When you are out on the road with your camper, nothing feels better than a hot shower after a long day of exploring. The trouble is, many traditional camper water heaters store only a small amount of water, meaning you run out fast and have to wait for it to heat again. A tankless water heater solves this by giving you hot water on demand — no bulky tank, no long wait times, and no wasted fuel reheating water you are not using.
In this guide, you will get the best tankless water heater recommendations for campers right away, followed by a detailed buyer’s guide to help you choose the perfect model for your travel needs.
Top Tankless Water Heater Picks for Campers
1. Girard 2GWHAM Tankless Water Heater
Designed for RVs and campers, the Girard 2GWHAM runs on propane and delivers a steady 2.4 gallons per minute (GPM) of hot water. It is compact, easy to install in standard cutouts, and has a digital temperature control panel for precise adjustments. Built-in freeze protection makes it a good choice for year-round use.
- Best for: Small to medium campers
- Pros: Space-saving, energy-efficient, RV-specific fit
- Cons: Not designed for running two showers at once
2. Furrion 2.4GPM Tankless Water Heater
This propane-powered model is made with camper and RV owners in mind. It uses Vortex technology to keep water temperature stable, avoiding sudden hot or cold bursts. Overheat and freeze protection are built in, and it fits most standard camper water heater spaces.
- Best for: Campers needing consistent temperature
- Pros: Smooth temperature control, durable build, solid safety features
- Cons: Costs more than some other propane models
3. Camplux 2.64GPM Outdoor Portable Tankless
For campers who want flexibility, the Camplux portable propane water heater is a great option. It can be used freestanding outdoors or mounted in your camper. With a higher flow rate of 2.64 GPM, it can handle more demanding hot water needs and is easy to pack away when not in use.
- Best for: Off-grid camping or outdoor setups
- Pros: High flow rate, portable, affordable
- Cons: Not as durable for permanent installations
4. PrecisionTemp RV-550 Tankless
Known for efficiency, the RV-550 delivers about 1.5–1.6 GPM of hot water, making it a good fit for smaller campers or those focused on fuel savings. It has freeze protection and a reputation for long-term reliability.
- Best for: Small campers and efficiency-minded travelers
- Pros: Excellent efficiency, compact, proven performance
- Cons: Lower GPM limits multi-use
5. EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless
If your camper is usually hooked up to shore power, the EcoSmart ECO 11 is an excellent electric option. It provides up to 2.6 GPM depending on incoming water temperature, with precise digital controls and a very compact design.
- Best for: Campers with consistent electrical hookups
- Pros: No propane needed, precise temp control, easy installation
- Cons: Not for off-grid use without a strong power source
Why a Tankless Water Heater Is Perfect for Campers
Tankless water heaters are a smart upgrade from traditional tank models for campers because they:
- Heat water only when needed, saving fuel and energy
- Provide endless hot water as long as you have water and power or propane
- Take up less space, freeing up storage
- Reduce maintenance since there is no tank to clean out
Things to Look for When Buying
Fuel Type
Propane models are most common for campers since they work anywhere, even off-grid. Electric models are great if you camp mostly with hookups. Some travelers choose dual-fuel units for more flexibility.
Flow Rate (GPM)
The GPM rating tells you how much water the unit can heat at once. For most campers, 2–2.5 GPM is fine for one shower or sink at a time. If you want to run multiple fixtures together, choose at least 3 GPM.
Size and Weight
Measure your available space before buying. Even small size differences can make installation difficult. Weight is also important if you are close to your camper’s maximum load.
Temperature Control
Digital controls or remote thermostats make it easier to get consistent water temperatures without sudden changes.
Safety Features
Look for overheat protection, freeze protection, and automatic shutoff features for added peace of mind.
Installation Tips
- Measure the space and check cutout dimensions before purchase
- Make sure your water and propane connections match the unit
- Install in a well-ventilated spot if using propane
- Drain and winterize the system if storing your camper in freezing weather
Maintenance Advice
Even though tankless water heaters need less maintenance than tank models, regular checks keep them in top shape:
- Flush the heater annually to remove mineral buildup
- Inspect water and propane connections before each trip
- Clean or replace inlet water filters as needed
- Check safety systems like freeze protection
Conclusion
For camper owners, a tankless water heater means more comfort and less hassle on the road. The Girard 2GWHAM and Furrion 2.4GPM are both excellent built-in propane models. If you need portability, the Camplux 2.64GPM is a great off-grid choice. For smaller setups, the PrecisionTemp RV-550 offers unbeatable efficiency, and if you camp with full hookups, the EcoSmart ECO 11 electric model could be perfect.
Choose the one that matches your space, fuel source, and travel style, and you will enjoy endless hot water wherever your camper takes you.