Your friends at GGR have tested dozens of the best home saunas, cold plunges, and recovery products over the years. After all, we’re fitness professionals committed to helping you make the best investments in your health and wellness routine, because not everything you see on the internet is worth the hype.
That’s why our team of certified personal trainers, coaches, and athletes banded together to test the best portable saunas to see which ones offered the ultimate sauna experience and which were a flop.
In addition to our own testing, we spoke with GGR medical advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a quadruple board-certified physician, to get his expertise and insight on sauna use and optimal recovery practices.
To properly evaluate each portable sauna, we carefully followed our sauna testing methodology to help us calculate an unbiased review score for each product. Our testers are tasked to use, assess, and score each product based on eight different categories, including:
- Portability: How easy is the sauna to break down and transport? To earn a 3 out of 5, the portable sauna may take up a bit of space in use, but it can easily be broken down and stored for easier travel.
- Construction: What is the sauna constructed from? Are the closures, zippers, window, and seating options made from quality materials? For a 3 out of 5, there may be some noise when moving around inside, but it feels mostly sturdy.
- Performance: How long does the sauna take to heat up, and can it maintain that temperature throughout the session? For a 3 out of 5, a portable sauna can warm up in about 10-15 minutes but you may need to turn up the heat every now and again.
- Features: To earn 3 out of 5 stars, we want to see a built-in thermometer that makes it easy to see and adjust the temperature. Higher scores are given to those with upgrades such as Bluetooth speakers, wireless controls, lighting feature, and more.
- Value: This category assesses whether we feel a given sauna is worth the cost compared to others on the market. If the sauna is more expensive than others with similar features, it may receive a 3 out of 5, while higher scores are given to those with better features for the price.
In 2025, we helped 563 athletes and home gym owners find their ideal saunas, and we’re here to help you, too.
GGR Gold Pick – Best Portable Sauna
The Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna is our pick for the best portable sauna thanks to its easy-to-tote makeup, energy efficient carbon heaters, and infrared light therapy. It can also reach a maximum temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit, which is on the high end for portable saunas.
Best Portable Saunas
- Best Portable Infrared Sauna – Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna
- Best Portable Sauna Blanket – HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
- Best Portable Sauna Blanket – Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket
- Best Portable Sauna for Beginners – SereneLife Full Size Portable Sauna
- Best Portable Steam Sauna – SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro
- Best Budget Portable Sauna – Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna
Current Top Deals
- Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna – Up to $1,700 off
- HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket – Free shipping on orders $50+
Latest Updates
In March 2026, we reviewed our list of the best portable saunas and made a few changes based on our latest testing. The Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna still earns our top recommendation, but we swapped out picks that didn’t hold up in performance, features, or value. New additions—like the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket—stood out for their high scores in these categories.
Compare Side-By-Side
 |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Sunlighten Solo | HIgherDOSE Blanket | Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket | SereneLife Sauna | SaunaBox SmartSteam | Smartmak Sauna | |
Rating | ||||||
| Type | Indoor Infrared | Infrared Blanket | Indoor Electric | Indoor/Outdoor Steam | Indoor Infrared | |
| Footprint | 69″ L x 28″ W x 18″ H | 71” L x 71” W | 71” L x 63” W | 35” L x 35” W x 71” H | 35” L x 35” W x 74.4” H | 32″ L x 28″ W x 38″ H |
| Max Temp. | 150 F | 175 F | 140 F | 130 F | 140 F | |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person | 1 person | 1 person | 1 person | |
| Power Req. | 120V | 120V | 120V | 110V | 110V | |
| Warranty | Heaters: 7 years, fabric: 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | N/A | 2 years | Lifetime |
Best Portable Infrared Sauna: Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
The Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna is designed for movability and compact storage. It has multiple zone-based digital heaters and built-in chromotherapy features.
What our tester says:
“If you can fit, you’ll be fine, but it’s not the most inclusive sauna design.”
At a Glance
- Features far infrared technology
- Easy to break down and store
- Above-average temperature range
- More expensive than most portable saunas
The Sunlighten Solo Sauna is our top choice for the best portable infrared sauna. Not only does it offer a portable and telescoping design for solo sauna sessions, it also has energy efficient carbon heaters that can quickly heat the portable sauna up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
This is right at the top range of what most infrared saunas are capable of, and we give this portable sauna and impressive 4 out of 5 stars for its performance, as such.
