Are you looking for light in dark places?
Have you ever been camping and realized there’s no moon around to help illuminate your surroundings?
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!
In this blog post, we’ll show you the best camping lantern of 2024 so that you can enjoy your backpacking, RVing, or car camping trips with a dependable source of light.
Whether it’s reading by the fire, star gazing in your tent, or taking in cheerful evening cocktails and dinner—these quality lamp designs are perfect when enjoying nature at its best. So if you’re ready to find out what kinds of lighting solutions will give that cozy campground feeling without breaking the bank—read on!
What is the Best Camping Lantern?
A camping adventure is incomplete without the presence of a reliable and efficient source of illumination, that’s why it is essential to find the best camping lantern to enhance your outdoor experience.
To determine what constitutes the ultimate camping lantern, one must consider factors such as brightness (light output), battery life, durability, and portability.
A top-tier camping lantern should have adjustable brightness levels, allowing campers to set the mood, conserve battery life, or prevent attracting unwanted critters.
Additionally, it should boast a long-lasting battery, ensuring that it remains functional throughout the night without the need for frequent recharging or battery replacements. The best lantern should also be built with durable materials withstanding the harsh elements of the outdoors, including water and impact resistance.
Lastly, a great camping lantern should be lightweight, compact, and easy to carry or hang, further contributing to its overall usability and effectiveness during your outdoor escapades whether it’s in the backyard, backpacking, or on an overland adventure.
When these crucial factors are combined, the quest for the top camping lantern becomes an attainable reality, making it an essential piece of your camping gear and a dependable companion for all of your adventures under the stars.
Ledlenser ML6
Overview
The Ledlenser ML6 is the perfect companion for all your outdoor adventures. With its state-of-the-art lens technology, the light is bright, glare-free, and distributed optimally for maximum energy efficiency. You can hang it up using the hook or removable stand, attach it to a metal surface with the integrated magnet, or simply set it down on a flat surface. It also boasts Smart Light Technology to program various light functions and a temperature control system that keeps light from overheating. Rechargeable and with a USB output to serve as a power bank, this little lantern comes with fluorescent elements so you can easily find it in the dark. Plus, there’s even a red light mode to preserve night vision.
Highlights
- Provides up to 750 lumens on max power
- Offers multiple light modes including dimmable white and red light
- Can operate up to 240 hours on low power mode
- The compact & lightweight design makes it easy to take with you wherever your go
- Includes a rubber hook for hanging, an integrated magnet for metal surfaces, and a removable stand
- It is waterproof, rated IP54, and resistant to dust and debris
- Weighs: 9.87 oz or 280 g
Price
$89.95
My Take
The Ledlenser ML6 is the ideal lantern for your outdoor adventures. With state-of-the-art lens technology and an array of features including temperature control, a power bank, a removable stand, hook, and magnet attachments plus red light mode – you’ll never be left in the dark. With its battery indicator, charge indicator, and 7-year warranty, you can rest assured that this compact lantern will keep your devices powered and provide optimal lighting for years to come.
LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern
Overview
Stay prepared and in the light with the LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern. This multi-functional phone charger & solar lantern packs a punch – up to 150 Lumens of brightness, 50 hours of runtime, and the ability to charge phones, headlamps, cameras, or even tablets. Perfect for camping, emergency kits, RVs, and reading. Connect your USB-A device or use an adapter for USB-C compatibility. With high capacity power and maximum brightness, this lantern can handle power outages or light up a family-sized tent with ease.
Highlights
- Has a maximum brightness of 150 lumens in a cool white light
- Can be charged by solar power or via USB and allows you to charge other devices
- Features an inflatable design that collapses for easy storage and transport
- It is waterproof and floats allowing for use in all conditions
- Provides up to 50 hours of use on low mode
- Constructed of rugged and durable material to make it last
- Weighs: 8.5 oz or 240 g
Price
$50
My Take
Stay prepared, in the light, and fully charged with the LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern. This multi-functional and powerful phone charger & solar lantern has a maximum brightness of 150 Lumens and up to 50 hours of runtime. Perfect for camping, emergency kits, RVs, and reading. Conveniently compatible with both iPhone & Android as well as any USB port with an adapter. Stay powered up no matter what with the PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern.
