There is no greater way to consume your free summer weekend than camping by the lake with your favorite beverage in hand, far away from the busy city, responsibilities, worries, and work. Well, not everyone would agree, but those who do, know how refreshing it is to sleep in a tent, close to nature.
Everything we just described sounds perfect up until the moment when the morning sun peaks its head, and your tent starts to feel like an alternative to hell. Sure, some people may enjoy exploring like they are in an oven, however, for those of you who don’t, you are at the right place- the ultimate buying guide to finding the best tent air conditioners for camping.
If sleepless nights and heat strokes don’t sound fun to you, read our useful information, tips, and of course the reviews of ACs for the lucky ones who have the electricity in the camp zone. Else we recommend you jump to our best camping tent fan reviews.
Let’s get started!
See The Quick Comparison Chart
How to Keep Your Tent Cool?
There are many products for space heating on the market nowadays, and if you check our articles, you will get highly educated about them. When It comes to camping, though, you don’t have too many options. The main ways to keep your tent cool are fans, Ice cooler fans, powered AC units, and evaporator units.
Tips for Tent Cooling
Powered A/C Units
Many tents have a ventilation system that is sufficient in many climates. Pitching your tent in the shade is also a way to decrease the heat inside.
If the regions you are going to camp in are moderately hot, you may not need a powered A/C unit. However, if you camp in excessively hot areas, a full a/c unit is a necessity. You will get a good night’s sleep, and you won’t feel as if you are in an oven.It is essential to know if you really need a powered A/C unit, for there are other alternatives to cool your tent. Electric AC units for camping are not that cheap, and they require more work when it comes to set-up. It is important to know how to set up an air-conditioned tent for the hot season. Still, they are more reliable than battery-operated counterparts and can be used for a variety of things. There are different types of electric A/C units for camping.
Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners are basically the same units that supply air to small apartments or bedrooms. They can keep an area of 150 square feet cool and run on about 5000 BTUs. If your tent has an average size, these air conditioners will be a good choice.
As their name suggests, window air conditioners fit inside of a window. Therefore, if you don’t have a ventilation spot that suits your entire unit, you may need to alter your tent to accommodate it. Check out our reviews on the best sliding window air conditioners, too.Portable Air Conditioners
This type of air conditioner is known to cool spaces up to 400 square feet at 12000 BTUs. The models can be quite bulky, but most of them are set on wheels so that you can easily maneuver them around.
Portable air conditioners still require ventilation, but usually only a smaller hose. If you also look for the best dehumidifier for basements you will be pleased to hear that portable air conditioners have an internal tray that collects water and can work as dehumidifiers. The AC unit automatically turns off, when the water bucket fills up.Spot Coolers
Spot coolers run at 15000 BTUs and are the heavy-duty models of portable air conditioners. They are the most powerful of compact options and are suitable for many things. Most people prefer to use them in a more permanent location as a workshop or a garage. However, they are perfectly suitable for camping as well, you just need to be willing to put in the heavy lifting and some set-ups.
Fans
If you camp in moderately hot regions, fans are the cheaper and less bulky option for you. They are battery-operated, some have power adaptors with a rechargeable battery, and some take standard batteries that you can buy anywhere.
Typically, such battery-powered units run on 12-volt batteries. One of the greatest things about these is the fact that you can charge them with the standard 12V adapter that’s found in most cars. Battery-powered fans are great for small tents (2-6 p) and have a battery life of 10 hours on as low as 40W.
Such units usually weigh somewhere from 10 to 70 lbs., but that is not related to their performance and efficiency. The weight is an essential factor when it comes to portability. When we talk about performance, though, each unit has different abilities. As fans are suitable for smaller tents and not so hot areas, they also tend to be cheaper than powered A/C units.Ice-cooler fans
Ice cooler fans are definitely something interesting. Generally, they are battery operated cooling units that use ice to cool your small tent, garage, room, etc. It can be refreshing, a bucker or any type of container that will hold the ice. A fan blows air through the ice and out of a hole in the side.
These fans are a good option if you want to cool a small place for a short period. If you are camping for one or two weeks, though, these are not something you should consider using. The biggest downside they have is the fact that you have to keep charging the batteries and refilling the ice.
