Tent heater safety checker
The calculator needs JavaScript. The worked example, sum and figures below show exactly how it works, so you can do it yourself. A guide, not advice.
Short answer
Choose the appliance you are considering to see the relevant reminders. Never use a portable gas, liquid-fuel or solid-fuel appliance inside a tent, awning or porch: it can produce carbon monoxide. A permanent gas fixture needs correct installation and maintenance by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This checker cannot assess or certify any appliance or set-up.
Worked example
| You enter | Value |
|---|---|
| What appliance are you considering? | Portable gas, liquid-fuel or solid-fuel heater, stove, BBQ or lantern |
| I have checked the appliance maker's instructions | No |
| The campsite permits this appliance | No |
Do not use a portable fuel-burning appliance inside a tent, awning or porch.
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Guidance | Do not use a portable fuel-burning appliance inside a tent, awning or porch. |
| What to do | Use it outdoors in the open air, or choose warm clothing and a suitable sleeping system instead. |
Show the working
- Appliance selected: portable-fuel
How it works
- Portable fuel-burning appliances are not for use inside a tent, awning or porch
- A permanent gas fixture requires correct installation and maintenance by a Gas Safe registered engineer
- Check the maker's instructions and campsite rules for any appliance
This checker cannot assess an appliance or heating set-up. Never use a portable combustion appliance in a tent, awning or porch.
Our figures (adjustable)
These are our planning allowances and, once checked, typical figures with their sources. They aren't facts about your kit: change any of them in the calculator.
This calculator has no built-in defaults: every figure comes from you or your kit's own label.
What to buy
Shopping links will appear here once our retailer partners are confirmed. We don't rank kit by testing it: see our spec-based kit guides.
FAQs
Can I use a portable gas heater in a tent if I leave the door open?
No. Do not use portable fuel-burning appliances in a tent, awning or porch. Use them outdoors in the open air and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
What if my tent has a fitted heater?
Only use a permanent fixture that was installed and is maintained correctly by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Follow the appliance instructions and campsite rules.
Guides that use it
Camping safety basics
Camping safety basics for UK families: plan ahead, cook outdoors, keep gas out of the tent and know how to get help from your pitch.
How to keep a tent warm without a gas heater
Keeping a tent warm without a flame heater: sleep setup, dry layers, when mains electric heating may be allowed, and why stoves stay outside.