A good camping lantern is an outdoor essential. Its a major help while cooking, is great for nightly camp games, and sets just the right outdoor ambiance. Sure, you could just use a flashlight or headlamp, but a lantern lights up the entire camp and makes two-handed tasks easier.

　　While there isnt a single best camping lantern for everyone, we sure looked for one. Weve tested nearly 40 different light sources across half a decade of camping seasons to pull together a list of the most worthy light sources to bring on your next wilderness outing. Our choices have traveled with us from the dark deserts of Joshua Tree to the green tunnels of the Appalachian Trail, and we werent gentle, either.

　　During our testing, we charged up, gassed up, and lit up our campsites with lanterns — paying special mind to a number of different factors: light output, power supply, burn time, durability, and more. Below weve broken the list into handy categories to help you identify the best lantern for your use.

　　If youre totally in the dark about what youre looking for in a lantern, check out our buyer’s guide and FAQ section to better inform your decision. We’ve even thrown together a comparison chart to better guide your way through the night.

　　Editors Note: We updated our Camping Lantern guide on March 25, 2024 to add the Goal Zero Skylight — a 6,000-lumen bruiser that will cast light on any overlanding camp, as well as the Black Diamond Orbiter 650, a lantern that gave our best-overall winner a run for its money.

　　The Best Camping Lanterns of 2024 Best Overall Camping Lantern: BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern Best Budget Camping Lantern: Black Diamond Moji Lantern Best Solar Backpacking Lantern: Goal Zero Crush Light Best Candle Lantern: UCO Original Candle Lantern Best Lantern for Overlanding: Goal Zero Skylight Portable Area Light Best String Light: MPOWERD Luci String Lights + Power Hub Best Portable Gas Lantern: Snow Peak GigaPower Lantern Auto Best Overall Camping Lantern BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern Specs Lumens 500 lm max; 5 lm min Power Source 6,400 mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery Burn Time 200 hrs. on low; 5 hrs. on high Water Resistance IPX4 water resistant Weight 13.8 oz. USB Port Micro-USB in; USB-A out

　　

　　

　　Pros Ability to recharge electronics from the 6,400 mAh power bank Many different modes to choose from and suit the mood ChromaReal LED technology provides excellent full-spectrum light Cons Shake to change functionality isn’t the most intuitive, sometimes doesn’t register We wished all new rechargeable electronics would come standard with USB-C, but this does not Austin Beck-Doss BioLite didn’t miss when they brewed up the AlpenGlow 500 lantern ($80), a light that’s as versatile in the backcountry as it is for car camping. There’s little we could come up with that we would have done differently on this little lantern, which easily landed it the title of best overall.

　　Need a quick burst of white light? One tap. Feeling a little more natural? Tap again. A third tap brings the color, and a fourth ignites color-changing ChromaReal LEDs. BioLite also incorporated a number of secondary modes to each, giving you the ability to limit the light to only one side of the lantern or imitate a candle flicker.

　　There’s even a third press option triggered by a quick shake of the lantern. But while we do applaud BioLite for finding a unique way of integrating an accelerometer, in practice we found this to be a little hit-and-miss. Eventually, the lantern will catch on — it may just take an extra shake to get there.

　　On top of its impressive lighting capabilities (500 lumens is dang bright), the AlpenGlow 500 incorporates a number of features we’ve come to expect in a lantern, such as an integrated 6400 mAh power bank to charge your electronics. For those looking for all the same functions in a smaller package, there’s the AlpenGlow 250.

　　With ChromaReal LED tech baked in, this lantern puts out impressively natural-looking light, which we greatly appreciated. Anyone searching for an all-around powerhouse of a lantern would likely find it in the AlpenGlow.

　　Read Review: A Lantern That Puts Fun Over Firepower: BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern Review $80 at REI$80 at Amazon Best Budget Camping Lantern Black Diamond Moji Lantern Specs Lumens 200 lm max; 4 lm low Power Source Three AAA batteries, or a 1500 mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery Burn Time 70 hours on low Water Resistance IPX4 water resistant Weight 6 oz. USB Port N/A

　　

　　Pros Budget price wont hurt your wallet Can be powered by different batteries Compact form factor Cons Not the brightest lantern Wont last too long on the highest setting Austin Beck-Doss Recently updated, the Black Diamond Moji Lantern ($25) gained a number of upgrades that only further cements itself as our budget winner. Now with double the lumen output (a respectable 200), and the ability to be powered by AAA batteries or a rechargeable battery pack, this lantern does a lot in an even smaller package than before.

