Winter Car Camping Using Candles for Heat | Dodge Campervan / Van Life

[@Dan-yn7ke]

Nice video, first time visitor. I have a MR buddy heater and love it. But back to the UCO. A regular size tealight has about 300 btu of total energy. A standard tealight burns for 3 1/2 to 4 hrs. thats about 75 btu's per hr. I'm thinking the UCO's claim of 5000 btu's is total output for 3-9hr burning candles giving you approximately ( 5000btu/9hrs)= 555.55 btu's per hr. With each candle producing 185.1851 btu's each due to bigger flame than a standard tealight. That's not much heat per hr. A kerosene lantern with 5/8" wick produces 1100 btu/hr. A kero lantern with 7/8" wick produces 1400 btu/hr. Like I said, love the Mr buddy heater. but have kero lantern as back up. Two is one, one is none.

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks for this response bro, you are definitely correct and like how you broke it down. It literally just says btu 5000 on back so kinda misleading in my opinion but that’s their way of putting a big number on the box I guess. So the Mr buddy heater on low is about 5 times as much heat per hour as the candle setup I had going. Totally makes sense from my experience and why I said you’d need multiple of the 3x candles to compare. I do think it’s a very nice emergency backup item. Thanks for the break down bro

[@joewoodchuck3824]

I prefer to think in watts because it seems more relatable to me. I have no idea what a 5,000 btu heat source means. Average candles produce about 100 watts. Typical electric room heaters are about 1,200 watts.

[@deerslayer4331]

My thoughts exactly l doubt btu /ph from the candles would even come close to the buddy htr output

[@johnle231]

@@TolbersCamping dude you need airflow blowing the candle heat circulating it all around van

[@xBucket13x]

well put Dan, 2 is 1 and 1 is none..

[@TABISURU2019]

I live in Japan. I also travel around Japan in my car and sleep in a tent. Camping makes you forget about everyday life and refreshes your mind. This video made me want to get out and play outdoors.

[@TolbersCamping]

Very cool and I hope your KZbin channel blows up! Do you speak this good of English or do you use google translate?

[@TABISURU2019]

Thanks! I use Google Translate because I live in Japan and my English is not good. When I was watching KZbin, I was lucky enough to see your amazing videos and come across your amazing channels. I couldn't help but make a comment. I look forward to working with you in the future.

[@heinrichhimmler3998]

do you feel safe??

[@tashamitchell2148FU]

When you can get yourself a ski suit, they are the best to keep warm and you can wear it while you're sleeping. And if you have to get up in the middle of the night, you don't have to worry about changing. You're already ready to go ❤️ I miss living in my car compared to where I'm at now ❤️ . Enjoy it buddy

[@commonsense3333]

Another way to lock up safely, would be to run your seatbelts through the door handles and then click them into place.

[@Suezee66]

Great idea 💡 👍🏻

[@joyceziegler3199]

Nice!! So I connect the baby seat belt in my shopping cart through the loop of my purse. Would really surprise a snatch and grab purse thief!! Love your idea! Thanks 👍

[@rayrenz3599]

This is what KZbin is all about. I love the honest, simplicity about this van life. There are tons of KZbin videos about van life but some of them come off disingenuous and dramatic at times. I hope your channel explodes and im a subscriber now!

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks bro, means alot. New video will be up in a few days

[@susanolson3611]

A heavy insulated floor to ceiling curtain just behind the front seats will reduce the space to be heated. Also the cab has 2 doors and is all windows which are heat loss areas.

[@Greg_M1]

I've always known these as candle lanterns with the principle purpose of being for light while camping. And it's a bonus in cold temps that it provides local heat. You can leverage the heat off of a single candle lantern by reducing the amount of space it has to heat. You can for instance have a blanket wrapped loosely around you and just have the candle lantern under the blanket in a safe position. Amazing how much heat is given off when the space is more confined. And of course ventilation ventilation ventilation. Cool I enjoyed that thank you!

[@billbudd99]

Just my opinion: Something I always heard , before the area begins to warm up , the fabric in your surroundings have to warm up. So that includes your sleeping bag, seats , carpet, bedding have to warm up as well. If you would have put the little Buddy on for like 30 minutes & then turn off, the candles would have probably kept the temperature stable around 65 degrees throughout the night . Maybe try it next time . Happy outings 🙏 bsafe

[@jyesucevitz]

not an opinion. it's science. I size and design heat and a/c systems for homes. you're correct. you've got to bring all the objects around you up to temperature before the air will get to that temp. in that type of environment you're best option is something that produces warm air that can be directed onto your body. radiant heating from candles will never heat the entire vehicle you're in.

[@juledoren]

Did you miss the part where he was only using candles for heat?

[@lolaoh2001]

Excellent point 👍

[@lolaoh2001]

@@juledoren obvious understanding, however, discussing ways to still use the candles as an off grid idea without putting a drain on your battery source etc.

[@gerggbergr8976]

I wonder how the clay pot's and plate system would work?

[@JohnRavenwood]

I have a 21011 Grand Caravan, which I use as a camper. In addition to the window treatments, I have a blackout curtain in back of the front seats. I crack one of the widows in the front and one in the back. I use three of the single UCO candles and a small fan on the lowest setting. My candles came with aluminum light reflectors (aluminum foil works as well) which I put on to keep the light from shining in my face. I put one candle in the sink and hang the other two from the grab handles along the sides. I've found that, unless the wind is blowing, the temperature stays 20-22 degrees above the outside temperature. I run the van for a few minutes to warm it up inside, and don't open the doors after I light the candles. I let the candles burn until they go out. This setup works well to prevent condensation, and it is warm enough so that I don't have to go overboard on bedding. However, I don't sleep in the van if the temp is below about 25F, so I don't know how this setup would work in extreme cold. Wind makes a big difference in the interior warmth.

