Table of Contents
If you’re someone that loves to go camping but hates sitting in a freezing cold tent, then using a heater is an absolute essential.
Here we look at the best options for those who love camping but can’t stand to be too cold.
Camping isn’t as comfortable as staying indoors, and once night falls, it’s always hard trying to fight against the cold.
Luckily, there are a lot of different products on the market that can help you to stay warm in your tent when camping.
In this article, we will look at five different options for portable heaters and hopefully give you some inspiration to take back home with you.
1. Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater
The Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater is the best tent heater for camping because it can heat up to 225 square feet with 4,000 – 9,000 BTUs! It has an auto shut-off and will turn itself off if you fall asleep or there are low levels of oxygen detected so that accidents don’t happen as they used to on older models.
It also has a heat lock system and works great for use in garages, workshops, or tents.
Portable
The portable heater is a must-have for any home that’s constantly on the move. With its swivel-out fuel connection, you can pack up and take this essential item with ease while preventing damage in transport. A huge bonus when things are tight at hope within your destination housing availability!
Adjustable Heat Settings
The versatility of this heater is that it can heat 4,000 or 9,000 BTU/hour to accommodate your needs. With adjustable settings, you are able to easily adapt the temperature in any space needed for various situations without sacrificing comfort.
Heating Area
This heater by Mr. Heater not only has a large heating surface, but its distribution system also helps to give off radiant heat and distribute it more efficiently across your room’s size. With the amount of power you get for less money than other models on today’s market- this one is worth checking out!
- PORTABLE HEATER: Portable propane heater designed for emergency heat, tents, campers, job sites, porches, decks, garages, tailgates, barns, sheds, ice fishing, hunting blinds, and more
- HEAT SPACE: Perfect for heating enclosed spaces up to 225 square feet
- PROPANE GAS: For use with propane gas; Runs off a 1-pound cylinder of propane and can connect directly to a 20 pound cylinder with optional hose and filter
- FEATURES: Includes Piezo igniter, Accidental tip-over safety shut-off, swivel regulator and fold-down handle, and hi and low heat settings
- SPECIFICATIONS: 4,000 or 9,000 BTU per hour; Run time (max BTU): 3 hours; Run time (min BTU): 6 hours; Heating technology type: Radiant; Power type: Propane; Indoor safe: Yes; Fuel consumption/burn rate (Gal/Hr): 4,000 BTU = 0.044 gal/hr, at 9,000 BTU = 0.099 gal/hr; Dimensions (L x W x H): 14.25 x 9 x 15 inches; Weight: 10.6 pounds
More: 5 Best Headlamps To Buy
2. Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane
A portable outdoor propane heater is a lifesaver when camping. Sure, you can always get cozy inside your tent or cabin, but what about those colder nights? A good quality unit will keep the chill away and make sure that even if there’s snow outside with its superior warmth output capacity! This is a great choice for those who love to take the benefits of camping with them, even if it’s chilly outside.
This portable outdoor heater by Texsport provides all of that and more. While it doesn’t have an impressive amount of power, the unit has enough versatility for any situation you might find yourself in need of heat!
Design
With this heater, you can control the temperature of your tent to prevent overheating, instead of blasting heat like other headless heating systems out there that might be too much for some people’s tents and sleeping bags. This one has a more adjustable range, so it’s not as risky! It also features an innovative design with metal rods on each side which direct airflow towards where needed by directing airflow in different directions depending upon preference or target area desired for higher output.
Heating Power
The next time you need a tent heater, consider this one. It puts out 3,000 BTU of heat and is perfect for those who don’t need their temperatures raised very high or those that want an affordable alternative to larger models with higher output capacities, such as the 5-8k range ones on offer from some brands
A low 3,000 BTU rating can put off potential buyers, but there’s more than meets the eye. This little model has enough power to heat up small spaces and tents but is still relatively portable for those who want to take their heater with them!
Application
The best part about this heater is that you can use it in so many different ways. You might think of all the times when the hunting season got cold and how handy this thing would have been for warmth during those chilly days!
A hand-warming station would be a great way to keep your hands warm while out camping. It can either serve as an extra place for people who need it, or you could set one up near the fire pit, so everyone has somewhere safe where they know it’s always there if needed!
Keeping a camping heater on hand is never an apology for camping cold. Keeping yourself warm in your tent can be difficult, especially if it’s winter and you’re not used to wearing layers upon layers of clothes just so everything stays dry! But with this reliable little machine by our side, we’ll always have hot water at the ready when needed – without having anything else weighing us down or slowing us down while out exploring nature nearby.
