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.
We understand that this may not be the ideal combination for everyone, which is why we’ve assembled a complete list of our favorites below. There’s a variety of different brands and sizes, so you can find the perfect battery and battery operated space heater that works for you.
While winter camping can be a fun outdoor adventure, it can also be difficult to stay warm. Don’t let the cold temperature hold you back from enjoying some fresh air, and instead implement all the different ways you can stay warm in a tent. During our research on the different methods of heating a tent, we found lots of questions about alternatives for propane heaters. We’ve already discussed solar heaters for camping (..do they even exist?), so let’s cover what it means to have a portable battery operated heater for camping.
To further explain battery powered heaters, you need a battery and a portable space heater. For the battery, we highly recommend getting a high quality portable power bank like the BioLite below. It’s super highly rated, has a long warranty period, and provides plenty of power for all your electronics at camp. Pair that battery with a small electric space heater, and you’ll have the perfect combination for a battery powered space heater for camping.
Our #1 Recommendation: BaseCharge 1500 by BioLite
Affordability: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
Features: 5/5
The BaseCharge 1500 by BioLite is a high capacity battery that works hard to run your portable heater (and any other electronics) for hours on end. Plus, it’s a great price for amount of watt hours it offers. Full Review
Our #2 Recommendation: Delta 2 by EcoFlow
Affordability: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
Features: 5/5
The Delta 2 by EcoFlow is a great option for anyone who prioritizes a fast recharge time. It can go from 0% to 80% in only 50 minutes, and has the longest cycle life on this list. Full Review
Table of Contents
Watts vs. Heaters
In order to understand a portable battery operated heater, we need to look at how watts work. Simply put, a watt is a unit of power and is the common standard analysis of power consumption in the USA. One watt is a small amount of power, but put them together and they can power more. For example, a standard wall outlet is 1800 watts and you can plug in multiple things or even a power strip.
When talking about a space heater, most of them use upwards of 1,500W, which is a significant amount when a lot of portable power stations have a similar amount. If a power station was rated 1500W, that’s how much power it can provide on one charge. So a 1500W power bank could provide enough power for 1 hour of use of a 1500W space heater. That’s not that much when it comes to camping in the cold. That being said, there’s smaller electric heaters that would be perfect for tent camping, and their smaller wattage requirements means a portable battery could run them for several hours at a time.
All that being said, if you are running a small electric space heater on a battery we’d recommend at least a 1000W power station coupled with a camping tent heater around 100W to make sure that you can run your portable space heater all night long. If you’d like to have a bigger tent space heater for a large space or want to run it multiple nights without recharging, you might go with a 1500 or 2000W power station.
Editor’s Picks for Best Battery Operated Heaters for Camping
If you want to use a portable power station with a space heater for camping to create battery operated heaters, we’ve put together our favorite suggestions for power stations that would work perfectly for the situation. Simply pair your battery of choice with a small electric space heater and you have a battery powered heater. Our top pick for a space heater is this one, or you can check out more options on our post best electric tent heaters.
Editor’s Choice – BaseCharge 1500 by BioLite
This BioLite BaseCharge 1500 Portable Power Station is the ultimate power source for your camping needs, particularly when it comes to fueling your battery-powered heater in chilly conditions. It’s high capacity so it works well with lots of different devices, plus it has enough juice to run your space heater for hours on end.
One of the key features that makes the BaseCharge 1500 an unrivaled choice for camping is its sheer power capacity. This power station boasts an impressive 1521Wh of energy, allowing it to sustain a battery-powered heater for a significant duration, ensuring your camping tent stays warm even in the bitterest of cold nights.
The power capacity not only keeps your battery operated heater for camping running but also enables you to power other essential gadgets such as lights, smartphones, or even laptops, making your camping experience much more comfortable and convenient.
What truly sets the BaseCharge 1500 apart, though, is its multi-functional usability. This portable power station has an array of ports, including a wireless charging surface, 3 AC outlets, 5 USB ports, and a 12V car port, allowing it to charge or power multiple devices simultaneously. The included USB-C PD input/output port enables fast charging and powering of modern devices. You can charge your portable space heater, smartphone, laptop, and LED lights all at once, making this power station a veritable powerhouse.
The BaseCharge 1500 doesn’t compromise on efficiency and safety either. The built-in informative digital display helps you keep tabs on the power usage and battery status, ensuring you never run out of power unexpectedly. 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. You can use it with BioLite’s SolarPanel 50 or 100 for a self-sufficient, renewable power solution.
