Are Portable Propane Heaters Safe In Campers & RVs?
Portable propane heaters that are made for indoor use are safe to use in RVs, campers and even tents.
To stay safe, an indoor propane heater must be used in an area with the proper amount of open space and no flammable objects nearby.
There also needs be a way for fresh air to get in and out. Without proper ventilation it’s not safe to use an indoor propane heater.
When using a small portable propane heater in your RV be sure to follow all the safety guidelines that come with the heater.
Check every connection for leaks with soapy water or a gas leak detector like this one by TopTes (click to view on Amazon) before lighting the heater.
Always be careful, especially when using small propane heaters around pets and children. Some have automatic shut-offs if they get knocked over, but you should never trust these safety features entirely.
Now, with all that out of the way, let’s get to the best small portable propane heater options for RVs, trailers, camping, outdoors… pretty much anywhere.
See Also: 6 Best Diesel Heaters For Campers, RVs & Vans
Summary (links to Amazon)
- Best Overall: Mr. Heater Buddy Indoor Safe Portable Propane Heater
- Most Portable: Mr. Heater Little Buddy Small Indoor Safe Propane Heater
- Best for Wall Mounting: ProCom ML100TPA-B Propane Infrared Space Heater
- Best Outdoor – Gasland Propane Radiant Heater
- Great for Permanent Installation – Mr. Heater Blue Flame Propane Heater
- Most Versatile – Mr. Heater Buddy Flex Heater
- Wind Protection – Panergy Portable Radiant Propane Heater
- Heater Stove Combo – Mozodawn Portable Propane Heater Stove Combo
Best Portable Indoor Propane Heaters
1. Mr. Heater Buddy Indoor Safe Portable Propane Heater
Main Features
- BTU Output: Adjustable between 4,000 and 9,000 BTU.
- Indoor/Outdoor Use: Designed for safe indoor and outdoor heating.
- Fuel Source: Compatible with 1 lb propane tanks; can connect to larger tanks with an adapter.
- Safety Features: Auto shut-off if tipped over, low oxygen shut-off sensor, and pilot light.
- Compact Design: Fold-down handle and lightweight (9 lbs).
- Portability: Ideal for RVs, tents, garages, and more.
- Wall Mountable: Can be mounted to save space.
- Long Runtime: Offers 2-3 hours on a 1 lb tank on high.
- High Altitude Capability: Functions up to 7,000 ft.
- CSA Certified: Meets industry safety standards.
Buy This If You
- Want reliable zero electricity heating with built-in safety features.
- Need a versatile propane heater for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Are looking for a medium sized, stable portable propane heater.
- Want to be able to connect to both small and large propane tanks.
- Need something that’s also wall-mountable for saving space in small areas like RVs.
Don’t Buy This If You
- Don’t have the necessary space for a propane heater of this size
- Want something super lightweight and compact.
- Don’t have proper ventilation.
- Are in a tiny RV or tent. Heat output might be too intense for smaller enclosed spaces, even on low settings.
My Thoughts
Mr. Heater is the industry leader when it comes to safe indoor propane heaters and for good reason. I’ve used this exact heater in my own trailer on many cold days and it works great.
It’s built to be used with a 1 lb propane tank but if you get this hose (click to view on Amazon) you can connect it to a 20 lbs or even 30 lbs propane tank.
It works great in an RV, van, tent, pop-up camper, camping shelter, hunting blind, or garage. I like how stable it stands compared to smaller options.
Remember to have some sort of ventilation (open a window) and always make sure the propane heater has a safe amount of empty space around it.
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Mr. Heater Little Buddy Small Indoor Safe Propane Heater
Main Features
- BTU Output: 3,800 BTU/hr, ideal for small spaces.
- Indoor/Outdoor Use: Suitable for both, including tents, cabins, and RVs.
- Run Time: Can run for approximately 5.5 hours on a 1 lb propane cylinder.
- Safety Shut-Off: Automatically shuts off if tipped over or detects low oxygen.
- Compact Size: Portable and lightweight for easy transport.
- Easy Start: Simple push-button ignition.
- Heating Capacity: Heats up to 95 square feet.
