Skip to content 
Finding the perfect camping lantern can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With an array of portable lighting options available in 2023, it’s challenging to determine which is best suited for your outdoor needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve reviewed the year’s ten best camping lanterns, condensing the overwhelming market into easy-to-digest information. Join us as we illuminate your path to finding optimal brightness and reliability for those unforgettable nights under the stars.
Best Camping Lanterns 2023
| Category | Lantern Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Black Diamond Apollo | $69.95 |
| Best For Backpacking | MPOWERD Luci Base Lights | $48.00 |
| Best Solar-Powered | LuminAID PackLite Max 2-In-1 Power Lantern | $49.95 |
| Best Battery Life | UST 60-day Duro LED Lantern | $64.54 |
| Best for Car Camping | BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern | $59.95 |
| Most Versatile | Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 | $69.95 |
| Best Flashlight Combo | Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge Lantern | $29.95 |
| Best Gas-Powered | Coleman Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern | $95.39 |
| Best Mini | Snow Peak Mini Hozuki | $63.20 |
| Best Budget | MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2. 0 | $24.95 |
Best Overall: Black Diamond Apollo
The Black Diamond Apollo is the best overall camping lantern, offering a combination of impressive features and reliable performance.
Features & Description (Black Diamond Apollo)
The Black Diamond Apollo is a versatile camping lantern that stands out among the best in 2023. With its compact and lightweight design, it’s perfect for backpacking trips. The Apollo features charge indicator lights to show the remaining battery life, and it can be powered by both rechargeable batteries and traditional ones.
It also has a wide stand and rubber non-slip feet, making it easy to position on uneven surfaces. With a maximum brightness of 250 lumens, this lantern provides ample illumination for your nighttime adventures in the great outdoors.
Priced at $70, the Black Diamond Apollo offers exceptional functionality and versatility for all your camping needs.
Pros & Cons (Black Diamond Apollo)
The Black Diamond Apollo holds the top position in the list of the best camping lanterns of 2023 due to its exemplary features and performance. Here are the pros and cons of this camping lantern.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
Best For Backpacking: MPOWERD Luci Base Light
The MPOWERD Luci Base Light is the top choice for backpacking due to its lightweight design and compact size.
Features & Description (MPOWERD Luci Base Light)
The MPOWERD Luci Base Light is a versatile and practical lantern that is specifically designed for backpackers. This collapsible solar-powered lantern is lightweight, making it easy to carry on long hikes.
It is also incredibly durable, and able to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. The MPOWERD Luci Base Light not only provides bright illumination but can also be used as a power bank to charge your devices, ensuring you always stay connected during your trip.
With its impressive brightness and ability to charge phones, this lantern comes highly recommended for backpackers seeking a reliable and multi-functional lighting solution.
Pros & Cons (MPOWERD Luci String Light)
The MPOWERD Luci Base Lights has several pros and cons, making it an ideal choice for some campers, while others might find certain aspects lacking. Here are the key pros and cons to consider:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
It’s clear that the MPOWERD Luci Base Light is a well-rounded option that offers a lot of value, but it might not suit every camper’s unique needs and preferences.
Best Solar-Powered: LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern
The LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern is a top pick for solar-powered camping lanterns.
Features & Description (LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern)
The LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern is a versatile camping lantern that offers more than just illumination. With a maximum brightness of 150 lumens, this lantern provides ample light for your outdoor adventures.
It has an average run time of 5 hours on high and an impressive 50 hours on low, ensuring that you won’t be left in the dark during extended trips.
What sets this lantern apart is its power source options – it can be recharged via USB or solar power, making it perfect for off-grid situations. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry and store in your backpack.
Additionally, the LuminAID PackLite Max is weatherproof, so you don’t have to worry about using it in rainy conditions.
Whether you need a reliable light source for camping or emergency situations, the LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern is up to the task. With its combination of functionality and convenience, this lantern is a must-have companion for all your outdoor adventures.
Pros & Cons (LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern)
Now, let’s dive into the pros and cons of the LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Best Battery Life: UST 60-day Duro LED Lantern
The UST 60-day Duro LED Lantern is known for its exceptional battery life, lasting up to a staggering 60 days on the low setting.
Features & Description (UST 60-day Duro LED Lantern)
The UST 60-day Duro LED Lantern is a standout choice for any camping adventure. With exceptional battery life, this lantern can last up to an impressive 60 days on its lowest setting.
It’s perfect for extended trips or emergency situations where reliable lighting is a must. The lantern is highly regarded for its brightness and overall performance, ensuring you’ll have ample illumination in the great outdoors.
