Best Hot Tent UK | Stove Heated Shelters for Winter Warmth

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Hot Tent

Like I always say to my daughter, Lauren, before we embark on any camping adventure, preparation is key. And when it comes to winter camping, one of the things you need to prepare for is choosing the best hot tent. There are various factors to consider like ventilation, capacity, shape/size, and materials. Above all else is safety when it comes to having a hot stove in your tent with you. Let’s delve into some of these factors to make your choice easier starting with safety concerns.

The Safety Measures in Hot Tenting

First and foremost, it’s important to clear a space on the ground for your sleeping bag and other gear. This is particularly important for tents without a floor. This ensures that you are not on damp or uneven ground, which could pose a safety risk.

Another critical safety measure is to carefully arrange your gear inside the tent, ensuring nothing is too close to the stove or in its path.  We always ensure our gear is well-organised and away from the stove. It’s simple steps like these that will keep everyone safe on your camping adventures.

When setting up the stove and the flue, make sure all the gases will go up the flue and not seep out into the tent by double checking the connection points between stove and flue. Carbon Monoxide poisoning is rare and mostly occurs from BBQs brought into the tent rather than a purpose-built stove but it is wise to be aware of the dangers. The hot tents are fairly well ventilated and the flue will naturally draw the smoke and fumes up and out of the tent and well away from causing any danger.

Fire is also a risk factor. A heat mat will help reduce the risk of embers causing a fire and with all gear and sleeping equipment placed in a sensible position away from the stove, all should be well. We do highly recommend taking a fire extinguisher to have on hand when using a stove in a tent, for peace of mind or just in case.

Understanding the Temperature Dynamics of Hot Tents

It is important to understand the temperature dynamics of these tents to maintain optimal comfort. The use of a wood stove in a tent creates a warm and cosy environment, but the heat distribution can vary. The area closest to the stove will naturally be the warmest, while those further away will be cooler.

Another aspect to consider is that the outside temperature can also affect the tent’s internal temperature. On a particularly cold night, you might need to stoke the wood stove more frequently to maintain a comfortable temperature. It’s a delicate balance, but once you get the hang of it, you can enjoy a warm and comfortable camping experience in any weather. It’s one of those camping secrets I have learned over the years.

Quality of Material

The best hot tents with stove jacks are made of high-quality materials. These materials, most commonly canvas or Oxford, should be treated for fire retardancy. It’s not enough for the tent materials to be flame retardant, there should be a square of completely fire-proof material (stove jack) directly surrounding the stove pipe. This will enhance the safety of the tent, especially when the stove is in use. Oxford is a man-made waterproof fabric and is lighter in weight compared to canvas. Whereas polycotton versus polyester have their own properties as discussed in this article.  

The Relevance of Fire Mat

A fire mat is an important accessory when dealing with hot tents. This mat is typically placed under the stove pipe to catch any hot embers or sparks that escape from the stove, thus protecting the tent floor. The fire mat should also be made of fire retardant material, adding an extra layer of protection against fire hazards. 

Always remember that safety comes first. Using a fire mat is not just about protecting the tent floor, it’s about ensuring that your winter camping experience is safe and enjoyable. At Camping Secrets, we always emphasise the importance of safety and the fire mat is a perfect example of this.

Overall Durability

Another critical factor to consider when choosing the best hot tent is its overall durability. A high-quality tent should have a sturdy design that can withstand the harsh outdoor elements. Remember, when hot tenting, one of the biggest safety concerns is that your tent may blow over or be shaken enough that the hot stove will touch a flammable surface. So, invest in a tent designed to withstand such challenges. I always tell Lauren, “we don’t want our tent to turn into a giant kite when the wind blows, do we?”

The shape of the tent also plays a role in its durability. While any shape can be designed sturdily, some shapes may offer more stability and resilience than others. At Camping Secrets, we’ve tested various tent designs and can attest to the difference that the design can make in terms of durability and stability.

