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The Best Portable Air Conditioner

By Thom Dunn

Thom Dunn is a writer focusing on home heating and cooling. He once blew up a power strip with a space heater and a Marshall half-stack.

If you don’t have central air, if a window AC won’t work in your situation, and if a ductless mini-split or heat pump system would be too complex or costly for you, a portable air conditioner is your next best option.

The Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL is quieter, more powerful, and more efficient than any other portable AC we’ve tested. It’s expensive, like most portable ACs, but it also functions as a heater, and that rare ability makes it a valuable all-season climate controller.

Everything we recommend

Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL

The best portable air conditioner.

This portable AC’s powerful inverter compressor and its secondary role as a heater help it dial in a precise comfort level quietly, effectively, and efficiently for most of the year.

Buying Options

May be out of stock

Midea Duo MAP12S1TBL

Similar cooling, less power, no heat.

Just as quiet as our top pick, this version costs less, has a little less cooling power, and does not include a heater.

Frigidaire FHPH142AC1

Powerful, quiet, less efficient.

This cooling and heating AC is not an inverter model, but it’s just as powerful as our top pick, and it spreads the air more evenly around the room.

LG LP1419IVSM

Quiet, efficient, convenient, but only cools.

This portable AC has an efficient variable-speed compressor, a built-in hose for easier setup, and a convenient storage pocket—but it lacks a heating mode.

Budget pick

Black+Decker BPACT14WT

Just as cool, not as costly.

This popular model matches our other picks in cooling performance but feels cheaper—it has chintzy buttons and lacks conveniences such as cord storage.

EcoFlow Wave 2

Actually portable.

This battery-powered portable AC offers a variety of charging options so you can stay comfortable in any situation, though it isn’t as powerful as our other picks.

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The Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL delivers better cooling performance than other portable ACs while using less energy and making less noise, thanks in part to its variable-speed inverter compressor and its hose-in-hose design. In our tests, it was good at distributing the cooled air, never leaving more than a 1-degree temperature difference across the room.

The Duo MAP14HS1TBL offers all of the standard smart-home capabilities, as well, including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant support, and the smartphone app and the included remote offer even greater options for custom control.

Its built-in heat pump shifts from cooling to heating to maintain equilibrium at whatever temperature you’ve set, so you can use it for climate control in your home year-round instead of just during the summer.

The Midea Duo MAP12S1TBL is a slightly smaller version of our top pick that offers all the same amenities, minus the heat pump. It’s technically less efficient than our top pick because of the way that portable AC efficiency is calculated, but it has the same inverter compressor and dual-hose setup, and it performs nearly as well.

The Frigidaire FHPH142AC1 impressed us not only with its ability to maintain a steady chill throughout the room within one-half of a degree but also with its surprisingly low-volume performance.

Although it doesn’t have the same efficiency as an inverter model, this single-hose Frigidaire AC is just as powerful and nearly as quiet.

This Frigidaire model also offers heating capabilities for the cooler months. The window-panel kit isn’t quite as robust as those of competitors, however, and that made the installation process a little more frustrating in our tests.

If the Midea Duo models are unavailable, the single-hose LG LP1419IVSM is another option for a portable AC with an efficient variable-speed, inverter-powered compressor.

Like our runner-up, it has an impressively simple setup process and lacks heating capabilities, but it’s also slightly more powerful than our runner-up.

This LG model is also the most self-contained portable air conditioner we’ve tested, with a built-in hose and storage compartments for the window panels and remote that make it easy to pack up and roll away for the winter.

The popular, affordable Black+Decker BPACT14WT delivers where it counts—in cooling performance—better than anything else in its price range. But it’s a little rough around the edges compared with our other picks: Its operation is louder, its controls are clunkier, and it lacks the nice details we like about some other models.

Even so, it gets the job done, and it’s a fine choice if you need a portable AC at something closer to a window-AC price.

The EcoFlow Wave 2 Portable Air Conditioner is the rare portable AC that’s truly portable, with a built-in battery that can provide up to eight hours of heating or cooling (plus, you can run it on fan mode for even longer). It doesn’t need to be vented out a window, either, so it’s an ideal option for tents, RVs, and semi-enclosed spaces such as seasonal patios. This EcoFlow model isn’t quite as powerful as our other picks, so it can’t make an entire room comfortable—but if you aim it at a few individual people, it can work wonders.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, our pick: midea duo map14hs1tbl, runner-up: midea duo map12s1tbl, also great: frigidaire fhph142ac1, also great: lg lp1419ivsm, also great: ecoflow wave 2 portable air conditioner, budget pick: black+decker bpact14wt, what to look forward to, the competition, care and maintenance, what about dual-hose models.

We’ve been considering and testing air conditioners in general since 2013 and evaluating portable units in particular since 2016. In that time, we’ve put over 150 hours into researching and testing the full field, spending dozens of hours focused on portables specifically. We’ve considered more than 200 portable models and performed hands-on trials with nearly three dozen of the best options available. We’ve met with manufacturers at trade shows and events, corresponded with sources over years of interviews, and combed through volumes of Department of Energy material about AC efficiency standards.

Staff writer Thom Dunn has written Wirecutter guides to window air conditioners , room fans , space heaters , and more. He has also published articles for The Huffington Post , Upworthy , Vice , The Weather Channel , and other outlets, and in 2019 he was commissioned by Cornell University to create a full-length play about community responses to climate change. He is particularly good at being cool.

This guide builds on earlier work by writer Liam McCabe.

Most people look for the same thing from a portable air conditioner as they expect of any home cooling system:

• It should make the room feel more comfortable.
• It shouldn’t run up the electric bill (too much).
• And it shouldn’t be too loud or inconvenient to set up and use.

Historically, this has been a pretty big ask for a portable air conditioner. In recent years, however, the Department of Energy finalized new standards for measuring the seasonally adjusted cooling capacity (SACC) and combined energy-efficiency ratio (CEER) of portable ACs. These new metrics are much more comprehensive and helpful—although the way that certain machines are labeled can still be a bit confusing. (When in doubt, consult the EnergyGuide label on the box.)

For this guide, we limited our search to portable air conditioners that met a minimum SACC threshold of 8,000 British thermal units (Btu) per hour, according to these new standards. We prioritized models with a CEER of at least 7.0, as well.

All portable air conditioners have at least one large exhaust hose that must vent out through your window, and some have two. In most situations, the number of hoses doesn’t have a huge impact on performance, so we didn’t factor it into our decision making; any efficiency lost or gained by an extra or missing hose should be factored into the SACC rating, anyway. The one major exception, however, is if you plan on setting up your portable AC in a room with a furnace or water heater or anything else that uses combustion. We’ve added more details about that below .

With our performance needs met, we set up our finalists in a roughly 250-square-foot space and tested for measurable objective criteria, including:

• Temperature and humidity changes: We measured over the course of two hours, using an environmental data logger .
• Power consumption: During our tests, we plugged each AC into an energy monitor .
• Volume and noise: At each different power setting, we used a decibel meter to track the general volume and an audio spectrum analyzer app to identify any uniquely annoying frequencies.

That data was secondary to our subjective note taking on the overall user experience of living with these things—you learn a lot about these units as you set them up, roll them around, and fiddle with their vent-hose attachments in the window. We focused on details such as:

• Basic setup process: We examined how easy it was to connect the exhaust tube, whether the window panel required tools or cumbersome construction, and how quickly we could set up any smart-home or Wi-Fi connections.
• Portability: We evaluated how well the AC moved around on casters, with or without the exhaust hose installed in the window. We also considered the ease of removing the unit and storing it in between seasons, as well as general accessibility considerations for people with limited mobility.
• Onboard and remote controls: We looked at how intuitive the buttons were, as well as how easy (or difficult) it was to customize settings, and we noted the brightness and convenience of any LED indicator lights. We also considered remote functionality.
• Other accessories: We noted any extra features, such as cord storage, a remote control, or the ability to connect to an app—minor factors that had an impact on the overall experience but not enough to influence our decisions in a significant way.

With its inverter compressor and its unique dual-hose design, the Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL is more powerful, more efficient, and quieter than any other portable air conditioner we’ve tested. It’s also easier to set up and generally more pleasant to live with than similar ACs. Plus, the Duo MAP14HS1TBL comes with a built-in heating mechanism, so you may be able to use it for year-round climate control, depending on where you live.

It delivers more powerful cooling than other portable ACs. With an SACC of 12,000 Btu under the new Department of Energy standards or 14,000 Btu according to the older ASHRAE standards, the Duo MAP14HS1TBL is simply one of the most powerful portable air conditioners you can find. It also has the smallest gap we’ve seen between those two measurements—which, without getting too in the weeds, is a good indicator of a high-quality design.

It’s impressively quiet . In our tests, we measured the Duo MAP14HS1TBL running at an average volume of 48 decibels. Though that’s about 2 decibels more than the volume of our also-great pick from LG, this Midea model is still much quieter than most portable air conditioners, and its noise is still significantly below the generally accepted “normal conversation” volume of 60 decibels. Even the compressor was hardly noticeable when it first kicked on, adding about 2 decibels of low rumble to the fan volume on average.

It’s remarkably efficient. The Duo MAP14HS1TBL has a CEER rating, under the current standards, of 10.8, which is the highest efficiency rating we’ve seen on any portable air conditioner. Even our runner-up pick , also from Midea, has an efficiency rating of only 8.9. (Most models we looked at had a CEER rating between 6.8 and 7.3.) Thanks to the inverter compressor on this model, it can gradually fluctuate its power usage, as well. Whereas most similarly sized portable ACs with standard compressors tend to run at 1,300 watts, the Duo MAP14HS1TBL never used more than 970 watts during our tests, and typically it used even less.

It spreads cool air consistently around the room. The Duo MAP14HS1TBL has a rotating cylinder fan on the top that sort of tosses the cooled air up and out in an arc. In our tests, this mechanism worked surprisingly well: This portable AC was able to drop the temperature by 10 degrees in under an hour while maintaining a roughly 1-degree temperature fluctuation across the room. In that regard, it was more consistent than any other AC we tested, with the exception of our also-great pick from Frigidaire. Even the Danby model we tested, which was identical to this Midea AC in nearly every way except for the fan, couldn’t match its uniform cooling prowess.

The dual-hose design makes it easier to wrangle. Portable ACs with two hoses typically have a slight efficiency advantage over single-hose models; unfortunately, they also tend to be more cumbersome, which sort of offsets any benefit. But the Duo MAP14HS1TBL stands out with an unusual design that combines the intake and exhaust hoses into a single tube that’s built directly into the unit—giving you all the advantages of dual hoses without the frustration of having to wrestle with a pair of annoying plastic snakes that keep detaching from your air conditioner.

The installation process is surprisingly simple. Along with that built-in hose-in-hose design, the Duo MAP14HS1TBL comes with a comprehensive window-installation kit that makes it easily adaptable for a variety of homes. The kit accompanying our unit included so many hardware options that we weren’t even sure what kinds of windows they all worked for; suffice to say, there should be a way to make this AC work for almost any setup you might have. The dual hose snaps right into place on the window panels, too—though you might want to cover the cracks with some insulation tape, anyway.

It comes with a comprehensive remote control and all of the smart-home features you might need, which is especially great for accessibility. We found the built-in user interface to be particularly clear and easy to use; by contrast, the Danby model we tested had the exact same button layout with different markings, and it managed to confuse us every time. Even the Alexa voice commands for the Duo MAP14HS1TBL felt natural.

Thanks to its heating mode, this AC can handle climate control year-round. Though this guide is largely focused on portable units’ cooling capacity, we were pleasantly surprised to learn that the Duo MAP14HS1TBL also has a built-in 12,000 Btu heat pump. That’s more than enough power for it to provide some efficient electrical heating in the cooler months.

It’s one of the more attractive portable ACs we’ve seen. To be fair, that’s kind of like saying that R2-D2 is better looking than R5-D4 —sure, one is a little more sleek-looking, but at the end of the day, they all resemble trash cans on wheels. 1

Flaws but not dealbreakers

At 77 pounds, the Duo MAP14HS1TBL is one of the heavier portable ACs. It’s about 10 pounds heavier than our budget pick and more than 15 pounds heavier than the convertible GE dual-hose model we tested. Carrying any portable AC up and down stairs is a challenge, but this model’s added heft amplifies the problem. Fortunately, its caster wheels and handles make it easy enough to move around on flat, hard surfaces.

If you don’t mind trading some cooling (and heating) power for a bit of cost savings, the Midea Duo MAP12S1TBL is a smaller, stripped-down version of our top pick that works nearly as well.

It has the same inverter compressor and dual-hose design as our top pick. Those are two of the most important factors for energy-efficient performance—and they’re the things that set Midea’s portable air conditioners apart from the rest of the pack. The MAP12S1TBL has all the same smart-home features, too, and it’s just as quiet and consistent at spreading cooled air around the room. Put another way, this Midea model works just as well as the other one, which is also better than almost any other portable AC you’ll find.

