4 Best Portable Air Conditioner for Camping
Camping is a wonderful way to enjoy the great outdoors, but when the temperatures rise, it can become uncomfortable and challenging to get a good night’s sleep. That’s where a portable air conditioner comes in handy.
Portable air conditioners are the perfect solution for camping or tenting! And if you are looking to buy a portable air conditioner for camping then you are at the right place.
I’ve done the research and rounded up the top 4 best portable air conditioners for camping. Take a look at our top picks for the best portable AC for camping:
#1 ZERO BREEZE Mark 2: The Best Air Conditioner for Camping
Pros:
- Portability: Weighs 16.5lb, highly portable for outdoor adventures.
- Battery-Powered: Operates without electricity, ideal for off-grid use.
- Versatile Charging: Solar and car charging options enhance adaptability.
- Dependable Cooling: Rechargeable battery offers 4–5 hours of cooling.
- Variable Wind Speeds: Four levels for customized air circulation.
- Low Noise: Operates quietly with a noise level of 54dB.
Cons:
- Long Charging Time: Takes around 6 hours and 9 minutes to charge fully.
- Limited Cooling Capacity: 2,300 BTU may not suffice for larger spaces.
- Higher Price: Relatively expensive compared to other portable units.
- Bulkiness: Somewhat bulky, and the handle design may be less ergonomic.
- Hose Insulation Needed: Lack of insulation on hot air exhaust hose.
- Specialized Adapter: Special power adapter may pose challenges if it breaks.
Having put the Zero Breeze Mark 2 to the test, I can genuinely vouch for its effectiveness in the great outdoors. This portable air conditioner is a true game-changer for camping enthusiasts. Its lithium-ion battery tech eliminates the need for power outlets, and at just 16.5lb, it’s a breeze to carry.
During my trial, the rechargeable battery delivered a solid 4–5 hours of cooling, but do note, it takes around 6 hours and 9 minutes to charge fully. What’s impressive is its adaptability — you can charge it via solar panels or in your car, perfect for off-grid adventures.
The device’s four wind speed levels ensure even air distribution, and at 54dB, the noise level is quite reasonable. While it’s pricier than other options, the Zero Breeze Mark 2 is a worthwhile investment with various models to suit different needs.
Keep in mind its 2,300 BTU cooling capacity; it’s not meant for large spaces, but it’s a lifesaver for smaller, well-insulated areas. If you’re after a reliable camping companion, this is it.
#2 BLACK+DECKER BPACT10WT
Pros:
- Compact in size
- Easy to transport
- Budget-friendly
- It operates quietly, producing noise levels under 57.8 dB
Cons:
- Not very efficient at cooling
The Black + Decker BPACT10WT Portable Air Conditioner is one of the best portable AC for camping, tenting and outdoor activities. It is extremely portable, weighs less, and comes with wheels for easy movement between locations during your camping trips. It is also compact in size, measuring just 16.5″D x 26″W x 11.5″H, which is considered an ideal size for camping air conditioners.
Moreover, it has a cooling capacity of 10,000 BTU suitable for cooling 250 square feet space. In terms of noise level, while testing this unit it recorded a noise level of 57.8 dB which is pretty low compared to other camping air conditioners on the market. It also features a remote control and LED display, so you can easily adjust temperature settings and program the unit to turn on and off at certain times.
This air conditioner has three fan speeds, which ensure that air circulates throughout your camping tent. The unit also features a self-evaporating system, meaning it recycles water for reuse without emptying.
The Black + Decker 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner has a number of features that make it convenient for camping. It has a built-in timer that allows you to set the desired temperature and have it automatically turn off once that temperature is reached.
Furthermore, we tested its cooling performance by placing it in a 180-square foot room that had a temperature of 70.7 degrees Fahrenheit and leaving it running for 60 minutes after the room temperature dropped to 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Just a drop of 6.7 degrees Fahrenheit, that’s pretty bad.
