Have you ever woken up freezing in your car, wishing you had a cozy campfire right there? Car camping is awesome, but cold nights can quickly ruin the fun! Imagine shivering under your blankets, unable to sleep because your teeth are chattering. That’s a car camping nightmare we want to help you avoid.
Choosing the right heater for car camping is tricky. There are so many different types! You need to think about safety, how much space you have, and how long the heater will last. Picking the wrong one can lead to wasted money, dangerous situations, or a night of misery. We’re here to make it easier.
In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about car camping heaters. We’ll explore different types, discuss important features, and share tips to stay warm and safe. By the end, you’ll be ready to choose the perfect heater and enjoy cozy car camping adventures all year long! So, let’s dive in and warm things up!
Our Top 5 Heater For Car Camping Recommendations at a Glance
Image | Product | Rating | Links |
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Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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Lasko MyHeat Personal Mini Space Heater for Home with Single Speed | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX 4 | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy 3800-BTU | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Lerat Electric Space Heater | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Heater For Car Camping Detailed Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater
Rating: 9.1/10
The Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater is a small, portable heater. It’s made for your desk, office, or even a tent. This mini heater is lightweight and easy to move. It puts out 500W of heat and has safety features. It also has tip-over protection. This means it will shut off if it falls over. It’s a good choice if you need a little extra warmth.
What We Like:
- It’s small and easy to put on a desk.
- The heater is light, so you can move it easily.
- It heats up quickly, so you feel warm fast.
- It has a safety feature that turns it off if it tips over.
What Could Be Improved:
- The heater only puts out 500W. It may not heat a large room.
- Some users may want a heater with more power.
This Amazon Basics heater is a good choice for small spaces. It is safe and easy to use. It is a great option for anyone needing a personal heater.
2. Lasko MyHeat Personal Mini Space Heater for Home with Single Speed
Rating: 8.6/10
The Lasko MyHeat Personal Mini Space Heater is a tiny heater for your personal space. It’s only 6 inches tall and uses just 200 watts of power. This little heater is great for keeping you warm at your desk or at home. It’s easy to use and won’t take up much space.
What We Like:
- Keeps you warm at work or at home.
- Small size is perfect for your desk.
- Easy to use, just plug it in!
- Safe with overheat protection.
- It’s quiet and won’t bother others.
- Comes in fun colors.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only heats your small, personal space.
The Lasko MyHeat is a great way to stay warm. It is perfect for keeping you comfortable whether you are at work or at home.
3. Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX 4
Rating: 8.8/10
Stay warm with the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater! This red and black heater is safe to use indoors. It gives off sun-like warmth with its advanced infrared technology. You can use it in spaces up to 225 sq. ft. It’s perfect for camping, workshops, job sites, patios and more.
What We Like:
- Provides powerful, radiant heat with adjustable settings.
- Includes improved safety features, like a tip-over switch.
- Starts quickly with a durable Piezo igniter.
- Easy to use with a simple start knob and fold-down handle.
- Fuel-efficient, providing hours of warmth.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires specific replacement parts from the factory.
The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater is a great choice for staying warm. It is a safe and easy way to heat up different spaces.
4. Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy 3800-BTU
Rating: 9.2/10
Stay warm with the Mr. Heater Little Buddy! This portable propane heater is great for small spaces. It puts out 3,800 BTUs of heat. It can warm up areas up to 95 square feet. It’s safe to use indoors thanks to its safety features. It is perfect for camping, job sites, or just staying cozy on a cool day.
What We Like:
- It’s safe! It has an automatic shut-off for low oxygen. It also shuts off if it tips over.
- It’s easy to use. Just press the on/off button.
- It is quiet and doesn’t smell.
- It is easy to carry.
- It can work at high altitudes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The propane cylinder is not included.
- It’s only for small spaces.
- It can only run for a few hours on one propane cylinder.
The Mr. Heater Little Buddy is a good choice if you need a small, safe, and portable heater. It is a great way to stay warm in various situations.
5. Lerat Electric Space Heater
Rating: 9.3/10
Stay warm this winter with the Lerat Electric Space Heater! This small, black heater is perfect for indoor use. It is a mini personal heater that works great in an office, on your desk, or even while camping. It has two heat settings and heats up quickly. The heater is easy to use and has safety features to keep you safe.