It’s about $100 cheaper than our top pick on average. Portable air conditioners tend to cost more in general than their window-mounted counterparts , and overall AC prices fluctuate throughout the season. That said, this model tends to cost around $560 , while our top pick from Midea averages about $660 .

This Midea AC isn’t quite as powerful, or as efficient, as our top pick. With an SACC of 10,000 Btu by the current DOE standards (or 12,000 Btu according to the older ASHRAE standards), this Midea model is still more powerful than most other portable ACs out there. Its combined energy-efficiency ratio (CEER) of 8.9 is similarly smaller than what you get from our top pick, but it still represents an improvement on almost any other option.

It doesn’t have a heating mechanism, as our top pick does. For some people, this could be a fair trade-off, especially considering the cost savings.

Although the single-hose Frigidaire FHPH142AC1 is not an inverter-style portable AC, in our tests it provided even more consistent cooling than our other picks, and it was almost as quiet, too. Like the Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL, this Frigidaire AC includes a heating supplement, as well as a remote control and convenient smart-home features. It also adds a few unusual perks such as improved filtration and air ionization.

It’s just as powerful as our top pick, and it spreads the cooled air more evenly around the room. With a 10,000 Btu SACC rating under the current Department of Energy standards, the FHPH142AC1 boasts the same cooling prowess as the Duo MAP14HS1TBL. In our tests, it actually did a slightly better job of dropping the temperature in the first half hour, though the two models ultimately worked about the same over the course of two hours. This Frigidaire portable AC was also better at maintaining a consistent temperature, with our monitors measuring less than a half-degree difference between them.

Like our top pick, it also offers a heating option. This Frigidaire model’s built-in heat pump can provide up to 11,000 Btu of warmth during the cooler months—slightly less than the power output from the Duo MAP14HS1TBL but still more than enough for efficient electric heating.

It also has several features that could potentially improve your air quality. While the FHPH142AC1 comes with its own standard air filter by default, you also get the option to upgrade to one of Frigidaire’s MERV-14 PureAir RAC-6 filters, which surpass the COVID-19 filtration levels recommended by both ASHRAE and the CDC . Meanwhile, even if you don’t want to pay the extra cost for an air ionizer , this Frigidaire AC still comes with one built in. We’re skeptical of the health claims of such ionizers, but the ionizer’s presence shouldn’t hurt, either, and it might bring you some more comfort.

It’s a little louder than our other picks but still quieter than most portables. We measured the FHPH142AC1 at an average volume of around 54 decibels, with a louder, low-end rumble from the compressor and a fan that made a slight hissing sound. None of this noise was particularly annoying; even at its worst, it sounded like a gentle white noise machine. Overall, the sound of the FHPH142AC1 is still easier to live with (read: ignore) than the noise from any other standard-compressor portable AC we’ve tested.

It uses more energy than inverter models. The FHPH142AC1 has a combined energy-efficiency ratio (CEER) of 7.8—better than the ratings we’ve seen for most portable ACs out there, but nowhere near as good as the rating for our top pick and its inverter compressor. Running on full blast in our tests, this AC pulled about 1,250 watts of power, regardless of whether it was in cooling or heating mode. Its energy consumption does drop significantly once it reaches its target temperature, but otherwise the range of fluctuation is limited—it’s all or nothing.

It’s a little more frustrating to set up. Like most portable air conditioners, this Frigidaire model requires you to twist the plastic accordion hose onto the back of the machine and then feed that exhaust tube into a plastic panel that fits into your window—a cumbersome process on both ends. Though the end of the hose snapped firmly into place on the window panels, we found that the rest of the extension panels didn’t quite fit the width of the window that we used for testing. As a result, we had to cut some of the plastic pieces in half with a saw. Although the FHPH142AC1 is much less modular and adaptable than some of the other portable ACs we tested, there should still be a way to make it work for your window, even if you need a saw.

The LG LP1419IVSM was our top pick from 2019 to 2021, and it’s still one of the most powerful and efficient portable ACs available. It’s also one of the few portable models that actually feel portable, as it has lots of thoughtful design details that make it easier to store away during the warmer months (which you’ll need to do, since it lacks heating capabilities).

It’s one of the most powerful and efficient portable ACs you can find. Its seasonally adjusted cooling capacity (SACC) of 10,000 Btu matches that of our top pick. It also has an inverter compressor like our top pick, though it has a lower CEER of 7.9. With those numbers, the LP1419IVSM is better than every standard-compressor single-hose portable out there, though it’s still a bit more energy intensive than our top pick. Still, with its average noise output of around 45 decibels, you’ll barely notice this AC even when the compressor is working its hardest.

Its self-contained design makes it easier to live with. The LP1419IVSM comes with a remote control, as well as Wi-Fi capabilities so that you can set up all the standard smart-home features, which all work decently well. But the most convenient thing about it is the way it handles all the other, extraneous hardware. In addition to a built-in exhaust hose, which promotes easier setup and transportation, the LP1419IVSM has dedicated storage compartments for the aforementioned remote control, plus all of its window installation panels. It even has a spot to stash the manual, if you want. It’s the only portable AC we’ve ever tested that doesn’t leave you with a pile of plastic parts and nowhere to put them. You can store everything right there on the AC itself, which means you can just roll it away at the end of the summer without having to worry about losing track of the window panels or the remote control.

With a rechargeable battery and a variety of charging options, the EcoFlow Wave 2 Portable Air Conditioner is one of the very few portable air conditioners we’ve found that are actually portable. It’s a great choice for windowless rooms and semi-enclosed outdoor spaces such as seasonal porches, but it’s an even better option for people who need flexibility or want something to take on the road for camping trips or off-grid living. It doesn’t even need to be hooked up to a window (although the exhaust air still needs to go somewhere).

It’s more portable than other portable ACs. Unlike other portable ACs, this EcoFlow model doesn’t need to be plugged into a wall unless you’re actively charging it. That leaves you with a lot more flexibility in its location. The removable battery can last about four to six hours of constant heating or cooling, but if you switch it to fan mode once your space has reached your target temperature, it should run for the rest of the day without a problem. It pulls about 750 watts of energy while charging, too, still less energy than you’d need to run a non-inverter portable AC. Plus, the battery comes with USB charging ports, in case you need them. Still, it’s not a bad idea to keep a second battery as a backup.

It’s ideal for tents and RVs, and it can run on solar panels or a separate generator. In addition to using its removable and rechargeable batteries, the Wave 2 can also work in conjunction with one of the company’s portable power stations, such as the Delta Max 2000 , which in turn can run off a car charger, a generator, or a set of solar panels. After testing it, we’re in agreement with EcoFlow’s claims that this model is a good option for RVs or car camping—you can make sure there’s some air conditioning anywhere you go.

You don’t need to vent it out a window. The Wave 2 comes with a variety of hose connections that you can hook up to any of the air exhausts or intakes. As a result, you have a little more flexibility in where you vent the air, and where you get the air from. For example, you could leave the Wave 2 outside your tent and pump fresh conditioned air inside that stuffy space while you’re sleeping. You can also use it outdoors or in a semi-enclosed space such as a screened-in patio and direct the exhaust air away from you.

To be clear: The unit still produces exhaust air (the opposite of the air that you’re conditioning), and you still need to vent that air away from you somehow. But instead of forcing you to hook your air conditioner up to a window, this EcoFlow model gives you more choices, such as directing the exhaust air toward the ceiling. If you do that indoors, the exhaust air will eventually remix with the conditioned air—thanks, thermodynamics!—but at least you’ll still get some reprieve from the heat or cold.

It’s surprisingly quiet. In our tests, the Wave 2 measured at about 50 decibels with the fan running on high and 37 decibels on low. It’s quieter than any of our other portable AC picks, so you shouldn’t have to worry too much about its possibly destroying the serenity of your wilderness slumber (or whatever you choose to do with it).

But it isn’t nearly as powerful as other portable ACs. With a cooling capacity of about 5,100 Btu along with 6,100 Btu of heating, the Wave 2 has less than half the power output of our other picks. It isn’t so good for broadly heating or cooling down all the ambient air in a room. What it can do instead is make people more comfortable: Aim the Wave 2 at a couple on a couch, for example, or a few folks inside a tent or other small space, and you can focus the air conditioning on those individual people, instead of heating or cooling the entire space. It’s a subtle difference. But in the kinds of situations that the Wave 2 was designed for, it can make a major difference.

It’s also a lot more expensive. At around $1,300, the Wave 2 costs roughly twice as much as our other picks—while offering much weaker power output. (The bulk of that cost comes from the battery, which is $900 on its own.) However, those other ACs aren’t nearly as convenient or portable. If you have the floor and window space for a normal portable unit, you should get one of our other picks. But if you need something that offers more flexibility in how and where it keeps you comfortable, the EcoFlow Wave 2 is worth its markup.

The Black+Decker BPACT14WT is loud and clumsy—and it’s your best bet for a cheapish portable air conditioner that will actually do its job. It isn’t great, but it is the most affordable option that meets our minimum standards. (Plenty of more expensive models failed to even reach our threshold for power and efficiency.)

It’s surprisingly powerful for its price tag. It offers a seasonally adjusted cooling capacity (SACC) of 8,400 Btu and an overall ASHRAE-rated output of 14,000 Btu. Our other portable AC picks are all rated at a minimum SACC of 10,000 Btu under the current standards—but every other lesser AC we considered at the same size as this Black+Decker model was at least $150 more. If you actually want to save money, this Black+Decker AC delivers the best compromise for the cost.

It’s easy enough to set up and maintain. However, you will need a screwdriver to install the window panel or remove the filters. This process isn’t terrible, but it’s also not as easy to deal with as the installation for our other picks. Otherwise, setup of the BPACT14WT involves all the same standard hose-wrangling frustrations as with any other portable AC.

Black+Decker offers a five year warranty on the compressor. It covers the other parts of the BPACT14WT for only one year, the same amount of coverage as on our other picks. But you should be able to sleep easier knowing that you’ll at least have some protection in the event that, well, you can’t sleep because the AC’s compressor broke down. That counts for something.

It’s pretty loud and inefficient, especially compared with our other picks. In our tests, the BPACT14WT ran nearly 10 decibels louder than the Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL on its highest setting—a volume level that could start to encroach on normal conversation levels in some rooms. The sound of it also reminded us of an amateur White Stripes cover band with a snake on lead vocals, which might not be ideal for everyone. Still, there are worse ways to try to cool down, especially when you’re desperate.

Transaera recently announced a new portable unit that uses the condensation that naturally collects during the air conditioning process to improve the system’s overall efficiency. This supposedly reduces the overall energy consumption by about one-third, while also reducing the humidity in the room. We plan on testing it once it’s more widely available.

The Coolzy Pro is similar to the EcoFlow Wave 2 in that it’s a smaller portable AC designed for cooling individual people in less conventional spaces. It has an even lower cooling capacity, however, and it still needs to be plugged into a wall outlet.

The Danby DPA100B9IWDB-6 looks surprisingly similar to our runner-up pick , just with a slightly different fan on top. It functions basically the same—all the way down to the fact that it allows you to use your Midea login for the app. Midea wouldn’t comment on that, but the Danby model is a fine alternative overall.

The dual-hose Honeywell HW4CEDAWW0 was so terribly frustrating to assemble that we gave up entirely. It’s supposed to be just as powerful as our top pick , though, and nearly as efficient, even without an inverter compressor.

Similarly, the Honeywell MN4HFS9 has an SACC of 9,000 Btu, as well as a built-in heat pump, and it performed well enough in our tests. It was louder than we would have liked, however, and we’re confident that you can find a more efficient model at a better price.

The Honeywell MO0CESWK7 could have been a potential budget-pick competitor if it had a higher SACC rating. It could still be a decent choice for a smaller room.

The Lowe’s-exclusive GE APWD07JASG works as both a single-hose model and a dual-hose model, with the help of an $80 conversion kit . The conversion process is simple, and we tested the machine in both configurations, both of which proved to be the epitome of “fine.”

The dual-hose Whynter Elite ARC-122DS used to be our top pick; it’s less efficient than our current picks but still a good choice overall. The Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP is essentially the same thing with the addition of a built-in heater.

The most important thing to do to make a portable AC perform at its best is to insulate the gaps between the window, the window frame, and the panel holding the AC vent. Foam strips work, and 10 feet of the stuff typically costs a few dollars. The tape helps to prevent warm air from slipping in through the cracks as easily.

When you’re using a portable AC, keep it as close to the window as you can, with as many of the accordion ribs collapsed as possible, so that the hose is as short and straight as you can make it. Clean the filter at least once a month.

