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You're considering buying a portable fan, but you don't know what to look for. Yes, it needs to create a breeze, but what else is important?
You might think most fans are relatively similar but that’s not the case. If you are backpacking, the best fan is one that will keep you cool and comfortable without taking up a lot of space or weight in your pack.
If you are car camping you can afford to go a bit larger. Most importantly, look for a fan that will not break on long treks in the summer sun or muggy nights in your tent.
Whether you’re looking for something small and lightweight or a powerful fan that can keep you cool even on the hottest summer days, check out our article to learn more about the best tent fans your money can buy!
How We Uncover The Best For You
Keeping your cool is so important, not only when camping on a super hot summer's day, but also planning the trip in the first place! Deciding which fan to take along with you can be so so tedious.
Not to worry - we've done the hard work for you already!
We are happy to do this for you because we understand how a little thing like a camping fan can make a very big difference to the enjoyment of your trip. So we have selected a range of fans for you to choose between so you can plan the perfect camping holiday.
Best Fan For Battery Life
Treva 10-Inch Portable Fan
A Cracking Choice For Campers Needing A Fan That Will Extend Cell Batteries Lives
We Chose This Because
- Versatile
- Long battery Life
- Folds for Storage
Things We Love
Take the Treva 10-Inch Portable Fan with you wherever you go to stay fresh and comfortable. It is battery-operated but can run on either 6 D cell batteries or AC power, making it versatile and ideal if you're regularly out in the wild on long camping trips with no access to a power outlet or don't want to be messing about with a power cord or power banks.
With a ridiculously long battery life, you can be sure it'll stay powered on throughout those hot summer days no matter where you pitch up. Plus, the detachable power cord means no dangling cords getting in the way when you're hiking or biking!
Things To Know
It's easy to set up and use - simply tilt it up or down to adjust the airflow of the freestanding fan. It's super quiet too so it'll provide gentle white noise to help you fall asleep if you're struggling to drift off, and has two speed settings.
What's more, it folds up great for storing it while not using it and doesn't take up space when you're packing for camping trips. It's lightweight and sturdy enough to be moved around as needed, making it ideal for use in emergencies at home too.
The fan is also very affordable, making it a great option for anyone on a budget. Whether you're looking for a fan to keep you cool during the summer months or one to provide some white noise at night, the Treva fan is a great option.
Best Fan For Campers On A Budget
Odoland Portable LED Camping Lantern with Ceiling Fan
A Cracking Choice For Campers On A Budget
We Chose This Because
- Affordability
- Versatile
- Energy Saving
Things We Love
The Odoland Portable LED Camping Lantern with Ceiling Fan is a versatile tool that can come in handy in a variety of situations. With a full 360-degree rotation, it works perfectly as a ceiling fan and light combo inside your tent.
What's more, the high-quality brushless motor and metal blades mean the fan is super quiet but powerful enough to provide a strong airflow if needed.
And for those of you who are eco-conscious, it also has a lower power setting if you're in energy-saving mode. A very useful feature if you aren't near power sources.
All this at a crazily low cost too, so we recommend it if you're camping on a budget and don't want to spring for a separate lantern!
Things To Know
In terms of battery life, it has an impressive run time too. The 18 ultra-bright low-power LED light provides bright light for up to 37 hours (with just the light on), so you won't need to bring loads of extra batteries thanks to its incredible battery capacity.
The fan can also run uninterrupted for 15 hours straight using 2 D batteries, providing a cooling breeze on those long hot summer nights.
What's great about this battery-operated fan and light is when you're done using it you can collapse it to a much smaller size and store it effortlessly. It's both light on your wallet and your packing space!
It's a fan and light in one and has a hook for hanging on your tent ceiling, which comes in handy for your night-time card games. All of this makes the Odoland Portable LED Camping Fan a great choice that won't leave a dent in your wallet, go grab one now!
Best Fan For Durability
Geek Aire Rechargeable Battery Fan
A Cracking Choice For Campers Who Value Durability
We Chose This Because
- Innovative Design
- Water Resistant
- Efficient
Things We Love
The Geek Aire High Velocity Fan is a powerful and durable fan that can be used indoors or outdoors so it's perfect for your next adventure, don't just take our word for it - it was also nominated for the 2019 Housewares Design Awards!
There are so many things to love about this fan! It has a sturdy metal frame and blade, a durable paint surface, and it's IPX4 water-resistant too, which makes it a great choice for use in any environment, indoors or out.
Another feature we love about the Geek Air Fan is the variable air speed control, unlike the first two fans mentioned it is operated by a dial, so you have the ultimate control over airspeed which is awesome!
Things To Know
Thanks to its compact size and long-lasting rechargeable battery, the Geek Aire Fan is a must-have for anyone who needs a reliable source of cooling power.