Best Tent Air Conditioners for Camping Comparison Chart
PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
---|---|---|---|
hOmeLabs 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner |
| View On Amazon | |
Frigidaire FFRA0511R1 Mini-Compact Air Conditioner |
| View On Amazon | |
Honeywell MO08CESWK Compact Portable Air Conditioner |
| View On Amazon | |
JHS 10,000 BTU Powerful Portable Air Conditioner |
| View On Amazon |
Tent Air Conditioners for Large Spaces
When it is a two-week trip that you plan to do, electricity is something you will surely want to have. When the weather is unbearable, you won’t have to feel as if you are a melting ice-cream for you will be able to use a tent air conditioner. These are our suggestions, and they are not arranged in any particular order because they are all good.
1. hOmeLabs 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
This air conditioner is an outstanding choice for your tent, a small living room, a bedroom, etc. It has
5000BTUs of cooling power and can chill indoor spaces that are up to 150 square feet. The unit features seven temp settings, therefore has excellent cooling flexibility. The two-way air direction control and low or high fan speeds are also features that make this product a good option.
The hOmeLabs 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner comes with a mounting kit that includes a filter, leaf guards, window seal foam, support brackets, and an installation guide. The cleaner you will get is a reusable eco filter that is easily cleaned. However, the fact that you need to clean the filter very often for your conditioner to work correctly is a disadvantage.
This product is designed for 110V/120V electrical outlets and is suitable for windows measuring between 23 – 36 inches wide, and 13 inches high. This hOmeLabs air conditioner can’t be used with extension cords and turns on and off manually.
Pros:
- 5000 BTUs cooling power
- Seven temp settings
- Two-way air direction
- Comes with a mounting kit
Cons:
- You need to clean the filter often
- Should not be used with extension cords
- Turns on and off only manually
2. Frigidaire FFRA0511R1 Mini-Compact Air Conditioner
This 5,000 BTU mini-compact air conditioner is a good choice if you want to cool a room that is big up to 150sq. It is designed for window-mounted installation and requires a standard 115V electrical outlet. The product comes with a window mounting kit with side panels extend, so the investment is secure. The window where you plan to use this unit should have a minimum height of 13 inches and a width of 23 to 36 inches.
Because of the dehumidification that is up to 1.1 pints per hour, the Frigidaire FFRA0511R1 is suitable for your bedroom, living room, garage, and tent. The product features 2 fan speeds, 2 cooling speeds, and 2-way air direction. You will not get a remote control as the rotary controls are mechanical, but that is to be expected with small air conditioners.
This air conditioner offers a low power start-up and a simple restart. However, the thermostat only turns the AC compressor off. So, unless you shut it off manually, the fan will be running even it has reached temp.
Pros:
- Compact
- 2 fan speeds
- 2 cool speeds
- Comes with a window mounting kit
Cons:
- The thermostat does not turn off the fan
- You don’t have a remote control
3. Honeywell MO08CESWK Compact Portable Air Conditioner
This Honeywell air conditioner may be small and compactable, but it also offers a powerful airflow. It can cool a room up to 350sq. With this unit, you get a washable dual filtration system that protects and extends the unit’s life. As the filters are washable, the maintenance of the air conditioner is easy, and you won’t need replacement filters. The product also has a Filter Clean Alert that reminds you when you need to clean the filter.
The Honeywell MO08CESWK Compact Portable Air Conditioner features a built-in dehumidifier that removes 44 pints for 24 hours with continuous drain option for unattended operation. A significant advantage this unit has is the remote control with digital display. This product also has 2 speeds, 24-hour energy-saving timer, and a digital humidistat.
The unit is portable and comes with smooth-gliding wheels. Still, for such a small product it tends to work way too loud, especially when AC function is working. You also need to be careful with the vent tube as it is sensitive.
Pros:
- A washable dual filtration system
- Filter clean alert
- Built-in dehumidifier
- 2 speeds
- Remote control
- Digital humidistat
Cons:
- Too loud
- Delicate vent tube
4. JHS 10,000 BTU Powerful Portable Air Conditioner
This unit can cool areas up to 220sq.ft. so it is a good option for your office, home and if you love camping- your tent. It is equipped with a 2018 upgraded compressor and has 10,000 BTUs. The JHS 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is powerful and can be used in three different modes- air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan.
