If you are feeling cold in a tent, the best electric heater for camping is ideal. There are several market options, making it challenging to choose the best one. In the following, I have reviewed the 10 Best Electric Heaters for Tent Camping according to their size, design, heat output, safety feature, and noise level.
A dedicated camper does not let the snow or low temperatures discourage him from staying outdoors. Tent Camping heaters make winter camping more comfortable. If you are going for winter camping, read my Beginner guide for winter camping.
Are You in Hurry? Here is Our Top Pick of the Best Electric Heater for Tent Camping
| Best For | Name | Reason to Buy | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Brightown Ceramic Space Heater | Multiple Heat Settings Safety Feature Low Noise | Buy Now |
| Best Portable | Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater | Instant heating Low oxygen safety system (ELO Sturdy and reliable | Buy Now |
| Best Budget | Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater | Affordable Lightweight Ventilated Safe to use | Buy Now |
List of the Best Electric Heaters for Tent Camping 2023
Following is the list of the best electric heaters for tent camping in 2023.
- Best Overall Electric Heater for Tent Camping: Brightown Ceramic Space Heater
- Best Compact Electric Heater for Tent Camping: Vornado MVH Vortex Heater
- Best Electric Efficient Heater for Tent Camping: Lasko Space Heater
- Best Portable Heater for Camping: Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater
- Best Tent Heater for Winter Camping: Mr. Heater, Little Buddy
- Best Electric Heater for Tent Camping for Small Area: Mr. Heater Buddy
- Best Budget Tent Heater for Camping: Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater
- Best for Electric Tent Heater for Backpacking: Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater
- Best Electric Camping Heater for Large Area: Mr. Heater MH12B Hunting Buddy Heater
- Best Heater and Stove Combo for Tent Camping: TMS Portable Military Camping Stove (Wood)
In-depth Analysis of Best Electric Heater for Tent Camping December 2023
Buying the best camping tent heater is one of the most crucial decisions to make while camping. Therefore, I have tested and shortlisted below heaters mentioned to answer the question. All these electric tent heaters have great heating functionalities and are safe enough to use inside a tent.
No1. Best Overall Electric Heater for Tent Camping: Brightown Ceramic Space Heater
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 7.9″D x 6.1″W x 11″H
- Heat Coverage: 200 square_feet
- Heat Output: 1500 Watts
- weight: 1.45 Kilograms
This heater is one of the best space heaters on my list. It has three operating modes with an adjustable thermostat. The heat setting can be done at low heat (750 watts), high heat (1500 watts), or only fan mode (without heating). The thermostat will automatically turn off the heater once it reaches to desired temperature level. The adjustable temperature range is 0℉-158℉.
This heater is lightweight and portable with a carry handle. It can heat 200 square feet of area in minutes and is perfect for small garages, rooms, and offices or keep your hands, feet, and body warm at work.
Excellent Features and design
Brightown heater has a stylish and unique feature, outstanding design, and different shapes for handling.
Portable and powerful electric heater
Portable electric heater MT-EH01 with handle and knob control feature, three seconds fast heating, knob control, good safety, Piltdown power-off protection, high-temperature resistance to 200℃, no timer, outlook patent design, housing, and all cable inside.
Safety and size
Save for kids and pets, It is a replacement for a great space heater that served me faithfully for 12 years, but it finally broke down this winter.
Warm and easy to use
It is one key switch, easy to use, and has real-time warm care. The size and heating area are 1.5 times the same level. Fuse switch, over temperature fuse switch, independent temperature control management, fireproof material shell, Dumping power-off switch, and mechanical knob switch.
Automatic shutdown
Automatic shutdown when lifted, put down, and automatically powered on. Working distance exceeds 100cm warm and always accompany.
Noise level
Non-silent can be used for home and office. Noise increases less than 15 decibels when the heater starts up. Noise-free sleep, comfortable and heartwarming like sun warmth.
What I don’t like
I use this for my bedroom, which is very small. It works well for tiny spaces only. I’m happy that it turns off when you lift it, but it makes scary sounds sometimes and can occasionally smell like burning. It’s okay for the price, but I would never recommend leaving it plugged in unless you are nearby.
