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Portable saunas have become a convenient way to enjoy the benefits of heat therapy at home. From compact steam tents to high-tech infrared domes and even sauna blankets, there’s an option for every space and budget.
In comparing the top portable sauna models of 2025, we thoroughly tested and reviewed together with Sebastien and Holly to see how they actually perform. Below are our best picks in various categories, each with a balance of pros and cons based on hands-on use, technical specs, and value.
Read on to get to know each product in detail.
The 9 Best Portable Saunas to Buy in 2025
We tested and analyzed the top portable saunas of 2025 based on heating performance, comfort, build quality, portability, ease of use, and value for money. After thorough hands-on evaluation, these saunas stood out as the best in their categories.
- Best Overall: SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro
- Best in Portability: Heat Healer Energy Sauna
- Best in Price Value: SereneLife Portable Steam Sauna
- Best for Space-Saving: MiHIGH Infrared Sauna Blanket
- Best in Features: Therasage Thera360 Plus
- Best for Luxury: Sunlighten Solo System
- Best for Convenience: Relax Far Infrared Sauna
- Best for Outdoors: SweatTent Wood-Fired Sauna Tent
- Best for Indoors: Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket
How We Rated The Portable Saunas
Throughout this review, I worked alongside Sebastien and Holly to test each sauna for performance, comfort, and practicality. We also factored in opinions and ratings from our community to get a well-rounded perspective on real-world usability. These insights helped shape our final ratings.
We assessed how quickly and effectively each sauna heated up. A good portable sauna should reach optimal temperatures within 10-15 minutes and maintain consistent heat throughout the session.
The overall user experience matters. We evaluated whether the sauna provided ample space, if seating was comfortable, and whether the design minimized discomfort from prolonged use.
Durability is key. We looked at the construction materials, including insulation, zippers, and heating panels, to ensure the sauna could withstand regular use without degrading.
Since these saunas are designed to be portable, we considered how easy they were to set up, take down, and store. Compact designs and lightweight materials scored higher in this category.
A great portable sauna should be simple to operate. We reviewed how intuitive the controls were, whether assembly was hassle-free, and if the included accessories enhanced usability.
We compared the price of each sauna against its features, durability, and effectiveness. A higher price doesn’t always mean better quality, so we ensured that each pick offered good value for its cost.
Best Overall: SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro
We rated the SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro a 4.35 because it heats fast, gets really steamy, and feels like a real sauna. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to dry it out after each use.
SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro Specifications
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For an all-around great portable sauna, a steam tent like the SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro delivers a satisfying sauna experience at home. “After using it for several weeks, I was impressed by how quickly it produces a drenching sweat”, Sebastien said. The sauna heats water in an external 1.8L SmartSteam unit and pipes vapor into the insulated pop-up tent, creating a humid heat up to about 130 °F (54 °C) inside.
That temperature might sound modest, but with nearly 100% humidity, it feels as intense as a traditional steam room – my heart rate climbs and sweat pours within 10–15 minutes of starting a session. In fact, the heat and humidity is quite intense, so it’s nice that the tent has a zippered window I can crack open for airflow if needed.
I found 30-minute sessions in the SaunaBox left me relaxed and even helped ease some muscle soreness after workouts, much like a spa steam sauna would.
Setup and use are straightforward. The SaunaBox tent pops up and folds down easily and even comes with a carry bag, so storage is simple. At roughly $400–$450 (often under $500), it’s an investment, but still far cheaper than a wooden sauna room.
Seven steam output levels allow adjusting the temperature, and I typically use the highest setting to really sweat. One thing I learned quickly is to give the unit a quick cleaning after each use. Because so much moisture accumulates, you need to wipe down and air out the tent and floor mat after each session to prevent any mildew or odor.
This added cleanup is a small hassle, but it comes with the territory for steam saunas. On the plus side, the materials are advertised as antimicrobial, BPA-free, and free of harmful microplastics, which eased my worries about any plastic smell or off-gassing.
In practice, I noticed only a slight “new sauna” smell the first use, and none thereafter. In terms of size, the SaunaBox is roomy enough for me to sit comfortably on the included folding chair (it’s a 35″ × 35″ footprint and about 74″ tall, so even a taller person can fit fully inside).
