Packing up the RV and hitting the open road offers endless travel options and an unrivaled sense of freedom. However, anyone who owns an RV will tell you that life in a small space can be challenging. When you’re cooking, bathing and sleeping all in one room of your house, you’ll soon see the need for a clean and comfortable living space.
With lots going on in an enclosed space, humidity can become a real issue for RV roamers. Showering, cooking dinner and breathing will increase the humidity inside your RV, making it far less cozy and more clammy. Once water vapor comes into contact with more excellent surfaces inside the van, it will turn into condensation, leaving the RV susceptible to dampness and mold.
You also have to keep your RV when keeping it in long-term storage as you don’t want to come back to your place covered in mold or worse.
It’s well worth investing in a dehumidifier to keep conditions in your RV comfortable. By removing excess water vapor from the air, the dehumidifier will help keep your RV in prime condition and keep you a happy camper no matter the conditions.
| 💡 Pro Tip: If you also want to keep your air clean in your RV, then look at what we think is the best RV air purifier. |
| Why You Can Trust Our Recommendations We’ve tested our fair share of dehumidifiers and know what to look for when recommending units for your needs. Here’s what we looked for when making our selections: ✅ RV floor space — American RVs can range from 400 square feet for a large class A motorhome to 60 square feet for a teardrop camper. We identified the right size dehumidifier for the space for different types of RVs. Larger dehumidifiers take up more space which is always at a premium when using an RV, so getting the right size for your space is key. ✅ Bucket vs. hose — Tiny RVs don’t have any drainage system, so you are better with a bucket system. Larger systems are likely to have a grey water drain system that allows for a hose which is super helpful for those leaving the RV in long-term storage as they wouldn’t be able to empty the bucket. ✅ Power — While many large RVs come equipped with electricity, we wanted to avoid very power-hungry dehumidifiers that might drain the generator too much. We chose only units that pulled a minimal amount of electricity for small RVs. |
If you don’t have time to read our full article, here are our top three for quick reference:
| 🏕️ Best for Campers and Pop-Up Tents | 🚐 Best for Class B RVs | 🚌 Best for Class C RVs | |
|---|---|---|---|
| It doesn’t perform too well in high-humidity environments | Pure Enrichment® PureDry | Pro Breeze Electric Dehumidifier | |
  |  |  | |
| PROS 👍 | It works fast and doesn’t take long to suck up humidity | Easy setup can start drying out your RV quickly | Good ratio of water removal for small spaces |
| CONS 👎 | Doesn’t perform too well in high-humidity environments | Might be underpowered for larger RV’s | Will not be suitable for larger RVs |
| ROOM SIZE 📏 | Up to 66.6 sq. ft. | Up to 110 sq. ft. | Up to 215 sq. ft. |
| WEIGHT ⚖️ | 1.2 lbs (0.5 kg) | 2.2 lbs (1 kg) | 2.4 lbs (1.1 kg) |
| SPECIAL FEATURES ⭐ | Renewable solution to excess moisture | Water tank holds up to 0.8 liters (27 fluid ounces) | The water tank holds up to 0.46 liters (16 fluid ounces) |
| MORE DETAILS 🔍 | Eva-Dry Wireless Mini Dehumidifier E-333 | Pure Enrichment® PureDry | The water tank holds up to 0.8 liters (27 fluid ounces) |
| PRICE 💵 | $14.97 | Price not available | $44.86 |
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Here is our list of the best dehumidifiers from the smallest campers to large class A RVs:
1. Best for Campers/Pop-Up Tents: Eva-Dry Wireless Mini Dehumidifier E-333
Look into this mini dehumidifier if you have a tiny camper or tent — it uses no electricity but silica gels that need recharging every 20-30 days.
While this type of dehumidifier will not be good enough for any RV much bigger than those with 60 Sq Ft of floor space, it requires no power outlet or requirement to empty the water. The Eva-Dry is one of our top recommendations for those looking to keep a car cabin dry, so it can also help to keep your small camper free of moisture.
You will instantly know when this works, as the silica gel beads will be orange when they soak up humidity. When they turn green, they are at capacity and it is time to dry them out and start over. To recharge, plug it in until the light turns blue, which takes about a day.
The unit is completely silent, too, meaning disturbance-free operation. Despite its difference, it still does well at eliminating moisture and odors.
