Don’t let the winter months keep you from living your camping dreams. With the help of some awesome gear, you can enjoy your tent all year long. But, you have to make sure you are prepared before heading out into these frigid temperatures. During these chilly months, a portable heater can change your life. Here’s everything you need to know about buying a tent heater.
How to Safely Use Your Tent Heater
Safety is the number one thing you should be mindful of before you decide to buy yourself a tent heater. And before you even use your new heater, be sure to read the safety manual. The good news is that many high-quality heaters now have a number of safety precautions already built in. (PRO TIP: find yourself a heater with automatic tip-over shut off and overheat protection.)
If you’re using a stronger heater that creates very warm air, make sure you are using it in the tallest part of your tent in order for the air to have enough space to rise. This will prevent the hot air from burning the fabric of your tent.
Also, if you’re using a propane heater, make sure you have a window open in order to have fresh air flowing. This serves as extra protection against carbon monoxide poisoning. But, don’t worry, most portable heaters now have CO2 detectors built-in to them. So when searching for your next heater, it’s best to get one with that safety measure.
Finally, don’t be scared to use a small heater in your tent. As long as you’re prepared to be safe, winter camping can be just as comfortable as camping in those perfect summer months.
Types of Portable Heaters
Before you decide to buy a heater for your tent, it is important to know your options. When it comes to tent heaters, there are four main choices.
Electric
The first option you may see is electric. Electric heaters are common for both indoor and outdoor use. These are great because you do not have to buy propane refills. Also, there’s absolutely not fear of carbon monoxide harm. These heaters are typically one of the safest options. The only downfall to this option is that you will need to make sure you have access to electricity at your campsite.
Propane
This next option is probably the most powerful and common for experienced campers. These heaters are great because they can usually heat entire tents instead of just a corner. But the heat comes at a cost if you purchase one of these heating systems you will have to continue to buy propane cans, adding to the price tag. Remember, when using a propane heater it is EXTREMELY important to get a heater with a number of safety options, including CO2 detection.
Butane
Although propane is more popular, butane can be stored at a lower pressure and is, therefore, lighter than propane. Making it a great option if you are hiking to your campsite. However, butane does not burn well at below freezing temperatures or in high altitudes.
Fire
Of course, fire is another tent heating options. But, it’s definitely not the safest. With all the awesome gadgets that exist now, it’s easier to just purchase a heater on Amazon. Typical fire-based tent heater includes candle lanterns. The Survival Tech Shop team does not recommend this as our top option because it is one of the most unsafe options. If you are using a candle lantern, be sure they are on a flat surface and in a safe space where they will not tip over.
Our Favorite Tent Heaters
Mr. Heater
Buddy Portable Propane Heater
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The Mr. Heater Portable Propane Heater is perfect for heating up a family sized tent. It connects to a small propane tank to give it its optimal power. It also has a number of safety precautions including a tip-over function, that will shut the heater off if it falls over or the pilot light goes out. One of our favorite things about this heater is its ability to detect low oxygen levels. Although, more expensive than our other options it is our #1 choice for campers looking to stay warm through cold winter nights. This tent heater may be small but is heavier than many of the electric heaters we’ve seen.
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Mr. Heater
Little Buddy Propane Heater
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Similar to the larger Mr. Heater Portable Propane Heater but perfect for the solo camper or for smaller tents. This heater is small, lightweight and easy to hold in your hand for close-up warmth. Just like the larger option, this heater also has a number of safety precautions including a low-oxygen sensor and an accidental tip-over switch with auto-shut off. Another thing we love about this heater is that it has two heat settings. This helps if you are looking to use less energy or pick your temperature. This heater is small and lightweight and perfect if you’re looking to hike to your camping destination. We recommend this heater for people looking to get warm quick.
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andily
Space Heater
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This andily space heater is small, portable, and versatile. One of the best bangs for your buck if you’re looking for a small heater to keep close to you in your tent during the winter. To use this heater, you are going to need to have access to electricity. If that’s not a problem for you then we think it’s a great option. It’s extremely small at only two-point-nine pounds. Also, it has a number of different setting including fan, low and high. Like the Mr. Heater option above, this heater also has a number of safety features including an automatic overheat system and tip over switch which automatically turns off the system if the heater falls over. This option is great for small tents and solo campers.
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Honeywell
360-Degree Fan Forced Surround Heater
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This small portable space heater blows out hot air in all directions. This makes it great if you’re camping with another person. At only three pounds, it is extremely easy to carry during a hike and has the power to heat up an entire 150 square foot room. Like the other options, this heater also has a tip-over switch and overheat protection. Another great thing about this heater is how quiet it is. Making it the perfect little buddy to use throughout the night and still rest easy.
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To Conclude
Each camper is different and will require a different heater depending on the type of camping trip. These heaters are our favorite because they are very versatile and can be used in a variety of different settings. Before you make a purchase, be sure to consider the many different options to find what’s best for you. But, no matter who you are or what heater you use, safety should be your number one priority. Be prepared to use your heater with extreme caution.
These heaters offer warmth but don’t forget to pack your normal cold weather defenses including a warm sleeping bag, hand warmers, your best winter jacket, and a thermal blanket.