It’s strictly a one-person sauna, of course, but that’s expected for a portable unit. The whole kit (tent + steamer) weighs around 15–20 lbs, so it’s reasonably portable if you want to move it. Another consideration is that this is a wet sauna – you’ll be dripping wet after, and the interior will be damp, so it’s best used on a waterproof floor mat or in a garage/bathroom area if possible. Still, for delivering an authentic steam sauna feel at home, the SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro hits the mark as the best overall choice in my experience. It combines effective performance, solid build quality, and value, with the main downsides being routine drying/maintenance and the fact that steam heat might be too intense for some folks who prefer a dry sauna
Best in Portability: Heat Healer Energy Sauna
The Heat Healer Energy Sauna got a 4.34 because of its strong infrared heat, red light therapy, and PEMF features. It’s on the pricier side and takes up space, but the extra features make up for it.
Heat Healer Energy Sauna Specifications
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The Heat Healer Energy Sauna takes the top spot for best portability because it’s one of the most compact, lightweight, and easy-to-use portable saunas out there. Weighing only 9 kg (around 20 lbs), it’s much lighter than other infrared sauna tents, making it easier to move around and store. Unlike some bulky sauna tents that feel like a pain to set up and break down, this one folds up neatly and doesn’t take up much space when not in use. If you live in an apartment or just don’t have a dedicated area for a sauna, this one is a solid choice.
Another thing I appreciate is the full-body infrared coverage (Holly loves leaving no crumbs behind). For people under 6 feet tall, the Heat Healer offers a comfortable, full-bodied sauna experience, meaning most of your body gets heated evenly inside the tent. However, one thing to note is that your head remains outside the sauna. This is actually a plus for some people since keeping your head out can prevent that overwhelming sauna heat that makes you feel too drained. But if you’re someone who likes full immersion, this might be a small drawback.
Setting it up is super simple—just unfold the tent, place the included chair inside, connect the heating footpad and control unit, and you’re good to go. It heats up quickly and reaches temperatures of 25°C to 75°C (77°F to 167°F) in about 5-10 minutes. This is impressive for a portable sauna, and because it uses infrared heat instead of steam, there’s no moisture buildup to deal with after a session. That means less maintenance and cleaning, which is another huge plus if you want something low-effort. Just wipe it down, let it air out, and fold it up for storage.
Another big advantage is that it includes built-in red light therapy and PEMF therapy, so you’re getting more than just infrared heat. These extra features are usually found in much pricier wellness devices, so having them combined in a single, lightweight sauna is a major bonus.
If you’re looking for a sauna that’s powerful yet easy to move and store, the Heat Healer checks all the boxes. It’s lightweight, compact, and quick to set up, making it a great choice for small spaces or people who want a sauna without committing to a permanent setup.
Best in Price Value: SereneLife Portable Steam Sauna
The SereneLife Portable Steam Sauna earned a 4.21 for being affordable, easy to set up, and good for basic steam sessions. The materials are a bit thin, so it doesn’t hold heat as well as some others.
SereneLife Portable Steam Sauna Specifications
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If you’re looking for an affordable way to sauna at home, the SereneLife Portable Sauna offers great bang for your buck. This tent-style sauna costs around $100, making it one of the most budget-friendly options available. Despite the low price, it provides a functional personal sauna experience.
The SereneLife I used is a steam sauna model with a compact fabric enclosure and a small electric steamer unit. It draws about 1600 W and can heat the tent to roughly 120–130 °F in practice
In my sessions, the temperature typically leveled off around 120 °F, which, while lower than expensive saunas, was still enough to get me sweating profusely for 20–30 minutes. The humid heat (it’s essentially like a mini steam room) made it feel hotter than the number suggests. For me, sitting in this sauna for half an hour worked up a healthy sweat and left me feeling relaxed and less tense.
One of the best aspects is how simple and quick it is to set up. The SereneLife sauna is basically a folding chair inside a reflective thermal tent – you unfold the tent, place the chair inside, fill the steamer pot with water, and plug it in. It reaches operating temperature in about 5–10 minutes. Given its lightweight build, I was a bit skeptical of durability, but after months of use it’s held up fine. The walls are a thin insulated fabric, and while it’s not the most robust construction, it does the job especially if you treat it gently. I did notice a bit of heat loss from zipper seams, but nothing major. For safety, it has an auto shut-off timer and remote control to adjust heat and time, which is handy if you want to change settings while zipped inside.