[@jaqueitch]

That's one futuristic van!!

[@teamfarmcat]

Thanks for sharing. Our dad had us carry a metal coffee can with unscented candles and matches burning one candle at a time. I still carry a few in each vehicle. Once the candles are burned into wax in the coffee can, you can drain the wax into homemade Hobo Burners from tuna cans and corrugated cardboard snaked tight in the tuna can. The tuna can candle will burn as a heat candle and u can cook on them. U can melt snow for drinking etc on the coffee can also. Thanks again, stay safe

[@Oldsparkey]

You have to remember they are candles and not flame throwers. A old tent campers trick is to have one in the tent to stop condensation and actually keep the tent 10 degrees warmer then the outside temp. This is when using a single candle and holder. I have a single brass UCO candle holder since 1971. It goes on every trip I have made weather a car camping or backpacking or Canoeing trip.

[@TolbersCamping]

A single candle is very little heat, but glad it’s helping for you. They are cool for certain situations just not what they claim for heat.

[@evgeniynagornyak1150]

@@TolbersCamping hi, what is your advice for a tent in the summer. I live in England and at night there is a condensation inside the tent.. For summer, it would be enough to use one candle, or three is better?

[@tzavitz]

I want to reduce condensation, so you are saying a single candle in an enclosed holder works? Do you have to worry about carbon dioxide?

[@campandcook3118]

​@@evgeniynagornyak1150 in summer, just make sure you have better ventilation at the top of the tent

[@johnstevenperez4186]

Great video. I use two UCO Candeliers in my older 1995 Dodge Caravan when winter camping at Northern Minnesota at -10F. Double up on the Reflectix, Close the curtains to the front of the van, Carpet runner on the floor. I'm happy if I get to 55-60F. Keep the candles off the floor and let the heat build from the top and work its way down. Also, I put a wood stove fan on top of the two Candeliers side by side to push the heat. Just experiment until you find what works.

[@TolbersCamping]

Putting a curtain to block of the front would definitely help, but the main thing was for me to test if they really live up to the btu they claimed. My mr buddy heater on low is 4000 btu and without an extra curtain or any change I would get it 60+ no problem. That’s with both rear windows wide open. The 6600 btu that the candles should have been putting off based on what the company claims should have made it super warm in there with no changes and windows in rear wide open. I almost completely shut the windows and could hardly keep it low 40s in the van. So basically my main complaint is what they claim for heat, so that’s why I tested it out. I may for fun get another 1 or 2 of the 3 candle heaters, put a curtain up front and see what the results are. Thanks for watching bro

[@johnstevenperez4186]

@@TolbersCamping 5000BTU is a stretch, maybe 2500-3000. At price per cost, 1lb propane is cheaper than 3 candles. I inherited a small wood stove and modified the pipe and stove jack to go out up through the sun roof. Some unknown brand to me, Fltom. It warms the van quick and had to learn how to curb it down since I would be baking in the van. I lke winter camping since there are less people or nobody else around. Happy camping.

[@katydidnt3906]

Heat sinks???

[@johnwren3976]

Reflectix is not insulation. Only a radiant barrier.

[@boostedbadboyzx12r31]

Appreciate you toughing it out, and showing real world results and actually giving things a shot to work as claimed, even in the face of certainty that it's not. I was always curious about these, now, I know... thank you

[@timschutte6924]

It really comes down to how well your environment is insulated

[@phillyfathead]

I’m definitely with you, I love when the light is fading in the woods so peaceful kinda like the forest is going to bed for the night but in reality it’s just coming awake!!

[@MaryOKC]

Maybe others already commented but the window coverings are made for the cold black out to absorb heat and when it’s hot the reflective side out to reflect the heat. ☺️

[@TolbersCamping]

Yeah that’s what I do. The rear window shade is the only one that won’t allow you to flip it because there is a rear window wiper that makes it not symmetrical

[@MaryOKC]

@@TolbersCamping sometimes I use mine the opposite way with black on the inside to capture my own body heat…I’ve done this too.

[@KathrynFritze]

@@MaryOKCyou actually want to reflect your body heat and the candle heat back inside the van.

[@MaryOKC]

@@KathrynFritze agreed depending on the outside temps. 👍🏼

[@cheryldailey5178]

I am a firm believer in being prepared. I carry even the mini in my truck. In an emergency either of those could save your life. I really enjoyed this video. I think that comparing the heat of the candles to the buddy heater is like apples to oranges. I think it is wise to have BOTH!

[@anitasmith7764]

Maybe next time have all the windows & vents covered to help insulate. I have a buddy who car/truck camps and they bought some of the retractable clothes lines and wrapped the interior in blankets and made a huge difference not being exposed to the windows. Also your vent is huge and exposed & no doubt letting cold air seep thru. Great video!!! Can’t wait to see another one

[@davekelders283]

Actually, a simple candle can safe your life in a dire and cold situation. Great vid again!

[@Cactusmack-n9l]

If you have a means of lighting it. Just saying. Be prepared people.

[@davekelders283]

@@Cactusmack-n9l bic lighters all the way, but also have different means of firelighting ways such as hunting matches and a firerod. Two is one and one is none army principle.