What we really like
What we think could be better
SPECS & FEATURES
| HouseFresh Rating: | ★★★☆☆ |
| Dehumidification Capacity | 6oz per day (177ml per day) |
| Coverage Area | Up to 66.6 sq. ft. (assuming ceiling height of 5ft) |
| Features | Renewable solution to excess moisture |
| Construction Material | Plastic |
| Airflow | 6 Ounces |
| Sound Level | 47 dB when ducted |
| Power Consumption | 22.5 watts (when recharging) |
| Dimensions | 4.75H x 6.25W x 1.25D inches (12H x 15.8W x 3.2D cm) |
| Weight | 1.2 lbs (0.5 kg) |
| Warranty | 5 Years |
| Price | $14.97 |
2. Best for Class B RVs: Pure Enrichment® PureDry
We were impressed with Pure Enrichment when we reviewed their portable PureZone mini, now one of the air purifiers we recommend for RVs.
The PureDry is a mini dehumidifier that removes up to 300ml/day and is good enough for spaces up to 110 Sq Ft, so aimed at smaller RVs and campers. Price-wise, it’s higher than the Eva-Dry option, but it can remove much more water but will need to be plugged in.
It’s one of our top picks for smaller RVs due to its size-to-water removal ratio and a generous five-year warranty, which is rare with similarly priced competitors. This is our top option for keeping a small RV dry.
What we really like
What we think could be better
Specs and Features
| HouseFresh Rating: | ★★★★☆ |
| Dehumidification Capacity | 10oz per day (300ml per day) |
| Coverage Area | Up to 110 sq. ft. |
| Features | Water tank holds up to 0.8 liters (27 fluid ounces) |
| Construction Material | Plastic |
| Airflow | 188 cc/min |
| Sound Level | 47 dB when ducted |
| Power Consumption | 25 watts |
| Dimensions | 7D x 8W x 11H inches (17.7D x 20.3 x 28H cm) |
| Weight | 2.2lbs (1kg) |
| Warranty | 5 Years |
| Price | Price not available |
3. Best for Class C RVs: Pro Breeze Electric Dehumidifier
One of the top-selling dehumidifiers thanks to its low price. While we still prefer the Pure Enrichment PureDry as it can remove more water, this option is solid for those with smaller RVs.
The Pro Breeze Electric Dehumidifier works well for an RV in large parts, thanks to how little space it takes up. Its small footprint allows you to set this up anywhere in an RV that may be on the smaller side. This fits snugly on a counter or tucked out of the way into a corner so it can run without disturbing anyone or anything.
Despite its size, the unit can cover enough space to create a noticeable difference inside your RV. It works best in warmer conditions, too, with temperatures above 59°F. Additionally, the dehumidifier is designed energy-efficient so that you can run it for hours without worry.
This unit has no smart features besides the fact that it auto-detects when the tank is full. An indicator light will shine on the front of the dehumidifier near the power switch. This way, you will know at a glance whether it is time to check on the reservoir tank.
What we really like
What we think could be better
SPECS & FEATURES
| HouseFresh Rating: | ★★★☆☆ |
| Dehumidification Capacity | 9oz per day (266ml per day) |
| Coverage Area | Up to 215 sq. ft. |
| Features | The water tank holds up to 0.46 liters (16 fluid ounces) |
| Construction Material | Plastic |
| Airflow | 12 CMPH |
| Sound Level | 42 dB |
| Power Consumption | 23 watts |
| Dimensions | 6D x 6W x 8.5H inches (15.2D x 15.2W x 22H cm) |
| Weight | 2.4 lbs (1kg) |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
| Price | $44.86 |
4. Best for Class A RVs: Midea Cube Dehumidifier
Most residential dehumidifiers have relatively small water tanks, so they need to be emptied once or multiple times daily. The Midea cube brings a new design to the dehumidifier market its stackable cube shape allows for a three times large water tank, perfect for those looking to use it in a large RV.
The design also means it can reduce its size for easy compact storage when not being used. Those looking to keep their large RV free of moisture during long-term storage will be glad to see that this dehumidifier also comes with a drain hose and pump so water can be removed and go directly into your grey water tank, so no need to change the bucket.
Another great feature for those using it for long-term storage is that it has WIFI capabilities and so you can check on performance via the Android/Apple app to check it’s working well even if you are not in that location.
For those looking at even the largest RVs, the Midea cube will be more than capable of keeping the humidifier levels perfect.
