Planar Portable Diesel Heater Review | Stay Warm for the Whole Year

Overlanding is all about adventure — exploring the outdoors, sleeping under the stars, and taking your home on wheels into places far from the city. But one thing can quickly make or break your trip: staying warm. Cold nights in a van, rooftop tent, or camper shell can turn an amazing trip into a miserable one. That’s where Planar portable diesel heaters come in.

If you’re wondering which Planar heater is right for overlanding, we’ve broken it down for you.

1. Planar 2D‑12V – Compact and Efficient

Planar Portable Diesel Heater in a Yellow Case 2D | Planar Distribution Ltd.

The Planar 2D‑12V is a great option if you’re travelling in a small van, rooftop tent, or truck canopy. It’s compact, light, and easy to install.

  • Heat output: 0.8–2 kW
  • Airflow: 34–75 m³/h
  • Fuel consumption: 0.1–0.24 L/h

This heater works well for small to medium spaces. It’s efficient enough to keep you warm overnight without using too much diesel. If your overlanding setup is simple, insulated, and doesn’t need a lot of heat, this is a solid choice.

You can check this particular model here: Planar 2D‑12V

2. Planar 4D‑12V – More Power for Bigger Spaces

Green Case 4D Portable Diesel Heater Front by Planar Diesel Heaters

For larger vans, camper shells, or overlanding setups that have longer ducting, the Planar 4D‑12V is a step up.

  • Heat output: 4 kW
  • Voltage: 12V
  • Fuel consumption: 0.24–0.5 L/h

This heater can quickly warm bigger spaces, even in very cold conditions. It’s still efficient but has more power for those who need stronger heat. If you often camp in alpine conditions or want your van or camper to warm up fast,  the 4D‑12V is a great choice.

You can check this particular model here: Planar 4D‑12V

3. Planar ARCTIC 4D‑12 – Designed for Extreme Cold

Portable Diesel Heater Planar ARCTIC 4D-12 Using Ultimatron Lithium Battery | Planar Distribution Ltd.

If you’re heading to very cold regions or high altitudes, the Planar ARCTIC 4D‑12 is the ultimate option.

  • Heat output: 4 kW
  • Special features: Built for extreme temperatures
  • Durability: Can handle harsh environments

This heater is perfect for long overlanding trips in winter or in mountainous areas where temperatures can drop well below freezing. It delivers steady, dry heat and can run efficiently even in harsh conditions.

You can check this particular model here: Planar ARCTIC 4D‑12

How to Choose the Right Portable Diesel Heater?

Here’s a simple way to decide:

  • Small, insulated vans or tents: 2D‑12V
  • Medium to large campers or longer ducting: 4D‑12V
  • Extreme cold or high-altitude trips: ARCTIC 4D‑12

Other things to consider:

  • Insulation: Better insulation means you may need less heat.
  • Trip length: Longer trips require efficient fuel use.
  • Altitude: Some heaters perform better at high elevations.
  • Space layout: A Bigger space or multiple compartments need more power.

Ready to Heat Up Your Overlanding Adventures?

We offer all these Planar portable diesel heaters online or in our Langley, BC store. Pick the one that suits your setup and enjoy warm, cozy nights no matter where your journey takes you.