　　Weighing in at just 6 ounces and measuring 3 inches around, theres no reason not to bring it along just in case, especially at the price. The ability to run off of different types of batteries gives it an edge in emergencies, and the dimming switch allows you to make quick adjustments.

　　With a 200-lumen max, its not the brightest light on the list, but the Moji gets the job done. It not only stands up to rain but it also can be splashed from multiple angles and will keep on ticking with an IPX4 water-resistant rating.

　　Per the manufacturer, it lasts up to 70 hours on low. But dont expect to get that much out of a single battery supply, as youll surely want to use a higher setting in camp. If youre looking for some more flexibility in your lantern battery, consider the Moji R + Lantern ($45), an iteration that adds an integrated 1500 mAh battery and external micro-USB charge port. And if you really need some juice, the Moji Charging Station Lantern ($80) boasts both an internal battery pack and the ability to run off AA batteries as a backup.

　　This little lantern is our top pick for hanging in the tent. Its lowest 4-lumen setting makes a good nightlight, too. Whether backpacking, car camping, or looking for an ultra-packable emergency light, the BD Moji is a durable and useful bargain.

　　$25 at Black Diamond EquipmentCheck Price at Amazon Best Solar Backpacking Lantern Goal Zero Crush Specs Lumens 60 lm max; 6 lm low Power Source 500 mAh Li-Po rechargeable battery Burn Time 28 hours on low; 3 hours on high Water Resistance Unpublished Weight 3.2 oz. USB Port Micro-USB in

　　

　　Pros Very compact when collapsed down Can be recharged via USB or via the integrated solar panel Cons Max claimed run time didn’t quite meet our expectations in testing Austin Beck-Doss Looking for a packable solar light that wont break the bank? Then its time you met the Goal Zero Crush Light. At just 20 bucks, its a great value. The 60-lumen max output isnt wildly bright, but it offers a pleasant, useful glow around your camp.

　　It weighs 3.2 ounces and collapses neatly to take up very little space in your pack. And you can recharge via USB or simply set it outside and let the sun work its magic. It’s good to note that a smaller panel like the one on this lantern will take some time — an estimated 20 hours — to fully top off the light.

　　One of our favorite unexpected features? The candle flicker mode! Many lanterns these days are incorporating some type of ambiance setting, but only a few really hit the mark. We’re happy to report that the Crush made us believe during our testing.

　　It has a claimed max run time (on the lowest setting) of 35 hours, but the longest weve gotten is 28 hours. Its never been a problem camping, though, as we just set it out each day to top off the charge. The Crush Light is a solid solar light and a great choice for backpacking.

　　$16 at REI$16 at Amazon Best Candle Lantern UCO Original Candle Lantern Specs Lumens 20 lm max Power Source Candle Burn Time 9-12 hrs. Water Resistance N/A Weight 6.4 oz. USB Port N/A

　　

　　Pros Can add a little warmth to a chilly campout Natural candle-lit lighting Very easy to use, just light and go Cons Need to be mindful of spilling wax and hot glass No turning up this lantern, the light you get is what you get Austin Beck-Doss The little UCO Original Candle Lantern ($30) is a must-have for your emergency kit, bugout bag, or go-to camp kit. Its extremely easy to use — just slide the glass down and light the candle for instant light. The included reflector clip directs the light where you need it most.

　　A single candle burns for nearly 9 hours, and the spring-loaded system keeps the flame at a consistent height. It does get hot, so use caution when extinguishing or moving. It packs down to 4.25 inches long and weighs just 6.4 ounces.

　　The neoprene case keeps everything protected during transport and makes it a convenient addition to your camp kit. Weve used one exclusively at camp when desiring a classic, soft firelight. And its always in our chuck kit just in case.

　　Need a little longer burning light? UCO also sells natural beeswax candles that burn for an extended 12 hours. And for those buggy summer nights, there are even citronella candles that’ll keep the skeeters at bay.

　　Its also a top pick for emergency preparedness. Whether you live in a hurricane zone or have frequent blizzard-induced power outages, its a good idea to have a backup light available. The UCO Candle Lantern is an affordable, easy-to-use, reliable option for both camping and emergencies.

