Best Roof Top Tent Heaters To Stay Warm Outdoors

There’s no feeling quite like peering out from your rooftop tent, perched high above, sipping a warm drink, and watching the sunrise paint the horizon. But let’s keep it real: when the sun sets, and the night’s chill rolls in, that lofty perch can feel more like an ice cube tray than a cozy canopy.

You’ve upgraded your camping game with a roof top tent (RTT), and it’s only right that you level up your warmth game too. Enter: the heaters for RTTs! 

But, which one to choose? I’m here to guide you through the sizzling world of RTT heaters. Prepare to turn your aerial abode from ‘brrr’ to ‘blissful’ in no time. Warm nights and even warmer memories, here we come!

How Do You Heat A Roof Top Tent? 4 Options

While out favorite way to heat a roof top tent is with a portable heater, there are a few different ways that you can warm up that RTT.

Electric Heater

One way to heat your roof top tent is by using an electric heater. These small, portable heaters run on electricity, and some require a significant amount of power. When camping at a site with electrical hookups, this can be a great option. Alternatively, you can plug the heater into your car battery or use a generator as a power source. Just be cautious about electricity consumption and choose an electric heater with safety features, such as auto shut-off when tipped over or overheating protection.

Propane Heater

Another option to consider is a propane heater, specifically, catalytic propane heaters. These produce very little or no carbon monoxide, making them a safer choice for your roof top tent. Keep in mind that propane heaters should have essential safety features like tip-over shut-off and carbon monoxide detectors to prevent accidents. As with any heater, never use it with an open flame inside your tent. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when using a propane heater.

Electric Blanket

If you prefer a more personal source of heat, electric blankets are a perfect choice. These heated blankets run on electricity and can be powered by your car battery, generator, or hooked up to a power source at the campsite. Remember to check the power requirements and wattage before using an electric blanket to avoid overloading your electrical system.

Electric Mattress Heater

An alternative to electric blankets is an electric mattress heater. These heaters are placed under your sleeping pad or mattress, providing warmth from the bottom up. Like electric blankets, they require a power source like a car battery, generator, or an electrical hookup. Make sure the mattress heater you choose is designed for camping use and always follow the instructions to ensure safe operation.

3 Best Roof Top Tent Heaters

As camping enthusiasts, we know that sleeping in a rooftop tent can be an amazing experience. However, when the temperature drops, it can quickly become uncomfortable or even dangerous. That’s where a good roof top tent heater comes in handy. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best roof top tent heaters to help you stay warm and cozy during your next camping trip.

STANLEY 5100 BTU, 1500W Heavy-Duty Electric Heater

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile space heater, the STANLEY 5100 BTU, 1500W Heavy-Duty Electric Heater is a great option.

Pros

• This heater is powerful and can heat up to 165 sq feet, making it a great space heater for a tent
• With two heat settings and an adjustable thermostat, you can customize the heat output to your liking.
• The heater heats up quickly, so you don’t have to wait long to start feeling the warmth.

Cons

• The heater is relatively small, so it may not be the best choice for larger rooms or outdoor spaces.
• The safety tip-over switch can be a bit sensitive and may shut off the heater if it’s bumped or moved.
• While the heater is relatively quiet, it’s not completely silent and may make some noise when it’s operating.

The STANLEY Electric Heater is lightweight and portable, making it easy to move around and use in different locations. The adjustable thermostat is a nice feature, as it allows you to customize the heat output to your liking. You’ll find that the heater heats up quickly and provides a good amount of warmth, even in colder temperatures.

One thing to note is that the safety tip-over switch can be a bit sensitive and may shut off the heater if it’s bumped or moved. And, while the heater is relatively quiet, it’s not completely silent and may make some noise when it’s operating.

Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater

If you’re looking for a reliable and portable heating solution for your camping trips, the Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The heater is incredibly easy to set up and use.
• It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and store.
• The swivel regulator gives you the ability to adapt usage from a disposable cylinder to a remote gas supply with the purchase of a hose and filter.

Cons

• The heater may shut off when operating at altitudes over 7,000 FT above sea level.
• The heater can only heat enclosed spaces up to 225 square feet.
• The product voltage arrange is 110V.

Campers who took the Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy on a camping trip were impressed with how quickly it heated up the tent. The compact size and fold-down handle made it easy to transport and store, and they appreciated the safety features such as the Oxygen Depletion Sensor and accidental tip-over safety shut-off.

One thing to keep in mind is that the heater may shut off when operating at altitudes over 7,000 FT above sea level, which could be a concern for some campers. Additionally, while the heater is powerful enough to heat enclosed spaces up to 225 square feet, it may not be sufficient for larger tents or outdoor areas.

Mr. Heater Little Buddy Propane Heater

If you’re looking for a portable propane heater for your camping trips, the Mr. Heater Little Buddy Propane Heater is a great option.

Pros

• Provides indoor-safe heat for small enclosed spaces like tents up to 95 sq. ft.
• Easy to use with simple on/off buttons and uses 1-pound disposable propane cylinder (not included).
• Lightweight and easy to carry.