Starting in 2019, we began comparing dual- and single-hose models according to the same criteria, and we didn’t dismiss any models based on their hose count. Our research, however, ultimately steered us toward single-hose portable models—in part because so many newer models use this design. In fact, we found no compelling new double-hose models from major manufacturers in 2019 or 2020, although a few new ones cropped up in 2021, including our new top pick.

Owner reviews indicate that most people prefer single-hose models, too, since they’re easier to set up and don’t look quite as much like a giant octopus trash sculpture. Although our testing has shown that dual-hose models tend to outperform some single-hose units in extremely hot or muggy weather, the difference is usually minimal, and we don’t think it outweighs the convenience of a single hose.

The one major exception, however, is if you plan on setting up your portable AC in a room with a furnace or water heater or anything else that uses combustion. When a single-hose AC model forces air out through its exhaust hose, it can create negative pressure in the room. This produces a slight vacuum effect, which pulls in “infiltration air” from anywhere it can in order to equalize the pressure. In the presence of a gas-powered device such as a furnace, that negative pressure creates a backdraft or downdraft, which can cause the machine to malfunction—or worse, fill the room with gas fumes and carbon monoxide .

We don’t think that most people plan to use their portable AC in such a room, but if your home is set up in such a way that you’re concerned about ventilation, skip the rest of our recommendations in this guide and go straight for our top pick , the Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL, or our runner-up , the Midea Duo MAP12S1TBL. Or choose another dual-hose model, such as the Whynter Elite ARC-122DS or Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP .

This article was edited by Harry Sawyers.

Though R2-D2 is clearly the superior astromech, R5-D4 is the true unsung hero of the Skywalker Saga and deserves more praise for his selfless sacrifice outside the Jawa sandcrawler.

Daniel Giamatta, senior account executive, LG-One US , email interview , March 18, 2019

Tom Kelly, product senior manager, Haier AC/GE Appliances , email interview , March 13, 2019

Rachel Lee, sales manager, Whynter , email interview , March 12, 2019

Gary Woodruff, residential manager, Hurley & David Home HVAC Services , email interview , March 19, 2019

Zach Claxton, Introducing New Portable AC BTU Guidelines , Sylvane , February 22, 2018

Test Procedure for Portable Air Conditioners (PDF) , US Department of Energy , May 5, 2014

Technical Support Document: Energy Efficiency Program for Consumer Products and Commercial and Industrial Equipment: Portable Air Conditioners , US Department of Energy , December 27, 2016

David Morrison, How Do Portable Air Conditioners Work? , Home Air Guides , March 18, 2019

Meet your guide

Thom Dunn is a staff writer at Wirecutter reporting on heating, cooling, and other home-improvement topics. Sometimes his curiosity gets the best of him, such as when he plugged a space heater and a Marshall guitar amp into the same power strip. Pro tip: Don’t do that.

Further reading

How to DIY an Air Purifier

by Tim Heffernan

If your air quality is bad and you don’t have an air purifier, an HVAC filter taped to a box fan is better than nothing.

The Best Fan

by Thom Dunn

Circulating indoor air can make warm days a lot more comfortable.

How to Shop for a Ceiling Fan

by Harry Sawyers

There are lots of great fans to look up to. One particular Westinghouse stands out.

The Best Window Fans

Window fans work well for ventilation and air circulation in mild, dry summer weather.

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Jeffsetter Travel

Travel Consultants and Travel Tips

8 Most Efficient Air Conditioners for Your RV

April 3, 2021 by Charlotte Phillips

Last updated on July 4th, 2023 at 04:50 pm

All of our reviews are based on exhaustive research, industry experience and whenever possible, hands-on testing. When you make a purchase using one of our chosen links we’ll receive a small percentage of the proceeds. This supports the site and keeps Jeffsetter running. You can read more here .

Looking for something to keep you cool as you travel the country in your RV this summer? I can’t blame you, especially if you’re heading into the desert or other equally hot places!

An air conditioner is one of the easiest and most successful things to use to beat the heat. But air conditioners are often inefficient and expensive, especially in an RV.

Are you looking for an energy-efficient air conditioner for your rig so that you can keep yourself and the whole family cool?

Let’s learn about your different RV AC options, as well as many other important things to consider before you make your final purchase! But if you want to skip the research and just see our favorites you can check them out here: 

• Plug and play
• Redesigned with RVers in mind

• Lowest profile on the market
• Efficient cooling refrigerant
• Backed by a 2-year warranty

• Budget-friendly
• Lightweight and portable
• Easy to install

Types Of RV AC Units

The first step is determining what type of RV AC unit best works with your rig and lifestyle. Thankfully there aren’t too many different types to choose from, and the choice should be an easy one to make once you have determined your needs and wants!

Here are the three main types of RV AC units available for your consideration.

Rooftop AC Unit

Have you ever noticed large plastic covers atop the roof of newer RVs? These covers are most likely hiding a rooftop AC unit, the most common type of RV AC option.  Most RVs, even back in the day, have the option to install an AC unit on the roof. Nowadays, AC units are standard atop the roof of your new rig, maybe even two (sometimes three, with a luxury fifth wheel )!

They can occasionally be a bit of a pricey nonstandard feature, but usually, it’s worth it to have AC aboard your rig. Rooftop AC units can be either ducted throughout the rig or non-ducted. This is an important distinction when it comes to your rig, and if you do not already have ducts installed you’ll want to stick with a non-ducted option for ease.

Ducts are usually what is found in standard homes with air conditioning. These ducts are installed throughout your RV, and the air is directed from the roof through these specified vents.

Most luxury RVs will have ducted ACs. Rooftop AC units can be just as useful non-ducted but tend to be a bit less efficient. This means the non-ducted unit simply blows cold air in from the ceiling. This can be perfect for smaller rigs like mine, or rigs with very few doors and walls. 

However, much like the rest of the AC examples below, a ducted AC unit will no doubt be the most efficient and effective in cooling your home on wheels, especially if you own a larger rig with divided rooms.

Window AC Unit

My vintage rig does not have an air conditioner and, living full-time in the Pacific Northwest, this often does not trouble me. However, the summers can reach over 100 degrees sometimes, and this past summer I had no choice but to install a window AC unit in my RV.

Window AC units are meant to be permanent install in a window or cut out in your wall. The bulk of the unit sticks out of a window with filtration and a fan inside to keep you cool. Most units require or recommend support for the unit on the outside of the rig, which means it could be inconvenient if you are hitting the road often.

I’ve found these units to be quite heavy and unyielding in the past, a deep inconvenience if you have to remove them from your rig’s windows before driving. However, the price point is often quite reasonable, and new units are typically lightweight too.

Window AC units are also a bit trickier to fit correctly should you be installing one after your rig is built. However, there are a wide variety of sizes , efficiencies, and styles of window AC units. If you are doing a custom build where the unit can be permanently and safely installed or need something to work in a pinch, a window unit may be exactly what you need! 

Portable AC Unit

Another option with a wide range of prices and styles is portable ACs. These can be useful, especially if you plan on removing them from your rig to use elsewhere in the future. Portable units are a bit misleading in their name, however, as even portable AC units need some sort of vent to the outside world.

The other style of portable AC unit is a swamp cooler, but these are not the same as air conditioners. While swamp coolers may work in a pinch, they simply use cold water and fans to work. This process puts a lot of moisture and humidity into the air and your rig, which can be a nightmare, as I’m sure you well know.

However, swamp coolers are very affordable and truly portable, often extremely compact. They would be a great fit for RV living if they didn’t produce so much humidity! So I recommend steering away from them and making sure you are looking at a proper AC unit, not a swamp cooler when shopping.

Portable AC units can do in a pinch , much like window units. They are movable so long as you keep a venting spot nearby, which means you may find this useful when it comes time to go to bed. You can bring the cool air with you! Well, so long as you can vent it out a bedroom window.

What To Look For In An RV AC Unit

If you’re still unsure what to look for in an RV AC unit, I can help. If the style of the unit didn’t narrow it down, here are some other factors to consider before you make your final purchase.

Existing AC Unit Location

Do you have an existing AC unit on your rig, but it’s time for a new one? The most natural choice for you to make is to simply replace your old unit and install the new unit in the same location.

However, if you don’t like your current style of AC unit, you may consider installing a different style or the same style in a more efficient location. This can bring a lot of headaches and hassle, so keep this in mind before you make a decision.

Obviously using the same location and style of AC unit will be the best bet for those of you simply replacing an outdated model. You may find the old location works just fine with a new, higher-efficiency unit installed there!

Are you a full-timer in Arizona, or the occasional weekend warrior to the balmy parts of our wonderful nation? Your predicted usage of your AC unit may be something to consider before making a final purchase.

Much like everything else in your RV, the amount of use it sees greatly affects the efficiency of the product or device. Purchasing an efficient and expensive AC unit may be worth it for you if you plan to visit hot places often, or live full-time in your rig.

However, if you deem an air conditioner necessary but only plan on using it a few times a year, chances are you can go with a cheaper model and notice no real issues.

Space, Space, Space

I’m sure you’ve no doubt realized, when it comes to storage and general living, space inside an RV is always at a premium. The last thing you want to do when purchasing an air conditioner is to buy one that takes up too much space in your rig.

A roof AC unit is usually the style of unit that’s most out of the way, but you have to consider the rooftop clearance of your rig before installing. Window units are the next most streamlined choice, but even these units can jut out pretty far into a particular space.

Portable units will be the most in the way (and also not completely portable), so these will be the unit you may struggle with the most. Keep your desired measurements handy when you sit down to make your final purchase!

BTU Requirements

A BTU, or British Thermal Unit, is how all air conditioners are measured. More BTUs equals more power, more cooling, and more everything! However, more BTUs also means more money, more often than not.

Determining your BTU needs can determine the AC unit you need to efficiently cool your RV. But how can you calculate something like that? Check out this formula and consider if your RV might be better suited with one or two AC units.

BTU Calculation:

Cubic Feet x Temperature Increase or Decrease in Fahrenheit x .133

Cubic Feet x Temperature Increase or Decrease in Celsius x .2394

Walls and doors should be taken into consideration when calculating your BTU needs. This is why a lot of larger fifth wheels these days have more than one air conditioner- the cold air struggles to pass by walls and doors to cool efficiently . 

For maximum efficiency, knowing your desired BTUs will help, and if your BTU number is quite high based on the cubic feet of your rig, another air conditioner may be the answer.

Installing Your RV AC Unit

Installing your new RV AC unit may be a bit of an involved process, depending on your final choice and whether or not you want a professional to help you. If you plan on doing the installation yourself, it’s definitely possible! 

Make sure you utilize your AC unit’s manual and follow all suggestions. The last thing you want to do is void a warranty, should your unit come with one. If you are installing a new rooftop AC unit, it’s recommended to have another hand around for your own safety.

These units, no matter how new, can be heavy and unyielding at the best of times. Lugging one up a ladder by yourself can be a lot! Take your time, be safe, and make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment before getting started, such as one of these foldable ladders if you don’t already have one!

Maintenance And Tips For Your RV AC

Your RV AC unit can last many years, often for the life of your RV should you perform proper and routine maintenance. Much like most other parts of your RV, maintenance is the best way to ensure a long life for your rig.

AC units are usually fairly low maintenance, needing only filter changes from time to time which is an extremely easy thing to do. The only other thing you may have to do is recharge the liquid freezing system but refer to your manual before doing anything too extreme.

Having a cover for your unit is usually necessary too, should it not come with one already. Your rooftop AC unit absolutely needs one to protect it from the elements, and some window units may also benefit from a cover.

Otherwise, keep the vents dust free and pay attention to your unit’s efficiency as the months go by. High-efficiency AC units often need less maintenance and, while they can come at a higher price tag, they may be worth purchasing should you be wary of routine maintenance.

What About My Amperage?

If using your air conditioner is a high priority while on the road, you must consider your overall wattage and amperage . Most new rigs have 50-amp power systems, which is usually enough for AC units. 

However, your air conditioner needs the most wattage out of all other appliances, including electric heaters or microwaves. Make sure you know how many watts your AC unit uses upon start-up. An air conditioner’s running wattage is always lower than its start-up wattage. Your electrical system will need to be able to compensate for the start-up wattage! 

If your 50 amp rig includes two AC units (as many often do) and you hope to power them both at the same time, you’re going to need to make some sacrifices in terms of other appliances. You won’t be able to run everything at the same time. 

Keep in mind your needs versus your wants. It’s a nice idea to want to power your entire rig and all major appliances at the same time, but your rig may not be able to handle it! Wouldn’t you choose a nice cooled rig instead of using a hair dryer?

8 Most Efficient AC Units For Your RV

Have you determined the best style of AC unit for your RV? What about your required BTUs and usage needs? If you’re ready, so am I! Here’s my list of the most efficient air conditioners perfect for your RV!

Best Overall: Dometic Brisk II Rooftop Air Conditioner, 15,000 BTU

Dometic brisk ii rooftop air conditioner, 15,000 btu.