Footprint: 4/5
Construction: 4/5
Performance: 4/5
Why We Like the Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, says the Sunlighten Solo Sauna maintains the max temperature as well as some of the traditional Finnish saunas and barrel saunas she’s tested. “It takes about 30 minutes to reach 150 degrees, but it stays there and the outside is not hot to the touch,” she notes.
RELATED: A Brief History of Saunas
In addition to its strong heat performance, we appreciate the easy setup and delivery process, which Lindsay gave 5 out of 5 stars.
“Setup is a breeze, and takes just 5 minutes to complete,” she explains. “Each component is lightweight enough to maneuver on your own, and everything comes in one box and is easy to unpack, too.”
Overall, if you’re looking for a one-person sauna, this can be a great choice, and we give it 4 out of 5 stars for value.
The dome-like structure can reach up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit in roughly 30 minutes, and I do like that the exterior remains cool to the touch as it reaches these temps.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC
Alternatives
Lindsay’s main callout is that the temperature controls are not intuitive. She also didn’t prefer that the foam padding and the dome each had its own separate control panel. That said, we only docked one point from this Sunlighten profile’s features rating, giving it 4 out of 5.
It’s also worth mentioning that Lindsay and other expert GGR testers liked the Sunlighten Solo Sauna, but don’t think it’s a good match for folks who have a larger than average frame.
“I don’t think heavy or larger people were considered for this sauna,” warns Lindsay. “If you can fit, you’ll be fine, but it’s not the most inclusive sauna design.”
It also doesn’t pack down into a bag like many of the pop-up saunas on this list. Rather, the dome telescopes and nests into itself, while the foam padding folds up. It’s certainly portable, but it does not come with a carrying case.
If you want something that’s easier to transport, we recommend the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket.
Testing Breakdown
The Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna received high scores across the board, leading to our “best overall” declaration in this roundup.
Vs. The Average
Even though this sauna costs more than the average portable sauna, it offers a higher temperature range and better warranty coverage.
| Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna | Average Portable Sauna | |
| Price | $3,349 | $1,107 |
| Dimensions | Dome: 69” L x 28” W x 18” H, SoloPad: 69” L x 23.6” W x 4” H | 36.4″ L x 33.25″ W x 70.9″ H |
| Temperature Range | Up to 150º F | Up to 140º F |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Product Weight | Dome: 46 lbs, SoloPad: 13 lbs | 31.12 lbs |
| Warranty | 7 years on heaters; 3 years on Solo and SoloPad controllers; 1 year on heater fabric and SoloPad memory foam | 3 years |
For more, be sure to read our in-depth Sunlighten Solo Sauna review.
Best Portable Sauna Blanket: HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
The HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket offers a portable and affordable alternative to installing a sauna in your home. The sauna blanket uses far infrared technology to provide heat stimulation to your entire body while you’re inside the sauna blanket.
What our tester says:
“If you love sauna sessions and need a more portable option I think this is great. I felt super relaxed and enjoyed using it.”
At a Glance
- Very lightweight and portable
- Excellent value for the price
- Above-average temperature range
- Below-average warranty
A sauna blanket is one of the most portable options when it comes to saunas, and HigherDOSE makes one of the best profiles we’ve examined. GGR expert tester Lindsay Scheele CPT, CNC gave it a perfect 5-out-of-5-star rating for its performance, which is the main reason we feel it’s the best blanket option on the market.
“It’s super easy to use, and it comes with a dial that lets you control what temperature you want the blanket to be,” she told me. “It also heats up in less than 10 minutes.”
RELATED: Infrared Sauna Buyer’s Guide
Footprint: 4.5/5
Construction: 3.5/5
Performance: 5/5
Why We Like the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
One of our favorite features on the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket is the painless setup process. Compared to traditional saunas (or even other portable options), the HigherDOSE blanket is very easy to get up and running; Lindsay gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars for the delivery and setup process.
“It came in a box without a lot of plastic, and all of the parts were organized and well-protected,” says Lindsay. “The directions were set right on top, and the instructions as well as the how to care documents were easy enough to follow.”