Bottom Line
This tiny heater is very powerful. A couple of features that make it stand out. The first thing is the safety tab at the bottom, which acts like an activator or safety control that powers off the heater in case of falling over or getting knocked over. You do not want it to face down on the carpet because it can light the rug up in no time. It is a super helpful feature.
Secondly, the heater does not get hot while running. It only blows out the hot air, which warms the room up within minutes. The plastic cover never gets hot, and it always stays cool. It is a tiny but most powerful yet heater I have ever seen.
Pros
- Multiple heat settings and an adjustable thermostat
- Overheat protection
- Tip over protection
- 60 deg oscillation
- Energy efficient, so low energy bill
- Low noise (less than 45 dB)
- Safe ceramic element and ABS outer cover
- Value for money
Cons
- Non-availability of digital climate control.
- Reliability/malfunctioning issues were reported by some users, especially with the bottom safety switch, which breaks or doesn’t work after some time
No 2. Best Compact Electric Heater for Tent Camping : Vornado MVH Vortex Heater
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 10.6″D x 10.4″W x 9.4″H
- Heat Coverage: 425 square_feet
- Heat Output: Low/750W, Medium/1125W, High/1500W
- weight: 3.76 lbs.
Vornado MVH Vortex is a compact, electric-efficient, portable camping tent heater. It can heat your tent efficiently with a low noise level. It has three settings and a thermostat. You have complete control over the heat setting. Vornado has a good safety feature of auto shut-off. No doubt it provides you complete peace of mind while heating your tent.
Heat Differently
It has an excellent touch case, so it’s plastic, so you won’t get burned touching it.
Shut off and Heat safely
According to my experience, it has an auto safety shutoff system. So if the intake gets blocked, it shuts off to keep it from overheating.
Size and design
It has what they call a finger-friendly design, Resisting curious fingers. They say it has an auto tip feature, so if it goes more than ten degrees, ll shut off.
Thermostat:
It has the thermostat, which is the mode, so these three lines would be the warmest, coldest, and in-between. It’s the one, two, three, then off and on, and the way these work. When you first put it in the room, you turn it on at whatever temperature you want the fan stays about the same. You can adjust the intensity of heat with mode.
Verity in Buttons
Three buttons would be the maximum. You turn it on max whatever temperature heat mode you want, leave it on the tube, and max it out, and then you wait until the room gets the temperature and turn the thermostat down until it clicks.
Noise level
I was interested in how quiet it was; it sounded like what I was looking for.
What I don’t like
I am sure the Vornado will not disappoint you and will provide maximum comfort in your tent during winter camping. I love the fact that it shuts off if tipped over. It never gets hot to the touch. It hardly uses much electricity either.
Bottom Line
It is a fantastic product. It heats an average bedroom on setting 1 with no cold spots. In short, it is valuable to buy this heater.
Pros
- Unbelievable performance from a tiny little heater.
- Great work
- Most Amazing Heater & Quiet
- Quiet, Safe, Effective, and compatible with smart outlets.
Cons
- Burning smell when the heater is on.
No 3. Best Electric Efficient Heater for Tent Camping: Lasko Space Heater
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 7.25″ D x 7 “W x 23 “H
- Heat Coverage: 200 square_feet
- Heat Output: 900W & 1500W)
- weight: 3 lbs.
This heater got my attention due to its excellent heating functionality, thanks to its enhanced heating technology. I added the Lasko heater to my list after analyzing more than 200 reviews, and my personal experience with this heater is also great. I recommend you to try this heater if you are considering buying a new one for your tent or room.
Heater Size and Coverage area
Lasko heater is a tower-style heater having dimensions 7.25″ D x 7 “W x 23 “H and weighs 3 pounds. It can provide adequate heating in an area of 300 sqft.
Safety Features
This heater has built-in overheat protection, an auto-off timer switch (7 hrs), and a carrying handle. The exterior of the heater stays cool even after long running hours.
Design
The Lasko space heater has a slim and cool touch housing. It comes with remote control and electronic controls. The room temperature can be adjusted as desired with the help of a thermostat.