Despite this, we found it costs only $11.9 to run for 10 days while being used for 12 hours per day with 2 hours on high and 10 hours on low, so this is highly efficient.
Besides, the Black + Decker 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner includes a reusable air filter that is easy to remove and wash. It helps to increase the unit’s performance by reducing the amount of dirt and debris that may build up inside.
In short, the Black + Decker BPACT10WT is a reliable and convenient portable ac for camping trips. It is lightweight and compact, has a low noise level which ensures a peaceful camping experience. Overall, it is nice!
#3 Pro Breeze PB-AC01-US
Pros:
- User-friendly
- Wifi enabled
- Cost-effective
- Comes with wheels
Cons:
- Its noise level is similar to that of a fan.
- A bucket is needed to catch water from its hose.
The Pro Breeze PB-AC01-US is a compact portable air conditioner that is perfect for camping. This camping air conditioner is pretty lightweight, it weight is just 49.60lb allowing you to carry it with you wherever you need to go.
It’s easy to set up, requires no installation and has a straightforward control panel to adjust settings. Plus, it features a built-in timer that enables you to schedule the unit to turn on or off at specific times.
It also comes with a remote control. And what makes me surprising about this unit is that it is Wi-Fi enabled, which means you can control this air conditioner with SmartLife app with your smartphone. But while pairing this unit, it literally takes a lot of time and it can be confusing for you if you are doing it for the first time.
Along with Wi-Fi, you can also control it with voice commands, meaning it is compactable with Alexa and Google Assistant. This makes it easy to adjust the temperature and settings of this unit.
When it comes to performance, the Pro Breeze PB-AC01-US offers decent cooling power with two fan speeds and four different modes (cooling, fan, sleep mode and dehumidifying). However, the cooling it provides is not that great. It’s very similar to the previous Black + Decker BPACT10WT.
Also, its noise level is quite loud, we notice a noise level of 65.3dB which is more than the previous Black + Decker BPACT10WT. So if you are looking for the best yet quiet portable air conditioner for camping then it would be a good to not consider this.
Another issue we noticed while testing this unit is that the water is coming out of the unit’s hose and you need to place a bucket to catch the water. Furthermore, this tenting air conditioner is efficient at extracting moisture from the air, with a rate of 2.3 pints per hour in temperatures above 62°F. Plus, it is super cheap, currently, its price is just $399.99.
All in all, the Pro Breeze PB-AC01-US Portable Air Conditioner can be a good choice for camping trips. It has many convenient features, such as a digital display, Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control compatibility, and is capable of removing moisture from the air. However, it requires a large bucket to catch the water from the drainage hose and may not be the best option for those who are sensitive to noise.
But if you are just hunting for a cheap solution for you camping trips then this unit may be a good fit for you. But I let you know that it costs more than the Black+ Decker BPACT10WT, so it would be good to consider that instead. However, if you want to buy this unit then the link is given below.
#4 SereneLife SLPAC8 Portable Air Conditioner
Pros:
- Its price is just around $350
- Compact and portable design
- Efficient
- Rated for 4.4 on Amazon
Cons:
- Can be noisy when running at high speeds
If you are hunting for a lightweight, affordable and easy-to-transport air conditioner, the SereneLife SLPAC8 is a great option. This portable air conditioner weighs in at 46.3 pounds, but still packs a punch with 8,000 BTUs of cooling power. Which can provide cooling up to 215+ square feet of space.
The SereneLife SLPAC8 Portable Air Conditioner features a user-friendly LED display and is equipped with convenient wheels for effortless mobility. Plus, this unit includes a built-in dehumidifier capable of removing up to 1.2 liters of moisture per hour, that’s pretty good, making it an ideal choice for hot, humid environments.
