Camping is one of the best ways to explore and connect with nature. However, when the sun goes down, the darkness can be intimidating and even dangerous. That’s why a good camping lantern is an essential item to have with you on your next trip. Lanterns are great for illuminating an area for a larger group. Whether car-camping, grilling in the backyard, or lighting up a room when the power goes out, lanterns tend to make for much better-centralized light sources than headlamps. They typically provide a wide, 360-degree shine radius, allowing many people to benefit from them at the same time.
Types of Camping Lanterns
There are several types of camping lanterns, each with its advantages and drawbacks. Understanding their features and capabilities will help you choose the best option for your specific needs.
Electric Lanterns
Electric lanterns use batteries or rechargeable power sources to illuminate the camping area. They are lightweight, durable, and easy to use. They often offer different light settings, such as high and low brightness, and can be a great option for camping trips where you have access to power sources. Electric lanterns have taken over as the most popular type of lantern for camping. These camping lanterns include solar lanterns, LED lanterns, battery-operated lanterns, rechargeable lanterns, and more. They are child-friendly and safe to use inside of your tent.
Fuel-Powered Lanterns
These lanterns burn fuel, such as propane or kerosene, to produce light. Gas-powered lanterns are best when weight is not a concern and more light is needed. Gas lanterns come in two varieties: liquid fuel and propane. Liquid fuel, or white gas, is the same fuel used in many cooking stoves, and propane lanterns use the same canisters as many backpacking stoves. Liquid fuel lanterns are the absolute brightest lanterns out there, but also the heaviest and most expensive. Propane lanterns are a step down from liquid fuel in terms of brightness, but they also usually cost and weigh less.
Candle Lanterns
These use one or more candles to provide soft, natural light. Optionally, reflectors can be used to maximize the relatively minimal glow. Candle lanterns are known to produce a soft, romantic, relaxing light. However, they are considered an outdated source of light power. They generate heat and can be hot to touch, so they must be kept a safe distance from flammable materials like tent fabric.
Solar-Powered Lanterns
Eco-friendly and energy-efficient, solar-powered lanterns harness the sun’s energy during the day to provide light at night. They’re ideal for those who want to minimize their environmental impact, but they can be unreliable in areas with limited sunlight. One thing to note about any solar charging lantern is that solar panels have specific condition requirements for charging. The best way to charge your panel is with continuous, uninterrupted sunlight.
Hand-Cranked Lanterns
These lanterns generate power through manual cranking, making them a reliable option in emergencies or when other power sources are unavailable. They are less common but can be a lifesaver in prolonged power outages or remote locations.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Camping Lantern
When choosing a camping lantern, you should consider its brightness, battery life, size and weight, durability, ease of use, and price. These factors will help you find the best camping lantern for your needs.
Brightness (Lumens)
The brightness of a camping lantern is measured in lumens. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light. Consider getting a lantern with at least 500 lumens for camping trips, but 1000 lumens or more is recommended for larger groups or larger camping areas. For just poking around camp at night, 100 lumens is sufficient. If you’re only using your lantern to create ambiance or look at things close-up, you can get away with 100 lumens or fewer.
Battery Life and Power Source
Battery life and rechargeability play a vital role in the functionality of a camping lantern. Ensuring a reliable battery life is essential for uninterrupted illumination during extended periods, particularly in nocturnal settings. Rechargeable lanterns present cost-effective alternatives by eliminating the need for disposable batteries and align with sustainability goals by reducing environmental waste. Some lanterns run on propane or isobutane canisters instead of batteries or solar power, offering bright light without requiring electricity.
Size and Weight
The considerations of size and portability are fundamental when evaluating camping lanterns, as they directly impact the ease of transportation and storage. For car-camping excursions, size and weight generally are not concerns. For backpacking, however, they are. Smaller lamps are perfect for backpackers, since they will have a low output and weigh only a few ounces. If you know you are going to be using your lantern in camp or around the house, heavier can be better.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Almost as important as performance is a light’s longevity. One that can withstand adventures and sticky fingers alike is one worth investing in. Weather/water resistance is a critical contributing factor to a lantern’s durability. If you are camping in an area with high humidity or near a water source, it is highly recommended to get a waterproof camping lantern. Look for lanterns with an IPX4 rating or higher for water resistance.
Ease of Use
Fumbling with buttons and hooks is a bummer when you need illumination in a hurry. We recommend models that can be easily hung overhead. Hooks like those on the Black Diamond products that can be placed over a branch or through a tent loop are ideal. When camping, perfectly smooth and level surfaces can be hard to come by unless you have a picnic table at your site.
Additional Features
- Color-Changing Modes: Some camping lanterns come with color-changing features, allowing you to switch between white light and colored light. Use soft, warm colors like orange and yellow to create a cozy, fire-like glow.
- USB Charging Ports: Many lanterns function as power banks, allowing you to charge other devices like phones or cameras.
- Dimming Capabilities: Adjustable brightness settings help conserve battery life and create the desired ambiance.