Energy Efficiency
This heater has two heat settings (900W & 1500W), allowing you to increase or decrease the power consumption as needed.
The adjustable thermostat automatically turns the heater off when the required room temperature is achieved, reducing electricity bills. Furthermore, the widespread oscillation directs the heat to every room corner and makes it energy efficient.
Noise Level
It is a quiet heater and doesn’t bother you with the noise.
What I don’t like
Tip over protection is not provided, which is a critical safety feature.
Bottom line
It is a reliable electric heater that provides adequate heating in a 300 sqft.The Lasko space heater (751320) is undoubtedly one of the most versatile heaters in the market and can’t be beaten for the price.
Pros
- Portable with a slim design
- widespread oscillation
- adequate heating
- Quiet
- Overheat protection
- Cool touch exterior
- Remote control
Cons:
- No tip-over protection
- The carry handle is slippery and at an odd angle
- It gives a minor burning smell after long running hours
No 4. Best Portable Heater for Camping: Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 7.7 “D x 13.4 “W x 15 “H
- Heat Coverage: 225 square_feet
- Heat Output: 4,000- to 9,000-BTU radiant heater
- weight: 9 lbs.
This heater is among the most popular portable radiant-type heaters. It runs on a 1 lb propane gas cylinder which can fit directly on this heater. The 1 lb gas cylinder will give you 5 hrs backup on low and 2.5 hours on high heat settings. You can hook up to a 20 lb gas cylinder if you need more backup.
Heater Size and Coverage area
The size of this heater is 7.7 “D x 13.4 “W x 15 “H and weighs 9 pounds. The product is designed to provide heat energy of 4000-9000 BTUs to warm up approximately 225 square feet of area.
Safety Features
This portable heater is quite impressive when it comes to safety features. This heater has a low oxygen safety system (ELO), tip-over protection switch, and thermal shutdown system, making it completely safe for indoor use. It also shuts off automatically if the pilot light goes off.
Design
Mr. Heater Portable has a robust build with a heavy-duty wire guard in front of the burner. It ignites with piezo ignition, so you just have to turn the knob to ignite it. It has an easy-grip carry handle on top of it. Overall, it is a carefully designed unit with a minimal footprint.
Energy Efficiency
I found this heater super efficient for the fuel amount used. A pretty good heat output gives you a toasty warm feeling in no time.
Noise Level
It is a quiet heater and does not make any noise.
It provides instant warmth with several safety features that make this heater a great overall package.
What I don’t like
The heater can not work at high altitudes. Also, CO2 accumulation can be a problem if used in stagnant spaces. Please follow the minimum ventilation requirements mentioned in the user manual.
Bottom Line
Mr. Heater Radiant is undoubtedly one of the most powerful, durable, and economical heaters. It is pretty good for indoor use as well as best for camping trips and other outdoor adventures
Pros
- Instant heating
- Low oxygen safety system (ELO)
- Tip-over protection switch
- Thermal shutdown system
- Sturdy and reliable
- Quiet heater
Cons
- The light propane smell can bother some people.
- Risk of CO2 accumulation. CO2 is odorless and can build up to a dangerous level without knowing. Therefore, ventilation is a must.
- The heater may stop working at altitudes 7000ft above sea level due to low oxygen.
No 5. Best Tent Heater for Winter Camping: Mr. Heater, Little Buddy
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 12 x 9.75 inches
- Heat Coverage: 95 square_feet
- Heat Output: 3,800 BTU
- weight: 5.85 lbs
Mr. Heater Little Buddy is a budget-friendly, lightweight, energy-efficient, and quietest tent camping heater on our tent camping heaters list. It has built-in safety features that allow you to use it in a closed area.
Size and design
Mr. Heater is a compact, lightweight heater designed for small areas.
Energy Efficiency
Good run time is best for tents, office use, shops, job sites, etc. The big scary concern people are not considering is if this heater cuts off while you’re sleeping, it will continue pumping gas into the space, like a small van. These things cut out quickly if you bump or vibrate them. Significantly if the heater cuts from low O2, displacing low O2 with gas, you might not wake up.