Its rugged construction makes it durable and capable of withstanding outdoor conditions, providing peace of mind that it will hold up even in rough environments. Plus, with multiple light settings, you can easily adjust the brightness to suit your needs.
Pros & Cons (UST 60-day Duro LED Lantern)
The UST 60-day Duro LED Lantern is a standout choice for its impressive battery life and exceptional durability. Here’s a look at its pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Best for Car Camping: BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern
The BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern is the perfect choice for car camping, providing a bright and versatile light source to illuminate your campsite.
Features & Description (BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern)
The BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern is a top-rated option for car camping enthusiasts. With its impressive brightness, long battery life, and convenient features, this lantern offers everything you need to illuminate your campsite.
The AlpenGlow 500 provides multiple light colors, including warm white, cool white, and red light options. It even has a candle flicker mode and color cycle mode to create a cozy ambiance at your campsite.
This lantern is also IPX4 water-resistant, ensuring it can withstand splashing water without any issues. With a price of $80, the AlpenGlow 500 falls into the mid-range category but delivers exceptional value for its price point.
Pros & Cons (BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern)
The BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern is a top pick for campers due to its many unique features and incredible performance, but just like any other product, it has its merits and demerits. Here’s a table summarizing the pros and cons of the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Most Versatile: Goal Zero Lighthouse 600
The Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 is the most versatile camping lantern on our list, with a wide range of features and options to suit any camping adventure.
Features & Description (Goal Zero Lighthouse 600)
The Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 is the top-rated camping lantern on our list. With an overall score of 79 out of 100, it offers exceptional brightness and versatility for all your outdoor adventures.
This compact lantern is roughly the size of a coffee mug when collapsed, making it easy to pack and carry. But don’t let its small size fool you – it provides powerful illumination to light up your campsite.
What sets the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 apart is its rechargeable battery and USB charge port. Not only can you use this lantern to light up your surroundings, but you can also use it to charge other devices like phones or headlamps through its USB port. It’s perfect for staying connected while exploring the great outdoors!
In addition to the convenience of USB charging, this lantern offers three different charging styles: USB, solar, and hand crank. So whether you have access to electricity or not, you can always rely on the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 to provide light when you need it most.
Pros & Cons (Goal Zero Lighthouse 600)
The Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 has been ranked highly among the best camping lanterns of 2023, with many praising it for its exceptional versatility. However, as with any product, it has its advantages and disadvantages.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Best Flashlight Combo: Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge Lantern
The Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge Lantern is the best option for those looking for a flashlight and lantern combo. Its compact size makes it easy to carry and its powerful LED lights provide bright illumination in any situation. The built-in USB port also allows you to charge your devices on the go, making it a versatile camping essential.
Features & Description (Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge Lantern)
The Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge Lantern is a versatile and reliable camping lantern that stands out among the top choices. With its compact size and lightweight design, it is easy to carry on backpacking adventures or car camping trips.
This lantern offers an impressive brightness level, providing ample illumination for your campsite or tent. It also functions as a flashlight when you need more focused lighting. The built-in rechargeable battery can be conveniently charged using a power bank through its micro charge feature, ensuring you always have power even in remote locations.
Additionally, the lantern has multiple modes to adjust the brightness according to your needs and includes a USB port for charging small devices like phones. With its combination of functionality, portability, and innovative features, the Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge Lantern is an excellent choice for all your camping lighting needs.
Pros & Cons (Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge Lantern)
The Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge Lantern is a highly recommended option due to its brightness, rechargeability, and portability, scoring 64 in our overall evaluation. However, just like any other product, it has its strengths and weaknesses. The following table gives an overview of the pros and cons of the Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge Lantern:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Best Gas-Powered: Coleman Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern
The Coleman Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern is the best gas-powered camping lantern, providing reliable illumination for your outdoor adventures.
Features & Description (Coleman Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern)
The Coleman Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern is a powerful and reliable gas-powered lantern that is perfect for your camping adventures. It can be fueled with either Coleman Liquid Fuel or unleaded gasoline, providing you with flexibility in fuel options.
With up to 5 hours of burn time, this lantern ensures long-lasting illumination during your nighttime activities. Although it may not have been named the best overall camping lantern in the article, its sturdy construction and reliable performance make it one of the top choices for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply enjoying a night under the stars, the Coleman Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern will light up your surroundings with its bright and efficient glow.
Pros & Cons (Coleman Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern)
The Coleman Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern is one of the few gas-powered options that made our list. Here’s what you need to consider before picking this model up for your next camping trip:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Best Mini: Snow Peak Mini Hozuki
The Snow Peak Mini Hozuki is the best mini camping lantern for those looking for a compact and lightweight option.
