Let’s Get Cozy
Which is the best electric heater for camping? Should you even use one at all? Here, we answer these questions and more, breaking down the benefits, safety tips, and practical considerations of using an electric heater in the great outdoors.
Key Takeaways
- Electric heaters convert nearly all power into immediate, consistent warmth.
- Key factors include power compatibility, heating capacity, portability, and safety.
- Proper setup and placement are essential for safe, efficient use in tents or RVs.
- Leverage online reviews and technical specs to guide your purchase decision.
- Always verify campsite regulations and ensure your power source is adequate.
- The Dreo Space Heater stands out for its smart features and reliable performance.
Best Electric Heaters for Camping!
Image | Product | Details | Best for | Wattage | Power Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Best Overall | 1500W | Reliable AC power | ||
| Best Durable | ~1500W | Reliable AC power | ||
| Best for Off-Grid Camping | 250W | Limited AC / battery or solar | ||
| Best for Targetted Heating | ~1000W | Reliable AC power | ||
| Best in a Budget | ~1500W | Reliable AC power |
1. Dreo Space Heater
Buy If:
- You have access to a stable AC outlet for power.
- You want quick, efficient, and quiet heating in a small space.
- You value modern features like a digital thermostat and remote control.
- You need built-in safety features like tip-over and overheat protection.
- You prioritize energy efficiency with an ECO mode.
Don't Buy If:
- You need a heater designed for outdoor or rugged camping conditions.
- You plan to camp where no AC power is available.
- You require a heater built to withstand harsh, weather-exposed environments.
- You need a unit capable of heating large or open camping areas.
Key Features
- Power Output: 1500W PTC ceramic heating element delivers rapid, efficient warmth.
- Oscillation: 70° wide-angle oscillation ensures even heat distribution throughout the room.
- Thermostat & Timer: Digital thermostat (41‑95°F adjustable) with a 12‑hour timer for precise control.
- Operating Modes: Offers 5 modes including High, Medium, Low, ECO, and Fan Only for flexible use.
- Safety Features: Equipped with tip‑over and overheat protection for enhanced user safety.
- Remote Control: Includes a convenient remote for effortless adjustments from a distance.
- Design: Compact, lightweight, and portable—ideal for small spaces or on‑the‑go use.
- Quiet Performance: Operates at a low noise level (~37.5 dB) for peaceful indoor environments.
Our Take
The Dreo Space Heater offers impressive rapid heating with its 1500W PTC ceramic element, making it a favorite for quickly warming up small indoor spaces like bedrooms or offices.
Experts appreciate its quiet operation (around 37.5 dB), energy-efficient ECO mode, and user-friendly features such as the digital thermostat and convenient remote control.
On the downside, the heater requires manual restart very frequently after a safety-induced shutdown, which can be inconvenient. However, take this as a grain of salt, because only few people reported this as problem.
Seems to shut itself off and not restart. That’s annoying but I guess it’s safer that way?
Additionally, while its compact design is ideal for confined spaces, its effectiveness drops in larger rooms, and some feel the build quality of the plastic components is not as robust as expected.
Overall, for its price and intended use in well-powered indoor settings, it delivers a solid balance of performance and safety, provided the occasional reset delay isn’t a dealbreaker.
2. Comfort Glow Electric Heater
Buy If:
- You have access to a reliable AC power source (e.g., RV, cabin, or campsite with electricity).
- You need efficient, immediate heating for small spaces up to 400 sq. ft.
- You value a durable, compact design with built-in safety features like tip-over and overheat shut-offs.
- You want adjustable wattage and thermostat control for flexible heat management.
Don't Buy If:
- You plan to camp off-grid without access to AC power.
- You require ultra-easy controls (the stiff knobs can be challenging).
- You prefer a heater with remote or digital interface for added convenience.
- You need a battery-operated heater for completely mobile outdoor use.
Key Features
- Dual Wattage Options: Operates at 1300W or 1500W for flexible heating control.
