If you’re a camper, you know that one of the most important things for a successful trip is hot water. The only problem? It’s not always easy to get. If you’re out in the wilderness and don’t have access to electricity, it can be difficult to heat up water for your morning shower or even a cup of coffee.
Luckily, these are the top rated propane water heaters for camping! These are devices that are used with propane tanks, and they’re designed to heat up your water quickly so that you can enjoy a nice hot shower when you need one.
In this article, we’ll go over 4 of our favourite portable camping water heaters and talk about why we like them so much!
What are portable camping water heaters?
A portable camping water heater is a small, self-contained appliance that can be used to heat water while camping. The most common type of portable camping water heater uses propane gas as its fuel source. These units are very efficient and can quickly heat large quantities of water.
Another type of portable camp water heater uses electricity as its power source. These models are not as popular as the propane versions, but they offer some advantages over them.
Electric camp water heaters do not produce any harmful emissions and they are much safer to use than their gas-powered counterparts!
How do Portable Camping Water Heaters Work?
Portable camp water heaters are a great way to have hot water while camping. They work by using either propane or electricity to heat up the water in their tank. Portable camp water heater models will vary, so it is best to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to operate yours.
In general, you will need to fill the water heater with cold water and then turn it on. The unit will automatically begin heating the water until it reaches the desired temperature. Some units also have an automatic shut-off feature that kicks in once the set temperature is reached, which can be helpful if you forget to turn off your unit.
How Much Does an Average Portable Camping Water Heater Cost?
Portable camping water heaters are a great investment for those who love to camp and hike. They allow you to have hot water on demand, without having to rely on a fire or stove top.
However, they can be expensive, so it’s important to know how much they cost before making a purchase. On average, portable camping water heaters cost between $200 and $500.
The price will vary depending on the brand, model, size, and features of the heater. For example, some models come with additional features like an automatic shut-off or temperature control.
Others might be made from higher-quality materials that make them more durable in rough conditions. Ultimately, the best way to find a good deal is by shopping around and comparing prices from different retailers.
If you’re looking for a portable camping water heater that won’t break the bank, then there are several budget-friendly options available. Some popular brands sell small units for as little as $120-150. These models typically don’t have any fancy features, but they get the job done if you just need basic hot water access while out in nature!
Buying Guide to the Top Rated Propane Water Heaters for Camping
If you’re heading out into the wilderness with a group of friends or family, you’ll want to be sure that everyone has a comfortable place to sleep. But even if you have a tent that’s designed for camping and sleeping outdoors, you still need to make sure that everyone has access to hot water.
Luckily, there are several portable camping water heaters out there that can help make sure that everyone can get in their daily showers, no matter how far away from civilization you are. But how to choose one?
Well, this is where this buying guide comes in! We have jotted down all the necessary factors that one needs to consider before buying a portable camping water heater!
1. Power Source
When looking for a portable camp water heater, we must consider the power source. There are many options available on the market today, but not all heaters will work with every type of power source. Some common power sources include:
- Propane: This is a popular option because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to find. Propane can be found at most hardware stores or camping supply stores. However, propane does have some drawbacks. It can be dangerous to use if not handled properly, and it can produce harmful fumes when burned.
- Electricity: Another popular option, electricity is often readily available at campsites (though you may need to bring your own extension cord). Electric heaters tend to be more expensive than propane models, but they are also much safer to use.
- Solar: Solar powered camp water heaters are becoming increasingly popular as they provide a clean and renewable energy source. However, solar heaters are also typically more expensive than other types of camp water heaters.
When choosing a portable camp water heater, be sure to consider what type of power source will be available at your campsite. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, compare prices and reviews to find the best model for your needs.
2. Tank or Tankless
When it comes to portable camp water heaters, there are two main types: tank and tankless. Each has its own pros and cons that you should think about before making a purchase.
- Tank water heaters have the advantage of being able to store hot water for extended periods of time. This is ideal if you’re planning on using your heater for multiple showers or other activities that require large amounts of hot water.
- However, tank heaters are typically heavier and more difficult to transport than their tankless counterparts. Additionally, they can take longer to heat up the water in colder weather conditions.
- Tankless water heaters offer the benefit of being much lighter and easier to carry around with you on your camping trips. They also tend to heat up water faster than tanks! On the downside, however, most tankless models cannot provide enough continuous hot water flow for lengthy showers or baths, and they may need frequent re-heating in very cold temperatures. As such, they might not be suitable for all camping situations.
