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What do you think will be better than staying warm after a long day going about in cold weather? Well, today, it is easy to experience this amazing feeling, even on a hike, when warmth flows through the body while it is actually snowing or raining outside. A good tent heater is all you need to offer comfortable camping.
What is more, heaters are very important, not only for convenience but also for your health state. Be rest assured that your body will not be grateful for the influence of the wind, moisture, as well as dampness.
Now, if you are wondering if these heaters for tents are safe, you are in luck—we have a few answers for you. Let us grab an intensed look at some of the best tent heaters so you can begin planning that winter trip to Utah you have wanted to take for years, or probably any other location!
If you are considering going camping in cold weather, below are the best tent heaters you can find on the market. These tents are safe and they are being used by campers across the country, so you can trust that they are tent-camping friendly.
1. Bullet Shaker Camping Mini Heater
Just like the Honoson mini tent heater is this Bullet Shaker mini heater. It is also made of stainless steel, and it makes use of a camp stove to radiate heat. The heat also extends through the sides instead of going straight into the air for 360 degree warmth.
Tent Camping Features: Measuring 6.18 inches by 4.92 inches by 4.84 inches as well as weighing less than a pound, this very mini tent heater will flexibly fit in your backpack even without taking much space or weighing you down. Since it is stainless steel, it is also durable and will withstand numerous camping trips.
Power Source: Camping stove
2. Zodi Outback Gear X-40
Do you always prefer to camp in large groups? Okay, the Zodi Outback Gear X-40 is definitely what you are looking for.
It has one of the most increased efficiencies and can easily put out up to 40,000 BTUs.
The heating technology means that the device heats the air outside and pumps it into the canopy through a different tube. This outside air heating method lowers the risk of carbon monoxide emissions and boosts ventilation.
The appliance works best with a full-sized propane gallon and a 12-volt power source for the fan.
Of course, the device is quite expensive because it can substitute several efficient devices.
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3. Stanley Electric Heater
Stanley is a superb example of electric heating devices. It is compact and straightforward to transfer and ease of use. The weight is only 3,8 pounds. Regardless, the small size does not affect the efficiency because the device supplies up to 5,100 BTUs.
Moreover, stable structure makes the appliance resistant to any climate conditions, so you can use it outdoors.
The device requires electricity, but it frees you from concerns about gas emissions. Nevertheless, although there is no fire, take combustible materials away from the device.
4. Honeywell 360-Degree Electric Tent Heater
The model puts friendly air in all directions. The heated area is up to 443 square feet, so you can heat tents of various sizes.
It is a wonderful snall device, as it only weighs three pounds. The device provides up to 1,232 BTUs and functions at 1,500 Watts.
A tipping-over switch is tere as a safety feature.
5. Lasko MyHeat Heater
This appliance is a nice option for camping during warm seasons, as its efficiency is not enough for cold weather. It supplies only 682 BTUs.
However, its small weight makes it perfect for backpacking and small tents. Moreover, the device does not need a propane tank, which means you do not need to deal with a flame.
Lasko uses only 200 watts and turns off if it gets too hot.
6. Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater
The Texsport Portable Outdoor is an excellent option for those who are seking for a small and lightweight heater. Therefore, its weight is one of the smallest on the market—only one pound. Nevertheless, regardless of its small size, the heating device provides more than 2,800 BTUs.
The appliance runs on a typical 16-ounce propane tank. The reliability of the device is guaranteed by the material it is made of. Stainless steel is used for the burner a well as aluminum for the dish.
Take into consideration that this model does not have a tipping turnoff feature, though it is still very easy to tip over. Therefore, it is highly advised not to use the device inside a tent.
7. Heater Tank Topper
If you are in need of a very powerful heater, this model is a nice choice. Thus, Tank Topper heater puts out from 29,000 to 45,000 BTUs. It is possible to adjust the intensity by making use of the adjustment knob.
What more do you expect? The warm air is provided in all directions, which makes it easy to use the device in bigger tents. It is also a nice option for outdoor activities like ice fishing or construction projects.
Such features as a tipping-over switch as well as low oxygen sensor are available.
8. APG Portable Butane Heater
This is a great backpacking option due to its small weight (only 11 ounces, or 320 grams). Though it is still efficient and gives you 45,000 BTUs,
Since the device is weightless, it can be bent and dinged up, so you should be extra careful.
This device does not have a good safety system either.
9. Heater Buddy Indoor-Safe Portable RV Radiant Heater
Available in gray or red, this mr. heater little buddy portable RV radiant heater is the right heater that gives out 4,000 BTUs ut to 9,000 BTUs, shading more than 200 square feet. It connects straight to a 1-pound propane tanks. Only weighing about 9 pounds, this heater measures 8.3 inches by 13.4 inches by 15 inches.