- Powerful Heating: Delivers about 5,120 BTU to warm areas up to 400 sq. ft. efficiently
- Robust Construction: Built with an all-metal cabinet featuring a carry handle and tip-over guards for durability and safety.
- Safety Features: Equipped with a built-in thermostat, overheat shut-off, and tip-over protection for secure operation.
- Compact & Portable: Lightweight (around 4.2 lbs) with dimensions approximately 7″ x 10.25″ x 15.5″, ideal for mobile use.
- Ready to Use: Runs on 120V and includes a 16-gauge power cord for easy setup.
Our Take
For campers with access to AC power—such as those using RVs, cabins, or campsites with electricity—the Comfort Glow EUH341 Milkhouse Electric Heater delivers robust performance in a compact package.
It offers efficient heating with a 5,120 BTU output that warms up to 400 sq. ft., and its dual wattage settings along with a built-in thermostat allow for versatile, energy-efficient operation.
Users have praised its durable all‐metal construction, portability thanks to the integrated carry handle, and comprehensive safety features like tip‐over and overheat shut-offs, which provide added peace of mind during use.
On the downside, several reviews point out that the control knobs can be stiff and less user-friendly—especially problematic for those with arthritis or limited hand strength
While its dependency on a reliable AC source limits its appeal for off-grid camping, overall, this heater is a compelling choice for those seeking a durable and effective electric heating solution where power is available.
3. 250W Personal Space Heater
Buy If:
- You have access to limited electricity at your campsite.
- You need a compact, personal heater for small spaces.
- Safety features like tip-over protection are important to you.
Don't Buy If:
- You plan on camping completely off-grid without a power source.
- You require heating for a large outdoor area.
- You need a high-powered heater for extreme cold conditions.
Key Features
- Power Output: 250 watts, ideal for providing supplemental warmth in small spaces.
- Compact Design: Lightweight and small, making it perfect for personal use on desks or in tents.
- Safety Features: Equipped with tip-over and overheat protection to ensure safe operation.
- Power Cord: Includes a standard 6-foot cord for flexible placement.
- Aesthetic: Sleek white finish that blends well with modern home or office décor.
Our Take
The Performance Tool W5011 250W Personal Space Heater stands out as a compact, efficient option for campers who have reliable access to electricity.
Its small footprint and lightweight design make it ideal for personal use in confined spaces like tents, RVs, or camping cabins, while its built‑in tip-over and overheat protection features provide an added layer of safety—qualities frequently praised by users.
However, its 250‑watt power output means it’s best suited for heating very small areas; if you expect to warm a larger space or endure extreme cold, this model might fall short.
Additionally, occasional price hikes can diminish its perceived value.
Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight, safe, and easy-to-use heater for personal comfort while camping, and you have access to an electrical source (such as a portable power station), the W5011 is a strong contender.
4. Comfort Zone Dish Heater
Buy If:
- You have reliable AC power at your campsite.
- You need a quiet, compact heater for RVs or cabins.
- You value adjustable heat direction and strong safety features.
Don't Buy If:
- You require a heater for off-grid, battery-powered camping.
- You plan to use it outdoors on uneven or damp surfaces.
- You need a rugged, heavy-duty heater for harsh outdoor conditions.
Key Features
- Power Output: Delivers up to 1,000 watts of radiant heat for efficient warming.
- Oscillation: Features a 70° oscillation to distribute heat evenly across the space.
- Adjustable Tilt: Allows you to direct the heat exactly where it’s needed.
- Safety Features: Equipped with a tip-over switch and overheat protection sensor for added security.
- Compact Design: Lightweight and portable with a parabolic dish design, ideal for small rooms, garages, or workshops.
Our Take
For those considering an electric heater for camping—particularly for use in RVs, cabins, or similar setups—the Comfort Zone CZ998 offers a compelling mix of features at an attractive price.
Users appreciate its efficient 1,000-watt radiant heat output that provides quick, effective warmth without the fan noise typical of other models.
