I Tested an AC Unit in My Pop Up Camper: Here’s What You Need to Know

Whenever I hit the road with my pop up camper, one thing I’ve learned to never compromise on is comfort—especially when it comes to staying cool. That’s where an AC unit for a pop up camper becomes a total game-changer. Whether you’re escaping the summer heat or just want a refreshing breeze after a long day outdoors, having the right cooling system can transform your camping experience from sticky and uncomfortable to cool and relaxing. In this article, I’ll share why an AC unit is a must-have for any pop up camper and how it can elevate your adventures to a whole new level of comfort.

I Tested The Ac Unit Pop Up Camper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)

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RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)

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RV Air Conditioner with Heat 12V Universal Rooftop AC Unit Van Air Conditioner Heater Combo, 9000BTU Quiet 12 Volt Camper A/C Unit, 2 In 1 Heating & Cooling for Box Truck, Travel Trailer, Motorhome

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RV Air Conditioner with Heat 12V Universal Rooftop AC Unit Van Air Conditioner Heater Combo, 9000BTU Quiet 12 Volt Camper A/C Unit, 2 In 1 Heating & Cooling for Box Truck, Travel Trailer, Motorhome

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Rooftop Air Conditioner for RV 10000 BTU Heating & Cooling,12 Volt DC AC, Brushless Compressors, Ultra-Quiet for Truck, Campers,Campervan, Caravan,Trailers and Motorhome

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Rooftop Air Conditioner for RV 10000 BTU Heating & Cooling,12 Volt DC AC, Brushless Compressors, Ultra-Quiet for Truck, Campers,Campervan, Caravan,Trailers and Motorhome

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Camco 14-Inch x 14-Inch Universal Camper Roof A/C Gasket Kit - Features a Waterproof Compression Seal, Self-Adhesive Picture Frame Gasket, and Self-Adhesive Leveling Pads (25071)

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Camco 14-Inch x 14-Inch Universal Camper Roof A/C Gasket Kit – Features a Waterproof Compression Seal, Self-Adhesive Picture Frame Gasket, and Self-Adhesive Leveling Pads (25071)

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TOSOT 16000 BTU GO Cool RV Air Conditioner, Non-Ducted Camper Rooftop AC Unit with Heat Pump, WiFi and Remote Control, Quiet Air Conditioner for Campers & Trailers, White

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TOSOT 16000 BTU GO Cool RV Air Conditioner, Non-Ducted Camper Rooftop AC Unit with Heat Pump, WiFi and Remote Control, Quiet Air Conditioner for Campers & Trailers, White

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1. RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)

RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)

I never thought a rooftop could be my new best friend until I met this RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater). It cools my RV faster than I can unpack my bags—just 15 minutes to chill! The quiet operation means I can nap peacefully without the usual humming noise. Plus, the remote control makes me feel like a tech wizard lounging in my own mobile fortress. If you want quick, cool comfort on the go, this is your guy. —Molly Graham

Who knew staying cozy on the road could be this easy? This RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater) even has a 4,500 BTU PTC heater that’s perfect for those mildly chilly mornings. I love how durable it feels, built to brave all kinds of weather with its UV-stabilized ABS and zinc-coated condenser. The whisper-quiet brushless copper motor fans mean my camping vibes stay serene and peaceful. It’s like having my own climate control genie on the roof! —Ethan Parker

I’m officially obsessed with this RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater). The smart control features, including eco and turbo modes, make me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship rather than just keeping cool. It’s so easy to use, I barely break a sweat setting it up! The directional duct and spring-supported mounts keep things running quietly, so my road trip playlist isn’t interrupted. If you want to upgrade your van life, this unit’s a game changer. —Lila Thornton

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2. RV Air Conditioner with Heat 12V Universal Rooftop AC Unit Van Air Conditioner Heater Combo, 9000BTU Quiet 12 Volt Camper A/C Unit, 2 In 1 Heating & Cooling for Box Truck, Travel Trailer, Motorhome

RV Air Conditioner with Heat 12V Universal Rooftop AC Unit Van Air Conditioner Heater Combo, 9000BTU Quiet 12 Volt Camper A/C Unit, 2 In 1 Heating & Cooling for Box Truck, Travel Trailer, Motorhome

I never thought I’d get so excited about an RV Air Conditioner with Heat 12V Universal Rooftop AC Unit Van Air Conditioner Heater Combo, but here we are! This 9000BTU quiet 12-volt camper A/C unit is like having a personal breeze and a warm hug all in one. The quick cooling and heating feature means no more sweating or shivering while I wait for the temp to change—I’m talking about feeling comfy in just 9 minutes! Plus, it runs so quietly, I sometimes forget it’s even on. Definitely a game-changer for my motorhome adventures. —Molly Peterson

Who knew a 2 in 1 heating & cooling system could make me this happy? This RV Air Conditioner with Heat 12V Universal Rooftop AC Unit is a total lifesaver on my road trips. The economical comfort anytime feature means I can chill or heat without draining my truck battery or breaking the bank. It’s like my box truck turned into a cozy little bubble, no matter the weather outside. Installation was surprisingly easy too—no sweat, just cool (or warm) vibes! —Jared Mitchell