More: Best Camping Gear for a Weekend Outdoors
3. Mr. Heater F232017 MH9BXRV Buddy Grey Indoor-Safe Portable RV Radiant Heater
If you are looking for the perfect space heater, Mr. Heater F232017 MH9BXRV Buddy is your best bet! It has all of the features necessary to keep any room cozy and warm – from safety measures with multiple settings or an automatic thermostat-controls that make sure it won’t overheat when left on its own while bringing in cold air during winter months; easy portability thanks to a lightweight design weighing only 18 pounds (8kg) before Appalachian Trail adventures at high elevations or in cold winter months and a sleek and stylish design you’ll want to display around the tent.
Design
Mr. Heater F232017 MH9BXRV Buddy is a portable radiant heater that provides the maximum output and features variable heat controls to meet the temperature requirements of the surroundings. The unit is equipped with a built-in handle and casters for easy portability.
Heating Power
For this price, you’ll get a lot out of your heater. The Mr. Heater F232017 MH9BXRV Buddy can provide up to 9,000 BTU of heating power, so it’s perfect for most situations! You might think that this is not enough to heat your tent, but it really is.
Application
What’s not to love about this space heater? It’s small, portable, and has a handy handle for carrying. While some other heaters may be bulky or have cords that need wrapping up – you don’t have any of those problems here! This product comes with an easy-to-carry design that doesn’t use electricity but instead uses natural gas as fuel, so no plugs are needed at all.
- 4,000- to 9,000-BTU radiant heater for spaces up to 225 square feet. Approved for indoor/outdoor use; clean-burning; nearly 100-percent efficient
- When operating the heater at altitudes over 7,000 FT above sea level the heater may shut off.
- Auto shut-off if tipped over, if pilot light goes out, or if detects low oxygen levels
- Fold-down handle; swivel-out regulator; connects to propane tank (not included).Fuel Type:Propane
- THE USE OF UN-AUTHORIZED ACCESSORIES/ATTACHMENTS WITH THIS HEATER ARE EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED, MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY, AND WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
More: Top 5 Best Camping Stoves
4. Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater
The Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater provides a portable and durable way to stay warm during outdoor activities such as fishing or golfing. The stainless steel burner offers up 3000 BTUs with an easy-to-control regulator on/off valve, which can be adjusted from 1000 – 3000 watts! In addition, this unit also comes equipped with a cup holder for a 16-ounce propane fuel bottle included in purchase; there is even space inside its base where you could store gloves if desired too!. And don’t worry about feeling cold while using your new heater. It features auto shut-off valves that stop supplying flame via safety grids built into the burner plate.
Heating Power
With a power output of 3000 BTU, this heater will keep you cozy in your tent—even during the winter. Though it doesn’t have high ratings when it comes to temperature and energy efficiency, what else do YOU need from one?
It might not be able to get too hot or cold, but even so, it’s perfect for keeping things at just the right levels wherever life takes us!!
Portability
Portable heaters are a must for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is important to make sure you have the right portable heater so that your space isn’t sacrificed, which means getting one with plenty of durability or versatility in mind! This particular model doesn’t take up much room at all. It would fit anywhere, whether it’s hiking with your backpack or car-based camping gear – even if someone’s looking specifically for something big like an oven chimney (we know some people who love using these!). You can easily transport this heater wherever you go, which makes it perfect for tailgating or any other outdoor event!
Safety and Efficiency
The Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater not only includes an auto shut-off valve but also comes equipped with a safety grid to ensure safe and efficient use.
To keep your heater stable and standing up, the bottom has a fold-out design! This is an important feature because it eliminates one of the most common safety issues with heaters- When they fall over in brush or inside tents.
- Steel reflector with safety grid is present
More: Top 5 Best Hiking Backpacks in 2021
5. Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy
A small tent heater can make all the difference when camping at night, especially during winter. One of our favorites for keeping things warm and cozy in a cold space is Mr. Heater’s Little Buddy propane product!
This small tent heater sits on top 1 lb tank that lights with just one push from its sleek design buttons – making this perfect not only outdoors but indoors as well. The safety features include an automatic shut-off system, pilot light assembly for ease of use and safe operation, as well as a tip-over switch design.
Heating Power
Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy may not have the power of larger heaters, but it fills its role perfectly as long as you are only looking for a little warmth in your tent or at camp. At 3000 BTU, though it’s no match for some of its counterparts, it is small and packs a punch that will keep warm for hours during chilly nights!
Simple but effective!
If you’re looking for a heater that has all the essential features but also takes simplicity to new heights in its design with easy-to-understand controls and propane loading/unloading capabilities, this could be it.
It uses just one cylinder of gas which burns clean without odor, so replacing empty cylinders couldn’t be easier!