If you’re on the fence about using a sauna blanket, don’t be. Even though blankets are smaller than traditional saunas, they provide many of the same benefits, according to Dr. Raj Dasgupta.
“Sauna blankets use infrared heat to warm your body, causing you to sweat like in a regular sauna,” he explains. “They’re generally safe and easy to use if you follow the instructions.”
They’re also very easy to transport, which is one of the main reasons you’d probably want to consider a blanket over another portable pick. Lindsay gave this HigherDOSE profile 4.5 out of 5 stars for portability, noting, “I wouldn’t want to carry it around all day, but if you want to use it while on a weekend vacation or something, this could easily fit in your car.”
If you just love sauna sessions and need a more portable option, I think this is great. I felt relaxed and really enjoyed using it.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC
Alternatives
During our testing, Lindsay noted that blanket material felt like it may wear down over time with regular use, and gave it 3.5 out of 5 stars for construction. “I would make sure to buy the additional inserts,” she adds, “Because this seems the best way to keep the blanket from getting worn out by sweat, as there isn’t a way to wash it.”
We also gave it 3 out of 5 stars for value. It’s not bad price-wise, but the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket doesn’t have any flashy features or things to make it really stand out from other blankets aside from the strong heat performance.
If you want something compact that uses steam instead of infrared heat (and is easier to wash), we suggest the SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro.
Testing Breakdown
This portable sauna blanket received high marks in most of our testing categories, although we only gave it average scores for features and value.
Vs. The Average
This HigherDOSE sauna blanket is significantly more affordable than the average portable sauna yet offers a better temperature range. It’s lighter, too, but has a limited one-year warranty.
| HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket | Average Portable Sauna | |
| Price | $699 | $1,107 |
| Dimensions | 71” L x 71” W (unfolded) | 36.4″ L x 33.25″ W x 70.9″ H |
| Temperature Range | Up to 175º F | Up to 140º F |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Product Weight | 18 lbs | 31.12 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 3 years |
Read our full HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket review to learn more.
Best Portable Sauna for Travel: Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
At a Glance
- Sauna blanket that uses infrared heat
- Impressive durability and construction
- Below-average warranty
- Includes transportation bag
The Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket is an ultra-portable sauna option that won’t break the bank. Instead of emissive infrared light waves, this sauna blanket can conduct radiant heat to raise your body temperature from within. That may sound scary, but this sauna blanket is low EMF (low frequency electric and magnetic fields), as well.
We also appreciate the construction, which earned 5 out of 5 stars from expert product tester, Kate Gorman. This excellent durability is why we think it’s the best travel blanket, and Kate adds, “The materials in this blanket are very high-quality, with thick low VOC heat-resistant PU leather, carbon foils, EMF protection, and industrial-grade seams and zippers within the blanket.”
Footprint: 4/5
Construction: 5/5
Performance: 2/5
Why We Like the Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket
For those on the go, the compact footprint of the Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket makes this a great travel companion. We give it 4 out of 5 stars for portability, docking a point because it’s a little heavy, although Sun Home doesn’t disclose the exact weight.
“This blanket comes with a storage case, and can easily be folded up to fit inside,” Kate explains. “I wouldn’t say it’s the smallest bag to fit into places, though, and it is a bit on the heavier side; it wouldn’t be something you could bring absolutely everywhere.”
RELATED: Best Muscle Recovery Tools
While this sauna blanket doesn’t have all the creature comforts of a high-end sauna, we still give 3 out of 5 stars for features, too. “This blanket has the basic bells and whistles of a sauna blanket,” Kate says. “It has different temperature settings, but not in specific zones on the blanket, and there is an auto shut-off after 1 hour.”
This blanket is priced in the middle of the pack when it comes to sauna blankets. The materials are of good quality, and the blanket performs well.
Kate Gorman, GGR Expert Product Tester
Alternatives
Our biggest callout with this blanket is the heat performance, which only earns 2 out of 5 stars.
“This blanket won’t tell you the exact temp, just the level of temperature your blanket is at,”
Kate told me. “I also used our testing center’s thermal gun to see heat areas, and you can see that your shoulders and upper chest wouldn’t be directly under the coils. I think that it does heat up quickly, but not getting to see the temperature on the remote is why I am rating this so low.”
The Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket also comes with a one-year warranty for workmanship, which is a bit short when compared to the average portable sauna coverage plan of three years.
For a blanket that offers better heat performance, you may want to consider the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket.
Testing Breakdown
Even though the heat performance isn’t the best we’ve seen, we like most other features on this Sun Home sauna blanket and still give it a solid 4.2-star rating, overall.
Vs. The Average
This blanket is significantly more affordable than the average portable sauna, though the warranty is a bit limited.
| Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket | Average Portable Sauna | |
| Price | $499 | $1,107 |
| Dimensions | 71” L x 63” W | 36.4″ L x 33.25″ W x 70.9″ H |
| Temperature Range | Up to 167º F | Up to 140º F |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Product Weight | Not disclosed | 31.12 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 3 years |
To read more, check out our Sun Home Sauna Blanket review.
Best Portable Sauna for Beginners: SereneLife Full Size Portable Sauna
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
The SereneLife Compact Sit-In Sauna is a portable in-home sauna that can be assembled and then disassembled for compact storage. The sauna can reach a maximum temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The sauna features easy zipper access and a foldable chair for seated use. There are limited reviews but they are positive and found the sauna easy to set up.
What our tester says:
“The temperature that the foot pad provides is less than the overall temp of the sauna.”
At a Glance
- Easy to order from Amazon
- Excellent value at a low cost
- Average heat performance
- Basic additional features
The SereneLife Full Size Portable Sauna can be an excellent choice for sauna bathing beginners because it’s portable, easy to set up, and very affordable on Amazon at the time of writing. With a price tag just over $300, it’s very hard to find better value when looking at portable saunas. Accordingly, we give this one 4 out of 5 stars for the category.
Footprint: 4/5
Construction: 3/5
Performance: 4/5
Why We Like the SereneLife Full Size Portable Sauna
The main selling point here is the price. At the time of writing, it only costs around $310, though we’ve seen prices as low as $139.99. It’s not the fanciest sauna, sure, but if you’re new to saunas, the affordable price makes this a low-risk way to try them out.
We also think it works quite well for the price, and give the SereneLife Full Size Portable Sauna 4 out of 5 stars for the performance. “While the max temperature is listed at 140 degrees, we often found that conditions fluctuated between 125 and 135,” Lindsay notes. “That said, the temperature difference between my garage and the sauna itself likely played a major role in this. It’s been ranging from 125 to 135 degrees, and it has not held at 140 degrees for an entire 20-minute session since bringing it home.”
It’s not perfect, but at this price point, we don’t think there’s too much to complain about, and you’re still going to feel the warmth.
RELATED: Infrared Sauna Buyer’s Guide
We also appreciate the easy delivery and setup process, which earn 4 out of 5 stars. Lindsay notes that it’s a great choice for beginners, and states, “It’s a pretty intuitive design and took me roughly 10 minutes to assemble. Plus, I really appreciate the quick, convenient delivery process via Amazon.”
The SereneLife one-person sauna may be worth it for anyone yearning for a sauna at home but can’t fathom spending thousands of dollars on home sauna costs. It’s a sub-$250 portable sauna that operates like a pop-up tent, which could be beneficial for athletes needing a quick sauna solution for smaller spaces.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC
Alternatives
While this sauna is very affordable, the quality suffers a little bit, as a result “The material feels like a heated blanket from the outside,” Lindsay told me in reference to her 3-out-of-5 construction rating. “I don’t know how comfortable and sturdy this would be for someone who is taller and larger. Plus, the flimsier lawn chair can compromise your overall experience—it may be best to upgrade your seating with a camp chair or other seating arrangement.”
The SereneLife Full Size Portable Sauna is also fairly basic; it features a hard-wired remote control, but no other bells or whistles that you may see on other high-end options.
If you want a portable sauna that’s a bit more durable, we suggest the Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna, which earned 4 out of 5 stars for construction.
Testing Breakdown
This isn’t the highest-scoring sauna we’ve tested, but for beginners looking to try out a sauna on a budget, this can be a good choice for testing the waters.