Using the SereneLife daily, I came to appreciate how it makes regular sauna sessions feasible on a tight budget. I mostly use it for relaxation and to loosen up muscles. The small footprint (around 3′ × 3′ when in use) means I can set it up in a corner of my apartment and fold it away after – a big benefit in a small space. Because it’s inexpensive, there are some compromises. The maximum heat is limited – at times I wished it ran a bit hotter, especially on cold days, as it tops out around 125 °F in my experience
Also, being a steam sauna, the interior gets wet, and you’ll need to wipe down condensation and let it dry. I’ve gotten into the habit of lining the floor with a towel to catch drip sweat, which helps with cleanup. Another consideration is longevity; some owners have reported the steam generator can wear out after a year or two. Mine is still going strong, but I make sure not to run it dry or leave it on unattended, just to be safe.
Just manage expectations: it’s a “sweat tent” after all, and while it’s well-reviewed by beginners, seasoned sauna-goers might find the heat output modest.
For the price, however, I have no complaints.
Best for Space-Saving: MiHIGH Infrared Sauna Blanket
We gave the MiHIGH Sauna Blanket a 4.24 since it’s portable, heats well, and is easy to store. It would be even better if it fully covered the body, but it still does a good job.
MiHIGH Infrared Sauna Blanket Specifications
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If you’re in a tight-spaced apartment or want something that doesn’t take over your living room, the MiHIGH Infrared Sauna Blanket is one of the best options for space-saving infrared therapy. Unlike bulky sauna tents or full sauna domes, this blanket rolls up neatly after each use, making it easy to store in a drawer or closet. Despite its compact design, it still delivers far-infrared heat up to 167°F, which is on par with many larger infrared saunas. The waterproof, non-toxic PU leather exterior is built to withstand frequent use, and the Velcro closure system ensures a snug fit for different body sizes. For those who want the benefits of an infrared sauna but don’t have the space for a full setup, this is one of the most practical choices available.
In use, the MiHIGH performs surprisingly well compared to traditional sauna setups. I expected a blanket-style sauna to feel weaker than a full tent, but within 10-15 minutes, I was sweating just as much as I would in an infrared sauna enclosure. The heat wraps evenly around your body, creating a more immersive experience than simply using an infrared heating pad or lamp. Since your head remains outside, you avoid that stuffy, enclosed feeling that some people find uncomfortable in sauna tents. I found it especially useful for post-workout recovery, as the deep infrared heat helps relax sore muscles and improve circulation. If I use it before bed, I also sleep better—likely because my body is fully relaxed after a session.
Of course, the biggest advantage here is the convenience. Unlike sauna tents that take 5-10 minutes to set up, the MiHIGH is ready to go instantly—just unroll it, plug it in, and select your heat level. Afterward, cleanup is minimal; a quick wipe-down prevents sweat buildup, and it folds away easily. However, it’s strictly a one-person sauna, so if you’re looking for something to share, a tent or full sauna setup might be a better option. Since your head remains outside, you won’t get the same full-body heat circulation as you would in a larger sauna, but this also makes it more comfortable for longer sessions.
At around $450, the MiHIGH is one of the most affordable infrared sauna options that still provides a strong, effective sweat session. If you want the benefits of infrared heat without sacrificing space, it’s hard to beat. For small apartments, frequent travelers, or anyone who prefers a simpler, more flexible sauna setup, this is one of the most practical and efficient choices available.
Best in Features: Therasage Thera360 Plus
We rated the Therasage Thera360 PLUS a 4.19 because it heats up well, has full-spectrum infrared, and even includes red light therapy. The only downside is that it’s a bit small, and the included chair isn’t the most comfortable.
Therasage Thera360 PLUS Portable Sauna Specifications
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For those who want the most tech and wellness features in a portable sauna, the Therasage Thera360 PLUS stands out. This is a high-end far-infrared sauna tent packed with advanced features: full-spectrum infrared heating panels (emitting far, mid, and near infrared), built-in red light therapy LEDs, and a tourmaline gemstone heating element that releases negative ions for “grounding” benefits.
Using the Thera360 Plus feels like stepping into a mini wellness pod. Unlike steam saunas, it provides a dry heat via infrared. I was amazed that despite its compact size, the Thera360 got incredibly hot – up to 170 °F setpoint
I typically saw around 150–165 °F inside the tent, which is on par with some full-size wooden saunas. It takes only about 10–15 minutes to preheat to operating temperature, so I can decide to sauna and be sweating shortly after. The intensity of the heat had me dripping sweat and breathing deeply, achieving a strong cardio effect similar to much larger saunas.
