Best Tent Heaters for Camping in Cold Weather

Best Tent Heaters for Camping in Cold Weather
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Written by Matthew Croft

Updated - August 23rd, 2023

Camping in cold weather? Don't compromise on comfort. I've reviewed the best tent heaters for those cold wintery nights, focusing on efficiency and safety.

From solo adventures to family outings, find the right heater that'll keep you warm and extend your camping season, no matter the temperature drop.

Texsport Propane Heater

Texsport Propane Heater

Our Pick

Benefits

  • Affordable
  • Adjustable heat output
  • Safe to use
  • Portability and convenience

Drawbacks

  • Propane tanks are sold separately
  • Plastic components
Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy for winter

Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy

Premium Pick

Benefits

  • Safety features
  • Efficient heating
  • Versatile use
  • Energy efficient

Drawbacks

  • No wall mount
  • Limited colour options
MARTIN Safe Portable Gas Catalytic Heater

MARTIN Safe Portable Gas Catalytic Heater

Best Value

Benefits

  • Great for extended outdoor activities
  • Flameless heat
  • Efficient fuel consumption
  • Safety and quality tested

Drawbacks

  • Limited heat output
  • Colour and size restriction

1. Our Pick: Texsport Propane Heater

The Texsport Propane Heater offers budget-friendly warmth. Its robust stainless steel burner can reach 2,890 BTUs through a convenient control knob. It prioritises safety with the auto shut-off valve that halts fuel flow if the flame fades.

The sturdy plastic base ensures stability, while the aluminium reflector incorporates a safety grid. It is compatible with 16.4 oz or 14.1 oz propane cylinders, which are sold separately. Convenient features like the carry handle and display box make it a practical camping companion.

Benefits

  • Affordable
  • Adjustable heat output
  • Safe to use
  • Portability and convenience

Drawbacks

  • Propane tanks are sold separately
  • Plastic components

2. Premium Pick: Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy

Embrace the warmth with Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy, your ideal indoor cabin and mountaineering companion. This tower-shaped red heater is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It radiates up to 9,000 BTUs and is perfect for a 225-square-foot space. It can work for six hours on a one-pound propane cylinder.

It has an easy-to-use piezoelectric spark that makes ignition seamless. Designed for altitudes up to 7,000 feet, safety is assured with its oxygen depletion sensor and tip-over kill switch. The radiant burner offers efficient heating, while the unit’s low-oxygen safety shut-off system ensures peace of mind.

Benefits

  • Safety features
  • Efficient heating
  • Versatile use
  • Energy efficient

Drawbacks

  • No wall mount
  • Limited colour options

3. Best Value: MARTIN Safe Portable Gas Catalytic Heater

Extend your outdoor activities into the chillier months with MARTIN’s Safe Portable Gas Catalytic Heater. Exclusively designed for outdoor use, it offers flameless, catalytic heating technology that delivers 3,000 BTUs for up to 7 hours on a single-pound propane bottle.

Not only is it safety-tested for reliable performance, but its efficient fuel consumption also minimises trips for propane refills—even if you’re a hundred miles from the city. Keep your family warm with zero electrical drains, making your outdoor experience cozy and convenient.

Benefits

  • Great for extended outdoor activities
  • Flameless heat
  • Efficient fuel consumption
  • Safety and quality tested

Drawbacks

  • Limited heat output
  • Colour and size restriction

4. Sengoku HeatMate Radiant Kerosene Heater

The Sengoku HeatMate Omni-Radiant Heater is a robust backup for recreational vehicles and camper heating. With a heritage spanning over 60 years, Sengoku delivers 10,000 BTUs capable of warming an expansive 380-square-foot area. The unit boasts a generous 4.5-litre fuel tank for up to 14 hours of heat.

Unique safety shields protect from burns and wind. It is further complemented by an automatic shut-off and tip-over sensor. The heater has a two-year warranty and an adjustable flame and electric ignition. These features make it a reliable and safety-conscious choice for campers.

