Gas vs Electric Heating Costs for Campervans
Heating is the biggest energy cost in a campervan. Here is the real running cost comparison for UK conditions.
Cost Per Day (6 hours heating in winter)
Diesel heater (2kW): 0.1L diesel per hour. £1.60/L diesel. Cost per day: £0.96. Cost per month: £28.80. LPG gas heater (Propex): 100g per hour. £1.20/kg LPG. Cost per day: £0.72. Cost per month: £21.60. Electric hookup (2kW fan heater): £0.30/kWh. Cost per day: £3.60. Cost per month: £108. Electric from battery (via inverter): Impractical for more than 1 hour. A 2kW heater draws 166A at 12v.
Verdict
Diesel heaters are the cheapest to run (£0.96/day) and the most practical for off-grid. Electric hookup is expensive (£3.60/day) but convenient on campsites. LPG is slightly cheaper than diesel but LPG refill points are rare. Our recommendation: Diesel heater for off-grid. Use electric hookup when available.
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Getting Started
If you're new to this topic, start with the basics:
- Understand the key concepts
- Research your specific needs
- Set a realistic budget
- Plan your approach before buying
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the cheapest option (often costs more long-term)
- Skipping research on UK-specific requirements
- Not reading reviews from other UK van lifers
- Forgetting about ongoing costs and maintenance
UK-Specific Considerations
Living in the UK means dealing with:
- Variable weather conditions
- UK regulations and standards
- British suppliers and support
- Right-hand drive vehicle considerations
Budget Planning
For most van lifers, we recommend:
- Budget option: £50-100 (basic but functional)
- Mid-range: £100-200 (good quality, lasting)
- Premium: £200+ (best quality, longest lasting)
Maintenance Tips
Keep your equipment working well:
- Check regularly for wear and tear
- Clean according to manufacturer instructions
- Store properly when not in use
- Replace parts before they fail
Community Recommendations
The van life community consistently recommends:
- Starting simple and upgrading as needed
- Buying from established UK suppliers
- Reading forums and Facebook groups for real-world advice
- Watching YouTube tutorials before attempting installations
Getting Started
If you're new to this topic, start with the basics:
- Research thoroughly before investing money
- Start simple and upgrade as you learn your needs
- Read reviews from other UK van lifers
- Watch YouTube tutorials for practical demonstrations
- Join van life forums and Facebook groups for advice
UK-Specific Considerations
Van life in the UK has unique characteristics:
Weather and Seasons
- Summer (June-August): Best for outdoor activities, book campsites early
- Autumn (September-November): Quieter, beautiful colours, cooler nights
- Winter (December-February): Cold but stunning, fewer crowds
- Spring (March-May): Warming up, wildflowers, longer days
Best UK Locations
- Lake District: Stunning scenery, excellent facilities
- Cornwall: Coastal routes, mild weather, beautiful beaches
- Scotland: Remote wild camping, dramatic landscapes
- Peak District: Central, accessible, varied terrain
- Snowdonia: Welsh mountains, affordable, uncrowded
Costs in the UK
Typical monthly expenses:
- Campsite fees: £10-25/night
- Fuel: £200-400/month
- Food: £200-400/month
- Insurance: £50-100/month
- Maintenance: £100/month
Regulations
- Speed limits vary by vehicle class
- Parking restrictions in urban areas
- Environmental protection zones
- Road tax and MOT requirements
Practical Tips
Daily Routine
- Start early to make the most of daylight
- Plan your route and stops in advance
- Keep essential supplies stocked
- Maintain your van regularly
- Stay connected with family and friends
Budget Management
- Track your spending daily
- Cook most meals in your van
- Use free camping where legal
- Take advantage of off-season pricing
- Budget for unexpected repairs
Safety Considerations
- Tell someone your plans when remote
- Keep a first aid kit accessible
- Have emergency contacts saved
- Know the local emergency numbers
- Carry a backup power source
Community Resources
Online Communities
- Facebook Groups: Van Life UK, Campervan Conversion UK
- Forums: Caravan and Motorhome Club
- YouTube: Build tutorials and travel vlogs
- Apps: Park4Night, SearchForCamp
Recommended Reading
- UK road atlases and maps
- Wild camping guides
- Van life recipe books
- Maintenance manuals
Equipment Checklist
- Essential items for this topic
- Nice-to-have additions
- Budget-friendly alternatives
- Premium options for serious enthusiasts
Maintenance and Care
Regular Checks
- Inspect monthly for wear and tear
- Clean according to manufacturer instructions
- Store properly when not in use
- Replace parts before they fail
UK-Specific Care
- Protect from moisture and dampness
- Check for rust on metal components
- Ensure weatherproofing is intact
- Service annually if applicable
Final Thoughts
Van life is about freedom, adventure, and simplicity. Whatever this topic means to you, remember that the best approach is the one that works for your specific situation. Start simple, learn as you go, and don't be afraid to change your approach based on experience.
The UK van life community is welcoming and helpful. Don't hesitate to ask questions, share your experiences, and learn from others. Every van lifer started somewhere, and the journey is as rewarding as the destination.