Vs. The Average
The SereneLife Portable Sauna is plenty affordable when compared to the average portable sauna, providing great value for those seeking effective home recovery options.
| SereneLife Full Size Portable Sauna | Average Portable Sauna | |
| Price | $309.23 | $1,107 |
| Dimensions | 35.4” L x 35.4” W x 70.9” H | 36.4″ L x 33.25″ W x 70.9″ H |
| Temperature Range | Up to 140º F | Up to 140º F |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Product Weight | 29.8 lbs | 31.12 lbs |
| Warranty | Not disclosed | 3 years |
For more details, be sure to read our full SereneLife Portable Sauna review.
Best Portable Steam Sauna: SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
The SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro offers an easy and affordable wet sauna option for home recovery sessions. It’s compact, folds down effortlessly, and is suitable for one person at a time. The heat is sourced from the SmartSteam Unit, which pumps steam into the SaunaBox and can be set to seven different settings.
What our tester says:
“It should take you less than 10 minutes and about 10 minutes to disassemble and clean it thoroughly.”
At a Glance
- Affordable cost
- Above-average performance
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Below-average warranty
If you enjoy a steam room more than a traditional dry sauna, now is your chance to have your own home spa at the ready with the SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro. It’s a wet sauna in the form of a portable, pop-up tent that’s priced under $400, which helps it earn 5 out of 5 stars for value.
For those who prefer a dry sauna, infrared saunas can be a more appealing choice. For steam lovers, though, it’s hard to beat the SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro, especially if you need something compact and portable.
Footprint: 4/5
Construction: 4/5
Performance: 4/5
Why We Like the SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro
While a maximum temperature of 140 degree Fahrenheit doesn’t sound too hot for a sauna, it’ll have nearly 100% humidity, which can make the sauna experience feel a lot hotter. Additionally, a steamy sauna session may increase your heart rate and internal temperature1 more than a dry sauna. As such, Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC rates the heat performance at 4 out of 5. “The heat and humidity is intense,” she adds. “It’s good there is a window you can open or unzip the tent a little.”
RELATED: Steam Room vs Sauna
For portability, Lindsay docked a point and scored the SaunaBox at 4 stars. “It’s extremely easy to break down and set up, but there is a bit of a process because the sauna creates so much moisture,” she says.
If you don’t plan on moving this on a regular basis, this pop-up sauna can be a great choice for small spaces, too. You can break it down (once it’s dried out) and store it away to make the most of your floor plan between at-home sauna sessions.
It’s a one-person sauna, but the fact it can fit into, essentially, a small carrying bag is a huge plus. I really enjoy the lightweight frame that can be assembled anywhere.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC
Alternatives
One challenge with steam options (portable or not) is the sauna maintenance, as excess moisture build-up can lead to mildew and material degradation.
After every use, you’ll need to wipe the interior with a mild cleaner, air out the foot pad (which is machine-washable), and air out the entire sauna to lower the humidity. “You don’t want this to become a breeding ground for mold and germs by packing it away wet,” adds Lindsay.
That said, she scored the construction and durability at 4 out of 5 stars because it’s made from antimicrobial materials, it’s BPA-free, and is free from microplastics.
Lindsay also notes that the customer experience is decent, but not great, and gave it 3 out of 5 stars. “If you need to contact SaunaBox, there is a chat feature on the website, as well as a form to submit an inquiry,” she explains. “Overall, though, this doesn’t seem like the most helpful company in terms of customer service availability.”
If you’re not interested in a steam sauna, the Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna is another great choice that’s priced to fit nearly any budget.
Testing Breakdown
Even though it only provides an average customer experience, we rated this SaunaBox steam sauna highly in nearly every other category.
Vs. The Average
This sauna is significantly more affordable than the average portable sauna, making it a great choice for those who don’t mind using steam instead of dry heat.
| SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro | Average Portable Sauna | |
| Price | $349 | $1,107 |
| Dimensions | 35” L x 35” W x 74.4” H | 36.4″ L x 33.25″ W x 70.9″ H |
| Temperature Range | Up to 140º F | Up to 140º F |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Product Weight | Not disclosed | 31.12 lbs |
| Warranty | 2 years | 3 years |
For more details, check out our SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro review.
Best Budget Portable Sauna: Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
The Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna is an inexpensive and portable solution for an infrared sauna. Being compact, this sauna can be folded when not in use. Available in two sizes, this portable seated sauna tent may still be a tight fit for larger athletes.
