The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023 – Stay Warm On Freezing Freezing Camping Trips

This is a review of the 10 best tent heaters in the market along with a comprehensive buying guide for tent heaters. The top pick in this category is the Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy.

Imagine what it would be like to wake up in the middle of the night in your tent, shivering with cold. The good news is, by investing in a top-grade tent heater, you can prevent that from happening.

To help you make the best choice, our team reviewed the best products in the market to shortlist the top 10 options. For us, it’s not just about the features and technical features. We went through user feedback, expert opinions, and much more to find out how these products perform in the real world. 

As our top choice, we have the Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy. This heater can heat 225 square feet of space and deliver 4,000 or 9,000 BTUs of heat. It offers a solid 5.4 hours of running time from a propane can and excellent fuel efficiency. The fast heat delivery and solid reliability make this a top-end product that will keep your tent warm and safe.

Coming up next, the Mr. Heater MH4B Little Buddy is the best option for small tents. It can heat up to 95 square feet of space and delivers 3800 BTUs. The compact size and portability make it easy to carry for short hikes. To top it off, it has excellent safety features, including low oxygen detection.

In the third spot, the Trustech Space Heater is the best electric heater in this category. It comes with a respectable maximum heat delivery of 1500 Watts, good enough for 200 square feet of space. What really stands out is the lightweight design of a mere 2.8 lbs and a compact frame that makes it super easy to carry around.

If you want to learn more about how to choose the best tent heater, check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide. For folks concerned about safety, we have written a detailed article on how propane heaters can be safe in tents.

Top Recommendations – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

Here are the top three tent heaters that we recommend.

Best for Large Tents – Top Recommendations

Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy – a superb heater with dependable performance for heating up large tents.

Best for Small Tents – Top Recommendations

• Mr. Heater MH4B Little Buddy – a great choice for small tents without compromising performance and safety.

Best for Backpackers – Top Recommendations

• Trustech Space Heater – an electric heater that balances design, safety, and solid heat output at an affordable price.

The Rest of the Best – Top Recommendations

• Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater – a lightweight propane heater that offers good performance and is backed by solid customer service.
• Mr. Heater MH12HB Hunting Buddy – a heavyweight heater for large spaces and car camping or hunting trips in bone-chilling winters.
• Campy Gear 2-in-1 Portable Propane Heater and Stove – a heater and stove combo offering great fuel efficiency and portability.
• Honeywell 360 Degree Surround Heater – an electric heater with practical features and good heat output.
• Stansport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater – a simple but efficient heater that’s a great choice for experienced backpackers.
• Sengoku HeatMate Radiant Kerosene Heater – a kerosene heater that offers excellent heat delivery and reliable performance.
• Hotaitai Outdoor Butane Heater – a lightweight butane heater camp stove with rapid heating power and durable build.

1. The Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 8/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 9/10
• Weight (20%) – 6/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 8/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 8/10

If you’re looking for something durable and efficient, the Buddy from Mr. Heater is worth a closer look. Here’s what makes it our favorite choice.

First, it is designed to heat up an enclosed space of 225 square feet. It runs on propane, with a burning rate of 4,000 or 9,000 BTU per hour in low and high settings.

Users mentioned that the heater kept them toasty inside a tent, even at the low setting. The heating time will depend on the area, but it was able to warm up a 4-person tent within 5 to 10 minutes. This was with the outside temperatures around 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Besides, users have also used it in high-setting while sitting outside the tent on frosty mornings. The heater provided enough comfort to keep things warm.

And guess what?

Even campers who used this in larger 12-person tents were satisfied with the performance.

The unit can be directly connected to a 1 lb. cylinder. You get a fuel consumption rate of 0.044 Gal/Hr at the low setting, making it run for 5.4 hours. With the high mode, it will run for 2.4 hours.

However, you can also connect this to a 20 lb propane cylinder. But you will need a separate hose, filter, and adaptor. 

Now, the Buddy comes with excellent safety features. The prime feature is the advanced auto shut-off mechanism. The heater will shut off if it is shaken or trips over, detects low oxygen levels, or if the pilot light goes out.