- Quiet Operation: Ideal for quiet spaces like hunting blinds or tents.
- Fuel Source: Uses standard 1 lb propane canisters.
- CSA Certified: Meets safety standards for indoor use.
- High Altitude Capability: Works up to 7,000 ft.
Buy This If You
- Need a compact, portable heater for small spaces like tents or RVs.
- Prefer quiet operation for camping, hunting blinds, or cabins.
- Want a heater with built-in safety features (auto shut-off for tip-overs or low oxygen).
- Are looking for a heater that runs on small 1 lb propane tanks.
- Require a long runtime of up to 5.5 hours.
Don’t Buy This If You
- Need to heat a large space (above 95 sq ft).
- Prefer using larger propane tanks for extended heating.
- Need a more powerful BTU output for extreme cold conditions.
- Can’t ensure proper indoor ventilation for safe use.
- Need to wall mount or require a very stable standing propane heater.
My Thoughts
The Mr. Heater Little Buddy is a smaller version of the Buddy heater reviewed above.It’s a fantastic tool for heating tents, vans, small trailers, or just keeping a room in your home or area in your RV extra toasty.
It’s a tank top propane heater, and although most other LP heaters of this kind are not indoor safe, the Little Buddy heater is.
The Little Buddy propane heater can only be used with a 1 lb propane tank which means it will run for around 5.5 hours in total.
If you use this LP heater with 1 lb propane tanks often, it can be annoying having to buy a new tank every time and trying to figure out how to recycle or dispose of the old one.
I suggest getting a refillable 1 lb propane tank with a refill kit like the Mr. Heater Fuel Keg (click to view on Amazon).
If saving space is your main goal you can’t go wrong with the Mr. Heater Little Buddy.
3. ProCom ML100TPA-B Propane Infrared Space Heater
Main Features
- BTU Output: 10,000 BTU for powerful heating.
- Dual Fuel Options: Natural gas and propane versions available.
- Ventless: No need for an external vent.
- Thermostatic Control: Allows for automatic temperature regulation.
- Coverage: Can heat up to 500 square feet.
- Infrared Technology: Heats objects and people directly.
- Oxygen Depletion Sensor: Shuts off if oxygen levels drop.
- Battery Ignition: No electricity required for ignition.
- Wall-Mountable: Saves floor space.
- CSA Certified: Meets safety standards.
Buy This If You
- Appreciate thermostat-controlled heating.
- Prefer an energy-efficient infrared heating system.
- Need a heater with built-in safety features.
- Want something that can stand or be wall mounted.
- Don’t mind getting some extra parts for RV use.
Don’t Buy This If You
- Require a more portable or movable heater.
- Need a heater for small or confined spaces.
- Want something that’s easy to take outside.
- Need a 1 lb propane tank compatible heater.
- Don’t want to do any installation.
My Thoughts
The ProCom ventless propane space heater is a fantastic option for RV, garage, and tiny home use. I don’t recommend it for tents, unless it’s a more structured tent like a yurt or wall tent.
It’s still technically a portable propane heater because it can be free standing on the included legs, but it works best as an installed wall mounted infrared heater.
It won’t work with a 1 lb propane tank and you’ll need to get a hose and propane regulator to use it with a 20 lbs propane tank.
Larger 20,000 and 25,000 BTU size options are available.
See Also: Best Portable Power Station/Solar Generator For Camping
4. Gasland Propane Radiant Heater
Main Features
- BTU Output: 4,000 to 18,000 BTU adjustable.
- Portable Design: Large but wheeled for easy transport.
- Multiple Uses: Ideal for workshops, garages, construction sites, and outdoor use.
- Fuel Source: Runs on standard propane cylinders.
- Regulator Included: Ensures consistent pressure.
- Piezo Ignition: Easy, quick startup.
- Safety Shut-Off: Automatically turns off when overheated or tipped over.
- Durable Build: Designed for tough environments.
- Adjustable Heat Settings: Three levels of heat control.
- CSA Certified: Complies with safety standards.
Buy This If You
- Need a heater mostly for outdoor spaces.
- Want a portable propane heater that carries a 20 lbs propane tank.
- Require adjustable heat settings for different needs.