What our tester says:
“This held my set temperature the entire time. Even when I had my arms out of the sauna, using the arm pockets, the temperature didn’t drop. ”
At a Glance
- Compact and portable infrared sauna
- Multiple colorways to choose from
- Priced to fit nearly any budget
- Doesn’t contain your entire body
The Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna can be ideal for folks on a budget. This small, lightweight, and portable sauna is priced under $200 on Amazon and comes in several different colorways.
The low cost doesn’t mean it’s cheap, however. The Smartmak sauna cuts down on costs with its petite design, which reduces materials, overall. As such, this sauna easily earns 5 out of 5 stars for value.
Footprint: 4/5
Construction: 5/5
Performance: 4/5
Why We Like the Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna
We give this portable, budget-friendly profile 5 out of 5 stars for its construction, which is an impressive score for a sauna at this price point. You’ll sit in the foldable chair and zip yourself in, but your neck, head, and hands will still be outside of the sauna through the respective openings.
“Honestly, it looks so goofy, but I kind of liked it,” explains expert tester Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC. “I was sitting in a ‘comfortable’ chair and was able to look at my phone thanks to the arm pockets, which made the time pass much more quickly.”
For heat performance, this Smartmak offering earns 4 out of 5 stars, as well. It took about 20 minutes for the sauna to reach its max temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. “This budget sauna heats up just as quickly as other traditional saunas I’ve tested,” notes Lindsay.
She also appreciates that the Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna was able to hold steady at 140 degrees during her sessions. Lindsay explains, “Even when I had my arms out of the sauna using the built-in arm pockets, the temperature didn’t drop.”
It’s an excellent sub-$200 sauna option, and I do appreciate the range of conveniences. However, some may prefer a sauna with a higher max temp, and I still believe the dimensions are less accommodating for larger athletes.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC
Alternatives
One issue with compact saunas is the size, and this one is particularly small. “This was comfortable for me, especially after trying some very uncomfortable wooden sauna seats,” Lindsay told me. “However, I’m only 5 feet, 4 inches and around 130 pounds; I could see someone bigger than myself feeling like the seat was too small.”
Lindsay also notes that the warranty coverage is a bit confusing. Smartmak’s website offers a lifetime warranty for consumer or home use, which is generous. That said, at the time of writing, this portable sauna isn’t listed on the company website, so we’re unsure if the warranty coverage still applies.
We love this sauna, but it’s small, nonetheless. For something with a bit more room, we recommend the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket.
Testing Breakdown
This portable sauna received high marks across the board, which is impressive to see for such a budget-friendly option.
Vs. The Average
The Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna offers similar features to most portable saunas, while costing significantly less. Just keep in mind that it’s not a full-body sauna and your arms and head will be exposed.
| Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna | Average Portable Sauna | |
| Price | $198.99 | $1,107 |
| Dimensions | 31.5″ L x 27.6″ W x 37.8″ H | 36.4″ L x 33.25″ W x 70.9″ H |
| Temperature Range | Up to 140 F | Up to 140 F |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Product Weight | 20.6 lbs | 31.12 lbs |
| Warranty | Lifetime for consumer or home use | 3 years |
You can learn more about this budget-friendly portable unit in our Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna review.
Other Portable Saunas We Tested and Researched
These days, there are plenty of portable saunas on the market. Here are a few others we considered for this comprehensive roundup that didn’t quite make the cut.
- Kutting Weight Hoodie V4: This Kutting Weight sweat suit was our top pick in our guide to the best sauna suits. We know it’s not an actual sauna, though, so we opted to not include it on this particular list.
- Sweat Tent Outdoor Sauna: This sauna tent’ design can be easy to break down and move, if needed, but we still feel it’s best for home use in your backyard; it wouldn’t be the best choice if you’re looking for something more travel-friendly.
- SaunaBox Go: This is another portable sauna tent that may work well for those who need to move it on occasion, but the slightly bigger footprint makes it harder to transport than the smaller SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro we included above.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Portable Saunas
To choose the best portable saunas on the market, we made sure to carefully use and test as many of the most popular options as we could get our hands on. Our expert testers spent plenty of time using each sauna, carefully assessing the performance, features, and more.