Its adjustable tilt and 70° oscillation allow for targeted heating, and the built-in safety features (tip-over switch and overheat protection sensor) deliver extra peace of mind.
However, it has some potential downsides: while one user praised its continuous operation compared to competitors, another noted that if the unit is moved, it can shut off for extended periods—a drawback when mobility is needed.
Additionally, the oscillation mechanism, though useful for spreading heat, has been criticized for producing distracting noise, prompting to switch to a still mode.
However, take it as a grain of salt, because as of our knowledge, only one user reported this issue.
Overall, if you have access to reliable AC power and prioritize safety and efficient localized heating, this heater could be a good fit for your camping needs, provided you’re willing to tolerate its quirks in portability and oscillation noise.
5. BLACK+DECKER Portable Space Heater
Buy If:
- You have access to an electrical outlet at your campsite.
- You need quick, supplemental heat for a small enclosed area.
- You value portability and simple, manual controls.
- You appreciate built-in safety features like tip-over and overheat protection.
Don't Buy If:
- You require a heater for open-air or outdoor use.
- You lack a reliable power source at your camping site.
- You need to heat a large or exposed area.
- You plan to use it in wet or humid conditions.
Key Features
- Power & Heat Settings: 1500 Watts high heat and 750 Watts low heat, plus a fan-only mode for versatile use.
- Compact & Lightweight: Measures about 9.2″ H x 7.3″ W x 6.3″ D and weighs approximately 2.8 lbs, making it highly portable.
- Safety Features: Equipped with tip-over auto shutoff and overheat protection for secure indoor operation.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: Features a manual adjustable thermostat for simple, precise temperature adjustments.
- Designed for Personal Use: Ideal for small indoor spaces like offices, dorms, or bedrooms, with a 6-foot power cord for flexible placement.
Our Take
The BLACK+DECKER BHDC201 Personal Ceramic Heater is a compact and portable device designed primarily for small indoor spaces.
Users have praised its quick heating capabilities, noting that it effectively warms up areas like bedrooms or home offices within minutes.
The manual adjustable thermostat and simple controls make it user-friendly, while safety features such as tip-over auto shutoff and overheat protection provide added peace of mind.
However, for camping purposes, especially in tents or outdoor settings, this heater may not be the most suitable choice. Its reliance on a stable electrical power source limits its usability in many camping scenarios where such access is unavailable.
Additionally, while it’s effective in small, enclosed indoor spaces, its performance may not meet expectations in larger or less insulated areas typically associated with camping.
In summary, while the BLACK+DECKER BHDC201 excels as a personal heater for indoor use, its design and power requirements make it less ideal for camping applications.
Potential buyers seeking a camping heater might consider portable propane heaters or electric heaters specifically designed for outdoor use, ensuring they meet safety standards suitable for tents and open-air environments.
Why Electric Heaters Can Be Ideal for Campers?
Camping in cold weather demands reliable and efficient heating solutions. Electric heaters have rapidly emerged as a practical alternative to traditional fuel-based options.
Electric heaters offer cleaner operation, enhanced safety features, and ease of use in confined outdoor spaces such as tents and RVs.
Enhanced Safety:
Unlike fuel-based heaters that rely on combustion, electric heaters produce heat through resistive elements.
This method eliminates the risk of emitting harmful gases like carbon monoxide—a critical benefit in confined spaces such as tents where ventilation is limited.
Most electric heaters also integrate multiple safety features, including automatic shut-off mechanisms triggered by tip-over events and overheat sensors.
These built-in protections help prevent incidents like accidental fires.
Immediate and Consistent Warmth:
Electric heaters are designed to deliver heat almost instantly. For instance, the Black+Decker electric heater we mention earlier can warm up a room within minutes.
When activated, resistive heating elements rapidly warm up, providing a consistent and steady increase in ambient temperature.
This quick response is particularly beneficial during the onset of cold weather, allowing campers to achieve comfort within minutes—an essential factor when battling chilly nights.
Operational Simplicity:
Electric heaters typically have fewer moving parts compared to their fuel-based counterparts.