Easy to use
Mr. heater has an Automatic low oxygen shutoff system and good Quality stainless steel.
Noise Level
It’s tranquil and best for camping and official use.
What I don’t like
Propane and kerosene heaters will smell like a wood-burning stove and a fireplace full of burning logs. Sometimes you will feel a burning smell while using it.
You should use a CO detector even though there is an ODS. I assume CO can be produced before the oxygen depletion sensor kicks in. That may not be the case, but I would rather play it safe than sorry. And, if the ODS malfunctions. I would want the CO detector in place! Be sure to use proper ventilation and read the manual.
I want to tell you something else that might blow your mind. Take that detector (detects the presence of methane, propane, butane, ethanol, ammonia, gasoline, naphtha, etc.) and put the detector tip in the heater’s air while it’s running. It will be an alarm. So, it seems even with the propane burning through the catalytic burner. There is still incomplete combustion to the point where burnable gasses are detected in the exhaust. I tried this on one of these identical Mr. Buddy heaters. It does not mean that it’s not safe to use. It’s just information to know. Use a carbon monoxide detector with any appliance that burns hydrocarbons.
Bottom Line
Overall, Mr. Heater’s little buddy is the best heater for winter camping. It is a low profile, portable, lightweight, and budget-friendly tent heater for camping.
Pros
- Battery, power efficiency, Build good quality
- Designed smartly
- Easy to use
- Heat output
- Excellent safety and Overall satisfaction
Cons
- It cannot heat adjustable
No 6. Best for Electric Tent Camping Heater for Small Area: Mr. Heater Buddy
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 7.7 x 13.4 x 15 inches
- Heat Coverage: 225 square_feet
- Heat Output: 4000 to 9000 BTU
- weight: 9 lbs
Mr. Heater Buddy is suitable for small area tent camping. It is easy to use, easy to set up, and best for emergencies and camping. It is a portable indoor and outdoor propane power heater that provides a good amount of heat to your tent on cold winter nights.
Design and size:
This great little heater is still working perfectly. The heater looks lovely. Pretty sweet heater and will keep you warm up to the area of 225 square feet. Simple build well and works well.
Safety
Let us talk about safety with these heaters. Now the most significant concern people have is carbon monoxide poisoning. In Mr. Heater’s buddy’s manual, you will see they have a warning where they do say they need to make sure there is adequate ventilation. So that you don’t have
Carbon monoxide creates poisoning problems. So you should make sure that always open the windows while using it. It’s not safe for kids and pets, either.
Energy efficiently
The Mr.heater system has the regulator located at the heater. In this setup, you cannot have a regulator at the propane tank due to over-regulating the gas supply. The 10-buddy hose does not contain any plasticizers or oily contaminates that will leach out of the hose during high-pressure propane flow.
This 4000 to 9000 BTU propane heater is perfect for heating a room of up to 225 square feet. This heater automatically shuts off the machine if the electricity goes off, detects a low oxygen supply or suddenly tips over, or someone knocks it down f23200 also includes a handle for folding the heater to offer easy portability to the user.
It can provide warmth to a space one two x one with around seventy degrees. This heater uses liquid propane to connect the machine directly to a one-pound cylinder that will provide six to seven hours of warmth. With the help of a filter and an optical hose, you can connect to the heater a 20-pound cylinder.
The oil substance is called plasticizer. This is added to all rubber to give it flexibility. The buddy heaters are unusual because they’re regulated at the unit instead of handled at the fuel source (propane tank more prominent than 1lb cylinder). Depending on ambient temperature, you have tank pressure in the fuel line, ranging from around 60-190 psi. That pressure squeezes and contracts the hose causing the “plasticizers” to reach out. It is the oily residue you will find coming out of the fuel lines or possibly see it puddle up underneath the heater.
Replaced my old one lost in a wildfire. Many uses for me—rooftop tent, winter camping. Warm up my enclosed trailer before trying to start my ATV in 30-below weather, doing maintenance on my truck in the driveway. Putting a tarp over the car with heat makes a huge difference. It takes an entire to get fuel to the heater. Without the gas pocket, hydrostatic pressure can stretch the tank.