What really sets this unit apart are the extra therapies integrated into it. The front panels emit near-infrared and visible red light in addition to heat, which I noticed help gently warm the skin and purportedly promote skin health and circulation (many spas charge extra for red light therapy, so it’s neat to have it included).
The negative ions from the tourmaline stones are a subtle touch – I can’t feel ions per se, but the air does feel fresh and there’s no plastic smell at all. In fact, Therasage made the tent from non-toxic materials with no detectable off-gassing, which was reassuring.
On first use, there was zero chemical odor, so they live up to the low-EMF, low-VOC claims. Another thoughtful feature is the grounding pad under the feet that’s meant to neutralize electrical charge; again, it’s hard to measure that benefit, but I did consistently feel very relaxed and invigorated after sessions, more so than in basic saunas I’ve tried.
The Thera360 PLUS is very easy to use despite the tech inside. It unfolds in minutes and plugs into a standard outlet (it draws about 1300W). A wired remote control lets you set the temperature (up to 170 °F) and session duration.
I usually do 30-minute sessions at max heat. One thing to note: you sit with your head outside – it comes with a comfortable folding chair and a zippered neck collar. The collar is removable and washable, which is great because it does absorb sweat around your neck. The tent is roomy enough for me (I’m about 5’9″); there’s enough space to move my arms a bit or even read a book through the hand slots. However, you cannot lie down or fully stretch out in this – it’s a seated sauna only, which could be a drawback for some. Also, it’s a one-person unit by design.
In terms of drawbacks, the biggest is the price. At roughly $1,100–$1,200, it’s many times the cost of simpler portable saunas. That said, considering you get full-spectrum infrared + red light + negative ion therapy in one, I consider it a reasonable value for a wellness enthusiast.
Another minor con is that the included chair, while functional, isn’t the most robust – larger users might want to swap in a stronger seat. For me it was fine, though. The Therasage also doesn’t fold as flat as some cheap tents; it’s a bit bulkier with the panels, but it still folds up and can be stored in a carry bag that comes with it. Weighing about 23 lbs, it’s portable enough if you need to move it room to room.
Best for Luxury: Sunlighten Solo System
We gave the Sunlighten Solo System a 4.30 because it’s comfortable, has great infrared heat, and is low-EMF. It takes up a bit more space and costs the most, but it’s a solid option.
Sunlighten Solo System Specifications
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For a premium sauna experience at home, the Sunlighten Solo Sauna is my top pick. This is a far-infrared sauna designed as a lay-down dome – essentially two half-cylinder dome pieces that cover your body while you lie on a memory foam pad. In terms of luxury, it’s akin to having a personal infrared spa capsule. The Solo delivers high infrared heat (up to 150 °F) and maintains it consistently, rivaling full-size wooden saunas
I found it takes about 25–30 minutes to preheat fully to the max temperature, but once there it holds at ~150 °F very reliably
The heat surrounds your body from all sides, and I noticed I sweat even more profusely lying in the Solo than I do sitting in a tent sauna, likely because more of my body surface is heated evenly. After 30-40 minutes inside, I emerge completely drenched and deeply relaxed.
The build quality and feel of the Sunlighten Solo justify its luxury label. The interior pad is a soft, insulated mat that’s comfortable to lie on (though you will want a towel over it for sweat). The two dome shells slide or “telescope” together to adjust to your height. I’m able to fully cover from feet to neck (it fits up to about 6 feet tall individuals). Sunlighten equipped the dome with five separate heating zones that can be controlled individually – for instance, I can set a lower heat for my legs and higher for my core, which is a nice customization feature. It also includes built-in chromotherapy lighting with multiple color modes.
To be honest, I was skeptical about chromotherapy (colored lights intended to enhance mood/health), but the gentle glow inside the dome does add to a soothing ambiance. Whether it’s placebo or not, I did feel very tranquil when using the blue or green light settings during a session. One thing that stands out is the insulation and safety of the Solo design – despite reaching high temperatures inside, the exterior of the dome stays cool to touch.
This speaks to the quality of materials and makes it safer to use in a home without worrying about burning something if you brush against it. The unit is quite heavy (the dome is about 49 lbs and the pad 13 lbs)
It’s portable in the sense that you can pack the two dome pieces into one another and fold up the pad, but it’s not as grab-and-go as a sauna tent. There’s no carry bag included; when not in use, I slide the nested domes into a closet. So, while movable, it’s best for someone who has a dedicated space to set it up semi-permanently. Keep in mind this is strictly a one-person sauna (and a rather snug one at that). The inner lying width is about 28 inches, which is comfortable for me, but a person with a broader frame or shoulders might feel cramped. Similarly, the dome height is 18″ – it covers you fine when you’re flat, but you can’t sit up inside it.