[@peterblombergmusic]

used to make what we called Buddy Burners at camp each summer - very similar to that outdoor fire you had. We'd take cardboard and roll it up tight and put into a tuna can. Then, melt candle wax into it. Then, we could light it, but a coffee can over it and make french toast. When camping with some family friends, one guy tried to fry an egg and it didn't quite have enough for it. Anyways, they were fun to make! Oh the buddy burner name was just cause at camp we would to partner up and make it with a friend.

[@squidmonster43]

I missed a few of your videos and I gotta say you're doing really well, your channel has grown a great deal! Keep going you've got something here!

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks bro!

[@Deploracle]

The one-candle lantern you featured kept myself and my cats warm, in my closet, when the power went out in Texas 2 winters ago. It wasn't toasty but it was about 25 degrees above freezing in the closet. The three-candle model, which I have now, I am sure would be able to keep the closet at a nice toasty 75F in the same scenario. I have since replaced the white wax candles with the yellowish Beeswax candles the company offers. Safer to breath in an enclosed space.

[@marysue7165]

I felt so sorry for you guys when that happen

[@wannabetrucker7475]

Me too, that was absolutely horrifying. I don't recall any heads rolling in the utilities or state govts; but maybe the state sent out teams of natl guards etc to save people. I didn't follow it too closely....but thinking about it now makes me angry for y'all.

[@Mook1639B]

Actually, burning (usually paraffin) wax candles are horrible to breath in. Nasty to the inside of your lungs! Beeswax candles are a lot "safer", but you're still breathing in hydrocarbons. Next best is supposedly the candles made from soy. Be safe out there folks, and try not to create any more health for yourselves! Life is terribly short as it is! God bless you all!

[@Lucifer_IDI]

I have one of those candle heaters. The candles are expensive so I rigged mine to take 3 tealights or 3 sometimes 4 emergency candles. Much cheaper not as hard to change out or as messy. You need to insulate the windows and gaps to keep heat in cold out.

[@joannconfer1144]

I really likes the candle thing you used outside. That was really nice. I liked the one you warmed up your soup and water with, too. It was fun, thanks once again. 🙋🏻‍♀️💕

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks Jo Ann!

[@4winds23]

Me too that was really cool and simple.

[@MelissaThompson432]

The outdoor one is probably called a "portable bonfire," or something similar. You can allegedly find somerhing like it at Wal-Mart.

[@kade_kam_dad]

Wide angle looks great. I’d continue to use it. Great videos thanks.

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks bro!

[@jamesstuart3346]

The New American Dream: To have a nice car...to live in

[@derekneumann]

On the single candle version of the UCO lantern the glass can be slid down to light it so you don't have to unscrew the bottom. I have 3 of those and although the are kinda old-school, they burn for 9 hours, need no battery, and give an awesome ambiance when hung around the corners of your tarp whilst camping. I have no experience with the 3 candle version... but UCO makes good stuff!

[@TolbersCamping]

Yeah they are definitely sweet for certain situations and purposes!

[@Deploracle]

Yep. Mine burned all night when I needed it most.

[@Invisible_Socks]

actually impressed by the camp fire thing

[@Steve-Goff]

I’ve seen those UCO candles in preparedness videos and thought about getting some. Probably better for heating food versus heating rooms.

[@remyllebeau77]

They are more expensive than normal candles. Although there is a video on YT about how to make your own candles to fit the UCO style lantern. I didn't find any cheaper alternative for a cheap candle lantern like UCO on Amazon. I guess China hasn't stolen the patent yet. Haha

[@Deploracle]

The idea is to use a small room. I used my bedroom closet when the power went off (Texas) 2 winters ago. I hung a blanket over the door frame so I could quickly enter and exit without losing too much heat to the freezing cold house. A single candle won't/can't keep your place toasty warm but, you won't freeze to death.

[@fullmoonmaiden777]

Aww, I miss my old Dodge Caravan. I sold it dirt cheap to a family friend and now I've come across your video and already I'm missing it. We went camping in it over the years and it was great fun. I truly appreciate your cool video, take care and God bless 🙌

[@Cactusmack-n9l]

And also, great review of those candles brother. I was skeptical from the beginning. I love my little buddy heater.

[@happydays9613]

Thank you, for showing practical alternatives that might work in smaller vehicles even just for cooking inside. Love it. I am planning on making a purchase as they all seen compact and effective.

[@TolbersCamping]

In a smaller vehicle they would definitely work better for heat. Also nice for emergency backup source

[@ggsmith48906]

Thank you for the video! I like that candle campfire, I will look for that. I did a lot of experiments with different heat sources in my minivan. One normal size flamed candle (aka tealight candle) is about 300 btu (that's a fact, not something I measured). With 5 candles burning you had about 1500 btus of heat in there. In my experience that will hold temps about 20F above outside temps, which is exactly what you were recording. Simply no way that UCO with three candles can produce 5K btus of heat. When off grid I use an old SportsCat 1500 btu catalytic propane heater that I bought years ago and I get the same results you shared. Works great to keep the minivan interior above freezing in winter conditions which is enough for a night's sleep with a proper sleeping bag, but it's not going to warm the van up to sauna temperatures by any means. I too have a Mr. Buddy heater, and at the Lo setting it's 4000 btu and that's almost too warm unless outside temps are really bitter. I switched to a Little Buddy heater, about the same heat (3800 btu) but smaller and easier to store. Another great experiment to get a feel for your needed heat range is get one of those inexpensive electric space heaters which of course you'll need a modern campground with a power pole. A 1500 / 700 watt heater will put out about 5000 / 2500 btus of heat. I've camped in 3F temps at Tahquamenon Falls State Park with that heater on the 1500 watt / 5000 btu setting and it kept inside temps about 65F. At the lo (700 w / 2500 btu) setting I think it kept it about 47F. I use that as a benchmark to compare to flame-sourced heat sources.