Features & Description (Snow Peak Mini Hozuki)
The Snow Peak Mini Hozuki is a top choice for campers looking for a mini camping lantern. It offers three lighting modes, including a cozy candle flicker mode that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere at the campsite.
Despite its compact size, weighing only 1.9 ounces, this lantern emits an impressive 60 lumens of light to illuminate your surroundings. Powered by AAA batteries, the Snow Peak Mini Hozuki provides convenience and reliability during your outdoor adventures.
With a battery life of 60 to 180 hours, you can trust that this lantern will last throughout your trip without needing frequent battery changes.
Pros & Cons (Snow Peak Mini Hozuki)
The Snow Peak Mini Hozuki is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact, lightweight camping lantern. We have put together a list of its pros and cons for a clearer understanding of what it has to offer.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Best Budget: MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0
The MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 is the best-budget camping lantern, offering excellent value for money with its affordable price tag.
Features & Description (MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0)
The MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 is a top-budget camping lantern for 2023. With a lumen rating of 75 and an IP67 waterproof rating, this lantern provides reliable illumination in outdoor settings.
It is rechargeable through solar energy, offering up to 6 hours of runtime on high and 24 hours on low. Weighing only 4.4 ounces, it’s lightweight and deflates easily for convenient storage and transport.
Whether you’re camping or hiking, the compact and inflatable design of the Luci Outdoor 2.0 makes it an excellent choice for illuminating small campsites without adding bulk to your gear.
Pros & Cons (MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0)
The MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 camping lantern has several advantages that make it a popular choice among campers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
Overall, the MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 offers reliable lighting with its waterproof design and solar-powered rechargeability while being portable and affordable—making it a practical option for campers looking for a versatile lantern without breaking their budget.
How to Choose the Right Camping Lantern
When choosing a camping lantern, consider factors such as size, weight, and portability to ensure easy transportation. Evaluate light output and brightness for optimal illumination in your desired camping environment.
Compare power sources – battery-operated, rechargeable, or solar-powered – based on convenience and availability of charging options. Weatherproofing is crucial for durability during outdoor adventures.
Additional features like adjustable brightness and mounting options can enhance versatility.
Considerations for Size, Weight, and Portability
Selecting a camping lantern also demands careful consideration of its size, weight, and portability. For backpackers or those involved in high-movement activities, the objective should be to opt for lightweight options that can easily fit into your rucksack without adding extra bulk.
The Snow Peak Mini Hozuki or MPOWERD Base Light are excellent examples of portable and light-weighted lanterns that score well in this category. However, if you’re car camping where carrying a load isn’t much of an issue, larger lanterns like the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 might work better as they offer superior brightness and functionality despite their hefty build.
No matter what type you choose the goal remains – to facilitate easy mobility during your outdoor adventures!
Understanding Light Output and Brightness
Light output and brightness determine how well your camping lantern will illuminate your surroundings. The light output, measured in lumens, indicates the intensity of light produced by the lantern.
A high lumen level means a brighter, more powerful light source. For instance, the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 provides an impressive spectrum of brightness with its 500-lumen maximum output.
Brightness control is another crucial aspect to consider for flexibility during outdoor activities. Camping lanterns like Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 come with adjustable settings that allow you to manage battery life while achieving desired illumination levels.
By understanding these factors, users can optimize their camping gear choices for enhanced night vision and overall improved campsite lighting experience.
Comparing Power Sources: Battery, Rechargeable, and Solar
Choosing the right power source for your camping lantern is essential as it impacts the lantern’s performance and versatility. Here’s a comparison of battery, rechargeable, and solar power sources for camping lanterns:
| Power Source | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Provides strong light output, easily replaceable, available everywhere. | Can run out quickly, especially on high settings, batteries can be heavy and less eco-friendly. |
| Rechargeable | Eco-friendly, can be recharged with power banks or car chargers, some models like the Coleman Rugged Rechargeable scored high with a score of 76 points. | Takes time to recharge, risk of running out of power if there’s no backup charging source. |
| Solar | Eco-friendly, unlimited power supply during daylight, MPOWERD Luci Base Light and LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern are top-scoring models. | Charging depends on sunlight availability, less efficient during cloudy or rainy days. |
Each power source has its own strengths and drawbacks. The choice depends on your specific camping needs and personal preferences.
Importance of Weatherproofing
Weatherproofing your camping lantern is a vital step toward ensuring its longevity. No one wants their light source to fumble during unpredictable outdoor conditions like rain or snow.
