The Best Caravan Air Conditioning to Keep You Cool on Your Travels

Jul 12, 2025

Sweltering in your caravan like a roast chicken? Don’t sweat it — the best caravan air conditioning is the Truma Aventa Comfort for cool, quiet luxury. But is it right for you? From portable lifesavers to roof-mounted beasts, we’ll help you find your perfect caravan and motorhome air conditioning match.

Understanding the Different Types of Caravan Air Conditioners

Rooftop Air Conditioners: The Popular Choice

Rooftop units are among the most common choices for caravans and motorhomes. They offer strong cooling performance and save interior space.

Models like the Dometic Freshjet2200 and Truma Aventa Comfort are well-known in this category. While they are efficient and compact, they usually need to be installed professionally. That’s something to factor into your total cost and setup time.

Dometic FreshJet air conditioner unit installed on top of a caravan, viewed from the side against a tree-lined background.

Under-Bunk Air Conditioners: A Space-Saving Solution

Although not covered in detail in this article, under-bunk units are often ideal for low-roof or pop-top caravans. These air conditioners fit under seating areas or beds and distribute air through ducting.

They are a smart choice for layouts where rooftop space is limited or aesthetics are a priority. Quiet and discreet, they offer a good balance of cooling and convenience.

Portable Air Conditioners: Flexibility and Convenience

Portable systems, like the Transcool EC3, offer flexibility for travellers who switch between vans or want a quick cooling solution. These units can be moved easily and don’t require permanent installation.

They’re often more budget-friendly, too. However, they usually don’t cool as effectively as compressor-based systems, especially in very hot weather. Regular maintenance, such as changing cooling pads, is also needed.

Key Features to Consider Before You Buy

Cooling and Heating Capacity (BTUs)

Cooling performance is one of the first things to look for. Some models also offer heating functions, making them useful year-round.

The Truma Aventa Comfort includes climate control and a sleep mode, while the Dometic Freshjet2200 has a reversible fan. These dual-use systems offer added value if you travel during colder months as well.

Power Consumption and Energy Efficiency

How much energy your unit uses matters—especially off-grid. 12V systems like the Transcool EC3 can run from your caravan battery, offering energy savings.

Mains-powered systems give you more cooling power but need access to electricity or a high-capacity battery. Look for units that balance performance with low power draw.

Noise Level: A Quiet Night's Sleep

Nobody wants an air conditioner that sounds like a jet engine. Noise levels should always be considered, especially if you’re a light sleeper.

The Truma Aventa Comfort has a quiet mode and adjustable fan speeds. The Dometic Freshjet2200 is also relatively quiet, though it can get louder on higher settings. Check user reviews for real-world noise feedback.

Weight and Size Considerations

Caravan space is limited, so compactness is key. Smaller models like the Freshjet2200 fit a variety of roof layouts without interfering with storage or headroom.

If you have a lightweight setup or smaller van, always check the weight of the unit before buying. Heavier units may affect your towing balance or fuel efficiency.

Dometic FreshJet air conditioner mounted on a motorhome roof, parked by the beach with ocean waves in the background.

Installation and Maintenance Requirements

Installation can be as easy as plugging it in—or it might need a professional. Roof-mounted models often require professional fitting, adding to the total cost.

Portable models, in contrast, are easy to set up yourself. Maintenance is also simpler but may be more frequent depending on the unit. Always read the manual to stay on top of cleaning and filter changes.

Leading Brands in the Caravan Air Conditioning Market

Dometic: A Household Name

Dometic is a trusted name in caravan appliances. The Freshjet2200 is compact and effective, with built-in dehumidification and remote control.

It offers strong performance but may require a larger battery or frequent charging due to its power demands. Still, its space-saving design makes it a strong contender.

Truma: German Engineering

Truma’s Aventa Comfort is a premium choice for those seeking advanced features. It offers high energy efficiency, custom fan settings, and smartphone compatibility via the Truma ComfortControl app.

It’s a bit more expensive than other units, but many users say the performance and durability are worth it. A solid option for long-term use.

Other Notable Brands

Transcool stands out for its affordable, portable evaporative units like the EC3. It’s great for smaller caravans or travellers on a tight budget.

Running on 12V, the EC3 is easy to power and maintain. It’s not ideal for extreme heat, but it’s a flexible and low-cost solution.

Truma Aventa Comfort air conditioning unit shown isolated on white background, highlighting its underside air vents.

The Best Caravan Air Conditioners of the Year

Top-Rated Rooftop Air Conditioners

Best Overall: Truma Aventa Comfort

Efficient, quiet, and packed with features like sleep mode and app control. It’s a premium pick for serious travellers who want comfort without compromise.

Quietest Operation: Dometic Freshjet2200

Known for its compact design and quiet running. It’s a good balance between power and peace—though fan noise can rise at higher settings.

Best for Large Caravans: Truma Aventa Comfort

Its performance and high BTU rating make it ideal for cooling bigger vans. It also handles extended use well in warm weather.

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