With no need for fuel storage, refilling, or managing combustion by-products, these heaters simplify the overall setup and maintenance process.
Campers can simply plug in the unit (using available campsite power, portable battery packs, or generators) and enjoy immediate warmth without the extra logistical burdens associated with fuel handling.
Quiet Operation and Energy Efficiency:
Many modern electric models are engineered for quiet performance, making them ideal for environments where noise could disturb sleep or conversation.
Additionally, electric heaters convert nearly all the consumed electricity into heat (thanks to their 100% energy efficiency in terms of conversion).
This means that the energy drawn from the power source is effectively used to warm the space without wasteful emissions.
Versatile Power Options:
Electric heaters can be powered from various sources, offering versatility in different camping setups.
Whether a camper has access to an electrical hookup at a campground or relies on a portable power station, battery system or solar energy while off-grid, electric heaters can adapt to the available power infrastructure.
This flexibility makes them a reliable option across a wide range of camping scenarios, from RV living to backpacking trips where electrical supply is limited.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Heater
When selecting an electric heater for camping, it’s essential to focus on performance, compatibility, and safety.
The following factors are crucial to ensure that the heater meets your needs in a rugged outdoor setting:
Power Compatibility and Supply:
Verify that the heater is designed to work with the power sources you expect to use—whether that’s a campsite electrical hookup, a portable battery pack, or a generator.
Most plug-in models are rated around 1,500 watts for 120V systems, so ensure that your circuit can handle this load and that your power supply is stable enough for continuous operation.
Heating Capacity and Efficiency:
Examine the wattage and heat output specifications, which determine the effective area the heater can warm.
For camping, the ideal heater should be powerful enough to raise the temperature in confined spaces like tents or RV interiors.
Here is a tool to calculate how big of a heater you would need to warm up your space:
Heater Sizing Calculator
Here is a table to get a general idea of how big of a heater you would need. This table applies to all types of heaters, electric or fuel based.
Space | Rough BTU Needed | Watts Needed |
|---|---|---|
Small Tent (2-4 person) | 1,500 – 3,000 BTU | ~ 440 – 880 W |
Large Tent | 4,000 – 7,000 BTU | ~ 1,172 – 2,051 W |
Small RV (Van) | 5,000 – 10,000 BTU | ~ 1,465 – 2,930 W |
Large RV | 12,000 – 30,000 BTU | ~ 3,516 – 8,790 W |
Small Room (150 sq. ft.) | 5,000 BTU | ~ 1,465 W |
Medium Room (250 sq. ft.) | 7,000 BTU | ~ 2,051 W |
Large Room (400+ sq. ft.) | 10,000+ BTU | ~ 2,930 W |
Practical Tips for Using an Electric Heater While Camping
When using an electric heater in a camping setting, it’s essential to optimize both performance and safety. Here are key practical tips:
Proper Placement and Setup:
- Stable Surface: Place the heater on a flat, nonflammable surface away from tent walls, bedding, and any combustible items.
- Clearance: Maintain a minimum three-foot clearance around the unit to allow proper airflow and prevent accidental contact with flammable materials.
- Cord Management: Secure power cords to avoid tripping hazards; use outdoor-rated extension cords if necessary and inspect them for damage before each use.
Power Supply Considerations:
- Match the Load: Verify that your power source—whether a campsite hookup, portable battery, or generator—can consistently deliver the heater’s wattage (typically around 1,500W for many models) without overloading the circuit.
- Use Proper Cords: Always use extension cords and adapters that are rated for outdoor use and can handle the required power draw to minimize the risk of electrical faults.
Temperature Control and Energy Efficiency:
- Set a Target Temperature: Utilize the heater’s thermostat to maintain a steady, comfortable temperature. Avoid running the heater at maximum power continuously.
- Use Timers and Smart Controls: If available, program the heater to operate only when needed, reducing energy consumption and extending the lifespan of your power source.