- Prefer built-in safety features like auto shut-off.
- Don’t mind installing a hose for indoor use.
Don’t Buy This If You
- Need a heater for small, enclosed indoor spaces like tents.
- Require a heater for high-altitudes.
- Want to use a 1 lb propane tank.
- Want to use it indoors without installing a hose.
- Need something small and easy to store.
My Thoughts
The Gasland is a cabinet style propane radiant heater that can be used outdoors and indoors with the installation of a propane hose.
It’s only made to attach to larger propane tanks that are 20 lbs and up. Propane tanks larger than 1 lb are technically not allowed inside living spaces.
To use it inside your RV you’ll need to run a hose from the propane heater to a propane tank outside.
There is a shelf for the tank in the back of the radiant propane heater which means you can wheel everything around and transport it easily when it’s being used outside.
Overall this is a fantastic option for using in sheds, garages and outdoors. But it can be used in an RV if you use a long propane hose.
See Also: Best Remote Start Generators – Portable & Inverter
5. Mr. Heater Vent-Free Radiant Propane Heater
Main Features
- BTU Output: 10,000 BTU for small space heating.
- Vent-Free Design: No need for external venting.
- Thermostat Control: Automatic temperature regulation.
- Dual Installation: Can be wall-mounted or used freestanding.
- Infrared Heating: Heats objects and people directly.
- Oxygen Depletion Sensor: Safety feature for automatic shut-off.
- Piezo Ignition: Quick and easy start.
- Propane-Powered: Runs on standard propane.
- CSA Certified: Meets safety standards.
Buy This If You
- Need to heat small spaces up to 250 sq ft.
- Want a dual-use heater (freestanding or wall-mounted).
- Require thermostat-controlled, efficient heating.
- Value built-in safety features like oxygen depletion sensors.
- Don’t need an outdoor propane heater.
Don’t Buy This If You
- Require a portable or compact heater.
- Need something that works well outdoors and indoors.
- Don’t want to install a propane line.
- Want something that’s 1 lb propane tank compatible.
- Need a high elevation compatible heater (over 4,500 feet).
My Thoughts
The Mr. Heater vent free radiant propane heater is one that is slightly less portable because of its size, but it still stands on its own and can be moved if necessary.
It’s not the best propane heater for tents, but it’s perfect for campers, RVs, garages, and homes.
Unlike other Mr. Heater propane heaters, this does not have a tip-over shut off which means you need to be careful around it.
I recommend wall mounting but it comes with large feet that make it very stable. You’ll need to install a propane line to use it indoors, but once it’s set up you’ll have efficient, quiet heating for cold weather camping.
See Also: How Cold Can It Get Before I Need To Winterize My RV?
6. Mr. Heater Buddy Flex Propane Heater
Main Features
- BTU Output: 11,000 BTU maximum.
- 180-Degree Heat: Omni-directional, radiates heat 180 degrees up to 275 square feet.
- Portable Design: Lightweight and compact for easy transport.
- Tip-Over Protection: Automatic shut-off for added safety.
- Wind-Resistant Burner: Keeps flame steady in outdoor conditions.
- Quick Start Ignition: Easy to start with a single push.
- Adjustable Heat Settings: Allows for precise temperature control.
- Fuel Source: Operates on 1 lb propane cylinders.
- CSA Certified: Meets safety standards.
- Accessory Port: Connects to and powers the Buddy Flex Cooker (click to view on Amazon)
Buy This If You
- Need a portable heater for outdoor or indoor use.
- Want 180-degree heat distribution.
- Appreciate safety features like tip-over shut-off.
- Require a durable heater for harsh conditions.
- Want flexibility with adjustable heat settings.
- Like that it connects to the Mr. Heater Buddy Flex Cooker.
Don’t Buy This If You
- Need a heater for large indoor areas.
- Prefer a wall-mounted or stationary heater.
- Live in high-altitude regions where performance may be limited (over 4,500 feet).
- Want something that easily connects to larger propane tanks.
My Thoughts
The Mr. Heater Buddy Flex is a new design for more versatile heating and use with other Mr. Heater products.