Pros
- Mr.Heater is portable and light. You can bring it into just about any space.
- You can use it in a tent, teardrop trailer, van, and in a house in case of an emergency.
- You can just bring this in and use it.
- It is an indoor save.
- Having an oxygen sensor and ventilation.
Cons:
- It’s fairly small. In form of burning propane, it releases moisture into the air.
- Be aware of carbon monoxide.
No 7. Best Budget Tent Heater for Camping: Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 10.7 x 7.4 x 7.4 inches
- Heat Coverage: 225 square_feet
- Heat Output: 3,000 BTUs
- weight: 2 lbs.
You will know the best budget, top-selling, and top-rated Portable Propane Tent Heater on the market today. If you choose from this list, you can be sure that you will buy one of the best backpacking Portable Propane Heaters available today.
Heater size
It gives a vent-free blue flame propane heater that stands out. This model comes with a lag and wall mounting option making it highly versatile and able to be placed just about anywhere in the home.
Safety features
This is a CSA-certified model with some essential features, including an automatic shutoff for the propane valve. If it detects low oxygen in the nearby environment, it helps prevent the release of too much propane gas and is designed to avoid asphyxiation or suffocation.
Energy efficiency
The Radiant heating system can supply warmth to an area of 500 sq ford, making it ideal for an apartment or a couple of rooms in a traditional house. This heater produced 20,000 BTU and can handle a gallon propane tank. It should be run for 21 or 22 hours on a single tank, while it is not the most fuel efficient.
It is excellent as an inexpensive supplemental heat source for many homes because of these essential features. It should be evident that this model is not portable. And is extended to be permanent; instead, it can be installed by an inexperienced individual, so don’t worry about professional assistance when you buy this model.
Design
It comes with a button for the piezo ignition, allowing you to control the heating setting directly from low to high. The swivel regulator of this heater allows the user to use either a remote gas supply or a disposable cylinder. It is available in red and grey colors.
Noise Level
It is absolutely quiet and suitable for heat.
What I don’t like
Because of the instability of the top-heavy design and the fact it’s so tall that the headliner in my minivan was getting too hot with the Little Buddy on the floor.
Bottom Line
In short, the Little Buddy is a portable heater perfectly suitable for tent camping. However it has a compact design, but it provides a decent amount of heat in your tents on cold nights.
Pros
- It Gets scalded quickly
- It works great and keeps you warm
- It is a fantastic thing for camping
- Lightweight and available in an oversized plastic
Cons
- Not best in heating and safety
No 8. Best Electric Tent Camping Heater For Backpacking: Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 10.7 x 7.4 x 7.4 inches
- Heat Coverage: 225 square_feet
- Heat Output: 3,000 BTUs
- weight: 2 lbs.
It is convenient and compact, but it still brings heat. It fits any 16.4 oz or 14.1 oz propane container.
Heater size
Texsport sports mate pressure regulator, on-off control valve, adjusts burners up to 3000 BTUs including model plastic cup holder and large paddle foot plastic base which holds 16.4-ounce disposable propane fuel cylinder.
Safety features
It’s a safety feature if it tips over and the flame goes out. Your house doesn’t fill with propane. The large paddle-foot plastic base will promote greater stability. That is enough to keep someone toasty and warm.
Energy efficiency
Three hundred candles’ power illumination makes this lantern great for camping or outdoors. Be a part of the forest with the camouflage design and sleep soundly with the confidence of its robust design.
Design
An auto-shutoff valve shuts off fuel if the flame goes out, and an aluminum reflector safety grid ensures safe and efficient use.
Noise level
It gives too much noise.
What I don’t like
It should be noted for the Mr. Buddy heater that the oxygen sensor is not very relevant because you can still be getting carbon monoxide poisoning from that heater while you have oxygen present. This heater is especially the case since carbon monoxide is lighter than oxygen and will build up where you breathe. The heater on the ground is getting plenty of oxygen and will continue to create a deadly situation of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Bottom Line
You might look at a collapsible wood stove with a stove jack, like Seek Outside, Luxe Hiking Gear, or Kifaru International. A Mr. Heater Buddy would be cheaper. It works fine at that altitude, but above 10000ft, it might struggle to stay lit because of the oxygen depletion sensor they come with.