Benefits

  • High heat output
  • Long-lasting fuel tank
  • Safety features
  • Versatile

Drawbacks

  • Kerosene fuel may not be ideal for all users
  • Odour from Kerosene fuel

5. Cupid - Portable Heater

The Cupid Portable Heater is a game-changer for extending your outdoor adventures into the chillier seasons. This butane-fueled wonder easily fits into any setup by weighing in at just 3 lbs and featuring a compact design of 10.5″ x 7″ x 5.5″. Its ceramic-based heating plate provides a warm 3,333 BTUs, sufficient for personal comfort.

The adjustable handle and support arm offers perfect positioning while folding legs ensure a stable base. A durable plastic carry case makes it travel-friendly. It is ideal for camping but requires a well-ventilated area for safe operation.

Benefits

  • Portable and lightweight
  • Efficient heating
  • Stable and adjustable design
  • Ceramic heating plate

Drawbacks

  • Requires ventilation
  • Fuel-specific design

6. DEWALT Portable Heater

For those who never settle for less, the DEWALT Portable Heater brings rugged functionality to your campsite. Heavy-duty yet fully portable, this radiant heater offers an amazing 12,000 BTUs—enough to heat 450 square feet. It doesn’t stop at just warming you; it also features 3 USB charging ports and an LED work light.

Safety? Check. It’s certified for indoor use with a factory-installed Oxygen Detection Safety-pilot (ODS) and thermoelectric safety valve. Power it up with any DEWALT 20V MAX or FlexVolt battery, attach your propane tank, and you’re good to go.

Benefits

  • Heavy-duty design
  • Versatile usage
  • Powerful heating
  • Certified safety

Drawbacks

  • Battery requirement
  • Potentially limited runtime

7. Allegro 9401-50 Working Tent Heater

Elevate your camping experience with the Allegro 9401-50 Working Tent Heater. It is crafted with an all-steel housing and sealed motor. This lightweight yet powerful heater can increase tent temperatures by 50˚F. You can get 1500 watts of 5000 BTU heat and 115 CFM airflow.

The user-friendly design includes an adjustable thermostat knob (32°F to 100°F), ensuring optimal comfort. It can provide comfort in cold conditions with overheating protection and sturdy build quality. The compact design (12” x 8” x 12”, 14 lbs) makes it a portable powerhouse for camping.

Benefits

  • Rugged construction
  • Powerful heating
  • Adjustable thermostat
  • Safety features

Drawbacks

  • Power source requirement
  • Limited CFM airflow

How to Choose a Camping Tent Heater?

When it comes to selecting the right tent heater for your outdoor adventures, I’ve done the legwork and consulted camping experts to bring you the essential factors to consider:

  • Heating Capacity – Assess your needs to determine the required heating power for your tent size and weather conditions. Ensure your chosen heater can effectively maintain a cozy environment.
  • Fuel Type – Consider whether propane, kerosene, or electric heater best suits your preferences and the availability of fuel sources. Opt for a fuel type that aligns with your convenience and the conditions you’ll be camping in.
  • Portability – Choose a heater that’s easy to transport, with collapsible features and manageable weight. Prioritise a lightweight and compact design for hassle-free packing and setup.
  • Safety Features – Prioritize heaters with automatic shut-off, tip-over protection, and proper ventilation for enhanced safety. Make sure your chosen heater keeps you warm while also ensuring your well-being.
  • Battery Life – If opting for battery-powered heaters, check the battery life and compatibility with your outdoor plans. A reliable battery life ensures uninterrupted warmth throughout your camping trip.
  • Budget – Balance your preferences with your budget to find a heater that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Consider options that provide the best value for your investment.

Conclusion

Choose from our expert-curated lineup of tent heaters to elevate your outdoor experience. Stay warm and extend your camping season with options tailored to your needs, whether you prioritise safety, efficient heating, or versatility.

Matthew Croft
Matthew Croft

Matthew Croft is an avid traveler and tech enthusiast. He tends to highlight on the best travel and luggage gadgets to bring on his holidays. He's also a regular publisher of many gadget reviews that will excite you!