So, which type of portable camp water heater is right for you? It ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize convenience and portability above all else, then a tankless model might be the way to go.
However, if extended hot water availability is more important to you, then a tank heater would probably be the better choice!
3. BTU Rating
When considering a portable camp water heater, one of the most important things to look at is the BTU rating. The BTU rating will tell you how quickly and efficiently the unit can heat up your water.
A higher BTU rating means that the unit can heat up your water faster, so if you’re looking for a quick way to get hot water on demand, then make sure to choose a portable camp water heater with a high BTU output.
Most portable camp water heaters will have a BTU output of around 30,000 to 50,000 BTUs. There are some units on the market that boast an even higher output of up to 70,000 BTUs, but these tend to be more expensive and may not be necessary for most people’s needs!
4. Flow Rate
Next, consider flow rate! Flow rate determines how quickly the water heater can heat up your water supply. A higher flow rate means that the unit can heat up your water faster, which is ideal if you’re using it for camping or other outdoor activities where you need hot water on demand.
There are a few different ways to measure flow rate, but GPM (gallons per minute) is the most common metric. It’s important to choose a portable camp water heater with a high enough flow rate to meet your needs. If you have multiple people using hot showers or needing large amounts of hot water simultaneously, then you’ll want at least a 3 GPM unit.
For smaller groups or single users, 2-3 GPM should be sufficient. Be sure to check the specifications of any model you’re considering ensuring that it will meet your needs in terms of both capacity and flowrate.
My Suggested 4 Best Portable Camping Water Heaters
1. Camplux Tankless Water Heater
Looking for a compact and portable water heater that you can take with you on road trips or to the cabin? Look no further than the Camplux Tankless Water Heater.
This unit is powerful, energy efficient, and easy to use. Just connect it to a propane tank and get instant hot water in minutes. The Camplux Tankless Water Heater also comes equipped with multiple safety features, including a flame failure device, anti-freezing protection, and over-heating protection.
Plus, its compact and lightweight structure saves on energy with 11.5% energy saving technology. Don’t be caught without hot water again – pick up a Camplux Tankless Water Heater today!
Features
- Flow Rate: 1.32 Gallons
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Capacity: 5 Litres
- BTU: 34,000/hr
Pros
- Compact and portable
- Perfect for barns, cabins, outdoor showers, and road trips
- Has a good GPM rate of 1.32
- Powerful and energy efficient with a maximum power output 34,000 BTU/hour
- Equipped with multiple safety features, including a flame failure device, anti-freezing protection, and over-heating protection
Cons
- The temperature can’t be ideally controlled with varying water pressure levels!
If you’re looking for a water heater that’s compact and portable, but also powerful and energy efficient with a maximum power output of 34,000 BTU/hour, then the Camplux Portable Propane Water Heater is the product for you.
This water heater is equipped with multiple safety features, including a flame failure device and anti-freezing protection. With its great GPM rate of 1.32, it’s perfect for last minute camping trips!
2. FORUEE Tankless Portable Propane Water Heater
Are you planning a road trip in your RV, or maybe some time camping outdoors? If you are, then you’ll need a reliable and portable way to have hot water. The FORUEE Tankless Portable Propane Water Heater is perfect for those situations!
This tankless water heater does not require electricity – it uses 2 D cell batteries for ignition instead. Plus, at only 14 lbs, it’s easily portable so you can take it with you wherever you go. This propane water heater has a maximum power output of 34,000 BTUs/HR and can provide 1.32 gallons of instant hot water – that’s enough to fill an entire sink!
There are also 6 safety protections included. Plus, to top it all off, it comes with everything you need to get set up quickly and safely. So, don’t forget the FORUEE when packing for your next outdoor adventure!
Features
- Flow Rate: 1.32 Gallons
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Capacity: 5 Litres
- BTU: 34,000/hr
Pros
- Ideal for RV camping and outdoor trips
- Does not require electricity.
- Weighs just 14 lbs.
- Has a maximum power output of 34,000 BTU/hr
- There are 5 safety protections included.
Cons
- You must use strong D batteries, or the heater won’t ignite!
If you’re looking for a portable water heater that can keep up with your outdoor lifestyle and doesn’t require electricity, this is the product for you.
It’s perfect for camping, RVing, or any other outdoor trip where you don’t have access to gas or electricity. It’s lightweight, weighing just 14 pounds and has a maximum power output of 34,000 BTU/hr. Plus, it also comes with 5 safety protections included!
