If you're planning to travel through winter, tackle the Australian high country, or simply want more comfort during chilly nights, a diesel heater is one of the best upgrades you can make to your caravan.
The challenge is choosing the right one.
Should you buy a 2kW or 5kW model? Is a portable heater better than a fixed installation kit? Do you really need Bluetooth control?
At OnTrack Outdoor, we've supplied diesel heaters to thousands of Australians over the past nine years, and in this guide we'll help you choose the best option for your setup.
Best Diesel Heater Overall: 5kW Diesel Heater Kit
For most caravan owners, a 5kW diesel heater kit is the best all-round choice.
Modern diesel heaters automatically adjust their output, meaning a 5kW heater can run at lower settings when less heat is needed and increase output during colder conditions.
- Suitable for most caravans, camper trailers and motorhomes
- Faster warm-up times
- Better performance in very cold conditions
- Can be turned down when less heat is required
- Usually only a small price difference compared to 2kW models
View the 5kW Diesel Heater Kit here.
Best Diesel Heater for Small Caravans: 2kW Diesel Heater Kit
A 2kW diesel heater is ideal for smaller setups where a compact, efficient heater makes more sense than maximum heating power.
- Small camper trailers
- Compact caravans
- Slide-on campers
- Tiny homes
- Vehicles with limited installation space
A 2kW heater can comfortably heat many small caravans, particularly in coastal areas and milder climates.
View the 2kW Diesel Heater Kit here.
2kW vs 5kW Diesel Heaters
Choose a 2kW Heater If:
- Your caravan is under approximately 15m²
- You mostly travel in mild climates
- Space is limited
- You want the most compact installation
Choose a 5kW Heater If:
- You travel through colder regions
- You camp during winter
- You have a larger caravan or motorhome
- You want faster heat-up times
- You want maximum flexibility
For most Australian caravans, we generally recommend a 5kW model because it provides more heating capacity when needed while still being able to run at lower settings.
Best Portable Diesel Heater: All-In-One Diesel Heater
Portable diesel heaters have become extremely popular because they do not require a permanent installation.
Everything is built into a single portable unit, including the fuel tank, heater body, controller and air outlet.
- No permanent installation required
- Can be moved between vehicles
- Ideal for occasional camping
- Great for tents, awnings and sheds
- Easy DIY setup
View the Portable 5kW Diesel Heater here.
Best Fixed Installation Option: Diesel Heater Kits
If you own a caravan and travel regularly, a diesel heater kit is often the preferred solution.
- Professional integrated appearance
- Doesn't take up valuable storage space
- Permanent installation
- Better airflow options
- Easy to operate once installed
Most full-time caravan travellers prefer fixed installation kits because they're always ready to use.
Standard Controller vs Bluetooth Diesel Heaters
Bluetooth diesel heaters allow you to control the heater using your smartphone.
- Turn the heater on and off
- Adjust temperature
- Change power settings
- Monitor operating status
Standard Controllers Are Best For:
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Users who prefer simple operation
- Permanent caravan installations
Bluetooth Controllers Are Best For:
- Extra convenience
- Remote control from inside your caravan
- Monitoring settings from your phone
- Modern caravan setups
The heating performance is the same. The main difference is how you control the heater.
View the 5kW Bluetooth Diesel Heater here.
Which Diesel Heater Is Right for You?
| Situation | Recommended Heater |
|---|---|
| Small camper trailer | 2kW Kit |
| Small caravan | 2kW or 5kW Kit |
| Medium caravan | 5kW Kit |
| Large caravan | 5kW Kit |
| Winter travel | 5kW Kit |
| Occasional camping | Portable Heater |
| Multiple vehicles | Portable Heater |
| Permanent caravan installation | Diesel Heater Kit |
| Smartphone control | Bluetooth Model |
| Best overall value | 5kW Diesel Heater Kit |
Why Buy a Diesel Heater From OnTrack Outdoor?
At OnTrack Outdoor, we've specialised in diesel heaters for years and stock one of Australia's largest ranges.
- 2kW Diesel Heater Kits
- 5kW Diesel Heater Kits
- Bluetooth Diesel Heaters
- Portable Diesel Heaters
- Slimline Diesel Heaters
- Diesel Heater Parts and Accessories
Every heater is backed by Australian customer support, comprehensive troubleshooting guides, and a 2-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Browse the complete diesel heater range here.
Whether you're upgrading a caravan, camper trailer, motorhome or off-grid setup, there's a diesel heater solution to suit your needs and travel style.
