5 Best Camping Heaters That Will Keep You Warm & Toasty

Looking for a heater for your next camping trip? Look no further! In this article, we are going to review the best camping heaters that should be on every camping gear list. So read along to find what's hot in the world of camp heating.

Tired of being cold & uncomfortable while camping?

That's why we've got the best tent heaters to keep you warm and comfortable all night long. Whether you prefer propane tent heaters or electric tent heaters, we have just what you need to make your next camping trip more comfortable.

Stay warm and cozy all night long with a camping heater. They are easy to use and provide instant heat, so you will be comfortable in no time.

Keep reading our blog & find the best tent heater that will be perfect for your next adventure.

How We Picked The Top Camping Heater

It can be tough to pick the best tent heaters for your needs. With all of the different options on the market, it's hard to know which one will work best for you.

Heaters are an important part of any camping trip, not just for winter camping. You need to make sure that you have a good one so that you can stay warm and comfortable while you're out in the wilderness.

Out there in the wild, temperatures are not predictable, so even if it's hot throughout the day, temperatures might fall well below comfortable limits at night. As such it is always a good idea to have at least a small tent heater for all your camping trips.

We've done hours of research for you and we've picked out the top heaters on the market based on user feedback. Whether you're looking for a small portable heater or something bigger, we've got you covered.

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We know you want the best, so we work hard to provide it. Our team of experts is constantly selecting products for our site that meet high standards and offer great value too! Our opinions are based on independent trials and tests but as an Amazon Associate, we earn from some qualifying purchases. This helps us to keep the site running without costing anything extra for you.

Best Overall Gas Tent Heater

Mr. Heater Buddy


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Why you will love it

Mr. Heater Buddy has been designed with the outdoorsman in mind. The heavy-duty design and easy-grip handles make it ideal to take along on camping trips. The fold-down handle and swivel-out regulator make it easy to pack up and take with you, and it connects to a propane tank (not included) for hours of use.

The Piezo ignition system makes it easy to start, and the auto shut-off feature kicks in if the heater is tipped over or if the pilot light goes out, or if it detects low oxygen levels, ensuring your safety.

So if you're searching for safe, reliable propane heaters to enjoy the outdoors, look no further than Mr. Heater Buddy.

What you should know

Mr. Heater Buddy Features

Mr. Heater Buddy is a  portable propane tent heater that can be easily used for all your outdoor adventures.

It is also approved for indoor use and features a clean-burning, nearly 100-percent efficient design. Being equipped with an automatic shut-off feature, this heater ensures maximum safety even if you use it indoors or within your tent.

Mr. Heater Buddy runs on a 1lb propane cylinder and has a hook-up option for a 20 pounds cylinder as well. At maximum BTU, it has a run time of 3 hours if used with a standard 1lb propane tank.

Mr. Heater Buddy is ideal for spaces up to 225 square feet and provides 4000 to 9000 BTU of radiant heat.

What could have been better

Mr. Heater Buddy is a great way to stay warm, whether you're camping, tailgating, or just hanging out in the backyard. Among all the gas heaters we have researched, this has been the most impressive propane heater, that provides consistent performance. However, if you're planning on using it at high altitudes, this will not be your ideal choice.

This heater cannot be used properly at altitudes over 7,000 feet above sea level. Above that altitude, the air is too thin for the heater to operate safely and as a result, it might shut off automatically.

But apart from this, Mr. Heater Buddy will be a great choice to stay cozy during your camping trips.


Best Dual Purpose Heater

Campy Gear 2-in-1 Propane Heater and Stove

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Why you will love it

Looking for a reliable and versatile portable heating and cooking solution for your next outdoor adventure? Look no further than the Campy Gear 2-in-1 Propane Heater and Stove!

With just the click of a button, you can cook meals during the day and stay warm at night. This handy little heater and stove combo are perfect not just for cold-weather camping, but also for hiking, hunting, or even ice fishing.

It's easy to use and will surely take the load off on your next outing!

What you should know

Campy Gear 2-in-1 Propane Heater and Stove features

The Campy Gear 2-in-1 Heater & Stove is a versatile and efficient solution for any campsite or outdoor event. This unit is compatible with 110g & 230g butane/isobutane/propane fuel canisters (of most brands) that can be nested inside the unit, or connected to a 1-pound propane cylinder for extended use.

This camping heater has 3 separate modes of heating so that you can use this as a standalone heater or just as a stove or do both at the same time.

The Campy Gear 2-in-1 Heater & Stove provides a maximum output of 9,000 BTUs, 360° radiant heating, adjustable flame control, and a sturdy stand that supports up to 12-inch pans and pots.

Whether you are warming yourself in colder climates or cooking a gourmet meal, this little Campy Gear 2-in-1 Heater & Stove has the power and versatility to get the job done.

What could have been better

The Campy Gear 2-in-1 Heater & Stove is a great option for those who are not afraid of open-flame heaters. This cute-looking heater comes in handy when you need to heat yourself up or your food or water. It also has a stove attachment that makes it possible to use it for heavier cooking.