After thoroughly testing each sauna, we used our testing methodology to rate each one on a scale of 1 to 5, which helps us calculate an unbiased review score. Rather than simply relying on our own judgement, our methodology provides scoring guidelines for the following categories”
- Delivery and Setup: While portable saunas typically aren’t large enough to cause delivery issues, there’s still an initial setup process for most options. To earn 3 out of 5 stars for this category, curbside delivery is offered, and the sauna can be assembled in under 3 hours.
- Construction: This category is based on the materials and durability of a given sauna. For a 3 out of 5, the sauna is mostly sturdy, though there may be some creaking or other noises when taking a seat.
- Footprint and Portability: This is one of the most important categories for portable saunas, as most users are looking for something that’s easy to transport. To get a 3 out of 5, a portable sauna may take up a bit of space, but it can be broken down if needed to save space.
- Performance: This category is based on how well the sauna works, and is based on the temperature range, heating speed, heat retention, and more. For a 3 out of 5, the sauna heats up in a reasonable time, though you may need to make a few adjustments to maintain the correct temperature while using it.
- Features: In addition to a built-in thermometer, we look for upgrades like ventilation, Bluetooth speakers, LED lighting, timers, and more. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, the sauna may not include any special features, but it has the ability to read and adjust temperatures.
- Value: The average portable sauna costs $1,107, but prices can be significantly higher or lower depending on the specific model. Our value score is based on whether we feel the price is justified for what you’re getting compared to other options on the market. For a 3 out of 5 score, the sauna is comparable to others at a similar price point, but may not offer any additional features or upgrades.
- Customer Experience: This category looks at the purchasing process, including financing options, free shipping, warranties, and return policies, as well as the customer support offered by a sauna manufacturer. For a 3 out of 5, we should see free shipping options, a warranty around 3 years, and responsive customer support.
- Customer Reviews: This score is taken directly from real customer reviews. We look at as many sources as we can find, including the manufacturer’s website, as well as third-party retailers like Amazon.
Benefits of Portable Saunas
The benefit of owning a portable sauna is pretty obvious: Sauna sessions wherever you go. Portable saunas can also be more affordable than a traditional sauna cabin. However, some of the drawbacks with a portable option is the fact they’re usually smaller and sometimes only meant for one person at a time.
That said, here are some general benefits of regular sauna use, as well as reasons you may want to consider a portable sauna instead of a traditional sauna.
Sauna Bathing Can Improve Cardiovascular Health
Did you know sitting in a sauna can increase your heart rate? The hot climate naturally increases your heart rate2 like it would during medium- to high-intensity exercise. When your heart rate increases, the cardiac muscle tissues3 are stimulated to become stronger and more efficient at pumping blood throughout the entire body.
Additionally, one small study4 showed that sauna bathing can reduce blood pressure, which can reduce unnecessary strain on your heart. The study illustrated that heart rate and blood pressure rise during the sauna session, but drop below baseline after resting.
Sweat Can Help You Detox
Sweating from sauna use (or during intense physical activity) may promote detoxification, according to Dr. Michelle Koolaee.
“Saunas not only provide benefits like better blood flow and stress relief, but also can help you detox through increased sweating,” she explains. “This can make it easier to breathe, boosting your physical endurance, and may offer potential support for muscle recovery and growth, as well as positive effects on your cognitive function.”
Although more research is needed, there are some studies that indicate sweating5 may help the body detoxify from heavy metals like aluminum, cadmium, and lead.
Sauna Sessions Can Increase Circulation
Sauna bathing promotes blood flow and circulation6 by increasing your core temperature, which makes blood flow to your skin and muscles more efficiently while temporarily decreasing blood flow to your internal organs.
GGR Senior Staff Writer Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC, adds that saunas can be a great way to warm up your body before a workout.
“If you live in a cold climate or train in a cold gym, sitting in the sauna for a few minutes can be a great way to warm up your body,” Matt explains. “For those of us with achy joints that often feel stiff, this can really help you feel a bit more loose before you start training.”
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, GGR medical advisor, adds that saunas can also be used to promote relaxation and recovery after a workout, too. He notes, “Saunas are good for anyone wanting to relax, recover after workouts, or sweat out toxins.”
Portable Saunas Can Be Used Anywhere
If you don’t have the space or budget for a full-sized sauna in your home, we don’t blame you. Not to mention, if you travel frequently, you can’t exactly take a sauna with you.
