The Best Camping Water Heater For 2024

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Best Camping Water Heater
Best Camping Water Heater

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: GASLAND Tankless Water Heater

Featuring a good off-the-grid, advanced safety protection system, and LED digital display, the GASLAND Tankless Water Heater provides a low energy consumption and is ideal for both indoors and outdoors. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater

The Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater provides comfortable campsite showers, pumps, and heats on-the-go have an automatic safety shutoff to ensure your safety, and comes in a conveniently compact design. Read Review

3. Best Powerful: Ecosmart ECO MINI Water Heater

The Ecosmart ECO MINI Water Heater plugs into any 120V outlet and can provide quick and efficient hot water at the point of use. Read Review

4. Best Portable: Mr. Heater F235300 BOSS-XB13 Basecamp Battery Operated Shower System

The Mr. Heater F235300 BOSS-XB13 Basecamp Battery Operated Shower System delivers 12,000 BTUs of heat to increase water temperature up to 35 degrees above the source. Read Review

5. Best Easy To Assemble: GASLAND Tankless Water Heater

Get your hot water on demand with GASLAND Tankless Water Heater. With 1.54GPM/2L per minute of flow rate, it's perfect for off-the-grid settings and delivers a steady stream of hot water in seconds. Read Review

Do you live in a humid climate where it can get cold at night? Or do you just want to stay warm while camping? Well, there are a few things you can do to make sure your camping trip is comfortable. After all, being uncomfortable isn’t going to help you sleep well or enjoy the sights of nature. Naturally, the first thing most people think about when camping is water.

And for good reason too. Without access to safe and clean water, camping becomes virtually impossible. Fortunately, with a quality camping water heater, that won’t be an issue anymore! This article will discuss different types of camp water heaters including some affordable designs that are suitable for almost any camper.

Before making our recommendations, our specialists spend substantial time researching and analyzing customer feedback. Then we found the best camping water heater is GASLAND Tankless Water Heater. It is the greatest choice for its high quality. If you're looking for another one, consider Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater. It could better suit your needs.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 GASLAND Tankless Water Heater
Our Score:
9.8
GASLAND

๐— ๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—ป๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ ๐—ง๐—ถ๐—ฝ๐˜€ - Designed for portable outdoor use. It is splash-proof and can manage a little drizzle, however, prolonged exposure to rain/water will damage the internal components. We recommend using and storing your water heater in a dry place. For the winter, please drain out the wate by disconnecting the drain plug and store it in the warm and dry area.

๐Ÿญ-๐—ฌ๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ ๐—–๐˜‚๐˜€๐˜๐—ผ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐—ฆ๐˜‚๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐˜ - We provide a 1-year Warranty against manufacture defects and lifetime customer support.

๐—Ÿ๐—˜๐—— ๐——๐—ถ๐—ด๐—ถ๐˜๐—ฎ๐—น ๐——๐—ถ๐˜€๐—ฝ๐—น๐—ฎ๐˜† - Bright power, the temperature readout as to not get the water to hot or cold.

๐—ฆ๐—ฎ๐—ณ๐—ฒ๐˜๐˜† ๐—œ๐—ป๐˜€๐˜๐—ฎ๐—น๐—น๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป ๐—ง๐—ถ๐—ฝ๐˜€ - To avoid gas leakage caused by improper sealing of the water heater, DO NOT TWINE TEFLON TAPE between gas regulator and gas inlet pipe. Always check gas leakage before operation.

๐Ÿญ.๐Ÿฑ๐Ÿด๐—š๐—ฃ๐— /๐Ÿฒ๐—Ÿ ๐—ฃ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ฝ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฒ ๐—ช๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐—›๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฟ - Maximum power output 41,000BTU/Hr.The temperature raise is 109.4โ„‰ (43โ„ƒ) at its highest point and 55.4โ„‰ (13โ„ƒ) is at its lowest point of 1.58 GPM. Also, 1.58 gallons of hot water can be produced per minute at the flow rate of 1.58 GPM. Low water pressure start up, just need 3.6 PSI of water pressure to start.

๐—ช๐—ต๐—ฎ๐˜'๐˜€ ๐—œ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—น๐˜‚๐—ฑ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ - GASLAND BE158 Tankless Water Heater, CSA certified gas regulator and hose,5 feet On/Off Switch Shower Head, mounting hardware, garden hose adapter, Manual.