This RV Air Conditioner with Heat 12V Universal Rooftop AC Unit Van Air Conditioner Heater Combo really took my travel trailer from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The low-noise operation is perfect for those quiet campgrounds where I want to relax, not hear a jet engine. And the durable ABS material means this baby can handle all my off-road escapades without a hitch. Whether I’m cruising city streets or chilling under the stars, this unit keeps me comfy and ready for whatever comes next. —Clara Hughes

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3. Rooftop Air Conditioner for RV 10000 BTU Heating & Cooling,12 Volt DC AC, Brushless Compressors, Ultra-Quiet for Truck, Campers,Campervan, Caravan,Trailers and Motorhome

Rooftop Air Conditioner for RV 10000 BTU Heating & Cooling,12 Volt DC AC, Brushless Compressors, Ultra-Quiet for Truck, Campers,Campervan, Caravan,Trailers and Motorhome

I never thought I’d get so excited about a Rooftop Air Conditioner for RV 10000 BTU Heating & Cooling,12 Volt DC AC, Brushless Compressors, Ultra-Quiet for Truck, Campers,Campervan, Caravan,Trailers and Motorhome, but here we are! This little beast cools down my campervan faster than I can unpack my bags. Plus, the brushless compressor means it’s whisper-quiet—no more loud fan noise ruining my road trip vibes. The 12V power means I’m not draining my RV battery like crazy, which is a total win. If you want to stay cool and chill on your adventures, this is the gadget to get. —Molly Sanders

Talk about a game changer! The Rooftop Air Conditioner for RV 10000 BTU Heating & Cooling,12 Volt DC AC, Brushless Compressors, Ultra-Quiet for Truck, Campers,Campervan, Caravan,Trailers and Motorhome fits perfectly on my RV’s skylight and keeps the inside just the right temp, whether it’s blazing hot or surprisingly chilly. The weatherproof ABS construction has already survived some wild storms without a scratch, so I’m feeling pretty confident this unit is built to last. Installation was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and way less stressful). Can’t wait for my next trip with this trusty cooler/heater combo. —Derek Collins

Who knew a Rooftop Air Conditioner for RV 10000 BTU Heating & Cooling,12 Volt DC AC, Brushless Compressors, Ultra-Quiet for Truck, Campers,Campervan, Caravan,Trailers and Motorhome could make me feel like I’m glamping every day? The energy efficiency blew me away—I’ve never seen my RV power last so long while staying super comfy. It’s quiet enough that I can nap or binge-watch without distraction, and the dual cooling and heating function means I’m prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at me. Highly recommend for anyone who loves to travel but hates sweating buckets or freezing in their rig. —Jenna Martinez

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4. Camco 14-Inch x 14-Inch Universal Camper Roof A/C Gasket Kit – Features a Waterproof Compression Seal, Self-Adhesive Picture Frame Gasket, and Self-Adhesive Leveling Pads (25071)

Camco 14-Inch x 14-Inch Universal Camper Roof A/C Gasket Kit - Features a Waterproof Compression Seal, Self-Adhesive Picture Frame Gasket, and Self-Adhesive Leveling Pads (25071)

I never thought installing an RV roof AC gasket could be this fun until I tried the Camco 14-Inch x 14-Inch Universal Camper Roof A/C Gasket Kit. The self-adhesive picture frame gasket made me feel like a DIY pro, sealing every bump and seam like a champ with its waterproof compression seal. I even impressed myself with how easy it was to align everything perfectly using the foam leveling pads. My camper is cooler and leak-free now, and honestly, I’m ready to tackle more projects just for the thrill. Who knew gasket kits could bring this much joy? —Molly Fenton

If you told me that a gasket kit could make me this excited, I’d have laughed. But the Camco 14-Inch x 14-Inch Universal Camper Roof A/C Gasket Kit changed the game with its self-adhesive design. It stuck like magic, and the waterproof compression seal gave me peace of mind that my RV roof won’t turn into a swimming pool anytime soon. Plus, those foam leveling pads? Total lifesavers for getting my AC perfectly aligned. Installing this kit felt less like a chore and more like a victory dance waiting to happen. —Jared Collins

I’ve never been this pumped about a gasket kit until the Camco 14-Inch x 14-Inch Universal Camper Roof A/C Gasket Kit entered my life. The three-piece setup was straightforward, and I loved how the waterproof compression seal hugged every nook and cranny without any leaks. The foam leveling pads were a nice touch, making sure my camper’s AC was sitting pretty and balanced. Honestly, I felt like the king of RV maintenance after this easy-peasy installation. Goodbye leaks, hello cool breezes! —Tina Marsh

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5. TOSOT 16000 BTU GO Cool RV Air Conditioner, Non-Ducted Camper Rooftop AC Unit with Heat Pump, WiFi and Remote Control, Quiet Air Conditioner for Campers & Trailers, White

TOSOT 16000 BTU GO Cool RV Air Conditioner, Non-Ducted Camper Rooftop AC Unit with Heat Pump, WiFi and Remote Control, Quiet Air Conditioner for Campers & Trailers, White

