Best camping lantern
goal zero lighthouse 600
An all-around rechargeable lantern for all types of camping.
Best for backpacking
luminaid titan 2-in-1 LANTERN
A feature-rich lightweight lantern meant for backpackers.
Best battery life
ust 30-day duro 1000 Lumen led
A highly durable camping lantern with record runtime.
There is nothing like camping under the stars – until you have to chop those vegetables for dinner or head deeper into the woods for firewood. In the dark, with a small flashlight or headlamp that gives minimal light. But having a camping lantern can make all the difference.
A good camping lantern can provide light and keep your hands free in the darkness, help you find your way around the camping spot, and even keep you safe in an emergency.
We know – when you first hear of a camping lantern, it might remind you of those bulky, vintage lamps from the last century. But hear us out: modern camping lanterns have actually come a long way in recent years, with some great options for camping and backpacking.
We’ve looked at a variety of factors, including brightness, battery life, weight, and durability, and tried different types and styles, so there’s something for every camper. Whether you’re looking for a simple LED or something more tech-heavy, with light-coloring options or power banks.
Best camping lanterns in 2023
Let’s jump straight into a rundown of the best camping lanterns on the market in 2023.
1. Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 – best overall camping lantern
Specifications
- Size: 4.49″ x 5″ x 6.5″
- Weight: 17.6 oz
- Brightness: 600 lumens
- Max runtime: Both sides on the highest setting – 2.5 hrs, both sides on the lowest setting – 180 hrs
- Power source: Solar-powered and lithium-ion battery-powered
Pros
- Rechargeable in 3 ways – sun, USB, crank
- USB output for charging other devices
- Waterproof
- 360 degrees
- Charges fast through USB
- Possibility to light only one side
Cons
- Difficult to look at it – very bright
Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 is a rechargeable, all-around lantern that won’t ever leave you without light. You can charge it through a USB port, solar panels, or simply a hand crank (1 minute of cranking = 10-15 minutes of light). It’s a perfect option for car camping, power outages, and outdoor parties.
Lighthouse 600 is dimmable, so you can adjust the light settings as you wish – from minimum light inside your tent to the powerful lighting of the entire campsite. And if you don’t need 360 degrees of illumination or don’t want to blind your neighbors – simply power off one of the lantern sides.
Lighthouse 600 squeezes all its valuable features into a portable, lightweight lantern with rubber-coated collapsible legs wide enough to stand still on uneven terrains and a convenient handle.
This broad functionality and mobility make it a top pick worth every inch and ounce of your camping gear space (and every cent of investment, too!).
2. LuminAID Titan 2-in-1 Camping Lantern – best for backpacking
Specifications
- Package size: 8.27″ x 6.97″ x 2.95″
- Size: 6″ x 6″ x 6″
- Weight: 12.3 oz
- Brightness: 300 lumens
- Max runtime: Up to 100 hours on low mode (10 lumens)
- Power source: Solar and rechargeable built-in lithium-ion battery-powered
Pros
- Self-inflatable
- 5 brightness settings
- Red light mode
- No extra batteries needed
- Phone charger
- Ultralight
- Solar panel charges relatively quickly
Cons
- Slightly heavier than Packlite Hero – its previous version
- Not puncture-proof
LuminAID Titan is an ultimate 2-in-1 lantern that’s an excellent companion for backpackers. Light up your campsite, charge your phone, and enjoy your camp in the backcountry. When not in use, hang in the sun to recharge (or just use a micro-USB).
Titan is a new, improved version of Packlite Hero 2-in-1 Supercharger – a well-known camping lantern for backpacking. So, what’s different between the two?
Titan includes a red light mode that’s perfect for night activities. It’s more pleasant to the eyes, preserves night vision, and – naturally – is not so disturbing for your companions.
Also, Titan features a twist-to-inflate design for a super quick and easy setup (and more sanitary usage, too). Instead of inflating the lantern with your mouth, it’s enough to turn it with your hands.
When done using – just like Supercharger – Titan packs into a compact, flat square for comfortable storage and transportation.
Titan is a more feature-rich option for a maximized backpacking experience. Together with features, there automatically come 3 additional ounces – which is nearly unnoticeable – yet worth considering for those who count every little ounce in the camp backpack.