[@MoonbeameSmith]

Part of keeping warm is not to let the cold in.. close the windows, you'll be OK for the night. Also, insulate the place you are sleeping.

[@AhJodie]

Thank you for the information and views! I am amazed at how hot those got the soup and water!

[@bubbalo3388]

The candle lamps are cool as they serve multi purpose for lighting, cooking and little heat. The concern is the stability of it by placing a pan on it with such a small cooking surface where it can fall off easily or makes the lamp top heavy. The Radiate candle puts out too much soot.

[@TolbersCamping]

As long as the pan is small like mine it felt very stable, but large pan you’d have to be careful. The radiate candle does put off quiet a bit of soot, but much less toxic then regular spot form a bonfire. Thanks for watching!

[@Deploracle]

@@TolbersCamping Get the Beeswax candles instead.

[@regbillings4955]

@13:36 window says SUB top left lol. Great video, thanks for sharing your car camping adventure.

[@TolbersCamping]

😁

[@StarboyXL9]

Bro you are living crazy cozy. You're in inspiration.

[@ssutherland9019]

I remeber back in the 70s during the power cuts i would have about 6 candles on for the evening to give eniugh light to do things and the house stayed pretty cosy, this was in scotland too.

[@lynnej.9357]

I think those candle heaters would be good to keep in your vehicle for an emergency. Or, as someone else mentioned, if your car and contents were warm to begin with, they might do a fair job of keeping it warm.

[@Dan-yn7ke]

I have 6 hr tealights and an old throw away aluminum pie pan in the trunk for such an occasion.

[@allthingsharbor]

I learned one night that one large three wick candle worked pretty good, too. @@Dan-yn7ke

[@chrisyates399]

So glad that that food warmed up eventually! And the wide angle lens is ace in the van shots.

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks Chris!

[@GregWorzel]

I use the candelier WITH my Mr Heater. I get it warm in my camper with the Mr Heater within 5 minutes and then I turn it off and light the candelier to "maintain" the heat through the night. It slows down the cooling off so I get a complete night of comfortable sleep then I turn the Mr Heater back on in the morning. That's the way to use it.

[@TolbersCamping]

I could definitely see that helping to slow down the heat loss! Only things is then you have to keep a window cracked so some heat loss will leave that way where if you just shut it all once warm it holds alot of heat for many hours also. Thanks for watching bro

[@GregWorzel]

@@TolbersCamping my pleasure. Great video!

[@richroj]

great video Matt, I really enjoy all of your new things you try out in the van. I like the camp fire candles and the safe in the van stickers.

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks Rich! Some longer more fun videos coming soon

[@kandiblick3822]

Thanks for the "test"! I'd seen these candle "heaters" and wondered...glad I caught another awesome Tolber video! :-)...Really enjoy your content!

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks Kandi!

[@jacquelineho8623]

I loved this experiment! 🥰😍 I minivan camp in the winter/snow all the time with candles. I can keep warm at -10C outside with 11-12 tealights (8 hr burn time). One thing I learned is that the minivan is actually 4-5 degrees colder on the floor than the air temp. reading due to the cold draft under the van. Candles do work though...just need a lot more. Love this!! 🙌

[@TolbersCamping]

Yeah if you have a bunch of candles it can definitely do the trick. Quick google search looks like average candles is 80btu, so if you have a 12 going you’re around 1000btu. Still 4 times less than what a mr buddy heater claims on low, but crazy to think this 3 candles claims 5000btu 😁😂 Thanks for watching Jacqueline

[@jacquelineho8623]

Buddy heater is def. warmer but Im scared of using propane indoors 😪 With tealights I spread them around the van so it's not clustered in one area. It's about 17 degrees warmer inside (14 incl. draft from the floor). Love all your videos. It's hard to find minivan winter camping videos on YT. 🤗🤗Theyre almost all van tours.

[@janet1744]

Tealights are fire hazard too.

[@JJM-f3h]

Think about trying a length of bubble wrap or even cardboard to make a skirt under the very bottom of the vehicle to slowdown the wind or cold transfer. Consider a 12volt rv heated mat too. I have always wondered about trying this if I vehicle camped when real cold.

[@risingsun49]

Can put coals in an iron pot like Dutch oven

[@debragriffith6628]

We have a Mr buddy heater an three candle uco and a single candle uco. I love using them all for heat and light as they are needed. I would not want to rely on nothing but the candles for heat! A little is better than nothing but that is not much heat. Good video!

[@lindamarie6574]

Great video! I like when you put verses from the Bible here. I tried that soup and i really like it!lol Stay warm!😊and Safe in the Van!

[@TolbersCamping]

Lol thanks Linda!

[@LonelyProspector-bw1ge]

window frost says sub, - "You got it" thanks for sharing, love winter camping, surprised to see so many other in the campground. Usually a solo experience here in the cold frozen tundra of Colorado. They think they will melt. LOL Very happy to come across your channel. Take care.

[@chrismounts1409]

Another great video man glad you got your cpl you can never be to careful out in the woods by yourself it's a tool and you never know when and where you might need it be safe out there and keep up the great videos

[@TolbersCamping]

For sure, thanks bro!

