2024 Best Fan For Van Life – 10 Top Options From a Vanlifer (plus multiple buying options)
I use my van roof vent fan daily. It’s a small appliance, but it has a monumental impact. It helps me with temperature and moisture control, as well as create airflow to help with any odors from cooking.
I travel full-time with my dog, so having a reliable vent fan was a must have in my DIY van build.
The two primary competitors for the best fan for van life Dometic’s Fantastic Fan and Maxxairs MaxxFan. There are many model options for each brand, each with variations in function and feature.
In this article I’ll:
- recommend the best fan for van life depending on your specific build needs
- compare the differences between the fantastic fan and the maxxfan models
The Best Fan For Van Life – Overall
MaxxFan Deluxe 5100K
Price: ~$250
Fan Speeds: 10-speeds
Rain Shield: Yes
Controls: On unit
Thermostat: Yes
Fan Direction: Intake + Exhaust
The best van roof vent fan overall is the MaxxFan Deluxe 5100K. This fan has the best features for its price.
Compared to its closest MaxxAir model alternatives, MaxxFan 4751KS and MaxxFan 7000K, the MaxxFan Deluxe 5100K stands out.
While it’s approximately $50 more than the 4751KS model, it comes with the ability to operate in the rain (not just sense and auto-off like the 4751KS model).
In my experience, operating a fan during rainy weather is a must have for van life!
Although the higher model, Deluxe 7000K, comes with a remote control, that’s the only additional feature compared to the 5100K and it increases the price by ~$100. While I have (and love!) the Deluxe 7000K and use the remote daily, if you’re on a budget the extra cost isn’t completely necessary.
When compared to the closest Fantastic Fan model, Fantastic Fan 3350, the MaxxFan Deluxe 5100K is the clear winner. For under $300, the MaxxFan Deluxe 5100K has 10-speeds and can operate in the rain.
Fantastic Fan 3350 has all the same features as the MaxxFan Deluxe 5100K except it only has 3-speeds and can sense and auto-shut for rainfall but can’t operate in the rain. And it’s approximately $100 more, for fewer features.
The Best Fan For Van Life – On A Budget
MaxxFan Plus 4000K
Price: ~$190
Fan Speeds: 10-speeds
Rain Shield: No
Controls: On unit
Thermostat: No
Fan Direction: Intake + Exhaust
There are only two full size van roof vent options which fall below $200: MaxxFan 4301K and MaxxFan Plus 4000K. Both price in at around $175 and $200 respectively.
The primary feature differences in these two options are fan speed and airflow direction. For an additional ~$25 the MaxxFan Plus 4000K provides 10 fan speed options, whereas the MaxxFan 4301K only offers 4 speeds.
You’ll also gain the ability to reverse airflow and intake air in addition to exhaust by upgrading from the MaxxFan 4301K to the MaxxFan Plus 4000K – this alone, in my opinion, is worth $25.
The best budget van roof vent fan is the MaxxFan Plus 4000K.
The Best Fan For Van Life – With A Remote
MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K
Price: ~$350
Fan Speeds: 10-speeds
Rain Shield: Yes
Controls: On unit + Remote Control
Thermostat: Yes
Fan Direction: Intake + Exhaust
There are only two van roof vent contenders who qualify with a remote control: MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K and Fantastic Fan 7350.
MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K comes with 10-speeds, intake and exhaust directions, a thermostat, ability to operate in the rain, and an electric opening lid. Plus the remote control.
The 7000K model is white, and the 7500K model is identical and comes in black (smoke). Most people purchase the 7000K model to match their white vans, but I installed the black MaxxFan Deluxe 7500K on my van because my van’s exterior is black, so it blends better.
For more information, check out my full MaxxFan Deluxe review.
Fantastic Fan 7350 beats MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K on fan speed – it has 14-speeds compared to MaxxFan’s 10.
Similarly to MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K, Fantastic Fan 7350 also has intake and exhaust directions, a built-in thermostat and an electric opening lid.
However, the Fantastic Fan 7350 cannot operate in the rain – but it does have a sensor which will auto-shut the lid when it starts to rain.