Users mentioned that the tip-over detector is highly sensitive. We feel that it’s great for use on the uneven floor of a tent.

We also loved the compact design and the durable handle that makes it great for car camping trips.

The swivel regulator for temperature control and an integrated piezo sparking mechanism makes using this device super easy. Campers find it easy to start even inside a relatively dark tent.

But you’re probably wondering how the piezo sparking mechanism helps. It contains a spring-loaded hammer and a piezo crystal. When you press a simple button,  the crystal is hit with a force that generates a voltage. This voltage generates a spark for igniting the fuel.

Mr. Heater mentions that the device may shut off above 7000 feet. However, users have used it at 8000 feet and found no issues. Now, that’s impressive!

Overall, the Buddy offers excellent fuel efficiency and solid reliability. It’s not designed for backpackers but a great choice for delivering the right warmth to car campers and RV owners.

We had no doubts about choosing it as the top pick for family campers using large tents. 

Pros – The Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy

• Top-notch safety features
• Heavy-duty design with wire guard
• A fast heating rate
• Can be wall mounted
• Fold-down handle for portability

Cons – The Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy

• At 10.6 pounds, it’s not lightweight.
• Lacks a medium heat setting

2. The Mr. Heater MH4B Portable Little Buddy Heater – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 8/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 9/10
• Weight (20%) – 8/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 8/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 8/10

The Little Buddy is an excellent choice when you’re heading outdoors with a small tent and want the best safety features in a heater.

The maximum heat output is 3,800 BTUs per hour, which is good enough to heat up 95 square feet of space. It connects with a 1 lb propane cylinder lasting 5.6 hours in the high setting.

Users mentioned that even when temperatures dropped to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the Little Buddy could warm up a small tent quickly. The overall fuel efficiency is impressive. 

However, it will not last the whole night. Not that we recommend using a propane heater all through the night.

As expected, the device has various safety features like low oxygen detection, a tip-over shut off and thermal shutdown. Most users were impressed with the safety aspects and the superb build quality.

Other than that, the Little Buddy is compact and portable. At 5.85 pounds, it’s not ultralight, but good enough for overnight camping trips.

As per the feedback, users also loved the simple operation mechanism. It operates through on and off buttons that are simple to use.

Anything else?

We wish the device came with a heat regulator. The ability to turn down the heat is a useful and practical feature.

Besides, it doesn’t connect directly with a larger propane cylinder. So we wouldn’t recommend it for extended winter camping trips.

Even so, the little buddy does a great job keeping your tent or RV warm. If you want to extend your camping season, it’s a dependable companion.

For us, the Little Buddy checked all the right boxes to become the best propane heater for small tents. 

Pros – The Mr. Heater MH4B Portable Little Buddy Heater

• Efficient hear delivery
• Integrated Piezo sparking mechanism
• Quiet and clean operation
• Excellent safety features

Cons – The Mr. Heater MH4B Portable Little Buddy Heater

• Doesn’t come with a low setting
• Some users found the start switch a bit tricky

3. The Trustech Space Heater – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 8/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 8/10
• Weight (20%) – 9/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 8/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 7/10

We have to admit, the Space heater from Trustech is a top choice for ultralight travelers. And make no mistake about it. Even though the device looks small, it works like a beast.

The heater can operate in three modes. These are high (1500W), low (750W), and fan mode. Keep in mind the fan mode is just for air circulation.

As per the specifications, it can heat up an area of 200 square feet in a quick time. Surprisingly, it seems to perform even better in real life. One user mentioned that it could heat up larger spaces, around 250 square feet, within 20 minutes. 

This leads us to its heating technology. Trustech uses a PTC ceramic heating element that optimizes power consumption and heat output.

It gets better…

Turstech didn’t skimp on the safety aspects, either. You get a tip-over and overheat protection. The tip-over protection shuts it off if it falls down. It also shuts off in case the parts overheat.

We give it a thumbs up for making safety a priority.