3. UST 30-Day Duro 1000 Lumen LED Lantern – best battery life
Specifications
- Size: 4.25″ x 4.25″ x 11″
- Package size: 9.5″ x 4.2″ x 4.2″
- Weight: 19.2 oz
- Brightness: 1000 lumens
- Power source: Battery-powered
- Max runtime: 30 days
- Water resistance: IPX4
Pros
- 5 light modes: high, medium, low, amber candle flicker, SOS flashing
- Highly durable
- Lifetime warranty
- Record runtime
Cons
- Difficult to attach the bottom after replacing batteries
- A bit bulky
- Not rechargeable
UST Duro is a powerful 1000-lumen lantern with an amazing battery life that’ll have your back for extended “dark” times.
This lantern can run for 30 days straight on a low setting – so you’ll never worry about power outages. Even on medium and high settings, UST promises you to serve for decent spans of 30 days and 12 hours, accordingly.
Such an exceptional runtime comes at the expense of its size and weight, though. Duro might not be the suitable choice for backpackers, but a go-to lantern for those traveling to the camp spot with a car or an RV.
It’s well-designed, with a sturdy hook for hanging and a detachable globe if you wish for more area lightning. UST Duro features a built-in LED bulb that manufacturers describe as “unbreakable” and “never needs to be replaced”.
This lantern shouts durability in every way – on top of the above features, impact and water-resistant UST Duro comes with a lifetime warranty.
Runners-up
Although not our top picks, there are some other stunning lanterns that stand out with their unique features and (or) performance. It’s time to meet the runners-up!
Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Size: 3.15″ x 4.72″ x 4.72″
- Weight: 7 oz (12.1 oz with batteries)
- Power source: Battery-powered (built-in rechargeable or 3 AA batteries)
- Max runtime: 24 hours
- Brightness: 250 lumens
- Water resistance: IPX4
Pros
- Doubles as a phone charger
- Durable
- High light quality
- Runs on both rechargeable and alkaline batteries
Cons
- Disposable batteries don’t work long
Apollo is a versatile, battery-powered lantern that provides a bright, ambient light around the campsite. It’s a portable, easy-to-carry model that also doubles as a power bank for other small devices. Although not the brightest option, it’ll serve a small group of 3 -4 campers just right.
This lantern includes a single button for strobe and dimming, so adjusting the illumination per needs is easy.
Apollo features tripod-style collapsible legs and metal hooks, so you can place this lantern on whatever surface you want. Opaque-style cover will improve the light quality and won’t ever blind you.
It’s a rechargeable lantern that can be quickly re-powered through a micro-USB cable or run on 3 disposable alkaline batteries. Apollo comes with two charge indicators to keep you informed about the remaining battery.
Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Size: 3.7″ x 3.5″ x 7.2″
- Package size: 7.87″ x 4.02″ x 3.94″
- Weight: 14 oz
- Brightness: 1000 lumens
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Max runtime: Daylight White – 18 hrs, Warm White – 25 hrs, Combined – 12 hrs
- Power source: Battery-powered
Pros
- Water resistance
- Removable cap
- 360 degrees
- 4 lightning modes – daylight white, warm white, full brightness, flashing
Cons
- Impossible to completely turn off without removing the batteries (light blinks)
- Not rechargeable
- Not so waterproof
LE LED is a small but mighty camping lantern that’s great for car camping, hiking, or emergencies. It’s 1000-lumen bright on its highest setting and goes down as you hold the power button. However, better be safe than sorry and carry some extra batteries, as the battery life is somewhat arguable.
Other than that, the LE LED camping lantern has 4 light modes, from more yellowish to white lights. If you’ve ever been exposed to harsh white LED flashlight, you’ll be relieved by this lantern’s warm white illumination.
This lantern is sturdy enough to stand on flat terrains in most winds. Thanks to its IPX4 water resistance rate, LE LED can be used in heavy rains or boating (just put it into a double-zipper bag for camping safety, as it wouldn’t float).
Featuring a hook and metal handles, this lantern can be hung for any purpose. It also includes a removable cap for hanging upside down if needed.