Those who think that Little Buddy is too small for them will definitely be okay with this model. It is also lightweight though more systematic. On the market, Mr. Heater Buddy is named a "universal device", which you should pick when you do not really know what you are in need of.
The weight is about 10 pounds. Systematically depends on the settings. This device has two settings: the low one puts out 4,000 BTUs, and the high one puts out 9,000 BTUs.
The provided heat is good enough for the tent, which has an area of up to 225 square feet. When the device runs on the high setting, it can be effective for three hours, and when it runs on the low setting, it can work for at least for six hours.
Mr. Heater Buddy has a reduced oxygen sensor, which makes it kind of impossible to use the device at heights above 7,000 feet.
Tent Camping Features: This option is duly approved for indoor and outdoor use and it gives clean burning for nearly 100 percent efficiency. Safety features have to do with an automatic shut-down if tipped over, if the pilot light runs out, or if it detects low oxygen levels.
Power Source: Propane
10. Martin Portable Gas Catalytic Heater
Martin offers another portable, lightweight device that positively impacts fuel source efficiency. Its exceptional feature is the use of catalytic technology, which converts more propane into heat than most flame models without the use of an open flame.
This device can run continuously for 7 hours on a standard 16 oz tank. The Martin Portable Gas Catalyst Unit produces 3,000 BTU. Of course, it's not enough to heat a large tent, but it's definitely suitable for a one or two-person tent.
Security is one of the most important features of a device. It will automatically switch off when the fire goes out, preventing the gas inside the bottle from escaping. Additionally, the Martin device has a toggle switch.
11. Campy Gear Chubby 2-in-1 Portable Propane Heater and Stove
Another two in one tent heater, like the SEEYANG choice, is this propane heater by Campy Gear and is indeed a great option. It is available in four different colours, it puts out 9,000 BTUs, 13,000 BTUs, or even 18,000 BTUs, relying on the model. It comes in a little carrying case and only weighs about 2 pounds.
Tent Camping Features: You can preserve larger space with this tent heater that works as a stove a well as a heater. You can wake up anytime and warm up while heating water for a cup of coffee. The 360 degree heating radius will make you warm in little or no time.
Power Source: Propane
12. Camco Olympian Wave
All Olympian Wave, this heating devices run on petroleum gas. Olympian Wave heaters are available in three sizes. Of course, size impacts efficiency. Thus, some devices put out 3,000, 6,000, and 8,000 BTUs. As a result of the variety of sizes, it is easy to find an appliance for different tents with a space of 100 to 230 square feet.
A beneficial feature of the device is the use of catalytic technology, which increases the durability.
Olympian Wave does not offer a typical spot to screw in a gas canister. So, it is ideal to hook up to the gas line, which is convenient for RVs. However, we won't say it is not the best option for a standard tent.
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13. Tooluxe Butane Heater
The Tooluxe Butane appliance can easily warm the space very fast due to the burner made of ceramic. It puts out up to 5,000 BTUs.
To use the Tooluxe, you need to have a set-aside adapter, which is needed by a small butane canister that is being used on camping stoves. If you check well the device has a pressure sensor that turns off the heating working technique when the pressure is changed.
14. Dura Heater Kerosene Tent Heater
It is somehow one of the heaviest models, as its weight is 27 pounds and its height is 27 inches. So, it is indeed not one of the small samples.
It works very well on the energy of the kerosene, and it puts out 23,800 BTUs. The appliance runs without a break of any kind for up to 12 hours.
However, consider that kerosene is less available than other fuels. In addition to that, it produces vapors that are harmful. So, the device could be recommended mainly for use inside a tent or any indoor activity.
15. Sengoku HeatMate
One more kerosene heater is on the list. But as a result of the use of this fuel, the device can only put out up to 10,000 BTUs. It can as well warm 380 square feet due to the use of a 1,2-gallon (4,5-liter) kerosene tank.
However, consider that Sengoku HeatMate is heavy and it is large: the weight is about 20 pounds, and the height is up to two feet.
Its safety features include protection grills as well as a tipping-over shut-off switch.
Discrete settings normally for propane devices are replaced with an adjustable knob.
However, because of toxic kerosene vapors from the device, it is better to avoid using it inside a tent.
16. Honoson Mini Camping Heater
Another small option for tent campers who do not want to lug around ten pounds is this mini heater by Honoson. It measures 5.78 inches by 4.72 inches by 4.72 inches and weighs approximately two pounds.