This product features a 50.7 pints per day dehumidifier capacity and three fan speeds. However, if you cannot sleep when something is making noise around you, this unit may not be the most suitable for you. This air conditioner does not work quietly, and the plastic hose it comes with is hard to attach.
On the other hand, the product is equipped with two handles for smooth movement and 4 all-direction stainless castors. The remote control is another significant advantage as you will be able to control your environment with one touch of a button. The unit has sleep mode settings and a 24-hour programmable timer, so it is convenient. Keep in mind that this air conditioner fits windows 17.7-57″ wide. And includes a washable carbon air filter.
Pros:
- Portable
- Three different modes
- Three fan speeds
- Remote control
Cons:
- The installation is not that easy
- Noisy
Best Tent Fans (for Personal Tents)
We recommend these products for small size tents (2-6 people). Tent fans are used often, as they are an easy solution for cooling your tent. These are the most reliable units you could find on the market nowadays, they are not arranged in any specific order, and you can decide for yourself which one will satisfy your needs.
PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
---|---|---|---|
Dewalt CORDLESS MODEL |
| View On Amazon | |
Odoland Portable LED Camping Fan |
| View On Amazon | |
O2COOL 10-inch Portable Camping Fan |
| View On Amazon | |
OPOLAR Battery Operated USB Rechargeable Fan |
| View On Amazon |
1. Dewalt CORDLESS MODEL
The greatest thing about this device is that it can operate both with a cord and with a battery. However, the battery and charger are sold separately from the air conditioner itself. The Dewalt CORDLESS MODEL is suitable for working in an attic or any other small area. It is also a good option for small tents, just remember that it is not that powerful.
Actually, we could say that it is a one-person fan that runs a long time on a charge, which is excellent but does not throw much air- which is a drawback.
With this unit, you can choose from multiple hanging options- hand hooks, freestanding and wall mount. You are also able to control the speed you want. To get maximum productivity and less downtime, the Dewalt CORDLESS MODEL has no memory and virtually no self-discharge.
You will be happy to hear that this unit operates really quietly. This fan is also durable, so even if you drop it, the chance of breaking is small.
Pros:
- Corded and cordless operation
- Great battery life
- Durable
- Works quietly
Cons:
- It does not include an extension cord (in case you want to use one)
- The battery pack is sold separately
- Does not throw much air
2. Odoland Portable LED Camping Fan
The IMAGE Portable LED Camping Fan is both the beauty and the beast. This fan is an excellent option for camping as it features ultra-bright 18 individual low powered LED bulbs. With this product, you will surely find your way around the campsite.
The unit looks not only useful but also provides proper air circulation for it has low and high settings. The plastic the unit’s frame is made of, though, is weak and brittle. You need to be cautious not to drop the fan as it can easily break, even though it is said to be constructed with a military-grade.
This, however, should not stop you from liking the unit. There are many positions in which you could place the product, and the extremely lightweight build allows you to take the product on the go with ease. Two D batteries enable the fan to work for five hours in high-speed mode, for fifteen in low-speed mode, and for twenty hours for led light.
Pros:
- 18 individual low powered LED bulbs
- High and low settings
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Batteries are not included
- The plastic that the frame is made of is unreliable
3. O2COOL 10-inch Portable Camping Fan
This battery-operated camping fan is an excellent choice for camping, as it does not require a power source. The unit features the O2COOL’s patented fan blade design which will extend the life of your battery and also maximize the airflow.
The O2COOL 10-inch Camping Fan is easy to carry and store as it includes a built-in handle. It has 2 speeds and 3 light settings- low, high, and nightlight. A significant advantage is a fact that the lights rotate, providing direct and indirect lighting options.
The unit is stable, even on uneven surfaces as it features a base that can pivot independently. However, you will need 6-D batteries that are not included in the package. The unit isn’t shipped with an AC adapter, but if you use this for camping, you will probably not need one anyway. The air circulation of the fan is not that powerful, but for the price the unit has, it is more than enough.
Pros:
- Battery-operated
- Patented fan blade design
- Portable
- 3 light settings
- 2 speeds
- A base that can pivot independently
Cons:
- Batteries not included
- Does not come with an AC adapter
- The air circulation is not that powerful
4. OPOLAR Battery Operated USB Rechargeable Fan
This rechargeable fan uses the OPOLAR’s latest dynamic technology and gives you a maximal fan rotating speed of 3200 rpm. The airflow of the fan is good, and the unit is perfect for your camping adventures. You will also be able to fall asleep effortlessly as the product works quietly.