Unlike the classic Mr. Heater Buddy, the Flex has a more open heating element that heats a 180 degree area. The altitude rating is slightly lower than the Buddy heater, 4,500 feet instead of 7,000.
The main draw to this portable indoor/outdoor propane heater is it’s ability to connect with the new Buddy Flex Cooker.
The Buddy Flex cooker is a propane powered camp stove that connects to the bottom of the flex for easy storage. You don’t have to have to cooker to use the Flex heater, but it’s a cool gadget you can combine with the heater for a full cold weather camping setup.
See Also: Best Propane Camping Stoves – From Small To Large
7. Panergy Portable Propane Radiant Heater
Main Features
- BTU Output: 6,000-7,000 BTU.
- Portable Design: Compact and lightweight for outdoor use.
- Tip-Over Protection: Safety shut-off feature for added protection.
- Piezo Ignition: Easy start-up with push-button ignition.
- Adjustable Heat Control: Allows for precise temperature settings.
- Fuel Source: Compatible with standard propane cylinders.
- Stainless Steel Build: Durable for outdoor conditions.
- Wind-Resistant Burner: Flame stays steady in windy conditions.
- CSA Certified: Meets safety standards.
- Elevation Usage: Unknown but most likely not for high elevation over 4,500 feet.
Buy This If You
- Need a portable outdoor heater.
- Value built-in safety features like tip-over shut-off.
- Want a durable heater for outdoor and indoor environments.
- Appreciate adjustable heat control.
- Require wind-resistant heating.
Don’t Buy This If You
- Need high BTU output for large spaces.
- Want a vented or stationary heater.
- Live or camp in high elevations.
My Thoughts
This portable propane heater follows the classic design you’ll find in most camping stores. It’s stable, can be used indoors with proper ventilation and has the most importable basic safety features.
There’s not a ton of heat adjustment, the low is 6,000 BTU and hight 7,500 BTU. If you have a small camper this might be too powerful.
For cold winter camping it should work fantastic for small to medium sized RVs.
It’s very similar to other portable propane heaters in this review but one thing that makes it stick out slightly is the optimized wind protection for outdoor use.
6. Mozodawn 2 in 1 Propane Heater Stove Combo
Main Features
- BTU Output: 3,000-8,000 BTU.
- Compact Design: Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Multi-Use: Great for camping, outdoor events, and emergency heating.
- Adjustable Heat: Provides customizable temperature control.
- Tip-Over Protection: Automatic safety shut-off.
- Piezo Ignition: Easy push-button start.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Durable for outdoor environments.
- Wind-Resistant Burner: Ensures stable heat in windy conditions.
- Propane-Powered: Runs on standard propane tanks.
- CSA Certified: Complies with safety standards.
Buy This If You
- Need a lightweight, portable heater for camping or outdoor use.
- Want adjustable heat control.
- Prefer built-in safety features like tip-over protection.
- Require a heater that withstands outdoor conditions.
- Want a propane heater that is also a stove.
Don’t Buy This If You
- Want a high-powered unit with more than 8,000 BTU.
- Need a wall-mounted or stationary heater.
- Need a fast heating stove.
- Want a propane heater with propane tank cylinder housing.
My Thoughts
The Mozodawn portable propane heater stove combo is a fantastic option for van and tent campers who want a multi-use heating gadget.
Because the top of the heater gets so hot, I don’t recommend it for small tents, but for large tents, RVs, vans, garages, and using outdoors, it’s a great choice.
I like that it’s multi use and very portable. It’s not a super powerful stove, but it works and its a fun option for saving space.
What To Look For In A Small Propane Heater For RVs & Indoors
Propane Tank Size
A big thing to look for in a small propane heater for your RV, van, camper, or tent is what kinds of propane tanks are they compatible with.
According to America’s NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) regulations, it’s not allowed to bring any propane tanks larger than 1 lb indoors.
Many people still do it, but it’s not recommended.
You could potentially get in trouble for it if there is a fire and they find out you had a large propane tank inside.
There are a few ways you can work around this for RV and even home use.
The first way is to just use a 1 lb propane tank.
Many of the small propane heaters on this list are compatible with 1 lb propane tanks and it makes them even more portable.