It’s a perfect fit for replacing an old AC unit, and Dometic has been one of the biggest names in the RV game since the beginning, so I trust their handiwork!  The Brisk Air II uses its smart design, tighter specification allowances, and improved materials to maximize airflow and performance so keeping cool in summer is easy. This RV AC unit offers a 15% airflow increase and is 19% lighter than previous models, which means direct improvements when replacing an older version.

This particular model works ducted or not ducted, but frustratingly, there is a need to purchase additional accessories for ducted options. However, having both ducted and non-ducted options provides me with the flexibility I need while I’m living on the road. It’s lightweight compared to many other units but weighs around 85 pounds, so I think I’d need my partner to give me a hand with the installation.

This is a considerable amount of weight to add to the RV roof, so I recommend proceeding with caution when installing it on the roof! However, it should have no trouble fitting any old AC spots; just make sure you know how much weight your roof can support . 

All in all, this is one of the best AC units out there for RVs- powerful, reliable, and backed by a two-year warranty from Dometic which I love as there’s someone to call if things get hairy! 

You can find out more about this unit along with the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.

Lowest Profile: Dometic 640315CXX1J0 Penguin II

Dometic 640315cxx1j0 penguin ii.

This model of Penguin AC comes in at around 100 pounds and runs at 13,500 BTUs. This is a relatively heavy weight for installation which I think is the main drawback of this AC unit. However, I just recruit some family, friends, or my partner to give me a hand when heavy additions to my RV! This Dometic Penguin also only rises to 9 and a half inches tall, which means I feel secure going under any overpass in my rig – low branches won’t snag this AC unit either!

This particular model is meant for non-ducted rigs, so this is something to keep an eye on for those preferring a ducted option. However, much like other Dometic AC units, it’s a fairly simple plug-and-play appliance so once it’s in place, the rest of the installation should be relatively straightforward.

It also utilizes energy-efficient refrigerant, perfect for me since I have an eye for efficient cooling! I’m a little nervous about heights, and always prioritize safety first, so make sure you’re careful getting this unit up to the roof!

Check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.

Best on a Budget: COSTWAY 12000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control

Costway 12000 btu portable air conditioner.

This 12,000 BTU model efficiently manages the ambient temperature of spaces up to 400 sq/ft, removing heat and humidity for seasonal or year-round comfort which as a full-timer, is exactly what I need!  Designed with cooling mode, dehumidifying mode, fan mode, and sleep mode, this conditioner meets various demands, especially in small spaces such as my travel trailer.

I love the convenience having a remote control brings, as I can operate the air conditioning unit from a long distance, so my partner, dog, and I can return to a gorgeously cool rig after a long summer hike. The included slide-out filter is super easy to clean too, I just have to rinse it under the faucet and I’m rewarded with fresh, cool air! A window kit is included for easy installation, and all it needs is a sliver of access to the outside world.

This portable air conditioner has two drain ports – an upper drain port and a lower drain port. And you can choose between manual drainage and continuous drainage, which may be useful to some of you. It measures 12 x 29 x 13.5 inches and weighs around 50 pounds. Plus it has attached wheels, which means you’ll be able to move it with ease.

The only issue I can see with this AC unit is that it may not be the best fit in an RV given that it does take up a considerable amount of space. However, if you don’t have an existing rooftop AC unit and want something that is incredibly efficient and easy to install, this may be a great unit for you.

You can see the latest price and reviews on Amazon by clicking here .

Best Rooftop AC: Dometic Air Conditioners 651816CXX1J0 Penguin II

Dometic Air Conditioners 651816CXX1J0 Penguin II

• Heats and cools
• Great warranty and customer service

From 60°F to 38°F, this Penguin II heat pump can keep RV interiors comfortably warm, as well as cool. Space is luxury in an RV, so I tend to lean more towards items that do more than one job, as it saves space, money, and time in the long run! This unit operates entirely on 120-volt AC electricity, so there’s nothing to light and no LP gas supply to worry about which I love as it makes things even easier.

It’s also less than 10 inches tall! It’s incredibly easy to install when replacing an old AC unit, and is, therefore, more efficient in every way. Plus it works with ducted and non-ducted RVs. As previously mentioned, Dometic offers great customer service and two-year warranties which proves Dometic trust their products, and I do too! There’s no denying this is a fantastic rooftop AC option, however, there are a few downsides in my eyes.

Firstly, it weighs over 100 pounds which is a substantial amount of weight to handle, especially for solo RVers. It also requires a specific thermostat which is sold separately, which as a result bumps the overall cost up a considerable amount.  All in all, though, this AC unit is the best of the best in terms of rooftop options. It’s great to have an all-in-one, and may come in handy should your propane or other heater fail. 

You can see the latest price on Amazon by clicking here .

Best Window AC: Midea MAW10R1BWT Window Conditioner 10000 BTU Easycool AC

Midea MAW10R1BWT Window Conditioner 10000 BTU Easycool AC

• Remote controlled

This 10,000 BTU model provides fast and efficient cooling power and dehumidification, ideal for rooms up to 450 square feet. An intuitive design remote control and a LED digital display panel make it easy to change all the settings from across the room. I love this type of convenience as it makes things super easy for both my partner and me. This window unit installs easily without significant modification to the existing window frame, and all mounting hardware is included which is a game-changer, as nothing frustrates me more than additional purchases for a product!

This unit is recommended for specific-sized windows: minimum window height- 14 inches, minimum window width- 23 inches, maximum window width- 36 inches. I think this is the only tricky part when it comes to installing this AC in a rig, as most RVs aren’t designed to hold a window or wall AC unit.

Thankfully this AC only weighs around 60 pounds, much lighter than the rooftop models I previously mentioned, so solo installation is completely possible! I particularly love that it cools the air quickly. which is what we need with a dog on board , but also runs quietly so it doesn’t interfere with RV living.

Check out the latest reviews and more on Amazon by clicking here .

Best Portable AC: BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU with Heat

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU with Heat

• Cools and heats
• Low amp and efficient
• Compact and easy to use
• Installation included

It can sometimes be a bit of a hassle to find a two-in-one RV AC option, but fear not, as I’ve found a BLACK+DECKER Portable AC that’s a winner. A household name for many appliances and accessories, Black and Decker have put together a portable AC unit that also heats! This appliance is a powerful, portable, and energy-efficient option for when a permanent AC installation isn’t suitable. 

An adjustable fan speed cools the air up to 55°F, heats up to 81°F, and provides steady and fast cooling and heating for rooms up to 250 sq. ft. This is ideal for my travel trailer, and the fact it has dual functions means I can save money by not using my propane heater ! The simple remote control and top-mounted LED display with a 24-hour timer allow me to precisely control the air temperature. To clean the filter, I just slide it out twice a month, rinse it thoroughly under running water, and put it back.

Combining 4 energy-efficient modes in one small unit (17.1 x 13.8 x 28.1 in.), the cool, fan, heat, and dehumidify settings meet all of my RV’s cooling, heating, and ventilation needs. There are additional settings too, namely sleep, max, and air swing functions that control airflow, all whilst only drawing 10-12 amps.

Weighing around 60 pounds, it’s not too heavy, but it does take up a considerable amount of space which may not be ideal for small RVs. However, if you’re looking for a semi-compact unit able to both cool and heat your rig, whilst also having an included warranty from Black and Decker, it may just be worth it.

See more from this RV AC unit and read the latest reviews on Amazon by clicking here .

Most Versatile Option: Zero Breeze Mark 2 Battery Powered Portable Air Conditioner

Zero Breeze Mark 2 Battery Powered Portable Air Conditioner

• Versatile charging options
• Lightweight

I like versatility in my rig, which means I expect a lot from the RV products I purchase! I’ve already talked about a BLACK+DECKER portable AC unit, but I’ve found an impressive unit from a lesser-known brand that really packs a punch. This Zero Breeze Mark 2 Battery Powered AC is compact, measuring just 0.9″D x 8.3″W x 1.6″H, and is ideal for when I head out on the road alone as I can move it around to exactly where I need it to be. 

I enjoy using the useful handle as it makes maneuvering the device around convenient and easy. Since it only weighs 16.5 lbs it also doesn’t add a substantial amount of weight to my RV which is ideal as it’s pretty loaded already! This little unit doesn’t skip a beat with function and ability as it has a strong compressor, 24V operating voltage, high-performance battery system, and has the capability to be powered by 4 x 100W solar panels which is the perfect option for off-grid camping and boondocking . 

Some RV AC devices I’ve seen require the use of ice or water, but this little device doesn’t need either, and as soon as it’s plugged in, the air gets cooler in such a short space of time. I like the use of a Smart Battery as it only takes 5-8 hours to be fully charged. This may be too long for some, but I think it’s a small price to pay for such a cool (pardon the pun!) and functional little unit. 

The remote control makes using this Zero Breeze unit a breeze, and included with the AC device is a 24V power adapter, battery, dual-duct exhaust system, front air duct, drainage tube, and a user’s manual. 

Check out the latest reviews and prices on Amazon by clicking here .

Quietest Rooftop AC: Furrion CHILL Rooftop Air Conditioner with Electric Control

Furrion CHILL Rooftop Air Conditioner with Electric Control

• Enhanced safety features
• 2-year warranty

I travel year-round in my RV and I love nothing more than returning to my rig in the height of summer, switching the AC on, and cooling right down! Some RV AC units get the job done, but make an absolute racket during the process!

Well, not with this super-quiet Furrion CHILL Rooftop AC! It fits on the roof, has 15,500 BTUs, and includes an air distribution box, and a single basic wall thermostat so there’s not much else required to get this bad boy up and running, as discussed in the video below:

Although this unit runs quietly, it still cools in an energy-efficient way, thanks to the addition of two fans with individual motors to get the air inside an RV cooled fast! I’ve mentioned before how much I value safety and I think it’s awesome Furrion has taken things to the next level with the safety of this AC. There’s a start capacitor to aid the initial start-up of the device if the power in an RV is a little on the low side and short-cycle protection too.

I find I’m always trying to protect my RV from the sun , but Furrion is ahead of the game as they’ve created a UV-resistant cover to protect internal components. There’s also thermal insulation to aid in heat regulation so the device doesn’t overheat, even when the sun is beaming down and it’s scorching outside.

The running of this AC is quiet as I mentioned earlier, but the rubber dampeners also help make things more peaceful as they help prevent vibration! It’s features like this that prove to me Furrion has designed a product with RVers in mind, which I think makes all the difference.

For extra security, there’s a 2-year warranty, so I can keep cool and comfortable knowing my device is covered by Furrion. 

 Find out more and see the latest price on Amazon by clicking here .

Finding an efficient air conditioner for your RV is easier than ever before. While rooftop AC units are traditionally useful, keep in mind all of your options before making a final purchase. No matter what, it’ll be easy to keep cool this summer with one of these units!

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Smart AC Solutions

Talked About Air Conditioners

Can I Take an Air Conditioner on a Plane?

Most people don’t know that you can take an air conditioner on a plane with you. It’s actually quite easy to do and can make your flight a lot more comfortable.

• Check with the airline to see if they allow air conditioners on the plane
• If they do, find out what type of power source the plane uses so you can bring the right adapter
• Pack your air conditioner in a sturdy box or case to prevent damage during transport
• Check it as luggage at the airport and be sure to keep an eye on it during layovers and stops

Page Contents

Can You Fly With Air Conditioner?

Yes, you can fly with an air conditioner. However, there are a few things to consider before doing so. First, check with the airline to see if they have any restrictions on flying with an air conditioner. Some airlines do not allow them on board due to weight and size restrictions. Second, make sure the air conditioner is properly packed in a sturdy box that will not be damaged during transport. Third, pack any cords or power strips needed to operate the air conditioner in your carry-on luggage to avoid having them confiscated at security. Finally, be prepared for the possibility of increased noise from the air conditioner while in flight.

Can I Take a Portable Air Compressor on a Plane?

Yes, you can take a portable air compressor on a plane as long as it meets the TSA’s guidelines for carry-on items. The TSA states that compressed air tanks must be empty and have a pressure release valve in order to be brought onto a plane. You will also need to pack the compressor in your checked luggage if it is larger than your carry-on bag.

Can You Fly With Appliances?

There are a few things to consider when flying with appliances. The first is the size and weight of the appliance. Most airlines have restrictions on how much luggage you can bring, so it’s important to check with your airline before packing an appliance. If the appliance is small enough to fit in a carry-on bag, you should be able to bring it on the plane with you. However, larger appliances will need to be checked as baggage. Another thing to consider is whether or not your appliance will need special handling. Some appliances, such as hair straighteners and curling irons, can only be packed in checked luggage because they pose a fire hazard. Other items, like laptops and cameras, may need to be placed in special bins for x-ray screening at security checkpoints. Be sure to pack these items carefully so that they don’t get damaged during transit. Finally, think about what you’ll need to do once you arrive at your destination. Will you need an adapter plug in order to use your appliance? Will you be able to find replacement batteries if necessary? These are all factors that could affect whether or not it’s worth bringing an appliance along on your trip.