- Monitor Conditions: Keep a digital thermometer nearby to ensure the ambient temperature remains within a comfortable range and adjust settings accordingly.
Should You Use an Electric Heater During Camping?
Using an electric heater while camping can provide critical warmth during extremely cold conditions, but it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Here are key considerations and safety precautions to help you decide:
Safety and Caution:
Electric heaters must be used with a reliable, properly rated power source. Always use outdoor-rated extension cords and check for any damage or wear.
Overloading a circuit can lead to electrical fires or power outages.
Even without combustion, electric heaters can overheat if placed too close to flammable materials.
Position the unit on a stable, nonflammable surface and maintain a minimum clearance (usually three feet) from tents, sleeping bags, or any soft furnishings.
Ensure that any heater you choose has essential safety features such as tip-over switches and overheat protection.
These mechanisms are critical in preventing accidents if the heater is accidentally bumped or obstructed.
Is It Necessary?
In many camping scenarios, especially when temperatures are only mildly cold, proper layering of clothing, insulated sleeping gear, and strategic tent insulation might suffice.
However, in extreme conditions, an electric heater can make a significant difference in comfort and safety by maintaining a stable internal temperature.
However, when camping off-grid, consider the impact on your power source. Electric heaters can draw substantial power (typically around 1,500 watts).
So evaluate whether your battery or generator system can support continuous use without compromising other essential functions.
Regulations and Guidelines:
Before setting up, check with your campsite management or review posted regulations regarding the use of electric heaters.
Some sites may have restrictions due to safety concerns or electrical capacity limitations.
In addition to campsite rules, follow local fire safety codes and manufacturer recommendations.
This ensures not only compliance but also that you are minimizing risks in your camping environment.
Conclusion
After synthesizing technical data and user feedback, the Dreo Space Heater emerges as our top recommendation.
Buy If:
- You have access to a stable AC outlet for power.
- You want quick, efficient, and quiet heating in a small space.
- You value modern features like a digital thermostat and remote control.
- You need built-in safety features like tip-over and overheat protection.
- You prioritize energy efficiency with an ECO mode.
Don't Buy If:
- You need a heater designed for outdoor or rugged camping conditions.
- You plan to camp where no AC power is available.
- You require a heater built to withstand harsh, weather-exposed environments.
- You need a unit capable of heating large or open camping areas.
Its advanced smart features, precise temperature controls, quiet operation, and robust safety mechanisms make it the ideal choice for campers who need reliable, portable warmth in challenging conditions.
While many camping situations may be comfortable with proper insulation and layered clothing, extreme cold or extended camping trips may require supplementary heat.
In such cases, always check that your campsite permits electric heaters and that your power source—whether it’s a campsite hookup, battery, or generator—can support the load.
Moreover, while using a heater, practice proper placement, effective cord management, and vigilant monitoring to make the most out of your heater while safeguarding your campsite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is an electric heater ok in a tent?
Yes—if it’s specifically designed with robust safety features (such as tip-over sensors, overheat protection, and cool-touch exteriors) and used following all manufacturer guidelines.
Always exercise caution and never leave it unattended.
How to heat a tent with electricity?
Use a compact, indoor-rated electric heater on a stable, nonflammable surface with adequate clearance from tent walls and bedding.
Ensure you have a reliable power source (like a campsite hookup or suitable battery pack) and use outdoor-rated cords or adapters.
Is there a solar powered heater?
Solar-powered heaters do exist, though they’re less common and typically offer lower output.
They are usually designed for supplementary heating rather than as a standalone solution for a tent.
Fun Fact: Every electrical heater is a solar-powered heater if you use solar panels to power it.
Do solar heaters really work?
Solar heaters can work well in direct sunlight, providing eco-friendly warmth.
However, their effectiveness drops in cloudy or shaded conditions, so they’re best used as a secondary heating option.
Do sand heaters work?
Sand heaters operate by absorbing and slowly radiating heat, but their output is inconsistent and generally insufficient for reliably warming a tent.
They are not typically recommended for camping as a primary heating solution.