This unit is also available in 600W if you want to size down to save some money, but keep in mind that it won’t power your devices for as long.
About The Brand
BioLite is working hard to provide 20 million people with access to clean energy and to avoid 3 million tons of CO2 emissions by the end of 2025.
Specifications
- Capacity: 1521 Wh
- Cell Chemistry: Lithium-ion battery
- Recharge Time (AC Adapter): 13.5 hours
- Recharge Time (AC Adapter + USB-C): 8 hours
- Recharge Time (Solar Panels 100×4): 4 hours
- Dimensions: 14.4 x 12.2 x 8.2 inches
- Weight: 28 lbs. 8 oz.
- Cycle Life: 1000
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros
- 2 Year Warranty
- Lightweight and portable
- High capacity battery is like having a wall-outlet on the go
- Eco-friendly brand
- Available in a smaller capacity for a lower price tag
Cons
- Slow recharge time
DELTA 2 Portable Power Station by EcoFlow
Embark on your wilderness adventure with our top pick for quick recharging: the EcoFlow Delta 2 Portable Power Station. This robust unit doesn’t just stand out for its impressive power capacity but also sets the standard with its remarkably fast recharge rate, which charges from 0% to 80% charged in a little as 50 minutes.
The unique selling point and our favorite feature of the EcoFlow Delta 2 is its record-setting recharge speed. This power station is capable of going from 0% to 80% charge in just about an hour when plugged into a wall socket, and a full charge in just 1.6 hours.
This super-fast recharge capability ensures that you spend less time waiting for the battery to fill up and more time enjoying your outdoor activities. It’s a game-changer in terms of efficiency, making it ideal for on-the-go campers.
The EcoFlow Delta 2 takes pride in an abundant energy storage of 1024Wh. This energy reservoir ensures your camping space heater spreads warmth through your camping tent on the chilliest of nights. But more than just heating, the Delta 2 can efficiently fuel a multitude of devices, bringing modern conveniences right to your campsite, no matter how remote.
If you need more power, you can add on a Delta 2 Extra Battery, which has all the power without the extra costs associated with having a screen and all the outputs. Double the power without doubling the price!
Specifications
- Capacity: 1024 Wh
- Cell Chemistry: Lithium-ion battery
- Recharge Time (AC Adapter): 1 hour
- Dimensions: 14.7 x 11 x 8.3 inches
- Weight: 27 lbs.
- Cycle Life: 3000 to 80% capacity
- Warranty: 5 years
Pros
- Fastest recharge time on this list – 0% to 80% in just under an hour!
- Highest cycle life on this list
- 5 Year Warranty
- Touch screen display
- Available add on battery to expand your output
Cons
- Heavy for the amount of watts it offers
Explorer 1000 by Jackery
The Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station offers an impressive blend of powerful performance, diverse output options, and environmentally-friendly charging capabilities. Its ability to reliably power a range of devices, including battery-powered heaters, makes it an excellent addition to any camping gear collection.
The hallmark of the Jackery Explorer 1000 lies in its energy capacity. A staggering 1002Wh storage capability ensures your camping heater stays functional even during the most frosty nights, providing a comforting warmth that makes your outdoor experience much more enjoyable.
One of the best things about the Jackery Explorer 1000 is its wide range of power outlets that can charge up to 8 devices at once. Equipped with three conventional AC sockets, two USB-C outlets, two USB-A sockets, and a DC car socket, this power station can accommodate and power an assortment of devices. This wide range of power output points gives unparalleled flexibility and ensures all your equipment, from battery operated heaters to smartphones, are well-served.
The Jackery Explorer 1000 also includes an easy-to-use LED monitor, which provides real-time updates of the battery level, power input, and output. This feature helps you effectively regulate your power usage and circumvent any sudden power cut-offs.
If you decide you want more watts, Jackery also offers this unit in 1500 and 3000 options, which would greatly increase the amount of runtime for an electric space heater.
Specifications
- Capacity: 1002 Wh
- Cell Chemistry: Lithium-ion battery
- Recharge Time (AC Adapter): 7.5 hours
- Recharge Time (12V): 14 hours
- Recharge Time (Solar Panels 100×2): 10 hours
- Dimensions: 13.1(h) x 11.1(d) x 9.2(w) inches
- Weight: 22.04 lbs.