From a user experience perspective, the Solo is pure relaxation. Lying down during a sauna session feels more restorative to me – I often nearly doze off. I also noticed the even infrared heat penetrates deeply; Sunlighten claims it raises core body temperature effectively, and I believe it – I often continue sweating even after I exit, indicating a good core heat buildup. The digital control panel lets you adjust each zone’s temperature, though I agree with some critiques that the interface isn’t the most intuitive at first. There are actually two remotes: one for the dome heaters and one for the mat heater. Once I read the manual and got the hang of it, it was fine, but it’s not as simple as a single dial. That’s a minor nitpick for an otherwise top-tier product.
The elephant in the room is the price: the Sunlighten Solo is roughly $2,000 (pricing can vary and the company often requires a quote)
It’s by far the priciest portable unit on this list. From a value standpoint, this is a luxury splurge for sure. Some longtime sauna users debate if the Solo is “worth it” compared to cheaper tents, and I did see mixed opinions – a few users felt it wasn’t as great as expected for the money, especially if they had issues with size or controls. In my case, I had a very positive experience: it provides an enveloping heat that truly mimics a spa sauna session, and the build quality is excellent.
But I would only recommend it for those who are serious about infrared sauna therapy and willing to invest in a premium product. If you do, you’ll get a low-EMF, high-performance infrared sauna that’s quiet, comfortable, and effective. I treat it as an investment in long-term wellness. It’s also backed by a robust warranty (Sunlighten offers up to 7 years on the heating elements), which adds peace of mind. Overall, the Solo System is the pinnacle of at-home portable saunas – luxurious, feature-rich, and highly effective – with the main downsides being its steep cost and space needs. It’s the closest you’ll come to a professional sauna in a portable form.
Best for Convenience: Relax Far Infrared Sauna
The Relax Far Infrared Sauna got a 4.07 because it heats up quickly and gets really hot. It’s a bit bulky and more expensive than some others, but it does its job well.
Relax Far Infrared Sauna Specifications
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When it comes to convenience and ease of use, the Relax Far Infrared Sauna is a clear winner. This is a pop-up infrared sauna tent known for its lightning-fast heat-up and simple operation. In daily use, I found the Relax sauna essentially removes any hassle that might prevent you from taking a sauna – it heats up in about 30 seconds and reaches therapeutic heat levels in just a few minutes. Unlike many infrared saunas that require 10–15 minutes preheating, the Relax’s proprietary ceramic far-infrared emitters blast heat almost instantly. I often start feeling a sweat coming on within 5 minutes of zipping myself inside. This means if I’m short on time or feeling lazy, I can still fit in a quick 15-20 minute session and get substantial benefits.
The design is straightforward: a foldable tent (available in silver or black material) and a dual radiator heater unit that sits on the floor. For convenience, I really appreciate that the tent folds up like a small rectangle (similar to a sun visor) when not in use – it’s much more compact than most competitors, so storing or traveling with it is easy
Setting it up is as simple as unfolding the chair and tent, and plugging in the heater. There’s no water to add (it’s dry infrared heat) and no complex controls – just a dial or remote to set the duration and intensity. Maintenance is minimal: after a session, there’s no moisture, so I usually just leave it running empty for a few minutes to self-dry any sweat and then fold it away. The interior is lined with a reflective material that wipes clean easily if needed.
In terms of performance, the Relax Sauna runs at about 140 °F+ effective temperature. It doesn’t have a numeric temperature readout, but subjectively it gets as hot or hotter than any other portable IR sauna I’ve tried. In fact, some testing has shown it to be one of the hottest portable saunas available due to the powerful emitters
The heat feels “deep” and enveloping – the company claims the ceramic generators emit a specific far-infrared wavelength that is readily absorbed by the body, and I can say I do get a quick, vigorous sweat every time. A 20-minute session in the Relax leaves me as soaked as a 40-minute session in some cheaper units, which speaks to its efficiency.
