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The best camping flashlights are but a small investment, albeit a crucial one. So we decided to write the article 11 Best Camping Flashlights – Rated and Reviewed.
Camping is one of the most beloved and practiced pastimes in the United States. Each year countless individuals, groups, and families enjoy the many freedoms that come with being submerged in nature.
And, when darkness falls, they rely on their trusty flashlight. But, how to choose the best one?
What’s the Difference Between Camping Flashlights and Regular Flashlights?
A regular flashlight like the one may keep in your trunk, toolbox, or lying around the house, for emergencies, typically puts out anywhere from 40 to 100 lumens. In other words, just enough light to see in the dark (and not much more than a few feet at that).
A camping flashlight, on the other hand, is not only much brighter (often throwing at as much as several hundred lumens) but also is designed for much more diverse usage than a normal flashlight. Camping flashlights are also, more often than not, far more durable than typical regular-use flashlights.
For example, normal flashlights run on (for the most part) throw away batteries while camping flashlights require more powerful batteries or are equipped with internal batteries that can be re-used hundreds or thousands of times before needing to be replaced.
In addition, the best camping flashlights also include bonus features that regular flashlights lack such as glass breakers, lantern lights, SOS mode, USB charger ports, and much more.
11 Best Camping Flashlights
We reviewed and rated some of the finest camping flashlights available on the market today (full reviews for each individual flashlight are available a bit further down the page). After careful consideration, we assigned a star rating (on a scale of five stars max) to each one based on several crucial factors such as ease of use, quality of construction, power source, brightness, and lifespan.
That said, here is a sneak-peak of our picks for the current 11 best camping flashlights:
- LED Tactical Flashlight
- LE Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern Flashlight
- Dorcy 55 Lumen Floating Waterproof LED Flashlight
- Anker Rechargeable Bolder LC90 LED Flashlight
- Etekcity LED Camping Lantern Portable Flashlight
- LED Lantern V2.0 with Flashlight
- Wsky Camping Lantern and Rechargeable LED Flashlight
- GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight S1000
- outlite A100 LED Flashlight
- Wsky Rechargeable LED Tactical Flashlight
- Beike LED Tactical Flashlight
Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|
2 Pack LED Tactical Flashlights - Super Bright, Water Resistant, Zoomable Flashlights with 5 Light Modes | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
LE Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern with 5 Light Modes, Waterproof - USB Cable Included | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
Dorcy 55 Lumen Floating Waterproof LED Flashlight with Carabineer Clip | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
Anker Rechargeable Bolder LC90 LED Flashlight, Pocket-Sized with Super Bright 900 Lumens CREE LED, Water-Resistant, Zoomable, 5 Light Modes - Battery Included | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
Etekcity 4 Pack LED Camping Lantern Portable Flashlight with 12 AA Batteries | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
2 x LED Lantern V2.0 with Flashlight - The Original & Best Lantern/Flashlight Combo - Batteries Included | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
Wsky Led Camping Lantern - Rechargeable LED Flashlight Lantern - High Lumen, Rechargeable, 4 Modes, Water Resistant | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight S1000 [2 PACK] - High Lumen, Zoomable, 5 Modes, and Water Resistant | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
outlite A100 Portable 2000 Lumens Handheld LED Flashlight - Waterproof with Adjustable Focus and 5 Light Modes | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
Wsky Rechargeable LED Tactical Flashlight, S3000E High Lumens USB Flashlight with 5 Modes, Zoomable, and Water Resistant - Battery Not Included | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | ||
Beike 2 Pack LED Tactical Flashlight (Batteries Included) - 5 Modes, High Lumen, Zoomable, and Water Resistant | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon |
What to Consider Before Buying a Camping Flashlight?
Before purchasing just any old flashlight and packing it up with the rest of your camping gear, consider the following factors:
✳️ Power Source
In comparison to household flashlights, which are mainly powered by disposable batteries (such as AA and AAA), camping flashlights often include a much more long-lasting and reliable power source (such as larger disposable C-type and D-type batteries or internal rechargeable batteries).
