There’s nothing quite like spending a night in nature under the stars. Still, when temperatures drop, it can be challenging to get comfortable. A good tent heater can make all the difference, making your campsite feel downright cozy. As we daydream about hiking through blooming forests and fishing in lazy creeks, we plan our camping adventures for the warmer months ahead. But before you pack your tent and head out into the wilderness, don’t forget to bring a portable camping heater. Heaters can make all the difference when the mercury starts to drop at night. With such a wide variety of models available on the market, it’s easy to find one perfect for your needs. In this blog post, we’ll outline some of the best portable camping heaters on the market today.
Our team conducted in-depth research and consulted with outdoor enthusiasts to create this list of the best tent heaters on the market. In addition to our top picks, we’ve also included a comparison table and handy buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Recommendations
- Best Overall Tent Heater: Mr Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy
- Best For Backpacking: Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy
- Best For Outdoor: Texsport Sportsmate Heater
- Best With Stove: Campy Gear 2 in 1 Heater & Stove
- Best Of The Rest: Mr. Heater MH4B
- Best Design for One: Flame King Outdoor Heater
- Best Electric Camp heater: Honeywell HHF360V
What Are Camping Heaters Types
There are a few different types of camping heaters, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Here are a few of the most popular options:
Propane Heaters
Propane heaters are a popular choice for camping, as they’re relatively inexpensive and easy to use. However, they can be somewhat dangerous if not used properly and create a fair amount of noise. If you’re considering using a propane heater on your next camping trip, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Always make sure that the heater is placed on a level surface, away from any combustible materials.
- Never leave the heater unattended while it’s turned on, and be sure to turn it off before going to bed.
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy in case of an emergency.
- Be aware that propane heaters can be quite loud, so don’t use one if you’re trying to enjoy a quiet night in the woods.
With these tips in mind, you can safely enjoy the benefits of propane heaters on your next camping trip.
Electric Heaters
Electric heaters are becoming increasingly popular for camping, as they’re much safer than propane heaters and don’t create any noise. However, they tend to be more expensive than propane heaters, and you’ll need to have access to an electrical outlet to use them.
Another downside is that they can take up quite a bit of space since you’ll need to bring along the cords and extension cords. But if you’re looking for a safe and efficient way to heat your campsite, an electric heater is the way.
Battery Operated Heaters
Battery-operated heaters are a popular choice for many people because of their portability and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a way to keep your RV or camper warm on a cold night or need a portable heater for your workshop or garage, battery-operated heaters are a great option. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a battery-operated heater, however:
- Make sure to choose a model designed explicitly for batteries; some models of space heaters will not work with batteries.
- Be aware that battery-operated heaters typically do not put out as much heat as other types of space heaters; if you need a lot of heat, you may want to consider a different kind of heater.
- Remember that battery-operated heaters can be expensive; if you’re on a budget, you may want to look at other options.
Best Overall Tent Heater
1. Mr Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy
The Mr Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy is one of the most popular camping heaters on the market. It is lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for backpackers and campers alike. With the adjustable heat output, you can customize your heating output. In addition, the Mr Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy has an automatic shut-off feature if the unit tips over. We appreciate this feature as it is safe to use.
This is suitable for camping, outdoor and heating the tent. This produces enough heat even during the snowing condition. You can even use a bigger propane tank with an adapter kit if you are planning to camp for a few days and cannot refill. The problem with some of the other heaters is that they tend to get too hot, but with this one, you can adjust the heat output. There is also a protection function that will shut off the gas flow if it tips over.
This is a portable propane heater that you can use indoors. It’s powered by a 1-pound propane cylinder and can provide up to 5,200 BTUs of heat, making it perfect for small spaces. Additionally, this heater has multiple safety sensors in place to keep you safe while using it, including low oxygen and auto shut-off if tipped over. Overall, the Mr Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy is a reliable and efficient propane camping heater that can warm up spaces up to 240 square feet in size.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Tent safe heater
- Good fuel consumption
- Heat adjustability
- Low oxygen sensor
- Tip-over automatic shut-off
- Durable
Cons
- There is no high limit automatic shut off
Best For Backpacking
2. Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy
Mr. Heater’s F215100 MH4B Little Buddy Heater is a great choice for backpackers looking for a compact and lightweight option. This heater is very portable and does not take up much space. This heater is a good choice if you cannot take additional weight. Additionally, the instructions to operate the little buddy heater are self-explanatory and easy to follow. This propane gas heater is also very affordable and easily available. However, be aware that the base is not very wide, so it may be unstable on slippery surfaces.