　　$30 at REI Best Lantern for Overlanding Goal Zero Skylight Specs Lumens 6000 lm max; 350 lm low Power Source 33 Wh Li-Ion rechargeable battery, solar panel Burn Time 8 hrs. on low; 1 hr. on high Water Resistance IPX4 water resistant Weight 12 lbs., 1.9 oz. USB Port N/A

　　

　　Pros Impressive durability, including the case Incredible operating time 150 feet of illumination in all directions Cons Life of the internal battery isnt great Austin Beck-Doss With up to 6,000 lumens (!) and casting light a full 150 feet in every direction, the Goal Zero Skylight Portable Area Light ($300) is a portable sun for your next overlanding, basecamp, or outdoor group shindig. Utilizing our typical go-to for lighting up large campsites, we’d need whole spools of string lights to accomplish the same lighted area, but the Skylight does it with ease.

　　The design of the Skylight borrows from the world of worksite lights but puts a much more user-friendly bent on it with a warmer light profile (3250K) that casts a cozy glow across your entire campsite. The six LED-studded petals atop the light are all individually adjustable as well, meaning you can direct light where you need it (or away from neighboring camps).

　　The whole apparatus is planted atop a 12’ telescoping pole that anchors itself securely with a broad tripod base. Being able to raise the light this high not only increases the spread but also keeps buzzing insects that might be attracted to it out of your orbit. During testing, even sandy soils that typically give camp chairs trouble weren’t an issue for the Skylight, which incorporates staking holes in each leg to secure it.

　　The Skylight does sport an internal battery (of 33 Wh, or ~8 hours on low), but was designed to ideally be run off of an external battery source, such as Goal Zero’s Yeti Power Stations, or from a 12V cigarette lighter plug. When powered by one of these large battery banks, run time increases tremendously, up to 375 hours on low with the Yeti 1500X.

　　Rounded out with four different lighting levels — including a ‘boost’ option — the Goal Zero Skylight has become standard issue on our overlanding excursions where we need light for a broad area in between vehicles. Complimented with a few close-quarters lanterns like the Black Diamond Moji or Goal Zero Crush, you’ve got a backcountry lighting system to rival many rock concerts. 

　　Read Review: Goal Zero Skylight Review: Bright, Durable, and Versatile Camp Light $240 at REI$240 at Amazon Best String Light MPOWERD Luci Solar String Lights + Power Hub Specs Lumens 140 lm max; 20 lm low Power Source 4000 mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery, solar panel Burn Time 40 hrs. on low; 8 hrs. on high Water Resistance IPX4 water resistant Weight 1 lb., 10.2 oz. USB Port USB-C in; USB-C and USB-A out

　　

　　Pros Ability to light up a broad area, focus on specific zones String lights store on the lantern, limiting tangles Detachable power hub powers your electronics with USB-A and USB-C ports Cons The solar panel is small, and the charging capacity is limited Take care not to snag the lights, the wiring can break Austin Beck-Doss The MPOWERD Luci String Lights + Power Hub ($70) have quickly become one of our favorite camping lights. Twenty individual light pods are spread across 44 feet of braided nylon cord, allowing you to light up a large area. It’s all the camp ambiance you need in a neat package.

　　We particularly like the way these lights store in themselves. Simply wrap the string lights into the solar base and twist closed. Pro tip from our testing: Be sure to avoid too many overlapping bulbs or it will become too bulky to close.

　　Because of its small form factor, the integrated solar panel does struggle a bit to charge the lantern from flat dead. It charges fully in about 3-5 hours via USB-C or 16 hours via solar, so we recommend charging it up prior to camping and then using solar to keep it topped off throughout.

　　We’ve used these string lights nearly every day for many months, and they’re still going strong. The color is a pleasing, natural warm light, and we’ve been impressed with how bright it gets on the highest setting. The Luci String Lights are a favorite option for adding a bit of camp ambiance or brightening up the backyard.

