There’s cold – and then there’s camping cold. Early starts, icy winds, and sitting still by the fire long after the sun’s gone. Staying warm out there isn’t a luxury – it’s survival. But bulky winter coats can be awkward, heavy, and a nightmare to stuff into your kit.
That’s where heated jackets and gilets step in. These clever bits of kit use battery-powered heating panels to keep you toasty without loading you down with layers. Lightweight, warm, and built for British weather – they’re a proper game-changer for cold-weather camping.
Some models even combine built-in heating with insulated padding, giving you the best of both worlds: warmth from within and protection from the outside. Here, I will be showing you the top heated jackets and gilets that are actually worth packing.
Why Heated Jackets and Gilets Matter for Camping
Standard jackets do the job – until the temperature drops below 5°C and the wind starts biting. Then you realise fluffy insulation alone just isn’t enough. That’s where heated clothing earns its keep. It’s like bringing your own personal campfire – minus the smoke.
One press of a button, and warmth spreads across your core. It’s honestly a game-changer. I remember slipping on a heated gilet after a freezing battle with tent poles – felt like someone had flicked the sun back on. If you’ve ever done the midnight loo dash in minus temps, you’ll know how much that matters.
For new campers, it’s a smart upgrade. You stay warm, sleep better, and don’t spend the whole trip wishing you were home. Trust me – once you’ve used one, you won’t camp cold again. Now, let’s see some of the best ones you can pick up for your next camping adventure.
Top Heated Gilets for Campers in the UK
Picking a gilet (that’s a sleeveless vest for any newcomers) means freedom of movement plus solid core warmth. For British weather, you want something light, efficient, and reliable. Here’s what actually works in the field.
Ororo Soft Shell Heated Jacket
Best For: Overall warmth & durability
Heating Zones: 3 (chest & mid-back)
Battery & Runtime: 7.4V battery – 10h (low), 6h (medium), 3h (high)
Key Features: Durable soft shell, removable hood, machine washable, snug fit
Vapesoon Heated Vest
Best For: Budget-friendly starter option
Heating Zones: 4 (core coverage)
Battery & Runtime: USB-powered (runtime depends on power bank)
Key Features: Affordable (~£35), lightweight, flexible battery use, easy layering
Arris Heated Jacket
Best For: Custom heat control
Heating Zones: 8 (chest, back, neck, pockets)
Battery & Runtime: 7.4V 5500mAh – up to 20h (low)
Key Features: Independent zone control, USB charging port, fleece-lined interior, windproof & water-resistant
Conqueco Heated Jacket
Best For: Full-length warmth (including arms)
Heating Zones: Multiple (torso + sleeves)
Battery & Runtime: Up to 8h
Key Features: Heated sleeves, water-resistant, glove-friendly controls, reliable in UK weather
DEWBU Heated Jacket
Best For: Harsh conditions & rapid heating
Heating Zones: 5 (chest, back, arms, pockets)
Battery & Runtime: 12V battery – 9–10h (low), shorter on high
Key Features: Heats up to 60°C, foldable hood, water-resistant soft shell, machine washable
1. Ororo Soft Shell Heated Jacket – Best Overall Pick
If you’re after warmth, durability, and comfort all bundled into one slick jacket, the Ororo Soft Shell Heated Jacket ticks nearly every box. It’s made for people who actually spend time outdoors, not just those nipping to the shops in winter.
Built with a tough synthetic soft shell exterior and a breathable lining, it holds up well in wind and cold. The removable hood’s a nice touch, especially on breezy mornings or if you’re trying to trap a bit more heat. What really makes this jacket stand out is its carbon fibre heating system, powered by a 7.4V battery pack (included). Unlike those USB-powered vests that run out of puff, this one actually delivers strong, lasting heat.
There are three heat settings – low (38°C), medium (45°C), and high (55°C). Expect around 10 hours on low, 6 on medium, and 3 on full power, which held up pretty well in testing. Heat zones are well-placed too, covering both chest areas and the mid-back – right where you feel the cold most. And despite the tech inside, the jacket is machine washable – yep, over 50 washes and it still holds up. That’s a big win for campers.
It’s not waterproof, but it layers easily under a waterproof shell. Sizes run true to UK fit, and a snug fit helps keep the warmth close. The only downsides? You’re tied to Ororo’s battery system, and it’s only available in black with a blue zip.
2. Vapesoon Heated Vest – Best on a Budget
If you’re dipping your toes into the world of heated clothing or just short on cash after buying a new tent, the Vapesoon Heated Vest is a solid starter option. It won’t blow your socks off, but for around £35, it does a decent job keeping your core warm.
It features four heating zones and three heat settings, all powered by a USB connection. That means you’ll need to supply your own power bank, which gives it flexibility, but also depends on the quality of the battery you use. No built-in battery here, which explains the budget price.
One of my camping mates wore this on a damp Suffolk wild camp, layered over a fleece while we ate dinner. It was hovering just above freezing, and he was perfectly warm – until bedtime, when the power bank started running low. Still, not bad for a cheap setup. The fit’s a little basic – not tailored, and definitely more “functional” than fashionable, but under a coat, it does the job.
Perfect if you’re just getting started or want a cheap backup vest in your kit bag. It’s not premium, but it’s toasty, simple, and great value.
3. Arris Heated Jacket – Best for Custom Heat Control
If you want warmth exactly where you need it – and fast – the Arris Heated Jacket really delivers. It combines smart tech with quality materials, and it’s packed with features that genuinely work out in the wild. This one’s a great pick for serious campers, dog walkers, anglers, or anyone who braves the cold regularly.