This great little propane camping heater attaches to a one-pound cylinder and can heat spaces of up to 100 square feet. You can carry that with you easily. You can pack an additional cylinder in case you are going car camping. The low oxygen sensor and tip-over automatic shut-off make it safe to use in enclosed spaces. Also, this comes with a carrying case as well.
Furthermore, The Mr Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy is the perfect option for backpackers looking for a hassle-free way to heat small spaces. Perfectly suited for use up to 7000 feet above sea level, this little buddy packs a punch, heating your tent or other small room in no time.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Tent safe heater
- Low oxygen sensor
- Tip-over automatic shut-off
- Durable
Cons
- There is no high limit automatic shut off
Best For Outdoor
3. Texsport Sportsmate Heater
This Texsport Sportsmate Heater is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. Whether camping, tailgating, or just wanting to keep warm on a cold day, this heater does the trick. It hooks up to a 16.4 Oz propane cylinder, has a durable stainless steel cylinder, and burns up to 3 000 BTU. Additionally, it has an auto shut-off valve if the fuel runs out. Furthermore, This handy little device provides enough warmth to keep you comfortable, even in extreme conditions. The steel reflector gives direction to heat, while the safety grid ensures that you won’t accidentally burn yourself.
Additionally, this compact and lightweight(weight is 2 pounds) heater but little extra weight for backpacking. This heater is very easy to use, with a simple and reliable ignition system. However, it is unsuitable if you are camping with the children as it gets very hot.
Pros
- Portable
- Lightweight
- auto shut-off valve if fuel goes out
- Easy to use
- Produces enough heat
Cons
- No low oxygen sensor
- Not tent safe heater
Best With Stove
4. Campy Gear 2 in 1 Heater & Stove
When it comes to camping gear, versatility is critical. That’s why the Campy Stove Camp Tent Heater is such a great addition to your arsenal. It serves as an effective heater and can also be used as a stove for cooking food and boiling water. This powerful little heater will keep you comfortable in even the coldest conditions. It has adjustable flame control and can generate up to 9000 BTU. Additionally, We love its 360-degree design, and it’s also suitable for more than one person.
The Campy Stove Camp Tent Heater is an excellent addition to any campsite, providing both warmth and a stove for cooking. However, you need to be careful while using it inside the tent, especially if there is no proper ventilation. The stove feature is good to have, and the stove works well. It heats up quickly. This is not suitable for hiking or backpacking as it’s a little bulky. However, it’s suitable for car camping or where you can take the weight easily. Overall, the Campy Stove is a great tent heater for those who are careful with its use.
Pros
- 2 in 1 heater and stove
- 360-degree design
- Burns up to 9000 BTU
- Easy To use
- Comes with hose
- Electrical ignite system
Cons
- No low oxygen sensor
- Have to careful in tent
Best Of The Rest
5. Mr. Heater MH4B
The Mr Heater MH4B is a great little heater that is perfect for small spaces. It has an accidental tip-over safety shutoff, and it runs on propane. It has 3,800 BTUs per hour and can run up to 5.6 hours on a full tank. It is easy to start and stop with the push button, and we liked its handle for easy grip. Its tank size is one lb. cylinder, which is the perfect size for a small space. We highly recommend this heater for anyone looking for a small, efficient heater that is easy to use.
The Mr Heater MH4B is a great option for those looking for a small heater to use in their tent. It’s easy to use and assemble and has excellent safety features. However, it is important to note that this heater is unsuitable for large tents or freezing weather. Additionally, the base of the heater is not stable on uneven surfaces, so it should be used on a flat surface. The Mr Heater MH4B is a good option for those needing a small, portable heater
Pros
- Lightweight
- Tent safe heater
- Low oxygen sensor
- Tip-over automatic shut-off
- Durable
- Portable
Cons
- There is no high limit automatic shut off
- Cannot stand on even surfaces
6. MARTIN Parabolic Gas Heater
The MARTIN Parabolic Gas Heater is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a portable, adjustable and extendable gas heater. This heater comes with an extendable cylinder base, perfect for uneven surfaces. With adjustable heat control, so you can set it to low, medium or high, depending on your needs. This works with a 1 lb propane bottle, which is not included but can be easily purchased separately. This heater produces up to 3,100 BTUs of heat and can run for 7-8 hours on a single gas tank. The Martin Parabolic Gas Heater also features an auto-shutoff function in case the flame goes out and a carrying handle for easy transport. Unfortunately, it’s a bit noisy, which could be a problem for hunters or other outdoor enthusiasts trying to maintain a low profile.