Pros
- Durable stainless steel burner
- On/Off control valve
- Auto shut-off valve
Cons:
- Disappointing that none have a thermostat with an automatic start.
No 9. Best Electric Camping Tent Heater for Large Area: Mr. Heater MH12B Hunting Buddy Heater
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 17 “D x 12 “W x 16 “H
- Heat Coverage: 300 square_feet
- Heat Output: 6,000 / 12,000 BTU
- weight: 9 lbs.
The Hunting Buddy produces enormous heat ranging from 6000BTUs (low) to 12000BTUs (high). It is, therefore, great for open heating spaces and allows you to spend more time outdoors.
Heater size and Coverage area
The overall dimensions of this heater are 17 “D x 12 “W x 16 “H, and it weighs 14 pounds which is quite bulky to carry around. It can heat an area of 300 square feet and make you feel cozy and warm.
Safety Features
The hunting buddy safety features include low oxygen shutoff, tip-over safety shutoff, and thermal shutdown system. With the features mentioned above, this heater is one of the recommended models on our list for safety.
Design
The hunting buddy heater gives a robust and sturdy look with a heavy-duty wire guard in front of the burner. It includes a built-in space for an additional 1lb propane tank. This heater also has high and low heat settings, silent electronic ignition, and an ergonomic carry handle.
Energy Efficiency
The hunting buddy runs up to 3.5 hours on low and 1.8 hours on high heat settings. With a swivel regulator, this heater gives a significant amount of warmth at a cost.
Noise Level
This heater is not one of the quieter models and produces noise.
What I don’t like
It is a powerful heater that can fulfill your heating needs. You have to bear with the noise it produces.
Bottom Line
Mr. Heater Hunting Buddy is a great heating solution for heating big and outdoor spaces. It will not disappoint you with its heating capability. The price may be a little high for some buyers, but I would say it’s value for money.
Pros
- Excellent heating capacity
- Good safety features
- Swivel regulator
- Electronic ignition
Cons
- Bulky
- 7000 ft altitude limit
- Noisy
No 10. Best Heater and Stove Combo for Tent Camping : TMS Portable Military Camping Stove (Wood)
Specifications
- Product Dimension: 18″L x 10.25″W x 11″H
- Heat Coverage: 300 square_feet
- Heat Output: 6,000 / 12,000 BTU
- weight: 24.25 lb
The only wood stove on our list is TMS portable military camping stove. It is versatile equipment that can cook food, foil meals, small dry items like socks and gloves, and heat your tent. The burning material is wood which is readily available everywhere.
Stove Size
The complete unit can be disassembled, and parts can be placed inside the stove, which makes it easier to carry and move around. The stove dimensions are 18 inches long × 10 inches wide × 12 inches tall. The whole unit weighs 25 pounds.
Safety Features
Although it is a wood stove, it is very safe and expertly designed. It has a spark arrestor for extra safety. The fire is contained inside the furnace, and flue gases are vented outside through the chimney. So, comparable to open fire, this is a very safe and easy-to-use stove.
Design
The stove is made of alloy steel painted to bear high temperatures and extend the stove’s life. There are two adjustable side cooking tubes for baking potatoes or foil meals. The stove has front and rear air flow regulators and bottom access for ash clean-out. The adequate space at the top of the stove allows one to cook any meal conveniently.
Energy Efficiency
TMS stove is a conventional wood-burning stove and is not super efficient. However, it should not concern you very much because it gives you the freedom to burn a variety of cheap combustibles. It can burn wood, charcoal, and any other combustible material. It provides you with ample heat output in a short time.
Noise Level
It has a fire-burning sound while using it. The intensity of sound depends on the combustible material.
What I don’t like
It is an excellent handy item that serves the purpose intended. Training is necessary to use and operate the stove properly.
Bottom Line
TMS stove is an affordable wood-burning stove, and it’s a great buy in this price range. It provides significant heat quickly and is ideal for cooking meals out in the open. It is easy to handle and operate as compared to an open fire.