This category is tricky to determine a winner based on features alone. Fantastic Fan 7350 has better speed options, but MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K can operate in the rain. So, pricing will be the tie breaker.
Fantastic Fan 7350 costs approximately $450 while MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K costs closer to $350.
The best remote control roof vent fan is MaxxAir MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K.
The Best Fan For Van Life – Small Space Installation
MaxxFan Dome
Price: ~$70
Fan Speeds: 1-speed
Rain Shield: Yes
Controls: On unit
Thermostat: No
Fan Direction: Exhaust Only
MaxxAir MaxxFan Dome is the clear winner for best small space van roof vent fan. Unlike typical full size roof vents which need a 14×14” installation hole, this fan only requires a 6 ¼” installation hole.
Additionally, its ability to be installed on your van roof or sidewall opens up many more options for installation depending on your layout and limited roof real estate.
While it does not move as much air as the standard size van roof vents, this is still a powerful roof vent for its size.
Some reviewers suggest that roof installation is able to move more air than a wall install. Although this hasn’t been verified it is something to consider when deciding your install location.
Also consider upgrading to the MaxxFan Dome Plus, which includes an interior ring LED light.
Also consider adding an interior 12 volt fan for your van build for additional air circulation and cooling. This Sirocco fan is my favorite, and I’ve installed two of them in my own build.
The Best Fan For Van Life – Comparison Table
I’ll be the first to admit – the way Maxxair and Fantastic Fan’s are labeled is really confusing. The numbering system doesn’t seem to have an obvious rhyme or reason which makes it difficult to tell what you’re looking at or how to compare models.
This article will make understanding the different models easy!
I compiled the table below to help outline the primary differences between models.
Not sure if you need a fan for van life? Check out these 6 reasons you need campervan ventilation
MaxxAir Fan Vs Fantastic Fan – Which Is The Best Fan For Van Life?
While there are many other brands of van roof vent fans, the primary players are MaxxAir MaxxFans and Dometic Fantastic Fans.
Each brand offers several model variations with different features and pricing.
In my research for this article, I also reviewed the Hike Crew 14” RV roof vent fan, Heng’s 90043-CR fan, Heng’s 71112-C vent fan and Heng’s 71111-C1G1.
However, after researching the features, availability, positive reviews (or lack thereof) and price point, I determined these fans do not compare to the available options with MaxxAir or Dometic’s options as they don’t provide as good of value or features.
Especially given similar features and price points are available with both MaxxAir and Dometic, I chose to stick with well known brands with better overall customer satisfaction in this article.
Below are the best fans for van life sorted by MaxxAir MaxxFan models (least expensive to most expensive) followed by Dometic Fantastic Fans (also sorted least to most expensive).
1. Maxxair MaxxFan 4301K
The Maxxair MaxxFan 4301K is your barebones roof vent fan. It operates as an exhaust fan only and comes with 4-speeds. MaxxFan 4301K is marketed as a low profile van roof vent fan, which would be good for anyone concerned with overhead clearance of their vehicle. The added height from this van roof vent fan installation is under 3”.
It’s also important to note that MaxxFan roof vents come in three primary product categories: MaxxFan, MaxxFan Plus and MaxxFan Deluxe. The 4301K is the only option reviewed here that is in the MaxxFan category.
Pros:
✅ Affordable (usually under $150)
✅ Low clearance
Cons:
❌ No intake air
❌ Can’t operate in rain
❌ Limited to 4-speed settings
❌ No remote
❌ No thermostat
Closest FanTastic Fan Option: Fantastic 1250
2. Maxxair MaxxFan Plus 4000K
The Maxxair MaxxFan Plus 4000K builds on previous models and includes intake as well as exhaust airflow directions. In addition, the Maxxfan 4000k has 10-speeds.
This is where Maxxfan numbering makes absolutely no sense. The previous 4301K model, with a higher product number, actually includes fewer features.
Pros:
✅ Affordable (usually under $200)
✅ 10-speed settings
✅ Intake and exhaust
Cons:
❌ Can’t operate in rain
❌ No remote
❌ No thermostat
Closest FanTastic Fan Option: Fantastic 1250
3. Maxxair MaxxFan Plus 4751KS
Maxxair MaxxFan Plus 4751KS turns it up a notch by incorporating a thermostat, a rain sensor and an electric lid. This is where the MaxxFan product family starts to get interesting.
