When you’re camping in a pop-up camper, the outdoors are your playground—but the inside can get a bit too warm, especially during the summer months. A reliable air conditioner can make all the difference in keeping your camper comfortable and cool. In this guide, we’ll review the best AC units for pop-up campers in 2024, focusing on efficiency, installation ease, and cooling power to ensure you have the perfect solution for your needs.
1. Dometic Brisk II Rooftop Air Conditioner
Why It’s One of the Best:
The Dometic Brisk II is a popular choice for RV and pop-up camper owners due to its impressive cooling capacity and compact design. It offers a powerful solution to keep your camper cool even in the hottest weather.
Key Features:
- Cooling Capacity: 13,500 BTU, providing ample cooling for most pop-up campers.
- Energy Efficiency: Designed for lower power consumption, making it perfect for off-grid camping.
- Size: Compact and lightweight, so it won’t take up much space or add unnecessary weight to your camper.
- Installation: Easy to install on the roof of your pop-up camper with a low-profile design for better aerodynamics.
- Noise Level: Quiet operation to keep the inside peaceful while you relax.
Why Choose Dometic Brisk II?
If you’re looking for a reliable, powerful AC unit that’s designed specifically for pop-up campers, the Dometic Brisk II is an excellent choice. Its energy-efficient design and high cooling capacity make it a top contender for staying cool on your camping trips.
2. Coleman Mach 8 Low Profile Air Conditioner
Why It’s One of the Best:
The Coleman Mach 8 is known for being one of the most compact and lightweight AC units available. Despite its size, it doesn’t compromise on cooling power, making it ideal for pop-up campers that need a high-performing air conditioner without adding too much weight.
Key Features:
- Cooling Capacity: 13,500 BTU, capable of cooling larger pop-up campers.
- Low Profile: The low-profile design is perfect for pop-up campers, reducing the impact on your vehicle’s height clearance.
- Energy Efficiency: It is designed to provide maximum cooling while consuming minimal power.
- Noise Reduction: Operates quietly, ensuring a peaceful environment inside your camper.
- Durability: Built to withstand the elements and provide reliable cooling for many camping seasons.
Why Choose Coleman Mach 8?
The Coleman Mach 8 is ideal for those looking for a compact AC unit with a strong cooling capacity. Its low-profile design and quiet operation make it one of the best choices for pop-up campers, especially when space and height are considerations.
3. Apachii 12V Portable Air Conditioner
Why It’s One of the Best:
For those who need a portable and flexible cooling solution, the Apachii 12V Portable Air Conditioner is a top choice. Unlike traditional rooftop AC units, this portable model offers the convenience of mobility, making it easy to move around and set up wherever you need it.
Key Features:
- Cooling Capacity: Offers a cooling power of 2,000 BTU, suitable for small to medium-sized pop-up campers.
- Power Supply: Operates on a 12V DC power supply, which can be plugged into your camper’s power system or a battery pack.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, allowing you to easily move the unit between the inside of your camper and other areas.
- Quiet Operation: Designed to run quietly, ensuring minimal disturbance while cooling.
- Ease of Use: Simple to set up and easy to maintain, making it perfect for those who want a straightforward solution.
Why Choose Apachii 12V Portable Air Conditioner?
If you’re looking for a portable air conditioner that you can move around and use flexibly, the Apachii 12V Portable Air Conditioner is an excellent option. It’s perfect for campers who want an easy-to-use solution without the commitment of a rooftop installation.
4. Frigidaire 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
Why It’s One of the Best:
If you don’t mind having a window-mounted AC, the Frigidaire 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is an affordable and efficient option for smaller pop-up campers. It provides solid cooling power while remaining budget-friendly.
Key Features:
- Cooling Capacity: 5,000 BTU, ideal for smaller pop-up campers or when you need a more affordable option.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy Star rated, ensuring it runs efficiently while keeping your power usage low.
- Quiet Operation: Designed to operate quietly, it won’t disturb your peace and quiet while relaxing inside your camper.
- Simple Setup: Easy to install in a camper’s window, making it a simple DIY project for many campers.
- Remote Control: Includes a remote for convenient temperature control from anywhere in the camper.
Why Choose Frigidaire 5000 BTU?
For smaller pop-up campers, the Frigidaire 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is an affordable and effective solution. It’s easy to install and offers reliable cooling for those on a budget.
5. Black + Decker BPACT08WT Portable Air Conditioner
Why It’s One of the Best:
The Black + Decker BPACT08WT is a versatile portable AC unit that can be used in pop-up campers, RVs, or even at home. It combines solid cooling performance with convenience, making it a great option for those who need flexibility.
Key Features:
- Cooling Capacity: 8,000 BTU, offering cooling power for medium-sized campers or small RVs.
- Portable: This unit is easy to move and set up anywhere, ideal for those who prefer a portable option.
- Multi-functionality: It functions as an air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier, providing multiple solutions for your camper.
- Energy Efficient: It has an energy-saving mode to help reduce power consumption.
- Quiet Operation: Low noise levels ensure a comfortable environment while the unit is running.
Why Choose Black + Decker BPACT08WT?
For those seeking a portable, multifunctional AC unit, the Black + Decker BPACT08WT offers great value. It’s an excellent choice for medium-sized pop-up campers, providing cooling, ventilation, and dehumidification all in one unit.
How to Choose the Best AC for Your Pop-Up Camper
When choosing the best AC unit for your pop-up camper, here are a few factors to consider:
- Cooling Capacity: Look for an AC unit with enough cooling power to handle your camper’s size. For most pop-up campers, a unit between 5,000 and 13,500 BTU is sufficient.
- Energy Efficiency: Consider an energy-efficient model, especially if you’re camping off-grid or using a generator. An Energy Star-rated unit will help minimize power consumption.
- Installation Type: Decide whether you want a portable, window-mounted, or rooftop-mounted unit based on your camper’s configuration and your preference for ease of setup.
- Noise Levels: If you value peace and quiet, opt for an AC unit known for its quiet operation.
- Portability: For those who prefer flexibility, a portable AC unit may be the best option, offering the ability to move it around as needed.
Conclusion
Staying cool in your pop-up camper can make a huge difference in your overall camping experience, especially during hot summer days. From rooftop units like the Dometic Brisk II and Coleman Mach 8 to portable options like the Apachii 12V Portable Air Conditioner and Black + Decker BPACT08WT, there are plenty of excellent AC units to keep you comfortable while enjoying the outdoors. Choose the right AC unit based on your camper size, energy needs, and budget, and you’ll be ready to enjoy your camping trips without the heat holding you back.