๐—”๐—ฑ๐˜ƒ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ ๐—ฆ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ณ๐˜† ๐—ฃ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป ๐—ฆ๐˜†๐˜€๐˜๐—ฒ๐—บ - With CSA certification, safe as per Canadian and US Standard. Features over-heating protection, low water flow protection, dry combustion protection, anti-freezing protection, high water pressure protection and flame failure device.

๐—š๐—ผ๐—ผ๐—ฑ ๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—ฟ ๐—ข๐—ณ๐—ณ-๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ-๐—š๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ฑ - Runs on a standard 20 lb. liquid propane tank and is equipped with an electronic ignition powered by two D-cell batteries. Can be used in a variety of scenarios: while you're camping, RVing, hunting, hanging poolside, washing your pets or horses, cleaning your vehicle, or even in your tiny home, greenhouse, or cabin house.

TOP Choice #2 Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater
Our Score:
9.7
Hike Crew

AUTOMATIC SAFETY SHUTOFF – Smart Technology Turns Off the Gas Burner When Water Reaches 142-149 °F; Water Flow Sensor & Fuse & Tilt Protection for Added Safety

PORTABLE OUTDOOR WATER HEATER – Innovative System Runs on Propane Gas Tank to Heat Water for Showering, Washing Dishes, Cleaning Hands & Other Tasks

COMFORTABLE CAMPSITE SHOWERS – Includes Water Temperature Control Knob, Hand Faucet/Spigot & Shower Head Attachment w/ [3] Adjustable Spray Patterns

CONVENIENT COMPACT DESIGN – Travel Friendly Heater Arrives With Adapters, Hoses, Attachments & Accessories in a Handy Carry Bag [Propane Not Included]

PUMP & HEAT ON-THE-GO – Connect AC/DC Adapter to Outlet or 12V Cigarette Lighter to Car for Instant Hot Water; Perfect for Camping, Fishing, Hiking & Hunting

TOP Choice #3 Ecosmart ECO MINI Water Heater
Our Score:
9.6
EcoSmart

Plugs into 120V outlet

Easy installation - appliance line cord included

For Buffer and Point of Use applications

Pressure Relief Valve Included

6 D-cell batteries required - 4 for pump, 2 for igniter (sold separately)

12,000 BTUs increase water temperature up to 35-degrees above source (source temperature must be below 60-degrees)

Anti-scald protection and safety tip-over shut-off switch

Portable battery operated propane shower system

Matchless electric ignition produces instant hot water

5 GASLAND Tankless Water Heater
Our Score:
9.4
GASLAND

๐— ๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—ป๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ ๐—ง๐—ถ๐—ฝ๐˜€ - Designed for portable outdoor use. It is splash-proof and can manage a little drizzle, however, prolonged exposure to rain/water will damage the internal components. We recommend using and storing your water heater in a dry place. For the winter, please drain out the wate by disconnecting the drain plug and store it in the warm and dry area.

๐Ÿญ.๐Ÿฑ๐Ÿด๐—š๐—ฃ๐— /๐Ÿฒ๐—Ÿ ๐—ฃ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ฝ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฒ ๐—ช๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐—›๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฟ - Maximum power output 41,000BTU/Hr.The temperature raise is 109.4โ„‰ (43โ„ƒ) at its highest point and 55.4โ„‰ (13โ„ƒ) is at its lowest point of 1.58 GPM. Also, 1.58 gallons of hot water can be produced per minute at the flow rate of 1.58 GPM. Low water pressure start up, just need 3.6 PSI of water pressure to start.

๐Ÿญ-๐—ฌ๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ ๐—–๐˜‚๐˜€๐˜๐—ผ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐—ฆ๐˜‚๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐˜ - We provide a 1-year Warranty against manufacture defects and lifetime customer support.

๐—ฆ๐—ฎ๐—ณ๐—ฒ๐˜๐˜† ๐—œ๐—ป๐˜€๐˜๐—ฎ๐—น๐—น๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป ๐—ง๐—ถ๐—ฝ๐˜€ - To avoid gas leakage caused by improper sealing of the water heater, DO NOT TWINE TEFLON TAPE between gas regulator and gas inlet pipe. Always check gas leakage before operation.