By the way, this unit consumes 120 volts of power, so this can be a problem when taking it camping as some budget-friendly generators may not provide that much power. But if you have a generator that provides enough energy then you have nothing to worry about. However, it is quite noisy, we tested it running on high and we noticed 63 dB of noise in the decibel meter. This is not good because the noise level of the air conditioner for camping should be less than 60dB.
As we tested the cooling performance of the SereneLife SLPAC8 Portable Air Conditioner, we found it to be highly effective. In just one hour, this unit was able to reduce the temperature of the room by 10.2 degrees Fahrenheit, Impressive!
Its efficiency was also noteworthy, we tested its efficiency, and calculated that the SereneLife SLPAC8 Portable Air Conditioner consumed an average of $11.9 in energy costs for 10 days, during which we ran the unit for a total of 12 hours daily, with 2 hours on high settings and 10 hours on low settings in order to maintain a consistent room temperature. This level of efficiency is pretty impressive, making the SLPAC8 a cost-effective choice for those seeking reliable cooling performance.
In addition to its remarkable cooling capabilities, it also flaunts a modern LED display and user-friendly controls, enabling easy temperature adjustment and maintenance.
Overall, the SLPAC8 is a good choice for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient way to beat the heat while camping.
Portable AC for Camping: FAQs Answered
In this section, we will address some common questions about using a portable air conditioner for camping. Keep reading to find out the answers to all your queries about using a portable air conditioner while camping.
Q1. Are there any safety considerations to keep in mind when using a portable AC for camping?
Ans: Yes, there are some safety considerations to keep in mind when using a portable AC for camping. Make sure to use it in a well-ventilated area, never leave it running while you’re not there, and cover it with a waterproof cover if you’re camping in an area with frequent.
Q2. Can I use a portable air conditioner in an RV or trailer while camping?
Ans: Yes, you can use a portable air conditioner in an RV or trailer while camping. Portable air conditioners are designed to be used with RVs and trailers, as they require minimal setup and no special installation. They also provide a great way to cool off your RV or trailer during the hot summer months.
Q3. Will a portable air conditioner work in a tent?
Ans: Yes, you can use a portable air conditioner in a tent! But make sure your tent is large enough and and have adequate ventilation to release hot air. In addition, it should also be properly insulated, and sealed to keep cool air in and warm air out.
Q4. Can I use a window air conditioner unit in a tent?
Ans: It is not recommended to use a window air conditioner unit in a tent. These units require proper venting through a window, which is not possible in a tent. Moreover, window AC units are usually pretty heavy and challenging to transport. All in all, it is unwise to use window air conditioners in tents.
Q5. Is it easy to set up a portable air conditioner for camping?
Ans: Yes, setting up a portable air conditioner for camping can be easy, depending on the unit and your familiarity with camping gear. To do this, position the unit in an area with good airflow and ventilation, secure the exhaust hose, and connect the unit to a power source and you are done.
Q6. Can you run a portable air conditioner without venting it outside?
Ans: No, it is not recommended to run a portable air conditioner without venting it outside. The process of air exchange is very important portable air conditioners. During the process, warm air is withdrawn from the room, cooled, and returned. If it is not vented outside, the unit will not be able to effectively cool the space.
Sum Up: Best Portable Air Conditioner For Camping
In conclusion, when it comes to the best portable air conditioner for camping, you can find a range of options that offer convenience, portability, and comfort on the go.
Whether you’re embarking on a long road trip or simply seeking to enhance your campsite’s comfort during the summer season, investing in a portable AC can be a worthwhile decision.
From the versatile BLACK+DECKER BPACT10WT to the reliable SereneLife SLPAC8, there are various choices available to cater to your specific needs.
Regardless of the model you select, you can be confident that it will contribute to a fantastic and comfortable camping experience.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Black+Decker BPACT10WT presents a compelling choice.
On the other hand, if you’re willing to make a slightly higher investment, the Zero Breeze Mark 2 stands out as a high-performing option, offering dependable cooling performance.
And it is my personal favorite choice for portable air conditioner for camping!
