Camping is good, exciting, and fun. However, it may not be comfortable when you camp during the winter without keeping yourself warm. Luckily, there are various strategies to keep you warm inside the tent during cold weather. One of these is the use of heaters for tents winter camping. We have here three of the best portable heaters in town for you to consider. Just check them out below!
HEATERS FOR TENTS WINTER CAMPING PRODUCT NAME EXPERT RATING CHECK PRICE
Texsport Handy Tent Heater 
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Honeywell HHF360V Energy Efficient Portable Heater Check Price
Brightown Portable Ceramic Heater 
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How to Stay Warm during Winter Camping
Actually, most campers and backpackers almost came up with various strategies on making their camping trip comfortable. Depending on the length of their camping and on the weather condition, long time campers always have a solution for their camping dilemmas.
They already knew different sleeping techniques for them to rest after a long tiring activity on the encampment. Moreover, on a winter camping, they also have ways of keeping themselves warm during the cold night on the outdoors.
Below are some of the helpful tips on how to stay warm on a winter camping:
Immediately grab an extra layer
The initial step on staying warm during winter camping is to give yourself an additional layer to warm you up. This is actually an important thing to do the moment the temperature during the night starts to drop. Basically, do not wait until you feel that it is totally cold as it will take some time to warm your body up again. Moreover, it is also good to bring additional blankets to add up to your layer. Actually, thermal blankets made of thick fleece may be a big help during the cold night.
Have your thermals
Generally, most think that thermals are for the oldies. However, a good set of leggings and long-sleeves thermal top are beneficial on a camping trip. This is basically suitable for an early spring, autumn, and most especially on winter camping.
Bring a hot water bottle
Once you plan to bivouac, don’t forget to carry a hot water bottle. Additionally, also bring a stove and kettle as well.
Don’t go to sleep cold
Prior to having your sleep, it is essential to take a warm drink, perform some brisk walking or start jumping. These simple activities will basically get your internal temperature level up a bit before resting down the night. Remember that if you lay your body on a sleeping bag when you already feel cold, extra beddings even they are thick, you may basically stay cold.
Put on some sleeping bag liners
Basically, it would also be helpful if you would purchase a sleeping bag liner made out of silk. It would definitely incorporate some touch of warmness. Moreover, it would be great if you would also have some fleece back up so that it will support trapping heat but it is not as good as silk liner. Aside from that, there are also varieties of technological synthetic sleeping bags in which the fillings can effectively capture the heat inside the tent.
Moreover, it is also a good choice if you will be using the appropriate sleeping bag. In case it is a winter camping, try to use a sleeping bag designed for winter specifically. Also, keep in mind that one of the best techniques to stay warm is the utilization of close-fitting mummy bag. However, it is actually attracting to use a duvet but it cannot do the work of warming up your body during the campout.
Use tent carpet in insulating the tent
Generally, fitted tent carpet serves as an insulating layer and prevents the cold from coming up the floor. In case, you don’t have one, picnic rugs or rag rugs will also do the work. This will also be great in stepping over a cold ground of the campsite.
Avoid using large and spacious tent
Basically, if the tent is too spacious enough and there are only a few bodies there, expect that space remains cooler. Always bear in mind that sleeping compartments inside a large tent can easily warm-up compared to those living bodies. This means that if the camping is just for a short period of time for two, it would be useful to reduce the tent size. Other ideas would be switching to a tent made of polycotton or canvas material as these are more efficient in reducing heat loss.
Have a portable heater
Generally, using a portable heater would make a lot of difference in warming up your tent. Yet, regardless of the type, whether it is an electric or a gas type, the use of portable heaters needs extra cautions. Also, bear in mind that any heater type must not be left on for a long period of time.
What to look for when buying heaters for tents winter camping?
Similar to other products in the market, heaters for tents winter camping come in a wide array of options and brands. Yet, knowing this, various factors are also in the list for consideration to guarantee that the heaters for tents winter camping meet the standards and preferences of the consumers. Here are the things that you must check prior to buying heaters for tents winter camping:
Types of heaters for tents winter camping
Generally, portable heaters have two main types to choose from – the electric and the gas heater.
1. Electric
In terms of advantages, the electric type of heater has lots of it. Initially, it emits absolute zero toxins. By this, the air cleanliness will not be affected and the suffocation dangers is not a means of worrying. However, this heater type is not always a good choice.
Most encampments do not have service hookups which mean that if you have this type of heater, it won’t basically work in the site. What you’ll need is a heater powered by a battery. Unfortunately, battery-powered heaters available in the market are very minimal and the heating capacity is generally restricted.
2. Gas (Propane or Butane)
Basically, compared to the electric type of heater, the propane or butane gas heaters are more popular. The burning fuels are generally cleaner rather than the other options like the kerosene. Moreover, this heater type entails lesser drawbacks in terms of using inside an enclosed area. In addition, finding fuel is also very easy because it is widely available in portable canisters.
