctly, caravan gas heaters are safe to use. Modern gas heaters are designed with safety features like sealed combustion and automatic shut-offs. The biggest risks stem from poor installation, inadequate ventilation, or improper maintenance of the heater, which is why professional installation and a functioning carbon monoxide alarm are essential.

What size gas heater do I need?

The right size depends more on how and where you travel than on your van’s exact size. Smaller gas heaters may be sufficient for well-insulated caravans and milder conditions, while caravanners heading into alpine areas, Tasmania or colder inland regions may need greater heating capacity. Oversizing isn’t better as it can lead to inefficient cycling and unnecessary gas use. Make sure to discuss heater sizing and installation with an authorised supplier or installer rather than relying only on caravan length.

How often should I have my caravan gas heater serviced?

Your caravan gas heater should be serviced at least once a year by a qualified and licensed gas fitter. This will help keep it in good working order and ensure it is safe.

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Wrap Up

If you are caravanning in winter and are a cold frog like me, a gas caravan heater or diesel caravan heater might be a must-have inclusion for you. If you are buying a caravan new and having it built, then we would recommend including the fitting of a gas or diesel heater in your initial build.

Choosing a heater is part of planning your off-grid power and comfort — see our Big Lap home base planning content for more.

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