3 Best Tent Heaters for Cold Weather While Camping In 2023

Picture yourself nestled within the heart of a majestic winter forest, under the ever-watchful gaze of countless twinkling stars. Each breath of the icy air fills your lungs with an exhilarating freshness, the crunch of snow under your boots breaking the profound silence of the great outdoors. This is winter camping: a magical journey that invites you to witness nature’s quiet grandeur in its purest form.

Yet, despite this enticing allure, the icy tendrils of winter can be daunting, threatening to turn your dream adventure into a freezing ordeal. However, equipped with the right tools, you have the power to transform this challenge into an opportunity for unforgettable memories. Enter the unsung heroes of winter escapades: tent heaters.

Tent heaters are the champions of comfort in the wilderness, melting away the frosty bite of winter nights and ensuring your love for camping remains a year-round affair. They are the cozy embrace that shields your family from the chill, turning a shiver-inducing experience into a snug, laughter-filled adventure.

But this is more than just an introduction—it’s an invitation. An invitation to explore the thrill of cold-weather camping, warmed by the steady glow of the best tent heaters of 2023. These aren’t just devices; they’re your tickets to a winter wonderland, where the crackling fire is a delight, not a necessity, and where layering up becomes a choice, not a chore.

So, join us on this thrilling journey as we navigate the landscape of warmth in the wilderness. We will guide you to the three most promising tent heaters on the market this year, ensuring your winter camping is an experience to cherish, not merely endure. By the end of this article, you’ll be prepared, armed with the knowledge to brave the cold and reclaim the joy of winter exploration.

So, are you ready to swap the chill for thrill and conquer the cold? Let the adventure begin.

A Quick Guide:

Tent Heater	Mr. Heater Portable Buddy	Honeywell HHF360V	Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane
Heat Source	Propane	Electric	Propane
Heating Capacity (BTUs)	6,000 – 12,000	1,500	Adjustable
Suitable Area	225 – 250 sq. ft.	Varies	Varies
Safety Features	Wire guard, safety shut-off, low-oxygen shut-off	Tip-over shutoff, overheating protection	Auto shut-off if flame goes out
Portability	Portable, fold-down handle	Portable, easy-carry handle grip	Portable
Suitable for Indoor Use	Yes	Yes	Not specified
Additional Features	Multiple heat settings, swivel regulators	Programmable thermostat, safety drip tray	Quick connection, lightweight
Auto shut-off if the flame goes out	Good	Not specified	Not specified

Best Tent Heaters for Cold Weather

1- Mr. Heater Portable Buddy

The Portable Mr heater I’ve seen is by far the best I’ve ever seen. It produces clean-burning heat at almost 100% efficiency and can be used indoors and outdoors for both.

It takes approximately 3-4 hours for the propane tank to fill. There is also a fold-down handle to facilitate portability. Using this heater is extremely easy, and it produces a nice amount of heat and also offers up to 9,000 BTUs, similar to what would be required to heat an area of 225 to 250 square feet.

The device provides a powerful power output of between 6000 and 12000 BTU. It can also be used with disposable cylinder tanks or can be directly connected to a gas supply using swivel regulators. 

The product is a good bargain in terms of warranty, but one downside is that it does not work well at high altitudes.

2- Honeywell HHF360V

Due to its 360-degree design, this Honeywell portable heater makes a great tent heater, as you can place it directly in the middle of the tent and it will distribute heat evenly. This device also has other features that make it one of the best options on our list: an auto shut off if tipped over or at high temperatures; a programmable thermostat (you choose when to activate heat); a safety drip tray that catches melted snow from melting ice packs before they damage floors and carpets etc.; easy-carry handle grip for moving around easily while heating is turned On.

This electric portable heater is a safer choice than using propane, as it has an additional tip-over shutoff function.

At 1500W, you will need to rely on the campground’s power or bring a generator if your camping trip requires it.

The heater headed up the room ( basement ) in 20 minutes! It is also a great option for kids because of the kind of material it is made from and it shuts off automatically when moved.

3- Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane

The next best portable and affordable heater is an export heater. The connection takes less than 10 seconds. It has a red push button, that we thought was an electronic button, but it is just a “primer” button that has to be held in while lighting with a match. 

Winter backpackers will love the top pick, especially since it was specially created for them. When crawling into your tent at night, this small, lightweight sleeping bag is great for keeping you warm. It’s a great choice for people who want something comfortable but not bulky.

Must Check: Best Lightweight Tent For Backpacking

If the flame goes out, the heater will automatically shut off, as it has an auto shut-off feature –  but be careful not to set your sleeping bag alight while moving around since there is no tip-over safety feature.

Excellent value for the price. Even if it’s 3 or 4 degrees outside, we can keep the tent warm, and we can dress appropriately.

Buying Guide:

When purchasing a tent heater, there are several key factors you should consider to make the right choice:

1. Heating Source: Tent heaters can be powered by propane, electricity, or other fuels. Propane heaters are portable and do not require an electrical outlet, while electric heaters require a power source but often come with more safety features.
2. Heating Capacity: Check the BTU (British Thermal Units) rating of the heater. The higher the BTU, the more heat the heater can produce. Make sure the heater is capable of heating the area of your tent adequately.
3. Safety Features: Essential safety features include an auto shut-off function in case of overheating or if the heater is tipped over. If you’re using a propane heater, make sure it also has a low-oxygen shut-off feature.
4. Portability: Since you will be carrying the heater with you while camping, look for one that’s lightweight, compact, and easy to carry around.
5. Suitability for Indoor Use: Not all heaters are safe for indoor use. Ensure the heater you choose is designed to be used safely inside your tent.

FAQs:

Are tent heaters safe?

Yes, tent heaters are generally safe as long as they are used correctly. Make sure to follow all instructions, do not leave them unattended, and ensure there is sufficient ventilation in the tent. Look for heaters with safety features like auto shut-off in case of tipping or overheating.

How do I power my tent heater while camping?

It depends on the type of heater. Propane heaters are self-contained and do not require an external power source. Electric heaters require a connection to a power source, like a generator or a powered campsite.

What size tent heater do I need?

The size of the tent heater you need depends on the size of your tent. The product specifications will usually indicate the area (in square feet) that the heater can comfortably heat. As a general rule, aim for around 20 BTUs per square foot of space in your tent.

Can I use a tent heater in a small tent?

Yes, you can use a heater in a small tent, but you should ensure the heater is not too powerful for the size of the tent. Also, safety features like auto shut-off and tip-over protection are essential for smaller spaces to prevent overheating or fire hazards.