Pros
- Multipurpose and useful item
- Safe and well designed
- A variety of combustible materials can be used
- Easy assembly and disassembly
- Compact and easy to transport
Cons
- Starting a fire and operating the stove can be tricky for new users
- Adequate ventilation is needed for inside use
- Need to re-paint the stove after sometime
What to consider when choosing the best electric tent heater?
Following are a few important considerations before buying the best heater for tent camping.
1. Size and Weight
It is important to consider is the size and packed weight of the heater. Just like other camp gear, the heater you chose should serve the purpose but also be small and lightweight.
If you’re backpacking, you cannot have a heater for more than a few pounds. But if you are camping or your car will be parked close to your tent, then the weight is less important. But still, a compact heater will give you additional car boot space and more vacant space inside the tent. Camp heaters are available ranging from 1 lb to 16 lbs. You also need to add the weight of the fuel tank to the total weight.
2. Heat Output
The second factor is the heating capacity of your heater measured in heat output. But remember that the heat output is directly proportional to the energy consumed. So, going for a big heater with high heat output will also increase fuel or energy costs.
The easy method to know the required heat output for your tent is to calculate the area of your tent. Then you can look for the heater which offers your area of coverage needed. The coverage area is written in square feet in the heater specifications.
For gas heaters, the specifications may talk about BTUs (British Thermal Units) instead of coverage area (square feet). BTUs are a unit of energy, so your air conditioners also mention BTUs for their heating or cooling capacity. Don’t worry; you just need to know your tent’s volume (length x width x height) and the ambient temperature, and any online BTU calculator will tell you the BTUs required for your tent.
3. Run-time
Run-time defines the efficiency of your heater and how long it can operate with a certain quantity of fuel. The more efficiency, you can enjoy more run-time of your heater. It will minimize the costs while giving you the warmth you need for a longer time.
4. Noise Level
Heater noise, if beyond limits, can ruin your peaceful and quality time. Many people go camping to be alone and listen to the sounds of nature. In this case, the fan noise of an electric heater or the hissing sound of a radiant heater is hard to bear. So, if you are this person, try to buy the heater with a minimum sound level written as dB (decibels) in the heater specifications.
If you are unsure about the noise level of a heater, you can always check our heater reviews to find out if the sound level is bearable.
5. Safety
Safety is everyone’s top priority, especially when handling items like an electric or gas heater. It would be best if you were looking for a heater with the most safety features. A few important safety features for a tent heater include tip-over safety, overheat protection, oxygen depletion sensor, auto shut off due to zero flame, cool touch exterior, etc.
Gas vs. Electric heaters
When camping, temperature drops can put you at risk of hypothermia, flu, and other illnesses. This health risk is even higher for older people and people with pre-existing chronic diseases besides wearing warm clothes, sleeping in a quality sleeping bag, and using a good tent. A tent heater is an effective way to stay warm and comfortable during cold nights.
Stay warm and cozy inside your tent with a polar 1500-watt ceramic space heater. It is packed with several features, making it an ideal outdoor companion to keep you comfortable. It is always nice to have a heater in the winter months, but the biggest question when buying the heater is whether you buy a gas or an electric one. Gas and electric heaters vary in size, specifications, and cost. Still, the general facts remain the same across the entire range available, so let’s look at both to help you decide first the initial price of buying an electric heater is far lower than buying a gas heater.
You will need a gas cylinder to run a gas heater. Still, a gas heater will work out cheaper in the long run because electrical heaters are not very energy efficient and will use much more electricity to produce heat, especially when looking at coil heaters. They can get the same heat output from a gas.
A gas heater uses just a tiny amount of gas, and when converting electricity and gas costs. The cost of running a gas heater is far less than running an electric heater to get the same heat. Now that sounds like a done deal, but there are other factors you need to know before deciding on things like weight and size.
What are the benefits of an electric tent heater for camping?