The 2200 mAh battery will give you from 3 to 13 working hours after a full charge. You also get 3 fan speeds – low, medium and high.
The OPOLAR Battery Operated USB Rechargeable Fan is suitable for outdoor activities and traveling as it is portable and compact (size – 3.94×1.58X5.9 inch; weight- 7.8 ounces). As the unit’s name suggests it is USB or battery-operated, and this is something most people love about this product.
However, the facts that the fan does not have a tilt option, and that the “on” button is easily activated are not that pleasing. The fan can also work by using an adapter. The adapter, however, is not included. On the bright side, you get a rechargeable battery and a USB cable.
Pros:
- Rechargeable battery
- Can be operated via USB
- Compact and portable
- 3200 rpm rotating speed
Cons:
- There isn’t an included adapter
- The “on” button is easily activated
- No tilt option
Camping Tent Cooler Buying Guide
Knowing how to keep your tent cool and which units you should choose according to the conditions you are going to camp in, is essential. Battery-powered fans and small portable ACs that you can use inside your tent are the two most used cooling methods. Therefore, our team has gathered all the useful information you need to know about both types in one place.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Battery Powered Fans for Small Tents
Let’s look at the few things you need to keep in mind when searching for a battery-powered fan for small tents.
Power and Battery Life
Energy is probably the number one deciding factor when choosing a fan for your tent. Battery-powered or operated fans are the most common. They are cheap, easy to replace and if you want to you can buy rechargeable battery packs. However, most of them are not that powerful and are suitable for small rooms and tents only. Mainly, battery-powered fans have a life of 10 hours on as low as 40W, which is energy efficient.
Speeds
Having speed options as a feature of your fan is always a good choice, especially when the weather fluctuates. This way if you feel too hot, or your friend feels too cold you can regulate the speed, and everyone will be happy.
Noise
Generally, battery-powered fans are not that noisy. Still, always look at the unit’s description. If you search for a product online, we would recommend reading the reviews and comments it has from other users. This way if the unit is too loud or better – works quietly, you would know.
AC Adapter
If your batteries run out and you can’t replace them for some reason, you may want your fan to have an AC adapter. However, you will need to have access to power.
Power Cord
As we talk about battery-powered fans, it is essential to know that some can operate with extension power cords. If you are going to have a source of power near you, and you decide to use a power cord, our team recommends that you use a waterproof one.
Portability
Size and weight are also two significant factors. If you are traveling light, a massive piece of metal or plastic will not be convenient to carry around. Also, the size of your fan should be suitable for your tent size. Battery-operated fans are not that big; however, there are such that may weigh a bit too much for their size, so be careful. Always read the product’s descriptions!
Material
Plastic is the most common material for battery-powered fans. Logically, plastic fans are lighter and easy to carry around. Therefore, they are suitable for hiking. But if durability is important to you, then we would recommend that you get yourself a metal, battery-powered fan. It is going to be heavier than plastic, but it will surely last longer. The material is always an important factor even if it is not fans but the best tent heaters or high ACs that we talk about.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Small Portable AC
Some camping mistakes are easy to make, and not having a small portable air conditioner when camping in hot areas, is one of them. Let’s look at the few things you will need to consider when choosing such an item.
BTUs
BTUs are vital for they show how powerful a unit is. You don’t want to get yourself an air conditioner that is too powerful for your small tent, as you will feel damp, cold, and miserable. And, on the other hand, you don’t need to get a unit that is too small and not at all suitable for your multi-room tent.
5000, 6000, and 8000 BTUs are the most ideal for camping. A good practice of thumb is that if you want to cool 150 square foot space comfortably, 5000 BTUs would be the most suitable solution.Setup
Depending on the type and brand of air conditioner you choose, the setup process may be quite involved or super easy. A powered AC requires a constant power source and sometimes venting. Think about the place where you are going to camp, and if there is a power source there. If the response is negative, you might need to think about getting a battery-operated fan.
Power Source
In general, air conditioners consume quite a bit of power. It is a fact that cooling and heating account for 48% of the annual energy consumption in households in the US.
House power is the best way to power a portable tent air conditioner. In other words, you need to find a campsite that has a reliable power source that you could use with a cord and plug.