　　$70 at REI$56 at Amazon Best Portable Gas Lantern Snow Peak GigaPower Lantern Auto Specs Lumens ~400 lumens Power Source Isobutane Burn Time 5 hours on a 4 oz. fuel can Water Resistance N/A Weight 4.5 oz. USB Port N/A

　　

　　Pros Burns isobutane, which you may already have on hand from making dinner Pleasant and warm light output Piezo ignition makes lighting easy Cons Will need to be used with care, as the glass globe can break You may need an additional canister if you want to cook food and power the lantern Austin Beck-Doss The Snow Peak GigaPower ($80) is a little lantern that runs on isobutane (just like your favorite backpacking stove) and doesnt take up much room. It weighs in at just 4.6 ounces and measures about 3.75 inches around and is the perfect addition to your camp table come dinner time.

　　We found the light output particularly pleasant during our testing, yet plenty bright to complete all our camp chores. It has a max output of ~400 lumens and will run for about 5 hours in warm conditions. Similar to stoves, the run time decreases in colder weather. The benefit of running on stove fuel, however, is that you can use your depleted canisters that are too low to bring along for cooking. Genius!

　　The body of this lantern is machined aluminum, coupled with brass fittings that ensure a smooth attachment to a gas canister. The glass globe is held in place by a stainless steel cage and houses the lantern mantle that will be needed to illuminate this lantern. This takes a little finesse the first time, but once its in place the lifespan should be many nights before it needs replacement.

　　An added bonus? Since it’s burning fuel, this little lantern will give off a bit of hand-warming heat, perfect for when the chill sets in. Just remember to let it cool down before stowing — something we were (painfully) reminded of during our initial use.

　　It began raining while we were using this lantern, but it never went out or had any issues. Being made of glass, it is susceptible to breaking if dropped. But the included hard carrying case will keep it safe when packed. For a portable warm glow, the Snow Peak GigaPower Lantern is our top choice.

　　$80 at Backcountry$84 at Amazon Best of the Rest Black Diamond Orbiter 650 Lantern Specs Lumens 650 lm max; 25 lm low Power Source 5,200 mAh Li-Ion rechargeable battery Burn Time 240 hrs on low; 4 hrs on high Water Resistance IPX4 Weight 1 lb., 1.9 oz. UAB Port USB-C in; USB-C and USB-A out

　　

　　Pros Nice and bright at 650 lumens Multiple charge in and out options, with modern USB-C Can be hung or used on table-top Full spectrum color modes Cons 5200 mAh battery isnt as large as top-tier lanterns Bit heavy to hang from inside tents Austin Beck-Doss So bright you can see it from space — well, not quite, but at 650 lumens, the Black Diamond Orbiter 650 Lantern ($65) can still more than light up your next camp-out, and with a hefty amount of smart functionality on-board, this lantern absolutely impressed in our testing.

　　Looking like it’s liable to blast off of your camp table, the Orbiter lantern combines a number of different hanging and folding modes with six (!) different lighting settings, each of which is dimmable or color-changing. The folding leg design is reminiscent of the Goal Zero Lighthouse lantern, but better executed in our opinion, as it sports three legs to the two on the Lighthouse.

　　This design allows the lantern to be both propped up above cluttered picnic tables, as well as hung from above with the double-hook metal loops to attach to tent webbing loops or cordage around camp. An additional LED at the base of the lantern provides the illumination for this mode, and we found in our testing that it’s a targeted light that’s perfect for positioning over camp stoves or board games.

　　Moving through the lighting modes, the lantern offers up a bright white, bright white along with the additional downward spotlight, the spotlight on its own, a flickering campfire mode, solid colors, and a color cycling mode. It’s the most feature-packed lantern we’ve encountered to date with this many modes, and they all can be dimmed to as low as 25 lumens and cranked to as high as 650.

　　Rounding out the Black Diamond Orbiter 650 is a forward-thinking USB-C charge-in port (recharge occurs in about 3.5 hours), as well as not one, but two options to recharge other devices: a USB-A port, and a USB-C port. The 5200 mAh internal battery bank can be leveraged to recharge your electronics, and while it’s not quite as large as the 6400 mAh cell the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 sports, the additional charging options go well beyond that lantern.

　　$65 at REI$65 at Amazon BioLite AlpenGlow Mini Specs Lumens 150 lm max; 5 lm low Power Source 1,000 mAh rechargeable Li-ion Burn Time 40 hours on low; 5 hours on high Water Resistance IPX4 Weight 3.4 oz. USB Port USB-C in

　　

　　Pros Much of the same functionality of the larger 500 lantern in a compact size Bungee cord allows for multiple mounting options USB-C rechargeable Cons No reverse charging like the larger AlpenGlow lanterns Only runs on internal battery pack, not compatible with single use batteries Austin Beck-Doss With how much we enjoyed the AlpenGlow 500 Lantern, it was unsurprising how quickly we took to the new BioLite AlpenGlow Mini Lantern ($40), a diminutive counterpart that takes much of the camp-friendly functionality that won the best overall lantern designation, and shrinks it down into a totally backpackable size.