[@chrismounts1409]

Your very welcome hope your channel gets a million subscribers 1 day you seem like a good person who definitely deserves it you keep making them and I'll definitely keep watching and keep giving the 👍 up

[@brown55061]

The one thing Ive learned is eating carbs right before you get in your bag really keeps you warm. Makes your body burn those calories and work overnight. I read that with a buddy heater you only had to vent the window in a car 1/4" to be suitable for CO. So I bet with the candles you could get away with having one window only cracked the tiniest amount. Might help 5-8 degrees more so its not escaping.

[@Cactusmack-n9l]

Don't ever stop using that CO detector buddy. Great video, but CO is a silent, odorless killer. God bless you Matt.

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

Sad how many whole families got accidentally gassed. One was from a conversion to propane (i thought) on tankless water heater in Mexico. Parents, 2-3 kids and a few pets (2 dogs, I think). Extremely sad and pointless. Also. One of my worst nightmares is open flame with a flammable item. A kid on YT got his blanket by a candle and it went like he was wearing a sweater made of solid gas. Most horrible thing I've seen, next to Travis The Chimp, and Woman in China gets eaten by Escalator. So, maybe put them floating in water or something. Jic.

[@jazzman5598]

I tried candle type…..Sterno….about 1/2 the size of your soup cans. I froze in the northern mountains of New Mexico. It was before I had my 2006 4 Runner built out. You would be better off by far with a camp stove using butane. Fine vid! Good adventure! PS When I woke up it was -11*F……….yep, I was cold….GBU Brother!

[@TolbersCamping]

Dang bro, glad you are still alive to tell the story 😂🥶 God bless you bro!

[@jazzman5598]

And you man! Your snow vids are my favorites!

[@CampMymy]

Very helpful, I have this lantern and always wondered if it would throw off heat, too bad it didn’t warm up more. Thank you!

[@TolbersCamping]

It’s still nice for many purposes, just doesn’t put off the kind of heat they claim. Thanks for watching!

[@wendyorides8337]

I tried to make one of those tin can camp fire things. I used a #10 tin can. I melted a few candles on the stove and stuck pieces of cardboard in the liquid wax. My inspiration came from Timmy of house truck life ammo can fire place. I'm excited to try it. Thanks for the info for the candles. I wondered abt using the candles in conjunction with the mr buddy heater to eliminate some of the moisture put off by the mr. Buddy.

[@TolbersCamping]

That’s awesome, I wonder if yours will work just as well! Low setting on the mr buddy heater is usually enough but I’m sure If I just needed a little more heat the candles would do the job so I don’t need to turn it on high

[@DwayneShaw1]

Couple things - 1) - I'm pretty certain that, even if your van were completely air-tight, it would take days for a couple little candle flames to burn up enough oxygen to be a hazard - and your van ain't air-tight.. (since you have a detector you could easily and safely test this in your driveway at home). 2) - candles are going to be much better at maintaining a temperature than raising it - you should start with warming the space up with your car heater 3) - a candle is only going to produce a finite amount of BTU's - there's nothing you can do to increase that - but the key to heating a space is air circulation - you need a steady temp thru-out, not hot spots around a flame.. and it doesn't take much air flow in a little space like that. Try getting a small low volt van (like a computer fan? - maybe run on a spare power brick for a cellphone?) and mounting it near the ceiling above the candles - gently moving the heat toward where you need it most (and, drawing in colder air to be heated). A combination of keeping windows closed (if test works), preheating the space for the candles to maintain, and moving the air around a bit, will make a big difference in your ability to heat with candles.

[@TolbersCamping]

The main reason I had the windows open so much at first was they claim 6600 btu not including the extra candle I had. My mr buddy on low is only 4000 Btu and will make it 60F+ in no time with with both rear windows wide open. So I was a little shocked it was freezing in there like there was zero heat source at all, even colder than if I had nothing going and windows shut. So I ended up only having one very minimally open to even get the heat to slowly start rising and it also started stinking like candle and made me feel a little weird so wasn’t going to shut completely to get a couple more degrees out of it when you are supposed to have ventilation in small spaces like that. A candle with a bigger flame will create more heat then one with a smaller flame just like a fire, so that’s why I was thinking maybe take the top off for more airflow. Just like when you put the top on a candle as the oxygen level goes down you see the flame shrink until it goes out. The ceiling in the van where all the heat goes to is low and it was freezing up there by my face, basically the candles are just very very low heat source and no where near what they claim. A small fan would not create anymore heat, it would basically just be blowing around the cold air at that point instead of keeping the tiny heat there is around me and the temperature gauge. Yes you could get a ton of them and probably heat up the area, but you’d need even more ventilation which would release more heat and draw more cold air, cost much more than alternatives heating sources and have a much higher chance of starting a fire. Let alone all the wax and smoke you’d be breathing in. They are nice for an emergency backup but not much more. Thanks for watching bro

[@DwayneShaw1]

@@TolbersCamping I don't think candle heat is a good idea - was just talking about optimizing the potential IF you're going to test the concept- but, I still say the ventilation thing, though important in certain circumstances, is exaggerated when it comes to burning a candle. - and you are woefully underestimating the benefit of a bit of air movement in heating a space - what ever the heat source may be - have fun out there .. * - I wouldn't camp in harsh conditions, myself - but if I did - I would start with a heated space, and maintain it with a single burner camp stove - on low (or higher if needed)- with the aforementioned small fan above - you don't need as many BTU's if you circulate the air a bit - and using the camp stove eliminates the need for carrying a heater.