Users were also impressed by the compact size and the ultralight weight of the device. At 2.8 lbs, it’s light enough for backpacking trips. It can be easily placed under tables or desks if you want to use it indoors or in an RV.

The device is also one of the most silent space heaters. Some users felt it was not so quiet in the fan mode.

Last but not least, we were impressed by the affordable price of this device. Considering the price point, this product offers solid value for money.

Pros – The Trustech Space Heater

• Good heat delivery
• Practical safety features
• Excellent portability
• An affordable price tag

Cons – The Trustech Space Heater

• Long-term durability is an issue
• Not for larger areas

4. Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 7/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 6/10
• Weight (20%) – 9/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 8/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 8/10

Regarding lightweight and compact heaters for an adventure trip, this model from Texsport is a solid choice. 

The construction is simple but effective. It comprises a stainless steel burner, reflector, pressure regulator, and control valve. The device operates through a 16.4 oz propane tank and delivers 3,000 BTUs.

While that figure may not look impressive, the heater works well in small tents. You can also direct the heat to any area of your choice. Also, the durability of the stainless steel structure is good.

While it may not have fancy features, users loved the simple design and the directional heat delivered by the reflector. Campers mentioned that the small device could keep the insides of a tent at 60 degrees even when the outside temperature was around mid-thirties.

In terms of safety, only a shut-off valve shuts it off when the flame goes out. You get no trip sensor or oxygen sensor. So it’s best to use it with the right safety measures. 

For stability, it comes with a molded plastic cup holder with plastic feet that prevents it from turning over.

That’s not all.

The other advantage is, the heater is compact and weighs just 2 lbs. That makes it easy to carry around for short backpacking trips.

Users also praised the customer service and found it super responsive. That’s one aspect we always appreciate.

On the downside, it’s not the best choice in windy conditions. So don’t plan to use it in an open space. Besides, we wouldn’t recommend it for larger 8- or 10-person tents in cold weather.

For what it’s worth, the Texsport Sportsmate heater offers great value and reliable performance. If you want something compact and affordable, go for it.

Pros – Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater

• Multiple heat settings
• Steel reflector with a safety grid
• Compact and lightweight design
• No chance of overheating
• It can be used in golf carts.

Cons – Texsport Sportsmate Portable Propane Heater

• Not suitable for large areas
• Only lasts for a few hours on a high setting

5. The Mr. Heater MH12HB Hunting Buddy – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 9/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 9/10
• Weight (20%) – 5/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 7/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 8/10

Looking for some serious heating power for larger family tents? 

The Big Buddy from the Buddy series by Mr. Heater is the right choice to get the job done. It’s also a great choice for ice fishing or hunting trips during winter.

The heater comes with two heating modes. It delivers 6000 or 12000 BTU per hour. You can use two 1 lb propane cylinders or connect the heater to a larger tank. Remember that you will need a separate hose and a filter for that.

It’s powerful enough to heat up 300 square feet of area. So if you’re looking for a heater for indoor and outdoor use, this is a good pick.

Users loved the fast heat generation even in the low setting. When temperatures dropped below 30 degrees, the heater offered the right amount of heat to keep a tent warm.

Note, the Hunting Buddy has two modes. Some users felt the need for a lower setting. Given the high heat delivery, this heater is best used for chilling winter conditions only.

The other thing is you can easily use the device outdoors. Even in windy conditions, it works like a charm.

Some users mentioned that it doesn’t come with a blower. However, that makes the operation completely noise-free.

We always love the fact that Mr. Heater pays high attention to safety. This heater has an automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS) and an accidental tip-over safety shut-off feature.

A single control switch with a swivel regulator makes the operation super easy. The carrying handle makes it portable too.

But it’s not a lightweight choice for backpackers. The high weight of 16 pounds makes it a practical choice for car camping trips only.

Undoubtedly, the Hunting buddy is a solid performer when you need to heat up larger spaces. However, when camping in a small tent, the little buddy from Mr. Heater is a more practical choice.

