Last updated: 18 October 2026. Prices use the Ofgem price cap for 1 October to 31 December 2026.
The short answer: yes, a heated jacket is worth it if you feel the cold, spend time outdoors (commuting, dog walks, football touchlines, gardening) or sit in a cold room and want to keep the heating down. A full charge of a typical USB power bank costs about 1p of electricity at the current UK price cap, and keeps you warm for roughly 3 to 8 hours depending on the heat setting. It is less worth it if you are mostly very active outdoors (you will overheat) or need a fully waterproof shell for heavy rain.
How does a heated jacket work?
A heated jacket is an insulated jacket with thin carbon-fibre heating panels sewn into the lining, usually across the back, chest and sometimes the collar and pockets. A small cable runs to a USB power bank in an inside pocket. You press a button on the front to switch it on and choose a heat level, typically three settings indicated by a coloured light (red for high, white for medium, blue for low).
The panels run at a safe low voltage (5V from the USB connection), so there is no mains electricity anywhere in the garment. The more heating zones a jacket has, the more evenly the warmth spreads: a basic jacket might have 3 to 5 zones, while our heated puffer jacket with 21 heating zones covers the back, chest, arms and pockets.
How much does it cost to run a heated jacket in the UK?
Almost nothing. A common 10,000mAh power bank stores about 37 watt-hours of energy. Recharging it from empty uses around 0.044kWh once you allow for charging losses. At the October to December 2026 price cap of 26.32p per kWh, that is roughly 1.2p per full charge.
| Way to keep warm | Typical power | Cost per hour (26.32p/kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| Heated jacket on a USB power bank | 5 to 10W | Under 0.3p |
| Electric blanket or heated throw | 60 to 100W | 1.6p to 2.6p |
| Small ceramic heater | 600W | 15.8p |
| Standard fan or oil heater | 2,000W | 52.6p |
The point is not that a jacket replaces your heating. It heats you rather than the air in the room, which is why it costs a tiny fraction of a heater. Want to compare your own numbers? Use our heating cost calculator.
How long does the battery last?
On a typical 10,000mAh power bank, expect roughly:
- High: about 3 to 4 hours
- Medium: about 5 to 6 hours
- Low: up to about 8 hours
These are rough guides. Real battery life depends on the number of heating zones, the power bank's capacity and how cold it is. A larger 20,000mAh power bank roughly doubles the time but adds weight. Some of our heated garments include a power bank and some do not, so check the "What's in the Box" section on each product page. Most people use high for the first ten minutes to warm up, then drop to low or medium.
Who is a heated jacket worth it for?
- People who feel the cold, including older relatives who would rather not run the heating all day.
- Commuters and dog walkers who spend 30 to 90 minutes outside in damp, windy British weather.
- Parents on the touchline at Saturday football or standing at the school gate.
- Outdoor workers and tradespeople on cold sites, especially in the early morning.
- Home workers who want to keep the thermostat lower. A lightweight heated gilet under a jumper works well indoors.
- Anglers, walkers and stadium-goers who sit or stand still for long periods.
When is a heated jacket not worth it?
- High-intensity exercise. Running or fast hill walking makes you warm enough; a heated layer will make you sweat.
- Heavy, sustained rain. Most heated jackets are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. Wear a waterproof shell over the top in a downpour.
- If you will not charge it. Without a charged power bank it is just an ordinary padded jacket, so build charging into your routine.
Heated jacket, heated gilet or heated hoodie: which should you choose?
| Type | Best for | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Heated puffer jacket | Outdoors in the coldest weather; one layer that does it all | Men's heated puffer jacket with hood |
| Heated gilet | Layering under a coat or jumper; indoors and outdoors; free arm movement | Men's heated gilet with 9 zones, women's heated quilted gilet |
| Heated hoodie | Casual wear, working from home, relaxing on the sofa | Women's heated zip hoodie |
| Heated base layer | Under everything: skiing, winter walks, cold offices | Heated thermal underwear set |
Cold hands and feet are often the real problem. If that is you, rechargeable heated gloves or heated insoles may make more difference than a jacket.
Are heated jackets safe?
Heated clothing that runs from a USB power bank works at 5 volts, the same as charging a phone, so there is no risk of mains electric shock. Sensible precautions:
- Use a reputable power bank and the cable supplied.
- Switch the heat off or to low if you start to feel too hot.
- Do not use the heating while asleep, and take extra care with anyone who cannot easily feel heat or adjust the setting themselves.
- Do not sit on the power bank or bend the cable sharply.
Can you wash a heated jacket?
Usually yes. Remove the power bank, tuck the cable back into its pocket, and hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cold cycle in a laundry bag. Do not tumble dry or iron over the heating panels, and let it dry fully before connecting the battery again. Always follow the care label on your specific jacket.
What to look for when buying a heated jacket
- Number and placement of heating zones: back and chest at minimum; collar and pocket zones are a bonus.
- Heat settings: three levels is standard and enough for UK winters.
- Power source: standard USB means you can use any decent power bank and replace it easily.
- Fit: the panels need to sit close to your body to feel warm, so do not size up too far. Check the size guide.
- Outer fabric: water-resistant and windproof for British weather.
- Returns: buy from a UK seller with a clear returns policy. We offer free delivery and 30-day returns.
Frequently asked questions
How much electricity does a heated jacket use?
Around 5 to 10 watts while heating. A full charge of a 10,000mAh power bank costs about 1.2p at the October to December 2026 UK price cap.
Can I wear a heated jacket indoors?
Yes. Many people wear a heated gilet or hoodie at home on the low setting so they can keep the central heating lower.
Do heated jackets work in the rain?
Most are water-resistant and handle showers and drizzle. In heavy rain, wear a waterproof layer over the top and keep the power bank in its inside pocket.
Can I take a heated jacket on a plane?
The jacket itself is fine. Power banks must go in your hand luggage, not in the hold, and airlines set limits on battery size, so check with your airline before you fly.
Are heated jackets worth it for older people?
They can be a practical way for someone who feels the cold to stay comfortable without heating the whole house. Choose a simple one-button jacket or gilet and set it up for them so it is easy to use.
Browse all our heated clothing and heated accessories, with free delivery and 30-day returns.