BioLite AlpenGlow 500
Overview
Get ready for your next outdoor adventure with the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 rechargeable lantern. This innovative device delivers realistic dusk or daylight feel in your environment, thanks to high-efficiency ChromaReal LED technology. For an added special touch, shake the lantern for an amazing rotation of mesmerizing, aurora borealis-like color patterns. Offering both ambient and task-based light, the AlpenGlow 500 is perfect for backyard barbecues or heading out into the backcountry.
Highlights
- Provides up to 500 lumens of bright, warm natural light
- The long-lasting rechargeable battery provides up to 200 hours of light
- Offers multiple light modes including a dimming feature
- Has a USB charging port that allows you to charge your devices
- Water resistant for use in rainy or wet conditions
- The lightweight and compact design allows for easy carry & storage
- Weighs 13.4 oz or 380 g
Price
$79.95
My Take
Get ready to light up your next camping trip with the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 rechargeable lantern. This high-efficiency device delivers a realistic dusk or daylight feel, complete with ChromaReal LED technology that accurately reproduces the colors of your environment. For an added wow factor, simply shake the lantern for an instant rotation of mesmerizing, aurora borealis-like color patterns. Perfect for any backyard BBQ or when heading out into nature – the AlpenGlow 500 is ready for any adventure.
Black Diamond Moji
Overview
The Black Diamond Moji is a lightweight, pocket-sized lantern that packs a punch. Perfect for camping or vehicles, this fun product is powered by Black Diamond’s Dual Fuel technology. Running on alkaline batteries or with a rechargeable BD 1500 Li-ion battery (sold separately), you can enjoy ultimate versatility and compatibility wherever you go. Bright, simple to use, and designed for any occasion – the Moji is sure to bring plenty of light to your outdoor adventures.
Highlights
- Provides up to 200 lumens of bright, ambient light
- The long-lasting battery provides up to 120 hours of light
- The Duel Fuel power feature offers the ability to use regular or lithium-ion batteries
- Light modes include a dimming switch and strobe lighting to provide adjustable brightness
- It is easy to carry & store thanks to its small and lightweight design
- Can be used in rainy or wet conditions without worry
- Weighs 2.6 oz or 72.5 g
Price
$24.95
My Take
Bring portable light anywhere with the Black Diamond Moji. This fun, pocket-sized lantern is perfect for camping, vehicles, and any other outdoor adventures. Equipped with Black Diamond’s Dual Fuel technology, you can either run it on alkaline batteries or upgrade to a rechargeable 1500 Li-ion battery for ultimate versatility and compatibility. Lightweight, bright, and simple to use – the Moji can be your go-to source of illumination.
MPOWERD Luci Solar String Lights & Charger
Overview
Illuminate your space with the MPOWERD Luci Solar String Lights. This expandable unit packs 100 lumens into 10 nodes on an 18-foot cord and is perfect for camping, hiking, backpacking, patios, RV camping, tent lighting, and more. With mobile charging capabilities and a design inspired by the sun, you can easily add some ambiance to any outdoor activity. The Luci Solar String Lights can turn night into day in an instant.
Highlights
- Provides up to 100 lumens with 10 individual lights on an 18 ft cord for a warm & ambient glow
- Integrated solar panels eliminate the need to plug in the lights to charge
- The built-in rechargeable battery can provide up to 20 hours of light on a single charge
- Designed to be splash resistant, making them usable in all weather conditions
- The lights have four modes allowing you to adjust the intensity of the light as needed
- Built-in USB ports for recharging the light and recharging mobile phones
- Weighs: 11.3 oz or 320 g
Price
$54.95
My Take
Add ambiance to any outdoor activity with the MPOWERD Luci Solar String Lights. This expandable unit packs 100 lumens into 10 nodes on a lengthy cord, perfect for camping, hiking, backpacking, and more. With mobile charging capabilities and a design inspired by the sun, you can light up your space with ease.