And, for a flashlight that will be used for camping expeditions, this is one of the most important features to pay attention to. After all, not only does the power source determine how long your flashlight will run, but it also determines how bright it will be as well as how many other features and modes the flashlight will be capable of.
✳️ Ease of Use
How hard, or easy, it is to use flashlight matters immensely, especially when you are camping out in nature and it is your only source of guaranteed light in the dark of night. The last thing you need is a flashlight that is hard to turn on or off, switch modes, or otherwise operate.
The easier a camping flashlight is to use, the better. Keep this in mind while shopping around for the best camp light to add to your outdoor adventure gear.
✳️ Durability
The level of durability possessed by a camping flashlight is one of its most important values. That said, the quality of materials used in the casing and components of the flashlight is among the most critical factors to determine the unit’s overall durability.
The higher the level of durability, the more expensive the flashlight will be. However, products with high levels of durability, and higher costs, normally come with much better guarantees and warranty options as well.
✳️ Brightness
For many, the brightness factor is the most important consideration to take into account when shopping for a great flashlight for camping. After all, other than the slight light given off by your campfire (if you even have one, that is), your camping flashlight is the only source of illumination that you can count on out there in nature.
The level of brightness is determined by power source, quality of components, and type of bulb, to name a few of the most significant factors.
A great camping flashlight should have well over 100 lumens (especially if it doubles as a camp lantern). Flashlights less than 100 lumens are best left at home as they won’t really shed enough light into the darkness to lend you much help anyway. That said, LED camping flashlights typically throw off the most lumens (sometimes as much as 1000 lumens).
✳️ Warranty Coverage
Any product which is genuinely superior to the competitors comes with some sort of guarantee or warranty options. Camping flashlights are no exception. The best ones include everything from money-back guarantees to limited or lifetime warranties and technical support.
If you have got a specific flashlight in mind for camping, double-check warranty options and guarantees before going through with the purchase. You’ll thank yourself later.
11 Best Camping Flashlights Rated and Reviewed
We’ve taken the liberty of researching, comparing, reviewing, and rating several of the best camping flashlights currently available on the market.
Here they are:
1. LED Tactical Flashlight
A super bright LED Tactical Flashlight, this unit puts off 2000 lumens up to 656 feet away with its LED bulb and is perfect for camping. Built to last, the flashlight is designed to work for 50,000 hours or more.
If you’re looking for something cutting edge, you found it. This flashlight utilizes the newest CREE XML T6 LED chip, allowing for easy mode switching as well as adjustable focus and zoom features. So, whether you desire a focused beam or a wide range of illumination, this unit has you covered.
For a camping flashlight, they just don’t get much rugged than this one. Featuring IPX-5 waterproofing, skid, and abrasion resistance, as well as a high-end aluminum alloy frame.
Even more, the flashlight is extremely portable (will fit in your pocket or gear bag with ease) and lightweight measuring roughly 5.4 inches and weighing in at approximately 185 grams. It also comes with a one-year no-questions-asked warranty.
✅ Pros
- Extraordinary value for the price
- Long-lasting durability
- 5 easy-to-use modes
- Includes a one-year replacement warranty and customer service
⛔️ Cons
- Smaller than many camping flashlights
- Batteries not included with purchase
2. LE Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern Flashlight
Another super bright camping flashlight, the LE Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern Flashlight combo, is equipped with the latest CREE T6 LED light bulb, providing better illumination than many similar products. This particular unit throws out 1000 lumens for up to a length of a whopping 1650 feet.
The unit comes with a built-in rechargeable 3600mAh power bank that you can use to charge other devices while out in nature on your latest adventure, and It comes with five individual light modes as well, making it quite the versatile camping light.
The flashlight is also IP44 waterproof, lightweight (less than 30 ounces), and extremely easy to use, making it great for even the youngest of campers (meaning, children).
This diverse camping flashlight also has a built-in lantern, spotlight mode, red flashing mode, and more. A two-year warranty and money-back guarantee are also provided by the manufacturer.
