The Best Tent Heater In 2022 On Amazon

August 30, 2022

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Most outdoor adventurers end their camping season when the leaves start turning, and the air gets crisp. But the approaching fall doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying nature.

The best tent heater can keep you comfortable even when camping later in the season or at higher, cooler elevations during the summer.

The best tent heaters put out a lot of heat and are packed with safety features. Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy is the perfect example.

This machine can be hooked up to different propane tank sizes, so it is helpful in large and small tents, and the safety features help you rest easy.

No matter what tent heater you choose, as long as you follow basic manufacturer guidelines, you will enjoy a safe and warm heat source as you camp.

What To Know Before You Buy A Tent Heater

Table of Contents

Safety

Manufacturers have incorporated features to keep you safe, but there are still some risks. Some heaters have sensors that detect low oxygen or tipping and will automatically shut down in case of either.

Most heaters have a relatively short runtime, too. Electric models only last as long as the generator and gas models stop when the fuel is out. This way, forgotten heaters can turn themselves off without risking a fire.

It is worth reading all manufacturer instructions and specifications on your equipment, mainly if you have never used a tent heater before.

Even a fully flame-resistant tent can catch fire under the right circumstances. Fire is still unlikely, though, as long as you keep your heater away from tent walls.

Noise

A tent heater might disrupt if you like absolute quiet for sleeping or going into the woods to enjoy nature’s sounds.

Some manufacturers list decibel levels of each model so you can gauge whether you can coexist with any given machine peacefully.

Comfort

It is hard to beat the warmth of a campfire and a sky full of stars, but when it is time to go to your tent, the temperature drop can bewilder even the heartiest camper.

The right tent heater takes the edge off, though, especially when paired with the perfect tent.

The right combination of tent and tent heater might even convince camping-averse friends and family to join you in the wilderness more often.

Tent Heater Features

Energy Source

Tent heaters are fueled by electricity or gas, including propane and butane. Gas-fueled models generally produce more heat, but electric models come with fewer safety risks, as gas heaters put you at risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Electric models are generally quieter than gas options, too.

Size

There is no need to buy a large heater if you have a small tent. Size is also a consideration in terms of packing. You have to decide how much you want to haul up the mountain.

Even if you have a vehicle to camp out of, you’ll want to pack the most undersized heater to keep you comfortable. This way, you won’t waste energy and space in the tent or the car.

Tent Heater Cost

The best tent heaters cost around $100, but there are options for less than $20 that can work for small tents or moderately cool weather.

Tent Heater FAQ

What about carbon monoxide poisoning?

A. This is a possibility with any enclosed heated space, though unlikely. Keeping a few windows partially open to ensure fresh air flow minimizes this risk.

It might also be worth bringing along a portable carbon monoxide monitor just to be safe.

Should I buy a tent heater based on BTUs?

A. British Thermal Units are a measurement of heat output. Manufacturers will usually list BTUs and recommended tent sizes for their products.

Refer to your tent’s manufacturer’s guidelines for recommendations on heater BTUs.

Which Tent Heater Should I Get?

Best of the best tent heater

Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy

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Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater, Red-Black

PORTABLE HEATER: Portable propane heater designed for emergency heat, tents, campers, job sites, porches, decks, garages, tailgates, barns, sheds, ice fishing, hunting blinds, and more
HEAT SPACE: Perfect for heating enclosed spaces up to 225 square feet
PROPANE GAS: For use with propane gas; Runs off a 1-pound cylinder of propane and can connect directly to a 20 pound cylinder with optional hose and filter
FEATURES: Includes Piezo igniter, Accidental tip-over safety shut-off, swivel regulator and fold-down handle, and hi and low heat settings
SPECIFICATIONS: 4,000 or 9,000 BTU per hour; Run time (max BTU): 3 hours; Run time (min BTU): 6 hours; Heating technology type: Radiant; Power type: Propane; Indoor safe: Yes; Fuel consumption/burn rate (Gal/Hr): 4,000 BTU = 0.044 gal/hr, at 9,000 BTU = 0.099 gal/hr; Dimensions (L x W x H): 14.25 x 9 x 15 inches; Weight: 10.6 pounds

Our opinion: This versatile model will keep you comfortable regardless of the season with its high and low-temperature settings.

Pros: You can hook this gas heater up to large or small propane tanks for ultimate versatility. It shuts off when it detects low oxygen levels or tipping for ultimate safety.

Cons: This is a more expensive option.

Best Bang For Your Buck Tent Heater

Amazon Basics Personal Mini Heater

Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater, Portable Heater for Indoor Use, for Office and Home, With Overheat and Tip-Over Protection, Thermostat, Non-Oscillating, 1500W, Black, 7.52"D x 6.34"W x 9.45"H

CUSTOMIZABLE HEATING OPTIONS: Choose from three settings to suit your needs - High (1500W), Low (900W), or Fan Only for air circulation without heat.
COMPACT & PORTABLE: Weighing just 3 lbs and sized at 7.5“L x 6.3”W x 9.5“H, this space heater is easy to move and perfect for your Home, Office.
CERTIFIED SAFETY: TÜV-Certified for peace of mind, with built-in Tip-Over Protection, Overheat Protection, and a Power Indicator Light for safe operation.
RAPID HEATING TECHNOLOGY: Ceramic heating provides fast and efficient heat in minutes, keeping you warm quickly on cold days.
NOT FOR HUMID ENVIRONMENTS: Please avoid using this heater in Bathrooms, Laundry Rooms, or other high-moisture areas.

Our opinion: This personal heater will quickly heat a small tent and is easy to pack.

Pros: You can have a toasty tent for less than $30 if you have a solar-powered generator or are staying in a campground with electrical hookups. This heater also has a tipping sensor for safety.

Cons: Figuring out where and how to plug this heater can be challenging.

Honorable Mention Tent Heater

Campy Gear Portable Propane Heater and Stove

Campy Gear 2 in 1 Outdoor Propane Heater & Stove with Hose and Grill Pan, 18000BTU Camping Gas Stove Camp Tent Heater for Ice Fishing Backpacking Hiking Hunting Survival Emergency (Taupe, 18,000 BTU)

DUAL FUNCTION: This 2-in-1 heater and stove coming with hose and BBQ plate works perfectly for heating up a room or using it as a stove top when out camping. It is compact and works great for both indoor and outdoor uses.
FAST HEATING AND MIGHTY: With a maximum output of 18,000 BTU and 360 degree radiating heating, this heater will quickly and efficiently warm up you and your area. It works perfectly for 5-6 people allowing everyone to be warm and comfortable sitting outside. This heater is designed to keep you warm even in open spaces.
SAFE & PRACTICAL: Keeping you and your family safe is out top priority. A double fence was designed around the heater to ensure safety. It was also equipped with an automatic turn off if accidentally tipped over and an oxygen sensor that will shut off the heater if low oxygen is detected.
TWO VERSATILE MODES: This heater can be used to best suit your needs. It can be used to heat up the room or the outdoor space or it can be used for cooking. This allows you to enjoy hot foods while on the go.
WARRANTY: Campy Gear offers you 1-year warranty along with 24-hour world class customer service to ensure all your needs are met.

Our opinion: The combination of a heater and a stove is incredibly convenient, especially on rainy nights when everyone just wants to stay inside the tent.

Pros: This model can run on propane or butane, and combining a heater and stove means you have less to pack. The heat levels are adjustable, and so are flame levels for perfect food and comfort.

Cons: This model is too bulky for backpacking.