You probably know the applications of air conditioners and dehumidifiers in commercial buildings and homes. But if you love experiencing your outdoor adventures to the fullest, you would love portable air conditioners for camping.
Portable air conditioners are a great option for outdoor activities. Depending on the activity, it can significantly enhance your experience by improving your safety. Every year, hundreds of people die from heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke. The risk is even higher for the older population.
In this post, we will review the best portable air conditioners for camping and their features. We will also look at how portable air conditioners can improve your camping environment.
But before all that, let's look at what a portable air conditioner is and the types available in the market.
What are Portable Air Conditioners?
A portable air conditioner, also known as a stand-up AC, is easy to move around. That's why people prefer them for camping. They are easy to lift, and those a little bit heavier have wheels at the base to ensure effortless relocation from one area to another. On top of that, they are simple and require practically no installation.Besides the camping functionality, they are equally handy for home and office settings.
Types of Portable Air Conditioners for Camping
Today's market is overflowing with various models and types of portable air conditioners for camping tents.
Here are some of the most common ones you are likely to encounter:
#1 Portable Electric Air conditioners
These air conditioners require a lot more effort to set up, which makes them more labor-intensive than battery-operated models, but they are more dependable. The primary challenge is finding a power outlet on camping grounds. That said, this category offers an extensive selection of models.
Although installing an electric air conditioner requires more work and money, the benefits are well worth the extra cost once it’s set up.
#2 Portable 12-Volt(Battery-operated) Air Conditioners
These units could be simple to assemble, but they are less dependable than their electric equivalents as they tend to be less powerful. They also typically possess less strength. One advantage of 12-volt portable air conditioners is their small size, making them ideal for usage in even the tiniest areas.
#3 Window Air Conditioners
Portable window air conditioners are like those found in our homes and offices. They can cool an area of approximately 150 square feet, or the size of an average-sized tent, with an energy consumption of roughly 5,000 BTU.
Ensure the tent is large enough and has space for a standard window air conditioner. For the unit to operate, there should be enough ventilation during installation.
#4 Small Portable Air Conditioners
In general, window air conditioners are less powerful than small portable air conditioners. Small portable air conditioners can cool a larger area—up to 400 sq. ft.—and use up to 12,000 BTU. These units can weigh up to 100 lbs. and are big. Most of the time, they are wheeled for convenience of mobility.
Ventilation is also necessary for this air conditioner; however, you only need a smaller hose. Most of these portable automobile air conditioners have a tray that collects condensed water and also functions as a humidifier. When the tray is full, it shuts down until you empty it.
#5 Spot Coolers
Spot coolers are more robust versions of tent air conditioners. They use up to 15,000 BTU, which explains why they have a rather high cooling capability.
Although they are mostly installed in more permanent areas like garages or workshops, they are great for those camping with RVs. But the results could be very satisfying if you can figure out how to move and set them up at a campsite.
What Features Should the Best Camping Air Conditioner Have?
Each camping air conditioner has its unique features. And as you can see, the list is not sleek. Therefore, you need some guiding parameters to decide which AC unit works for your camping needs.
Here are some things to keep in mind when comparing your choices:
#1 Portability and Size
In outdoor adventures, managing multiple items and gear is common. Therefore, the size and weight of your portable AC matter to ensure it doesn't weigh you down or eat up valuable space in your vehicle.
Consider your activities: Heavier units may offer more power but add bulk, while lighter ones sacrifice some cooling potency for increased mobility.
For stationary use in an RV, a heavier unit might be acceptable, but for frequent movement between campsites or parking lots, a lighter, more portable unit is preferable.
#2 Power Source
Portable air conditioners run on external AC/DC power, batteries, or a combination of both.
AC-powered units are good for campsites with power but not for off-grid scenarios.
DC-powered units are great for RVs because they use the vehicle's alternator but can use up power.
Most portable devices contain batteries inside, but users may need to recharge them.
To get the best results from your AC unit, you can think about using solar power or other alternatives.
#3 BTU Rating
The amount of heating or cooling power that HVAC equipment, such as air conditioners and space heaters, can provide is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs).
You can tell whether a certain air conditioner model is appropriate for the room you want to cool by looking at its BTU rating.
You'll need more BTUs from your unit to keep your space cool if your tent or RV is large.
#4 User-Friendliness
During a camping trip, dealing with a drained air conditioner or setting up complex ventilation systems can be a hassle. Consider how ventilation, drainage, and installation impact the ease of using your chosen AC unit.
Certain models offer adaptability with optional air duct adapters and a vent board, allowing usage within a tent equipped with air duct flaps. Others operate without the need for ventilation or drainage, providing effortless cooling once turned on.
For even greater ease, newer smart devices could additionally have smartphone app control or Bluetooth.
#5 Operational Duration
Imagine the serene moments in nature suddenly disrupted by an air conditioner shutting down, leaving you in humid discomfort and eagerly anticipating returning home.
To avoid this, you should carefully examine the runtime capabilities of your chosen AC and explore options to extend it, like connecting the unit to a portable power station. Assess how long the AC needs to run for your comfort and explore ways to expand that runtime.
In Summary
Having a reliable device to keep you cool and comfortable during your camping trip is absolutely wonderful. With a portable air conditioner, you no longer have to suffer through dangerously high temperatures or sacrifice your outdoor adventures. Even in the scorching heat of the day, by equipping yourself with an effective cooling solution. It's the perfect way to stay refreshed and make the most out of your camping experience.
Portable Air Conditioners FAQs
How can I keep cool without AC camping?
When camping without AC, you can keep cool by:
- Opt for shaded areas or spots near water bodies, as they naturally offer cooler temperatures.
- Maximize airflow using reflective tarps or canopies to shield from direct sunlight.
- Dress in light, breathable clothing.
Can I put a regular air conditioner in an RV?
Yes, you can put a regular air conditioner in an RV. However, regular air conditioners aren't designed for RV use due to differences in power requirements, size, and ventilation. There are RV-specific air conditioning units available that are more compact, energy-efficient, and designed to handle the vibrations and movements associated with traveling in an RV.
Do portable air conditioners use less electricity?
Compared to traditional central air conditioning systems, portable air conditioners tend to use less electricity. However, the exact energy consumption varies based on factors like the unit's size, BTU rating, and efficiency. Portable units consume power to cool the air and operate a fan, but they generally consume less electricity compared to larger fixed units.