Portable Saunas

Advantages & Disadvantages

With a personal portable sauna, you can enjoy the health benefits of sauna at home, on vacation, and even at the office (if that's an option for you).

Before I talk about some pros and cons...

There are two kinds of "portable" saunas on the market.

The first kind is known as a modular or pre-built sauna.

It has the size of a traditional sauna, but it's portable because it's easy to assemble and take apart and doesn't require any permanent connections.

(You can read more about modular saunas here)

The second kind – which is what I'll talk about below, is a smaller and more compact mini "sauna".

These mini saunas are available in many different styles. You can even choose between a portable infrared sauna and a portable steam sauna.

Let’s look at some advantages and disadvantages of portable models compared to full size saunas.

Advantages

They’re convenient and easy to use. Set-up is pretty simple. No tools are required and a standard outlet is all you'll need for power.

They're compact. Portable saunas are easy to store because they take up minimal space. Certain models are even foldable and can easily be stored in a corner or closet.

They’re lightweight, and umm… portable.
Portable units usually weigh between 10 and 65 pounds. This makes it easy to move around or take with you on the go.

They're cheaper. The majority cost a fraction of what full size saunas cost.

You don't have to breathe hot air. With most portable units you sit or lie (depending on the model) with your head remaining outside. This is a benefit if breathing in hot air is uncomfortable for you. There are models that include an optional head cover also.

Quicker heating time. Heat up time is about 5 minutes. Full size saunas can take anywhere from 2 to 5 times longer.


Disadvantages

Two possible disadvantages come to my mind…

Some people really enjoy the intense heat within the enclosure of a traditional sauna. If you’re one of these people, a portable mini sauna may not feel like a 'real sauna'.

The heat build-up won't compare to regular saunas.

Another possible disadvantage is that the smaller structure may cause some people to feel a bit claustrophobic.

Compact saunas can't quite offer the experience of full size saunas, but...

If your main concern is to receive the health benefits of sauna, then a personal portable sauna is a great option - especially if you want to save space and money.



Read about folding saunas here