Roof tent heating: How to keep it warm even in winter

• Insulation first: 3D mesh underlay, sleeping mat/floor panel and thermal inner tent minimise heat loss.
• Safe heating: Mobile or permanently installed diesel auxiliary heating is the best option; avoid open flames and fan heaters.
• Alternatives without heating: Thermal sleeping bag, thermal cover, hot water bottle, electric blanket, layered clothing and warm bedding from the car.
• Advantage of hard-shell tents: Better insulation against cold, wind and snow.

Winter camping in a roof tent sounds appealing – provided you have the right roof tent heater or alternatives that reliably keep you warm. With good insulation, the right equipment, and clever helpers, every winter night will be cozy – even in sub-zero temperatures.

Warmth begins with insulation

Before you think about heating, you should properly seal your roof tent. A 3D mesh base protects against cold ground, and a sleeping pad or groundsheet prevents cooling from below.

Our Thermo inner tent is a real must-have: It noticeably reduces heat loss and creates a pleasant indoor climate in the roof tent – without any additional heating source.

Roof tent heating: What options are there?

The safest solution for winter trips is a portable or permanently installed diesel heater. This heats the air outside the tent and safely directs it inside. Important: When installing, ensure good ventilation and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

You should never use open flames (gas, petroleum) or fan heaters in the roof tent – the risk of fire is too high.

Alternatives to roof tent heating

Even without a heating system, you can keep yourself warm in your tent:

• Thermal sleeping bag : Our high-quality sleeping bag protects you even in cold temperatures.
• Thermal cover : As an additional layer over the sleeping bag, it provides even better thermal performance.

• Hot water bottles, electric blankets or warm clothing in layers often work wonders.
• Transport the sleeping bag and bedding in the heated car and only bring them into the tent in the evening.

Our tip: Choose a hard-shell tent

If you regularly travel in winter, a hard-shell tent like the Themis is a better choice: It naturally insulates better than soft-cover models and efficiently keeps out wind and snow.

With the right roof tent heater—or suitable alternatives like the thermal inner tent, thermal sleeping bag, or thermal cover—you don't have to forgo comfort even in winter. Nothing stands in the way of your next off-road adventure in the snow.