What Can You Not Bring on an Air Plane?

The TSA has a list of items that are prohibited on airplanes. These items include:

All of these items must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and must be placed in a single, clear, quart-sized bag. Only one item per bag is allowed.

Airplane Air Conditioning System

No Air Conditioning on Plane

As the summer heat continues to blaze, many of us are looking forward to our upcoming vacations. But for those who suffer from allergies or are simply sensitive to high temperatures, flying can be a nightmare. Airplanes are notoriously stuffy and uncomfortable, and if you’re unlucky enough to be seated in the middle of the plane, you could be in for a long, hot flight. There’s no law that requires airlines to have air conditioning on their planes , so it’s up to each individual carrier to decide whether or not they want to provide this amenity. Unfortunately, most airlines don’t see air conditioning as a necessity, which means that passengers often have to endure sweltering conditions during their flights. If you’re planning on flying during the summer months, it’s important to research your airline ahead of time to see if they have air conditioning on their planes. Some airlines will list this information on their websites, but others won’t mention it at all. You can also call the airline directly and ask about their policies regarding air conditioning. If your airline doesn’t have air conditioning on its planes, there are a few things you can do to stay cool during your flight. First, dress in light layers so that you can peel them off if necessary. Second, pack a small handheld fan or wet wipes that you can use to keep yourself cool. Finally, try to get an aisle seat so that you have some airflow and aren’t stuck in the middle of the plane with no way out!

Air-Conditioning on Planes Coronavirus

There is no doubt that the coronavirus has affected all of us in one way or another. One area that has been of particular concern is air travel. With so many people flying each day, there is a greater risk of exposure to the virus. However, there are steps that can be taken to minimize this risk. One measure that has been put in place by many airlines is to increase the amount of air circulation on planes. This means that the air inside the cabin is circulated more frequently, which reduces the chances of passengers being exposed to any harmful viruses or bacteria. In addition, many airlines have also installed HEPA filters on their planes. These filters are designed to trap and remove 99.97% of all airborne particles, including viruses and bacteria. Another precaution that has been taken by some airlines is to block off middle seats in order to allow for social distancing onboard. This helps to reduce exposure as well, as it becomes more difficult for someone who is sick to spread the virus if they are not seated next to another passenger. As always, it is important to practice good hygiene when travelling. This includes washing your hands regularly and avoiding touching your face. If you do feel sick while on a plane, it is important to let a flight attendant know so that they can take appropriate action. Overall, flying during the coronavirus pandemic does come with some risks but there are measures that can be taken to help reduce exposure.

Does Airplane Have Air Conditioner

It is a common misconception that airplanes do not have air conditioners. In fact, all commercial airplanes are equipped with air conditioners. The air conditioning system on an airplane is very similar to the one in your home or office, except that it is much larger and more powerful. The main purpose of the air conditioner on an airplane is to keep the cabin temperature comfortable for passengers. The system also filters and circulates the air to improve cabin air quality. On a typical commercial airplane, the air conditioning system can circulate up to 30,000 cubic feet of fresh, cool air per minute. The system also has sensors that monitor cabin temperature and humidity levels so that it can make adjustments as needed. So next time you’re flying, rest assured knowing that there is an air conditioner onboard keeping everyone comfortable!

As the weather gets warmer, many of us will be taking to the skies for vacation. And while air travel is a convenient way to get around, it can also be pretty uncomfortable. Airplane cabins are notoriously stuffy and dry, making them breed grounds for germs. But have you ever wondered how airplane air conditioning works? The truth is, it’s not that different from your home AC unit. Airplane air conditioners work by circulating cool air throughout the cabin. But because airplane cabins are much larger than most homes, they need a more powerful AC system to keep everyone comfortable. On most planes, there are two types of air conditioning systems: one for the passengers and one for the crew. The passenger AC system is responsible for cooling and filtering the air in the main cabin. It works by pulling in outside air and circulating it through a series of filters before sending it into the cabin via ducts or vents. Meanwhile, the crew AC system keeps things cool in the cockpit and other areas where crew members spend time (like the galley). This system is usually separate from the passenger AC system to prevent any cross contamination between areas of the plane. So next time you’re feeling hot and bothered on an airplane, just remember that there’s a whole team of people working hard to keep you comfortable!

Yes, you can take an air conditioner on a plane as long as it meets the size and weight requirements set by the airline. Most airlines allow carry-on luggage that is 22” x 14” x 9” and weighs no more than 40 pounds. If your air conditioner falls within these dimensions, you will need to pack it in a suitcase or other piece of luggage that meets the size and weight requirements. You may also want to contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about any special instructions for packing your air conditioner.

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Micheal Shawn was a Co-worker and Engineer of a Gardening Tool manufacturing company since 2013 and a passionate researcher on Machinery goods. Depending on my research ability over the years I created the Smart AC Solutions for Web and do review articles regarding AC and related accessories.

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Best RV Air Conditioners: Efficient And Affordable Cooling Solutions For Your Camper

Cool your RV and make camping a comfortable adventure with these top RV air conditioners.

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If you love spending time in your RV, whether it’s parked at your favorite national park, or driving all over the country exploring, one thing is certain: hot, humid nights create unhappy campers. Investing in a quality RV air conditioner can be a game-changer when it comes to creating a comfortable, climate-controlled environment that’s perfect for sleeping. Today’s RV air conditioners are efficient and powerful units that will cool your space quickly and help cut down on mold-causing humidity, keeping your RV cleaner and healthier. They come in a variety of sizes, installation configurations, and vary greatly in price. To help aid you in the decision-making process, we’ve come up with a list of some of the best RV air conditioners on the market.

ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air RV Air Conditioner

This 13,500 BTU AC unit is manufactured to be extra durable and effectively withstand harsh weather and temperatures while still running reliably.

• Compatible with most RV makes and models
• Reasonably priced
• Features an optional plug-in heat strip
• Concern over long-term reliability
• Control knobs tend to come off easily

Dometic Brisk II Rooftop Air Conditioner

This RV AC unit is our best value pick because of its great performance and affordable price point. It features a 15 percent increase in air flow over its predecessor, cooling your space quickly.

• Tough design withstands shocks and vibrations
• Compact structure works in any RV
• Limited power consumption
• Noisier operation than some other options
• Base pan is less durable than rest of AC unit

RecPro RV Air Conditioner 15K

This 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner functions as a heater in addition to an air conditioner, allowing you to kill two birds with one stone and save valuable RV space in the process.

• Rugged, streamlined design
• Compact height works well with almost any RV model
• Improved efficiency over previous models
• Installation manual can be confusing
• Heavier than some other units on the market

Summary List

• Best Overall: ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air RV Air Conditioner
• Best Value: Dometic Brisk II Rooftop Air Conditioner
• Best Premium: RecPro RV Air Conditioner 15K
• Best Dual-Motor: Furrion Chill 15,500 BTU RV Rooftop AC
• Most Versatile: Coleman 48204C866 Mach 15+ A/C Unit

Our Methodology

Our product selections, rankings, and awards for this story are based on research. While we haven’t conducted real-world testing yet on all of these products yet, we’ve looked at consumer testimonials and data, tutorials, and general discussions on social media and in forums. We also consider price and specification in the context of the segment. And, of course, we rely on our institutional knowledge of the automotive landscape to weed out weak products.

In order to be sure we chose the best available and most reliable RV air conditioners, we weeded through countless dozens of options available. When it comes to RV air conditioners, there is a surprising number of choices, so we narrowed it down by relying on our own personal expertise, as well as the experiences of thousands of satisfied, and unsatisfied, customers. 

In the end, we also wanted to provide you with options that were suitable for a wide variety of RV makes and models, and not specialized to one specific RV type, because let’s face it, there are a ton of different RV styles and sizes out there. We further eliminated options that were manufactured by companies that didn’t already have a stellar reputation and a long-standing track record of producing high-performance, durable products. The result is the list you see above.

Best RV Air Conditioners: Reviews and Recommendations

Best Overall

When it comes to our top pick for the best overall RV air conditioner, it’s got to be the ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air RV Air Conditioner. It’s a 13,500 BTU unit capable of effectively and quickly cooling even large RVs. Manufactured to be durable, this rooftop air conditioner is designed to withstand some of the harshest elements, from direct sunlight to driving rain and wind. It also features a rigid, all-metal construction base pan.

We also like that this air conditioner comes with everything you need to get up and running quickly — and you can also get an optional plug-in heat strip for added customization. A high-quality, thick, watertight vent opening gasket features six foam pads that ensure no water gets through, even in the most driving rain. 

This unit also fits ideally with most standard 14.25 x 14.25-inch vent openings, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of RVs. There have been a few customer complaints about the overall cooling capability, but these issues have been limited to just a selection of units. Our advice would be to try it out immediately upon arrival so you can troubleshoot any issues early on.

• Brand: ASA Electronics
• Model: Advent 13.5
• Weight: 50 pounds
• Relatively affordable
• Fits most RV makes and models
• Can add an optional plug-in heat strip
• Some concern over long-term cooling power
• Doesn’t include inside ceiling kit with purchase
• Control knobs fall off easily

The Dometic Brisk II Rooftop Air Conditioner sets itself apart from the competition with a bunch of features that you’ll normally find on pricier models. This RV air conditioner packs a respectable 13,500 BTUs of power that can cool recreational vehicles of all sizes. You don’t need to worry about the power consumption, as this model offers a 15 percent increase in airflow from its previous version, while still drawing the same amount of power. As a result, the Brisk II is now compatible with standard air vents. You get better cooling capacity since the distribution box uses central air delivery. 

Moreover, the unit is made from quality materials for better durability, absorbing shocks and vibrations, as well as all types of weather, with its stable and strong frame. One thing to watch out for with this model is the base pan. It’s less durable than the rest of the unit and customers have reported that it’s also a bit noisier during operation than some other models. The packaging is another issue that needs to be addressed since the box doesn’t protect the unit from major damage during shipping. Finally, the starting electrical load is too high for small generators.

• Brand: Dometic
• Model: ‎B59516.XX1J0
• Weight: 74 pounds
• Base pan is not very durable
• Noisier than some other options
• Control unit is sold separately, adding to the overall cost

Best Premium

The RecPro RV Air Conditioner 15K gets high marks for being one of the only units on our list that’s both an air conditioning and a heating unit, letting you extend your RV season to the max. It’s a non-ducted setup that’s quick and easy to install. Like most other air conditioners on the market, it’s available in black or white and runs off 115 volts of power. This unit features a quiet operating noise level of less than 60 decibels and draws just 12 amps for heating and 14 amps for cooling, which is less than many other models available. That translates into less electricity use for you which can amount to significant savings over time. 

This unit also comes with a straightforward and easy-to-read wireless remote control for added convenience. While it is on the high end of the price range, this air conditioner does come with everything you need for installation and since it doubles as a heater, it’s actually a great value for your investment.

• Brand: RecPro
• Model: RP-AC3800
• Weight: 80.3 pounds
• Can be used as an AC unit and also as a heating unit
• Sleek and modern looking
• Comes with everything you need for complete installation

Best Dual-Motor

Furrion Chill 15,500 BTU RV Rooftop AC

The Furrion Chill 15,500 BTU RV Rooftop AC features a sleek and modern design that fits almost any RV. It has a powerful output of 15,500 BTU, which is ideal for cooling medium to large RVs quickly, and it’s equipped with dual-fan technology and features a lightweight insulated heat exchanger housing and an isolated plastic base. 

This unit features 50 percent greater cooling capacity and 40 percent better energy efficiency when compared to many other models we looked at, too. We also like that this RV air conditioner is built with the brand’s ClimateSmart and VibrationSmart technologies that help improve its overall durability and longevity. 

The Chill also has a UV-resistant cover with thermal insulation to protect components from damage due to heat, rain, sun, and debris. One thing many users note is that installation of this unit can be somewhat difficult compared to other models and that the instruction manual is not as clear or understandable as it should be if you’re doing a self-install.

• Brand: Furrion
• Model: FACR15SA-PS-AM
• Weight: 84 pounds
• Powerful enough to cool larger RVs
• Uses eco-friendly coolant
• Boasts the highest energy efficiency rating on the market 
• Instruction manual needs to be easier to understand
• Doesn’t come with everything you need to do a complete installation

Most Versatile

Coleman 48204C866 Mach 15+ A/C Unit

If you want the ultimate in functionality, versatility, and aerodynamic design, check out the Coleman 48204C866 Mach 15+ A/C Unit. This unit is one of the most powerful RV air conditioners you can buy. It features a 1/3 HP fan motor, which is the largest available in an RV air conditioning unit and it can move air at an impressive 320 CFM. 

