Hot water without a campsite electric hook-up is possible, but “without electricity” can mean several different things. You might want to avoid a mains heating element, reduce battery demand, or use a simple routine without a permanently fitted boiler. State which problem you are solving before choosing equipment.
A gas-fired product can still need electricity for controls, ignition or a pump. Plan the whole water system rather than treating its heat source as its only energy input.
Start with how you use hot water
Write down the jobs you need to cover: washing a few dishes, a basin wash or a built-in shower. Consider how often you need warm water, how many people use it and what facilities are available on your usual trips.
A small amount heated as part of ordinary cooking may fit a modest washing routine when using an appropriately installed appliance exactly as instructed. It does not provide the same convenience as a permanently connected shower system. Plan a secure place for any hot container and avoid carrying it through a crowded van. Do not improvise a pressurised hot-water arrangement from containers or fittings without an appropriate design.
If you mainly use campsite showers, paying for facilities may serve your needs better than adding a boiler, fuel demand and maintenance to a compact build.
An example of gas heat with electrical controls
Truma's Boiler Gas / Gas-Elektro page describes a ten-litre water heater and distinguishes gas heating from an additional mains electric element. Its technical details also list 12V consumption for ignition, heating and standby. Read those figures alongside the marketing language: independence from mains power is not evidence that the complete installation needs no electricity.
This is an example for understanding energy inputs, not a recommendation that the boiler suits every van. Confirm the exact model, current instructions, intended vehicle use and complete installation with the manufacturer or an appropriately qualified installer.
Include the rest of the system
A fitted hot-water plan needs space for the appliance and its required clearances, suitable water components, permitted fuel arrangements, any electrical supply and access for maintenance. Include the water you will carry and the practical route for filling, using and disposing of it.
Ask for a quotation covering the complete commissioned installation. Check how the manufacturer specifies draining, frost protection, cleaning and periods out of use. A low price for the appliance alone does not establish the total build cost or winter suitability.
Keep outdoor and installed appliances distinct
Do not infer indoor suitability from a product described as portable or intended for camping. Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service's caravan advice warns against bringing fuel-burning camping equipment inside. A purpose-designed installed appliance must be assessed against its own instructions and installation requirements.
Gas Safe Register's caravan and motorhome factsheet also addresses ventilation and gas safety. Arrange suitable professional advice for the relevant LPG and vehicle work; a general shopping comparison cannot approve an installation.
The best choice depends on the hot-water service you actually need. Compare convenience, space, installation, energy and ongoing care together. Sources checked on 25 October 2026; no heating or installation tests were performed.