The rechargeable battery can run up to 24 hours non-stop (what great battery life right!) and only takes a few to recharge. Thanks to its brushless dc motor it's almost silent when on low speeds, and is remarkably quiet even on a high fan speed setting.
As well as being one of the best camping fans out there, it's perfect for use in the home, office, or garage, and it makes an excellent gift for the handyman or woman in your life. Grab a Geek Aire Fan today!
Best Fan For Versatility
Drchop 7800mAh Camping Fan
A Cracking Choice for Campers Who Want A Lot From Their Fan
We Chose This Because
- Versatility
- Light
- Durable
Things We Love
This Drchop camping fan is a great choice for anyone who likes to be prepared when they're out camping.
The built-in 7800mAh large-capacity battery means that it can work continuously for up to 25 hours at the lowest speed, and the remote control means that you can manage it without having to get up close to it.
As with some of the other fans on this list, it is both a fan and a light source. It's awesome for tent camping with its 3 different light modes, so you won't have to worry about bringing a separate camping light on your next trip.
The USB port means that you can use it to charge other devices with a USB cable too, which of course is incredibly useful if one of your devices runs out of charge. So, this lighted tent fan is not only great for keeping you cool, but it's also really useful if your devices run out of power!
Things To Know
This Drchop camping fan has 3 adjustable speed settings with a maximum wind speed of up to 10 feet per second. As with some of the best camping fans, it has an impact-resistant casing, so is durable and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
It can be set up in both vertical and horizontal directions with 180-degree flexibility, which means it's versatile - just find a flat surface, set the fan down, and voila, you have a perfectly good floor fan!
You'll be relieved to know it's light, small, and perfect for packing, you could even use it if you're car camping and don't want to run your battery low on a hot summer night in your vehicle. All being equal this is a great portable lighted tent fan to pick up in preparation for your next great adventure.
Best Fan For Repelling Insects
REENUO 5000mAh Camping Fan
A Cracking Choices For Campers Who Want To Keep Bugs Away
We Chose This Because
- Multi-Functional
- User Friendly
- Efficient
Things We Love
Yes you read correctly, this fan is unlike most fans, it can also function as an insect repellant. How crazy is that?
Keep noticing bugs somehow always making it into your tent at night? For some of us, this can be an extremely challenging part of camping. And if your tent doesn't have an insect net and you are forced to keep the doors zipped shut, the heat can become unbearable.
So with this in mind, the designers of this fan came up with a nifty trick. This lighted tent fan comes with 2 sponges that you can attach to the back of the fan.
If you are having trouble with pesky flies around your camp, add a few drops of lemon eucalyptus or another insect-repelling scent to the sponge and the fan will circulate that through your tent, which will keep the flies away, how cool!
Another cool perk of the sponges that set them apart from most camping fans, is that the sponges absorb moisture so the fan controls the humidity inside the tent. We think this is one of the most innovative fans for its price out there. Grab one and see if you agree.
Things To Know
It has an LED light with high and low speed settings as well as a USB cable and USB port so you can attach it to an external power source for easy charging. You can even use a car charger if you're on a road trip or traveling between campsites.
This small battery-powered fan is really easy to carry and set up and has a hanging hook and ultra-stable chassis which makes it one of the best hanging fans on the market for its price.
The Best Camping Fan For You?
A Buyers Guide for you: When you’re camping, a fan can be an extremely useful item. It can help keep you cool in the heat and circulate air in your tent or RV. But not all fans are created equal.
When choosing a camping fan, there are a few key factors to consider in order to ensure you're getting the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Size and Weight
Fans come in a variety of sizes. Be sure to choose one that will be appropriate for the size of your tent. Choose a fan that is lightweight and portable. You’ll want to be able to take it with you wherever you go, so it should be easy to carry.
Power source
Some fans run on batteries, while others need to be plugged into an outlet. Consider where you'll be using your fan and what type of power source will be most convenient.
Features
Some fans for camping come with built-in light sources or other features. While these aren't essential, they can be nice to have if they fit your needs. Look for a fan that has multiple speed settings. This way, you can adjust the amount of airflow depending on your needs.
Price
These fans range in price from relatively inexpensive to quite expensive. Set a budget before you start shopping and be sure to stick to it.
Durability
Look for a fan that is durable and weather resistant. It should be able to withstand being outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions.
The Best Fan For Camping - Your Questions Answered
Your Answers Are Just A Short Distance Away, Keep Reading!
It can be tough to figure out which is the best tent fan for your needs. Are you planning a backpacking trip - an adrenaline-fueled adventure, or do you simply want a small fan to make sure your family is cool?
We've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about tent fans to help you make a cracking choice and snag the best portable fan possible, just in time for your next trip.
Are Tent Fans Worth It?
Yes, tent fans are definitely worth it! They can make a big difference in terms of comfort, and they're relatively affordable and easy to use.
Not only do they provide much-needed ventilation and cooling inside the tent, but they can also help reduce moisture and condensation build-up. This is especially important during the warmer months when excess moisture can make sleeping uncomfortable and lead to mildew growth.