Pros – The Mr. Heater MH12HB Hunting Buddy

• Excellent heating power
• Noiseless electronic ignition
• Can be used indoor or outdoor
• Easy to use start knob
• Heavy-duty wire guard

Cons – The Mr. Heater MH12HB Hunting Buddy

• Low running time of 3.5 hours with 1 lb cylinders
• Only for large tents

6. The Campy Gear 2-in-1 Portable Propane Heater & Stove – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 8/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 5/10
• Weight (20%) – 9/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 7/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 7/10

The best part about this product from Campy Gear is it’s a 2-in-1 heater and stove. That makes it a practical choice for adventure trips.

Interestingly, the device comes with three modes. These are- heat only, cook only, and heating and cooking mode. That makes it a piece of versatile heating equipment.

The cool thing is it also comes with dual fuel options. You can use isobutane or propane fuel canisters. Or else, you can connect it to a 1 lb propane tank.

What about the output?

Well, the maximum output is 9,000 BTU. Good enough for small to medium-sized tents. It also has a regulator for flame control and to reduce heat levels.  

Moreover, the 360° radiant heating design ensures all-around heating inside a tent. Users found it incredibly powerful and it can heat up 3- and 4-person tents quickly.

The steel body is designed to remain rust-free and feels sufficiently durable. There’s a removable heating hood that comes with stainless steel railings.

The fuel efficiency is good too. With a fuel canister, you can get around 1.5 hours at a high setting. For longer operating hours, it’s best to use a 1 lb tank.

Users also appreciated the super-fast customer support of the company. We give a thumbs up to the Campy Gear team for that.

At 2 lbs, this is a perfect choice for backpackers. Carrying it in your backpack isn’t an issue at all.

Any downsides?

Most importantly, the device doesn’t come with safety features. So you need to take the right precautions while using it. We feel it’s best for veteran campers.

On the whole, we feel this device offers solid value to backpackers who prefer to travel light.

Pros – The Campy Gear 2-in-1 Portable Propane Heater & Stove

• A versatile and reliable device
• Dual fuel support
• A high-efficiency burner with the robust build quality
• An affordable price tag
• Comes with a 1-year warranty

Cons – The Campy Gear 2-in-1 Portable Propane Heater & Stove

• You need a long handle lighter to light it
• No safety features

7. The Honeywell 360-Degree Surround Heater – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 7/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 9/10
• Weight (20%) – 7/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 8/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 8/10

This heater from Honeywell is a great option if you’re at a campsite with a steady power supply.

What makes it special?

Actually, Honeywell has packed it with some excellent features that enhance the overall user experience.

Firstly, the device comes with 2 heat settings and an adjustable thermostat that allow you full control over the heating mechanism. You can depend on the heat delivery even when outside temperatures are nearly freezing.

Next, the forced fan technology ensures an all-around uniform heat delivery. Users mentioned that it could warm up 150 square feet of space within a short period.

Not to forget, it comes with top-notch safety features. There’s tipping protection which will shut it off if it tips over. Beyond that, there’s overheat protection and cool touch protection to make it touch-safe.

The interiors are designed with industry-best standards too. The soldered heating elements are connected with silicone sleeves to ensure long-lasting performance. 

Furthermore, the wiring is silicone-covered for better durability. The plastic used is flame resistant.

What about the weight?

At 5.37 lbs, it’s not ultralight. But it’s not too heavy either. The overall portability makes it perfect for car camping trips.

Not to forget, it comes at an affordable price. Users looking for the right value will find it a great pick.

Now, users found the fan to be noisy.  This can be an issue if you’re looking for a quiet night of sleep. A few users also mentioned a plastic smell from the device.

To sum up, this is a versatile and budget-friendly heater that can function equally well in a tent or in your bedroom.