You have another option as well- a portable generator. Such a unit, however, will work only for a night or two until it needs a new charge. If you can’t recharge it regularly, a portable generator is not a good option for longer camping adventures.Ventilation
If your AC powered cooling unit has a condensation runoff, then venting is something you need to think about. Without ventilation, the humid air will cover the inside of your tent with sweat.
You may have to cut a hole in your tent if there isn’t one specially made for ventilation. However, if butchering your tent does not sound appealing you can always open the door of your tent for ventilation. Remember that there are also some high-quality ventless air conditioners available.Portability
Camping is perfect for relaxing and staying away from the busy town for a few days. When it’s time for setting up and breaking down the campsite, however, things can get a bit irritating. If you are going to sleep in your tent for 1 or 2 nights, adding a massive amount of weight to your luggage is unnecessary.
Having a big, powerful AC unit is okay but only if you have a multi-room tent and you plan on using it for more than 2 days. If that’s not the case, then you will need to get yourself a small portable AC unit that is quickly moved around and will not add another 50-pounds to your already heavy camping gear.
Noise
Don’t get disturbed by the fact that an air conditioner is small. This does not mean that it will work quietly as well. Some AC units make a lot of noise and even if the temperature in your tent is not fifty degrees you still may not be able to sleep because of the sound your product makes. Look for air conditioners that have quiet operation. Most of the times this is written in the product description. If you look at products online, our team recommends that you look for comments on the noise in the review section.
Warranty
This is a factor of great importance. Always be careful with the fine print that’s included in guarantees because not all warranties are created equal. This applies to all products on the market. It is not essential if you look for a fine purifier for allergies, a reliable air purifier for mold, or for a new hairdryer- the warranty is a crucial factor.
Brand and Reviews
Look for units that are manufactured from well-known brands. We agree that this does not always mean that the product will be incredible, but if something happens, you will at least have a solid warranty and a bigger retail network.
In the reviews of a product, you can find negative and positive opinions. This is an excellent way to ensure yourself know what to expect. For this reason, always read the reviews a particular product has.Price
Sometimes an expensive unit does not mean better quality. And sometimes a cheap product to expect an awful product. Still, if you want a reliable product that will not break after the first use, you may have to spend some more bucks.
Benefits of Using Battery Powered Fans for Small Tents
As electric box fans, battery-powered fans are also small but have many advantages. Let’s look at what makes these products so great:
Portability
Battery-powered fans are excellent for hiking, camping, etc. They are lightweight so you will not wish to throw away your luggage while walking. They are also small, so they are perfect for tents.
No need for a power source
Sometimes camping means no power source, and a fan that is battery powered can be a lifesaver. But the best part is that they can be run not only on batteries but also via a USB connection to your laptop or, if you have access to it, via electricity (a standard 110V outlet).
Helpful features
Features such as LED lights are always something useful, especially when camping. If you forget your flashlight, you can use your fan to find your way through the campsite.
Installation
Another great thing about these products is the fact that they do not require installation. You just get them out of the box and use them.
Drawbacks of Using Battery Powered Fans for Small Tents
Just like every other thing in the world, these units have their disadvantages. Keep reading if you want to find them out.
Small areas only
As their name hints, they are not suitable for large areas. Most of these products are one person on y. This, however, should not necessarily be a disadvantage. If you have a small tent, and there is no need for buying a big AC, then it is perfectly reasonable to look for a battery-powered fan for your small tent.
Durability
This, of course, cannot be said for all battery-powered fens, but as they are cheaper, smaller and not that powerful, they also tend to be less durable than ACs and other cooling devices.
Benefits of Using Small Portable AC
Did you know that small portable AC units are not only powerful but can also work as dehumidifiers?! Just continue reading to find out all about the advantages of portable air conditioners.
Power
While portable fans are great for your small tent, portable ACs are an excellent choice for your bigger one. Also, if you plan to go camping for a more extended period, recharging the battery of a fan every 5 hours or so, may get irritating. A useful characteristic that portable ACs have is the fact that they can cool spaces up to 400 square feet at 12000. They don’t need charging- you just need to clean them regularly.
They can work as dehumidifiers
If you look for a dehumidifier for your basement, a small portable AC may do the job for you. Most of these devices have an internal tray that collects the water. They automatically turn off when the water bucket is filled up.