We were pleased with the MARTIN Parabolic Gas Heater. We needed a heater that we could also use as a table top heater, and this one fit the bill perfectly. It was very easy to assemble and store. Additionally, it cooled down quickly after turning off so We didn’t have to wait for a more extended period. Overall, this is a good heater considering the price.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to carry
- Great for camping, fishing, and hunting
- Has 4 heating options
- Affordable
- Suitable for outdoor
Cons
- No low oxygen sensor
- Better to not run while sleeping
7. Flame King Outdoor Heater
The Flame King Propane Camping Heater is an excellent option for anyone who enjoys camping and outdoor activities. It provides warmth up to 3000 BTU and hooks up to a 16.4 OZ propane cylinder, making it ideal for camping and fishing trips. The foldable legs give it stability, so it doesn’t tip over easily. Advanced catalytic heating is 99% more heat efficient than traditional flame heaters. This easy-to-use heater can run for a long time on a low setting, providing enough heat to keep you comfortable even in cold weather. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about ignition issues that can sometimes occur with other types of heaters in cold weather.
The Flame King Outdoor Heater is a great way to keep warm during cooler weather. However, when it is turned up to full strength, the outer part of the heater can become quite hot. There is no safety shield to protect you from the heat, so be careful when touching it if you need to move it. This heater is well built and should last for several years. Since it is small, you can easily store it away when not in use.
Pros
- Easily portable
- High quality
- Stable
- Advanced catalytic heating
- Compact design
Cons
- No low oxygen sensor
- Hot to move while running
8. Honeywell HHF360V
The Honeywell HHF360V is a small, easily portable camper heater with many safety sensors. The tip-over safety switch, overheat protection, and auto-off timer makes it perfect for indoor use. Since it’s lightweight, you can carry it easily. In addition, the 360-degree design will ensure that everyone around it is warm, and the tent-safe design means you won’t have to worry about it tipping over and starting a fire. Plus, it doesn’t need propane fuel, making it even more convenient.
This is an electric space heater that is great for camping. It uses electricity to generate heat, so it is ideal for camping where there is an electrical outlet or generator available. The heater is also very safe to use in campers or tents. It produces no noise and does not produce any bad smells. Additionally, the Honeywell HHF360V can keep a tent warm even during extremely cold conditions.
Furthermore, this heater is an excellent choice for a flexible and safe option. You can easily set the heat level from low to high based on your needs, and the timer feature ensures that you won’t have to worry about running all night. Some people have complained about the unit’s sound, but we found it is not noisier than a small fan. Additionally, this heater is suitable for children as well. If they touch it, they won’t be harmed. So, if you are camping with children, you can confidently take this heater.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Tip-over safety switch
- Overheat protection
- Auto-off timer
- Electric heater option
- Lightweight
- Good for families
Cons
- There is no high limit automatic shut off
- Need electricity
9. Andily Ceramic Space Heater
Andily Ceramic Space Heater is another electric heater suitable for camping and outdoor activities. It’s very small and compact. Net Weight is 2.76lbs, so you can easily carry it with you. It has a tip-over protection switch; we love and appreciate this feature. With the adjustable thermostat, you can set it to the temperature you want. The heating element is surrounded by ceramic plates, which help to distribute the heat evenly. You can adjust its high and low settings according to your needs. It will heat up to 1500 watts; on the low setting, it will heat up to 750 watts.
When camping in colder weather, Andily Ceramic Space Heater is a great tent heater. It can heat small to medium-sized tents easily and quickly, so you don’t have to worry about being cold at night. The handle is also very comfortable to hold, making it easy to carry when camping. Additionally, this electric heater is very quiet, so you can sleep peacefully without being bothered by noise.