[@TolbersCamping]

@@DwayneShaw1 if you are directly by the heat source, that will be the warmest spot. If you want to even out the air in the room or if you are far away from it the fan can help. The thing is it was such a small heat source the only spot where I could really feel warmth was right over it. The ceiling was cold and front of van was freezing, if I was to even out that air the temperature would drop near me and the temperature gauge, that’s what I’m trying to say lol. But yes I agree a candle is not the best option, it was just a test to see if it really lives up to what it claims. It’s doable with more candles and maybe a sheet to block off the front part of the van but why do that when there are better options for cheaper. Thanks for watching bro

[@77MRVIC]

Buy some crisco use as a candle use stainless steel dog plates to trap the heat and bricks or lava rocks or make a sand heater use carbon felt as a wick for fuel cooking oil or alcohol

[@lfauver6965]

Love your channel Really enjoy watching you test out and experiment with new camping equipment Keep up the good work

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks! More coming soon

[@annhysell6064]

Interesting.. I wanted to attempt this experiment myself, Thanks for saving me the trouble! As a 1st time viewer, I will continue to watch & go back to check out your previous vids. Be well.

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks Ann!

[@wtfu812omg]

I think the reason that it didn’t really warm up too much is because not only the windows being opened as much as they were but you did have those candles hire up at first and a hot here. There’s only traveling inches to the top of the interior roof of the van. keeping them on the floor allows to rise but realistically, I think these were created for tent, camping and keeping warm. It’s a smaller area in a smaller volume of air to be heated and it’s all contained and most cars aren’t as well insulated as you think they are they won’t retain heat and when you actually have the car running and put the heater on, you have to understand that that’s constantly running at a higher degree and that’s why you’re warm but as soon as you shut the heat off, you can automatically tell it starts to get cold quickly in a car. I agree the best bet would be Mr. buddy heater but I think I definitely would try multiple triple candle heaters. Keep up tye good videos 👍🏻

[@TolbersCamping]

Yeah I shut the windows almost all the way with the window shades on and put the candles on the floor and still was nowhere near enough heat after waiting a couple hours. While driving your vehicle will lose heat much quicker than when parked with window shades. Generally when I heat the van up while camping before shutting it off for bed it will take quiet a few hours for that heat to fully leave. A small 1 or 2 person tent with low ceiling I could see it helping a decent amount, but nothing major. You could definitely heat the van up with many of the candle heaters but it would be alot which would mean much more airflow needed, so more heat loss out the windows, more cold air rushing in, more smoke and wax to breath in and higher chance of something catching on fire. They are nice for certain situations and emergency backup, just not something I’d recommend for heating a van when there are much better options out there. Thanks for watching bro

[@davethedoginist]

Dude- your channel is awesome! Now I have to binge watch them all!

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks bro, hope I don’t disappoint 😂

[@davethedoginist]

@@TolbersCamping I love your set up- I may be a big fat copy cat

[@TolbersCamping]

@@davethedoginist no worries bro, we all take ideas from each other. I have some small upgrades coming soon 😁

[@ernieschatz3783]

The candle experience... but the long wait and lack of heat is made better with...Campbell's Cunky Soup?! I love the unique content of this episode. Seeing alternative ways of doing thigs is always interesting. That said, the Canadians and darn near everyone else have the cuisine sorted way better than most American camping channels 😆First step in any recipe "Go to the cupboard, get the can."

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks and yeah it’s good for warming stuff up very slowly, but not sure I’d want to try and cook a real meal on that low of a heat source lol. I do enjoy trying things like this as I’m curious and if it can helps others at least have more of an idea if it’s something for them it’s worth it.

[@ren11164]

This american heads to the cabinet first too. lol Chunky soup is awesome.

[@valerief1231]

@@TolbersCamping I first learned about the Candlier from RoseRed Homestead here on YT, this senior couple really amaze me, she’s a college professor (science iirc) and really sold me on the same candlier you are using, and it’s in my Amazon wishlist, as I’m building a camper van. I really appreciate your exercise here giving me a realist understanding. I have gotten a lot of good ideas here in the comment section, especially regarding heating the fabrics and textures in the space before the air can warm. I do have Mr. Buddy heater or is it, Mr. Heater Buddy? Lol! I’m in Texas so COLD to me is 40° F 😂

[@Tsiri09]

i've seen other videos with uco candles (the 3 candle version) being used for heat. it does work, you only used one and two single candles. I wouldn't try to cook with one- but you did get the temp higher than the outside. Thank you for the links to the cool items you used- they're going on my list. I cook with a coleman butane stove.

[@pc-yx9uh]

Thanks for sharing! I wondered long time about those candles. It is neat to know you can cook on them. My minivan is a quarter the size of your van. Might try it in a much smaller space for emergencies.

[@TolbersCamping]

They are really neat and good for backup emergency situations. If you have a very small space it will definitely work better for you

[@ShiryouOni]

At least they look kinda cool!

[@freeheel748]

The mistake you made is hanging them so high. The air will only be heated above the candles. Put them on the floor or use a fan to mix the stratified air.

[@TolbersCamping]

I tried both ways and didn’t make a difference, it’s just not enough heat unfortunately.

[@lindagonzales4559]

I love your channel! I started watching another channel today called Bad Boy Hippi, he’s a young man living in his van without money or a job. I feel bad for him , maybe you can reach out to him and give him some tips to help him survive during these very cold nights in his van. He gets donations from his viewers and tries to buy what he can when he can. Keep up the good work by keeping us interested and informed.👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@joelcandy]

Eating some tacos 🌮 watching this.