- Cycle Life: 500 to 80% capacity
- Warranty: 2 + 1 Years
Pros
- Can power up to eight devices at once
- Quick recharge time
- Ample energy for a small space heater
- Extended warranty when you purchase direct from Jackery
- Available in larger capacities
Cons
- One of the lowest cycle lives on this list
Portable Power Station 1000W by Grecell
As we round up our top portable power stations, we cannot overlook the value-for-money proposition presented by the Grecell Portable Power Station 1000. This budget-friendly power station packs a punch, offering campers a cost-effective power solution for heating needs and more during their outdoor escapades.
While the Grecell Power Station 1000 may not boast the fastest recharge time, its affordability makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious adventurers. The extended recharge period is a small compromise when considering the overall cost savings that this power station offers. For those who are planning leisurely, relaxed camping trips where time is not a pressing issue, the Grecell Portable Power Station 1000 serves as an economical and practical choice.
Despite its lower price point, the Grecell Power Station 1000 does not compromise on versatility. The power station is furnished with an array of output options, including four AC outlets, two USB-C ports, and four USB-A ports, capable of powering a wide range of devices from battery operated heaters to handheld devices. This broad spectrum of power outlets enhances its utility, adding convenience to your camping experience.
Despite a longer recharge time and shorter cycle life, its cost-efficiency and capabilities make it a worthy contender for those seeking a budget-friendly solution for their outdoor adventures.
Specifications
- Capacity: 999 Wh
- Cell Chemistry: Lithium-ion battery
- Recharge Time (AC Adapter): 7-8 hours
- Recharge Time (100W Solar Panels): 6-9 hours
- Recharge Time (12V): 9-11 hours
- Dimensions: 11.6 x 7.9 x 7.9 inches
- Weight: 17.8 lbs.
- Warranty: 2 Years
- Cycle Life: 500-600 cycles
Pros
- Most affordable option on this list
- Can power 10 devices at the same time
- Wireless charging pad on top surface
Cons
- One of the lowest cycle lives on this list
Comparison Table
| Model Name | Brand | Watts Hours | Weight | Cycle Life | Recharge Time (AC Adapter) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BaseCharge 1500 | BioLite | 1521 Wh | 28.5 lbs. | 1000 | 13.5 hours |
| Delta 2 | EcoFlow | 1024 Wh | 27 lbs. | 3000 | 1 hour |
| Explorer 1000 | Jackery | 1002 Wh | 22.04 lbs. | 500 | 7.5 hours |
| Portable Battery 1000W | Grecell | 999 Wh | 17.8 lbs. | 500-600 | 7-8 hours |
Is an Electric Heater Safe for a Tent?
Of all the portable heater options for tent camping, the safest option is an space heater that runs on electricity because it does not produce any flame or carbon monoxide. That being said, you still should never sleep with a space heater on or leave it unattended. Instead, run it before bed, then turn it off when you go to bed. While it’s running, you can give it some ventilation by opening an upper flap or cracking a mesh window.
Because an electric heater for camping isn’t necessarily the most efficient way to heat a tent, you could also consider using a portable propane heater. These will provide more warmth, and several are labeled safe for indoor use. Even if you are skeptical about the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, you could opt to only run it while awake in a well ventilated space while using a carbon monoxide detector to decrease your changes of having any issues.
Related Post: Can You Safely Put a Mr. Buddy Heater in a Tent?
Best Battery Operated Heater Alternatives
If you want to go a different route, there are some options for a battery operated heater alternative. Overall, the safest method is using an electric heater with the portable battery from above, but there’s other options that are safe and effective as well.
As already mentioned above, one of the best alternatives for battery operated heaters is a propane tent heater. While they do run some additional risk, you can follow certain steps to minimize the chances of anything happening while still enjoying their hot air. There are also a few other options to consider for alternatives:
- Other Heating Methods: you could heat your tent with a candle, or use one of the other top portable heaters for a tent.
- Insulate your Tent: we’ve put together a 7-step guide on how to properly insulate your tent for cold weather camping. Most of the options are lightweight and all of them are quite affordable, while a couple just require some good ol’ hard work (like insulating the ground under your camping tent with natural materials). Do them all to maximize insulation or only do a few to still make large improvements.
