When you’re out camping, nothing feels better than crawling into a warm, cozy tent or camper after a long day in the cold. Whether you’re deep in the backcountry or parked at a chilly lakeside site, staying warm can turn a rough night into a restful one.
Two of the most popular ways to heat your camping space are portable diesel heaters and propane heaters. But which one is better for camping?
Let’s break it down and help you choose what’s best for your next outdoor adventure.
1. How They Work?
Before we compare them, let’s look at the basics of each type of heater.
- Propane Heaters burn propane gas to produce heat. They’re usually simple to set up, and some are even small enough to carry by hand. You’ll need propane cylinders to keep them running.
- Diesel Heaters, like the ones we offer at Planar Distribution, use diesel fuel and 12V power (from your vehicle battery or a separate power source). These heaters draw in air, heat it internally, and blow it back out as warm, dry air. Many models can be used both inside and outside tents, vans, campers, or trailers.
2. Heat Output and Efficiency
If you’re camping in mild spring or fall weather, a propane heater can keep a small tent warm. But if you’re heading out in freezing temperatures—especially in the mountains or in winter, you’ll likely want the consistent, reliable heat of a diesel heater.
Diesel Heater Wins!
- Heats larger spaces more easily.
- Offers better temperature control.
- Runs longer on a single tank of fuel.
Diesel heaters tend to be more efficient in how they use fuel, giving you more hours of warmth without needing constant attention.
3. Safety Matters
Both propane and diesel heaters can be safe when used properly, but there are a few differences to know:
- Propane heaters can release carbon monoxide if used inside closed spaces without proper ventilation. That means you have to be extra careful when using them inside a tent or camper.
- Diesel heaters are generally safer for enclosed areas because they keep combustion and fumes outside the living space. The heated air they blow inside is clean and dry, with no risk of gas leaks.
Diesel Heater Wins!
- Cleaner, drier air
- Safer operation in tight spaces
- No open flame
4. Weather Performance
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Let’s be honest, not all camping trips happen in sunny weather.
- Propane heaters can struggle in colder temperatures, especially below freezing, because propane doesn’t vaporize well in the cold. If you’ve ever had your propane tank stop working on a cold night, you know the frustration.
- Diesel heaters love cold weather. They’re built for it. Whether you’re camping at -20°C in the mountains or on a windy beach, a good diesel heater will keep working reliably, no matter the temperature.
Diesel Heater Wins!
- Performs well in extreme cold
- Designed for winter and four-season camping
- Has a protective case for rain, dirt & snow
5. Noise Level
Some campers worry about heater noise at night.
- Older diesel heaters used to be a bit noisy, but new models (like the ones we offer at Planar Distribution) run quietly and won’t disturb your sleep.
- Propane heaters are usually quiet too, but they can make hissing sounds when gas is released.
It’s mostly a tie here, but newer diesel units are surprisingly silent, especially when installed properly.
6. Fuel Availability and Cost
- Propane is widely available and comes in small canisters. But if you’re camping for several days, carrying enough bottles can get bulky.
- Diesel fuel is easy to find at any gas station, and because diesel heaters use it more efficiently, you’ll likely need less fuel overall.
Also, many overlanders and vanlifers already have diesel vehicles, making fuel sharing super convenient.
Diesel Heater Wins!
- Easier to fuel on long trips
- Lower fuel usage overall
- Fewer refills needed
7. Setup and Portability
- Propane heaters are simple: set them down, attach a tank, and go. Great for casual campers or short overnight trips.
- Diesel heaters need a bit more setup, especially if you’re mounting them in a van or trailer. But our portable diesel heaters at Planar Distribution are plug-and-play — perfect for tents, campers, RVs, and even ice fishing huts.
They’re easy to move, fast to set up, and built tough for all conditions.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re a weekend camper looking for a quick heat source in moderate weather, propane might do the job.
But if you’re serious about camping, especially in colder temperatures or over longer trips, a diesel heater is a better choice. It’s safer, more reliable, more fuel-efficient, and keeps working when propane taps out.
Stay Warm with Planar Diesel Heaters
At Planar Distribution, we offer high-performance portable diesel heaters built for all types of weather, from freezing winter nights in the mountains to those surprisingly cold summer evenings in a tent.
No matter where your next camping trip takes you, we’ve got the heater that will keep you warm, safe, and comfortable.