Pros
- Heats up quickly and efficiently
- Safe to use
- Has high and low settings
- Automatic turn off if knocked over
- Adjustable Heat
- Safe for pets
Cons
- Depends on electricity
- Small for bigger tents specially during cold weather
- Need proper place to put it
How To Choose Best Tent Heater For Camping
There are a few things to consider when choosing the best camping heater for your needs:
- Think about the type of heat you need. Do you need just a little warmth to take the chill off, or do you need enough heat to keep everyone in your party comfortable?
- Consider how easy the heater is to use. Some models require batteries or propane, while others can be plugged into an outlet.
- Decide how important portability is to you. Some heaters are small and light enough to be carried in a backpack, while others are too large and bulky to be easily transported.
- Consider the price.
Some models are very inexpensive, while others can cost hundreds of dollars. Let’s discuss these points in detail.
Size of the Heater
When choosing a tent heater, size is an important consideration. For car camping or van camping, you can select a larger model for more power. However, if you’re backpacking, you’ll want to choose a lighter, more compact model. Our top tent heaters list includes models of different sizes, so you can find the right one for your needs.
The size of the heater will also affect how much fuel it uses. For example, a larger heater will use more propane than a smaller one. So if you’re concerned about fuel efficiency, choose a compact model with less fuel. Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy and Mr. Heater MH4B more compact and better suited for backpacking. On the other hand Mr Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy and Andily Ceramic Space Heater big in sizes and better for car camping, RVing and where you don’t have transportation issues.
Fuel Type
When considering what type of heater to buy for your tent, fuel is essential. The three main types of heaters are propane, electric, and rechargeable. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Propane heaters are typically the most powerful and can be used in any weather. However, they require a propane tank, which can be bulky and heavy.
Electric heaters are less powerful than propane heaters, but they do not need a separate fuel source. Finally, rechargeable heaters are the most compact and lightweight option. Still, they may not have enough power to heat a large space. Ultimately, your best type of heater will depend on your specific needs.
Safety
Without any doubt, safety is of the utmost important thing to keep in mind while selecting a heater for your camping tent. And safety is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about a tent heater. Is it not so? Not all heaters are suitable for use inside a tent, and some are better suited outside the tent.
However, some heaters are designed to be used inside the tent while you are awake, and others can be used while you sleep. Therefore, it is crucial to read our reviews for each product and select the heater that best suits your needs. Even though some heaters come with safety features, we still advise you to be careful when using any type of heater.
FAQs
Can you use heater in a tent?
Do you want to keep yourself warm in a tent in low temperatures? Then a camping heater or tent heater is the best option for you, but you need to know some things before buying one. So you don’t get yourself in a bad situation while camping.
Not all camp heaters are tent-friendly. Therefore, be careful while picking tent safe heater. The most dangerous thing that can happen while using a tent heater is the accumulation of CO2 in the air. Therefore, tent heaters should have sensors that notice when there is more CO2 and shut off automatically.
The best you can do is buy a tent-safe heater with an automatic shut-off when it senses this problem. Also, a safe tent heater is usually battery powered heater for camping. Nowadays, tents have many air ventilation windows, so be sure to open these.
How can I keep my tent warm without electricity?
Not all camping places have electricity, and if you like going into the woods, you most certainly don’t have access to electricity. That is when a portable heater for camping comes into place. The most common portable heater for camping is a propane camping heater. They are an excellent option for most people because they are warm enough and durable for every camper’s need. Look for a propane camping heater that is a safe tent heater. A battery-powered heater is a good option for backpackers that need a lightweight heater for their hikes. They provide enough warmth, and they are easy to use.
Are there heaters that run on batteries?
Battery technology has come a long way. Batteries can withstand many things and are very good at storing electric power. This technology has its uses even in camping equipment such as portable heaters. So yes, there are camper heaters that run on batteries. But, you might think, are they good enough for the harsh conditions campers find themselves in?
Of course, they are. A battery-operated heater for camping electric camping is one of the toughest because there are fewer pieces than a traditional propane camping heater. Also, they are very warm due to the big electric capacity of today’s batteries. Another plus is that they are very lightweight, which is a great option for backpackers out on a trail.
Summary
Heaters are a necessary part of camping, whether you’re trying to keep warm in the coldest climates or just need a little extra heat on a mild day. The best camping tent heater for you will depend on your specific needs and what type of camping you plan to do. We hope our guide has helped you narrow down your options and that you find the perfect heater for your next outdoor adventure. Have any questions that weren’t answered in this post? Check out our FAQs section or leave us a comment – we love hearing from our readers.
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