Clean air
You may not know that, but some portable air conditioners have air filters that can purify the air by removing allergens. This is a significant advantage, especially if people with respiratory disorders are going to use the unit.
Easy installation
There is nothing better than using a home appliance right out of the box. Well, this is pretty much the situation with portable air conditioners. They are not hard to install, and you won’t need screws and other fixing materials. Creating an exhaust vent for the condensed air to pass out of the room is the only thing you will need to do.
Costs
Such devices are used for economic reasons as well. Central air conditioning systems can be costly to run, mainly if they are meant to cool your entire house. Portable air conditioners are great supplements to central air conditioning systems. There may be days when you will need to cool one or two rooms only, and portable air conditioners will do just that.
Drawbacks of Using Small Portable AC
Yes, small portable ACs had an easy installation but compared to fans they are definitely more complicated. And what about the noise, ventilation, and water management? Let’s look at all the cons a small portable AC has:
Weight
Yes, small portable ACs are indeed small and compact, but they are heavier and harder to carry around when compared to battery-powered fans. You should not be worried, though, as most portable air conditioners have wheels and you can easily maneuver them around.
On the other hand, mobility is something relative. When compared to fans, portable ACs are heavier and harder to move, but when compared to window air conditioners, a portable AC is more accessible to maneuver.Ventilation
Ventilation is super important when it comes to using an AC unit while camping. You may need to cut a hole in your tent for the sweat made by the humid air to disappear. However, this isn’t necessarily a disadvantage because your tent may already have a hole made especially for ventilation or you can always choose to use your door instead.
Noise
These products tend to create more sound than other conditioner systems since each component resides in the same single unit.
Water management
An air conditioner is able to pull the moisture from the air in the room, while at the same time formulating a comfortable atmosphere and dehumidifying the room. The moisture removed from the space, however, needs to be discarded somewhere.
For this reason, you will need to place your portable AC near a window or a similar location that will allow the water to flow out of the room. This happens via a hose that is connected to the unit. Some AC models have a pan inside, that fills with water and needs to be emptied.Placement restrictions
While the installation of such a device is straightforward, two aspects put limits on the placement options. We already mentioned the water management. The second aspect is the plug-in system. You have to put the unit in an area where you can plug it in.
Tent Cooling Safety Tips
Safety is essential no matter the field. Since we are talking about cooling and heating devices here, safety matters even more. We thought you might find these tips useful and exciting. Take a look!
Tips On How to Use a Battery Powered Fan for Camping
These are some of the duties you might need to do when using a battery-powered fan while camping.
- Stay hydrated
Family camping with tent fans can be so much fun, but still, you need to be very careful when using cooling devices. While using a fan on a hot day, it is a good idea to stay hydrated. Fans can cause the body to lose fluids more quickly, and you need to think about your health. - Battery power
The longer your fan works, the more current you will need. Therefore, you need to make sure you bring enough battery power for your trip. If the fan stops when you need it, and there is no way of recharging its battery… well, let’s just say that it will not be fun. - Direct sunlight
As battery-powered fans are not that powerful as AC units, you need to do everything you can to keep your tent cool. Keeping the shelter away from direct sunlight is the first step to undertake. This way your fan will cool the space faster. Also, an AC unit pad may help you to keep your AC clean. Check our AC unit pad reviews for the best options. - Mosquitos won’t be a problem
Mosquitos and other flying insects cannot hover in the breeze, so they are unable to land on you and bite you. Still, take your insect repellent with you if you plan to camp around an area known for the mosquitos.
Tips On How to Use a Small Portable Air Conditioner for Camping
In this section, you can find some helpful tips on how to use your small portable AC while camping.
- AC port
If you choose a tent that has an AC port, make sure that it is positioned in the right place – on the side of the bottom part of your tent. - Ventilation
Make sure that you have ventilation holes. The excellent ventilation will direct the hot air from the compressor and out of the tent. This will prevent your AC unit from overheating and the temperature in the tent from going up. - Keep the exhaust hose straight.
Your unit will have a harder time with ventilation if the hose is long and twisted. - Clean and replace your filters regularly.
By doing so, you won’t only ensure proper operation and cooling but will maintain your indoor air quality.
What Type of Tent is Suitable for Battery Powered Fans?