From a comfort standpoint, the tent is a standard sit-up design with your head and hands out. The included chair is okay, though I sometimes use my own for more comfort. One convenience perk: because the heat comes from the bottom unit, I can even unzip the tent and step out briefly to cool down without waiting for a heater to cycle off – the heat output stops immediately when I turn it off, unlike carbon fiber panels which remain hot. The tent fabric is insulated nylon with a silver coating inside. It’s not especially thick, but it does reflect heat well. One thing to mention: build quality of the tent is decent but not luxurious – it’s functional and durable enough (my unit has lasted years), but it’s not much different in appearance than a $200 sauna tent. You’re paying more for the high-performance heating elements. I’ve noticed some users online mention that the aesthetics and materials feel a bit cheap given the price; that’s a fair point, but the trade-off is the outstanding heating capability.
Safety and health-wise, the Relax Sauna is advertised as low-EMF, though independent tests show it does emit a bit of EMF directly around the heater units (mostly near your feet)
The levels drop off at torso height and I personally haven’t been concerned by it – I didn’t experience any adverse effects. I did not detect any chemical odors or off-gassing from the tent even when new; they seem to use a relatively inert fabric. As for reliability, the Relax has a good reputation. The heaters are a patented design and are quite robust. I’ve used mine extensively without issues. It’s essentially maintenance-free.
The convenience factor really shines if you plan to sauna frequently. Because it’s so quick to get going, I ended up using it more often – even daily – since there’s no lengthy prep. It’s also energy-efficient (about 1500W) and quiet (just a slight fan hum). The only real downsides: it’s one of the more expensive portables, around $1,500–$1,700 for a new unit, and as mentioned, you’re paying for function over form. Also, the company is smaller; while I haven’t needed customer support, I’ve read a few accounts of slow responses for warranty issues, so that might be worth noting.
Despite those minor negatives, the Relax Sauna has become my go-to because it makes it effortless to get a good sweat on. For anyone who wants a plug-and-play sauna solution that requires little space and virtually no setup each time, it’s hard to beat. It’s the closest thing to having an “on-demand” sauna in your home – just sit down, turn it on, and within minutes you’re reaping the benefits. That level of convenience means I’m consistently using it, which ultimately is the most important factor in wellness equipment.
Best for Outdoors: SweatTent Wood-Fired Sauna Tent
We gave the SweatTent Wood-Fired Sauna Tent a 4.10 because it gives a real sauna feel and gets hotter than most portable options. You do have to use firewood and set it up each time, but it’s great if you want a traditional experience.
SweatTent Wood-Fired Sauna Tent Specifications
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If your idea of a sauna includes sitting by a crackling wood stove and reaching blistering temperatures, the SweatTent Portable Outdoor Sauna is the way to go. I set up the SweatTent in my backyard, and it truly delivers a full Finnish-style sauna experience in a portable form. This sauna consists of a heavy-duty insulated tent (approximately 6′ × 6′ × 7′ when erected) and a stainless-steel wood-burning stove that fits inside
Assembly was quicker than I expected – with two people it took us about 20 minutes to stake out and raise the tent and install the chimney pipe. Once we loaded the stove with wood and lit it, the SweatTent lived up to its claims: in about 30 minutes the interior hit 200 °F (93 °C) and could likely go higher. In fact, I was able to get it so hot that I had to occasionally open the tent door to let in a little cool air when it topped 210 °F. This is a level of heat no electric portable sauna can reach, and it’s on par with traditional cedar sauna rooms. For an enthusiast, that intense heat and the ability to create steam by ladling water on the stove rocks (yes, you can add sauna stones on top) is priceless.
The build of the tent is rugged and clearly designed for outdoor conditions. It uses a weatherproof 210D Oxford fabric with insulation and a fiberglass roof panel
During use, the exterior remained secure and we felt no issues even when a breeze picked up – the tent is guy-lined and can be staked down firmly. It’s also roomy: rated for up to 4 people, though I found 3 is more comfortable if you have big folks. We placed simple wooden bench planks inside for seating (the sauna doesn’t include seating). Once heated, the experience is fantastic – it’s a real wood sauna, complete with the pleasant smell of the stove, the hiss of water creating burst of steam (löyly), and the soft glow of fire. We often used it at night; the warmth and ambiance were incredibly relaxing, and it became a social spot for friends to enjoy together.