3. Thermomate Tankless Portable Propane Water Heater
Are you tired of waiting for hot water? From now on, get instant and endless hot water with the Thermomate Tankless Portable Propane Water Heater. This compact and space-saving design is perfect for any home.
It’s great for RVs, cabins, camping trips, or anywhere else you need hot water. With a maximum output of 34000 BTU/Hr, this little powerhouse can provide 1.32 GPM of continuous hot water. That means no more cold showers! The best part is that it doesn’t need to be preheated – just turn it on and go!
Plus, if there’s ever any issue, customer service is available 24 hours a day to help out. So, don’t wait – order your own Thermomate Tankless Portable Propane Water Heater today!
Features
- Flow Rate: 1.32 Gallons
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Capacity: 5 Litres
- BTU: 34,000/hr
Pros
- Rated at 1.32 GPM and can reach a maximum power output of 34,000 BTU/Hr
- Need to be preheated and provides endless hot water on demand.
- Has a compact design
- Features overheating and flameout protection, as well as anti-freezing drainage.
- Is fully equipped and only takes 5 minutes to install
Cons
- No cons worth mentioning!
The Thermomate Tankless Portable Propane Water Heater is the perfect solution for your water heating needs. This portable heater can provide endless hot water on demand and is perfect for outdoor use, as well as indoor applications.
It features overheating and flameout protection, as well as anti-freezing drainage to keep you safe while you’re enjoying your hot shower or bath. It also has a compact design that makes it easy to install in just 5 minutes!
4. FORUEE Tankless 6-in-1 Portable Propane Water Heater
Looking for a tankless water heater that you can take with you on all your adventures? Look no further than the FORUEE Tankless 6-in-1 Portable Propane Water Heater.
This compact and lightweight water heater is perfect for taking with you RV camping, or on any outdoor trip. And there’s no electricity required – ignition of the propane water heater is with 2 pieces D cell batteries! With a maximum power output of 34,000 BTU/hr, this mini powerhouse can easily provide 1.32 gallons of endless hot water.
It also features oxygen depletion safety shut-off protection, over-heating protection and an anti-freezing protection along with wrenches and fitting kits – everything you need to get started!
Features
- Flow Rate: 1.32 Gallons
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Capacity: 5 Litres
- BTU: 34,000/hr
Pros
- Ideal for RV camping, outdoor trip and washing pets.
- No electricity required.
- Maximum power output of 34,000 BTU/hr
- Comes equipped with oxygen depletion safety shut-off protection, over-heating protection and anti-freezing protection.
- Also includes a CSA gas regulator.
Cons
- No such cons worth mentioning!
If you’re looking for a portable propane water heater that can handle the rigors of outdoor life, look no further than the FORUEE Tankless 6-in-1 Portable Propane Water Heater.
With this product, you’ll never have to worry about freezing temperatures or oxygen depletion thanks to its automatic shutoff protection mechanisms. The FORUEE Tankless 6-in-1 Portable Propane Water Heater also comes equipped with an easy-to-use CSA gas regulator that makes installation simple and fast!
FAQs
1. What is the best portable hot water system for camping?
We all know how important hot water is, especially when we are out camping. A good portable hot water system can make a big difference in our comfort levels while enjoying the great outdoors.
But with so many different models and brands on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is right for us. Here is a look at two of the best portable hot water systems for camping: Camplux and Thermomate.
- Camplux: This brand offers several different models of portable battery-powered water heaters that are perfect for use when camping. They have both indoor and outdoor models available, as well as ones specifically designed for RVs or trailers. These units are easy to set up and use, and they provide plenty of hot water for showering or washing dishes while you are out camping.
- Thermomate: Another great option when it comes to portable hot water systems for camping is Thermomate. Their products are also powered by battery, and they offer a wide range of sizes and styles to choose from depending on your needs. They even have some compact models that would be perfect for taking along on backpacking trips or other adventures where space might be limited.
2. How do you heat water for shower camping?
If you’re showering while camping, there are a few different ways that you can heat water.
- One option is to boil water on a camp stove and then pour it into a solar shower bag.
- Another option is to fill up your sink with hot water from the tap and then use a hand held shower head to rinse off.
- Finally, if you have access to an RV or camper hook-up, you can connect your hose directly to the hot water tank for instant showers!
3. How do you warm up water when camping?
If you’re camping in an area with no water hook-ups, then you’ll need to find a way to heat up your water. Here are a few ways that you can do this:
- Solar-heated water: This is the most environmentally friendly option, and it’s also free! All you need is a blackwater tank and some tubing. Place the blackwater tank in direct sunlight and let it warm up for several hours. Then, use the tubing to siphon the heated water into your camp shower or sink.