　　A good backpacking lantern is something that every camper should have in their arsenal. The most obvious competition for this petite model is the Black Diamond Moji Lantern, our top pick for a budget option, and also an impressive mini lantern in its own right. Both the Moji and the AlpenGlow Mini make strong cases as the best backpacking lantern to chuck in your pack, but a few key differences will decide which one you ultimately go with.

　　First, lets talk about brightness. There isnt much of a difference between the two lanterns, but the Moji does edge out the Mini with 200 overall lumens, versus the 150 of the BioLite. Neither of these lanterns is impressively bright but instead, excel in tent interiors where not much light is needed anyway. Burn time also leans toward the Moji, with a marathon time of 70 hours on low, compared to 40 hours from the AlpenGlow.

　　The scales really start to even out when it comes to functionality. The AlpenGlow Mini sports four different light modes — warm white, one-color cycling, single-color static, and a party-worthy Horizon mode that changes color — compared to the single white of the Black Diamond. These different modes really open up options for setting your campsite mood, and we loved dialing it in for what we had going on.

　　Mounting options, too, are better on the AlpenGlow Mini, which uses a bungee cord system that is much more amenable to attaching to limbs, tent poles, and interior hang loops compared to the hard double-hooks on the Moji. And finally, we swooned over the addition of USB-C charging in this little lantern, something that the Moji and even the larger AlpenGlow 500 lantern lacks.

　　Need no-nonsense light in a packable size? The Black Diamond Moji is likely your lantern. For reference, the Moji is the lantern that Senior Editor Nick Belcaster equipped seven teams of Denali guides to head out into a month at the top of a continent with. But if fun is also on the agenda, its nigh impossible to argue against the BioLite AlpenGlow Mini, a lantern that offers four different lighting modes, a better hanging system, and quick USB-C charging.

　　$40 at REI$40 at Amazon Fenix CL30R Specs Lumens 650 lm max; 10 lm min Power Source Three 2600 mAh 18650 cells Burn Time 300 hours on eco; 4 hours 30 minutes on turbo Water Resistance IPX7 waterproof Weight 14.5 oz. USB Port Micro-USB in; USB-A out

　　

　　Pros Versatile battery source Ability to charge external electronics Very tough design Hang loop and tripod socket Cons Heavier than many similar lanterns Austin Beck-Doss It’s not often we take the kid gloves entirely off when dealing with camp lanterns, but the burly construction of the Fenix CL30R ($144) made it clear that it required no such special treatment. This is one tough and versatile lantern.

　　Built with a confidence-inspiring design, this lantern pumps out an impressive 650 lumens on turbo mode and is able to dial it back to 10 lumens when you want to enjoy the full 300-hour long burn time. It also makes use of an intelligent memory circuit, meaning the lantern will return to the previous setting last used. Smart.

　　When the time came to test this lantern, we were impressed by just how versatile it was when it came to power supply, and this was one of our favorite features about it. Using rechargeable (and replaceable) 18650 Li-ion batteries, this lantern becomes cross-compatible with our other 18650 powered electronics, and it can run on one, two, or all three cells. There’s even an option to replace the included cells with more powerful 3,500 mAh versions for even more juice.

　　Need to power up your other electronics? At the rear of the lantern is a charging and mini-USB discharging port — all covered by a rubber gasket. At a total capacity of 7,800 mAh (with the ability to expand to 10,500), this lantern can certainly charge most modern phones to full from dead flat. The battery compartment is sealed with a replaceable O-ring, which aids in making the light IPX7 water-resistant and is one of the highest ratings of any lantern we’ve tested. That means you could submerge this lantern 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes!

　　Rounding out this versatile lantern from Fenix is both a bail handle for hanging, as well as a tripod socket for really spreading those lumens. For a tough and long-lasting lantern thatll handle it all, you’d be hard-pressed to go wrong with the Fenix CL30R.