Pros – The Honeywell 360-Degree Surround Heater

• Maximum wattage of 1500 watts
• Easy 4-level heat control
• Delivers directional heat
• Great for budget buyers
• Comes with a 3-year limited warranty

Cons – The Honeywell 360-Degree Surround Heater

• Only for small and medium spaces
• Some users mentioned quality issues

8. The Stansport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 7/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 5/10
• Weight (20%) – 9/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 8/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 7/10

To be honest, this heater from Stansport doesn’t deliver a ton of heat. But it’s a reliable performer in a small tent for extending the camping season.

The heater connects with 16.4 oz propane cylinders and has four heat settings. The maximum heat output is 3100 BTU.

The device also works for 8 hours on a propane cylinder. The overall fuel efficiency is good.

It has a metal dish that can focus the heat in a particular direction. Users mentioned that it works great for warming the hands or feet in cold mornings. For safety, the dish is guarded by a metal cage.

Another feature that we liked is the matchless electronic ignition. Users noted that the overall settings make this an easy device to use.

The other thing that users mentioned is how the device is designed to last for years. The burner body is made of stainless steel, and the grills are made of aluminum.

Unfortunately, the device doesn’t have any safety features. But it has a plastic base with feet that keeps it fairly stable. Like all gas heaters, we recommend using it in a well-ventilated tent with the right precautions.

Carrying the unit in your backpack is no issue at all. It’s just 1.8 lbs in weight. A steel handle adds to the portability.

To sum up, this is a good choice for campers looking for a simple and effective heater. If you want more heating power with advanced features, the Buddy series models from Mr. Heater are a better choice.

Pros – The Stansport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater

• Works great as a personal heater
• Excellent safety features
• A durable design
• Whisper-quiet operation.

Cons – The Stansport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater

• Only suitable for small tents
• The electronic lighter fails at times

9. The Sengoku HeatMate Radiant Kerosene Heater – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 9/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 6/10
• Weight (20%) – 6/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 7/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 6/10

To be honest, kerosene heaters are not a common choice for camping. Quite often, handling and carrying kerosene around can be messy.

However, this Sengoku heater stands out in its excellent design and some great features. For starters, it comes with a siphon pump that ensures the convenient transfer of kerosene.

The heating zone is large too. With 10,000 BTU heat delivery, it can heat up 380 square feet of space. Moreover, the 1.2 gallons of the fuel tank can deliver heat for up to 14 hours. That makes it a great choice in terms of fuel economy.

But that’s not all.

It has an automatic safety shut-off feature for safety. There are safety grills around the heating element as well. Besides, the overall durability is good enough for outdoor use.

The push-button start is another welcome addition. You don’t need a match or a lighter to start it up. There’s a separate shut-off switch too.

Note the device also comes with an easy-to-read fuel gauze.

Users remarked that the heater delivers heat quickly and generates no smoke. There was no report of a kerosene smell except during start-up and shutdown.

But there’s one catch.

The wick of the burner needs to be changed at regular intervals. Some users might find that a cumbersome process.

At 22.5 pounds, this is a heavy device. So we will mark it for car campers only.

In essence, if you’re looking for a kerosene heater for outdoor use, this is one of the best options in the market.

Keep in mind the heater comes in two designs- radiant and omni-radiant. They come with the same heating capacity. But the radiant model is more compact, whereas the omni-radiant model has a lower price tag.

Pros – The Sengoku HeatMate Radiant Kerosene Heater

• Tons of practical features
• Great fuel economy
• Large fuel capacity
• Includes batteries for operation
• Silent operation

Cons – The Sengoku HeatMate Radiant Kerosene Heater

• It’s pricey
• The internal wick needs replacement

10. The Hotaitai Outdoor Butane Heater – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

• Heating Capacity (30%) – 7/10
• Safety Features (30%) – 7/10
• Weight (20%) – 7/10
• Ease of Use (10%) – 8/10
• Company history and reputation (10%) – 6/10

The Hotaitai butane heater isn’t the most smart-looking choice in this category. But in terms of performance, it doesn’t skip a single beat.

What’s more, this is a heater cum stove that offers a complete package for campers. The heat output is 4,600 BTU/hr and runs on standard butane gas canisters.

