Spending time in a hot tent can be a real nightmare. We chose the hOmeLabs 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner as the best tent air conditioner as it keeps the temperature cool in a hot and big tent so you can enjoy your time to the maximum. Moreover, you can also activate the dehumidifier function to feel more relaxed.
Being an outdoor fan doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t make use of new technologies. Packing a tent air conditioner for your upcoming camping trip will change your life. You can sleep better and feel more refreshed regardless of the condition of the weather.
In this article, we’ll review 6 of the best air conditioners that you can pack for your next outdoor adventure. We’ll also answer all the questions that you need to ask before buying one.
- hOmeLabs 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
- Frigidaire FFRA0511R1E 5, 000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner
- MIDEA MPF10CR81-E Portable Air Conditioner BTU Easycool AC
- JHS 8,000 BTU Small Portable Air Conditioner
- COSTWAY Air Cooler and Heater
- EdgeStar AP12000HS Portable Air Conditioner
Reviews of the Best Tent Air Conditioners
Camping in hot or humid weather should never be a problem as long as you’ve got the right air conditioner to install in your tent. Check out our top picks.
Experience a refreshing and relaxing day with the help of this unit as it can cool an area between 450 and 600 square feet. This is an excellent air conditioner for bigger tents and hot weather because it’s powerful enough with 14000 BTUs. At the same time, it stays quiet so you can sleep calmly at night.
Equipped with a vertical swing function, it will guarantee better air distribution. It’s quite easy to install and comes with built-in wheels that allow you to move it with no issues. The installation process can be completed in 8 minutes as long as you have an adequate window in your tent.
At the same time, this air conditioner works as a dehumidifier that keeps you fresh in challenging weather. It comes with a washable air filter that should be cleaned regularly. The remote control allows you to control all the functions without leaving your bed. Whether you want to change the fan speed, cooling temperature, or activate the eco-friendly mode while sleeping, you can do this using the remote control.
It’s quite heavy as it weighs 72.3 pounds and is more expensive than other air conditioners. Nevertheless, it’s an excellent investment as it holds the temperature and can be used at home after you’re back from your camping trip.
PROS
- Powerful unit for bigger tents and bad weather.
- Dehumidifier function.
- Fast installation.
- Built-in wheels and remote control.
- Improved air distribution thanks to the vertical swing function.
CONS
- More expensive than other models.
This is a compact yet practical window-mounted air conditioner that can be used in your tent. The 5000 BTUs are enough to keep a medium-sized tent cool as it can work in a room that measures up to 150 square feet. Moreover, it dehumidifies the air for more comfort at a rate of 1.1 pints per hour
Starting up this unit doesn’t take much power, and its silent operation makes it an excellent choice for outdoor use. It’s not noisy being a compressor unit, and won’t keep you awake at night. It features a filter with an antibacterial mesh that keeps bacteria away.
Mechanical rotary controls allow you to manage the cooling and fan speed. The 2-way direction control will enable you to direct the airflow towards you. This air conditioner requires a standard 115V electrical outlet and is quite easy to install.
Carrying this unit to the campsite might be a bit challenging as it weighs 41 pounds and has no wheels. It doesn’t have a remote control or a timer, and it’s pretty basic. However, after you’re back home, you can easily use it in any room.
PROS
- Silent operation.
- Rotary controls for the cooling and fan speed.
- 2-way air direction.
- Easy to install.
CONS
- Doesn’t have a timer or remote control.
- Quite heavy.
Spending time with your friends and family will be more enjoyable once you bring this air conditioner along. The 10000 BTUs are designed for a bigger tent and hotter days. At the same time, you can customize the fan and dehumidification operation to keep your tent more comfortable.
Easy to read digital controls allow you to customize the settings whenever you like. You can adjust the speed, timer, or simply use the dehumidification function while you’re sleeping. Moreover, there’s a light indicator that tells you that it’s time to clean the filter.
You can easily install it to the door or window of your tent. It arrives with an LED remote control that you can use when you’re relaxing. Moreover, you can switch off the lights on the panel to guarantee that you won’t be disturbed at night. The unit comes with wheels, so you don’t have to carry it around as it weighs 65.3 pounds.
This is a smart unit with lots of features as it adjusts the cooling temperature based on your distance from the air conditioner. The filter can be washed and reused, saving you some cash in the long run. However, this unit is a bit noisy.
PROS
- Powerful enough to cool bigger tents.
- Remote control to adjust speed, fan, and timer settings.
- Light indicator for filter replacement.
- Built-in wheels for easy transport.
- Reusable filter.
CONS
- Noisy operation.
Whether you want to cool your tent or keep it dry, this will work as it comes with 8000 BTUs. It’s a good choice for a larger tent, and it has three different functions; air conditioner, dehumidifier, and a fan.
