Top 7 Battery Powered Heaters for Camping in 2025: Stay Warm Anywhere

When it comes to finding a safe and effective supplemental heating source for your home or outdoor adventures, battery-powered heaters are among the most sought-after options. Tent heaters are more popular than you might think, especially for those looking to camp year round and through the colder months. They are small, compact, and easy to carry around and make camping in the colder months of the year much easier and safer. Picking one of the best battery-powered tent heaters isn’t easy, however. These appliances retail in a wide array of price points, styles, and power levels – and thanks to the sheer number of choices available in the market, the ostensibly simple selection process can quickly become a seemingly impossible task.

Top 7 Battery-Powered Heaters for Camping in 2025

Below is a curated list of the top seven battery-powered heaters and alternatives for camping in 2025, focusing on portability, safety, and efficiency based on real-world testing and user feedback.

1. DEWALT DXH12B Portable Propane Heater

The DEWALT DXH12B is the closest to the true battery-operated heater of all these heaters. This heater uses batteries (20V MAX or FlexVolt batteries), but it only uses them for extra features like powering 3 USB plugs, LED lights, and the fan. The main power is still generated by propane. This is one of the most capable battery-powered heater alternatives; it can produce up to 12,000 BTU heat when running on 100% capacity. At the lowest setting, the 1 lb propane tank can provide heat for up to 7 hours. Of course, you can always bring a 20 lbs propane tank with you on camping and refuel the DEWALT DXH12B 20 times. Due to high heating output and indoor safety features, the DEWALT DXH12B is the closest to the best battery-operated tent heater. It has a factory-installed Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) and a thermoelectric safety valve. Both of these make using DEWALT DXH12B inside the tent much safer. Check it on Amazon.

• Pros: High heating output (12,000 BTU), safety features like ODS and thermoelectric valve, portable with USB chargers and LED light.
• Cons: Weighs 14 lbs empty, 15 lbs full; propane-based, not purely battery-powered; battery only powers auxiliary features.

2. Mr. Heater MH18B Portable Propane Heater

As you can see, the tank/bottle that contains the propane is neatly attached to the heater. That is a 1 lb propane tank lasting up to 7 hours on the lowest heating setting. As you might imagine, when going camping, bringing a 20 lbs propane tank with you is smart to easily and quickly refuel the Mr. Heater MH18B heater. With below 10 lbs total weight (9 kg, to be exact), it is very portable. If there were a battery-operated heater for camping, it should have pretty much the exact specifications as the Mr. Heater MH18B. Check it on Amazon.

• Pros: Lightweight at under 10 lbs, up to 7 hours of heat on a 1 lb propane tank, highly portable.
• Cons: Propane-based, not battery-powered; lacks built-in light; runtime drops to 2-3 hours at highest setting.

3. KSFJZF Heated Blanket with Power Bank

Unlike your grandma’s heated blanket, which is great for home use, this one is built for adventure thanks to the built-in battery pack. It’s a rechargeable battery operated portable heater for camping! This option is ideal for those who want to wrap up while hanging out anywhere. It will work great anywhere at the campsite, whether you want it across your lap while eating dinner, or inside your sleeping bag in the tent. On the highest setting at 149 F, which will basically scorch you if left on for too long, it will run for 3 hours. On the lowest setting at 113 F, perfect for most situations, it will provide battery-powered heat for up to 7 hours. Another reason this is ideal for camping is that it’s machine washable. Check it on Amazon.

• Pros: Truly battery-powered with a 16,000mAh power bank, machine washable, up to 7 hours runtime, soft and portable.
• Cons: Limited to personal heating, not suitable for heating entire tents, high setting may be too hot.

4. BioLite BaseCharge 1500 with Lasko Personal Space Heater

In a hurry? The best battery powered heater for camping is a BaseCharge 1500 by BioLite paired with the Personal Space Heater by Lasko. This combines a high capacity battery with a low watt space heater, so you can heat a camping tent or small space for the longest period of time. Additionally, it boasts advanced safety features such as over-voltage and over-temperature protection, which are critical when running high-power devices such as battery powered tent heaters. Importantly, BioLite has built a reputation for designing environmentally friendly, sustainable products. The BaseCharge 1500 aligns with this ethos as it can be recharged via solar panels, providing an eco-friendly alternative for generating power while you are in the great outdoors. Check BioLite on Amazon | Check Lasko on Amazon.

• Pros: Eco-friendly with solar recharge option, high-capacity battery, safety features like over-voltage protection.
• Cons: Expensive combo, requires separate battery and heater, limited runtime for high-watt heaters.

5. Bluetti EB55 Portable Power Station with 200W Heater

What I like about this one for battery powered camping heaters is that it is relatively affordable and will power a 200W heater for over two hours on full blast. And if you want to increase the usage time, you can use it during sunlight with a small solar panel. It also has a 700W inverter, which means it can easily run a 500W portable heater. But since the battery capacity is only 537Wh, it will only last about an hour on full blast. That’s just the reality of portable power stations supplying power for electric heat while camping. Check it on Amazon.

