When fall arrived in the Tetons, I found myself facing the harsh reality of freezing temperatures. Nights dipped into the 20s, and my van became an icy box by morning. With just a sleeping bag and some sheets, I woke up shivering and surrounded by frost. Running the van’s engine all night for heat wasn’t an option, so I needed a solution fast. That’s when I discovered the Mr. Buddy Heater.
I drove to the nearest Home Depot, grabbed a Mr. Buddy heater and a small propane tank, and hoped for the best. It worked—kind of. After years of living vanlife through all seasons, I’ve learned what you need to know about using a Mr. Buddy heater to survive cold nights in a van.
Just before the cold fall days came while vanlifing it around the Tetons. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Why a Mr. Buddy Heater is a Must-Have for Vanlife
For the past eight years, I’ve lived full-time in my van. That includes sweltering summers and bitter winters. Let me tell you, there’s nothing worse than waking up to frost on the inside of your windows or, even worse, an icicle dangling from the roof. Staying warm is essential for comfort and safety. If you’re planning to embrace vanlife in colder climates, do yourself a favor and invest in a heater.
The Mr. Buddy heater is an affordable, simple solution for heating your van. It runs on propane, and with a gas line and tank, it can quickly take the chill off your space. However, like most things in vanlife, there are a few quirks and challenges to consider.
There is nothing worse than trying to get dry without a heater during vanlife. Photo by Dalton Johnson
The Good and The Bad of Using a Mr. Buddy Heater
1. No Thermostat Control
One thing to keep in mind is that the Mr. Buddy heater doesn’t come with a thermostat. That means it’s either fully on or completely off. Even on the lowest setting, it pumps out a steady stream of heat, which can quickly warm up a small space. While that’s great for those freezing mornings, it’s less ideal when you’re trying to sleep.
To balance the temperature, I crack open the roof vent to let some heat escape while still keeping the van warm enough to stay comfortable. It takes a bit of trial and error to figure out what works for your setup, but once you do, it’s a game-changer.
2. High Altitude Limitations
If you’re planning to travel or live at higher elevations, be aware that the Mr. Buddy heater can struggle above 6,000 feet. I’ve learned this the hard way while camping in the Rockies. The heater’s built-in safety features include an oxygen sensor, which can cause it to shut off in thin air. The good news is, if the heater turns off, the propane automatically shuts off too, so there’s no risk of leaking gas.
For those venturing into high-altitude regions, it’s wise to have a backup plan, like extra blankets or an alternative heat source.
3. Maintenance is Key
Vanlife is messy. Dust, dirt, and debris seem to find their way into every corner of the van, and the Mr. Buddy heater is no exception. Over time, the dust can clog the heater’s valve, causing it to stop working. Regular cleaning is essential to keep it running smoothly.
Thankfully, cleaning the heater is simple. All you need is some witch hazel and a few Q-tips. Carefully clean around the valve and any other dusty areas to keep the heater in good shape. A little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your Mr. Buddy remains a reliable companion during those cold months.
Tips for Using a Mr. Buddy Heater Safely
Ventilation is crucial. Always crack a window or open a roof vent when the heater is running to ensure proper airflow. This helps prevent condensation and reduces the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
Use a carbon monoxide detector. Safety first! A portable detector is a small investment that can save your life.
Turn it off when you sleep. While it’s tempting to keep the heater running all night, I usually heat the van before bed and then rely on my sleeping bag and blankets for warmth.
Vanlife in the winter along Highway 395. Photo by Dalton Johnson
My Verdict on the Mr. Buddy Heater
The Mr. Buddy heater isn’t perfect, but for vanlife, it’s a lifesaver. It’s affordable, effective, and simple to use. Yes, you’ll have to deal with quirks like high-altitude shutoffs and occasional cleaning, but those minor inconveniences are worth the warmth and comfort it provides.
Without my Mr. Buddy heater, those icy nights in the Tetons might have convinced me to give up vanlife altogether. Instead, I’ve braved eight winters on the road, staying warm and cozy even when the weather outside was anything but. If you’re gearing up for vanlife in colder climates, trust me: a Mr. Buddy heater should be at the top of your must-have list.
