Car camping can be a great way to explore the great outdoors without having to lug around too much gear. But while you may be able to get away with a few layers of clothing and a sleeping bag, a portable heater is a must-have when temperatures start to drop. Luckily, there are plenty of great options available that can help keep you and your car warm and cozy during your camping trip.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Portable Heater for Car Camping
Before you start shopping for a portable heater for car camping, it’s important to have an understanding of the features and benefits of different models. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the best one for you:
Size
Size is an important factor to consider when selecting a portable heater for car camping. You want to make sure the heater you choose is small enough to fit in your car and won’t take up too much space. If you plan to use the heater in a tent, you’ll want to make sure it’s lightweight and easy to carry. If you’re planning on using it in a vehicle, you’ll want to make sure it won’t take up too much power.
Fuel Source
Another important factor to consider is the fuel source. Most portable heaters for car camping run on either propane or kerosene. Propane is easy to find and relatively affordable, but it can be messy to use and not as efficient as kerosene. Kerosene is more efficient, but it’s more expensive and harder to find. Be sure to consider the availability and cost of the fuel source before making your decision.
Heat Output and Run Time
When choosing a portable heater for car camping, it’s important to consider the heat output and run time. Most models have adjustable heat settings, so you can choose the one that’s best suited for your camping needs. Make sure to check the run time and make sure it will last long enough for your camping trip.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority when using a portable heater. Look for models that have automatic shut-off features, flame sensors, and other safety features. This will help ensure that your heater is safely and efficiently used.
Our Top Picks for the Best Portable Heaters for Car Camping in 2023
Now that we’ve gone over some of the things to consider when choosing a portable heater for car camping, let’s take a look at our top picks for the best models in 2023. All of the heaters on this list come with high ratings, great features, and are relatively affordable.
1. Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater
The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater is one of the most popular portable heaters for car camping. It runs on propane and is easy to use. It has an adjustable heat output up to 9,000 BTUs and will run up to 3.5 hours on a single 16.4-ounce propane cylinder. It also has a safety shut-off switch and a sensor to prevent accidental tipping.
2. Lasko Electric Portable Heater
The Lasko Electric Portable Heater is a great choice if you’re looking for a reliable and affordable option. This heater runs on a standard 120-volt outlet and has two heat settings. It also has an adjustable thermostat and a fan-only setting. The Lasko Electric Portable Heater is lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for car camping.
3. Heatstar Radiant Heater
The Heatstar Radiant Heater is a great option if you’re looking for a kerosene-powered heater. It has a heat output of up to 10,000 BTUs and can run up to 18 hours on a single gallon of kerosene. It also has a tip-over switch and a safety shut-off switch for added safety.
Conclusion
When it comes to portable heaters for car camping, there are plenty of great options available. Be sure to consider the size, fuel source, heat output, and safety features when choosing the best one for your needs. Our top picks for the best portable heaters for car camping in 2023 are the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater, the Lasko Electric Portable Heater, and the Heatstar Radiant Heater. All three models provide reliable heat and are relatively affordable.
Tags: camping, heater, portable