Size of the tent
The next in line when it comes in looking for the heaters for tents winter camping is the size of the area that you will need to warm up. Actually, opting for the bigger one is very tempting considering that the big one may possibly warm up the tent. However, it is also a good thing to take account of the space restrictions as well.
Basically, heaters for tents winter camping are factors in creating fire which means that it should never go along with the linens or fabrics while you sleep inside the tent. That’s basically the reason why you need to opt for a smaller model that can actually stay away from you. Additionally, smaller heaters for tents winter camping also use lesser fuel and are more portable.
Moreover, a small tent intended for 2-person will generally warm up faster compared to a bigger tent that can accommodate around 10 people. This means that it is actually better to go for heaters for tents winter camping that have an output that matches the tent area. Basically, heat output is being measured based on the BTU or the British Thermal Units which is the energy required to heat the water of one pound by one degree Fahrenheit.
Calculating the tent’s required heat output:
Check the following formula so that you can calculate the heat output for the tent:
- Basically, get the cubic feet by measuring the dimensions of the tent’s space. Take the length, width, and its height and multiply them.
CUBIC FEET = Length x Width x Height
2. Eventually, from your desired inside temperature, take away the outside temperature. With this, you will get the desired temperature increase.
TEMPERATURE INCREASE = desired inside temperature – outside temperature
3. Finally, after having those values, compute for the required BTU.
- Use this formula when the temperature measurement is based on Fahrenheit:
BTU = Cubic Feet x Temperature Increase x 0.133
- Go for the below formula in case the measurement of temperature comes from Celsius:
BTU = Cubic Feet x Temperature Increase x 0.2394
Complimenting with the tent’s required heat output:
Basically, the standard BTU output is around the 100,000 range which is based on the typical home furnace. However, in terms of small heaters for tents winter camping, only a fraction of the standard is needed to heat up space. Actually, heaters for tents winter camping with a rating of 5,000 BTU are sufficient enough to warm up the tent. Moreover, buying for heaters for tents winter camping that has fine-tuned control feature allows for the adjustment of the appropriate temperature level.
Durable
Basically, heaters for tents winter camping should work every time and should not only be dependable during cold-weather camping. Because of this, durability is always a key factor to take into account when it comes to this type of camping gear. Generally, good signs of having durable heaters for tents winter camping involve quality materials and smooth structure.
Yet, always be sure to have a search and read reviews prior to buying one. Moreover, also take into account the reputation of the brand of heaters for tents winter camping. Perhaps, it is always a good thing to buy from a well-trusted and reliable company.
Safety features
Basically, when you buy and use a heating device, it is important to consider the safety factor of the product. Gas heaters may generally create carbon monoxide that is a tasteless and odorless gas. It can result in headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, nausea, weakness, and loss of consciousness once it is inhaled. Knowing this, it is always advisable to use the gas heaters within a well-ventilated area.
Fortunately, most of the gas heaters available in the market today come with safety features for the purpose of preventing the so-called carbon monoxide poisoning. In buying heaters for tents winter camping, find one that has an automatic shut off feature which can automatically turn off the device once the level of oxygen drops off. Yet, there are other gas heaters that have an internal carbon monoxide detector.
TOP 3 HEATERS FOR TENTS WINTER CAMPING
OUR TOP PICK: Texsport Handy Tent Heater
Product Name: Texsport Handy Tent Heater
Product Description: One of the heaters for tents winter camping that would also be great during hunting and other cool-weather outdoor activities is the Texsport Handy Tent Heater. It basically adjusts to a maximum BTU level of 2,890. In terms of transport and usage, the Texsport Handy Tent Heater highly comes with ease. A good thing about this heater is that it has an auto shut-off valve for the fuel once the flame goes out. Moreover, the other features that it has included a big paddle foot bottom and safety grid for the purpose of stability. Aside from that, the Texsport Handy Tent Heater also has mesh netting and nylon material that is fire-retardant.
Availability: InStock
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Warmth
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Lightweight
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Ease of use
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Heat output
Overall
Summary
At creating about 2,890 BTU, Texsport Handy Tent Heater is generally the lightest heater with a weight of 1 pound. This heater actually has a stainless steel burner which is durable enough for it not to break out easily. Lastly, it works well even at high elevated areas with excellent stability.
Pros
- Has a durable burner made of stainless steel materials
- With aluminum reflector
- Provides excellent stability
- Comes with a standard size of disposable propane tank
Cons
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Costly
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Bulb made of plastic
RUNNER-UP
Honeywell HHF360V Energy Efficient Portable Heater
Basically, Honeywell HHF360V Energy Efficient Portable Heater is one of the best heaters for tents winter camping that works well on tents having larger space. In order to keep all the living bodies inside the tent, Honeywell Portable Heater acts on a 360-degree heat mechanism. Through this action, the tent can warm up as the heat spreads out all over. However, this heater might not be used for a long term inside the house but operates well on occasional bivouacs.
