There’s plenty to love about camping in winter - empty campsites, jaw-dropping scenery, and sitting in front of that toasty campfire. But it’s not always easy, practical, or legal to light up the old bush telly, which is why we’ve pulled together our top camping heaters to keep the chill away. We’ve got a whole bunch of heating solutions that’ll keep you nice and toasty even when frosty the snowman comes to town. So, before you head out on your next winter camping trip, check out the range of portable heaters we’ve got down below. We reckon there’ll be at least one that tickles your fancy!
Portable camping heaters
Companion Portable LPG heater
The companion portable LPG heater is just that… the perfect little companion to bring along on your next winter camping trip. This unit is clearly built with the outdoors in mind, with an all-steel construction that makes it tough as nails. For a small unit it sure packs a punch blowing out a max of 10,800 BTU. It also comes with three heat settings that will keep you warm and fuzzy whether it’s freezing cold or just a little chilly. And it gets better! Even at the highest setting the unit doesn’t use too much gas, so you can keep her running without a worry that you’ll run out of LP gas before tomorrow night’s barbie.
As the unit produces carbon monoxide, please keep it for outdoor use only! We’ve got a ripper range of sleeping bags and thermals for when you get a bit chilly inside the tent so there’s no need to bring it to bed with you.
Companion Radiant Piezo LPG Heater
If you thought the last heater was handy, think again! This little guy from companion screws right onto the top of a gas bottle with a 3/8th fitting and directs the heat to where it counts with a wide reflector on the back. They say good things come in small packages, and that’s certainly the case with this beauty. For only a small heater it puts out a lot of warmth – 5,500 BTU to be exact. Small but rugged, the companion radiant piezo LPG heater is perfectly suited to the outdoors which is cracker as it’s not safe to use in confined spaces - so, keep this one out of the tent also. If you’re after a convenient unit that won’t take up much space but will keep you as warm as your childhood blankie, this is the unit for you.
Charmate Portable Kerosene Heater
How’s this for a throwback? A kero heater… but make it fun-sized. This little heater is an absolute weapon and saves you from having to bring a big gas bottle along with you. Fill up a small bottle with some kerosene and you’ll be good to go. This little beauty is literally more than just a heater, with a removable top and trivet combo that makes camp cooking a breeze. Chuck a billy on top and bring it to a boil in no time or fry up a couple snags for dinner. This unit is super economic, hardy and is absolutely perfect for a variety of outdoor adventures. If you’re looking to wind back the clock and bring the heat on your next trip, the chamate portable kerosene heater is one to add to the wishlist.
Companion Portable Propane Heater
Now here’s one that’s sure to be a crowd pleaser! The Companion Portable Propane Heater gives you the power to heat up the campsite with only a compact propane bottle. This means that you don’t need to lug around that big 9kg model that you’ve picked up from your local BCF. At the max setting you’ll have 7,000 BTU blowing out of the unit to keep you warm. With a sturdy carry handle and a tough construction, it’s crystal clear this unit has been built with the outdoors in mind. The unit comes with two heat settings and a front guard that’ll keep the little tackers and the big fellas alike nice and safe. A great all-rounder and one that isn’t just a great camping heater, but is ripper for the patio or backyard too.
Gasmate Deluxe Butane Heater
Putting the beaut in butane, this ripper of a unit is here to throw some warmth on your winter. If you're looking for a heater that's both powerful and portable, the Gasmate Deluxe Butane Heater may just be the answer. No matter where you're camping adventures take you next, with one of these beauties in tow you're good to go! Jam-packed with safety features, including a pressure sensing shut off, oxygen depletion system, and a tip over switch - this unit will keep you warm and safe at the same time. Weighing in at only 2.1kg, you'd be forgiven for thinking it's a lightweight, although the impressive 6,700 BTU output shows this pocket rocket punches well above its weight. To top it off this heater is compatible with Gasmate's 220g butane canisters which make it extremely easy to power and not too bad on the back packet either.
Gasmate Portable Diesel Heater
Say hello to our little, warm friend! Although he may be the new kid on the block, the Gasmate Portable Diesel Heater will most definitely be your new best bud for winter camping. With more than a few tricks up its sleeve, this beauty means business! It's efficient, cost-effective, and relatively safe - giving it a big tick for those with little people. Whether your idea of camping is pitching a tent, or hitching up the caravan or camper trailer, your winter camping woes are now over! When temperatures start heading south, this heater comes to party! With 6 convenient heat settings and a handy remote control, you'll have no dramas adjusting the temperature from the comfort of your cozy camping chair - no need to step outside. With a large 4.25L fuel tank, you'll be set for days (up to 7 to be exact!) with its powerful 2kW maximum heat output keeping you snug on the coldest of winter nights.
Fire Pits
This list wouldn't be complete without the humble fire pit! It's a quintessential part of the camping experience and one sure to give you that BCFing feelin! Sitting by the fire, watching the flames dance to their own tune while you roast a few marshies - it's what camping is all about. Now, don't think you have to wait until winter for fire pit fun, these bad boys are a year-round camping must have, just don't forget the firewood and kindling. BCF stock a wide variety of fire pits that each bring something a little different to the table. Check out our Fire pit buyer's guideto help ensure you make the perfect pick. If you don't know how to light a fire pit, our very own Sammy Hitzke has a great little tip that we’re sure you’ll love. Check it out here!