- Hanging Options: Look for lanterns with hooks or handles for hands-free lighting.
Top Camping Lantern Recommendations
Here are some of the best camping lanterns on the market, each excelling in specific scenarios.
Goal Zero Lighthouse 600
A top scorer in every metric that matters, the Lighthouse 600 has specs that belie its compact dimensions. It’s roughly the size of a coffee mug when its collapsible legs are folded, yet it emits a whopping 600 lumens. It’s bright, easy to use, has a backup hand crank, and also has a USB outlet for charging other devices. This model may be high-end, but it is certainly worth the investment. Shop on Amazon
Ultimate Survival Technologies 30-Day Duro
The Ultimate Survival Technologies 30-Day Duro is ridiculously bright at its highest setting, producing 1000 lumens. While the manufacturer advertises 30 days of power, the lantern we tested ran for 33 days. Even on its brightest setting, it lasted nine hours – one of the best models in our assessment. It has a sturdy, heavy, rubberized, impact-resistant base. Shop on Amazon
BioLite AlpenGlow 500
BioLite didn’t miss when they brewed up the AlpenGlow 500 Lantern, a light that’s as versatile in the backcountry as it is for car camping. It offers regular cool or warm white light for bright illumination and colorful mood lighting settings, including single color, multicolor, candle flicker, and blended modes that replicate sunrise and sunset. Shop on Amazon
Black Diamond Moji R+
Weighing in at just three ounces and fitting easily in the palm of your hand, the Black Diamond Moji R+ is the ultimate compact choice for campers concerned about saving space. It emits up to 200 lumens of bright white light and is easily sufficient for illuminating your tent or camp table. Shop on Amazon
Coleman Northstar
This lantern can run off the classic green Coleman propane canisters like their stoves. The major downside to propane canisters like this is that they are often single-use and difficult to refill or recycle. The lantern is very functional and is the brightest option on our list (1540 lumens when on high). Shop on Amazon
Comparison Table of Top Camping Lanterns
| Model | Lumens | Power Source | Weight | Battery Life | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 | 600 | Rechargeable, Hand-Crank | 1 lb. 1.6 oz. | Up to 320 hrs (low) | Car Camping, Emergencies |
| UST 30-Day Duro | 1000 | 4 D Batteries | 1.9 lbs. | Up to 33 days (low) | Car Camping, Large Groups |
| BioLite AlpenGlow 500 | 500 | Rechargeable | 13.5 oz. | Up to 200 hrs (low) | Car Camping, Ambiance |
| Black Diamond Moji R+ | 200 | Rechargeable | 3 oz. | Up to 70 hrs (low) | Backpacking, Tent Use |
| Coleman Northstar | 1540 | Propane | 6.5 lbs. | Up to 9 hrs (low) | Car Camping, RVing |
Tips for Using Your Camping Lantern Effectively
- Cooking and Dining: Place a bright lantern in the center of your cooking area to ensure you can see what you’re doing, whether you’re chopping vegetables or grilling burgers. A medium-brightness lantern can be placed on your picnic table to provide enough light for meals.
- Wildlife Deterrence: Bright lights can help deter curious wildlife from wandering too close to your campsite. Position a lantern on the perimeter of your camp to create a buffer zone.
- Emergency Preparedness: In emergency situations, having a reliable lantern is crucial. Always carry an extra lantern or set of batteries just in case.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Rechargeable and solar-powered lanterns reduce waste by eliminating the need for disposable batteries. These options are not only better for the environment but can also save you money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many lumens do I need for a camping lantern?
For general camping tasks like cooking or illuminating a small campsite, 100-200 lumens is sufficient. For larger groups or bigger areas, opt for 500-1000 lumens or more.
Are gas-powered lanterns safe to use?
Gas-powered lanterns are safe when used in well-ventilated areas and kept away from flammable materials. Never use them inside tents or enclosed spaces due to the risk of fire and carbon monoxide buildup.
Can I use a camping lantern for backpacking?
Yes, but choose a lightweight, compact model like the Black Diamond Moji R+ or BioLite AlpenGlow Mini, which are designed for portability without sacrificing brightness.
How do I maintain my camping lantern?
Regularly check and replace batteries, clean the lantern’s exterior, and store it in a dry place. For gas lanterns, ensure mantles are intact and carry spares. For solar lanterns, keep the panels clean for optimal charging.
What’s the best lantern for power outages?
Lanterns with long battery life, like the Ultimate Survival Technologies 30-Day Duro, or those with alternative power sources, like the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 with its hand-crank feature, are ideal for power outages.
Conclusion
A camping lantern can be a game-changing tool for any outdoor adventure. With so many types and features to choose from, it’s important to assess your specific needs¡ªwhether you’re car camping, backpacking, or preparing for emergencies. By considering factors like brightness, battery life, size, and durability, you can find the perfect lantern to light up your campsite and enhance your outdoor experience. For more camping gear recommendations, check out REI’s Expert Advice or Outdoor Gear Lab’s Lantern Reviews.