Gas heaters are more extensive and heavier and take up much more space in your tent or home than electric heaters. Electric heaters are available in a range of sizes and shapes to suit your needs, and some even wall mountable, but the convenience can cause excess stains on the power circuits in your home. You now compare it to a gas heater which needs a gas bottle. That can run empty and needs to be refilled now, which can be inconvenient, especially since electricity is always available here. So a tip to help you check how much gas is left in your cylinder.
LPG is stored in liquid form, and where you use it, it converts back into a gas, drawing heat through the cylinder walls. Leaving it cold to the touch means you can run your hand down the cylinder during or after use, and you should feel the unconscious level properly. You may even see a line of condensation. Now don’t forget that you can have your cylinders refilled. Another advantage to a gas heater is it is more portable. You can put it anywhere without it having to be connected to an electrical outlet.
Drawbacks:
Using the flame gas heater provides instant heat, while electric heaters may take some time to heat up, but this has drawbacks. Now a flame means you need to take some extra safety precautions, which slightly reduces the air quality in your home. Electric heaters are cheaper to buy initially but are not very energy efficient. And use a lot of electricity to produce heat. Whereas a gas heater is a bit more expensive initially, you will save money on running costs, and remember, you can find a range of cylinders to fit your requirements.
The convenience of added warmth:
Yes, electric heaters are safe, provide hours of warmth, and are easy to use and store. The most convenient benefit of an electric tent heater is to overheat The tent and comfort you, especially in winter. If your sleeping bag provides enough heat, then it’s best to have an electric heater with you.
Considered a safe option:
Modern electric tent heaters are available in multiple options, including extra safety features, automatic shut-off, hot and best thermostat.
The plastic body of the heater protects us from overheating and other materials.
Comparatively, an electric heater is more reliable than gas heaters, and It will be turned off if it overheats. So after having this best option, I considered it the best camping trip in winter.
What’s the best way to use an electric tent heater? The safest way?
An electric tent heater is an effective way to stay warm and comfortable during cold nights. Many modern and safe tent heaters for camping have automatic shut-off systems available now, so you can spend your cozy nights in a tent with proper safety, especially when you choose an electric heater with the proper safety features.
Pros of electric tent heat
● Excellent work with the safety unit.
● Extreme heating level with extra protection system
● Automatic shut-off system
● Less weight with no sound.
● Easy to carry and use.
● In a quieter location and adjustable thermostat.
● The powerful capacity and long duration.
● Convenient handle and incredible shape.
Cons of electric tent heater
● It provides a little bit of sound and a burning smell.
● Reduced oxygen level.
Final Thoughts: Best Electric Heater for Tent Camping
Investing in an electric tent heater is as important as spending on other camping gear. Many people, including myself, would love to have outdoor fun by camping during the winter. But what is stopping you from this great enjoyment? The fear of unbearable cold. So, go for the right tent heater which meets your requirements and budget. But, I recommend going for the best electric heater for tent camping as they are safer, easy to use, and come with many more features than gas heaters.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Electric Heater for Tent Camping
Following are the frequently asked questions related to the best electric heaters for tent camping.
1. Can I use an electric heater in tent?
Answer: Yes, an electric heater can be used in tent because of its automatic shut-off system. Many modern and safe electric heaters with automatic shut-off systems are available now so that you can spend your cozy nights in a tent with proper safety. Especially when you choose an electric heater with the appropriate safety features, I think it’s the most suitable option.
2. What heater is suitable for tent camping?
Answer: Brightown Ceramic Space Heater is a good heater for tent camping because it has multiple heat settings and an adjustable thermostat, overheat protection and is safe to use in the tent.
Following is the list of the best safe tent heater for camping.
- Vornado MVH Vortex Heater
- Lasko Space Heater
- Mr. Heater Portable Radiant Heater
- Mr. Heater, Little Buddy
- Mr. Heater Buddy
- Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater
- Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater
- Mr. Heater MH12B Hunting Buddy Heater
- TMS Portable Military Camping Stove (Wood)
3. Do electric heaters cause condensation in tent?
Answer: No electric heaters don’t cause condensation in the tent. However, some tent heaters, especially gas heaters, release moisture when burning, which may cause condensation, whereas electric tent heaters don’t remove water in the tent.