However, if you have to use it solely for heavier cooking, it is better to choose their Wiry or Hunky model. These models are more powerful and can handle heavy-duty cooking than you may need to do.

Overall, the Campy Gear 2-in-1 Heater & Stove is a great choice for those who are looking for a heater that is both cute and functional.


Best Small-Sized Heater

Mr. Heater Little Buddy

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Why you will love it

Looking for a small, easy-to-use camping tent heater that will keep you warm in even the most enclosed spaces? Look no further than Mr. Heater's Little Buddy!

This patented radiant 3,800 BTU Liquid Propane heater is perfect for heating tents, RVs, and small indoor spaces up to 95 sq. ft. The integrated base takes up little space and the included handle makes this heater an easy one to transport.

Igniting the unit is a breeze - simply push and hold the ignition button and the integrated Piezo sparking mechanism will take care of the rest.

Pick up Mr. Heater Little Buddy today & enjoy the warm outdoors without having to carry a lot of weight!

What you should know

Mr. Heater Little Buddy Features

Mr. Heater Little Buddy is a great way to heat up small spaces. It has an automatic low oxygen shut-off system that kicks in when levels get too low, and it can connect directly to a disposable propane cylinder.

It's also very quiet and clean-burning, so there won't be any noisy flames or smelly odors. Plus, it's very easy to use – just turn it on and adjust the dial to your desired temperature.

Whether you're using it in your garage or taking it camping, Mr. Heater Little Buddy is a great choice for staying warm.

What could have been better

For its size, Mr. Heater Little Buddy is one of the best tent heaters we have seen that can be used efficiently indoors or outdoors. It is designed for safe use in small spaces.

However, there are some limitations to Little Buddy. For instance, it cannot be used in moving vehicles or at altitudes above 7000 meters.

When used safely and within its limitations, the Little Buddy can be an effective way to heat a small space.


Best Small Electric Heater

Lasko Heating Space Heater

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Why you will love it

If you're looking for small and compact electric tent heaters that will take up negligible room, the Lasko Heating Space Heater is a great option.

This cute little heater is only 6 inches tall and has a 4" x 4" footprint, but, despite its small size, the Lasko Heating Space Heater is designed to provide efficient and effective heating. The 200-watt heating unit generates 682 BTUs of heat, enough to keep your feet and legs warm without heating up the whole room.

And since it's so energy efficient, you'll never have to worry about it draining your battery while you are at the campsite or running up your electricity bill if you use it indoors.

Whether you're looking for a way to stay a bit warm without causing your generator to overload, the Lasko Heating Space Heater is a great choice.

What you should know

Lasko Electric Heater

Though electric heaters are the safest options to use inside tents, they have disadvantages. It is difficult to get access to electricity at most campsites. You might carry your own generator or battery pack, even then it is best to avoid electric heaters, or if you do get one, it should have low energy requirements.

No assembly is required for the Lasko Heating Space Heater - simply take it out of the box and plug it into a standard 120v outlet. This energy-efficient, ceramic heater draws about 2 amps and turns on with the flip of a switch.

Compact and portable, Lasko Heating Space Heater comes with a 6-foot cord and a 2-pronged plug. It's also easily stored when not in use.

Whether you're looking to take the chill out of your tent or supplement your home's heating system, the Lasko Heating Space Heater is a great solution.

What could have been better

If you're looking for an energy-efficient way to warm yourself, Lasko Heating Space Heater may be a good option only if you are not planning to use it for large areas or under extreme weather conditions.

Also, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure safe operation while using it inside your tent using a car battery or a generator to power it up.

With these considerations in mind, a Lasko Heating Space heater can be a great way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint.


Notable Mentions

Martin Portable Gas Catalytic Heater

Martin Portable Gas Catalytic Heater

If you want a gas heater that burns the fuel in the most energy-efficient way, maximizing heat production per unit of fuel, then this portable heater is a good option for you.

The Martin Portable Gas Catalytic Heater uses advanced catalytic technology that is 99.98% efficient. This results in a more efficient and low-cost heating option.

The heater can run for up to 7 hours on a 1-pound propane cylinder and deliver 3000 BTUs of heat. However, some users have found it difficult to light at high altitudes, which can make it a less reliable option.


Kovea Cupid Portable Heater

Kovea Cupid Heater

This heater runs on butane and features a ceramic-based heating plate. It is very easy to set up and use and can provide a lot of heat in a short amount of time.

However, it should be noted that this heater lacks some important safety features. There is no tip-over shutoff or oxygen depletion sensor, as such, it should be used in well-ventilated areas only.

If you're simply looking for portable butane heaters that are both easy to use and effective, & don't care about any safety features then Kovea Cupid Portable Heater is a great option for you.


Also, check out our article on Cliff Camping

Frequently Answered Questions

Camping can be a lot of fun, but it can also be chilly at night out there in the wilderness.

A lot of people give up camping because they don't want to deal with the cold.