It fits perfectly in most existing 14 x 14-inch rooftop vent openings, making it a great choice for almost any RV make and model. It’s charged with eco-friendly R-410A refrigerant, which is better for the environment than typical freon. And with 15,000 BTUs of power, you can be sure your RV will be cooled to your liking in no time. 

It has a streamlined design that helps enhance airflow over the top of the unit and allows for improved cooling efficiency. Gas-flux brazed joints and all-copper tubing are durable construction elements that you won’t find in all RV air conditioner models. This unit is also set up to accept an optional heater assembly that’s capable of pumping out up to 5,600 BTUs of heat. It is, however, one of the pricier units on our list and it doesn’t come with an included thermostat.

• Brand: Coleman
• Model: 08-0080
• Weight: 90 pounds
• Can be modified to be a heater as well as an air conditioner
• Compatible with almost all RV makes and models
• Features the largest and most powerful fan motor on the market
• One of the heaviest units on our list
• Doesn’t come with an included thermostat

Our Verdict on the Best RV Air Conditioners

Now that you know what to look for in a top-quality, high-performance RV air conditioner, it’s probably easy to see why we chose the ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air RV Air Conditioner as our top pick. It’s a reasonably priced unit that’s compatible with most RV makes and models. It also comes with an optional plug-in heat strip, making it an even better value. 

For a more budget-friendly option, we like the Dometic Brisk II Rooftop Air Conditioner . It’s a well-built RV air conditioner that comes with a lot of features you will only find in pricier models. This newly revamped version also offers a 15 percent increase in airflow from its previous version, giving you a bigger bang for your buck.

What to Look For

When it comes to selecting the ideal RV air conditioner to suit your needs, there are several key factors that, if addressed appropriately, will ensure you get a great product that will last you a long time. After all, RV air conditioners aren’t cheap, so you want to make sure that you’re getting the most out of your investment won’t be left sweating and miserable on those 100-degree days.

Benefits of RV Air Conditioners

• Customizable comfort level. When the temperature outside becomes unbearable, you’ll appreciate the cool air inside your RV. Whether you’re camping or on the road, an efficient RV air conditioner is a necessity. It makes the difference between a comfortable experience and one you’d rather forget. 
• Clean indoor air. The air quality inside the RV gets better with an AC unit installed. No more dust or allergies; fresh and moving air is less likely to breed germs or impact the health of those living on board.

Types of RV Air Conditioners

Rooftop .

Rooftop air conditioner units are popular since they save you space inside the RV. Their ideal place on top of the vehicle means the brisk air outside cools the RV AC unit, and low-profile units consume less energy and have a lower risk of damage when passing under bridges. Rooftop AC systems come in two options: ducted and non-ducted. Ducted systems are suited for large RVs, as they push the cool air to all corners of the RV. Non-ducted units are suitable for smaller RVs and cost less.  

Under Bench

The under-bench RV air conditioner, as you might expect, is located inside your vehicle. It’s stored under a seating bench or inside a cabinet. So while it does take up valuable storage space inside your RV, it’s a perfect option if you have an RV with a curved or already overcrowded roof. It does allow you to keep your windows free and unaffected by ductwork.

Portable units have a smaller size and a better design, as you can move them around, and they don’t require installation. They take up space inside the RV and need extra care for handling. The units are energy efficient but require a hose to avoid water leakage. Instead of the usual refrigeration process, the unit evaporates the air and releases a cold air stream to cool the area. 

A Swedish company opening its doors in 2001, it manufactures a wide range of products, designed for recreational vehicles. With a global distribution network dealing in over 100 countries. Its product line continues to evolve, including everything from camping gear to power systems for RVs and boats. Among its top climate control systems for RVs is the Dometic B59516.XX1J0 Brisk , favored for its powerful cooling effects. 

This brand falls under the Dometic manufacturing umbrella, but it’s still worth noting. It was successfully bought out due to its high-grade products spanning from heating systems to windows and doors. Focusing on the recreational vehicle industry, you’re likely to find an Atwood product in just about every modern RV. An Illinois-based company, it dates back to 1909, continuing to innovate tech in the RV industry. One of its helpful products when setting up an RV air conditioner is the Atwood Ducted Ceiling Assembly . 

Furrion is a company that’s dedicated to melding modern luxury with sustainability. The founding partners met as engineers on a megayacht crew, so they understand what luxury mobile living means on a personal level. 

Founded in Kingfisher, Okla. in 1900 by William Coffin Coleman, this company has been manufacturing and delivering reliable and trusted camping and outdoor equipment for more than 120 years. From tents and sleeping bags, to camp stoves, gas-powered generators, and RV air conditioners like the Coleman 48204C869 RV Air Conditioner , there’s almost nothing you can’t get to make your camping or RV experience as comfortable as possible.

Key Features

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and it’s a technical specification that can help you decide which AC suits your RV based on its size and average local weather conditions. The average AC unit has 13,500 BTU power. This is enough power to cool down a large RV. Humid weather conditions demand more BTU power in your AC. If you visit areas with high humidity or extreme temperatures, you’ll need to invest in a unit with more BTU power. 

Power Consumption

Air conditioning units consume a lot of energy, so choosing a unit that consumes less power saves you money in the long run. 

Air Purifier

Air with poor quality is a health hazard, especially for people prone to allergies or respiratory issues. Not all RV air conditioners have built-in air purifying systems. Those that have them, however, do a good job of removing odors. The air purifier improves the quality of the air inside the RV and keeps it fresh and clean, regardless of the conditions outside.

Not all RV air conditioners are manufactured to the same size specifications. Be sure to measure your existing unit or the hole for the AC unit prior to purchasing. This is true for rooftop units, under-bench models, and window units. Most rooftop openings measure 14 x 14 inches, but some can be smaller or larger, depending on the manufacturer.

Q: Can I heat my RV with the air conditioning unit as well?

You cannot use the unit to heat the RV in cold weather unless it comes with a heat pump. If your AC doesn’t have a heat pump, you can buy heat strips or a heater assembly kit. 

Q: How often should I maintain my RV air conditioner?

Every two months. Check for cracks in the plastic. Clean the filters and air vents and check for wear and tear marks on the unit.

Q: Can I run my RV air conditioner on battery power?

While you technically can run your RV air conditioner using battery power, it’s not recommended. RV air conditioners are power draws that can quickly drain your batteries down to an unusable state, even with plentiful solar panels to help recharge them. It’s usually best to run your AC only when the engine is running, plugged into pedestal power, or by using an appropriately sized gas-powered generator. 

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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• Flight Detroit - Denver (DTW - DEN) $65+
• Flight Los Angeles - Denver (LAX - DEN) $69+
• Flight Ontario - Denver (ONT - DEN) $69+
• Flight Atlanta - Denver (ATL - DEN) $75+
• Hi Boston Hostel $61+
• Found Hotel Boston Common $99+
• Ramada by Wyndham Boston $153+
• Flight Baltimore - Boston (BWI - BOS) $52+
• Flight Philadelphia - Boston (PHL - BOS) $57+
• Flight Miami - Boston (MIA - BOS) $68+
• Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Atlanta Airport $63+
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Atlanta Airport North $101+
• Sonesta Atlanta Airport North $105+
• Flight Detroit - Atlanta (DTW - ATL) $36+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (HOU - ATL) $36+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (IAH - ATL) $36+
• Generator Madrid $34+
• C&h Aravaca Garden $39+
• Toc Hostel Madrid $44+
• Flight New York - London (JFK - LHR) $354+
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• Rodeway Inn Fairgrounds-Casino $68+
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• Flight Newark - Florida (EWR - USFL) $55+
• Flight Raleigh - Tampa (RDU - TPA) $47+
• Flight Atlanta - Tampa (ATL - TPA) $50+
• Flight Cincinnati - Tampa (CVG - TPA) $56+

New Orleans

• Ramada by Wyndham New Orleans $68+
• Wyndham Garden Hotel Baronne Plaza $93+
• Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans Canal St. French Quarter $101+
• Flight Dallas - New Orleans (DFW - MSY) $50+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - New Orleans (FLL - MSY) $53+
• Flight Chicago - New Orleans (ORD - MSY) $56+

Frequently asked questions about KAYAK

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Simply use one of our travel search engines to scan for prices gathered from hundreds of travel sites. KAYAK’s search results pages have loads of filter options to help you find deals, discover exactly what you’re looking for and make booking seamless. Plus, there’s no extra fee from KAYAK.

How can I use KAYAK to manage my travel bookings?

KAYAK Trips creates a travel itinerary for you that will give you flight status alerts, can be shared with friends and more. Simply forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] or use the KAYAK app and sync your email account to keep all your travel plans organized in one app, even if you didn’t book with KAYAK. You can share your holiday plans with friends and family and also check out your travel stats for past vacations, like how far you’ve traveled, your most popular cities and how many times you’ve traveled around the world. Even if you don’t have signal, don’t worry, as you can access Trips to check out your itineraries whilst on the road. Your data is safe and secure with us and you won’t have to re-enter credit card info when booking future trips. If you want to make changes or cancel bookings, then you should contact the travel provider, which is provided on the booking confirmation.

What makes KAYAK a great travel app?

On the KAYAK app for iOS and Android you’ll find all the great travel offers found on the website and much more. There are special mobile rates and app only deals that allow you to save even more money. Plus, you can get notifications straight to your phone letting you know when prices for your next trip have dropped. But the KAYAK app is much more than just a travel app. Use the Trips function to manage your travel itinerary and get up to date status alerts on flights, check-in changes and to store your boarding pass. Even if you’re in the middle of nowhere on your travels, you can still access your travel notes via Trips, as no internet connection is required.

What are KAYAK Price Alerts?

Instead of manually checking back in on the price of your next flight or stay, let KAYAK do the hard work for you with KAYAK Price Alerts. Once you’ve saved your search, our data will determine how the price will rise or fluctuate over the coming days. You’ll then get a push notification letting you know when’s the perfect time to book.

8 Best Portable Air Conditioners of 2024, Tested by Experts

These top-performing ACs bring the cool to any room in the house.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Whynter dual hose portable air conditioner.

TCL 5P93C Smart Series Portable Air Conditioner

Best Battery Powered

Ef ecoflow wave 2 portable air conditioner.

Best Without a Hose

Honeywell portable evaporative cooler with fan.

Best for Apartments

Black+decker bpact08wt portable air conditioner.

Best for Large Rooms

Delonghi pac-uv portable air conditioner.

Best Portable Air Conditioner and Heater

Whynter arc-12sdh portable air conditioner and heater.

Best with Wi-Fi

Lg smart portable air conditioner.

After our top picks, you’ll find more details on how we test portable air conditioners as well as buying tips to consider when shopping for the best unit for your home. Don’t miss our other round-ups of top home-comfort products, including the best smart air conditioners , room fans and dehumidifiers .

Boasting an impressive 14,000 BTUs, this powerful yet relatively quiet portable AC from Whynter performed capably across our tough performance tests. You'll pay more for its dual-hose design, but that helps it condition spaces effectively and efficiently (though it cooled slightly slower than other dual-hose models in this round-up).

The Whynter's versatility is what makes it our top pick for most shoppers. For starters, it doubles as a dehumidifier, helpful since high indoor humidity often goes hand-in-hand with soaring temperatures. " In dehumidifier mode, the AC removed up to 101 pints of moisture in a 24-hour period," said Alec Scherma , test engineer at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where he reviews a slew of devices related to home comfort.

This newly upgraded model of the Whynter, which packs up to 600 square feet of cooling power and dehumidification, also includes a heater that can take interior temperatures up to a cozy 78°F and hold them there.

Testers like the programmable timer that lets you set a schedule for the day, for example, programming the AC to turn on 30 minutes before you'll be home from work. Other user-friendly features include a digital display that makes it easy to monitor temperatures. The 5-foot-long exhaust hose gives you some flexibility in terms of placement within a room.

Finally, the storage bag is another nice convenience if you do need to stow the unit away during the off season — though don't be surprised if you end up putting the top-scoring Whynter to work all year long.

What sets this portable AC apart from the competition is the pinpoint temperature control. In our demanding precision temperature tests, we set the machine to 64º F and returned to measure the room a short time later to find it at 65.6º F. No other portable AC came as close to achieving near-perfect temperature control as this one from TCL.

The air coming from this AC also came out faster and reached farther than other tested models, though the tradeoff is some expected noisiness, particularly on max fan settings. Our experts also like the Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control the unit via a smartphone app. If you don't feel like downloading the app, it also comes with a remote.

Looking to cool down larger spaces? Our experts say this model's brand mate, the TCL 10,000 , will perform comparably up to 350 square feet, while offering the same bevy of convenience features.