✅ Pros
- Super bright 1000 lumen LED bulb
- Waterproof and durable design
- Lightweight especially for its size
- Five convenient light modes
- Two-year warranty and money-back guarantee
⛔️ Cons
- May not shine as far as advertised
- Slightly bulky compared to many camping flashlights
3. Dorcy 55 Lumen Floating Waterproof LED Flashlight
Powered by three AA batteries (included with your purchase), the Dorcy Waterproof LED Flashlight features a genuinely durable rugged design guaranteed to stand up to the test. That said, the 55 lumens produced by each of the four LED lights aren’t as bright as many comparable units available on the market.
Fresh batteries provide approximately eight and a half hours of power. Furthermore, the flashlight is designed to be impact-resistant and water-resistant (this light will actually float if dropped in water).
In addition, the flashlight comes with a built-in carabineer clip for easy attaching to your belt loops or camping/hiking backpack.
If you’re looking for a small light for using around camp, or a secondary camping flashlight for emergencies, this light is an excellent choice.
✅ Pros
- Affordable camping flashlight
- Built-in carabineer clip
- Impact-resistant and water-proof
- Long-lasting power for a battery-operated light
⛔️ Cons
- Smaller than many camping flashlights
- Not as many lumens as comparable lights
4. Anker Rechargeable Bolder LC90 LED Flashlight
This tough little camping flashlight, the Anker Rechargeable Bolder LC90, features a smart and compact design (it is basically a tactical flashlight) with IP65-rated water resistance (you can use it even in the heaviest of downpours). The light itself consists of a CREE LED capable of throwing 900 lumens approximately 660 feet (the length of two entire football fields).
Several features make this the ideal camping flashlight for outdoorsmen including fully adjustable zoom, wide beam, narrow beam, strobe, Sand SOS mode. Furthermore, there are also high, medium and low brightness levels.
Purchase includes a micro USB cable to charge the 3350mAh internal battery. However, the 1A adapter required for charing the light is not included and will need to be purchased in addition. Charging takes around six hours.
The flashlight has an estimated 50,000-hour lifespan and features a long-lasting aluminum frame (pocket-sized) with built-in shock resistance and anti-slip grip. A wrist strap, users’ guide, and 18-month manufacturers warranty and free customer service.
✅ Pros
- 900-lumen CREE LED
- Shines up to 660 feet into the darkness
- Rechargeable power source
- IP65 water resistance
⛔️ Cons
- May cost slightly more than comparable camping flashlights
- Slightly dimmer than comparable lights
5. Etekcity LED Camping Lantern Portable Flashlight
Etekcity’s LED Camping Lantern Portable Flashlight is designed with high-end military-grade ABS materials and features 30 individual energy-efficient LED lightbulbs. Created to outlast other camping lanterns and flashlights, this 360-degree light is long-lasting and lightweight.
When you’re not using the light, you can collapse it down into a more compact size for easy storing and transporting.
Twelve AA batteries come pre-installed in the unit but will need replacing after around 12 hours of continuous use. That said, the light is FCC certified, RoHS compliant, and built to be as versatile of a camp light as possible.
The light is made in the USA as well, and, the manufacturer is available for questions and customer service. So if you prefer to purchase goods manufactured in the states this may be the camping flashlight and lantern combo for you.
✅ Pros
- High-end ABS materials
- 30 LED light bulbs
- Military-grade frame
- FCC certified and RoHS compliant
- Convenient handle for hanging or carrying
⛔️ Cons
- Unclear how many exact lumens the light puts off
- Requires a lot more batteries than most camping flashlights
6. LED Lantern V2.0 with Flashlight
The LED Lantern V2.0 with Flashlight is an intelligently designed camping flashlight that contains 30 COB LED bulbs with a 360-degree angle field of illumination (perfect for lighting up a tent, camp, or interior or an RV). And, with it’s wide-angle, the light is excellent for nature hiking in the dark as well as for use around camp.
Featuring a rugged build, the light is durable, shock resistant, and IPX4-level water-resistant (not fully waterproof). That means you can use this flashlight in moderate rain and not be afraid of it shorting out.