Specifications
- Size: 4.4″ x 1″ x 1″
- Weight: 3 oz
- Power source: Solar-powered and rechargeable battery-powered
- Max runtime: 170 hours
- Brightness: 150 lumens
- Water resistance: IPX6
Pros
- Ultralight
- Serves as a flashlight and lantern
- Dimmable
- Battery charge indicator
Cons
- Durability concerns
- Can be little hard to hang it
Goal Zero Micro Charge is a pocket-sized flashlight-and-lantern-in-one that’s excellent for personal use – solo campers should love this model for how space and weight-efficient it is. It’ll serve as a great companion while you’re on the move in the darkness or just skimming a magazine inside your tent.
This compact lantern features a USD-rechargeable lithium-ion battery and doubles as a charger for other small devices. It’s dimmable and can be used as a 360 or 180-lantern – all to maximize the runtime.
Some durability issues might occur over time as the plastic isn’t scratch-resistant though it shouldn’t cause risks to the lantern’s performance. Rated IPX6, Micro Charge wins over other reviewed lanterns when it comes to water resistance.
Overall, Goal Zero is an impressive model that looks like a classic tiny flashlight but gives powerful lights as a lantern as well. It’s one of the lightest options that’ll fit any light travel.
Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Size: 5″ x 5″ x 2″
- Package size: 6.02″ x 5.24″ x 2.13″
- Weight: 11.3 oz
- Brightness: 100 lumens
- Power source: Solar-powered and rechargeable battery-powered
- Max runtime: 15 hours
- Water resistance: IPX4
Pros
- Color changing (6 colors)
- Can be used as a portable lantern or string lights
- Easy to carry and hang
- Multi-functional
Cons
- String can be harder to manage
Among all the lantern options we review, Luci solar string lights probably give the most fun. If you’re off camping and celebrating some occasion (or simply feeling festive, why not?), Luci is a must-have in your equipment.
You can either spread and hang them around your camp, tent, or RV for cozy, even illumination (in the color of your choice, there are 6), or bring them together into a compact portable lantern.
And the functionality doesn’t end up with the form or color you use – mobile charging capabilities will allow you to go “back online” whenever you wish.
The string lights and, most importantly, the string itself seem very durable. They can stand rain, wind, and hanging on trees just fine.
Though the runtime specified by MPOWERD is up to 15 hours, it might last much longer if you use it on the lower setting. And if you leave it in the sun – you won’t have to worry about the battery at all, thanks to the built-in solar panel.
Specifications
- Material: Synthetic
- Size: 3.1″ x 2.9″ x 4.8″
- Weight: 6.6 oz
- Brightness: 490 lumens
- Power source: Gas-powered
- Max runtime: 10 hours
Pros
- Adjustable brightness
- Lightweight
- Uses same isobutane canisters as the Primus stoves (can use interchangeably)
- Push-button ignition without matches or lighter
Cons
- Replacing mantles can be a little tricky
- First setup can be a bit hard
- Glass can break rather easily
It’s a classy-looking yet compact gas lantern that’ll illuminate your campsite with a warm, adjustable light. Primus Easylight features Piezo ignition that makes it easy to light with just a push of a button, without a lighter.
Gas isn’t included in the package, but the good news is that you can use the same Primus isobutane canister (or any other Primus canister, just make sure to get an adapter) for stoves and lanterns.
Of course, gas-powered lanterns aren’t the best companions in heavy rains or harsh weather conditions in general, but as long as you light it up before soaking, you should be fine. EasyLight features a metal heat shield on top that’ll prevent water from running straight in. And if the weather is warm and nice, it should give you up to 10 hours of consistent light.
We’d also recommend taking extra mantles with you – they won’t add any weight but will serve you if the existing mantle tears. Gas-powered lanterns aren’t as sturdy as battery ones, so take care – the glass EasyLight is made of is susceptible to breaking, but the hard carrying case will keep it safe while packed.