Tent Camping Features: The two small heaters are made of stainless steel and flexibly fit on a camping stove. So you do not have to bring along a propane cylinder. You will not get as much heat from this option, but you will also have an easier time bringing it along.
Power Source: Camping stove
17. Heater Little Buddy 3800 BTU (Indoor Safe Propane Heater)
Mr. Heater is a trustworthy brand that offers a portable tool to heat camping tents. Little Buddy is a model working on a 16-ounce propane tank. The item can work for a good five hours without breaking on high heat using only one propane tank.
Another Mr. Heater product that is much thinner than the first option is this Little Buddy heater, which puts out enough heat to reach about 95 square feet. The 45-degree heating angle blows heat into the air rather than straight out.
The weight of this device is just 6 pounds. Since it is a portable tent heater, it is not so big, however, it is good enough. However, Little Buddy gives out 3800 BTUs of heat, which is good for the space up to 95 square feet. Additionally, it is possible to purchase additional hoses to connect the device to a bigger tank.
Mr. Heater Little Body is great when it comes to indoor use that's because it does not give a lot of carbon monoxide emissions.
Bear in mind that the device is not that good for work at high altitus des (above 7,000 feet) because of a low oxygen sensor.
Tent Camping Features: This is a great one for backpackers because of its size. You can smoothly attach it to your pack, and it weighs only 5 pounds. Just like other tent heaters, this very one has the security features of a low-oxygen sensor and an incidental tip-over switch with auto shut-off.
Power Source: Propane
18. SEEYANG Tent Propane Heater and Cooker Combo
A totally different “look” than the earlier two heaters, the SEEYANG tent propane heater looks much like a lantern for a camping atmosphere.
It is available in two different colors. This heater puts out 13,000 BTUs and it offers 360-degree radiant heating. SEEYANG comes with a 5-foot rubber hose to attach to a 20-pound propane tank.
Tent Camping Features: Unlike other tent heaters you have seen, this option gives room for cooking and warmth. The 2-in-1 design means you do not have to carry a camp stove and a portable heater. The top plate lets you to cook a pot of soup, also the switch makes it easy for you to go from cooking to heating.
Power Source: Propane
19. BLUU Propane Heater
You can have this BLUU propane heater in three colors and puts out 10,000 BTUs or up to 20,000 BTUs, relying on which model you purchase. It can heat up a 300-square-foot space, weighs about 10 pounds, and measures 16.6 inches by 16 inches by 9.8 inches.
Power Source: Propane
20. Heater Big Buddy
The traditional brand Mr. Heater gives one more sample, –Big Buddy, which can guarantee heating a large space up to 400 square feet.
There are three ways, which put out from 4,000 to 8,000 BTUs. Think that such efficiency is obtainable in spite of the middle weight, which is just 12 pounds.
Big Buddy has a great protection system, which has a tipping-over shutoff as well as a low oxygen sensor.
Believe that the device is not appropriate for camping at high altitudes (exceeding 7,000 feet). Pursue peace of mind while camping.
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What to Consider When Picking the Best Tent Heater
In addition to energy options, consider the following factors and features when purchasing a tent heater:
1. Height and weight
Camping trips can require a lot of equipment, so a tent heater that is too large or heavy can be inconvenient. The same goes for short hikes and backpacking trips where you don't want to carry too much stuff. Portable tent heaters can weigh anywhere from as little as 1 pound to as much as 15 pounds or more.
The size of a tent heater usually depends on the amount of heat the device produces. Tents for 4 or more people need a heater the size of a garage or workshop. For one-person or two-person tents, a small heater such as a desk lamp can keep the tent warm enough.
2. Heating capacity
Manufacturers of tent heaters often specify a maximum area that the heater can effectively warm. Propane and butane models are scored by British Thermal Units (BTU), which measures heat output per hour.
Depending on the size of the tent, most campers are looking for gas heaters that produces between 2,500 and 5,000 BTU per hour. The heating output of electric heaters is measured in watts for wired products and in volts for battery-powered heaters.
The higher the wattage or voltage, the greater the heating output. Typical power ranges are around 750 to 1,500 watts, but voltage ranges are even narrower, ranging from 5 to 20 volts.
3. Runtime
Gas and battery-powered tent heaters have a little runtime that can affect their ability to provide constant warmth in cold weather.
The runtime of a gas tent heater guides to the amount of time it takes the heater to ignite through a full tank of propane or butane. Due to the irregular fuel tank sizes, the runtime of a gas tent heater varies widely from only one hour to 48 hours.
Cordless tent heaters are occasional because they do not have a very long usage time (one to four hours) before the battery needs to be recharged, which makes them an inadequate choice for heating a whole tent.