In my opinion, if you’re going to spend money on a van roof vent fan you should consider this model, or a higher model, like 5100K or 7000K detailed further below.
The thermostat option is great because it allows you to set a temperature and the fan will automatically open/close or adjust the fan speed in order to maintain that temperature.
I love to use this feature when I leave for the day and know the van will warm up before I get back. The thermostat will automatically turn the fan on when it’s needed so I don’t have to run the battery down by having a fan on all day unnecessarily.
While this model can’t operate in the rain, the rain sensor will automatically close the lid to keep your van dry, even if you’re away.
Pros:
✅ 10-speed settings
✅ Intake and exhaust
✅ Thermostat
✅ Rain sensor automatically shuts lid
Cons:
❌ Can’t operate in rain
❌ No remote
Closest FanTastic Fan Option: Fantastic 2250
4. Maxxair MaxxFan Deluxe 5100K
We’ve now entered Deluxe territory! Just like the previous models, it has intake and exhaust fan settings, a thermostat and an electric operating lid.
However, instead of just sensing the rain and shutting the lid automatically, this MaxxFan can actually stay on while it’s raining without flooding the inside of your van.
Pros:
✅ 10-speed settings
✅ Intake and exhaust
✅ Thermostat
✅ Operates in rain
Cons:
❌ Expensive
❌ No remote
Closest FanTastic Fan Option: Fantastic 3350
5. Maxxair MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K
In my opinion, this is the best fan you can buy. The Maxxair MaxxFan Deluxe 7000k has all the bells and whistles. In addition to intake and exhaust fan direction, a thermostat, 10 fan speeds, and ability to operate in the rain, this MaxxFan Deluxe has a remote control.
What’s the big deal about a remote control? You might ask. Let me tell you. Imagine you’ve brushed your teeth, put on your pj’s, done a final check to make sure everything is locked up for the night, and gotten really cozy in your bed… and then you realize you forgot to adjust the fan and the only option you have is to slowly freeze to death during the night or to get out of your cozy little spot to go turn it down. And then you remember you have a remote control. Trust me, it’s nirvana. You want the remote.
This is the fan I have installed in my van and it’s never let me down. I use it daily (for years) and it’s been invaluable. In my opinion, it was worth every penny I spent on it.
Pros:
✅ 10-speed settings
✅ Intake and exhaust
✅ Thermostat
✅ Operates in rain
✅ Remote control
Cons:
❌ Expensive
Closest FanTastic Fan Option: Fantastic 7350
6. MaxxAir MaxxFan Dome
If you’re low on real estate space on your roof for a full size van roof vent fan then the MaxxAir MaxxFan Dome is a great option. Instead of the typical 14×14” hole required for installing a full size roof vent this compact fan only requires a 6 ¼” installation hole.
Additionally, MaxxFan Dome can be installed vertically on a wall (with an additional rain shield to keep it waterproof when operating in rainy weather), which opens up many more installation options for someone with limited roof space.
While MaxxFan Dome won’t move as much air as the full size options, it’s still a powerful roof vent option for smaller spaces.
Pros:
✅ Affordable
✅ Operates in rain
✅ Can be installed on roof or wall
✅ Does not require large space for
Cons:
❌ Limited to 1-speed settings
❌ No intake air
❌ No remote
❌ No thermostat
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7. Dometic Fantastic Vent 1250
The Fantastic vent 1250 is the lower line Dometic fan model. It has three fan speeds and reversible air flow direction, allowing it to act as an intake or exhaust fan.
Pros:
✅ Affordable
✅ Intake and exhaust
Cons:
❌ Can’t operate in rain
❌ Limited to 3-speed settings
❌ No remote
❌ No thermostat
Closest MaxxAir MaxxFan Roof Vent Option: MaxxFan Plus 4000K
8. Dometic Fantastic Vent 2250
Fantastic’s 2250 roof vent fan is similar to the 1250 model above. It includes three fan speeds and can intake or exhaust airflow.
Additionally, it comes with a thermostat feature which allows the fan to automatically adjust speed to maintain a set temperature in your van.