EcoFlow’s Wave 2 was a winner in Good Housekeeping's Home Reno Awards based on the strength of its innovative design, which combines cooling and heating capabilities in a single machine. It also includes a battery pack that can be charged at an AC outlet, DC car charger or solar panel, so it can deliver up to eight hours of off-the-grid comfort, say, on a camping trip or during a power outage. “We really like this combo unit for homeowners who live in four-season climates and need portable AC during the summer months and a space heater come winter,” said Scherma.

During initial Lab tests, our engineers were impressed by the innovative mechanics of the two-in-one unit, though they noted that its 5,100 BTU cooling capacity is on the lower end of the spectrum for portable ACs; the output translates into a relatively small 107-square-foot cooling area.

GH Analyst Jacqueline Saguin tested the multitasker in cooling mode in her Brooklyn, NY home. Set-up was straightforward and the controls were intuitive. "Right after installation, it immediately went to work quickly and effectively cooling down my space," she said. One other caveat she noted: The dual-hose design took up extra space in her small studio apartment.

This inexpensive evaporative air cooler is ideal for dryer climates, where relative humidity stays under 45%. "You'll get more of a cool breeze than an intense blast of cold air, but it's a solid affordable option for a room that needs a slight chill," said Scherma.

Because the Honeywell cools the air by the evaporation of water, it doesn't need to be vented to a window to work, so you have more flexibility in choosing where to place it. The compact tower design would work well in a small bedroom or office where space may be an issue. It weighs just 11.2 pounds, making it easier to move around than traditional portable ACs, which generally start around 50 pounds.

The remote enables you to control the unit from your bed or the couch. Plus, this high-efficiency cooler pulls less power than other options in this round-up, so you could have a few running at the same time and still use less energy than a single portable AC.

Our experts like this 8,000-BTU unit for cooling a bedroom or studio apartment. It's quieter than other portable air conditioners, and at 53 pounds, relatively easy to move around. However, the quiet operation and compact design come at the cost of less cooling power. And the single-hose exhaust system will really start to struggle in rooms that are larger than 350 square feet.

The well-priced portable AC has many features our experts look for, including a remote control for easy operation and a washable air filter that slides out the back of the unit for easy cleaning.

If you need to cool down an extra-large space, like a great room or big studio apartment, the 14,000-BTU DeLonghi is a solid choice, with its chart-topping 700-square-foot cooling capacity. Like all portable ACs, it makes some noise at full power, but the quiet-mode setting cuts the clamor in half, making it good for bedrooms. In fact, during our testing, our experts determined this to be one of the quieter ACs, even when it wasn't running on quiet mode.

Our pros also like the washable filter screen, which makes the unit a good fit for allergy sufferers. Keep in mind that this single-hose model uses slightly more energy than some of our other picks, per our energy consumption testing.

This all-in-one cooler, dehumidifier, fan and heater will get you through the year with its multi-functionality. Whynter claims this unit can cool up to 400 square feet, and it can dehumidify up to 96 pints over 24 hours.

The two-hose operation helps it cool a room faster than single-hose portable ACs, and the front-facing read-out allows you to monitor the temperature with ease. You can program it for up to a 24-hour period. Like the other Whynter models we looked at for this report, it consumes more energy than competing portable ACs, but that's the tradeoff for its versatility and exceptional cooling power.

When our engineers tested LG's 8,000 BTU unit, we found it to be relatively quiet for its output and also easy to move from room to room, thanks to its lightweight design and easy rolling casters. It was able to produce some of the coolest temperatures out of all the units we tested, though there was considerable set-point deviation at five minutes during our cooling test, so expect it to take some time to equilibrate to your desired temperature.

LG is known for innovation and this portable AC lives up to the reputation. With the built-in Wi-Fi, you can start or stop your cooling remotely , handy for getting a room's temperature just right before you enter. You can also use voice control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for hands-free operation.

Our experts like that you can set it to cool mode, fan mode or dry mode, making it easy to create the ideal environment based on what sort of day it is ( for example, muggy versus dry and hot). We also found the machine's controls to be clear and easy to use.

How we test portable air conditioners

Our Good Housekeeping Institute product experts start by shopping the current marketplace to identify the top-selling portable ACs that you’re most likely to find at stores and online. Next, we identify brands that have performed the best and proven the most reliable through years of AC testing at the Good Housekeeping Institute. We also consider newer brands with unique features or innovations.

Hands-on evaluations mainly happened in our Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab, where our engineers and experts spent more than 100 hours testing and reviewing 30 new models and analyzing scores of technical data.

Performance testing covers multiple factors. We check to see how close the air temperature coming out of the AC is to our set point. Next, we measure air speed with an anemometer (pictured). This tells us how quickly the AC can cool a room.

We then assess how much power each device consumed using a Kill-a-Watt electricity usage monitor (pictured). Knowing that portable ACs are often used in bedrooms, we check decibel ranges at various fan speeds using a sound meter.

We also tested some units at home over a six-week period to better evaluate them in real-world conditions. Our engineers consider a variety of factors, starting with ease of set-up. We take into account how intuitive the user manuals and other instructions are.

What type of portable air conditioner is best?

Portable ACs work by drawing in air, cooling it with the use of evaporative coils and exhausting the leftover heat through a tube that is typically vented through a window. There are two types of portable ACs that use this basic engineering: single-hose and dual-hose. The best choice for you will come down to a few factors. Here's what to know about each:

✔️ Single-hose portable AC: This is the most common type of portable air conditioner and also the least expensive. So if you're on a tight budget, it's your best bet. It features one exhaust hose which vents heat from the unit to the outside. Air to be cooled is pulled directly from the room.

This leads to the main drawback of single-hose ACs: They create negative pressure in the room, meaning hot air from outside or other unconditioned parts of the house will be drawn into the room through any openings, like cracks around windows and doors. This makes it harder for the AC to maintain consistent temperatures and the units also have to work harder, making them less energy efficient. For this reason, our experts say single-hose ACs are generally best for smaller spaces (200 square feet or less) where the heat and humidity doesn't get too extreme.

✔️ Dual-hose portable AC : As the name suggests, these units feature two hoses that usually connect to the same window — one to take air in and one to exhaust it. Using outside air to cool the system instead of air from the room eliminates the negative pressure issue.

That's why our experts say to go for a dual-hose unit if you need to cool a larger space that can get quite hot and humid. It will be more effective at keeping the room cool and it will use less energy in the process, since the motor won't have to work as hard. The downside is you'll have to spend considerably more for a dual-hose portable AC, as much as $300 more based on current prices. What about evaporative coolers (EC)? We include these devices in this report because A) they are portable and B) they are designed to cool a space. But that's where the similarity between evaporative coolers and portable ACs ends.

ECs do not have exhaust or intake hoses. Instead, they use the process of evaporative cooling to cool a space. The only moving part is the internal fan that moves air across a water reservoir and cooling pads. As this happens, the water slowly evaporates, creating cooler air which is then expelled back into the room.

ECs produce more of a cool breeze than a blast of cold air; they're ideal in dry climates where humidity levels are low and the air is hot.

ECs use much less energy than any other AC type, as they do not have internal parts that do the cooling. Since they don't need to be exhausted, you can use ECs in any space, or even outside .

How many BTUs should a portable AC be?

Short for British Thermal Units, BTUs are a measure of air conditioner capacity that equates to a particular room size. Choosing the right capacity is essential: Too strong and you’ll waste unnecessary power, while a portable AC that is too weak won't cool effectively and, in the process, will waste energy by continuously running at full tilt. That's why the DOE recommends an average of 20 BTUs for each square foot of living space .

✔️ When to size down in BTUs: After you calculate BTUs based on room size, you might find that you're in between offered sizes. Our experts say it's better to opt for the smaller unit. Using too powerful of an AC can be detrimental to the cooling and the comfort of the room, as it won’t properly dehumidify the air as it cools. While you’ll have to run a smaller AC for longer, it will be more efficient, and the room will be more comfortable.

✔️ When to size up in BTUs: It's important to recognize that not all rooms are built the same. You’ll want to size up your AC if it is in a room with the following:

• High ceilings that create more space that needs to be cooled
• High traffic as more people means more heat generated
• Lots of sun (e.g. a room with a lot of south-facing windows)
• Near the kitchen with a lot of heat-generating appliances

A note on BTU measurements : Previously, BTUs were indicated with a measurement based on testing standards from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) . BTUs were measured based only on an ambient temperature of 80º F. And while this rating is still used to sell products, a more accurate BTU rating is the newer scale known as Seasonal Adjusted Cooling Capacity (SACC) , a recent standard introduced by the Department of Energy (DOE).

SACC is a rating of BTU per hour that is meant to portray the capabilities of the machine more accurately by providing a weighted average based on a variety of test conditions, not just an average use case. (Think: a combination of normal usage, a muggy day, a particularly hot or dry day, etc.)

New SACC ratings will show lower maximum BTUs than previous ratings. So an AC that previously had a 14,000 BTU ASHRAE rating may now have a SACC rating closer to 10,000 BTU to more accurately reflect cooling in a range of conditions.

Are portable air conditioners as good as window units?

Short answer: no. Window ACs cool more effectively and efficiently than portable units, because their heat-generating mechanical parts are located outside of the room that's being cooled. Here are other pros and cons to weigh when choosing between the two types:

• Portable ACs are easier to move. They're on wheels after all. Window ACs need to be properly secured, held in place and connected to the window (some even require you to drill into the frame).
• Portable ACs fit more window types . Another benefit of a portable AC's exhaust hose is that it allows the unity to connect to different window types. While window ACs only work with vertical double-hung windows, portable ACs work with horizontal sliding windows as well. Portable ACs can also work with smaller window types that may not fit a window unit.
• Portable ACs are noisier and heavier than window ACs. Portable units tend to be louder, since all their mechanicals are sitting right there in the room, instead of out the window. They can also be larger than their counterparts, weighing up to 80 pounds.
• Portable ACs take up more square footage than window ACs . Because they sit inside the room they cool, portable ACs unit take up more floor space. Our experts recommend placing the unit away from walls so the airflow isn’t restricted, but that will likely mean a longer hose and more space taken up. For proper efficiency, make sure the exhaust hose is as straight as possible, since kinks can limit its effectiveness.

Do portable ACs have to be vented out a window?

Standard portable ACs must be vented out a window to exhaust the hot air they produce. You can also choose to vent through a wall or ceiling — anything that will send the hot air to another space. The machines don't produce toxic fumes, like carbon monoxide, so the venting is about cooling performance, not safety.

However, evaporative coolers don't need to be vented . These units require a large amount of water or ice to cool the space.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For many decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has provided expert reviews and advice on all things home-related, including portable air conditioners and other HVAC equipment. This project was spearheaded by Alec Scherma , test engineer at the Institute. Scherma's background in mechanical engineering and HVAC consulting provides testing expertise and knowledge on the different types of HVAC equipment one can purchase. Scherma worked closely with Dan DiClerico , director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab. DiClerico brings more than 20 years of experience to the Institute, having reviewed thousands of home-comfort products, including room air conditioners , air purifiers , space heaters , humidifiers , dehumidifiers and more.

Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute . A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.

Alec Scherma (he/him) is the Good Housekeeping Institute ’s test engineer, where he helps to create and implement new product testing methodology across home, cooking and cleaning appliances, wellness, tech products and more. He graduated from Drexel University’s College of Engineering with a B.A. in mechanical engineering.

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How to find cheap flights, what is the best day to buy a plane ticket.

This just in! Airfares offered on Thursdays tend to be the cheapest, according to flight demand on Travelocity in 2021. Tuesday and Wednesday prices are also good, but you may want to prepare your budget if booking during the weekend, as data shows that is when prices are generally at their highest.

What are the cheapest days to fly?

Frequent travelers may already know this, but earlier in the week can be the cheapest time to fly. In 2021, flights departing on a Monday were generally the cheapest of the week, whereas you may pay a premium for weekend flights when demand is usually high. On average, tickets were most expensive for Saturday departures, so if you need to fly out on a weekend, you might look for deals ahead of time.

How far in advance can you book a flight?

Trying to figure out how early you should book your flight? It’s possible to start comparing international airfares on Travelocity up to 12 months in advance. However, it does depend on the carrier as not all airlines release their prices that far out. According to our 2021 flight demand trends, last minute planners can still bag a bargain with some of the cheapest fares appearing 0-2 weeks prior to their travel dates.

*According to flight demand on Travelocity.com from January to December 2021. Savings are subject to change based on departure location, date and destination.

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North America has lagged behind the rest of the world as demand for airline travel increased.

Globally there was a 21.5% increase in total demand in February compared with the same month last year, according to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) .

The airline trade group measured demand in terms of revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), which is the number of paying travelers multiplied by the distance traveled.

International travel appeared to rise in popularity more than domestic flights . Demand was up more than a quarter compared to a 15% boost for domestic travel.

Since this February included a leap day, there might be an extra bump in comparing the data between years.

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However, North America was the only market not to record a double-digit rise in passenger demand.

