Living the van life means every inch of space matters, every ounce of weight counts, and every appliance needs to work hard without wasting energy. A tankless water heater is one of the smartest upgrades you can make if you want hot showers, warm dishwater, and comfort on the road without the bulk of a traditional tank.
Instead of heating water all day, a tankless system warms it instantly when you turn on the tap. That means no waiting for a tank to refill, no storing gallons of water you’re not using, and less energy waste — perfect for life on wheels.
We’ll start with the top tankless water heaters for van life, then get into buying tips, installation advice, and maintenance so you can hit the road with the right setup from day one.
Top Tankless Water Heater Picks for Van Life
1. Camplux 1.58 GPM Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater
The Camplux 1.58 GPM is a favorite for van lifers because it’s small, lightweight, and easy to mount outside when in use. It runs on propane and works well for quick showers or dishwashing, delivering steady hot water without pulling from your van’s electrical system.
- Best for: Simple setups and off-grid living
- Pros: Lightweight, portable, budget-friendly
- Cons: Lower flow rate, needs propane refills
2. Eccotemp L5 Portable Outdoor Tankless Water Heater
One of the most well-known portable water heaters, the Eccotemp L5 runs on propane and provides up to 1.5 GPM — enough for a comfortable outdoor shower. It’s compact, hangs on a wall or rack, and is simple to set up when you park.
- Best for: Outdoor shower setups and minimal installations
- Pros: Affordable, easy to move, no permanent install needed
- Cons: Designed for outdoor use only
3. Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Propane Water Heater
If you want a more permanent RV-grade installation, the Girard 2GWHAM is an excellent propane model that fits into small spaces and delivers a steady 2.4 GPM. It’s designed for mobile living, with freeze protection and automatic ignition.
- Best for: Vans with built-in plumbing
- Pros: Consistent temperature, RV-specific design
- Cons: Higher cost, professional install recommended
4. Bosch Tronic 3000 Point-of-Use Electric Water Heater
While not fully “tankless,” this compact electric unit acts as a point-of-use heater for small sinks. For van dwellers with access to shore power or strong solar setups, it offers quick warm water with very low installation needs.
- Best for: Vans parked with power access
- Pros: Easy to install, reliable, small footprint
- Cons: Not ideal for showers without additional heating
5. Rinnai RL75eP Outdoor Tankless Water Heater (Propane)
For high-demand van conversions with full plumbing and multiple hot water needs, the Rinnai RL75eP delivers 7.5 GPM outdoors. While larger and pricier, it’s built for efficiency and reliability, making it a good fit for luxury van builds.
- Best for: Large van builds with multiple fixtures
- Pros: High flow rate, long life, strong warranty
- Cons: Higher price, requires more space and propane
Why a Tankless Water Heater Works Well for Van Life
Van living is all about smart energy and space management. A tankless heater fits that lifestyle perfectly:
- Space savings: Wall-mounted or portable designs keep floor space free
- Energy efficiency: Only heats water when needed, saving fuel or electricity
- Endless hot water: Perfect for road trips and remote camping
- Lightweight: Adds minimal weight compared to tank systems
- Flexible fuel options: Choose electric, propane, or even battery-assisted models
Key Buying Considerations for Van Life
1. Fuel Source
Most van dwellers choose propane because it’s efficient and doesn’t drain electrical systems. Electric heaters work well if you have a strong solar or shore power setup.
2. Flow Rate (GPM)
For a van shower, 1.5–2.5 GPM is usually enough. Higher flow rates can be overkill and waste water, which is limited on the road.
3. Climate
If you travel in cold areas, incoming water will be much cooler. Choose a model with extra heating capacity to maintain comfort.
4. Installation Style
Portable units are easiest to set up and remove. Built-in units require more work but offer convenience and better integration with your plumbing.
5. Size & Weight
Every pound and inch matters in a van. Check product dimensions and weight before committing.
Installation Tips for Van Life
- Choose a safe mounting location with proper ventilation for propane models
- For portable heaters, set up near an outdoor shower tent or van door
- Use quick-connect fittings for easy setup and removal
- Keep propane tanks secured and away from heat sources
- Protect outdoor models from rain and dust
Maintenance for Long Life
Even portable water heaters need care to last through years of van travel:
- Drain the unit before winter or long storage to prevent damage
- Flush annually to remove scale buildup
- Check propane hoses and connections regularly
- Clean inlet filters every few months
Conclusion
Choosing the right tankless water heater for van life depends on your travel style, fuel setup, and space. For simple off-grid use, the Camplux 1.58 GPM or Eccotemp L5 are budget-friendly and portable. If you want a built-in system, the Girard 2GWHAM offers steady comfort. For electric setups, the Bosch Tronic 3000 is perfect for sinks, and for high-demand luxury vans, the Rinnai RL75eP delivers unmatched performance.
With the right choice, you can enjoy hot water wherever your van takes you — from mountain lakes to desert canyons — without sacrificing the freedom and simplicity that van life is all about.