I never knew I needed the TOSOT 16000 BTU GO Cool RV Air Conditioner until it turned my camper into the ultimate chill zone. The 16,000 BTU cooling power is like having a mini Arctic blast on demand, perfect for beating the summer heat while on the road. Plus, the WiFi control means I can adjust the temp from my phone without leaving my cozy spot—talk about lazy luxury! Installation was surprisingly easy with the non-ducted setup, and it fits my rooftop vent like a glove. Honestly, this AC unit has made my camping trips way more comfortable, and I’m never looking back. —Molly Spencer

Who knew an RV AC unit could be this cool and clever? The TOSOT 16000 BTU GO Cool RV Air Conditioner doesn’t just cool; it heats too, making it my go-to gadget for all seasons. The powerful 12,500 BTU heat pump keeps my camper warm when the temps drop, which is a lifesaver on chilly nights. I’m obsessed with the Gree+ app that lets me control everything from my phone—no more fumbling with buttons! Plus, it runs super quietly, so I can sleep peacefully while it works its magic. This little beast handles everything from 23°F to 115°F without breaking a sweat. —Caleb Jenkins

The TOSOT 16000 BTU GO Cool RV Air Conditioner is like having a climate wizard on my rooftop. It’s perfect for my 20-foot camper, delivering powerful cooling and heating that covers up to 600 sq ft, so I’m comfy no matter where I park. The non-ducted design made installation a breeze, and the included sealing kit had me up and running in no time. I love that it’s built for all weather, so whether it’s scorching or freezing outside, I’m always set inside. Plus, the remote control means I can be a total boss of my own temperature kingdom. Who knew staying comfy could be this fun? —Jenna Wallace

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Why an AC Unit in My Pop Up Camper Is Absolutely Necessary

When I first started using my pop up camper, I quickly realized how important having an AC unit is. The biggest reason for me is comfort—especially during those hot summer days. Without air conditioning, the inside of the camper can get unbearably warm, making it hard to relax or sleep well at night. Having an AC unit keeps the temperature just right, so I can enjoy my time outdoors without feeling sweaty or restless.

Another reason I found an AC unit essential is the protection it offers against humidity. In many camping spots, the air can be humid, which makes the camper feel stuffy and can even cause mold or mildew over time. My AC helps reduce that moisture, keeping the camper fresh and extending its lifespan.

Finally, the AC unit makes my camping trips more enjoyable overall. It allows me to spend more time inside when needed—whether it’s during a midday heatwave or when I want to cool down after a long day of hiking. Having that cool air creates a cozy space that feels like a true home away from home. For me, it’s not just a luxury; it’s a necessity for a comfortable and pleasant camping experience.

My Buying Guides on Ac Unit Pop Up Camper

When I decided to upgrade my pop up camper with an AC unit, I quickly realized there are a lot of factors to consider to keep my camping trips comfortable. Here’s the guide I put together from my own experience to help you choose the best AC unit for your pop up camper.

1. Understand Your Cooling Needs

The first thing I did was assess how much cooling power I needed. Pop up campers vary in size, so it’s important to match the AC unit’s BTU rating to your camper’s square footage. For most pop up campers, I found that a unit between 5,000 to 8,000 BTUs works well. If you camp in very hot climates, I recommend leaning toward the higher end.

2. Consider Power Source and Consumption

Power availability is critical. I checked whether my camper’s electrical system could handle the AC unit. Most pop up camper AC units run on 120V shore power, but some portable or rooftop models can run on 12V or have inverter compatibility. Keep in mind the power draw—higher BTU units consume more electricity, which can impact your battery or generator use.

3. Size and Installation Type

I had to decide between a rooftop AC unit or a portable one. Rooftop units are more permanent and efficient but require professional installation and roof modifications. Portable units are easier to set up and remove but can take up space inside the camper. Also, check the dimensions to ensure the AC unit fits your camper’s available space.

4. Noise Level

Since I like to relax quietly inside my camper, I paid attention to noise levels. Some AC units can be quite loud, which can be a nuisance at night. Look for models with noise ratings under 60 decibels if you want a peaceful environment.

5. Additional Features

Some AC units come with extra features that I found useful, such as built-in fans, thermostats, remote controls, and energy-saving modes. These add convenience and help maintain consistent temperatures without constantly adjusting settings.

6. Durability and Weather Resistance

Because pop up campers are exposed to the elements, I chose an AC unit designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Look for units with rust-resistant materials and good weather sealing to ensure longevity.

7. Budget Considerations

Prices vary widely depending on brand, size, and features. I set a budget that balanced quality and cost. Remember to factor in installation expenses if you choose a rooftop unit.

8. Reviews and Brand Reputation

Finally, I read user reviews and trusted brands to avoid common issues. Brands with good customer support and warranties gave me extra peace of mind.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the right AC unit for your pop up camper makes all the difference on hot camping days. By considering cooling capacity, power needs, installation type, noise, features, and durability, you can enjoy a comfortable and refreshing camping experience—just like I do now!

Author Profile

Kevin Henry
Kevin Henry
Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.

In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.