• Pros: Affordable, supports solar charging, can run low-watt heaters for over two hours.
• Cons: Limited battery capacity (537Wh), only one hour runtime for 500W heaters, not ideal for large spaces.

6. Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Propane Heater

The best part about these portable heaters is that they don’t need batteries. The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy operates using propane fuel and does not rely on external power sources. If you’re camping, you’re on the go. So the compact and portable design of the buddy heater is perfect for camping trips, outdoor excursions, or any overnight trip where you may be in a tent. The fold-down handles make it easy to move around and store without having to spend a lot of time disassembling. This heater is extremely powerful and will heat up your tent with no problem and you can use it to heat an RV. Check it on Amazon.

• Pros: No batteries needed, powerful heating for tents and RVs, portable with fold-down handles.
• Cons: Propane-based, potential moisture buildup, requires ventilation to avoid condensation.

7. EcoFlow Delta 2 with Low-Watt Heater

The Delta 2 by EcoFlow is a great option for anyone who prioritizes a fast recharge time. Pair that battery with a small electric space heater, and you’ll have the perfect combination for a battery powered space heater for camping. Check it on Amazon.

• Pros: Fast recharge time, reliable for low-watt heaters, versatile for other electronics.
• Cons: High initial cost, limited runtime for high-watt heaters, requires separate heater purchase.

Comparison Table of Top Battery-Powered Heaters

Testing Scenarios and Performance

Real-World Testing Insights

During our research on the different methods of heating a tent, we found lots of questions about alternatives for propane heaters. To evaluate these heaters, we simulated typical camping conditions:

• Scenario 1: Small Tent (2-4 Person) The KSFJZF Heated Blanket excelled in personal heating, maintaining 113¡ãF for 7 hours in a small tent. The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy heated the tent to a comfortable level within minutes but required ventilation to prevent condensation.
• Scenario 2: Medium Tent (6-8 Person) The DEWALT DXH12B and Mr. Heater MH18B were tested in a 6-person tent. Both provided ample heat (12,000 and 18,000 BTU, respectively), but the DEWALT’s safety features like ODS made it preferable for overnight use.
• Scenario 3: Remote Camping with No Power The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 paired with a Lasko heater was tested in a remote setting with solar charging. It powered a low-watt heater for several hours, ideal for eco-conscious campers.

Safety Considerations

Look for camping heaters with a bigger base, which makes them more stable, and for safety features such as a tip-over switch or cool outer housing. Tents are damp places, especially in winter, so it’s important to keep your heater off the damp ground and make sure there are no exposed wires inside that could be damaged by humid air. Stand-alone heaters designed for bathrooms can meet this requirement.

Buying Guide for Battery-Powered Heaters

Key Factors to Consider

• Portability: A small, compact heater will also be easier to pack in the car and transport on your holiday. Consider models under 10 lbs for backpacking.
• Power Source: Battery-powered heaters are limited by capacity, so propane or hybrid models may be more practical for longer trips.
• Safety Features: Prioritize models with tip-over protection, oxygen depletion sensors, and overheat shut-off.
• Heat Output: The heat output, or amount of warmth generated, is measured using BTU for propane or butane heaters and wattage for corded electric heaters. In all cases, the higher the number the more heat is produced.
• Runtime: Look for heaters with at least 5-7 hours of runtime to cover a night’s sleep.

Steps to Choose the Right Heater

• Assess your tent size and insulation level to determine required heat output.
• Check campsite power availability; remote sites may require propane or high-capacity batteries.
• Read user reviews on trusted platforms like Amazon or OutdoorGearLab.
• Test the heater at home to ensure compatibility with your power source.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are battery-powered heaters safe for tent camping?

Battery-powered heaters are generally safer than propane heaters when equipped with safety features like tip-over and overheat protection. However, ensure proper ventilation and avoid placing them near flammable materials. Models like the KSFJZF Heated Blanket are low-risk due to their design.

How long can a battery-powered heater run?

Runtime varies by battery capacity and heater wattage. For example, the Bluetti EB55 with a 200W heater lasts over 2 hours, while the KSFJZF Heated Blanket runs up to 7 hours on its lowest setting.

Can I use a battery-powered heater in a remote campsite?

Yes, but you’ll need a high-capacity power station like the BioLite BaseCharge 1500 or EcoFlow Delta 2, ideally paired with solar panels for recharging. Propane heaters like the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy are more practical for extended remote trips.

What’s the best heater for a large tent?

For large tents (6-8 people), propane heaters like the DEWALT DXH12B or Mr. Heater MH18B are recommended due to their high BTU output (12,000-18,000). Battery-powered options like the BioLite combo struggle to heat larger spaces efficiently.

How do I maintain a battery-powered heater?

Charge batteries fully before trips, store in a dry place, and clean heaters regularly to remove dust. For propane hybrids, check tanks for leaks and store them upright.

Conclusion

Battery-powered heaters for camping in 2025 offer a range of options, from fully battery-operated heated blankets to propane-battery hybrids. The DEWALT DXH12B stands out for its safety and power, while the KSFJZF Heated Blanket is ideal for personal warmth. Consider your tent size, power access, and safety needs when choosing the best model for your next adventure. Stay warm and camp safely!