What We Like:
- Heats up fast with ceramic coils.
- Has two heat settings: warm and high.
- Small and easy to move around.
- Safe! It has overheat and tilt protection.
- Simple to use with only one switch.
- Works quietly, great for sleeping or working.
- Perfect for small spaces like offices and dorm rooms.
What Could Be Improved:
- Only works with 110V to 125V outlets.
- You need to keep doors and windows closed for best results.
The Lerat Electric Space Heater is a good choice for anyone needing a small, portable heater. It’s safe, easy to use, and keeps you warm in cold weather. You will enjoy this product.
Cozy Camping: Your Guide to Car Camping Heaters
Are you ready for a warm and comfy car camping trip? A good heater makes all the difference! This guide helps you choose the best heater for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a car camping heater, think about these important things:
- Fuel Type: Heaters use different fuels. Propane heaters are common. They are easy to find. Kerosene heaters burn a different fuel. Electric heaters need a power source.
- Heat Output (BTUs): BTU stands for British Thermal Units. It shows how much heat the heater makes. A higher BTU means more heat. Pick a BTU level that fits your car’s size.
- Safety Features: Safety is super important! Look for features like automatic shut-off. This turns the heater off if it tips over. Also, carbon monoxide detectors are a must.
- Portability: How easy is it to move the heater? Look for a heater that’s lightweight and has a handle. This makes it easier to take with you.
- Run Time: How long will the heater run on one tank of fuel? This depends on the fuel tank size and how much heat it puts out.
- Ease of Use: Is the heater simple to turn on and off? Does it have clear instructions? A simple heater is best!
Important Materials
The materials used in a heater matter. They affect how well the heater works and how long it lasts:
- Metal: Metal parts are strong. They can handle high heat. Look for sturdy metal in the heater’s frame.
- Plastic: Plastic is often used for the outer casing. It protects the inner parts. Make sure the plastic is heat-resistant.
- Fuel Tank: The fuel tank should be made of strong metal. It needs to hold the fuel safely.
- Burner: The burner is where the fuel burns. It should be made of a durable metal. This helps the heater last.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a heater good or bad:
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making high-quality heaters. Research brands before you buy.
- Reviews: Read what other campers say about the heater. Real user reviews give you good information.
- Price: Price can be a factor. But, a cheaper heater might not be the best. Sometimes, paying a bit more gets you a better product.
- Build Quality: How well is the heater put together? Look for a heater with solid construction. This means it will last longer.
- Warranty: A good warranty protects your purchase. It shows the company believes in its product.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your heater? Here are some things to consider:
- Car Size: A small car needs a small heater. A larger car needs a more powerful heater.
- Camping Location: If you camp in cold places, you need a heater that puts out a lot of heat.
- Ventilation: Always make sure your car has good ventilation. This prevents carbon monoxide buildup.
- Use Cases: Use the heater to stay warm while sleeping. Warm up your car before getting out of your sleeping bag. You can also use it to cook simple meals.
- Safety First: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Never leave a heater unattended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best fuel for car camping heaters?
A: Propane is a very popular choice. It’s easy to find and use. Electric heaters work well if you have a power source.
Q: Are car camping heaters safe?
A: Yes, if you use them correctly. Always follow the safety guidelines. Make sure the heater has safety features like automatic shut-off.
Q: How do I prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?
A: Always make sure your car has good ventilation. Use a carbon monoxide detector. Never use a heater in a completely closed space.
Q: How much heat do I need?
A: It depends on your car size and the temperature outside. Check the BTU rating on the heater. A higher BTU means more heat.
Q: Can I use a heater to cook?
A: Some heaters have a flat top that you can use for simple cooking. But, check the heater’s instructions first.
Q: Where should I place the heater in my car?
A: Place the heater on a flat surface. Keep it away from flammable items. Make sure it’s stable.
Q: How do I maintain my car camping heater?
A: Clean your heater after each use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Store it in a dry place.
Q: What is a BTU?
A: BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. It measures how much heat a heater puts out. Higher BTUs mean more heat.
Q: What is a carbon monoxide detector?
A: A carbon monoxide detector alerts you to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. It can save your life.
Q: What if my heater stops working?
A: First, check the fuel level. Then, check the battery (if applicable). Read the user manual and try troubleshooting tips. If it still doesn’t work, contact the manufacturer.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!