Some fans even come with a built-in light, making them perfect for use in the evening or early morning. So if you're looking for a way to stay cool and comfortable during your next adventure, be sure to bring along a tent fan!
Do Tent Fans Work?
Yes, tent fans work to provide airflow and circulate air within a tent. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using one.
First, make sure that the fan is not pointed directly at you as this can create a cold draft. Also, be aware of the direction of the wind outside - if the fan is blowing air outwards, it will likely just bring in more hot air from outside.
Placing a small table or stool next to the fan can help improve airflow and circulation within the tent. Finally, remember that dampness can build up inside a tent so it's important to ventilate properly and not just rely on a fan alone.
What Is A Good Rechargeable Fan?
There are a few factors to consider when looking for a good rechargeable fan. The most important thing is to find one that is powerful enough to keep you cool.
Another important consideration is portability; you'll want a fan that is easy to carry with you wherever you go.
Finally, it's important to find a fan that is easy to recharge. We think the Geek Aire fan featured above is a perfect choice if you're looking for a portable fan with a rechargeable battery, especially with its extended battery life, it's a no-brainer!
How Do I Cool Down My Tent?
There are a few ways you can try to cool down your tent, but by far the most simple and effective is to use a camping fan.
The key is to use the fan to circulate cool air into and around the tent and let the hot air escape.
You can place a floor fan near the entrance of the tent facing inwards, so cool air will blow into the main area of the tent, or you can attach a ceiling tent fan to the top of your tent, set the fan speed to low, and relax under a gentle breeze.
How Long Do Camping Fans Last?
Well, it depends on the fan. Some camping fans have rechargeable batteries while others require disposable batteries.
The life of a battery-powered fan also depends on how often it's used. If it's used frequently, the battery will die sooner than if it's only used occasionally. If you have the choice of high and low settings, using it on the low setting will help increase battery life.
It's important to keep in mind that the lifespan of a fan also depends on how well it's taken care of. Fans that are used frequently or that aren't properly cared for may not last as long as ones that are used sparingly or that are well taken care of.
In general, a portable fan for camping can last anywhere from several hundred hours to over 10,000 hours. It just depends on the fan itself.
Should I Turn My Fan Off At Night?
There is no right answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors, including the climate where you're camping and your own personal preferences. However, here are some things to consider:
If you're camping in a dry or dusty environment it might be an idea to turn your fan off when you sleep. Fans can circulate allergens and dust particles around a tent, which may be uncomfortable for people who suffer from allergies or asthma, so you might want to turn off the fan half an hour before you head to sleep if you've got asthma like me!
If you're worried about your fan's battery life and you don't have access to a power supply or plenty of traditional batteries, then it makes sense to turn your fan off at night. You don't want to be rushing around and getting hot searching for your last d cell batteries hoping you've got spares somewhere!
Where should a fan be placed in a tent?
Generally, the best place for a fan is near the entrance, blowing air into the tent - this creates a draft that will help keep you nice and cool on really hot days, keeping the warm air flowing out of the tent.
A tent fan will usually have a few different ways they can be set up. Some have full 360-degree movement, some are better as a floor fan, and some are designed to hang on the ceiling of your tent.
It's a good idea to bring the manufacturer's instructions and follow their guidelines for the best ways to set them up.
Why Are Tents So Hot?
I'm sure you've heard of the greenhouse effect. This happens in your tent too as the rays of the sun can filter through the fabric. So the heat in the tent builds and builds through the day. In order for your tent to cool down, you need to let that hot air escape and that's not as easy as it sounds.
If you have a particularly warm night you will find it hard to get the tent cool as the warm air is trapped inside. So what you are left with is an overheated tent that is difficult to air when bugs are around.
We found using a tent fan (we found floor fans and hanging fans worked well) to help the air circulate made a huge difference.
Not necessarily suitable for camping trips, one nifty innovation we found was a fan system that facilitates the circulation of cooling air. The video below illustrates how passing air over water can help keep you cooler.
We have had so much fun comparing fans on the market that are appropriate for camping. Not quite as much fun as the camping holiday itself though, of course. We hope you found it useful and you are looking forward to a wonderfully cool tent on your next camping trip.
Our Choice For Battery Life
Our Choice For Campers On A Budget
Odoland Portable LED Camping Lantern with Ceiling Fan
Our Choice For Durability
Our Choice For Versatility
Our Choice For Repelling Insects
Whether you are looking for a large fan (like the Geek Aire floor fan) to create fast wind speed keeping you cool, or prefer small battery-powered fans and quiet operation to create a small draft and maintain a light breeze we have you covered.
There are so many fans out there, that we thought we'd make it a breeze for you to compare the best options and choose the perfect fan for your next summer trip. We hope that that making your choice is clearer and you have more time for fun.