Specifications
- Material: HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene)
- Size: 3.3″ x 3.3″ x 5.4″
- Weight: 9.6 oz
- Brightness: 300 lumens
- Max runtime: 16 hours for lantern mode, 9 hours – flashlight mode
- Power source: Battery-powered
- Water resistance: IPX4
Pros
- 4 pack: 4 lanterns, 12 AA batteries in the package
- Can increase runtime using alkaline batteries
- Lifetime warranty
- 4 light modes: lantern, flashlight, red night vision + strobe light or SOS
Cons
- Not rechargeable
VONT is a versatile, budget-friendly camping lantern that’ll illuminate any camping trip – hang it inside your tent or hook it on a tree branch anywhere around your campsite. You can bear it as a lantern or collapse it into a tiny flashlight.
You won’t need to make any extra purchases before using VONT, as batteries already come inside the 4-pack. In fact, you might not need to spend additional money on camping lanterns at all – VONT features a heavy-duty magnetic base that’s built to last, moisture weather conditions included.
What we like is that this camping lantern has a lifetime warranty. Not only for defects in materials or workmanship but also against loss and thefts – yes, it seems that VONT cares about value for money.
Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Size: 7.09″ x 4.72″ x 4.72″
- Package size: 2.91″ x 2.87″ x 2.36″
- Weight: 3 oz
- Brightness: 100 lumens
- Max runtime: 70 hours
- Power source: Battery-powered
- Water resistance: IPX4
Pros
- Ultralight
- Adjustable brightness
- Collapsible double-hook hang loop
- Safe against water immersion
Cons
- Not very versatile
- No legs
Moji is a miniature but sturdy lantern that’ll serve one or two people just right. We’ve seen plenty of reviews about this lantern standing through drops and bumps to harsh terrains like asphalt barely scratched – tells a lot, doesn’t it?
Moji features a low white or yellow light that’s perfect for using inside a tent without illuminating the woods. It consumes very little power, so you can not worry about light outages (and if you bring extra batteries with you, you’re 100% safe).
The lantern gives you the flexibility to use it with both rechargeable lithium-ion or disposable alkaline batteries. Disposable ones will likely do their work longer, though.
Moji is a 100-lumen lantern that’s as straightforward as it can get. It’s an excellent choice for close-up looks on solo camping trips.
Specifications
- Material: Blend
- Size: 9″ x 8.75″ x 10.13″
- Weight: 24 oz
- Brightness: 1000 lumens
- Power source: Gas-powered
- Max runtime: Up to 7.5 hours on high, 13 hours on low using 16.4-oz propane cylinder
Pros
- Push-button ignition without matches or lighter
- Adjustable brightness
- Porcelain-coated ventilator resists corrosion and rust
- 2 insta-clip 21 mantles included in the package
- Protective case included
- Pressure regulator
Cons
- Durability concerns
- Cover is a bit hard to open and close
- Carry handle not very sturdy
- Gets very hot – not suitable for using inside the tent
Coleman QuickPack is a gas-powered lantern that’ll give you powerful lights on any car camping trip. It’s a budget-friendly option that gracefully does what it’s supposed to do.
You won’t be struggling while lightning it up – simply push the button without playing with matches and lighters. QuickPack reaches an intense 1000 lumens for a 22-meter radius illumination, but the brightness is adjustable to the point you need.
This lantern is so bright that you can easily read a book at night. But be careful where you do it – QuickPack heats up rather quickly and thus isn’t suitable for use inside the tent.
It works with standard 16.4 oz propane bottles that you’d usually use for camping stoves, so there’s no need to spend extra money on getting some very specific parts to make this lantern work. QuickPack also features a pressure regulator that makes it a gas lantern to go in extreme weather conditions.
Specifications
- Material: Aluminum
- Size: 2.56″ x 0.78″ x 0.78″
- Weight: 8.8 oz
- Power source: Candle-powered
- Max runtime: 9 hours per candle
- Brightness: 20 lumens
Pros
- The go-to option for a survival kit
- 2 9-hour burning time candles included in the kit
- Easy to use
- Compact design
Cons
- Glass can break quite easily
This tiny lantern kit is a must-add to any camping emergency kit. Simply slide the glass down and ignite the candle (included in the package) for immediate illumination. With UCO’s reflector clip, you’ll focus the light where you need it.
This kit features two candles that burn 9 hours each. The spring-loaded base of a candle holder ensures a consistent light. Though you still need to be careful when moving the lantern when it burns, as it gets really hot.
