Are you planning to go on a camping trip soon? Do you want to make the most out of your outdoor experience? One of the essential tools you need to have is a reliable camping lantern. It provides light and creates a cozy atmosphere at your campsite, making your camping trip more comfortable and enjoyable. However, with so many camping lantern options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one.
This article will discuss the different types of camping lanterns, factors to consider when choosing one, and the best camping lanterns in 2025.
Types of camping lanterns
Before you choose a camping lantern, you need to know the different types available on the market. Each type has advantages and disadvantages, so you must choose one that fits your preferences and needs.
• Electric camping lanterns
Electric camping lanterns are the most common type used by campers. They are powered by batteries or rechargeable batteries, making them convenient and easy to use. The brightness of electric camping lanterns can be adjusted, and some models have additional features such as USB ports and built-in flashlights. However, they are unsuitable for long camping trips, requiring a power source to recharge the batteries.
• Fuel-powered camping lanterns
Fuel-powered camping lanterns use propane or butane gas to produce light. They are brighter than electric camping lanterns, making them ideal for large campsites. They are also durable and can last several hours without refill. However, they are heavier and bulkier than electric camping lanterns, making them difficult to carry around.
• Candle camping lanterns
Candle camping lanterns are the oldest type of camping lanterns. They use candles to produce light, making them ideal for short camping trips. They are lightweight and easy to carry, but their brightness is limited, making them unsuitable for large campsites. They are also not weather-resistant and can easily be blown out by strong winds.
Factors to consider when choosing a camping lantern
Now that you know the different types of camping lanterns, you need to consider the following factors to choose the right one.
• Brightness and lumens
The brightness of a camping lantern is measured in lumens. The higher the lumens, the brighter the lantern. You need to consider the lantern’s brightness, depending on the size of your campsite. A lantern with a lower lumen output is suitable for camping in a small area. However, if you’re camping in a large area, you need a lantern with a higher lumen output.
• Battery life and power source
Consider its battery life and power source if you’re using an electric camping lantern. The battery life of a camping lantern depends on its brightness and usage. Therefore, you need to choose a lantern with long battery life to avoid frequent recharging. You also need to choose a lantern with a power source that is easy to find, such as AA or AAA batteries.
• Size and weight
The size and weight of a camping lantern are essential factors to consider, especially if you’re hiking to your campsite. You must choose a lightweight and compact lantern to fit in your backpack. However, you also need to consider the size of the lantern, depending on the size of your campsite.
• Durability and weather resistance
Camping lanterns are exposed to different weather conditions, such as rain and wind. Therefore, you need to choose a durable and weather-resistant lantern to withstand these conditions. Look for lanterns made of high-quality materials, such as aluminum or steel, and those with weather-resistant features, such as waterproof casings.
Additional features to look for
Some camping lanterns have additional features to make your camping trip more enjoyable. Look for lanterns with built-in flashlights, USB ports, and dimming options. These features can come in handy when you’re camping in the dark.
Best camping lanterns in the market
Now that you know the different types of camping lanterns and factors to consider, here are the best camping lanterns in the market.
1) Barebones Living LED camping lanterns
Barebones Living offers a range of camping lanterns perfect for outdoor activities, emergency situations, and entertaining in the backyard, including Barebones Forest Lantern and Barebones Railroad Lantern. Their vintage-inspired lanterns create a warm ambiance and are rechargeable, making them eco-friendly and convenient.
Additionally, the Barebones Edison Living Mini Lanterns come in a pack of three and are battery-operated, making them perfect for camping and disaster preparedness goods. With Barebones Living camping lanterns, you can enjoy the great outdoors while still having access to light and the ability to charge your small devices.
2) Luci solar camping lanterns
With a wide range of camping lanterns, Luci camping lanterns are a popular choice for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. These lanterns are lightweight, inflatable, and solar-powered, making them eco-friendly and easy to carry around. The Luci Base Light is a versatile option that provides up to 360 lumens of bright light and can charge small devices. The Luci Outdoor 2.0 is a waterproof lantern that can last up to 24 hours on a single charge and features four brightness settings.
Other popular models include the Luci Pro Series and the Luci Color. These lanterns are perfect for camping, hiking, and emergency preparedness.
3) Kovea gas camping lanterns
Kovea is knowns for its gas camping lanterns: Observer and Firefly. With its exceptional brightness and compatibility with standard screw camping gas canisters, the Kovea Observer camping lantern is a must-have for serious backpackers and campers. Equipped with a lighting mantle, this lantern provides bright light and warmth for outdoor excursions, ensuring you stay comfortable in all conditions.
On the other hand, the Kovea Firefly lantern boasts a user-friendly one-touch manual piezo ignition system. It is compatible with iso-butane screw-type gas canisters. In addition, its surface is coated with durable ceramic material and comes with a detachable stainless reflector. The lantern is also designed to be foldable, making it easy to assemble and store in its compact size.
Final tips
Choosing a suitable camping lantern can significantly impact your outdoor experience. Remember to choose a lantern that fits your preferences and needs. With these tips, you can embark on your outdoor adventure with the perfect camping lantern.
