UK Camping Guide: How to Choose the Best Camping Water Heater
Thermomate AZ132 Gas Water Heater

Whether you're heading to the remote forests of Dartmoor National Park or the coast of Falmouth Bay, the right gear can make or break your camping trip. With the unpredictable weather in the UK, having the right tools is crucial for visibility and creating a comfortable and safe atmosphere. This guide will help you choose the ideal camping tools.

Outdoor Camping Gear

Based on the duration, location, and conditions of your camping trip, here is a basic list of camping gear and supplies:

1. Basic Camping Gear

  • Tent: Waterproof and wind-resistant tents suitable for the number of campers.
  • Sleeping Bag: Choose a sleeping bag with an appropriate warmth rating for the season.
  • Ground Mat/Air Mattress: Improves sleeping comfort and insulates against cold ground.
  • Backpack: Lightweight, large-capacity backpack suitable for carrying supplies.

2. Cooking and Dining

  • Portable Stove: Gas stove, alcohol stove, or wood stove.
  • Cookware and Utensils: Collapsible pots, bowls, chopsticks, spoons, etc.
  • Food and Drinking Water: High-calorie, easy-to-cook foods, water purification devices (like filters or purification tablets).
  • Cooler: Keeps perishable food fresh.

3. Personal Items

  • Clothing: Windproof and waterproof jackets, thermal clothing, quick-dry clothes, and spare clothes.
  • Toiletries: Toothbrush, towel, wet wipes, portable water heater (such as a portable gas water heater).
  • Sun and Insect Protection: Sunscreen, hat, insect repellent.

4. Lighting and Navigation

  • Flashlight: High brightness and long battery life.
  • Camp Lantern: Suitable for use at night.
  • Compass/Map/GPS Devices: Helpful for navigation, especially in remote areas.

5. Safety and Medical

  • First Aid Kit: Includes band-aids, bandages, painkillers, allergy medicine, etc.
  • Multi-tool: Swiss Army knife, pliers, etc.
  • Communication Devices: Phone, walkie-talkie, or satellite phone.

6. Other Items

  • Chairs and Tables: Foldable portable furniture.
  • Trash Bags: Keeps the environment clean.
  • Entertainment: Board games, books, music player, etc.

Among these, how to choose a portable gas water heater has become a common dilemma for many consumers. Factors such as size, weight, water pressure requirements, and water temperature all need to be considered. Below are the factors to consider when choosing a portable gas water heater:

1. Type of Water Heater

Choose between an instant, storage, or integrated design based on your needs.

2. Gas Type

Ensure the gas water heater supports the type of gas available at your camping site (such as LPG).

3. Water Pressure Requirements

Choose a water heater that can operate at low water pressure for use in low-pressure conditions. The Thermomate AZ132 delivers 5L/min of hot water immediately with a temperature rise of 25°C and starts at a low pressure of 0.25 bar.

4. Weight and Size

Portability is the key consideration. Lightweight designs are suitable for backpack camping, while larger sizes are better for car camping. The Thermomate portable gas water heater AZ132 measures 34 x 29.5 x 12 cm and weighs 4.5 kg, making it ideal for camping, hiking, fishing, and beach trips.

5. Power and Temperature Control

Check if the water heater's power is sufficient for your hot water needs. Water heaters with temperature controls are more practical.

6. Accessories Support

Ensure the water heater is easy to operate, install, and maintain. The Thermomate AZ132 includes a gas regulator and hose, showerhead and hose, helping you set it up and use it quickly.

7. Durability

Check if the heater has windproof, waterproof, and other features suitable for harsh outdoor environments.

8. Safety Features

Ensure the heater has features like overheat protection, dry burn protection, and flame-out protection. The Thermomate AZ132 not only has a frost protection device to drain residual water and prevent the gas boiler from freezing in cold areas or after long periods of disuse, but it also features overheat and flame-out protection. If the flame goes out or the water temperature exceeds 80°C, the gas supply will automatically shut off.

9. Battery Life

Estimate the gas bottle's usage and runtime based on the duration of your camping trip and how often you'll need hot water.

Final Thoughts

A suitable portable gas water heater is essential for a successful and enjoyable camping trip. Consider your camping environment, trip length, and the water sources you'll use. The Thermomate portable gas water heater is lightweight, requires low water and gas pressure, and is perfect for providing hot water for showers, dishwashing, and food cleaning. It is an ideal addition to your camping gear.