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It's a small purchase, but it's important to get it right. What seems like a simple decision when you are doing your online shopping, can grow in importance when you are actually out there, on your campsite. So, of all the flashlights out there, which will give you the best camping experience?
We will show you how to pick the perfect one, whether you're shopping for a trek across the Rockies, or just need something for a weekend in the Catskills.
Keep reading to see our comprehensive review of the best flashlights out there. We think it's so good it will make your face light up!
How We Uncover The Best For You
We know how easy it is to lose track of time, you end up racing the sun to get back to camp and end up cooking in the dark. So don't forget the flashlight! The question is, which camping flashlight is best for the job? It is difficult to choose when there are so many options!
Don't worry you won't have to read reviews until you are light-headed, we've done that for you!
We pride ourselves on the quality of our reviews. Drawing on our experience and reading through thousands of reviews, we put together the best list of products possible for your budget, no matter what you're looking for.
Best Flashlight for Exploring
We Chose This Because
- Bright Light
- Durable
- Functional
Things We Love
Introducing the Anker Ultra Bright Flashlight. This is the perfect flashlight for anyone who loves exploring the great outdoors, or even just their own backyard!
With a light output of 1300 lumens, it is bright enough to light up your path for 1200 ft ahead of you, so you'll never run into any unexpected surprises in the dark.
It is light and compact, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.
And because it's from Anker, you know it's a quality product that will last you for years to come.
Things To Know
This flashlight is perfect for anyone who needs a durable and reliable light source. It is made from aluminum for durability and is water-resistant so it's perfect if you get caught in the rain.
It is also a USB rechargeable flashlight, so you can top it up with any USB power bank. The flashlight has a 6-hour battery life on the highest setting but will last significantly longer on lower settings.
With its FIVE different modes (including SOS mode), this flashlight is sure to meet your needs no matter what situation you find yourself in.
So don't be left in the dark - add an Anker Ultra Bright Flashlight to your camping essentials.
Best Flashlight for Backpackers
We Chose This Because
- Lightweight
- Easy to Carry
- Efficient Lighting
Things We Love
Looking for a flashlight that won't weigh you down on long hikes? Look no further than the Streamlight ProTac 750! This super lightweight flashlight has been a favorite of campers for 10 years, and it's easy to see why.
With its bright light and compact size, it is perfect for any camping trip. At just 0.3 pounds, it's so light that you'll barely even notice it's there. Which makes it the perfect flashlight for hiking.
This flashlight is 5.25 inches long and 1.45 inches wide, making it easy to slip into your backpack or pocket.
It also features a removable pocket clip, so you can easily attach it to your belt or shoulder strap.
Things To Know
The Streamlight ProTac 750 is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and long-lasting flashlight.
The torch runs on two CR123A lithium batteries, which provide up to 18 hours of run time. So no matter how lost you get on your hike, with its long battery life this LED flashlight will light your way home!
Plus, the powerful 750-lumen LED bulb can easily illuminate the darkest of trails - it's bright enough to light up your campsite or find your way when hiking in the dark.
So don't let the darkness keep you from enjoying your next camping trip - pick up a Streamlight ProTac 750 flashlight today!
Best Flashlight for Adrenaline Junkies
We Chose This Because
- Tough and Durable
- User Friendly
- Ergonomic Design
Things We Love
SureFire's G2X Flashlight with its tough build and virtually indestructible LEDs make it ideal for any outdoor activity, from white water rafting in Niagara Falls to abseiling through the Rio Grande Valley. It is a top-of-the-line light, designed for optimal performance in any situation. A key feature of this light is its virtually indestructible shock-resistant LEDs.
The tough Nitrolon polymer body is smoothly sculpted for a comfortable, secure grip and resists scratches, abrasion, and corrosion.
Things To Know
The precision reflector creates a smooth, optimized beam with plenty of surround light, making it ideal for use in low-light conditions.
Plus, it's incredibly simple to operate, so you'll be able to use it in even the most high-stress situations. It really is one of the best camping flashlights for emergency situations. So don't be caught in the dark without the SureFire G2X Flashlight.
This makes the G2X Tactical flashlight the perfect choice for anyone who needs a reliable, high-performance light for any adventures in the great outdoors.
Best Flashlights for Family Campers
We Chose This Because
- 2 pack
- Powerful lighting
- Great Value
Things We Love
The Hausbell T6 Flashlight is a versatile and powerful light that comes in packs of two which makes it the perfect solution for those big family camping trips. Give one to every kid (they are really light and durable) and make sure there are spares in the car too!