๐—š๐—ผ๐—ผ๐—ฑ ๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—ฟ ๐—ข๐—ณ๐—ณ-๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ-๐—š๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ฑ - Runs on a standard 20 lb. liquid propane tank and is equipped with an electronic ignition powered by two D-cell batteries. Can be used in a variety of scenarios: while you're camping, RVing, hunting, hanging poolside, washing your pets or horses, cleaning your vehicle, or even in your tiny home, greenhouse, or cabin house.

๐—Ÿ๐—˜๐—— ๐——๐—ถ๐—ด๐—ถ๐˜๐—ฎ๐—น ๐——๐—ถ๐˜€๐—ฝ๐—น๐—ฎ๐˜† - Bright power, the temperature readout as to not get the water to hot or cold.

๐—ช๐—ต๐—ฎ๐˜'๐˜€ ๐—œ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—น๐˜‚๐—ฑ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ - GASLAND BE158B Tankless Water Heater, CSA certified gas regulator and hose,5 feet On/Off Switch Shower Head, mounting hardware, garden hose adapter, Manual.

๐—”๐—ฑ๐˜ƒ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ ๐—ฆ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ณ๐˜† ๐—ฃ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป ๐—ฆ๐˜†๐˜€๐˜๐—ฒ๐—บ - With CSA certification, safe as per Canadian and US Standard. Features over-heating protection, low water flow protection, dry combustion protection, anti-freezing protection, high water pressure protection and flame failure device.

6 Camplux Tankless Water Heaters Outdoor
Our Score:
9.2
CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE

Safety Tip: To avoid gas leakage caused by improper sealing of the water heater, DO NOT TWINE TEFLON TAPE between gas regulator and gas inlet pipe. Read the directions before installation check for gas leaks at all times before operating.

Warm Maintenance Tips: It must be properly drained if the water heater stored in cold climate, Freeze damage can occur in the heat exchanger or water valves. To drain the device properly, please open the drain stern located at the bottom right of the water heater . You can do so by turning in a counter clockwise direction. Please disconnect all incoming and outgoing water lines to ensure proper drainage from the water heater. When not in use, fully disconnect gas, incoming and outgoing waterlines. Store in a warm dray place.

6-in-1 Protection & CSA Safety Approved: This tankless water heater is CSA Approved with anti-freezing protection, over-heating protection, low water flow protection, dry combustion protection, high water pressure protection and flame failure device.

Installation Instruction & Package Content: This Camplux BD158N heater comes with 1-year guarantee, 5 feet premium on/off shower head, 5 feet gas regulator, 1 set US-standard garden hose, and 1 installation hardware pack. Setting up this propane water heater simply takes 10 minutes.

Flow Rate & Temperature Specification: The temperature raise is 114.8โ„‰ (46โ„ƒ) at its highest point and 46.4โ„‰ (8โ„ƒ) is at its lowest point of 1.58 GPM. Also, 1.58 gallons of hot water can be produced per minute at the flow rate of 1.58 GPM.

Versatile Applications: The lowest water pressure at beginning for the water heater is 3.0 PSI. For off-grid and rural areas, this hot water generator powered by two size D batteries is ideal. No more chilly outdoor shower anymore.

Lightweight, Compact & Portable Design: The 14 pounds lightweight portable water heater's folding handle keeps it out of the way and enables easy setup outside.

High-power submersible electric pump provides reliable, strong water flow

Dispenses hot water up to 125 degrees Fahrenheit in as little as 30 seconds

Includes convenient mesh storage bag and 5-gallon collapsible water carrier

Portable camping water heater provides easy access to hot water

Shower head with 6-foot, non-kinking silicone hose facilitates outdoor showering

ใ€ON DEMAND HOT WATER ใ€‘: HOTataitai portable tankless water heater can delivers 41,000 BTU per hour at high output setting.Its maximum temperature rise is 167โ„‰(75โ„ƒ), and this portable water heater can supply instant hot water easily wherever you are. No need to preheat, no need to wait. As soon as you turn on the switch on the shower rose or tap, the water will flow with your desired temperature. Fully adjustable heat and water flow.

ใ€CSA CERTIFIEDใ€‘๏ผšThe gas quick fittings-CSA approved, to make sure no gas leaks risk when connection and simplify the connection without tools, install by one hand.

ใ€QUICK CONNECT GAS INLETใ€‘: Easy to install gas pipe by one hand, with more safety for preventing any gas danger at the same time. And this portable propane water heater has compact size and folding handle allow for convenience to carry. With the portable handle, you can hanging it vertically into a hook or using the mounting bracket on the top/back of the gas water heater.