Pros:
✅ Intake and exhaust
✅ Thermostat
Cons:
❌ Expensive
❌ Can’t operate in rain
❌ Limited to 3-speed settings
❌ No remote
Closest MaxxAir MaxxFan Roof Vent Option: MaxxFan Plus 4751KS
9. Dometic Fantastic Vent 3350
Domestic Fantastic Vent 3350 is where features start to get interesting! While the Fantastic Fan 3350 maintains the same features available in lower models, it also includes a rain sensor and an automatic lid.
The primary downside to fantastic fan’s is their inability to run while it’s raining (unless you’ve added an additional rainshield to your install). Fantastic Fan 3350 and higher models have adjusted for this (kind of) by incorporating a rain sensor into the fan.
When the sensor determines it’s raining, it automatically closes the lid. This is a great feature if you leave your fan on while you’re away from your van. The lingering downside is that you’re still unable to use your fan in the rain.
Additionally, some users review that the rain sensor can get confused in high humidity and auto-close even if it’s not truly raining.
Pros:
✅ Intake and exhaust
✅ Thermostat
✅ Rain sensor automatically shuts lid
Cons:
❌ Expensive
❌ Can’t operate in rain
❌ Limited to 3-speed settings
❌ No remote
Closest MaxxAir MaxxFan Roof Vent Option: MaxxFan Deluxe 5100K
10. Dometic Fantastic Vent 7350
Dometic Fantastic roof vent fan 7350 is the top of the line fantastic fan. It includes all of the features the lower models have, like reversible airflow, a built-in thermostat, and rain sensing. Additionally, this fan jumps from 3-speed on previous models to 14-speeds.
The deal gets even better with a remote control, which allows you to change speed, air direction, and thermostat settings from anywhere within your van.
Pros:
✅ Intake and exhaust
✅ Thermostat
✅ Rain sensor automatically shuts lid
✅ 14-speed settings
✅ Remote control
Cons:
❌ Expensive
❌ Can’t operate in rain
Closest MaxxAir MaxxFan Roof Vent Option: MaxxFan Deluxe 7000K
How to Choose the Best Fan For Van Life
There are a number of features to consider when choosing the best camper van roof vent fan.
1. Number of speeds
The number of available speeds on your van roof vent fan will determine several things, including how specific you can be with your airflow and how much control you’ll have over the energy you use.
Van roof vent fans that have built-in thermostats operate by turning on or off and by adjusting the fan speed in order to maintain a preset temperature. The more fan speed options that are available, the easier and more likely it is that you can maintain your desired interior temperature.
Fans are governed by something called Affinity Laws. In a nutshell, when you increase fan speed you exponentially lose efficiency in airflow and power.
For this reason, fans are most efficient and consume the least amount of energy (exponentially) at lower speed settings. The more options you have the better you can tweak your usage for comfortable temperature and battery efficiency!
2. Energy draw
Not all fans are created equal. In general, MaxxAir and Dometic fans have been designed to have low energy draw. Typically, the “cheaper” the van roof vent, the less energy efficient it will be.
For van dwellers who rely on solar power to charge their batteries and power their systems, energy draw is a big consideration.
3. Rain Shield
There are three primary categories for van roof vents and rain: can’t operate in the rain, can’t operate in the rain but has a sensor which auto-shuts the lid when rain begins to fall, and can operate in the rain.
Not being able to operate in the rain would be an absolute deal breaker for me. Any time I leave my van, especially in the heat, I turn on the roof vent to keep the inside of my vehicle from becoming a sauna upon my return.
At a minimum you should consider a fan for van life that will automatically close in situations like this so you’re able to leave the roof vent open when you’re gone without being concerned that a surprise rainstorm will flood your van.
If you have it within your budget, I highly recommend a van roof vent that can operate in the rain. Realistically, when it’s raining is when you’ll be most appreciative for a fan that can vent moisture out of your van.
4. Direction of airflow
Lower end fans for van life will provide exhaust airflow (moving air out) but they don’t always come standard with intake airflow (moving air in). Both can be important in your ability to keep your van temperature controlled.