Goal Zero Lighthouse 600
Overview
Stay safe and be prepared with the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600. This multi-directional, adjustable light provides up to 600 lumens of brightness for camping, outdoor events, or emergency use. With a long-lasting lithium battery, USB output, and charging capabilities for phones and small devices plus a built-in hand crank; you’ll never be left in the dark. Collapsible legs provide a stand for maximum light dispersion and can fold in for convenient storage while the built-in handle allows easy carrying and hanging. Recharge the internal battery from any USB port, from the sun with a Goal Zero solar panel, or use the hand crank – whatever works best for your situation.
Highlights
- Offers multiple options to be charged via solar power, USB, or by hand cranking
- Has a maximum brightness of 600 lumens and provides four different brightness settings
- The built-in USB port allows you to charge other devices such as phones, tablets, and more
- Can provide up to 320 hours of runtime depending on the brightness setting
- The collapsible legs and foldable handle make it easy to store, stand, or hang
- Provides 360-degree lighting that illuminates your entire surroundings
- Weighs: 1.1 lbs or 498 g
Price
$69.95
My Take
The Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 is a great choice for anything – camping, outdoor events, or emergency use. With up to 600 lumens of brightness, USB output, and charging capabilities plus a long-lasting lithium battery, you can stay safe and prepared no matter the situation. Hang it, stand it, or store it – collapsible legs provide a stand for maximum light dispersion while the built-in handle allows easy carrying and hanging. Recharge with any USB port, Goal Zero solar panel, or hand crank for 10 minutes of light for every 1 minute cranked. Get ready to light up your space with the Lighthouse 600.
MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 Inflatable Solar Lantern
Overview
The MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 is a lightweight, solar-powered lantern that offers powerful, long-lasting light in any situation. With 75 lumens of brightness and no need for batteries, it shines for up to 24 hours on a single charge – just add some sun. Plus, it’s waterproof and can withstand up to 150 lbs of pressure for multiple uses like camping, hiking, backpacking, beach days, and more. Its adjustable base strap also makes overhead lighting easy – experience reliable light wherever you go with Luci Outdoor 2.0.
Highlights
- Provides up to 75 lumens of cool white LED light
- The inflatable design is lightweight and collapsible for easy transport and storage
- Powered with a built-in solar panel
- Provides up to 24 hours of continuous light on a single charge
- Offers four brightness settings that provide versatile lighting options to suit your needs
- Includes a fixed top strap and an adjustable bottom strap
- Weighs: 4.4 oz or 125 g
Price
$29.95
My Take
Don’t let the darkness slow you down, get ready for your next adventure with MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0. This powerful, solar-powered lantern is perfect for camping, hiking, backpacking, beach days, and more. Emitting up to 75 lumens of brightness through a clear finish, it shines for up to 24 hours on a single charge. Plus, its adjustable base strap makes overhead lighting easy and its lightweight construction and durability make it perfect for extreme adventures. It can even withstand up to 150 lbs of pressure.
Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Flash
Overview
Enjoy ultimate convenience, maximum brightness, and reliable protection with the Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Flash. This lightweight and USB rechargeable flashlight can provide 120 dimmable lumens of brightness and has an IPX6 weatherproof rating for added protection. The easy-to-read battery indicator lets you see what’s left in the tank, plus it only weighs 2.4oz for easy portability. And no matter where you are, you can charge the lantern with a compatible solar panel or USB source in about 3.5 hours and enjoy up to 170 hours of runtime depending on your desired brightness.
Highlights
- Provides up to 150 dimmable lumens and can be used as a lantern or flashlight
- Can be charged by connecting a compatible solar panel or via a USB connection
- Offers an easy-to-read battery indicator and up to 170 hours of runtime
- The integrated clip can be used to attach it to backpacks or other gear
- Built with rugged materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use
- The light is waterproof with an IPX6 rating
- Weighs: 2.4 oz or 68 g
Price
$24.95
My Take
With the Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Flash, you’ll get both convenience and useable light. This USB rechargeable flashlight is designed with a weatherproof IPX6 rating and delivers up to 120 dimmable lumens of brightness. Plus, it weighs only 2.4oz, has an easy-to-read battery indicator, and provides up to 170 hours of runtime depending on your desired brightness. Recharge from either a solar panel or USB source in about 3.5 hours. This is a great light for any kit.
