Best Camping Flashlights, Lanterns, and Headlamps
One of the benefits of working at Battery Junction is getting to test some of the best headlamps, lanterns, and flashlights that are currently being offered. Our avid campers take to the woods and get the chance to see what makes these lights the best for camping. We found that the best camping lights are compact, run on your everyday AA or AAA batteries, are weatherproof, and feature multiple lighting modes.
Streamlight Siege AA Yellow Floating Lantern
Our top pick for the ultimate camping light is the Streamlight Siege AA Yellow Floating Lantern. Running on only 3 x AA batteries this lantern can run for several days and features a red light output that will preserve your night vision. The Streamlight Siege AA lantern offers a slightly shorter runtime than the UST 30 Day LED lantern, but offers better weatherproof and drop test ratings. It is built to be more durable while costing less money than the UST light. A close runner-up for best camping light, after testing several different lights, is the Nitecore LA10. It is extremely compact so it will not weigh down your bags while still providing you with bright light outputs.
The products below are the headlamps, lanterns, and everyday carry lights that fits the needs of most campers. They are the lights you can easily travel with, can withstand almost all types of weather conditions, and are the most functional outside.
Camping Lights, Headlamps, and Lanterns
For All Types of Camping
Different types of camping will require different types of camping lights. As outdoor enthusiasts, we at Battery Junction like to be prepared for our adventures. We understand that different types of camping will require different types of light. For example tent camping while you are making a 7-day hike through mountain trails will be a little more demanding than kicking it back in a camper at your local state park. For long distance camping the UST 30-Day Duro lantern will be your best friend. It is weather resistant and provides light for roughly 30 days. The downside of carrying this lantern is it is not collapsible but it is lightweight enough that you can attach it to the side of your bag with a carabiner. If you are just having an overnight trip or you are staying at a campground, then you should be able to get away with an everyday carry hand-held lights. A perfect example is the JETBeam Jet-II. It is extremely compact and reasonably priced making it the perfect little camping light.
Common Activities You Need a Light For!
No matter the type of camping you are taking a part in there will always be a time you will need to have a flashlight. When you are sitting around a campfire making S'mores you will need to have extra light to see the ingredients. If you want to take a stroll down to the lake for a midnight swim you will need a light to find your way down the trail. Or if you need to walk from your tent to the park bathroom. No matter where you are camping or, how you are camping, there will always be a need for a camping flashlight, lantern, or headlamp.