Cons

• Only has one heat setting of 3,800 BTU/hr, which may be too much or too little for some users.
• Requires a vent area of 4 square inches minimum for adequate ventilation during operation.
• Tilt sensor may cause it to shut off if not placed on a stable surface.

Campers who used the Mr. Heater Little Buddy Propane Heater on a camping trip were impressed with its performance. It provided enough heat to keep the tent warm and cozy during the chilly nights. The on/off buttons were easy to use, and they appreciated that it used a 1-pound disposable propane cylinder, which was easy to replace.

One downside is that it only has one heat setting of 3,800 BTU/hr, which may be too much or too little for some users. Additionally, it requires a vent area of 4 square inches minimum for adequate ventilation during operation, which may be difficult to achieve in some RTT spaces. Also, the tilt sensor may cause it to shut off if not placed on a stable surface, so be sure to place it on a level surface.

Roof Top Tent Heater Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best roof top tent heater, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. Here are some of the most important factors to consider before making a purchase:

Size

The first thing to consider is the size of the heater. You want to make sure that the heater you choose is the right size for your tent. A heater that is too small won’t be able to keep you warm, while a heater that is too large will be too hot and waste energy. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the size of the tent that the heater is designed for.

Power Source

Another important factor to consider is the power source for the heater. Some heaters run on propane, while others run on electricity. Propane heaters are great for camping because they don’t require electricity, but they can be dangerous if not used properly. Electric heaters are safer, but they require a power source, which may not be available when camping.

Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when using a roof top tent heater. Look for heaters that have safety features such as automatic shut-off switches, tip-over protection, and oxygen depletion sensors. These features will help ensure that you stay safe while using the heater.

Price

Price is always a consideration when making a purchase. While you don’t want to skimp on safety or quality, you also don’t want to overspend on a heater that you don’t need. Look for a heater that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs.

Ease of Use

Finally, consider the ease of use of the heater. Look for heaters that are easy to set up and operate, with clear instructions and controls. The last thing you want is to struggle with a complicated heater when you’re trying to relax and enjoy your camping trip.

Heating Your Roof Top Tent Without Electricity

Need to warm up that RTT and don’t have electric power access? We’ve got some other options for you.

Use A Rooftop Tent Extreme Weather Cover

To keep your roof top tent warm during colder months, invest in an extreme weather cover. This additional layer provides extra insulation and protection from wind, snow, and cold temperatures. Make sure to choose one that is compatible with your specific tent model.

Get A Good Sleeping Bag

A quality, winter-rated sleeping bag is essential for staying warm during cold weather camping. Look for one with a temperature rating suitable for the conditions you’ll be facing, and consider a sleeping bag liner for added insulation and comfort. Oh, and if you’re taking your partner with you, a double sleeping bag is perfect for sharing body heat.

Wear Thermal Clothing

Layering up with thermal clothing is key to keeping warm in winter. Choose moisture-wicking, breathable materials such as merino wool or synthetic fabrics. Base layers like thermal tops and bottoms, along with socks, gloves, and a beanie, help retain body heat and keep you cozy throughout the night.

Hot Water Bottle

A hot water bottle can be a lifesaver during cold winter nights. Fill it with hot water, wrap it in a cover or towel to avoid burns, and place it inside your sleeping bag. It’ll stay warm for hours, ensuring a toasty night’s sleep.

Insulating Sleeping Mat

An insulating sleeping mat or an anti-condensation mat is a must-have when winter camping. Not only does it add comfort, but it also insulates you from the cold ground, providing a barrier between you and the chilly floor. Look for one with a high R-value for maximum insulation.

Thermal Clothing

As mentioned earlier, thermal clothing is essential for staying warm in cold weather. Invest in quality items that fit well and, most importantly, keep you snug and cozy while winter camping in your rooftop tent.

Are Rooftop Tents Good For Winter?

Rooftop tents can definitely be good for winter camping if you choose the right one and have the proper gear. Many rooftop tents, especially those labeled as “four-season tents” or “hard shell roof top tents,” are designed to handle cold weather conditions, providing insulation and waterproofing to keep you warm and dry during your winter camping trip.

When it comes to insulation, hard shell rooftop tents usually offer better warmth and protection from the elements compared to their soft shell counterparts. This is because they are made with materials that have better insulating properties, and their designs have fewer gaps for the cold air to seep in. Of course, adding extra insulation in the form of blankets, sleeping pads, or even a thermal liner can enhance your comfort even more.

Waterproofing is another crucial factor for cold weather camping. Make sure that the rooftop tent you choose provides good waterproofing features, such as heavy-duty fabric, a rainfly, or a waterproof cover. This will help keep moisture out and ensure that you stay warm and dry throughout your camping adventure.

Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to winter camping, whether in a rooftop tent or otherwise. As such, always be sure to pack the necessary cold weather camping gear, such as warm clothing, emergency supplies, and a quality tent heater. It’s worth noting that not all heaters are suitable for use in rooftop tents, so make sure to choose one that has been specifically designed for this purpose.

A well-constructed four-season rooftop tent can provide a comfortable and safe haven for cold weather campers, but it’s crucial to invest in the right accessories and camping gear to enhance your experience. As long as you’re well-prepared, there’s no reason a rooftop tent can’t become your cozy home away from home during those chilly winter camping trips.