Black Diamond Apollo
Overview
Illuminate your next outdoor adventure with the Black Diamond Apollo Lantern. This easy-to-use and multifunctional lantern delivers 250 lumens of adjustable, glare-free light. Its internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery or standard alkalines provide power, while an external USB port makes it perfect for charging your handheld electronics. Featuring a collapsible double-hook loop for hanging in the tent or on a tree as well as folding legs ideal for setting up on a table, the Apollo also has strobe and dimming modes that allow you to customize your camping experience. Plus, its power meter displays both alkaline and internal battery levels – so you can ensure light whenever you need it.
Highlights
- Provides up to 250 lumens of fully adjustable, bright & glare-free light
- Able to operate using either rechargeable lithium-ion or disposable batteries
- The integrated USB port provides the ability to charge your devices
- Offers a dimming function to control the brightness of the lantern
- It is collapsible, includes a double-hook hang loop, and redesigned folding legs
- Features a battery charge indicator for both power sources
- Weighs: 12.35 oz or 350 g
Price
$69.95
My Take
Bring your next outdoor adventure to life with the Black Diamond Apollo Lantern. This lantern packs 250 lumens of bright, adjustable & glare-free light as well as a collapsible double-hook loop for hanging in the tent or on a tree. There are also folding legs for setting up on a table, strobe and dimming modes for custom lighting, and a power meter to check battery levels. Plus, you can use the built-in USB port to charge any handheld electronics – making this the perfect companion wherever you go.
Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma Lantern
Overview
Ready for your next adventure? The Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma is great for any outdoor enthusiast. Not only does it provide up to 60 lumens of light on high settings and 35 hours of runtime on low settings, but it also has six colors, multi-color fade, and candle flicker mode to turn any campsite into a party. Recharge the lantern with the built-in solar panel or USB port via a micro USB cable (included). Plus, its collapsible design allows for easy storage. Enjoy reliable lighting wherever you go with the Crush Light Chroma.
Highlights
- Provides up to 60 lumens of usable light on high power
- Features a crushable design that makes it easy to pack and transport
- Offers 6 colorful and fun lighting options to suit your mood or setting
- Can be powered with two different options, the built-in solar panel or the USB port
- Provides up to 35 hours of light on low power
- Able to withstand the rigors of outdoor use because of its rugged materials
- Weighs: 3.2 oz or 91 g
Price
$24.95
My Take
Create an extraordinary ambiance anywhere with the Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma. This solar lantern provides 60 lumens of light on high, 35 hours of runtime on low, and six different color modes plus multi-color fade for a unique campfire experience. Recharge using any USB port or use its built-in solar panel. It’s collapsible for easy storage and will exceed your expectations night after night.
Coleman Deluxe Propane Lantern
Overview
The Coleman Deluxe Propane Lantern is the perfect choice for reliable and powerful outdoor lighting. With its PerfectFlow pressure-control regulator, adjustable brightness, and 1000 lumens on high providing light up to 23 meters (75 feet) – you can light up your campsite with ease. It also features a collapsible footed base for extra stability, a porcelain-coated 2-tier ventilator for rust resistance, a high-temperature globe for heat protection, and an easily transportable bail handle. And with a full tank, it can last up to 7.5 hours on high or 13 hours on low.