ใ€LIGHTWEIGHT PORTABLE BODYใ€‘: Body size of this outdoor tankless water heater: 17.3”*11.8”*5.3”, net weight: only 12 lb! And this 1.58 GPM portable tankless water can bring instant hot water for you when you are camping with your family, off-grid cabins, boating, horse trailers, stables or simply rinsing off by the pool. Also, you can wash your pets outdoor with this 1.58 GPM portable tankless water heater.

ใ€MULTIPLE PROTECTIONSใ€‘๏ผšHOTaitai propane tankless water heater can automatically shuts off gas supply when flame goes out accidentally and ignition is unsuccessful. Anti-freezing protection, the drain plug can discharge the residual water inside to avoid freezing in cold areas or in case of long time idle. This portable water heater has high temperature protection, if water temperature over 167 °F, the unit will shut down automaticlly.

9 Camplux Portable Outdoor Tankless Water Heater
Our Score:
8.5
CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE

Quick Connections. Portable hot water heater with a brass quick-connection, you can forget about fiddling with spanners and thread tape. No worry about gas leaks anymore.

Superior Water Flow: This 5L propane portable water heater provides 1.32 GPM hot water on demand, you can enjoy a real home-style hot shower.

Low Water Pressure: Compatible water pressure between 3.0psi~143psi. The portable camping water heater start with 3.0 PSI low water pressure,it's good for RV camping, outdoor trip, washing pets. You can also hang the water bag on the tree if there is no water pump or corresponding power supply pump to supply power outdoors, but ensure that the water bag is about 3M away from the water heater.

Super Portable & Compact. The portable water heater with portable handle,carry bag and solid freestanding stand, you can set it up just about anywhere. You can put all staffs in the supplied waterproof carry bag ,making it much more easier to move around and fit in with all other camping gear.

Set up in No time. This 5L propane hot water heater comes with 11.5 extension long shower hose , 5 feet quick gas regulator, US standard garden hose, you can connect your Camplux water heater with snap-on fittings for gas and water, put down the carry bag and put up the stand then you are all set.

10 Seeutek Portable Water Heater
Our Score:
8.4
Seeutek

๐Ÿ๏ธMulti-scene Application: This instant water heater is suitable for outdoor shower in various scenarios, such as RV shower, outdoor camping, pet washing, outdoor pool shower, outdoor car wash and beach bathing. Provide you with hot water anytime and anywhere. Safe and comfortable, convenient and energy-saving.

๐Ÿ๏ธExcellent Performance:ใ€Instant hot waterใ€‘: Instant and continuous supply of hot water whenever you need it.ใ€High efficiency and energy savingใ€‘: It has two combustion modes in summer and winter, and both the heat exchanger and the main burner adopt the most advanced energy-saving combustion technology, which can reduce gas consumption and noise while ensuring the continuous supply of hot water.

๐Ÿ๏ธProduct Parameters: Applicable Water Pressure Range: 3.0-145 PSI; Maximum Power Output: 41,000btu/Hr; Water Output Per Minute:1.6GPM/6L; Item Dimensions LxWxH: 11.42x4.9x14.57 inches; Weight: 13.3 pounds. Efficient and energy-saving, lightweight and convenient.

๐Ÿ๏ธConvenient and Durable: Our tankless water heater are lightweight and portable, with a portable handle for easy carrying and hanging for outdoor use. This outdoor water heater has a compact and sturdy frame design, not only space saving but also durable and has a long service life. Easy to install and great for outdoor use.

๐Ÿ๏ธCSA Safety Certification: Our propane water heater have multiple safety protection settings and have been CSA certified for safety. For example,ใ€Overheat Protectionใ€‘: When the water temperature exceeds 167โ„‰, the gas supply is automatically shut off.ใ€Anti-freeze Protectionใ€‘: The anti-freeze drain plug can drain the residual water and avoid freezing when the temperature is low or when it is not used for a long time.

๐Ÿ๏ธReliable After-sales Service: As long as you buy our products, we will be responsible for your products! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our customer service, we will solve any product-related problems for you.

What to Look For in a best camping water heater?

We're sure you've purchased something and afterward regretted it. We are all concerned about the items we purchase. The easiest method to prevent these concerns is to conduct a thorough study before purchasing the best camping water heater.

That is also why we decided to introduce this post in order to provide you with advice on how to avoid buying errors when selecting the best camping water heater.