Portability-wise, the SweatTent is heavy compared to indoor saunas. The tent and stove together weigh about 70–80 lbs in total
The tent itself is around 30 lbs and packs into a large duffel, and the stove is another ~40–50 lbs of steel. It’s not something you’d backpack with, but it’s certainly transportable in a car trunk if you wanted to take it to a cabin or campsite. I’ve even seen people bring it for car camping trips. Setup does require some effort (especially safely starting and tending a wood fire), so it’s not as instant as an electric sauna. However, the extra effort is part of the charm for outdoor use – it’s more ritualistic. One must also consider some safety precautions: you need a clear area outside for the chimney (which has a spark arrestor cap) and you should use it in a ventilated outdoor environment. Also, you have to let the stove cool down completely (which takes an hour or more) before packing up, so keep that in mind if you plan to move it after a session.
In my experience, the SweatTent has been durable. The materials seem high quality – after dozens of heat cycles, nothing has deteriorated. The stove is solid and puts out serious heat efficiently. It even comes with a fiberglass mat to protect the ground underneath from radiant heat. Using a wood-fired sauna tent is a bit more involved: you need to have dry firewood on hand, manage the fire for consistent heat, and be okay with some wood smoke in the air. But the reward is an authentic sauna that can be used anywhere outdoors. I found it absolutely perfect for winter evenings; we’d heat up in the SweatTent and then step out into the cold night air or even roll in the snow, then jump back in – a traditional contrast therapy that felt fantastic.
As for cost, at about $1,500 retail, the SweatTent is not cheap, but considering it’s a 4-person capacity sauna that rivals fixed installations costing much more, it’s a solid value. It’s also an “experiential” purchase – you’re paying for the unique ability to have a real sauna virtually anywhere. The only negatives I’d note are the obvious ones: it’s for outdoor use only (not everyone has suitable space or weather year-round), it’s less portable than indoor saunas in terms of weight, and using it requires more planning (firewood, cooldown time, etc.). Additionally, because it’s a tent, it lacks some aesthetics of a wooden sauna – but from outside it actually looks like a sleek black tent, and inside it definitely feels legitimate. For anyone serious about sauna culture who has a backyard or enjoys outdoor adventures, the SweatTent is a game-changer. It exceeded my expectations and has become a beloved part of gatherings – essentially turning my yard into a mini sauna retreat. Truly, it’s the most authentic sauna you can get without building a permanent structure, making it the best outdoor portable sauna option available.
Best for Indoors: Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket
The Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket got a 4.25 because it heats well, is low-EMF, and fits taller people. It’s a little bulkier than some other sauna blankets, but it still works well.
Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket Specifications
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For those who want a sauna-like detox without a tent or cabin, the Sun Home Saunas Infrared Sauna Blanket is an excellent choice. I tried this sauna blanket as a space-saving alternative, and it impressed me with how convenient and effective it is for a quick sweat session. The concept is simple: it’s a large heating blanket (resembling a sleeping bag) that wraps around your body and uses far-infrared heating elements to raise your core temperature. The Sun Home blanket can heat up to 167 °F (75 °C), which is on the higher end for these devices
I usually set it around 150–158 °F for a 45-minute session. Lying inside, I start sweating profusely after about 10 minutes, and by the end I feel like I’ve had an intensive sauna, all while lying flat on my yoga mat.
One thing I love about this blanket is the minimal setup required. I just roll it out on the bed or floor, slip inside, and use the handheld controller to adjust time and temperature. There’s no assembly, and it folds away neatly into its carry bag afterward – perfect for apartment living where a pop-up sauna tent might be too bulky. The Sun Home blanket’s material feels high-quality: it’s made of a soft polyurethane leather exterior and a waterproof interior that’s easy to wipe clean
The blanket also has Velcro along the sides rather than zippers, which gives some adjustability for different body sizes. I’m of average build and it closes around me well; a larger person (the interior circumference is about 65″) might have a slight gap, but Sun Home notes even people ~375 lbs have used it by not fully closing the Velcro around shoulders
In use, the blanket is quite comfortable. It weighs about 15 lbs, so you get a bit of a weighted blanket effect which I find calming
The heat is gentle at first and then ramps up; infrared heat directly against the body feels different from sitting in a sauna – it’s a bit more localized, but it does penetrate and raise core temp gradually. I often listen to a meditation or podcast while inside. You do need to stay hydrated and be prepared to sweat a lot; I line the inside with a towel or wear light clothing to absorb sweat (the blanket comes with an insert towel as well). Cleanup is easy: just wipe down the inside with an antibacterial wipe or vinegar solution and let it dry, which only takes a few minutes. There’s no issue with moisture buildup as long as you dry it after each use.