Highlights
- Provides up to 1000 lumens of bright light up to 23 meters or 75 feet
- The adjustable brightness allows you to easily control the light output
- Built with a sturdy metal frame and high-temperature globe for more durability
- Provides up to 13 hours of burn time on low
- The collapsible footed base provides stability and prevents tipping
- The bail handle offers convenient hanging and easy carrying
- Weighs: 3.5 lbs or 1.59 kg
Price
$44.99
My Take
Get reliable and powerful outdoor lighting with the Coleman Deluxe Propane Lantern. Featuring PerfectFlow technology for consistent performance even at high altitudes, 1000 lumens of light up to 75 feet, adjustable brightness, and a collapsible footed base for added stability. It also has features like a porcelain-coated 2-tier ventilator, a high-temperature globe, a bail handle, and 2 Insta-Clip #21 mantles. Additionally, it lasts up to 7.5 hours on a full tank.
UCO Original Candle Lantern Kit
Overview
Keep the chill away with the UCO Original Candle Lantern. This classic lantern provides cozy heat and natural light for up to 9 hours from its easy-to-use candle, which is lit in a flash thanks to its glass chimney and spring-powered tube. The sturdy metal frame and glass chimney protect from dampness and wind, while the side reflector directs light. With its lightweight and convenient collapsible design, this lantern is perfect for backpacking, mountaineering, snow camping, and other outdoor pursuits. And the included Cocoon helps protect the lantern during storage and transport.
Highlights
- The lantern uses beeswax candles which are long-lasting and a renewable & sustainable resource
- Depending on the candle it can provide up to 12 hours of warm & natural light
- It is lightweight & compact making it easy to pack and carry on your outdoor adventures
- The included neoprene cocoon slides on easily and helps prevent scratching, dents, and breakage
- An easy-slide glass chimney, spring-loaded candle tube, and viewing slot are included
- Easy to use in multiple settings with its simple twist-lock base, carrying handle, and hanging hook
- Weighs: 8.5 oz or 240 g
Price
$34.99
My Take
Fight the chill and stay warm with the UCO Original Candle Lantern. This lightweight, collapsible, windproof lantern is trusted and time-tested, fighting dampness and giving off a cozy heat and natural light for up to 9 hours. The convenient feature of a glass chimney sliding down to light the exposed wick makes it quick to use, while its metal frame with a spring-powered tube provides a reliable flame. And don’t forget about the included side reflector for extra light and Cocoon for protection during transport. A great low-tech lantern option.
Nite Ize Radiant 400 LED Lantern
Overview
The Nite Ize Radiant 400 Lantern is the perfect companion for any outdoor adventure or power outage. This robust 400 Lumen lantern is weather resistant and impact resistant, plus it features a carabiner handle to clip, carry, and hang almost anywhere. With three adjustable light levels—from intensely bright to softer lighting—you’ll always have the perfect amount of illumination in any situation. Plus, a protective carrying bag that doubles as a light diffuser offers convenient functionality. And with its 800-hour run time on low mode when powered by three D-Cell batteries, you don’t have to worry about running out of light anytime soon.
Highlights
- Provides up to 400 lumens on the high light mode
- Offers multiple light modes including high, medium, and low for a variety of lighting options
- Includes a long-lasting battery providing up to 795 hours of light on low mode
- The lantern is water-resistant and impact resistant making it suitable for all conditions
- Provides 360-degree illumination ensuring your area is well lit
- Integrated carabiner clip allows for easy hanging and carrying
- Weighs: 11.6 oz or 329 g
Price
$29.99
My Take
Get ready for any outdoor adventure with the Nite Ize Radiant 400 Lantern. This robust and reliable lantern is weather and impact resistant, with a carabiner handle that easily clips, carries, or hangs it almost anywhere. It provides up to 800 hours of light on low mode on three D-Cell batteries, and its advanced features include adjustable light levels and a unique light-diffusing bag. With the Radiant 400 Lantern, you always have the perfect lighting solution for any situation.
Electric vs Gas Powered Lanterns
There are several key differences between electric and gas-powered lanterns, each with its own unique set of advantages and drawbacks.
Electric lanterns primarily run on batteries and are known for their environmental friendliness, being both energy efficient and reusable. Their clean energy source eliminates the need for fuel, which makes them an ideal choice for indoor usage.
However, they may lack the brightness and warmth that gas lanterns can provide.
On the other hand, gas-powered lanterns utilize fuels like propane or white gas and are praised for their impressive brightness and warmth, making them particularly useful for outdoor adventures like camping.