On the other hand, something like a sauna blanket can be relatively easy to transport. If you enjoy a daily sauna session, it’s not difficult to bring a sauna blanket on your next work trip or vacation.
Dr. Dasgupta adds, “Sauna blankets usually come in one size that fits most people, but you can adjust the heat and time settings, and some even let you control different heat zones across your body.”
Even if you don’t travel, a portable sauna can take up far less space than a traditional sauna, making it a great choice for those living in smaller spaces who need something that’s easy to store between uses.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Portable Saunas
If you’re still not sure which sauna is the right fit for your needs, or you’re considering other options that aren’t on our list, here are the most important categories you should be thinking about when choosing a sauna:
Type of Sauna
With portable saunas, you’re probably not going to find one that uses traditional heating elements like wood-burning stoves or electric heaters. Instead, most portable saunas rely on infrared panels or steam therapy.
Infrared saunas use light panels to heat the body at lower temperatures. While they don’t get as hot as traditional saunas, the red light can help increase your body’s temperature from within.
Some portable saunas also use steam to raise the temperature. This modality can provide a higher temperature and moist air, which may benefit those struggling with dry skin. However, steam saunas also require more maintenance, given the higher humidity levels that can lead to mold and mildew without proper cleaning.
RELATED: How to Clean Saunas
Cost
While your budget is personal, it’s worth planning ahead to see how much you can spend. The average portable sauna costs roughly $1,107, but prices can be significantly higher or lower.
We recommend setting your budget ahead of time, which can help narrow down your choices and prevent you from making an expensive purchase you may end up regretting down the road.
Footprint
For portable saunas, you’ll want to think about where you’ll be using it the most, and whether or not regular transportation of your sauna is important to you.
If you plan to use your sauna solely at home, you might be able to get away with a larger footprint, or one that doesn’t break down very efficiently. For those who regularly travel, you may need to look for one that’s easier to deconstruct, or something extra compact like a sauna blanket.
FAQs About the Best Portable Saunas
Which portable sauna is best?
There are plenty of great options to choose from, so we suggest considering your budget, floor space, and whether you prefer infrared- or steam-sourced heat. Some of our favorite brands for portable saunas include HigherDOSE, Sunlighten, Sun Home, and SereneLife.
What is the most effective type of sauna?
When it comes to portable saunas, infrared is the most common type given its more packable capabilities. There are also tons of benefits of infrared saunas, including boosted heart health4, detoxification5, and increased blood flow6.
How long should you sit in a portable sauna?
In our guide on how to use a sauna, we took recommendations from the North American Saunas Society in regards to timing. The Society recommends sitting in the sauna until you start sweating, which can be around 8 to 10 minutes. Then, you’ll exit for a few minutes to rest, drink water, or shower. Finally, re-enter the sauna for another 8 to 10 minutes to begin a new circuit. You can do this cycle several times before your final rest.
References
- Pilch, W., Szygula, Z., Palka, T., Pilch, P., Cison, T., Wiecha, S., & Tota, L. (2014). Comparison of physiological reactions and physiological strain in healthy men under heat stress in dry and steam heat saunas. Biology of Sport, 31(2), 145–149. https://doi.org/10.5604/20831862.1099045
- Taggart, P., Parkinson, P., & Carruthers, M. (1972). Cardiac responses to thermal, physical, and emotional stress. Br Med J, 3(5818), 71-76.
- Ripa, R., George, T., Shumway, K. R., & Sattar, Y. (2023). Physiology, cardiac muscle. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.
- Ketelhut, S., & Ketelhut, R. G. (2019). The blood pressure and heart rate during sauna bath correspond to cardiac responses during submaximal dynamic exercise. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 44, 218-222.
- Genuis, S. J., Birkholz, D., Rodushkin, I., & Beesoon, S. (2011). Blood, urine, and sweat (BUS) study: monitoring and elimination of bioaccumulated toxic elements. Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 61(2), 344–357. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00244-010-9611-5
- Laukkanen, J. A., Laukkanen, T., & Kunutsor, S. K. (2018, August). Cardiovascular and other health benefits of sauna bathing: a review of the evidence. In Mayo clinic proceedings (Vol. 93, No. 8, pp. 1111-1121). Elsevier.
