10 Best Camping Water Heaters 2025 in the United States

The Rinnai V53DeP is a propane-powered tankless water heater designed primarily for outdoor use, making it a solid choice for camping or other off-grid water heating needs. It delivers a strong flow rate of 5.3 gallons per minute, which means you can have continuous hot water for multiple tasks without running out. Its heating capacity is quite powerful at 81 kilowatts, so it heats water quickly and efficiently. The unit is compact and lightweight at 33 pounds, helping with portability and making it easier to install even in tight spaces. Since it runs on propane, you don't need electricity, which is a big plus for camping or remote areas.

The heater is high-efficiency and includes features like enhanced scale detection to extend its life, plus it offers Wi-Fi capability for remote monitoring, although this might be less useful outdoors or away from Wi-Fi coverage. Safety-wise, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper setup and secure operation, which means this might not be the best pick if you're looking for a quick DIY solution. It also comes with a strong warranty covering parts and labor, giving extra peace of mind.

Because it’s designed for outdoor installation and professional setup, it might not be the easiest or most portable option for casual campers who want something simple to carry and operate. However, if you need reliable, continuous hot water with propane fuel and don't mind a bit of setup effort, this model fits well.

The Rinnai RE199eN is a natural gas tankless water heater designed for outdoor use, making it a strong option if you need reliable hot water while camping or for other outdoor activities. It delivers a high heating capacity with 199,000 BTUs and can provide up to 9.8 gallons per minute, which means it can easily supply hot water to multiple faucets or showers at the same time. This makes it suitable for larger groups or setups where several people might need hot water simultaneously.

Since it runs on natural gas, it’s efficient for extended use but requires access to a gas supply, which might not suit all camping locations. The unit is fairly compact, about the size of a small suitcase and weighing around 53 pounds. This makes it portable enough to move or install outdoors but less ideal if you’re looking for a lightweight, backpack-friendly heater.

In terms of ease of use, the heater features an LED display that shows service reminders and error codes, helping with maintenance and troubleshooting. Installation is recommended to be done by a professional, so it’s not a simple plug-and-play device, which could be a downside if you want something ready to go without expert help. The unit includes standard built-in safety protections common in tankless water heaters, and its outdoor design helps prevent indoor gas or vapor buildup. It also conserves energy by only heating water when needed.

If you want steady, on-demand hot water outdoors and have access to natural gas and professional installation, the Rinnai RE199eN offers powerful heating and good flow rates. However, if your camping spot lacks gas or you prefer ultra-portable gear, a smaller propane or electric model might be more convenient.