Packed Size

Some gravity-powered camping showers can be carried on backpacking trips, but others are large enough that they may need to be combined with a tent. Before you commit to buying a camping shower, think about how much storage space your car or backpack can accommodate.

Price

Your budget could be the most important factor in deciding which camping shower to buy. The cost of camping showers is affected by all the factors mentioned above. However, quality usually means a higher price.

There are many products that can clean your skin, and they are affordable. If you have a limited budget, gravity showers may also work as dry bags.

If you are looking to rent a shower at your campsite for the whole summer or for long trips, then a higher-priced shower is a good option. This will not only save time, but also make it more comfortable and last longer.

Gravity Vs. Pressure

A camp shower should move water rapidly through its thin neck so it can spray on both sides. This can be done either by gravity or internal pressure. The camp showers that depend on gravity must be raised before being used. This can either be done in a tree, or by another method. Water is released when the nozzle opens. Normaly gravity gives you enough velocity for your body to be rinsed fairly well. But don't forget to wash your hair.

Camp showers can use both internal pressure and external pressure to force water through the nozzle. Human-generated pressure is the first. This happens by pushing air into the water chamber, which builds enough pressure to cause the water to shoot out at the end of the nozzle, often at a high velocity. Although this creates a similar amount of pressure as a standard shower head, it is necessary to pump the water occasionally for human-powered camping showers to maintain their pressure.

Others camp showers use internal battery to pump water through the nozzle. These batteries must be recharged regularly to allow for continued use at home, or by using one of our best camping power banks.

Flow Rate

Some gravity-powered camping showers can be carried on backpacking trips, but others are large enough that they may need to be combined with a tent. Before you commit to buying a camping shower, think about how much storage space your car or backpack can accommodate.

Capacity

Camping showers typically hold two to three gallons. This is enough for two people to take a short, three-minute bath. It may make sense to purchase additional camp showers for larger groups, such as four-person or more.

Solar Vs Battery Heated

Solar-heated camping showers are lighter and more portable than traditional ones. However, you will need to prepare a little ahead to make sure the water bag is filled up and kept in sunlight to get a warm shower.
You won't need to bring five to ten liters of extra water if you are on a thru-hike. You won't be able heat your water if you are on a cloudy day.
Check whether hot water can be added directly to your camping shower bag before you buy it. If the bag can handle heat, it is possible to heat the water on your camping stove to get a hot shower.
A battery-heated camp shower has the advantage that it doesn't require you to prepare water, or heat the bag. However, these showers can be heavier and more costly than regular camping ones. This type of shower works best for RV camping or car camping.

FAQs

What type of camping water heater is best?

The type of camping water heater that is best for you will depend on your needs and preferences. Portable tankless water heaters are ideal for those who want to heat their water quickly and conveniently. Portable propane water heaters are great for those who want an economical option and don't mind the extra work involved in setting up the heater. Electric camping water heaters are great for those who want a reliable, easy-to-use option that can be used indoors or out.

How do I use a camping water heater?

The setup and use of a camping water heater will vary depending on the type of heater you have. Generally, you will need to connect the heater to a propane tank, fill it with water, and light it up. Once the heater is lit, you will be able to adjust the temperature to get the water to your desired temperature.

How much propane does a camping water heater use?

The amount of propane that a camping water heater uses will vary depending on the size of the heater, the type of heater, and the temperature of the water. Generally, larger tanks and higher temperature settings will require more propane.

How long will a camping water heater last?

The lifespan of a camping water heater will depend on the quality of the heater, how often it is used, and how well it is maintained. Generally, a well-maintained heater can last for several years.

What types of camping water heaters are available?

Camping water heaters are available in a variety of styles, including propane water heaters, electric water heaters, and solar-powered water heaters. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to research carefully before making a purchase.

What safety measures should I take when using a camping water heater?

Safety should always be a priority when using a camping water heater. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and never use a camping water heater in a confined space. Additionally, it’s important to keep the water heater away from open flames and combustible materials.

Conclusion

Finally, the best camping water heater may be readily used and offers a range of options to meet your needs. When looking for another kind of best camping water heater, which we recommend  Flame King Portable Tankless Water Heater, all of these characteristics are significant. 

We've combed through all of this data in order to assist you in making the best decision possible. Let us know if there's anything else we can do to help you discover the best camping water heater in the comments section below!


2 ratings

About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

Read Hailey's full bio