Compact and lightweight, this camping flashlight measure 5.5 inches and is collapsible down to 3.5 inches for easier carrying. In addition, the unit requires inexpensive AA batteries rather than larger more expensive ones such as C-Type or D-Type. Batteries come with your purchase.
The manufacturer backs their camping flashlight with a solid five-year warranty, a 30-day 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, and offers US-based customer service as well.
✅ Pros
- Smart design for easy use
- A compact and lightweight frame
- COB LED lights with 360-degree illumination
- 5-year warranty and 30-day satisfaction guarantee
⛔️ Cons
- Is not rechargeable (takes batteries)
- Not fully waterproof (IPX4 water resistance)
7. Wsky Camping Lantern and Rechargeable LED Flashlight
For those searching for one of the latest and greatest camping flashlights on the market, the search stops here. The Wsky Camping Lantern and Rechargeable LED Flashlight is equipped with high-end COB LED bulbs, multiple flashlight brightness levels and modes (including red strobe and SOS mode), and a water-resistant frame.
The flashlight is capable of being charging via USB cable (included in purchase) or with three AA batteries (not included with purchase), making it more eco-friendly than most comparable models. Furthermore, the flashlight has a magnetic bottom which allows you to free up your hands in some situations (as you can stick it to anything that is metal).
The unit is lightweight and portable (constructed of super-lite military-grade materials) as well as coming with handles and a hook for easy carrying and hanging the unit around camp, in tents, RVs, or elsewhere.
The manufacturer does not offer a warranty or guarantee, however, they do provide no-worry after-sale service and quick customer service. Also, the company welcomes pre-purchase inquiries about the product; so don’t be shy if you have questions!
✅ Pros
- Equipped with bright COB LED bulbs
- 360-degree light shine
- Versatile charging/power options
- Lightweight, rugged, and water-resistant
- Magnetic bottom
⛔️ Cons
- No warranty or guarantee
- May not be as bright as other newer camping flashlights
8. GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight S1000
A military-grade camping flashlight with ultra-bright bulbs that throw light up to 1000 feet, the GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight S1000 is as much as ten times brighter than old-fashioned flashlights (incandescent lights). Powered by three AAA, or a rechargeable battery, it’s far more versatile than comparable units. That said, batteries are not included in the purchase.
Speaking of superior versatility, this impressive camping flashlight is programmed with five modes (high, medium, low, strobe, and SOS) as well as a wide-to-narrow adjustable zoom feature. And, even more, the light is compact enough to fit in a pocket or backpack with ease.
Designed for even the most rugged camping expeditions, the light is water-resistant (enough to drop in water or use in heavy rain) and is nearly indestructible. The manufacturer claims the flashlight can even be completely frozen, dropped from over 10 feet, or ran over by a truck, and still function perfectly!
Two lights come with your purchase, as well as a holster for easier carrying. A one-year replacement warranty and US-based customer service also come with the purchase of this tough little camping flashlight.
✅ Pros
- 10 times brighter than incandescent lights
- Shines on objects as much as 1000 feet away
- Consists of military-grade materials and is practically indestructible
- Five modes and a fully adjustable zoom
- One-year warranty and customer service included
⛔️ Cons
- Could have a better warranty and guarantee
- May be dimmer than expected (in comparison to other super-bright camping flashlights)
9. outlite A100 LED Flashlight
One of the most affordable and best selling camping flashlights currently on the market is the outlite A100 LED Flashlight. Another military-grade ultra-bright LED flashlight, this lamp is capable of blasting 2000 lumens up to 1000 feet away.
The flashlight is powered by your choice of three AAA batteries or a solo 18650 rechargeable battery, and a single charge lasts for more than five full hours. That said, neither type of batteries are included with the purchase, so that is an additional cost to consider (and one of the reasons the unit retails for such an affordable price).
Compact, slip-proof, impact-proof, and water-resistant, this ergonomically designed flashlight is built for even the toughest of environments. Even more, the unit comes with two spare O rings that further waterproof it. And, made from aluminum alloy, and equipped with a copper battery contact, the flashlight is long-lasting.