[@darthmperator]

TACO TACO TACO>>>>>>>>>>

[@bigwillyj4083]

The small collapsible one with one candle we use in the Alps for light and to prevent sub zero temperatures in emergency situations. It is easy to pack on a day hike. But open fire is always a risk so we keep it as much as possible outside the shelter under normal circumstances. A zeltbahn with plastic foil in front of it and over it will preserve the heat of a campfire several feet away from the shelter. Reflective foil at the back of the shelter increases the effectiveness but is noisy and annoying to put up. For car camping i would recommend keeping it closed as much as possible after stopping in winter to conserve heat. And keep a well inclosed tea light or lantern burn while you are doing camp chors to prevent the temperature dropping fast. But like i said they only prevent the inside freezing over not the cooling down to unpleasant temperature. Always have a good wool blanket and a sleeping bag with you. Wearing a hat and a good base layer will keep you more comfortable. And make sure you have dry and warm feet getting in. Stay safe and healthy have a great 2025.

[@DRONETREADONME]

I have that 3X UCO candle - the top gets hot, but not too much more. I wonder if a Coleman Dual-Fuel lantern is CO safe because they pump out a buttload of heat. Keep up the content 🤙

[@TolbersCamping]

Really, thanks interesting and I may have to try it out!

[@jerryburgwin4375]

Couldn’t sleep and came upon your video awesome review try a Colman lantern curious if that would heat your van? Love the van set up

[@vickilindberg6336]

Thanks. I wondered about those lanterns. Maybe the little one to keep my plants from freezing if power goes out.

[@TolbersCamping]

If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! Matthew 7:11

[@teresap.5991]

Hallelujah... Means praise Yahuah. 💕🙌🙌🙌

[@LifeWithLeMaige]

Amen

[@smokingisbadmtherfcker2537]

Good question.

[@elliottaldersonNICK]

Ram ram 👍🏿 nice question

[@kesingeorge5333]

Amen

[@JJM-f3h]

If I were to build a van camper, I would consider having a deep cycle battery and a radiant heating underfloor mat under a piece of carpet, or just a plain 12v rv radiant rug. I also wonder this- you know how the underpinning of a mobile home is, try a video of using 1/2" foam board or even bubblewrap as an underpinning skirt wrapped around the very bottom of the van. I bet alot of heat conducts up from the cold outside ambient.

[@GP-du3qq]

the thing is, candles are made of paraffin: you're going to breath in their fumes, which are toxic.

[@harmonys2102]

I have this same candle lantern. I changed out the stock candles for beeswax in similar sizes. The wax is messy and the lantern is sooty, but I assume the stock candles would yield the same result.

[@GP-du3qq]

@@harmonys2102 I would use methylated spirits, which are cheap and safe or butane cans.

[@knitterknitter9939]

Thanks for your experiment of the candle heater. I bought one but haven't tried it yet, and now I know it's just good for light and cooking. Thanks for all you do.

[@offroadrover]

Hi. Just thinking about those candle heaters. Heat rises so putting them up high near the roof of car maybe would be less affective than putting them low on the floor. Also how long did that heater last outside, it looks pretty good

[@TolbersCamping]

Yeah that’s why I had one on the floor and one low. The campfire lasted about 3 or 4 hours

[@vittopillo6785]

You are on the right track. I went through the same experience with little success until I found the BULLETSHAKER Camping Mini heater Warming Stove. They are supper cheap but they capture the heat from the candles. I also converted from candles to Vodka bottles filled with lamp oil. The conversion was very simple it made a big difference. I stack 2 of them on top of each other. Camping in winter is fun. ;)

[@jenniferpetrellicarslearni2265]

Thank you for the video. How do you attach the reflective material to the window?

[@mikecohen2400]

Since heat rises the best place to put the candle lanterns is on the floor, you might want to build a simple holder so they won’t tip over, and two of the three candle units should trough off 10,000 btu more then enough to heat a car, or mini van interior. Note these particular lanterns are pricey, you could do the same thing with six large glass candles in a baking pan. If you can keep the temperature in the 40+ range you are fine, the object is to not use the engine to get heat both to save what gas you have, and to prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning if the tail pipe gets blocked by snow. Don’t forget your winter car blankets, and a 2 inch thick piece of rigid foam insulation cut to size to put on the floor of the car, this will help to keep your feet warm, as cars have little or no real insulation, and will quickly wick heat.

[@TolbersCamping]

To get 10,000 true btu it would take a bunch of those candles, much more than you think. The mr buddy heater on low is only 4000 Btu and atleast 3-4 times warmer that then 3 candle holder is. A temperature of 40F right next to the candles is ok while sleeping, but not comfortable at all during the day. The floor and most of the front of the van were well below that with the 5 candles I had going. Also the more candles you have going the more ventilation you will need which means more heat loss out window, cold air blowing in, breathing in smoke and wax all night and higher chance of a fire. The main thing was to test if they lived up to the true btu them claim which they don’t even come close unfortunately. They are nice for certain purposes and emergency situations, just not something I would recommend for heating a van or anything similar when there are better options. Thanks for watching bro!

[@ec9833]

@@TolbersCamping I honestly feel mike is right on a lot of this. It’s below freezing outside and there’s no insulation, you weren’t using all the reflectix, the placement wasn’t accounted for, that the best those candles could do would simply go right on through the ceiling, the floor, windows and then having two windows cracked…I really don’t think this was controlling for all the variables, bud. But if they can boil water…they’d be giving off decent heat. You just have to trap it better to see what they can really do. 😉

[@DaPepster]

I totally agree with this one. Try putting the three candle unit on the floor next time and see if it helps heating the van more. I would think it would if it can heat up a can of chunky soup in 30 minutes.