Per the specifications, a 1.8 oz butane canister will last 2.5 hours. But users mentioned they could get close to 3 hours from a can. The gas consumption rate is 100 grams per hour.

A big plus of the device is the rapid heating rate. It can easily heat up a 4-person tent within 10 to 15 minutes. The infrared burner comes with a honeycomb pattern that ensures effective heat radiation.

The four-step ignition works smoothly, and you can control the heat output through a rotary knob. There’s a safety lock and over-pressure protection to prevent any mishaps. However, there’s no oxygen level detector present.

Users also liked the stove functionality. The heat output is sufficient for cooking campsite meals for a small group.

Now, you might say the device looks heavy…

But in reality, it’s not. The metal and plastic frame is sufficiently durable and weighs just 5 pounds. It doesn’t take much space, either.

To sum up, if you want a butane heater, the Hotaitai heater is an affordable and reliable choice.

Pros – The Hotaitai Outdoor Butane Heater

• A multi-functional device
• Fast heating rate
• The swivel body is designed for outdoor use
• Easy-to-use piezoelectric ignition
• Comes with a 12-month warranty

Cons – The Hotaitai Outdoor Butane Heater

• Can’t be connected to external tanks
• Best for small enclosed spaces only.

A Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

The truth is, the best tent heater is the one that serves your purpose and comes within your budget.

Having said that, in order to optimize the comfort levels inside a tent, you need to choose the right model. Considering some factors that affect the heater’s performance is important while buying.

The Tent Size – A Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose

The tent heater’s capacity will depend on your tent’s size. A 100 square feet tent will need a heater with a smaller capacity than a 200 square feet tent.

Buying a heater with a slightly higher capacity that offers heat adjustment features is best. That way, you can regulate the heat depending on the outside temperatures.

Note the heat output or capacity of propane or gas heaters is measured in British Thermal Units or BTUs. For electric heaters, the capacity will be indicated by the wattage.

A heater capacity between 2,000 to 5,000 BTUs for small tents should be good enough. In the case of electric heaters, an output between 1200 to 1800 watts is good enough for small tents.

Basically, it’s better to choose a heater that produces a higher level of heat than one that can’t deliver sufficient heat inside a tent.

The Type of Heater

The main available options are electric and gas heaters. The choice will depend on the type of camping you do. Electric heaters will only be operational in a few selected campsites. Propane heaters are more versatile and can be used on any campsite.

Electric heaters mostly have metal and plastic bodies and ceramic heating elements. That makes them a lightweight option. They are also more affordable than propane or butane heaters.

However, electric heaters have their own set of disadvantages. You can only use them in campsites that have an electric outlet. In most cases, you will need to use an extension cord. Also, they consume a high amount of energy.

On the other hand, propane heaters are versatile but more expensive and heavier in weight. 

Beyond that, there are kerosene heaters as well. Kerosene offers a better heat output than propane but is priced a bit higher.

Keep in mind for fuel-based heaters, you will need to estimate and carry the volume of fuel you will need for the entire trip. That adds up to the weight you need to carry. This isn’t much of an issue for car camping trips, though.

Heater Size and Weight – A Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose

When choosing camping equipment, size and weight are always a factor. Smaller heaters are also easier to fit inside a tent. A large heater can consume a lot of tent space and reduce the overall comfort factor.

Heaters with a higher thermal output come with a larger size and weight. Still, when you’re looking to heat up a large space, you must choose a bigger product anyway.

You’ll need a heater that is easy to carry when it comes to multi-day hiking trips to remote campsites. It also needs to fit inside your pack. In such cases, devices like the Stansport portable heater can be a practical choice.

The durability of the heater will also add to the weight. A heater with a steel body will be heavier than one with a plastic body.  However, we suggest choosing a durable heater over a lightweight model with a flimsy build quality.

Noise – A Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose

Noise isn’t something that you would want while relaxing in a tent. So while choosing heaters, ensure they come with low noise levels. Check for the decibel levels mentioned by the manufacturers.