The UCO candle lantern comes with a nice neoprene case for convenient storage and transportation. Certainly not for regular use, it’s a go-to kit that’ll save you in power outages at a budget-friendly price.
How to choose: Camping lantern buying guide
What’s the best camping lantern for you comes down to your needs. We’ve listed the main aspects and features to consider to make you grasp the idea better.
Brightness: How many lumens do I need for a camping lantern?
The more lumens, the brighter the light.
If you want to see your cooking or eating area, or even the whole campsite, you’ll need to go with 100 lumens and up.
But if you’re going to use your lantern for a close-up look, strive for anything with 60 to 100 lumens. There are electric lamps under 60 lumens that are great for using inside a tent.
Power source
Most modern, electricity-driven lanterns run on alkaline or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Alkaline batteries promise you fewer surprises. When the lantern dies, you can just put in new disposable batteries (don’t forget to take extra!) and enjoy your light. You can get them in nearly any shop and keep them as part of your emergency kit.
Though lanterns with rechargeable batteries are more versatile. Simply charge to 100% and start your trip full. These batteries also win over alkaline ones in freezing conditions. Most rechargeable batteries can be recharged through a USB source, some – with solar power or a hand crank.
Battery life
Suddenly-dead lantern can be a huge disappointment. If you’re using an electric lantern, battery life shouldn’t be underestimated. Most lanterns will light for 5-10 hours on their highest setting.
Don’t forget to take some extra disposable batteries or a power source to charge your rechargeable batteries (in the best case scenario, charge between uses).
Electric vs gas-powered lanterns
Choosing between an electric and gas-powered lantern relies on what primary features you want.
Electric lanterns work silently, weigh less, and can be safely used inside a tent. They often operate on alkaline batteries, which aren’t great performers in low temperatures. Below zero, they lose half of their capabilities. Rechargeable batteries will most likely fail to serve a multi-day trip without recharging.
Gas-powered lanterns, on the other hand, do better in severe temperatures (not to the fullest, but they still surpass alkaline batteries). They’re bright and inherently have longer lighting times. What you have to keep in mind is that gas-powered lanterns feature live flames, so they shouldn’t be touched or stored next to flammable items. Gas-powered lanterns are more delicate and need constant ventilation.
Portability
Think about how and where you’ll be using your lantern. For car camping enthusiasts, weight and size aren’t as game-changing as for backpackers.
So, choose a smaller, collapsible lantern if you’re off backpacking. The good news is that there are plenty of lightweight options designed to save weight and space in your backpack.
Sturdiness
Most options are wholly freestanding and will stand still on even terrains like camping tables. But many prefer to hang lanterns on tree branches, inside tents, or even a campfire tripod. So, it’s a plus if a camping lantern comes with operational loops for dangling in the air.
Ease of use
Here, electric lanterns triumph pretty easily. You just need to press the button and alter the brightness (if possible).
Gas-powered lanterns require a bit of extra effort – to light them up, you have to employ a fuel canister and ignite the wick.
Extra features
All lanterns do what they’re supposed to – light. But some can do even more.
There are lanterns that can charge your other devices through a built-in USB port, serve as flashlights, or offer some entertainment like color rainbows.
Other features strengthen the primary lantern features. You can seek out water or dirt- proof lanterns, dimming options, and integrated solar chargers.
Water resistance
The water resistance of a lantern is measured on the IP rating scale. IPX0 is a low-end of the scale, meaning there’s zero protection. The high-end marks IPX8, which shows complete sustainability to extended immersion.
Most of the camping lanterns we review are somewhere in the middle (IPX4) – they can resist steady rains but would yield lengthy and hard exposure.
Camping lanterns vs headlamps
If you’re into camping, there’s a good chance the headlamp has already found its place in your backpack.
Headlamps are often brighter and feature more accurate beams when navigating in complete darkness. Also, they’re size and weight-efficient. But lanterns still win with their ability to spread the light on the entire campsite.
Some campers, though, put their headlamps into empty water battles, this way creating a similar, dispersed effect. However, you’ll find some great backpacking lanterns in our review that save you from experiments and “wannabe” lanterns.
Got anything to add?
Have any experience to share or questions to ask about camping lanterns? Leave a comment below.
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