According to IATA, Asia Pacific had the highest increase in RPK at 37.8%, followed by Africa at 22.5%.

But demand in North America, which accounts for about a quarter of the global airline market, only increased by 8.9%.

The sharper rises in the rest of the world could reflect an ongoing recovery from the pandemic, which happened faster in the US in particular.

"There is good reason to be optimistic about the industry's prospects in 2024," said Willie Walsh, the IATA director-general.

As well as increased demand, he cited more investment in green technologies to help reduce the industry's climate impact .

Walsh also warned politicians to "resist the temptation of cash grabs with new taxes that could destabilize this positive trajectory and make travel more expensive."

He added: "In particular, Europe is a worry as it seems determined to lock in its sluggish economic recovery with uncompetitive tax proposals."

Watch: Why Hooters Air, Pan Am, and the Concorde all disappeared from the skies

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Travel could be a good deal this summer. Here's when plane ticket prices will peak.

Spring is springing and according to Hopper, it’s time to start thinking about your summer vacation plans.

New data from the online booking site shows some favorable trends for travelers in the next few months, including slightly lower airfares compared to 2023, and hotel and car rental prices that are more or less flat year-over-year.

Here’s what you need to know as you prepare to book, whether you’re looking to take a domestic getaway or go on an overseas adventure. It’s also not too late to take advantage of deals on some last-minute trips.

How much are spring and summer plane tickets?

According to Hopper, the best deals right now are on domestic airline tickets. Round-trip flights within the U.S. are averaging $290 in April, but prices are expected to rise in the months ahead.

Hopper’s data shows prices for domestic flights will peak between May and June at $315 on average, and then will gradually fall through the summer, reaching a low of $264 on average in September.

On a call with investors discussing first-quarter earnings Wednesday, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said summer travel demand has been pushed forward in recent years due in part to schools, especially in the South, finishing their summer breaks earlier in the year.

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This summer will also be a good time to travel internationally, with Hopper data showing fares to most destinations abroad down compared to last year. 

“Airfare to international destinations continues to improve following two years of bloated prices due to quickly recovering demand, high fuel prices and supply constraints. Airfare to most major regions of the world has dropped compared to last year with the exception of trips to Canada,” Hayley Berg, Hopper’s chief economist, said in the report. “International fares remain higher than pre-pandemic levels to most regions, as higher fuel prices persist and airlines continue to rebuild capacity to many regions.”

How much will a hotel room for the spring and summer cost?

Hotel prices remain more or less flat compared to the same time last year. Rooms in the U.S. are averaging $206 per night currently, with even better deals available in some trending international destinations like Osaka, Japan and Istanbul, Turkey.

According to Hopper, Las Vegas, New York and Chicago remain popular destinations in the U.S.

Will car rental prices go up this summer?

Car rental prices also haven’t gone up much since last year, averaging $42 per day currently, according to Hopper.

The report shows that most travelers rent a car for about four days and warm weather destinations like Orlando and Los Angeles remain popular pickup points.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Updated on: April 5, 2024 / 4:36 PM EDT / CBS News

An  earthquake  centered in New Jersey and felt across the New York City region on Friday disrupted air and rail travel, with ground stoppages at airports in the New York City area and delays in train service. 

Travel operations were momentarily halted Friday morning with ground stoppages at John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens and at Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, New Jersey, with crews working to resume normal air traffic operations. By early afternoon, the ground stoppage at JFK had been lifted. 

Arriving and departing flights in Newark also resumed in the afternoon, but delays averaged roughly two hours,  according  to the Federal Aviation Administration. 

The earthquake, which occurred roughly 10:20 a.m. Eastern time, had either a 4.7 or 4.8 magnitude and was centered near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, 40 miles west of New York City,  according to the United States Geological Survey.

Newark airport is experiencing average departure delays of 43 minutes, according to flight tracking website FlightAware. Inbound aircraft that are already airborne are delayed by about an hour. Inbound flights that have not yet taken off are being held until 12:30 p.m., according to the site.  

Flights in and out of LaGuardia airport in Queens were also delayed, likely in order for airport staff to check for damage to the airport and runways and clear away any debris. 

The ground stoppages and delays are not expected to last long. 

Additionally, New Jersey Transit said it's experiencing up to 20-minute delays across its entire rail service system, in both directions. NJ Transit said it's inspecting a bridge for damage to ensure train travel is safe. 

—CBS News' Kris Van Cleave contributed reporting.

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News Streaming to discuss her reporting.

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Delta Air Lines posts a narrow Q1 profit and says travel demand remains strong despite flight scares

Delta Air Lines eked out a narrow first-quarter profit and said Wednesday that demand for travel is strong heading into the summer vacation season, with travelers seemingly unfazed by recent incidents in the industry that ranged from a panel blowing off a jetliner in flight to a tire falling off another plane during takeoff.

Delta reported the highest revenue for any first quarter in its history and a $37 million profit. It expects record-breaking revenue in the current quarter as well. The airline said that second-quarter earnings will likely beat Wall Street expectations.

CEO Ed Bastian said Delta’s best 11 days ever for ticket sales occurred during the early weeks of 2024.

If travelers are worried about a spate of problem flights and increased scrutiny of plane maker Boeing , “I haven’t seen it,” Bastian said in an interview. “I only look at my numbers. Demand is the healthiest I’ve ever seen.”

A slight majority of Delta’s fleet of more than 950 planes are Boeing models, but in recent years it has bought primarily from Airbus , including a January order for 20 big Airbus A350s. As a result, Delta will avoid the dilemma facing rivals United Airlines and American Airlines, which can’t get all the Boeing planes they ordered. United is even asking pilots to take unpaid time off in May because of a plane shortage.

“Airbus has been consistent throughout these last five years (at) meeting their delivery targets,” Bastian said.

Delta does not operate any Boeing 737 Max jets, the plane that was grounded worldwide after two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, and which suffered the panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines flight this year. However, the Atlanta-based airline has ordered a new, larger version of the Max that still hasn’t been approved by regulators. Bastian said Delta will be happy to use the Max 10 when they arrive.

While Delta has largely dodged headaches caused by Boeing, it faces other obstacles in handling this summer’s crowds.

Delta is lobbying the federal government to again allow it to operate fewer flights into the New York City area. Otherwise, Delta could lose valuable takeoff and landing slots.

The Federal Aviation Administration granted a similar request last summer and even extended it until late October . The FAA said the relief helped airlines reduce canceled flights at the region’s busy three main airports by 40%.

Peter Carter, an executive vice president who oversees government affairs, said Delta and other airlines need another waiver permitting fewer flights this summer because the FAA still doesn’t have enough air traffic controllers.

“Absent the waiver, I think we would have, as an industry, some real challenges in New York,” Carter said.

Airlines for America, a trade group of the major U.S. carriers, is also pushing for a waiver from rules on minimum flights in New York. The FAA said it would review the request.

Delta customers will see another change — a new system for boarding planes . Instead of boarding by groups with names such as Diamond Medallions, Delta Premium Select and Sky Priority, passengers will board in groups numbered one through eight. The airline says it will be less confusing.

“When you have a number and you’re standing in line, we are all trained to know when it’s our turn,” Bastian said.

The change won’t alter the pecking order of when each type of customer gets to board. Those with the cheapest tickets, Basic Economy, will still board last.

Delta’s first-quarter profit follows a $363 million loss a year ago, when the results were weighed down by spending on a new labor contract with pilots.

“We expect Delta to be one of the few airlines to report a profit in the March quarter,” TD Cowen analyst Helane Becker said even before Delta’s results were released.

Delta said that excluding special items, it earned 45 cents per share. Analysts were expecting 36 cents per share, according to a FactSet survey.

The airline forecast second-quarter earnings of $2.20 to $2.50 per share. The Wall Street consensus was $2.22 per share. The company stood by its forecast of full-year earnings between $6 and $7 per share.

First-quarter revenue rose 8%, to $13.75 billion. Putting Delta’s Pennsylvania refinery aside, operating revenue was slightly more than analysts predicted. The airline said second-quarter revenue will be 5% to 7% higher than a year ago.

The airline reported that large corporate customers — who were slower than leisure travelers to resume flying after the coronavirus pandemic — are spending more on travel, including firms in technology and financial services.

Delta has boosted profit by focusing more on premium passengers who pay the highest fares, and raking in money from a credit-card partnership with American Express.

Costs could rise too, however. Jet fuel is higher than it was a year ago, following a run-up in oil prices, and Delta is spending more on aircraft maintenance this year.

Shares of Delta Air Lines Inc. fell 2.3% by the end of regular trading Wednesday.

Delta expects summer travel demand to produce record second-quarter revenue

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Delta Air Lines posts a narrow Q1 profit and says travel demand remains strong despite flight scares

FILE - A Delta Air Lines plane lands at Logan International Airport, Jan. 26, 2023, in Boston. Delta reports earnings on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File)

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Delta Air Lines eked out a narrow first-quarter profit and said Wednesday that demand for travel is strong heading into the summer vacation season, with travelers seemingly unfazed by recent incidents in the industry that ranged from a panel blowing off a jetliner in flight to a tire falling off another plane during takeoff.

Delta reported the highest revenue for any first quarter in its history and a $37 million profit. It expects record-breaking revenue in the current quarter as well. The airline said that second-quarter earnings will likely beat Wall Street expectations.

CEO Ed Bastian said Delta’s best 11 days ever for ticket sales occurred during the early weeks of 2024.

If travelers are worried about a spate of problem flights and increased scrutiny of plane maker Boeing , “I haven’t seen it,” Bastian said in an interview. “I only look at my numbers. Demand is the healthiest I’ve ever seen.”

A slight majority of Delta’s fleet of more than 950 planes are Boeing models, but in recent years it has bought primarily from Airbus , including a January order for 20 big Airbus A350s. As a result, Delta will avoid the dilemma facing rivals United Airlines and American Airlines, which can’t get all the Boeing planes they ordered. United is even asking pilots to take unpaid time off in May because of a plane shortage.

“Airbus has been consistent throughout these last five years (at) meeting their delivery targets,” Bastian said.

Delta does not operate any Boeing 737 Max jets, the plane that was grounded worldwide after two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, and which suffered the panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines flight this year. However, the Atlanta-based airline has ordered a new, larger version of the Max that still hasn’t been approved by regulators. Bastian said Delta will be happy to use the Max 10 when they arrive.

While Delta has largely dodged headaches caused by Boeing, it faces other obstacles in handling this summer’s crowds.

Delta is lobbying the federal government to again allow it to operate fewer flights into the New York City area. Otherwise, Delta could lose valuable takeoff and landing slots.

The Federal Aviation Administration granted a similar request last summer and even extended it until late October . The FAA said the relief helped airlines reduce canceled flights at the region’s busy three main airports by 40%.

Peter Carter, an executive vice president who oversees government affairs, said Delta and other airlines need another waiver permitting fewer flights this summer because the FAA still doesn’t have enough air traffic controllers.

“Absent the waiver, I think we would have, as an industry, some real challenges in New York,” Carter said.

Airlines for America, a trade group of the major U.S. carriers, is also pushing for a waiver from rules on minimum flights in New York. The FAA said it would review the request.

Delta customers will see another change — a new system for boarding planes . Instead of boarding by groups with names such as Diamond Medallions, Delta Premium Select and Sky Priority, passengers will board in groups numbered one through eight. The airline says it will be less confusing.

“When you have a number and you’re standing in line, we are all trained to know when it’s our turn,” Bastian said.

The change won’t alter the pecking order of when each type of customer gets to board. Those with the cheapest tickets, Basic Economy, will still board last.

Delta’s first-quarter profit follows a $363 million loss a year ago, when the results were weighed down by spending on a new labor contract with pilots.

“We expect Delta to be one of the few airlines to report a profit in the March quarter,” TD Cowen analyst Helane Becker said even before Delta’s results were released.

Delta said that excluding special items, it earned 45 cents per share. Analysts were expecting 36 cents per share, according to a FactSet survey.

The airline forecast second-quarter earnings of $2.20 to $2.50 per share. The Wall Street consensus was $2.22 per share. The company stood by its forecast of full-year earnings between $6 and $7 per share.

First-quarter revenue rose 8%, to $13.75 billion. Putting Delta’s Pennsylvania refinery aside, operating revenue was slightly more than analysts predicted. The airline said second-quarter revenue will be 5% to 7% higher than a year ago.

The airline reported that large corporate customers — who were slower than leisure travelers to resume flying after the coronavirus pandemic — are spending more on travel, including firms in technology and financial services.

Delta has boosted profit by focusing more on premium passengers who pay the highest fares, and raking in money from a credit-card partnership with American Express.

Costs could rise too, however. Jet fuel is higher than it was a year ago, following a run-up in oil prices, and Delta is spending more on aircraft maintenance this year.

Shares of Delta Air Lines Inc. fell 2.3% by the end of regular trading Wednesday.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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