The digital LED panel and the programmable timer will help you adjust the operation according to your needs. You can set the 24-hour timer to turn it on and off based on your sleeping hours. If you’re going on a hike, you can set the unit to work, so your tent feels cool by the time you’re back.
In the sleep mode, it increases and holds the temperature for sound sleep. This unit is straightforward to install and comes with 4 stainless steel castors and one handle for portability. It weighs 44 pounds.
With a built-in self-evaporation system, most of the water will be recycled to keep the temperature cool. When the water tank is full, a light will let you know that it’s time to drain it. There are manual and automatic draining options.
Although this is quite noisy, you can lower the fan speed to keep it quieter while you’re sleeping. The window installation process is divided into 4 steps, and the filter can be cleaned using water or a vacuum cleaner every month.
PROS
- Can cool up a large tent.
- 24-hour programmable timer.
- Remote control and built-in wheels.
- Special sleep mode for more comfort.
- Notifies you when the water tank is full.
CONS
- Noisy unit.
If you’re looking for a multifunctional unit, then this is the one for you. It can be used to cool the air, heater, fan, dehumidifier, and air purifier. You can use it while camping in any weather condition as it regulates the temperature according to your needs.
Reducing the temperature of the air inside your tent with the power of water evaporation, you’ll never feel uncomfortable regardless of the weather condition. The unit releases anions to remove the airborne pollutants so you can breathe fresh and clean air. It removes dust, unpleasant odors, smoke, and other irritants for maximum convenience.
Customizing this unit is easy as you can switch between 3 fan modes and speeds, while the swing feature guarantees better air distribution. Moreover, the 8-hour programmable timer allows you to operate it according to your sleeping hours. There are 2 ice-crystal boxes that enhance cooling, especially in scorching weather.
It features a user-friendly LCD control that shows all the data so you can set the speed, time, and mode. You’ll also receive a remote control to use when you want to adjust the operation of the unit.
There are 4 caster wheels that allow you to move it comfortably, although it’s a lightweight model that weighs 17 pounds. The air conditioner is a bit challenging to operate as it doesn’t come with clear instructions. It cools your tent but might not hold the temperature for long.
PROS
- 5-in-1 unit.
- Ability to control fan speed and mode.
- 8-hour programmability.
- LCD control.
- Lightweight model with 4 wheels.
CONS
- Instructions are confusing.
- Doesn’t hold the temperature for long, especially in challenging weather.
Depending on the heat load, this unit can be used to cool up to 250 square feet thanks to its 12000 BTUs. The thermostat can be adjusted, and the temperature is displayed in Fahrenheit or Celsius degrees.
It works as a heater and dehumidifier that dehumidifies up to 81 pints per day. This air conditioner is an excellent choice for campers as it can be used in hot or cold weather. Thanks to its quiet operation, this unit can be placed in any tent without disturbing campers while they’re relaxing or sleeping.
To make sure that you’re breathing clean and fresh air, this unit features a carbon filter in addition to the regular washable pre filter. The carbon filter can be replaced as needed.
In most cases, you won’t have to drain the unit manually. Thanks to the automatic drain system, the water is recycled to enhance the cooling function using the self-evaporating technology. Controlling the fan speed is easy as you can choose between 3 settings, and even operate the fan on its own without the cooling setting.
This smart unit holds your settings, so you don’t have to readjust it every time you switch it on. It comes with a 24-hour timer that allows you to use it while you’re sleeping. There are wheels that will enable you to transport it quickly as it weighs 69 pounds.
The unit tends to leak, especially when it’s working at full force, so you must make sure that it’s not placed next to your gear.
PROS
- Versatile unit that can be used to heat or cool the air.
- Dual filtration to keep the air clean.
- Saves your settings.
- 24-hour timer.
CONS
- Might leak.
Stay Cool While Camping
If you’re going camping in hot weather, buying a tent air conditioner will be the best investment to make. Even if it’s not scorching hot, after a long day of trekking and hiking, you need a cool tent where you can result for the night.
Most people tend to feel hot at night that it might deprive them of sleeping soundly. You might wake up feeling tired and unable to engage in fun activities with other campers.
While putting the tent in a shady place might help, it won’t do much to the humidity and the extra heat that might make the tent unbearable, especially at night.
Why Should You Buy the Best Tent Air Conditioner?
Although a tent air conditioner might be expensive, it’s an essential accessory that can make your outdoor adventure much more enjoyable. Here are some reasons why people should think about buying a portable conditioner for their camping trips.
- A battery-powered or electric fan can be enough in moderately hot weather. However, some people are sensitive to the heat, and they need something more powerful, especially if the weather is extremely hot.
- An air conditioner prevents the accumulation of water vapor that leads to discomfort and fatigue. As a result, you’ll always feel comfortable while spending time away from home.
- Some people might not be able to sleep comfortably despite being tired because the tent might feel too hot at night. An air conditioner will solve this problem.