If you are anything like me, you need light to read at night. Nothing beats a book after a busy day outdoors. And with the right flashlight is it quite feasible to end your day engrossed in a book.
And while we are discussing story-time, don't forget the fun that can be had with something as simple as a flashlight. Do you remember making shadow puppets as a kid? Well. It's even better to use the tent as your screen while you act out little puppet shows to entertain the kids at bedtime. It's these little things that make a camping vacation perfect.
Things To Know
The flashlight has three manually zoomable lighting modes, so you can adjust the beam to your needs. Additionally, the light is constructed from durable materials and is designed for long-term use.
You can choose to use either 18650 batteries for brighter light, or 3 aaa batteries for longer life.
And as a bonus, the flashlight is a great option for late-night dog walks when you're home too. So whether you're looking for bright light for camping trips or a reliable backup for your home, the Hausbell T6 Flashlight is one of the best camping flashlights for family campers. Great value and bright enough for even the darkest night away camping.
Our Bonus Eco-Friendly Option
XREXS Solar Powered LED Car Flashlight
A Cracking Choice for Eco-conscious Campers
Being environmentally friendly is really important to us, as it is for many campers. Although the camping flashlights we have featured are all LED's and are therefore environmentally friendly, we thought as a bonus we would give you an extra option showcasing a flashlight that has gone above and beyond for the eco-friendly cause.
We Chose This Because
- Eco-conscious Features
- Efficient Lighting
- Recycled Material
Things We Love
The XREXS flashlight is a great choice for those looking for an eco-friendly and sustainable option. Made from recycled materials, it is both durable and reliable. The solar panel allows you to recharge the battery life sustainably, making it a great choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint. The LED is highly efficient, lighting the way while using very little energy. This makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Things To Know
The battery life is not only charged up by solar panels it can also be charged using a USB port on the back of the flashlight. At 380 lumens it's more than bright enough too. Whether you are camping, hiking, or simply need a reliable flashlight for emergencies, the XREXS is a great eco-friendly option for you to consider.
The Best Camping Flashlight For You?
Buyers Guide: When looking for camping flashlights, you need to consider the features that are most important to you.
There are so many things to bear in mind: Do you need something rechargeable? Do you need long battery life, multiple light modes, and a shock-resistant LED flashlight, or is it just a really bright light you're after? Here are some tips to help you choose the best one for your needs:
Brightness
How bright do you need your flashlight to be? The first thing to consider when choosing a flashlight is brightness. If you're using the flashlight for general purposes around camp, a lower-lumen light should suffice. However, if you're planning on doing any night hiking or other activities where you'll need more light, opt for a brighter flashlight. If you're looking for a flashlight to use in an emergency situation, you'll want something much brighter.
Beam distance
This is how far the light from your flashlight will travel. How far does the light need to reach? If you're just using the flashlight around camp, distance isn't as much of a concern, a shorter beam distance is fine. But if you plan on doing any night hiking or other activities where you need to see far ahead of you, you'll want a flashlight with a longer beam distance.
Beam type
What kind of beam is most useful for your needs? (Floodlight, spotlight, etc.) Consider also beam width. Sometimes brightness or beam length is worth sacrificing for a flashlight that lights up a wider area.
Battery life
When choosing a flashlight for use when camping, pay attention to the battery life. Some flashlights will only last for a few hours on a single charge, while others can last for days. Choose a flashlight that will meet your needs in terms of battery life.
Size and Weight
How portable does the flashlight need to be? If you're backpacking, weight is an important consideration. Choose a lightweight flashlight that won't add too much weight to your pack.
Durability
A flashlight for use when camping should be durable enough to withstand being dropped or knocked around. Look for a flashlight that is made from tough materials such as aluminum or stainless steel. You don't want it to break when you're using it.
Water resistance
Is water resistance important to you? If you're planning on using your flashlight near water or in camping in wet weather in your tent, make sure it is water-resistant. Otherwise, it could malfunction if it gets wet.
Price
These flashlights can range in price. Choose the flashlight that fits your budget and meets your needs.
Additional features
Does the flashlight need to have any additional features, such as a built-in compass or USB charging?
Best Flashlights for Use When Camping - Your Questions Answered
Your Answers Are Just A Short Distance Away, Keep Reading!