[@TolbersCamping]

I love you guys, but you are not getting what I’m saying lol. My mr buddy heater on low is 4000 btu and will heat it up to 60F+ in no time with both rear windows wide open. This candle setup the company rates at 6600 btu and I had to close the windows almost completely to get the temp to rise to low 40s over couple hours time. One window was completely shut and the other was as minimally open as possible, I tried to shut it all the way but it stated stinking like candles to much and giving me a headache so I had to have a tiny bit of airflow. I looked up how much btu a candle truly puts off and it’s 80btu so with the 4 plus my extra that’s only 400btu total unlike the 6600 btu the company claims. So the mr buddy puts off 10 times as much heat, there was no area in that van that was warm at all including the ceiling. Yes you could put a sheet up to block off the front, add 3 more of the 3x candles and smoke yourself out to get some heat but it’s not worth it when there are better options for heating faster and cheaper. These are nice for an emergency backup, just not something I’d recommend for a main heating source at all.

[@faolansforest8574]

In order to get the most heat out of those you need to line the inside of the glass with a cut to fit soft drink can. I believe the 12 ounce cans are tall enough. When inserting, keep the design facing out. Focused reflection of the heat should get better results.

[@Can_ada_y_ou_tube]

Who saw “sub” in the window frost?

[@TolbersCamping]

Good catch 😂😂 I tried to make it hard to see for fun

[@suhtangwong]

Subliminal message! Lol good thing I subscribed while back.

[@poweroflove993]

Wow. Thanks for letting us know candles can heat small spaces if done safely! 🎉. Enjoy your comfortable van.

[@christiansculinarycreations]

Love camping in the snow 🤘🤘

[@RichPohlman]

I used to use a single UCO candle lantern in my completely enclosed North Face Dome tent winter camping. It kept it warm inside. Cracking one front window 1/4 of an inch would be enough ventilation.

[@poprostunadworze]

Thanks for translating temperatures. Godspeed.

[@mitcheustis2446]

Got to try it before you knock it. Absolutely love your videos Matt! I've rewatched many of your videos numerous times, they're so peaceful and relaxing! Always looking forward to your next one! God bless brother!

[@TolbersCamping]

So true and thanks Mitch! God bless you bro

[@maria-8077]

Thank you so much for taking us along and showing us. & as always God bless you and your family. And stay safe! Cannot wait for your next one. I'm always looking out for your videos. 👍😊❤️

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks Maria, God bless you!

[@hauk3839]

I was wondering about those candle heaters in my van. I'm glad you tried them before me😎👍

[@tammieflemal7871]

Cooking using candles… I did that for days after losing electricity after Super Storm Sandy decided to pound Long Island. Takes longer but it works

[@AuLily1]

I camp in my SUV. I have a remote start switch which is so nice. I can remain cozy in my rack and it only takes 15 minutes to get comfortable with the SUV's heating system.

[@Luke-f2f]

Nice to see a video on this UCO candle setup. I purchased 10 of these in various configurations. My main idea is to use them for light.Haven't had the time away from work to test them. They are a bit pricey. Thanks 👍

[@benjaminclingaman7551]

Hey Matt that fire pit candle burner was cool It melted the snow and possibly ground out a little bit.

[@stevewoods8116]

Just subbed. I would have kept the widows closed. The wide angle lens looks great! 🎉

[@dave_bed]

I'm still amazed you film with an iPhone, amazing quality!

[@MrBeatenpath]

im a big fan of instant coffee packets for camping...thanks for the video

[@th-cc6ei]

Really depends on the outside temp. I stayed out in -5 and even an electric heater was not enough. Sub zero temps get inside even if its illegal.

[@someonesprincess3]

oh wow the wide angle is awesome .. great upload ! ❤👍🏼👍🏼✌🏼

[@TolbersCamping]

Thanks 😁

[@jamessuggs4656]

In a milder climate I'm sure those candle things would work also you should have placed them on the floor in order to create convection for your air to circulate

[@milesandmemoriesonthebackr8244]

I use the 3- Candle lantern. To be effective you need to take an aluminum can with top and bottom removed and place around inside of lantern. More reflective heat, which is what you need. Very effective. Best option is to run car heater for about 10 minutes to get space warmed. Easier to heat the space and keep it warmed if it’s warm to start with. Have a good one.

[@TolbersCamping]

I’ve seen someone do that so it stays dark in their vehicle while running them at night. Either way that won’t create more heat, it may help move the heat differently but that’s it. Im sure running the van and getting it warm first with give the candle more of a chance to fight off the cold, but you’d still have to crack the window and that heat will go down no matter what. At that point I’d rather just keep the windows shut which would also help keep the heat in and not have to run a bunch of candles. It is a cool tool for certain situations, just no where near the btu they claim

[@milesandmemoriesonthebackr8244]

@@TolbersCamping I’ve used the candle lantern at 28°F and inside was never below 50°F inside. Reflectics on window. One window open about an inch. Buddy heaters cause way too much condensation in rig for me and fuel is much more expensive than a few ca does. But in the end, We all have preferences and ideals that work best for us. Be safe and happy. And warm. We’ll see you out there.

[@Purpleroses]

ICame Back To Say Than You For Testing These Items. It Help Save Money And Not Get Caught Freezing. I Always Tell People To Take That Alcohol AS A Secondary Heat For Emergencies. It Doesn't Go Bad. Great n Safe Travels

[@suebaxter301]

that is interesting what you put on your windows, what were they, i wonder if emergency thermal blankets would work just as well

[@kirareoh1143]

I love your set-up - it makes me want to get a van again!