A notable benefit I experienced is that the sauna blanket seems to help with muscle recovery and sleep quality. Using it after a workout, I felt my muscles relax and I had less soreness the next day, similar to a traditional sauna effect. It also really puts me in a relaxed state before bed – on days I used the blanket in the evening, my sleep was deeper. Many other users report similar benefits, and the blanket is frequently praised for aiding in pain relief and stress reduction
Essentially, it delivers on the promise of sauna therapy in a convenient form.
There are a few limitations to keep in mind. Being a blanket, only one person can use it at a time (it’s strictly individual use). Also, unlike a sauna room, your head remains outside, so you won’t get that full head-clearing sweat. Some people might actually prefer that (no overheating the head), but it’s a different experience. If you’re very tall (over ~6’2″), your feet or shoulders might stick out a bit – I’m 5’11” and fit just right, but it could be snug for taller individuals
Another minor con: during the first few uses, I noticed a slight “new plastic” odor when it got hot. This is common with many blankets. It wasn’t overpowering, and by the fourth or fifth session it had fully off-gassed and no smell remained. The blanket is advertised as low-EMF, and I didn’t detect any issues on that front (and I’m pretty sensitive to such things). It has an auto shut-off at 60 minutes for safety, and the control is straightforward (though it displays temperature in Celsius only, a small quirk).
For the price – around $449 (often under $500) – the Sun Home sauna blanket offers an approachable entry into home saunas
It’s actually one of the more affordable blankets from a reputable brand and comes with a 1-year warranty. Many users, myself included, find it “hard to fault” – it’s well-constructed, delivers strong heat, and is extremely portable. The only feature it lacks compared to some competitors is multiple heating zones, but I didn’t find that to be an issue as the entire blanket heats uniformly. If you’re tight on space or want something you can even travel with, this blanket is ideal. I’ve even taken it on a road trip to the Golden Coast. It folds into a compact bag that I tossed in my trunk.
What Makes Portable Saunas Better Than Fully-Built Traditional Saunas?
If you’re deciding between a portable sauna and a traditional sauna, it comes down to space, budget, and convenience. Traditional saunas are permanent structures, requiring dedicated space and professional installation, making them a great long-term investment for those with the room and budget. They take longer to heat up and use more energy, but they provide a classic, full sauna experience. Portable saunas, on the other hand, are compact, easy to store, and much more affordable. They heat up faster, require minimal setup, and are perfect for apartments or small homes. If you want something low-maintenance that won’t take over your space, a portable sauna is the better choice.
If you’re still exploring whether a sauna is worth it, it’s best to start with a portable one. They offer the same basic benefits but at a fraction of the cost, making them a low-risk option before committing to a fully built sauna. If you find yourself using it often and want something permanent, then upgrading to a traditional sauna makes sense.
How Portable Saunas Work
Portable saunas use heat therapy to make you sweat, just like a traditional sauna, but in a smaller, more flexible setup. Depending on the type, they either use infrared heating elements or steam generators to warm your body and create a sauna-like experience at home.
Infrared Portable Saunas
Infrared saunas use far-infrared (FIR) light waves to heat your body directly instead of heating the air around you. These saunas usually come in the form of sauna tents, domes, or blankets. The infrared heat penetrates deep into your skin, increasing your body temperature and making you sweat without extreme external heat. This makes infrared saunas more energy-efficient and allows you to stay inside longer without feeling overwhelmed.
Steam Portable Saunas
Steam saunas work differently by boiling water in a steam generator and pumping it into an enclosed sauna tent. This creates hot, humid air, which raises the temperature inside. Unlike infrared models, steam saunas heat the air first, which then warms your body. These feel more like traditional steam rooms, making them a good option for those who enjoy intense sweating and high humidity.
References
Brunt, V. E., Howard, M. J., Francisco, M. A., Ely, B. R., & Minson, C. T. (2016). Passive heat therapy improves endothelial function, arterial stiffness, and blood pressure in sedentary humans. The Journal of Physiology, 594(18), 5329–5342.
Laukkanen, J. A., & Laukkanen, T. (2018). Sauna bathing and systemic inflammation. European Journal of Epidemiology, 33(3), 351–353.
Shepley, B. R., Ainslie, P. N., Hoiland, R. L., Donnelly, J., & Sekhon, M. S. (2021). Negligible influence of moderate to severe hyperthermia on blood-brain barrier permeability and neuronal parenchymal integrity in healthy men. Journal of Applied Physiology, 130(3), 759–769.
