Camping Lights

Headlamps, lanterns, flashlights, and camp lighting solutions

A good headlamp is the most-used piece of gear on any trip. We test output, battery life, weight, and the stuff that actually matters - like whether the red light mode actually works or just annoys everyone. From ultralight options to camp lanterns, we've got recommendations for every use case.

Our Top Picks

Best Headlamp

Petzl Actik Core

450 lumens, rechargeable, reliable. Our go-to.

Best Ultralight

Nitecore NU25

1 oz rechargeable. Thru-hiker favorite.

Best Lantern

BioLite AlpenGlow 500

USB rechargeable, great light quality.

Lighting Buying Guide

What to Look For

  • Lumens: 200-350 is plenty for hiking. 400+ for technical terrain.
  • Weight: Headlamps range from 1-4 oz. Every ounce counts.
  • Battery: Rechargeable for short trips, AAA backup for long treks.
  • Red Light: Preserves night vision, doesn't blind tentmates.

Price Ranges

Budget headlamps: $20-40. Quality rechargeable: $40-80. Premium: $80-150. A $40-50 headlamp covers most needs perfectly.