　　$110 at Fenix Lighting$110 at Amazon Coast EAL22 Lantern Specs Lumens 1,250 lm max; 77 lm min. Power Source 3x D batteries, or 8,800 mAh Li-ion ZITHION-X battery pack Burn Time 225 hrs. on low; 7.5 hrs. on high Water Resistance IP54 waterproof Weight 2 lbs., 8.5 oz. USB Port N/A

　　

　　Pros Emergency-ready light source Blindingly bright high-mode Tough exterior build Multiple power source options Cons ZITHION battery pack required to hit full output numbers A little on the heavier side Austin Beck-Doss Talk about beam for your buck — the Coast EAL22 Lantern ($40) cranks up the lumens to a blistering 1,250 on high and does it while sliding in as one of the cheaper lanterns in our lineup. The lantern is styled as more of an emergency light source, but there’s nothing holding it back from illuminating your next camping trip.

　　The lantern lives up to the tough reputation that Coast has garnered for itself and is made from a bash-resistant nylon shell and polycarbonate diffuser that even after accidentally knocking off a camp table, we couldn’t ding. 

　　The run time of 225 hours is on the endurance side of the spectrum, with only the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 and Fenix CL30R besting it in total burn time. The five lighting modes begin with a soft white light that is perfect for gathering around for a card game, then pivots to a set of brighter white modes for really illuminating a campsite or outdoor kitchen. The final two modes are red and include a flashing option should you need to hail anyone or warn oncoming traffic.

　　Mounting options are also packed in, with two carabiner-style hanging hooks on top and bottom of the lantern, as well as a bail handle for walking around with. This flexibility even extends to the powering options on the EAL22, as it is a dual-power lantern that can run off of D-cell batteries or a separate battery pack.

　　The ZITHION-X rechargeable battery pack is nigh-essential in our tester’s opinion, which does take a bit of the budget along with it as it costs as much as the lantern itself. You certainly can make do with D-cell batteries, but the ability to recharge other electronics with the lantern is a handy feature we wouldn’t want to leave home without.

　　Made to be stormproof, we didn’t fret over leaving the Coast EAL22 out on the picnic table in an overnight shower. This design is a great option for those who are looking for a rough-and-tumble style lantern.

　　$30 at REI$42 at Amazon Ledlenser ML6 Lantern Specs Lumens 750 lm max; 5 lm min Power Source 3000 mAh Li-ion 18650 rechargeable cell Burn Time 70 hours on low; 4 hours on high Water Resistance IP54 waterproof Weight 9.9 oz. USB Port Micro-USB in; USB-A out

　　

　　Pros Utilizes universal 18650 rechargeable battery Impressively durable design Ability to recharge electronics Cons On the pricier end for a lantern Upper rubber loop can come off entirely Austin Beck-Doss Do you need a pint-sized lantern that packs a big punch? The Ledlenser ML6 ($90) is just the thing you need. Weve been testing this packable light for over a year, and it has continually impressed.

　　At 7.8 inches tall, it easily fits in the palm of your hand. And it can pump out a powerful 750 lumens. That level of light is great for precise tasks, but generally, we use it at a much lower light level. This means your battery will last much longer.

　　The ML6 charges quickly via USB. It takes about 5 hours to recharge, and we get a solid weekend of camping on a single charge.

　　We also really like the varied options for hanging this lantern. You can choose from a metal hook on the bottom base plate, or use the malleable rubber loop on top.

　　That rubber top loop can come undone, which is nice for easily hanging it on a branch or rope. But since it can become removed completely, beware of misplacing it.

　　Lastly, the ML6 earns top marks for durability. One of our testers toddlers is very fond of this light and has repeatedly dropped it. Despite this rough handling, it still shines brightly and functions perfectly.

　　At 90 bucks, its not the cheapest option around. But, if youre looking for a bright, portable, long-lasting lantern, this is a winner.

　　$63 at REI$77 at Amazon Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 Lantern Specs Lumens 600 lm max Power Source 5,200 mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery Burn Time 320 hours on low; 2.5 hours on high Water Resistance Unpublished Weight 1 lb., 1.6 oz. USB Port USB-A in; USB-A out

　　

　　Pros Unique crank ability provides unlimited power supply Simultaneous recharge and discharge means you can provide light while charging Cons The permanently attached USB cord seems like a failure point Wire legs are a bit wobbly Austin Beck-Doss Leave it to solar-power guru Goal Zero to come up with a lantern that incorporates a number of smart charge and recharge features that turn the Lighthouse 600 lantern ($70) into a light source you can trust to stay on when you need it.