Size and Capacity

When considering the size and capacity of the tent, keep in mind who will be using it. For instance, if it’s just me and Lauren, a smaller tent would suffice. However, if we’re bringing along some of her friends, we’ll need a larger model. The key factor is that the tent should be big enough to accommodate everyone comfortably. So, if you buy a four-person tent, you should be able to have four people sleep in the tent at night without feeling like sardines in a can.

My advice from experience? Look for tents that come in multiple sizes. This way, you can choose the one that is most suitable for your needs when hot tent camping. Remember, size and capacity should match your camping party’s size to ensure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable winter camping experience.

Tent Shape and Its Implications

It’s remarkable how the shape of a tent can influence your camping experience. Moreover, a tent’s form significantly impacts its stability in different weather conditions. Round tents, like the yurt-styled ones, are particularly efficient at shedding wind and snow, making them suitable for winter camping.

The height of these tents also contributes to the ease of movement inside the tent. So, when you choose a tent, consider the shape carefully, as it has far-reaching implications.

Ventilation and Waterproofing

Equally crucial to the tent’s shape are ventilation and waterproofing features. The presence of multiple vents in a tent ensures a continuous supply of fresh air, a vital aspect when using a camping stove inside the tent. The ability to roll and fold areas for ventilation not only helps regulate temperature but also prevents condensation build-up.

However, while maintaining a warm interior, it’s essential to prevent water ingress that can dampen your sleeping bags and equipment. Therefore, a high waterproof rating is a must for any hot tent. Even though a stove can alleviate cold, it’s powerless against seeping water. So, always opt for tents with a great waterproof rating to ensure a dry and comfortable camping experience.

We have written a dedicated review on various waterproof sprays and the details that you should look out for when deciding which product to buy. Check out our page on waterproofing sprays. Don’t take our word for it, Winfields have a great article on waterproofing tents too. 

Different Types of Tents with Stove Jacks

Hot tents come in a variety of styles, each offering a unique camping experience. Whether you prefer traditional canvas tents like a bell tent, yurt or something more modern, there’s a hot tent out there to match your camping style. The inclusion of a stove jack in these tents transforms them into true hot tents, perfect for cold-weather camping. The fireproof material surrounding the stove jack ensures safety while providing warmth.

The key is to choose a tent that caters to your specific requirements. For instance, if you value portability, an ultralight tent might be your best bet. However, if you’re planning a family camping trip, like the ones we at Camping Secrets frequently organise, a larger tent with ample interior space would be more suitable. Remember, the type of tent you choose can make or break your camping experience.       

How to Safely Use Tents with Stove Jacks      

Using a tent with a stove jack is a great way to keep warm and comfortable when camping in cold weather. However, it’s important to use them safely to prevent accidents. Fire safety should be your top priority. The tent needs to be made of fire-resistant material and have proper ventilation to avoid a fire hazard. In addition, you should always have a fire extinguisher close by when using a stove in a tent, as I always remind readers of Camping Secrets.

Another key consideration is the position of the stove and the stove jack. They should be located in a place where they won’t pose a risk to the tent fabric or to the occupants of the tent. Also, make sure the stove is stable and won’t tip over. And finally, avoid leaving the stove unattended when it’s burning. These precautions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable winter camping experience.

The Installation Process of a Stove Jack in a Tent

Installing a stove jack in a tent is a task that requires care and attention. It’s not something you should attempt if you’re unsure about what you’re doing. Certain hardware is necessary for the installation, and it’s not a time for makeshift solutions. The tent material around the stove jack area must be fireproof to prevent the risk of a fire. If you’re confident and have the right tools, there are tutorials available to guide you through the process.

But remember, not all tents are suitable for installing a stove jack. The tent needs to be made of high-quality, fire-resistant material. Also, the tent’s design should allow for the safe position of the stove jack without posing a risk to the tent fabric or its occupants. If you’re unsure whether your tent is suitable, it’s best to consult an expert or opt for a tent that comes with a stove jack already installed.