A camping heater is a perfect solution for keeping your shelter warm and comfortable. Our pick of heaters comes in a variety of sizes, but they're all lightweight, so they're easy to take with you on your next camping trip.

We've compiled the most frequently asked questions about camping heaters to help make your decision easier.

Do you need a camping heater?

Yes, you certainly do need a camping heater if you want to enjoy your camping trip to the fullest! A good camping heater will keep you warm at night so you can sleep comfortably, and during the day it will take the chill off the air so you can enjoy being outdoors without being cold.

There are a wide variety of camping heaters available on the market, so finding one that suits your needs shouldn’t be difficult. Be sure to read our reviews and compare prices before making your purchase. happy camping!

How to Safely Use a Tent Heater?

Tenting in the winter can be a great experience. You get to enjoy the beauty of nature without having to deal with the cold. However, if you don't take the proper precautions, it can also be dangerous. One of the biggest dangers when camping in winter is carbon monoxide poisoning. This can occur when using a tent heater that isn't properly ventilated.

Here are some tips for safely using a tent heater:

Make sure your tent has plenty of ventilation. If possible, open up multiple vents or windows to ensure that fresh air is circulating.

Don't use fuel-burning devices inside your tent unless they're designed for indoor use. If you must use a camp stove or lantern, use them with proper ventilation.

Make sure to check the safety features of your heater, especially the oxygen level sensor.

How do you choose a camping heater?

When choosing tent heaters for camping, you need to consider the size of the heater, the type of fuel it uses, and how safe it is.

The size of the heater is important because you want to make sure that it will fit in your tent & has sufficient capacity to heat it properly.

The type of fuel the heater uses is also important. Some heaters use batteries while others use liquid fuel or propane.

Finally, you need to consider the tent heater's safety features before you take it out for a spin.

What is the BTU rating of a camping heater?

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. Camp heaters typically have a BTU rating of between 5,000 and 10,000. This means that the heater can produce up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) of heat per hour.

This rating is important to consider when purchasing a camping heater, as it will help you to determine how large of a space the heater can efficiently heat. For example, if you are looking to heat a 20x20-foot space, you will need a camping heater with a BTU rating of at least 100,000.

How Many BTUs Do You Need?

The more BTU a heater has, the better it will be for cold weather camping at 20 degrees Fahrenheit or above. Optimal temperatures recommend 2 500-5 000 BTU heaters, but if you're going out on trips where ice may form then we recommend at least 3500!

To calculate how many BTUs you need, use this formula: tent volume (length x width x height) x temperature difference (current outside air temperature – desired inside temperature) x 0.133 = required BTU/hour. If Celsius is your unit of choice, figure this out: Cubic Feet x Temperature Increase x 0.2394 = BTUs needed.

What kind of heater is good for a tent?

There are a few things to consider when purchasing a heater for your tent. If you are using the heater while you are sleeping, you will want one that emits low levels of heat so that you do not get too hot. If you will be using the heater while you are awake, it is important to choose one that emits a safe level of heat.

Another thing to consider is the size of your tent. Some heaters are designed for small tents, while others are designed for larger tents. It is important to choose the right size heater so that it does not take up too much space in your tent.

Finally, it is essential to choose a heater that is easy to operate and safe to use.

Can you leave a Buddy heater on all night?

Yes, you can leave a buddy heater on all night, but there are some important things to keep in mind. First of all, make sure that the area around the heater is well-ventilated so that there is no risk of carbon monoxide buildup.

Secondly, it's important to monitor the level of propane in the tank and replenish it as needed so that the heater doesn't run out of fuel and shuts off during the night.

Finally, be aware that running a heater all night will increase your energy usage, so make sure you factor that into your budget.

Can I use camping heaters on the back of a van (RV type)?

Yes, you can use a portable camping heater on the back of a van. They are designed to be mounted on either a wall or floor and come with all the necessary hardware to do so. The only thing you'll need to do is find an appropriate spot for them and make sure there is enough ventilation, especially if you are using propane and butane heaters.

Can you put a patio heater in a tent?

Yes, you can put a patio heater in a tent. However, you should be careful not to place the heater too close to the tent walls or any fabric especially sleeping bags, as this could cause the fabric to ignite. Make sure to keep a safe distance between the heater and the tent, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.

Also, check out our article on the Best Turkey Calls

So What Are The Best Camping Heaters For You?

With so many camping heaters on the market, choosing the best one for your needs can be hard. But don’t worry – we’ve done all of the research for you and found some of the best possible options.

For your reference, our top picks are :

Best Overall Gas Tent Heater - Mr. Heater Buddy

Best Dual Purpose Heater - Campy Gear 2-in-1 Propane Heater and Stove

Best Small-Sized Heater - Mr. Heater Little Buddy

Best Small Electric Heater - Lasko Heating Space Heater

Best of The Rest - Martin Portable Gas Catalytic Heater

Thanks for reading our article. Now, just click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons in this post to add them to your cart, and you’ll be able to enjoy the warmth of your tent for longer durations on your next adventure.

Camping heaters should be an important part of your winter camping arsenal.

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