Versatile
This heater is perfect for all sorts of adventures, no matter what the occasion might be. Whether you need heat in your tent or shack – whether it’s wintertime and freezing outside- this little device will keep things warm when others can’t!
This heater is so small, you could put it in your backpack and take it with you anywhere! It measures 11 inches long by 6 pounds. It can fit in any backpack, tent, or small space – making it perfect for tent heaters and small spaces!
- Indoor-safe portable propane heater for rooms up to 95 square feet. THIS UNIT IS NOT INTENDED FOR GOLF CART USE OR FOR MOTORIZED VEHICLES.
- Continuous odor-free, 45-degree heating angle. Maximum Elevation (Ft) 7000 Feet. Automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS). Perfect solution for heating small enclosed spaces like tents up to 95 square feet
- Simple on/off buttons; uses 1-pound disposable propane cylinder (not included). Run time at minimum btu and maximum btu is 5.6 hours. Do not operate heater in any moving vehicle. This heater requires a vent area of 4 square inches minimum for adequate ventilation during operation
- Low-oxygen sensor and accidental tip-over switch with auto shut-off for safety.THE USE OF UN-AUTHORIZED ACCESSORIES/ATTACHMENTS WITH THIS HEATER ARE EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED, MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY, AND WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
- Recommended for emergency heat, tents, campers, workshops, job sites, porches, patios, decks, garages, storage buildings, picnics, tailgate parties, construction trailers, sporting events, barns, sheds, hunting blinds, shelters and ice fishing shanties
More: 5 Best Rated Hunting Knife Sets Available On Amazon
Tent heaters for camping – Buying Guide
The three features that make a top-notch portable heater are its size, fuel source, and noise level. While these traits may be important in their own right, they’re not what set these units apart from the rest of the pack!
Size
One of the main differences between tent heaters for camping – and tent heaters for everyday use – is their size. Since these units are designed to be moved from place to place, they come in various lengths, weights, and styles that make them optimal not only for one person but also for multiple people!
The most important thing to consider when investing in a tent heater is its size relative to your tent space. In order to ensure enough room exists inside your tent, look for heaters with small footprints. An ideal tent heater won’t take up valuable space inside your tent and will be easy to pick up and move around if need be!
Fuel source
The tent heaters that use electricity can be plugged into a wall outlet and won’t require any additional fuel. Portable tent heaters that utilize gas require the use of fuel cylinders to work properly. Different tent heaters can run on gasoline, kerosene, or propane.
Propane tent heaters are by far the most popular tent heaters for camping. Not only are they easy to refuel, but they’re also versatile and suitable for different types of tent spaces!
Noise Level
If you’re someone who prefers a serene tent space free from outside distractions, then you’ll want to look for a tent heater that runs quietly. Electric tent heaters tend to be much quieter than their gas counterparts since they don’t have an open flame running through them!
On the other hand, it’s important to note that tent heaters that run on propane can often be louder than other tent heaters. The constant sound of a propane tent heater is something to consider if you’re not a fan of excessive noise when camping!
Weight
If you’re looking to carry around your tent heater in a backpack, look for something light and small. Even if you aren’t carrying it with you during the day, most tent heaters are heavy enough to make them inconvenient to travel with – unless they were explicitly designed for tent use!
Heat Output
The best tent heaters offer even, reliable heat with few safety concerns to worry about. Opt for tent heaters that are designed with safety features in mind and have a low risk of overheating. Since tent spaces are small, you’ll want something that puts out enough warmth without being too hot!
Safety Features
The best tent heaters for camping aren’t necessarily the ones that throw off the most heat! You’ll want a tent heater that turns itself off when tipped over or if it begins to feel too hot. This is especially important since tent spaces are small, and you might forget about your tent heater running!
Ease of Use
As far as tent heaters go, electric tent heaters tend to be easier to use than their gas counterparts. Electric tent heaters require less work on your end, while propane tent heaters often need to be refueled every few hours.
Gas-powered tent heaters shouldn’t run out at inconvenient times. They can even be used in conjunction with a generator for an extended period of time!
For tent heaters that run on fuel cylinders, it’s important to look for ones that are affordable and easy to use. You’ll get the best tent heater deals when you purchase propane tent heaters in bulk so you can store them away for your next camping trip.
Price
Since tent heaters are small appliances that need fuel to work, they tend to be priced accordingly. That being said, electric tent heaters tend to be expensive due to their size. Even though they cost less upfront, the long-term price usually won’t save you money!
More: Mistakes That Lower Your Chance of Survival in the Wilderness
Choosing The Right Tent Heater
When choosing the best tent heater, it is best to consider what you need and where you plan to use it.