- Campfire-heated water: If you have access to a campfire, then this is an easy way to heat up your water. Simply fill a pot with cold water and place it over the flames of your fire (make sure that the pot has handles so that you don’t burn yourself).
- Portable propane/battery water heater: These handy little devices can be found at most outdoor stores or online retailers specializing in camping gear. They typically run off of small propane tanks/batteries and have their own built-in pump that circulates cold water through coils surrounding the burner unit, heating it as it goes!
4. How can I warm my shower without a water heater?
If you’re looking for ways to warm your shower without a water heater, there are a few options. You can try using an electric blanket or space heater in the bathroom, running hot water from the sink into the tub before getting in, or taking shorter showers.
Another option is to invest in a solar-powered shower system. These typically consist of a black hose that absorbs heat from the sun and warms up the water as it passes through. Solar showers are great for camping or situations where you don’t have access to traditional forms of heating.
5. How do you get instantaneously hot shower water?
If you’ve ever been in a situation where you need hot water fast, you know how frustrating it can be. You turn on the shower, only to be met with icy cold water. It’s enough to make anyone want to give up and take a freezing cold shower!
But there are actually ways that you can get instant hot water in the shower – no matter what type of plumbing system you have. One way to do this is by using an electric tankless water heater. These devices are designed to heat water on demand, so they’re perfect for getting hot water fast.
They’re also very energy-efficient, so they’ll save you money on your utility bills in the long run. Another option is to install a recirculating pump onto your existing Water Heater. This will circulate the hot water from your heater to your shower, so you’ll always have hot water when you need it!
6. What are the main disadvantages of instant hot water systems?
There are several disadvantages to using an instant hot water system.
- One disadvantage is that they can be costly to acquire and install.
- Additionally, if not properly maintained, they can break down often, leaving you without hot water when you need it most.
- Finally, because these systems heat the water as it passes through a heating element, there is always the potential for scalding if the unit is not used correctly.
7. Is a 20 gallon water heater enough for a shower?
If you have a 20 gallon water heater, it sure is enough for one person to take a shower.
However, if you have multiple people using hot water in your home (for example, taking showers and doing laundry at the same time) or even outdoor (for example a campsite), then your 20 gallon water heater may not be sufficient. In this case, you might want to consider upgrading to a larger capacity unit!
8. What are the most frequent issues associated with tankless water heaters?
There are a few different issues that can happen with tankless water heaters.
- One common problem is hard water build-up, which can clog the unit and reduce its efficiency.
- Another issue is mineral deposits, which can also lead to reduced efficiency and potential leaks.
If you have a tankless water heater, it’s important to stay on top of maintenance in order to avoid these problems. Regularly flushing the unit and descaling it as needed can help keep it working properly for many years!
9. What can you use instead of a water heater?
Heating water is an energy-intensive process, so finding ways to reduce your reliance on a conventional water heater can save you money and help the environment. Here are some alternatives to consider:
- Solar water heater
- Heat pump water heater
- Tankless water heater
If you’re looking for ways to reduce your reliance on a conventional water heater, these are some great alternatives to consider!
10. Are instant hot water heaters worth it?
Are you tired of waiting for your water to heat up? If so, then you may be considering an instant hot water heater. Instant hot water heaters can provide near-instantaneous hot water, which means that you don’t have to wait for the water to heat up before using it.
There are a few things to consider before purchasing an instant hot water heater. First, they are more expensive than traditional storage tank heaters. Second, they require a higher level of maintenance and care than traditional heaters. Third, they use more energy than traditional storage tank style heating systems.
So, are they worth it? That depends on your needs and preferences. If you want the convenience of near-instant hot water, then an instant hot water heater may be a good option for you. However, if you’re looking for a more economical option, then a traditional storage tank style heater may be better suited for your needs!
Additional Resources
If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs and troubleshooting about camping and enjoying the outdoors, here are some additional posts to check out:
The Bottom Line
Camping is a wonderful way to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of nature, but it can be hard to enjoy hot showers when you’re out in the wild. Thankfully, there are portable water heaters that can provide you with a nice hot shower even when you’re miles from civilization.
If you’re looking for a great portable camping water heater, look no further than these options. Thanks for reading! If you think I forgot something or if you simply want to share a story or some advice, feel free to leave your comment below. Be Safe and Happy adventures!