Fantastic fans reviewed here all come with intake and exhaust. Most of the MaxxFans also include both intake and exhaust, with the exception of MaxxFan 4301K and MaxxFan Dome, which only provide exhaust options.
If you plan to get two van roof vent fans it’s even more important to have one with an intake option. This allows you to set one roof vent to intake and the other to exhaust to get a great amount of airflow through your van to keep it cool and comfortable.
While my van only has one roof vent fan, I would strongly consider adding a second fan to a future build because of how much more airflow is possible.
5. Thermostat
This isn’t actually an air conditioning unit so total temperature control is limited, but van roof vent fans with a built-in thermostat can act similarly to one.
You decide what temperature to set the thermostat and then the fan will turn on/off or adjust its speed settings accordingly to meet and maintain that temperature in your van.
The limitation to this is that your fan can’t create an interior temperature that’s lower than the outside temperature. For example, if it’s 75* outside your fans can only cool the interior temperature to 75* – even if it’s set for 65*.
My favorite way to use the thermostat feature is when the weather gets really warm during the day and cools off significantly at night (especially common in the desert). I set the thermostat in my MaxxFan Deluxe and forget about it. When the van starts to get warm during the day the fan will automatically come on.
The same applies for nighttime, when the van cools off during sleep. I can set the thermostat and once the van gets too cold the fan will automatically shut down or slow down to keep the temperature inside the van comfortable.
This means I don’t have to run the fan constantly and I can save my battery power.
If it’s within your budget, a thermostat in your van roof vent is an incredibly handy feature and will provide added comfort long term.
6. Dimensions
Luckily, installation is fairly standard across van roof vents. This means that you can replace an existing roof vent with just about any other van roof vent on the market. The standard installation size is 14×14”. Some models (not reviewed here because of low value to price) come in 11×11″ sizes so keep an eye on this when deciding what to buy.
Beyond that, the dimensions of the fan itself (interior and exterior depth as well as roof footprint) can vary. If you’re installing solar panels or other items on the roof of your van you’ll need to consider how much space you’ll need for those and your roof vent.
For example, the MaxxAir fan models with a rainshield take up more than 14×14″ on your roof because of the longer shape of the rainshield itself.
Pro tip: if you’re installing a van roof vent with a lid that opens, be sure it’s far enough away from your solar panels that it cannot cast a shadow onto the panels which will make them less efficient at harvesting power.
Dimensions to consider are the obvious width and length, but also consider depth because this will increase the clearance required for your van.
7. Vent Fan Controls
Depending on where you install your van roof vent, it may or may not be easy to access the on-unit controls. You’ll want to consider where the vent fan controls are, and whether it comes with a remote.
If controls are on the unit itself then you’ll need to be able to reach it.
If there’s a remote controller, you’ll have more convenience with changing speed, turning it on or off, adjusting the thermostat, etc.
My fan is installed in the back corner of my van, above the bed. This makes it annoying to get to the on-unit controls unless I’m already in bed. Ultimately, I use the remote 99% of the time.
8. Ease of Install
Most van roof vents have a very similar installation process: cut a 14×14” hole in your van (which is slightly terrifying the first time you do it), seal it, and connect two wires.
It’s actually a fairly easy process compared to other van build installations. Installing my MaxxAir fan was one of the first things I completed on my build – it’s so easy even a beginner can do it!
The good news is that every van roof vent in this article comes with well rated installation instructions. Additionally, every fan except the MaxxFan Dome will be installed in a 14×14” space.
9. Budget
Everything always comes back to budget! The price for fan for van life can range from under $100 to over $400. That’s a fairly large price range for what essentially boils down to a gadget that moves air.
The real difference lies in the additional features – remote controls and thermostats being the more expensive side of the range. In my opinion, these features are worth the upfront cost because of the convenience they provide long-term.
Ultimately, you’ll have to decide how much the extra features are something you’ll need, and whether the value you’ll pay for them is worth the added convenience.
Are You Deciding What Appliances You Need In Your Build? Check Out These Additional Guides:
The Best 12V Fans
Best Fridge Options For Van Life
Van Wood Stoves
Diesel Heaters To Keep You Warm
Van Awnings To Keep You Cool
Campervan Toilets
Van Flooring Options
The Best Generators For Van Life
