Reasons You Need Camper Van Ventilation

One of the most important components to any van build is ventilation. This was a top priority for me when I was designing my own build. After several years living full-time in my converted van I can confidently say camper van ventilation is crucial to a comfortable experience.

There’s a few ways to achieve ventilation, including windows that open, interior fans, and most importantly (!!!) a roof vent fan.

Roof vent fans can be fairly pricy (some over $400) so many DIY builders question whether or not it’s necessary for them. You aren’t alone! Here’s a quick breakdown of all the reasons why you need a vent fan.

Benefits Of Having a Van Roof Vent Fan

There are many benefits to having a camper van roof vent fan! I truly could not imagine living in my van without my MaxxFan Deluxe (full review of that here).

1. Privacy

This is one benefit most people don’t think of! I’ve got to say, I underestimated how beneficial this is until I was living full-time in my campervan.

By installing a campervan vent fan on the roof you inherently have far more privacy than you would if you opened a window. 

The roof installation allows you to have airflow, ventilation and increased comfort inside your van without having to open windows and shades and let the entire world know you’re inside and what you’re up to. 

I have found the van roof vent fan to come in extra handy while stealth camping in cities. It means I can cook inside my vehicle without the door or windows open and still vent smoke or food smells out quickly, quietly and stealthily.

It also means I can have air circulation at night without sleeping with windows open. Again, this is especially handy when stealth camping in cities or other places that feel less safe or are a bit noisier.

2. Airflow

Airflow is a big deal in a tiny tin can. If you’re parked in the sun your vehicle is going to warm up quickly, even if it’s not too hot outside. Using a roof vent to circulate outside air through your vehicle can help keep it cool and comfortable.

Airflow is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). Some fans can move more air, faster, than other fans. CFM will allow you to compare different van roof vent fans equally.

In my experience, there’s a point in which more airflow isn’t necessary. The MaxxFan Deluxe moves so much air on its fastest setting that it actually creates a wind tunnel inside my Ford Transit.

Another great way to increase airflow is by installing a 12 volt fan inside of your van!

3. Moisture Control

Moisture control inside of a van is really important, and not always considered when designing a build.

Everyday tasks, like cooking, showering and even breathing will produce moisture. Moisture inside your van can create condensation. Condensation happens when warm moist air meets cold surfaces (like the walls of your van) and forms water droplets. Ultimately, condensation is more likely to occur when the temperature inside the van is different than the air outside.

Even in the middle of winter you’ll need campervan ventilation to extract moisture. Having a way for the moist air to escape is especially important when it’s cold outside. I always make sure to have my fan open (but not always on) in cold weather. Additionally, running a diesel heater can help dry out the air while keeping you warm.

PS – Heaters that are propane based will create more moisture.

Additionally, if you’ve ever heard of van and RV mattresses getting moldy, it’s usually caused by high humidity levels – another good reason to suck out that moist air.

I think we can all agree water inside your van walls is NOT a good thing. It will increase the risk of rust in your vehicle. Additionally, water can lead to mold which is not only gross but potentially unhealthy as well – and really difficult to get rid of once it starts.

4. Temperature Control

It’s one thing to be able to open your windows and doors and allow air to flow through your van and cool it off. It’s another thing to add a van roof vent fan that can actually push or pull air in. It gets the job done so much faster.

Temperature control is especially important for me because I live in my van with my dog!

Even the best insulated van will require a van roof vent to help exhaust hot air or push in cooler air.

5. Odor Control

There is a lot of stuff that happens in a van- cooking, cleaning, using the toilet. They can make it stinky, and without a roof vent all that stinky stuff lingers.

If you’d like to be able to cook curry in your van, or do a number two, and not have to smell these things for the next 3 hours then campervan ventilation with a roof vent fan is definitely for you!

6. Safety

It’s important to be able to evacuate air from your vehicle quickly in case of a propane leak, carbon monoxide leak or other toxic gasses being present.

This is particularly important if you have anything powered by propane, or if you have a diesel heater. These appliances can produce dangerous gasses which *should* vent outside of your vehicle but if there’s a problem you’ll need to vent your van quickly to avoid poisoning or explosive buildup.

Picking The Right Campervan Ventilation

Hopefully I’ve convinced you of the importance of campervan ventilation! Check out this article on the best fan for van life to determine the right roof vent fan for your build.