Noise is mostly an issue with electric heaters. Most noise is generated from the fan or the heater coil elements.  However, some gas or propane heaters also come with a noise factor.

If your heater is suddenly making noises, get it checked. A defective heater can be a safety issue inside a tent.

Safety Aspects for Using Tent Heaters – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

We have looked into the details about choosing the right heater. 

But the important question is this- are tent heaters safe?

Yes, they are. But only as long as you choose the correct model and use it with the right precautions. Obviously, safety is one aspect of camping that’s not negotiable.

Now when it comes to safety, electric heaters are the safest choice.

Why so?

The reason is they don’t burn any fuel. This prevents oxygen consumption and the generation of carbon monoxide or fumes generation in an enclosed space. Also, you don’t need to store separate fuel cans to use electric heaters.

This reduces the chances of fire hazards and poisoning from carbon monoxide. This also reduces the chances of burns or other injuries from the fire.

Get this: no heater is perfectly safe. The heat source in an electric heater can turn into a fire hazard if it is operated without the right levels of safety.

To ensure safety, here are a few points you must check out while buying and using heaters. 

• It’s best to pick heaters with the right safety features inside a tent. These include oxygen depletion sensors and a tip detection sensor that causes the unit to shut down automatically. Heaters that come with a CSA 4.98 certification are the best choices. For example, the Buddy series of heaters by Mr. Heater is CSA 4.98 certified.
• Another important safety feature is overheating safety. This feature ensures the heater will automatically shut down when it gets overheated.
• When using a propane heater inside a tent, make sure that the tent is well-ventilated. This prevents carbon-monoxide buildup. Place the heater as close to a ventilation port as possible.
• Always place the heater on a flat surface and away from flammable objects. It’s best to keep the area around the heater clear from all objects. Don’t place it near the sleeping area either. It may get accidentally knocked over when you move.
• Most tent heaters aren’t designed to run all night. So it’s best to use them to warm the tent for a few hours before you move into your sleeping bag. We suggest that you use a tent heater only when you are awake.
• If you’re a user of gas heaters, consider investing in a carbon monoxide sensor for additional safety. This device has an alarm system that will alert you if the gas levels are above the normal mark.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

So these are the best tent heaters you can choose from.

Here’s a quick recap of the top three options.

The Mr. Heater MH9BX Buddy remains our top pick as a compact propane heater for large family tents. It’s easy to use, and you get solid reliability and a full range of safety features. Overall, a great heater that can beat the chill even in the middle of winter.

For smaller groups, the Mr. Heater MH4B Little Buddy is a great option. Even though it’s compact and more portable, it has enough power to keep a small tent toasty. Users loved the overall performance, and so did we.

If you’re looking for a top-grade electric heater, we suggest checking out the Trustech Space Heater. With superb head delivery, ultralight design, and great safety features, it’s a complete package. The affordable price tag is the cherry on top.

Regardless of your chosen model, we must reiterate that following safety norms while using a heater in a tent is paramount. Always follow the right directions for usage, as mentioned by the heater manufacturers. 

Now that you know the best options, it’s time to take the next step.

Frequently Asked Questions – The 10 Best Tent Heaters in 2023

1. What Types of Tent Heaters are Available, and Which is Best for Camping? – FAQs

Several types of tent heaters are available, including propane, electric, and catalytic heaters:

• Propane heaters are popular for camping because they are portable and provide heat for extended periods.
• Electric heaters require a power source, so they are not as convenient for camping.
• Catalytic heaters use a chemical reaction to produce heat but require good ventilation and can be expensive.

2. Are Tent Heaters Safe to Use Inside a Tent? – FAQs

Tent heaters can be safe to use inside a tent, but taking precautions is important to prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use; never leave a heater unattended.

3. What are Some Important Safety Features to Consider When Selecting a Tent Heater? – FAQs

• Automatic shut-off if the heater tips over
• Oxygen depletion sensor to detect low oxygen levels
• Overheat protection
• Protective grills or screens to prevent burns
• Safety certification from a recognized agency (such as UL or CSA)