Moreover, the Honeywell HHF360V Energy Efficient Portable Heater takes the safety of the consumers as its priority due to its production of 1500 watts. With this, we can safely assure that this portable heater will not have to create greater than 6000 BTU which is highly suitable for small tents. This portable heater from Honeywell basically produces heat in a larger space without having to move parts.
Basic controls are present as part of the Honeywell HHF360V Energy Efficient Portable Heater including the adjustable dials and other safety features. Additionally, it also has an Opolar option on its top for a wider reach and a carry handle for ease of transport. There are also 2 heat settings available to have a selection between high heat and low heat option.
Additional Features:
- For additional safety purposes, the Honeywell HHF360V Energy Efficient Portable Heater contains 2 overheat protections
- Includes a switch on the tip that basically operates at a 360-degrees mechanism to guarantee an overnight sleeping over small tents
- Has thermally protected housing which prevents the overheating of the heater itself for safe touching on its surface when it’s on
- Also has thermal insulations over its wrings for added protection
Summary
Honeywell HHF360V Energy Efficient Portable Heater is generally a heater of choice in terms of compactness. The heating mechanism featuring a 360-degree heating movement is basically great for distributing heat from the core of the tent. This actually generates a faster heating process making this portable heater the best buy.
Brightown Portable Ceramic Heater
Another best heaters for tents winter camping is the Brightown Portable Ceramic Heater. Generally, this portable heater can operate on a 481 cubic foot tent area. For safety purposes, the Brightown Portable Ceramic Heater is made of ceramic elements and highly controllable thermostat. Unlike, the Honeywell Portable Heater that only comes with just only 2-heat settings, this heater has multiple setting features for heat generation.
You can generally choose from the three heat settings that it provides. It has a 1500-watt for high heat, 750-watt providing low heat, and the normal cool blow fan. Aside from that, safety is well guaranteed when you opt to use the Brightown Portable Ceramic Heater because of the overheat protection ability. You also do not need to worry about transporting it as it is very portable due to the inclusion of a carrying handle.
Summary
The Brightown Portable Ceramic Heater comes in a compact size but with a very powerful operating capacity. It can generally heat up small to medium-sized tents due to its multiple setting capacities. Another thing that makes this heater for tents winter camping the best option is the presence of overheats protection for safety purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: HOW MUCH WARMER DOES IT NEEDS TO BE INSIDE A TENT?
A: Basically, most tents available in the market have the purpose of keeping the wind outside of it and maintaining the heat inside. Perhaps, the inside part of the tent must have to be around 5 degrees warmer compared to the outside.
Q: IS IT SAFE TO SLEEP IN A TENT WITH A PROPANE HEATER?
A: It is actually safe to sleep inside a tent that has a propane heater. This type of heater can be used safely to warm up the tent. However, like any other heating device, you must have to strictly and properly follow its usage directions indicated in the operating manual. From setting up the process of turning on and off the propane heater, you must have to follow the step-by-step process.
Q: CAN YOU GET CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING FROM PROPANE HEATERS?
A: There are generally various appliances and heating devices that can cause carbon monoxide poisoning by releasing this said gas. The list of these devices includes oil, natural gas heating systems, propane, gas appliances, and fireplaces. They all give off carbon monoxide once they burn. Eventually, the carbon monoxide poisoning can occur within a minute which can cause more deaths compared to other single poison.
Q: DO YOU NEED VENTILATION WHEN USING A PROPANE HEATER?
A: Actually, carbon monoxide poisoning happens in case propane heaters are used without sufficient ventilation. Keep in mind that propane heaters require oxygen so that they can breathe as well. That’s why it is very important to use an electric heater rather than a gas heater in warming up a homeroom or other building.
Q: CAN YOU DIE FROM PROPANE FUMES?
A: Generally, when you use propane heaters, its high levels in the atmosphere can displace the oxygen. Meaning, if you have less oxygen to breathe in, you may basically experience symptoms like clumsiness, emotional upsets, fatigue, rapid breathing, and fast heart rate. Moreover, if less oxygen level will continue to deplete, it can result in more dangerous symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, convulsions, coma, and even death.
Final Thoughts
Generally, heaters for tents winter camping have designs in maintaining the inside part of the tent warm all throughout. Aside from that, they also have the ability to keep the wind outside the tents. This heating device actually comes in different types and designs. Moreover, buying this product comes with some consideration like the type of heater to be used, the size of the tent, durability, safety, and other features that come with it.
In addition to that, in terms of portable heaters, purchasing a premium quality product is actually the best option of investment in the long run. So, rather than to buy a cheap heater, it is basically good to stake your money on a portable heater that maintains its durability for a long time period.