What we really like
What we think could be better
SPECS & FEATURES
| HouseFresh Rating: | ★★★★☆ |
| Dehumidification Capacity | 35oz per day (1035ml per day) |
| Coverage Area | Up to 3500 sq ft (can deal with any size RV) |
| Features | 4.2 gallon water bucket with drain hose and built-in pump and App support |
| Construction Material | Plastic |
| Airflow | 188 cc/min |
| Sound Level | 47 dB when ducted |
| Power Consumption | 314 watts |
| Dimensions | 14.76D x 14.45W x 14.57H inches (37.5D x 36.7W x 37H cm) |
| Weight | 45.2 lbs (20.5 kg) |
| Warranty | 5 Years |
| Price | $249.00 |
5. Best for 300 sq ft Spaces: ToLife TZ-C2
This is a new type of “Midi” dehumidifier that sits between the popular mini sizes and the large energy-heavy compressor-style units that are used in the home.
While it might not have the power to deal with a humid basement, this device can remove 1000ml of water daily and be perfect for an RV of around 300 sq ft. The big benefit of choosing this over a much larger device is that it uses much less electricity – in our tests, it only pulled 98 watts at its highest speed.
One thing that also stands out with this unit is its quiet operation at only 40dB when many compressor types get close to 60dB, and when the water needs changing, the LEDs will light red so you can easily see when it’s needed.
Finally, at less than $99, this device will not break the bank but still has enough power to keep a small RV clear of humidity issues.
What we really like
What we think could be better
SPECS & FEATURES
| HouseFresh rating: | ★★★★☆ |
| Water it can remove in a day: | 2.1 pints (1 liter) |
| Recommended room size: | 250 sq. ft. (24 mᶟ) |
| Water tank capacity: | 95 oz (2.8 litres) |
| Dimensions (in inches / in cm): | 8.27D x 5.55W x 13.78H inches (21 x 14 x 35 cm) |
| Weight (in pounds / in kg): | 5.99 lbs (2.71 kg) |
| Noise levels: | 30 — 40dB |
| Other features: | Portable with a removable tank, automatic shutoff and sleep mode. |
| Warranty | 1 year |
What To Look For When Buying a Dehumidifier for an RV
A dehumidifier will help keep your RV in good condition and keep you a happy camper no matter the conditions. Here are some tips to help you find a good unit for your RV:
1. Measure the cabin space and find a unit that will cover it
The most important thing when buying any dehumidifier is getting the right size unit for the space you want to keep dry.
For smaller RVs and campers, you can get away with non-electric dehumidification, but as you get bigger spaces of more than 110 sq ft, you will want to look at mini dehumidifiers that range from 100 sq ft up to 300 sq ft.
To control a larger space, you can use multiple dehumidifiers or look at residential designs like the Midea Cube, with more power needs but with features like a pump, hose and even wifi support via an app.
2. Decide if you should get a dehumidifier with a hose
You should consider sticking to smaller dehumidifiers for general usage as they use low power and are generally quiet.
But if you are keeping your RV in a humid location for long-term storage, you should look into buying a bigger unit that has a hose, so you can leave it running without requiring attention.
3. Find a dehumidifier with auto-shut-off mode
Most modern dehumidifiers come with an auto-shut-off that will switch the unit off when the water bucket is full, so ensure this is included in the dehumidifier you choose for your RV.
Hopefully, you will be able to find the right dehumidifier for your RV from our list, but if you have any questions, feel free to email me.
| 🤔 Why should you deal with humidity in your RV? 1. Too much moisture in the air can interfere with your body’s cooling mechanisms and leave you dehydrated. 2. When humidity levels are low, you can lose water vapor through the pores in your skin. This can cause dry skin, chapped lips, scratchy throat and itchy nose. 3. Eczema and other forms of dermatitis are exacerbated by humidity. When sweat remains on your skin in humid conditions, it can lead to heat rash. 4. Humidity can increase the amount of mucus in your nose and throat, causing congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and post-nasal drip. |
Wrapping Up
An RV doesn’t always have ideal ventilation. So, moisture can quickly build up; when it does, there can be significant damage. This is typically found in areas like under bed frames or inside storage compartments because these areas don’t see a lot of air circulation.
When this happens, it can lead to mold and mildew. This can harm the carpets and wooden material inside the RV not to mention the health concerns that come with breathing in mold spores.
That is why a dehumidifier is beneficial for the well-being of your RV. It can ensure that moisture will build up to a manageable amount and lead to future problems.
Perhaps you have not realized it, but an RV can be the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew due to excessive moisture. This can wreak havoc throughout the camper, from the bedding to the wood. If left unchecked, it can also lead to health concerns caused by inhaling these spores.
That is where a dehumidifier will help you out the most. It can quickly dry out the area, leaving your RV feeling fresh whenever you step inside it. The best option will depend on the size of your RV, so feel free to pick from the recommendations from our list above.
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
