Go to Section: Tents Types | Campervans | Camping Bedding | Camping Lighting | Camping Equipment Checklist
Torches
A torch is an essential item for camping and you need one you can rely on, whatever the size, shape or style. You can get anything from a keychain or pocket sized 'Maglite' to a large hand held spot light. Ensure that you always carry enough batteries with you and for the smaller, more fragile models, perhaps a spare bulb. If you are worried about batteries not lasting, there are models which you can recharge or simply wind up.
LEDs<span>
If you are buying a new torch or headlamp, consider one with LED bulbs as high-intensity LEDs offer several advantages over conventional light bulbs:
- With LEDs, batteries can last many times longer.
- LEDs are long lasting, much less likely to burn out and are extremely shock-resistant.
- The brightness of LEDs fades gradually as do not emit all of their maximum light over their battery’s life as conventional bulbs tend to.
- Despite being more expensive than conventional bulb lights, LEDs offer great long term value, saving on both replacement batteries and bulbs
- LEDs emit a blue-white light which can seem colder than the warm yellow light of regular bulbs. This is however closer to natural daylight and is easy to get used to.
<span>Headlamps
A torch headlight attached to an elastic headband, providing hands free lighting when worn. Headlamps are lightweight and compact and take away the effort of holding that torch when reading in the dark or venturing out of the tent for that late night toilet trip.
Lanterns
There are a huge range of lanterns on the market of varying price and quality. The choice is mainly between electric, fuel, or candle powered which all have certain benefits and downfalls.
Electric Lanterns
Electric lanterns are a good idea if you want to use the lantern inside the tent or using it around children as there will not be the fire risk that you may have with the other two types.
Florescent light bulbs provide brighter light and often these lanterns have two settings so you are able to conserve energy by only using one bulb.
If using a battery powered lantern ensure you take sufficient spare batteries or if using a rechargeable lantern take the equipment you need to keep it charged.
Fuel Lanterns
The more traditional fuel powered lanterns save the hassle of carrying around spare batteries and can be more economical if you are already carrying fuel for your cooking stove.
Some lanterns burn only a specific fuel: propane, butane, kerosene, so ensure you have the supply you need for the duration of your trip.
Fuel lanterns should not be used inside but if necessary be aware of the fire risk and ensure there is sufficient ventilation.
Candle Lanterns
Candle lanterns are great if your batteries or fuel are running low or you want to conserve them.
Using candles saves having to carry around messy fuels and can be more economical. Hanging a small candle lantern from a branch above your site can provide a good source of light but be very careful where you place it and that you keep an eye on it.
It is not advisable that candle lanterns are used inside the tent but if you find yourself in a situation where it is your only source of light; ensure you are careful where you position it.
Candle safety
Candle lanterns or just plain candles are invaluable to have as an emergency light source. Always consider these candle safety factors
- Never leave lit candle lanterns or candles unattended in a tent.
- Always ensure candles are put out properly when you go to sleep.
- Consider using a battery-operated lantern for children or ensure they are always supervised around lit candles.
- If using a candle lantern inside a tent, suspend it so it is kept away from any fabric.
- Make sure you ventilate properly as lanterns consume oxygen.
- Be aware of candle lanterns in the wind, that nothing is blown onto the flame.
Glow sticks/Light sticks
Light sticks are clear plastic sticks containing chemicals that, when mixed together, produce a bright, sometimes coloured light. These are a great, safe alternative to candles. Non-toxic and non-flammable they are ideal for kids to have in the tent. They are durable, can handle extreme cold and are unaffected by wind or rain.