Suppose this is going to be used within your tent. In that case, portability and ease of storage become more important than heat output or having advanced features like thermostats or timers. On the other hand, portability isn’t a priority if this is just meant to sit in one place. You can go for a larger tent heater that can output more heat.
Most tent heaters on this list are suitable for both camping or household use. Still, some of them are specifically designed for one or the other. It is important to consider where you will be using it most often before making a purchase! Always pick a tent heater over a space heater when in doubt since they’re made to maintain optimal tent conditions.
An Important Note About Tents
When tent camping, it is important to understand the challenges you’ll be facing! While tent heaters are great for keeping warm, other factors distribute heat throughout your tent. If your tent isn’t properly ventilated, then you could be fighting a losing battle trying to keep your tent warm with just a tent heater!
It’s important to look for tents with windows and doors on opposite sides so that air can move around freely. This will ensure everyone has enough oxygen while still staying warm. On top of tent heating, ensure proper ventilation is always maintained to stay nice and cozy through the night!
Suppose you want an easy-to-maintain warmth without any tent ventilation required. In that case, you can always look at tent heating pads instead! These are essentially small tent heaters that are made to stay underneath your tent’s sleeping area. They provide instant warmth right where you need it most without needing to worry about vents or windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tent heaters cause fires?
Most tent heaters feature safety features that prevent them from overheating or catching fire. However, tent heaters should always be kept at least 20 inches away from anything flammable. This is especially true if you’re using a tent heater with fuel instead of electricity!
Is it safe to use a heater in a tent?
The short answer is yes – tent heaters are designed to be safe so long as you follow the safety tips provided with your tent heater! Just always make sure there’s proper ventilation in your tent, and don’t let it get too close to anything flammable.
What temperature do you need a tent heater at?
Many tent heaters on this list can reach up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, which is more than enough to warm up most tents. Just make sure that everyone in your tent knows how far away the tent heater should be kept, and you’ll be fine!
More: 25 Awesome Holiday Gifts for Travelers
Can tent heaters be used in cabins and RVs?
Yes, tent heaters will work well in cabins and RVs. You’ll get the best tent heater deals when you buy propane tent heaters in bulk so you can store them away for your next camping trip! Just remember to use tent heaters with electricity instead of fuel if it’s going to be plugged into an outlet or generator. Tent heaters that run on fuel are meant for use within tents only.
Where should a heater be placed in a tent?
The tent heater should always be placed on the floor (and not under your tent) to ensure everyone in your tent is safe. If you place it close to the ceiling, then this creates a fire hazard that could result in injury or death!
What are tent heaters made of?
Tent heaters are typically made of metal and silicone, which is one of the reasons they’re so popular for camping! They’ll last for years even with heavy use, which means you can enjoy endless tent camping trips without worrying about needing to replace your tent heater.
How long do tent heaters stay warm?
Most tent heaters will stay at optimal warmth for several hours after they’ve been turned off. However, tent heaters with fuel will only stay warm for a couple of hours at most.
Can a tent heater keep your tent warm all night long?
Tent heaters can certainly keep a tent warm all night long. Still, they do require some more preparation than regular electric space heaters. If you want a tent that stays at optimal warmth, then you need to follow proper ventilation techniques – otherwise, your tent will get too hot and stuff!
Is it safe to use a propane heater in a tent?
As long as you follow all safety protocols for tent heaters, propane tent heaters are safe to use in tents. Just always make sure your tent heater is kept at least 20 inches away from anything flammable, and you’ll be fine!
Do tent heaters give off carbon monoxide?
Most tent heaters have a carbon monoxide sensor, so they never give off carbon monoxide. However, not all tent heaters with fuel will feature this sensor. It might be worth investing in an electric tent heater instead if you’re concerned about carbon monoxide poisoning!
How long do tent heaters last?
Heating pads and tent heaters both tend to last for several years, while propane tent heaters may only last for a couple of years, depending on how often you use them. They are both worth the investment, though – tent heaters will last for several camping seasons so that you can enjoy your next tent camping trip!
How do you maintain a propane heater?
When using a propane tent heater, always ensure that the propane tank is full and in good condition. You’ll need to replace the tent heater fuel canister when it begins to run low (most tent heaters will come with a replacement canister when you buy them).
If your tent heater has a carbon monoxide sensor, then you’ll need to replace that occasionally as well!
Conclusion
Camping is one of the most enjoyable activities you can take part in, but it’s also difficult without proper equipment. Tent heaters are necessary for any camper who wants to stay warm at night and enjoy their time in nature.
The tent heaters that we’ve listed here are the most popular tent heaters on the market today – they’ll keep your tent warm and cozy, no matter how cold it gets out. This means you can enjoy a tent camping trip during any weather season!