Nevertheless, smaller battery-powered heaters are reasonable to use as a personal heating device to keep your hands warm or provide a little additional heat at the camp table.
4. Noise Level
As a general practice, electric heaters operate more calmly than gas standards. Propane and butane heaters are made up of different moving parts to produce heat, which can make a loud humming sound while in use. Light sleepers may choose a less-powerful heater, which is usually more silent.
Some manufacturers show the decibel (dB) level of the heater so users can decide whether it will be too noisy.
For consideration, 40 dB is about as loud as a silent library, 60 dB is as loud as a normal conversation, and 90 dB is like having a big truck thundering past.
5. Safety
Tent heaters are a fire risk if placed near tent walls or other flammable surfaces or if they fall onto the tent base. To solve this issue, some tent heaters automatically shut off if the unit overheats or tips over. When buying a gas heater, pick a model that automatically shuts off if extra carbon monoxide is detected in the air.
Are Heaters for Tents a Best Way to Keep Warm?
Another item to bring when you go camping in cold weather is a heater. Tent heaters are completely safe if you use them correctly and buy the right type of heater for tent camping. I would like to purchase a heater suitable for indoor use.
The most dangerous thing about using a heater is carbon monoxide poisoning. This is why it is important to use indoor heating. Also look out for safety features like fall protection and hypoxia sensor shutoff.
Pros and Cons of Tent Heaters
The biggest advantage to bringing along a tent heater is to keep you warm. This extra heat will emit all through the tent and provide added warmth. However, you still want to go along with a sleeping pad, clothes made of artificial fabrics, as well as other items and gear to stay warm.
In difference, this is another piece of gear you have to carry. If you are backpacking, carrying a tent heater is not suitable. So you are limited to tent camping in areas where you can effortlessly transport a heater.
Reason People Go Cold Weather Camping in Tents
During the winter time, most campers pack up their gear and wait till spring to hit the trails again. Though not all. Some enjoy the isolation and beauty that winter brings. So, thankfully, there are no crowds.
It is a peaceful location to go camping in the cold weather. You can even feel like you are the sole person in a whole national park. This connection with nature is unlike any other moment of the year.
How Do You Keep Warm in Cold Weather Camping?
However, if you do head out with your camping gear in January, it is important you have many ways to stay warm. You do not just need a cozy, cold-weather sleeping bag.
You also want to bring enough food and water to rebuild your body. Pack layers of clothes that will keep you comfortable all through the day and night, and take a sleeping pad to go under your sleeping bag.
Your body loses heat in four ways: that is, in radiation, convection, evaporation, as well as conduction. You must get set to take care of yourself as you lose body heat. Change out of sweaty or watery clothes instantly.
Make sure to use merino wool, polyester, and polypropylene clothing, not cotton. Cotton will soak moisture and become drenched.
Do not sleep on the cold floor. Lay down a closed-cell matress sleeping pad to provide sufficient insulation.
You can as well include a hot, non-insulated, stainless-steel water bottle inside your sleeping bag to release heat all through the night. These are just a rare tips to keep warm while camping in freezing weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you still in doubt of anything, well, you can go through some of our readers questions which we believe can also be helpful to you.
Q1. What type of heater is safe to use in a tent?
You can use propane and electric heaters inside your tents safely any time you go camping. But, it is all heaters that are meant to be used in such an enclosed space.
To be sure you are not putting yourself at risk, you have to make sure the heater you want to use is labeled "indoor-safe" before you can make use of it inside your tent.
Q2. How do you heat a tent in absence of electricity?
You can find propane heaters that do not need any electricity to work. These type of heaters were some of the first camping heaters, in fact.
You can also buy a small generator you can take with you on camping journey which you can use to power your electric heaters or other small corded gadgets or appliances.
Q3. Are camping heaters worth buying?
Camping heaters are worth buying if you find yourself camping during times of the year when temperatures can begin to drop at night. It is not wise to maintain a camfire going all night, so a camping heater will aid keep you warm all night.
Q4. Do battery-powered heaters exist?
Battery-powered heaters for sure do exist and are a likely portable option for warmness on the go. Yet, these heaters are normally very small, usually no bigger than pocket-sized.
It is doubtful you will be able to find a larger battery-powered portable heater. It would be unusable to replace batteries in a larger heater.
Final Thoughts
Even though tent heaters are confirmed safe for indoor use, running them all through the night is never a good idea. You do not want to fall asleep while the heater is still in use.
This is why it is still imperative to also have a sleeping pad, a cold-weather sleeping bag, artificial clothes, as well as other items to keep you warm while resting. But it is a great addition to your camping kit, so you can enjoy camping all the time.