You're considering buying a flashlight, but you don't know what to look for. Yes, it needs to create light, but what else is important?
It can be tough to figure out which is the best for your needs. Are you planning a backpacking trip, an adrenaline-fueled adventure, or do you simply want to make sure your family is safe and happy?
We've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about camping flashlights to help you make a cracking choice and snag a great flashlight, just in time for your next camping trip.
How Many Lumens Is Good For A Flashlight For Camping?
As a general rule-of-thumb, you will want a flashlight with at least 100 lumens for basic camping tasks like finding your way around the campsite after dark. This is also helpful to not wake other campers if you're looking for something inside your tent after dark.
If you're planning on doing more visual activities like reading or playing card games in your tent, then you may want a brighter flashlight with 200-300 lumens. And if you're considering exploring or doing any night photography, then you'll need an even brighter flashlight that produces 500 lumens or more.
Is A Water-resistant Flashlight Necessary For Camping?
It depends on the environment you'll be camping in. A water-resistant flashlight is ideal for camping trips that involve activities near bodies of water, as it will help keep the light safe from moisture damage.
If you are stranded in the wilderness and your regular flashlight gets wet, then having a water-resistant flashlight will allow you to continue to have light since other flashlights will fail on you.
However, if you are camping in a desert environment, then a water-resistant flashlight is not necessary because there's no risk of it getting wet.
So overall, I would say that a water-resistant flashlight is definitely necessary for camping, and it could even save your life in an emergency situation.
What Does It Mean If My Flashlight Is Flickering?
Your flashlight may be flickering for a variety of reasons. It could be due to a loose connection somewhere in the circuitry, or a problem with one of the batteries.
Alternatively, it could be that the filament inside the bulb is coming loose. You may want to check for dust or particles in the battery compartment, especially if you have been adventuring in a rugged environment.
If you notice your flashlight is beginning to flicker, it's important to troubleshoot the issue as soon as possible. If left unchecked, a flickering light could eventually lead to a complete loss of light output - and become quite frustrating in a dark room!
Try inspecting the batteries first to see if they need replacing. If this doesn't solve the problem, then take a look at the bulb to see if it needs tightening or replacing. Lastly, check the connectors to ensure they're all secure.
One extra thing to consider is if your flashlight has a strobe setting alongside its high and low modes, you may have accidentally turned on the strobe setting as it would in emergency situations. Don't worry it has happened to all of us.
Finally, if your flashlight is going to be unused for an extended period of time, remove the batteries so they don't leak and damage the light. Following these simple tips should help you get the most out of your own flashlight's batteries.
What Is The Use Of A Flashlight In Hiking?
A flashlight can provide light in difficult and dangerous situations, such as hiking or camping in the dark, and can also help you signal for help if necessary.
A good flashlight should emit a bright light that can illuminate a long distance, and it should also be durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions.
It's a good idea to bring a flashlight with you whenever you go hiking, especially if you are hiking in an area that is known for its darkness or if there is a chance of losing track of time and ending up hiking in the dark.
How Does A Camping Flashlight Protect Me From Animals?
A flashlight can protect you from animals in a few ways. First, it can provide illumination to help you see the animals around you. This is especially useful at night when many animals are more active.
Second, the light from a flashlight can startle or deter some animals, making them less likely to approach you. Although most animals will not attack humans, there are some that may become aggressive if they feel threatened.
If you are walking back to your campsite after dark and see an animal nearby, shining your light at the animal will usually cause it to run away - animals are often scared of things that they cannot see. Having a light source with you will make them more aware of your presence and less likely to approach.
Can I Attach A Flashlight To My Bag Or Belt?
Yes, there are a few different ways you can do this. You can attach it to your bag with a carabiner or strap, or you can put it on your belt with a clip.
Some of the camping flashlights featured in this article come with attachment options which is great! Whichever method you choose, make sure the light is easy to access so you can use it when needed.
What Batteries Are Best For My Flashlight?
There are a few factors to consider when choosing the best batteries for your flashlight. The most important thing to look for is the battery size. Most flashlights use either aa batteries or aaa batteries.
Another thing to consider is the type of battery. There are two types: a rechargeable battery and a disposable one. Disposable batteries are cheaper, but they need to be replaced more often. The batteries in a rechargeable flashlight can be reused, but they cost more initially.