Let’s start with the standout feature: eight heating zones. Yep, eight. That includes your chest, back, neck, and even hand pockets. And the real treat? You can control each zone separately using a simple three-button system. Want heat on your back but not your chest? No problem. It’s fully customisable.
It runs on a 7.4V 5500mAh rechargeable battery that also charges your phone while you're out. Battery life is excellent – up to 20 hours on low, though we found it varies depending on how many zones you’re running. It charges in 4-5 hours using USB-C, which is a bit longer than some jackets, but fair given the performance.
Comfort is solid, too. It has a fleece-lined interior, thermal middle layer, and a windproof, water-resistant outer shell. Even without the heat turned on, the jacket still feels warm and protective. That said, it runs a bit snug in the sleeves and chest, so you might want to size up if layering underneath.
And bonus points to Arris for adding thermal protection to avoid overheating. It's a well-thought-out bit of kit that ticks a lot of boxes.
4. Conqueco Heated Jacket – Top Pick for Full-Length Warmth
Cold arms at camp? Not with the Conqueco Heated Jacket. Unlike most heated jackets that stop at the torso, this one includes heated sleeves, which makes a massive difference on frosty mornings or long bivvy nights.
It’s water-resistant, so you’re protected from light rain and sudden drizzles – because let’s be honest, it’s never completely dry on a UK camping trip. The jacket's taken me through three Scottish trips, one of which included hail (yes, actual marble-sized hailstones), and I stayed warm the entire time – even after forgetting my mid-layer.
Battery life is solid – up to 8 hours – and the glove-friendly controls are easy to use, even in freezing conditions. Just press a button, and the heat kicks in almost instantly. Whether you’re setting up camp, cooking outside, or hiking through early morning frost, this jacket is ready for it all.
5. DEWBU Heated Jacket – Best for Harsh Conditions
If you're the kind of camper who heads out even when the frost bites hard, the DEWBU Heated Jacket is a serious bit of gear. With a powerful 12V battery, this jacket gets hot – up to 60°C – and does it fast. Perfect for winter camping, snow trips, or anyone who gets cold easily.
It’s built tough, with a water-resistant soft shell, foldable hood, and plenty of pockets for keeping your gear handy. It’s also machine washable, which is always a bonus when you’re heading out regularly and need something low-maintenance.
The five carbon fibre heating zones cover the chest, back, and arms, including hand-warming areas near the pockets. Battery life stretches to around 9-10 hours on low, but drops a bit quicker if you’re blasting full heat. Still, with three heat modes and a simple LED control button, it’s easy to adjust on the go.
It’s not the lightest or slimmest jacket out there, but if you want warmth you can feel instantly, this one’s a beast.
Key Points When Picking Heated Jackets and Gilets
There’s a lot of hype out there, but these are the things that actually matter when you’re sitting in a rain-lashed tent or waiting out a storm by the coast:
- Battery Life: Look for 6-8 hours on medium, minimum. A dead battery at midnight is no fun. Bring a backup if you’re wild camping.
- Heat Distribution: More zones mean more comfort. Top-rated vests like Arris Heated vests cover chest, back, and sometimes the collar. Cheaper models often skimp on the sides.
- Weather Resistance: UK camping means rain is all but certain. Jackets with water-resistant shells (like Conqueco) buy you time when drizzle turns to downpour.
- Portability: Every gram counts, especially if you’re walking miles in. Some heated jackets are chunkier than they look in photos – test the weight before you hike.
- Fit and Comfort: A warm jacket is useless if it chafes, rides up, or fits like a bin bag. Try before you buy, if possible.
- Easy Controls: When you’re fumbling with cold fingers at 2am, simple buttons or toggles are your best friend. Touch screens won’t help when you can’t feel your nose.
Special Picks for Extreme Conditions
Sometimes, even the best standard heated jackets aren’t enough. If you’re eyeing a winter trek across Cairngorms or planning to camp during storms, now’s the time to go up a notch.
The Backcountry Heated Vest boasts high heat output and longer battery life, but it’s bigger and heavier than budget models. For long, freezing nights or when you’re stuck in the tent for hours, it’s a saviour.
Trek Heated Vest is made for moving fast – think scrambling, hard multi-day walks, or if you run cold from dawn till dusk. It’s built to breathe, stretches with you, and takes a beating. Serious investment, but you’ll appreciate it on the fourth night of drizzle and mud.
Yes, premium models cost more. But I’ve paid in shivers before. Buy right, and you’ll push your season and your comfort zone much further.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Heated Gear for Your Trips
If you take one thing from all this, make it this: buy heated gear that matches the worst weather you expect, not the luckiest. Your average UK campout is colder, wetter, and windier than you’d like to admit. The right heated jacket or gilet means fewer miserable nights and a lot more fun – whether you’re cooking breakfast in driving rain or enjoying stars over a frost-covered field.
Start with a reliable core gilet like the Ororo’s. Step up to a heated jacket if you camp all year round or value arm warmth. Don’t scrimp on battery life, and don’t trust a product with flimsy zips or awkward controls.
I’ve made do with rubbish gear, and I’ve levelled up with the good stuff. Invest once and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without heated kit on those brutal British nights.
Find more practical gear advice for wet and wild UK camping at our main Camping Gear Guides page. Stay warm out there – the weather’s not going to do you any favours.