Camping lanterns come with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating which tells you their degree of protection against harsh elements. The higher the IP score, the better it can resist water and dust intrusion.
This feature becomes especially significant if you are going on long excursions or backpacking trips where exposure to adverse weather is more likely. To top it off, a robust weatherproof design gives your lantern an extra layer of durability and resilience making it a great companion for any outdoor adventure.
Additional Features: Adjustable Brightness, Mounting Options, etc.
The camping lanterns mentioned in this article come with additional features that make them even more versatile for outdoor adventures. One important feature to consider is the adjustable brightness mode, which allows you to customize the level of illumination according to your needs.
This is especially handy when you need a dimmer light for cozy evenings or a brighter light for cooking or reading. Additionally, some lanterns have mounting options such as wide stands and rubber non-slip feet, making it easy to position them on uneven surfaces without worrying about them toppling over.
These features ensure that you can set up your lighting wherever you need it, whether it’s inside your tent or in the campsite kitchen area.
Tips for Camping Lantern Maintenance and Care
To ensure that your camping lantern stays in good working condition and lasts for many trips to come, here are some important tips for maintenance and care:
1. Keep it clean: Regularly wipe down your lantern with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt or residue. Make sure to dry it thoroughly before storing it.
2. Check the batteries: If your lantern uses batteries, inspect them regularly for signs of corrosion or leakage. Replace old or damaged batteries promptly to avoid damage to the lantern.
3. Store properly: When not in use, store your lantern in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent damage and extend its lifespan.
4. Test before each trip: Before heading out on a camping trip, test your lantern to make sure it is working properly. This will give you time to replace any faulty parts or address any issues before you need it at night.
5. Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance guidelines and recommended cleaning methods for your particular lantern model.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your camping lantern remains reliable and ready for any outdoor adventure!
Conclusion
Discover the top 10 best camping lanterns of 2023, carefully selected and tested by experts. From the powerful Black Diamond Apollo to the budget-friendly BioLite SunLight, these lanterns offer exceptional brightness and various charging options. Whether you’re car camping or backpacking, there’s a lantern on this list that will illuminate your outdoor adventures with ease.
You may also like:
- Premium Camping Mugs & Enamel Cup
- Top 5 Camping Rocking Chairs of 2023
- 9 Best Ways to Keep Food Cold While Camping
- Best Michigan Campgrounds | 2023
FAQs
1. Are rechargeable lanterns worth it?
Rechargeable lanterns are definitely worth it for several reasons. First and foremost, they save you money in the long run compared to propane lanterns that require constant refilling.
With rechargeable lanterns, you can simply plug them into a power source or use solar panels to recharge them, eliminating the need for costly fuel purchases. Additionally, many rechargeable lanterns have high battery capacities and can be recharged using power banks or other portable devices, making them extremely convenient for outdoor adventures.
Not only do these lanterns provide bright and long-lasting illumination, but they also contribute to a more sustainable camping experience by reducing waste from disposable batteries.
2. Are camping lanterns waterproof?
While not all camping lanterns are waterproof, many of them are designed to be water-resistant. This means that they can withstand light rain or splashes without being damaged. Some lanterns even have an IPX rating, which indicates their level of water resistance.
It’s important to check the product specifications to see if a camping lantern is indeed waterproof before using it in wet conditions. Keep in mind that while some lanterns may be water-resistant, they should not be fully submerged in water as this could still cause damage.
So, if you’re planning on going camping in rainy or wet environments, make sure to choose a waterproof or water-resistant lantern for added durability and peace of mind.
3. Can camping lanterns charge USB devices?
Camping lanterns can indeed charge USB devices, providing a convenient power source while enjoying the great outdoors. One example is the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600, which received high praise for its rechargeable battery and built-in USB charging port.
This feature allows you to charge your phone or other USB-powered devices directly from the lantern, ensuring that you stay connected even in remote locations. So, whether you need to make an emergency call or capture breathtaking photos of your camping trip, a camping lantern with USB charging capabilities has got you covered.
4. Should I get a glow-in-the-dark lantern?
Glow-in-the-dark lanterns can be a fun and practical addition to your camping gear. These lanterns are designed with special materials that absorb light during the day and emit a soft glow at night, helping you find your way in the dark.
They are especially useful for marking paths or locating your campsite in low-light conditions. While not as bright as traditional lanterns, glow-in-the-dark lanterns offer a unique feature that can enhance your camping experience.
Whether you’re looking for an extra source of light or simply want something different, consider adding a glow-in-the-dark lantern to your camping essentials.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.