You can even get refillable 1 lb propane tanks you can fill up yourself with this Flame King Refill Kit (click to view on Amazon).
It’s safe and follows regulations for using propane tanks indoors.
Another thing you can do is get an extra long propane hose (click to view on Amazon) and run it from outside your RV or home to inside.
You could also have a professional run a permanent LP gas line inside your home or RV.
That gives you the choice of using a small portable propane heater or even a ventless wall mount one.
Once you decide on what size of propane tank you want to use and how you are going to get the propane into your camper or home, make sure the propane heater you get is compatible with your set up.
Maximum & Minimum BTUs
Propane heaters put out a lot more heat than electric ones.
You may not need a great big one to heat your entire RV, garage, or rooms in your home.
Even the tiny and very portable Mr. Heater Little Buddy puts out some serious heat and could make a small space too warm.
I’ve used the Mr. Heater Buddy propane heater like the one at the top of this review in my own 32 foot travel trailer.
Once the trailer heats up, even the lowest setting keeps the trailer warm.
See Also: 6 Fun RV Comforters & Bedspreads For The Camper Or Home
Sometimes in chilly but not freezing weather a more mellow heater like the Camco Olympian RV Wave-3 would be a better option, even in a big RV like mine.
The BTU output also affects the amount of propane used.
If you have access to a large tank then getting a high BTU propane heater might work for you.
If you boondock/dry camp a lot and only have two #20 or #30 propane tanks a propane heater that is more efficient and has a lower BTU output might be a better option.
Safety Features
There are all sorts of safety features on propane heaters, especially the small portable ones that aren’t secured to anything.
Many of the ones in this review have low oxygen sensors.
These are very common for ventless propane heaters.
If there isn’t enough ventilation, oxygen levels will get low as the burner uses it up and replaces it with carbon dioxide.
This sounds scary but indoor propane heaters are safe so long as there is enough ventilation in the area.
All you need to do is make sure you leave a window cracked or a door open to allow airflow.
Better airflow also helps propane heaters heat more efficiently.
Low oxygen sensors are so sensitive and good at what they do they often stop propane heaters from working at high elevations.
If you live over 5,000 feet you may want to consider getting a propane heater without a low oxygen sensor.
Otherwise, it might instantly activate and stop you from lighting the burner.
The tip-over shut off is another great safety feature you will find on some of the smaller propane heaters in this review.
It’s not a must have, but it does give peace of mind. Especially if you have pets or kids.
Most of the best propane heaters will have a safety shut off that will stop propane from flowing if the burner doesn’t ignite or the pilot goes out.
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Conclusion & My Recommendations For Small Portable Indoor RV Propane Heaters
Even in the mellowest of climates, chilly mornings are going to follow you everywhere.
It’s especially hard when you are camping in an RV, van, or tent because normally it’s the same temperature inside as it is outside when you first wake up.
Small portable indoor propane heaters are a fantastic way to warm up in the morning without having to use any electricity.
Portable propane heaters are always ventless.
Most are compatible with 1 lb propane tanks, which means you don’t need to do any kind of installation if you don’t want to.
See Also: Best Heated Water Hoses For RV Campers, Barns & Livestock
Deciding on the one that’s best for you is easy once you know what you want to use it for, and the size of the area you want to use it in.
If you camp in a van, tent, or small camper you are going to want a small portable propane heater like the Mr. Heater Little Buddy.
If you want a heater that works well indoors and outdoors a slightly larger but still portable heater like the Mr. Heater Buddy is a great option.
If you want an extremely efficient propane heater for inside the RV that has the option to wall mount some of the larger options will be best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portable Propane Heaters
How many BTUs is a gallon of propane?
One gallon of propane is 91,502 BTUs of energy.
How many pounds is a gallon of propane?
One gallon of propane weighs 4.2 lbs.
How many BTUs are in a 1 lb propane tank?
There are about 21,000 BTUs in a 1 lb propane tank.
Is it safe to leave a portable propane heater on at night?
Portable propane heaters are generally safe but like any small space heater, they have their risks.
I don’t recommend leaving one on at night but the end decision is up to you and how safely positioned the propane heater is.
If you have pets or children you should never leave the heater running at night or unattended.