Adjustable focus, high, medium, low, strobe, and SOS modes are pre-programmed into the unit as well, making them super ideal for camping, hiking, RVs, and emergencies.
✅ Pros
- LED light capable of 2000 lumens
- Compact and lightweight
- Slip-resistant, impact-resistant, and water-resistant
- Extremely affordable for the quality
- Five light modes and an adjustable focus
⛔️ Cons
- Does not include batteries with purchase
- Could be slightly larger (barely over 5 inches long and an inch and a half wide)
10. Wsky Rechargeable LED Tactical Flashlight
The Wsky Rechargeable LED Tactical Flashlight is a great pick for those searching for the best pack of camping flashlights (this purchase gives you eight for the price of one). These versatile units are equipped with extra bright L2S wick lights that throw illuminations up to 1000 feet away.
The flashlights are powered by a single AAA and are chargeable via three convenient methods (including 26650 or 18650 rechargeable batteries, AAA, or USB charger). Even more, these flashlights offer five light modes including high, medium, low, strobe, SOS, and a fully adjustable zoom function. All modes are accessible by a single button.
The frame consists of military-grade materials as do most worthy camping flashlights these days. Also, a convenient power indicator is built-in, so you never need to guess how much power is left (or be left in the dark without notice).
These camping lights are not only easy to use, compact, and lightweight, they are also highly durable, have slip-resist grips, and IP65 water resistance as well making them perfect for backup lights, hiking, camping, RVing, hunting, and more.
✅ Pros
- Three charging methods
- Bright L2S wick lamps
- Five light modes and zoom function
- Best deal for multiple units
- Easy to read power indicator
⛔️ Cons
- Smaller than most camping flashlights
- Require charging more frequently than comparable lights
11. Beike LED Tactical Flashlight
The last camping flashlight on our list is the Beike 2 Pack LED Tactical Flashlight, an extra-bright light guaranteed by its manufacturer to run for over 50,000 hours of output.
Capable of running for up to a full six hours per charge, the unit is powered by your choice of three AAA batteries (included in purchase) or a single 18650 battery (not included with purchase). The flashlight is equipped with five light modes (strobe and SOS included) and a fully adjustable zoom as well, all operated via a single push-button.
The casing of the flashlight is skid-proof, shock-resistant, and IPX4 water-resistant as well. As far as size goes, this flashlight can easily fit into a pocket or a small pouch in a camping/hiking bag. That said, the flashlight is pretty convenient.
Even more, a one-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee come with the purchase as well, so it’s practically risk-free.
✅ Pros
- Five modes and an adjustable zoom
- Shock-proof and IPX4 water-resistant
- More than one way to charge
- Warranty and money-back guarantee included
⛔️ Cons
- Smaller than many camping flashlights
- Doesn’t run as long as some similar flashlights before needing to be charged
Which Camping Flashlight is Best for You?
For those seeking one of the very best camping flashlights on the market (and don’t mind the fact that you get two for the price of one) the super bright LED Tactical Flashlight is an excellent option. With 2000 lumens of light, a CREE XML T6 LED chip, and a genuinely lightweight and tough-as-nails frame, this unit is a real winner.
That said, for folks looking for a camping flashlight and lantern combo type unit, the LE Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern Flashlight is one of our top suggestions. Equipped with a CREE T6 LED chip, waterproof and shock-proof housing, multiple light modes, and a two-year warranty (plus money-back guarantee), you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better deal.
I went back to my trusty and dependable Mag Lite. It shows plenty bright for any task. When batteries are weaker it doesn’t automatically go into sos mode (very annoying). The batteries just slide down the barrel as opposed to being fitted into a chincey and stupidly designed cassett. When you put it down in the car or rv it won’t roll into a crack or between the seats somewhere! I appreciate a good invention as much as the next person but these new flashlights don’t seem to fit in that category in my opinion.
Fenix store camping flashlights are the best lights that are valued for the price, they also provide warranty services and responsive customer service. Lights are indeed durable, definitely made to last.
Hi Marcus,
Thanks for sharing that info! Maybe I’ll have to try one myself.
Mike