They are also known for their resistance to cold weather, as they are less likely to experience a decline in performance.
While gas lanterns may outperform electric lanterns in terms of light output, they do come with a notable downside – the need for regular fuel replenishment and the associated expense and hazard of traveling and storing the fuel.
Additionally, they can be dangerous for indoor use, as the emissions may lead to hazardous conditions.
Taking these factors into consideration, it is essential for individuals to choose the type of lantern that best suits their specific needs in terms of safety, energy efficiency, and lighting performance.
What is the most Powerful Camping Lantern?
The most powerful camping lantern has the ability to illuminate even the remotest of campsites, transforming dark nights into safe and enjoyable experiences.
What makes a camping lantern powerful primarily depends on its brightness, measured in lumens, and the efficiency of its energy source.
Interestingly, gas lanterns often outshine their electric counterparts, and this can be attributed to the fundamental differences in their lighting technology. Gas lanterns utilize fuel, such as propane or white gas, which burns at exceptionally high temperatures, resulting in brilliant, intense light.
Additionally, their ability to generate more lumens per watt makes them a top choice for those seeking unparalleled brightness.
Conversely, electric lanterns rely on batteries and bulbs or LEDs, and whilst they offer a sustainable energy option and the convenience of adjustable brightness levels, their potential for illumination is ultimately limited when compared to the radiant glow of the gas-powered champions of the campsite.
How many Lumens do I need for a Camping Lantern?
When planning a camping adventure, choosing the right lantern is crucial for a well-lit and comfortable experience. Determining the appropriate brightness level depends on how many lumens your camping lantern should have.
Lumens are the unit of measurement used to express the quantity of visible light emitted by a source, impacting the lantern’s overall performance.
It is essential to consider various factors when researching lantern brightness, including the size of the campsite, individual light sensitivity, and intended activities.
For instance, a lower-lumen lantern (100 to 200 lumens) may suffice for a small camping spot, whereas a larger area might require a higher lumen count (300 plus lumens) for optimum illumination.
Furthermore, consider any nighttime activities, such as cooking, reading, or navigating around the campsite, as they may necessitate additional brightness.
Keep in mind that individual preferences and light sensitivity also play a role in determining the ideal lumens for your camping lantern, ensuring you select the perfect lighting companion for your outdoor excursions.
What is the Longest Lasting Camping Lantern?
When it comes to camping lanterns, longevity, and efficiency are key factors for those seeking the best outdoor lighting solutions.
The longest-lasting camping lanterns generally fall into two categories: gas-powered and electric.
Although gas lanterns have been a traditional choice for many campers, advancements in technology have led electric lanterns to become more popular in recent years.
Electric lanterns, especially those powered by LED bulbs, are now considered more efficient than gas lanterns. This is due to their long battery life, energy conservation, and versatile power options such as solar charging or battery packs.
Additionally, electric lanterns tend to be more eco-friendly and safer, as they do not produce potentially harmful fumes or open flames like their gas counterparts.
As a result, many outdoor enthusiasts and experts now prefer electric lanterns for their reliability, cost-effectiveness, and environmentally conscious design.
Wrapping Up
Whether you are a camping newbie or a pro, choosing the right camping lantern is an important decision and should not be taken lightly. There are many different types of light sources to choose from, so it is important to consider specific requirements before making a purchase.
Whether you go with traditional lanterns often powered by propane or petrol, or you opt for modern camping lanterns (electric or LED), taking into account size, weight, output, run time, and rechargeable features are key factors in finding the perfect one for your next outdoor adventure.
With all the options at hand, there’s no reason why every camper should not have access to a reliable and durable light source when they head out into the wilderness.
Ultimately, selecting the best camping lantern for you boils down to personal needs and desired creature comforts while outdoors.
Once you find a lantern that suits those needs, you can set out on your next outdoor trip with confidence knowing that you will have great lighting for whatever comes your way.
Our camping blog is your compass to wilderness knowledge!
Your gateway to diverse topics and timeless insights!