- Winter sleep system: purchase and carry sleeping bags that are comfort rated for at least 10°F below the expected temperatures, and pair them with a sleeping bag liner that insulate the bag even more. Pair this with a high R-value sleeping pad or cot, and you’ll be golden!
- Warm Clothes: pack heavy and warm clothes such as jackets, head covers/beanies, gloves, winter boots, and heavy winter pants like ski pants or waterproof fleece lined hiking pants. You should always bring along or wear thermals under these layers, as a simple extra layer of clothing can make a huge difference.
- Heated Gear: you can combine your warm clothes with the top pieces of heated camping gear, which includes clothing, heated camping chairs, and even a heated blanket.
- Hot Water Bottle: a classic trick and personal favorite is the hot water bottle in your sleeping bag. Simply use a heavy duty plastic water bottle like a Nalgene, boil water right before bed, and store it in the bottle. Then, put the water bottle in or around your sleeping bag while you are getting ready for bed, then cuddle it for warmth while you fall asleep.
Related Post: How to Keep Your Water Bottle From Freezing (4 Easy Ways)
- Hand and Foot Warmers: hand and foot warmers are relatively inexpensive packets that are perfect for your pockets, gloves, and shoes to keep your digits warmer. Though less commonly found in stores, there are companies that make larger heat packs that are meant for your back and larger body parts. You should have these on hand anyways (especially in case of emergency), and you should use them when you feel the need. You can also stick a foot warmer to the back of your phone to help keep the battery warmer so it doesn’t die as quickly.
FAQ
Is there such thing as a battery operated heater?
A battery operated heater does exist if you use a portable battery with a small electric heater, and they can work perfectly together to heat a smaller tent.
Is there a heater that runs on batteries?
In order to make a portable heater that runs on batteries, you have to pair a low watt electric heater (e.g., 200W or less) with a high quality portable power station that’s at least 1000W or more. This combination will let the space heater run for several hours and the battery can also recharge your small electronic devices.
Can a portable battery power a heater?
A portable battery can power a space heater quite easily if you have the right combination. You’ll need a low watt electric heater (200W or less) and pair it with a high watt power station that’s at least 1000W or more. Then, you could run the space heater for several hours at a time on a single charge.
Conclusion
Using one of the battery powered heaters can provide warmth for a small tent for hours on end, plus it’s safer than other heater options (like propane heaters). There’s no flame and no by-products (like carbon monoxide) to worry about, so you can heat your space worry free. Simply combine one of your favorite low watt space heaters with a portable power station and you will have a battery powered tent heater that can raise the temperature of your camping tent significantly.
Our #1 Recommendation: BioLite BaseCharge 1500
BioLite is easily the top brand for portable power stations and batteries, so we love their BaseCharge series. It has a good recharge time, high quality materials, and a great brand with a one year warranty. Combine it with a space heater to make one of the best heaters you could have.
Since 2017,Know Nothing Nomadshas cemented itself as the “approachable experts” in everything camping, hiking, climbing, and adventuring in the Great Outdoors.
With over 60 years of experience in the outdoors, we don’t just talk about outdoor gear or recommend a good hiking trail.
We USE the gear we talk about.We’ve hiked 1000’s of miles. We have camped 1000’s of nights in the wilderness. We have sent hundreds of boulders and projects.
We don’tjust know a few thingsabout the outdoors — WE EAT, SLEEP, AND BREATHE IT.
We are not journalists from a magazine telling someone else’s stories from behind a computer. We are the ACTUAL outdoorsmen that those people write about.
We are not a “gear lab” that runs tests on gear in life-like conditions.We are the seasoned, “trial-by-fire” experts who have taken the gear into the wilderness and USED IT.Read about our gear testing process here
We started Know Nothing Nomadsto share our passion and expertise with our readers to inspire, educate, and enable you to explore the outdoors in the way that we have. And you will be more equipped and capable than ever before with the knowledge you gain here guiding you along the way.
And the best part? We are real people that LOVE our readers and this community. If you need anything or have a question about any of the things we have to write about, just reach out. Normally, one of us can respond within 24 hours, sometimes within minutes. THAT is the approachable expert.
You should also know that advertising does not influence our gear reviews in any way, shape, or form, and it never will.
While we always focus our attention on gear that stands out to us—sometimes we discover that things aren’t up to our standards. This is exactly why we will always talk about the downfalls and compromises that we find while we are testing anything (If we find any).