Finally, you need to decide whether you want an alkaline or lithium-ion battery. Alkaline batteries have a longer battery life than lithium-ion batteries, but lithium-ion batteries provide more power.
Ultimately, the best batteries for your camping flashlight will depend on your budget and how often you plan to use the flashlight.
Why Is A Flashlight Important In Mountaineering?
A flashlight is important in mountaineering because it can help you see obstacles and avoid dangerous areas while you are hiking or climbing. It also helps if you do get lost or stranded, allowing you to signal for help, especially if it has flashing light modes.
A flashlight can also be used as a tool - for breaking ice or if you need to start a fire, it's definitely a better option than a camping lantern.
Why Do You Need Different Modes On Your Camping Flashlight?
There are a few different modes that you might find on a flashlight. The most common are high, low, and SOS, all of which can be useful in different situations. A low mode (also called eco-mode) for seeing just in front of you, which is great if you want long battery life.
A high mode is for seeing long distances but means a shorter battery life, so for long trips don't forget to pack extra batteries and get used to refilling the battery compartment!
Many flashlights (not just for camping) have an SOS mode, where a pattern of flashing bright light spells out SOS in morse code. Very useful in a pickle.
When you are camping, a good flashlight should have a low mode (also sometimes called eco-mode) which will mean extended battery life, a flashing light mode (or SOS mode) brilliant for signaling if you need help, and a bright light mode or high power mode where you trade battery life for a more powerful beam, ideal when looking for something (or someone) in the distance.
How Can I Extend My Flashlight's Battery Life?
There are a few things you can do to extend your flashlight's battery life:
First, make sure you are using fresh batteries. Older batteries will not have as much power and will die more quickly. Additionally (especially if your flashlight needs three aaa batteries), quality matters, if you get good quality aaa batteries they are likely to last much longer, so you won't have to replace them as often! You may even want to grab a rechargeable battery, so you can drain the battery life and then recharge them when you're back at camp!
Secondly, avoid high-drain devices. Some camping flashlights have high-output LEDs that use a lot of power and will drain the batteries quickly. If your flashlight has an adjustable beam or eco mode, use the lower setting when possible to conserve power.
Third, keep your flashlight clean and free of dirt and debris. A clean lens will allow more light to pass through, making it easier on the batteries.
Finally, if your flashlight is going to be unused for an extended period of time, remove the batteries so they don't leak and damage the light. Following these simple tips should help you get the most out of your flashlight's batteries.
Is 1300 Lumens too Bright For A Camping Flashlight?
In short no, 1300 lumens is not too bright for a flashlight. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
First, consider the size of the area you will be using the flashlight in. If you're only going to use it in a small tent or around the campfire, you can use the low setting and conserve battery life.
However, if you are planning on hiking or exploring larger areas, then you will want something with more than just a low mode (like a 1300 lumen flashlight), to make sure you can see all around you when you need to.
Is An LED Flashlight Environmentally Friendly?
Yes, LED flashlights are environmentally friendly. LED bulbs consume far less energy than traditional light bulbs, have a long battery life, and produce less heat when turned on too!
As mentioned before, many led flashlights can run using a rechargeable battery, which means you could even charge your flashlight with a portable solar panel while back at camp, can you get more eco mode than that?
What's more, LEDs are also made from recyclable materials, helping reduce the amount of pollution caused by manufacturing new products. So overall, led flashlights are a good choice for an environment-friendly camping trip.
We know how important it is to be happy with your camping equipment. And that goes for flashlights too. Preparing your evening meal can become a very challenging process in poor light. Tripping your way over to the loo at night can feel like one adventure too many, without proper lighting.
We've looked through thousands of reviews to make sure we put together a well-researched list that helps you come up with the best flashlights for your next camping trip. Just tap the button to find out more about your perfect flashlight and start packing for your next outdoor adventure!
Our Choice for Exploring
Our Choice for Backpackers
Streamlight ProTac 750 Lumen Flashlight
Our Choice for Adrenaline Junkies
Our Choice for Family Campers
Hausbell T6 Flashlight - 2 pack
Our Bonus Eco-Friendly Choice
We have had so much fun comparing flashlights. Not quite as much fun as the camping holiday itself though, of course. We hope you found it useful and that you are looking forward to using your purchase on your next camping trip.
Whether you’re a backpacker or explorer, adrenaline junkie or family camper, you need a good flashlight. We shed some light on all this for you so that making your choice is clearer and you have more time for fun.