If you plan on using a portable propane heater for overnight heating, use it plenty during the day first.
That way you’ll know if it has any problems and that the heater runs well in the space you have chosen.
Also, always have a tested carbon monoxide detector nearby.
Are portable propane heaters ok to use indoors?
A portable propane heater is only safe to use indoors if it is made for indoor use.
You should always have some sort of ventilation whenever using any propane appliance inside.
Heaters that go on the top of the propane tank (tank top heaters) are generally never safe to use indoors unless specifically made for indoor use like the Mr. Heater Little Buddy reviewed above.
Be sure to follow all of the safety instructions for your specific portable propane heater and always have a propane detector nearby at all times.
What is the smallest propane heater?
The Little Buddy by Mr. Heater (click to view on Amazon) is one of the smallest portable propane heaters on the market today.
You can read more information about it in the reviews section at the beginning of this article or check out the full review here (click to view).
Do you need ventilation when using an indoor ventless propane heater?
Yes, you always need to have ventilation when using any indoor propane product especially if it’s ventless like portable propane heaters.
Because they burn oxygen and have some emissions, they introduce a carbon monoxide risk if not properly vented.
That is why you should always have a propane detector nearby at all times.
When using a ventless propane heater in an RV, van, or tent you can usually achieve proper ventilation by partially opening a window.
Because RVs have a lot of propane appliances it’s recommended to always have at least one window cracked to allow some ventilation at all times.
Also, always make sure your carbon monoxide sensor is in working condition.
Can a portable propane heater be used in a tent, hunting blind, or camping shelter?
Yes, if the propane heater is rated for indoor use, has enough open space to run safely, and is used carefully it can be used inside a tent, hunting blind, or camping shelter.
Just make sure you always leave a window open enough for proper ventilation and use a propane detector alarm.
What does the low oxygen sensor on a portable propane heater do?
Propane heaters burn oxygen.
If you use one in a closed space that doesn’t have any ventilation or airflow, your heater will eventually eat up all the oxygen in the air.
No oxygen in the air is not good for humans, and it’s hard for your body to tell when oxygen levels in the air are getting low.
The low oxygen sensors on propane heaters test the air and will shut off the burner and gas if the levels start to get too low.
It’s a neat safety feature and a good one to have, especially for indoor or RV propane heaters.
That being said you should never 100% trust any of the safety features. Nothing is perfect and sometimes these features fail.
Always make sure there is plenty of airflow and ventilation in any space you are using a propane appliance.
This ensures the oxygen levels will stay safe.
What is more efficient an electric space heater or small propane heater in an RV?
It really depends on how much your electricity costs and how much propane is.
If you’re boondocking and don’t have access to very much electricity, you are going to want to use a portable propane heater because they don’t use any electricity.
They also use way less propane than the built-in RV furnace.
Catalytic heaters put out a lot of warm radiant heat and they use hardly any propane.
Price-wise they may even be more economical than an electric space heater in the long run.
A standard blue flame or radiant propane heater might not be as efficient as an electric space heater.
They put out more heat and are better for large spaces.
If you are comparing a small space heater with a small propane heater the price difference for energy isn’t that much.
How much propane does a portable propane heater use?
It depends a lot on the size and style.
A catalytic propane heater uses hardly any propane while a regular blue flame or radiant propane heater that has a flame can use quite a bit.
If you look at the table at the beginning of this review, it will tell you the max run time on 1 lb of propane for each of the 6 best portable indoor propane heaters in this review.
How to duct or vent a portable propane heater
Portable propane heaters rated for indoor use are ventless and do not need ducting, that’s what makes them portable.
That being said you should always have some ventilation in the area you are using the heater.
Normally cracking a window or door creates enough ventilation for a small propane heater.
How long does a Buddy heater run on a small propane tank?
The Mr. Heater Buddy will run for around 5.5 hours at the lowest setting and 2.4 hours at the highest setting when connected to a small 1 lb propane tank.
The Mr. Heater Little Buddy only has one heat setting and will run for around 6 hours on a small 1 lb propane tank.
Have any more questions about portable propane heaters for indoor or RV use? Leave a comment below.