As battery-powered fans are small units, they are a good option for small tents. Tents for 2-6 people are the most suitable for such a device.
A fan is a good option for tents that don’t ventilate well, due to walls with no windows or a ceiling with a limited screen netting.
What Type of Tent is Suitable for an AC Unit?
AC units are suitable for bigger tents. Depending on your stock, you may need to find shelter with an AC port.
A portable air conditioner is an excellent choice for multi-room tents.
Here’s How You Can Make Your Tent AC Friendly
- Measure the air conditioner, especially the suction and the airflow areas, and cut the tent’s canvas so these areas access the inside of the tent.
- Buy and tailor a protective cover for the AC unit.
Once you make all the necessary modifications, plug in the air conditioner in a high-output power cord to avoid overheating. Turn on the air conditioner and enjoy the cool air.
5 Portable Air Conditioning Tips for Camping
If you like to go camping but your next destination is situated in a very warm area, you might need a portable air conditioner. Besides the refreshing cooling effect, an air conditioner will also dehumidify the air, further increasing your comfort.
Some campers will stare and point at you when they’ll see you’re using an air conditioner when camping but don’t worry, only those that don’t know the benefits will.
Keep the AC Outside The Tent
One of the downsides of a portable air conditioner is that it generates heat. Normally, that’s not a big problem, but in a tight space like a tent, the generated warmth will make you uncomfortable is space. When you use a portable air conditioner in a room, you can place it in various spots near the exhaust, but space is limited in a tent. You can place the air conditioner in the small entryway if space permits it, but it’s better to place it outside. Some tent models have one or two holes specially designed for an air conditioner, but most don’t.
Use Small Air Conditioners
If you don’t want to modify your tent, you can always use tiny portable air conditioners. These will fit in your tent without any kind of trouble. If your tent has more than one room, it’s better to place the AC unit in the small hallway so that the cool air will be distributed somewhat evenly between the rooms.
Use Vehicle Lighter Outlets
Some portable air conditioners can be adapted to use vehicle lighter outlets by using a cord. This will allow you to use the car’s battery as a power source, so you won’t have to bring an additional battery.
Use A Battery Powered Air Conditioner
Battery power is not the cheapest way to run an air conditioner, but it’s a viable option. If you can’t place the tent near your car and you don’t have an additional battery you can use, some models allow you to use alkaline batteries. While a single set of alkaline batteries probably won’t last you through the night, you can always store more. They’re not very expensive, and you can always buy bulk.
Use The Window Kit For Installation
When you buy a portable air conditioner, it’s delivered with a window kit. If you want to place the AC inside the tent, you can use the window kit to lead the exhaust outside the canvas through a window, the ceiling, or a wall.
Alternative Solutions for Keeping Your Tent Cool
These are some other tips for staying cool on summer camping trips;
Digging
If you place your tent partially underground, you will keep it colder. So, if you are able to, dig a pit that is around two feet deep and place your tent there.
Wind Direction
Set your tent in such a way that the wind can blow right into your mesh windows. Also, keep your windows open throughout the day. This way the heat can be extracted.
Ice
If you use a fan, put a block of ice directly in front of it. Use a bucket or some sort of a dish. This way your air will feel cooler. Make sure that the plate is large enough to hold the water when it is melted or just empty it from time to time.
Reflective Tarp
Reflective tarp and reflective space blanket are things that you could use to make a sunshade. Place a couple of them on the roof of your tent or tie them to the trees that surround your tent, leaving a few feet between the layers. This way, they will reflect the sun away from the shelter and minimize the heat.
DIY air conditioning units
Did you know that you could make an air conditioner by using a simple fan and two plastic soda bottles? If you love creating things, then you will enjoy making your own air conditioner. There are many DIY AC units, so you will surely have a choice.
Wrap Up
Well, guys, the hardest part is over. Now you know everything about how to choose the best tent air conditioner and the best tent fan. With our tent air conditioners for camping reviews, you will surely find the most suitable product, and with our tips and information, you will use it properly.
If you do agree, and you find our article useful and intriguing, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Also, if there is something you would like to share with us, do not hesitate to send us an email or write us a comment.
Our mission is to help our readers find the most reliable units for their household. Therefore, we have many other articles devoted to choosing a high-quality product. Make sure that you see some free time and go check them out as well! Thanks for reading, and as always – stay put!