- Staying safe while spending time away from home is crucial, especially when there’s no fast access to medical help. An air conditioner eliminates the risk of heat strokes that people might experience due to excessive loss of water from the body.
- Air conditioners can decrease the humidity significantly in your tent, even when the temperature drops for a few degrees. This will allow your natural cooling system to work better as your body releases sweat to get rid of the extra heat.
What are the Types of Tent Air Conditioners Available?
When you’re shopping for a tent air conditioner, there are two types available that you should think about.
Window Air Conditioners
These are more suitable for bigger tents and extremely hot weather. Window air conditioners have a bigger cooling capacity, but they’re more challenging to install. You might need to make a few adjustments by cutting through the window or the door.
Portable Air Conditioners
These are easier to install and can be set up wherever you like. Nevertheless, you’ll need a reservoir that collects the water fast, especially on hot days when you’re likely to use the air conditioner more often. Portable units are more cumbersome and usually more expensive.
How to Choose the Best Tent Air Conditioner
To enjoy your camping adventure to the maximum, you must make sure that you’ve bought the right tent air conditioner. Here are some factors to think about before buying one.
Power
Remember that you’re in the wild, so you won’t have a centralized cooling system or easy access to an electric source. If you can’t pack a generator, then you should see that your campsite has an electrical hookup. Most tents have an E-port that allows you to power several electric devices, including an air conditioner.
If this is not possible, you should choose a battery-powered air conditioner. Battery-powered models don’t last that long, so you’ll need to pack extra batteries or a charger. Once the tent is cool enough, you can decrease the temperature of the air conditioner to help the battery last longer.
Battery-powered models are more suitable for smaller tents. If you’re spending time with a group of campers, an electric-powered air conditioner will be more appropriate.
Weight
The weight of the air conditioner isn’t a big issue when you’re installing one at home, but when you’re going camping, it will be. A smaller air conditioner might not be that powerful, but it will be easier to carry around. Generally speaking, window air conditioners are less cumbersome and can be carried easily.
BTUs
This refers to the power of the air conditioner and accordingly, how potent it will be at keeping your tent cool. Most tent air conditioners can cool an area between 50 to 250 square feet. For an average-sized tent that accommodates four people, you can go for an air conditioner that has 5000 BTUs.
If you go for a lower rating, the tent won’t be comfortable enough. You can choose a BTU of 6000, 8000, or more depending on the size of the tent and the weather condition.
Extra Features
Some additional features will make your tent air conditioner more practical and better to use. These include a timer that can be set up according to your preferences. It allows the air conditioner to shut itself off when you no longer need it so you can reserve the battery or save the power of the generator.
To enjoy your time more, some air conditioners come with remote controls. You can operate the air conditioner at a distance, whether you’re outside the tent or sleeping on your mattress.
Having multiple fan speeds is another big plus. While some people might be interested in the high speed, some campers might be bothered by the air blown directly in their direction. Being able to control this setting allows you to choose the most comfortable option.
Tips for Using a Tent Air Conditioner
Now that you’ve bought a suitable tent air conditioner, you want to make sure that you’re making the best of it. Here are some tips to help you use it better.
- Make sure to clean the air filter regularly. The accumulation of dust and debris will affect the performance of the air conditioner and force it to work harder to keep your tent cool. You should also clean the evaporator and condenser fins.
- If you’re connecting your air conditioner to a generator or other power source, you should make sure that the cord has no gaps in the insulation. It should also have the right power rating.
- For your safety, unplug the unit if it starts to rain. Make sure that your hands are dry and that the air conditioner isn’t in contact with the wet ground. Cover the front panel to protect your unit from the rain.
- The right setup will help you get the best of the air conditioner. Pitch your tent in the shade because the heat from the sun makes your unit’s job extremely challenging.
- Other factors that affect the performance of your air conditioner include the number of people in the tent and its height. An underpowered unit is never a good option, even if it’s cheaper because you’ll eventually have to replace it.
- Invest in some insulation to help your tent cool off faster. In most cases, the fabric of the tent keeps the heat trapped, so it’s common to feel hot inside. A space blanket reflects the heat to facilitate the job of the air conditioner.
Conclusion
A hot climate doesn’t have to ruin your camping trip as long as you’ve got a good tent air conditioner to back you up. We chose the hOmeLabs 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner as our top pick as it’s strong enough to regulate the temperature in a big tent. Moreover, it has a timer and remote control for maximum convenience.
If you’re looking for a unit that fits in a small or medium-sized tent, you’d better consider the Frigidaire FFRA0511R1E 5, 000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner. It cools the air and works as a dehumidifier. It won’t keep you awake at night, thanks to its silent operation.
Although some campers might think that having a tent air conditioner is a luxury, in some weather conditions, it’s inevitable. There’s nothing better than coming back to a cool comfortable tent when you’re done with all the hiking and trekking. Check out the products on our list, and you’ll find the right unit for you.