　　With three methods of charging the lantern (solar panel, USB, or spinning the crank atop the unit) we never felt we’d see the flicker of this lantern running out of juice. It makes an excellent basecamp lantern, perched above a table or hung from the inside of a tent.

　　While the integrated charging USB cord is a handy touch, we do see this as a potential future failure point should the cable become snagged or kinked. A simple USB port with a cover would have been our preference.

　　Unlike some of the other lanterns on our list, the Lighthouse 600 doesn’t use an integrated solar panel to recharge from the sun. This means you’ll either need to already own a Goal Zero solar panel or purchase one like the Nomad 10. For those who use a panel regularly, the Lighthouse will be an obvious companion.

　　Ready for whatever, the Lighthouse 600 would make a great lantern for anyone who wants an all-in-one system for light and charging ability.

　　$56 at REI$56 at Amazon Coleman Deluxe Propane Lantern With Hardshell Case Specs Lumens 1,000 lm max Power Source Propane Burn Time 13 hours on low Water Resistance N/A Weight 3 lbs., 11 oz. USB Port N/A

　　

　　Pros Classic styling and natural lighting Broad footed base limits risk of tipping Convenient carrying case Cons Requires consumable propane, which can add up Glass lens can become hot during use Austin Beck-Doss No lantern review would be complete without this classic Coleman Deluxe Propane Lantern ($65). If youve never used a gas lantern, its important to make note of a few things. First, in lieu of light bulbs, it uses mantles that fill with fuel and burn brightly. The glass can become extremely hot, and caution should be used when handling it.

　　That said, its a solid lantern that will last for years. And it clocks in at just $65. The dual-mantle design pumps out 1,000 lumens on high, and it will run for nearly 7.5 hours on high before needing a new fuel canister. The green propane cylinders run about $10 for a single 1-pound canister. While this isnt outrageously expensive, it does add up and should be a consideration when lantern shopping.

　　We found it easy to thread the light onto the propane cylinder and appreciated the footed base that prevents tipping. Its worth noting that you will need a match to light this lantern. And when its time to pack up camp, the Coleman Deluxe tucks away into its hardshell carrying case, ready for the next adventure.

　　$65 at REI$45 at Amazon Solight SolarPuff Lantern Specs Lumens 90 lm max; 45 lm min Power Source 1,200 mAh Li-Po rechargeable battery Burn Time 12 hours on low Water Resistance IP68 waterproof Weight 2.6 oz. USB Port N/A

　　

　　Pros Incredible portability and ultralight weight Requires no inflation to expand Cons Limited battery life Not the brightest lantern Austin Beck-Doss The Solight SolarPuff Lantern ($32) unfolds with the grace of an origami swan, going from a compact flat to a 4-inch lighted cube — all without the need of inflating it. Made of PET sailcloth, this light pops open and provides either a bright, warm, or multi-colored light.

　　We first saw the SolarPuff lantern riding on the outside of the pack of a PCT thru-hiker, who found the collapsible lantern to be a perfect luxury item. The integrated solar panel charges the lantern while you hike and puts out a purported 12 hours of light on its low setting (with the sun shining).

　　Newly updated, Solight added a Dusk to Dawn light sensor, which can turn on the lantern by itself as the stars come out and turn back off as the sun comes up — a feature we very much enjoyed.

　　You likely wont want to make the SolarPuff your only light source, as even at max output it only manages 90 lumens. But as a go-anywhere lantern with a small footprint, the SolarPuff Lantern is an easy choice.

　　$30 at Amazon Camping Lantern Comparison Chart

Camping Lantern	Price	Lumens	Burn Time	Water Resistance	Weight
BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern	$80	500 lm max; 5 lm min	200 hours on low; 5 hours on high	IPX4 water resistant	13.8 oz.
Black Diamond Moji Lantern	$25	200 lm max; 4 lm low	70 hours on low	IPX4 water resistant	6 oz.
Goal Zero Crush	$20	60 lm max; 6 lm low	28 hours on low; 3 hours on high	Unpublished	3.2 oz.
UCO Original Candle Lantern	$26	20 lm max	9-12 hrs.	N/A	6.4 oz.
Goal Zero Skylight Portable Area Light	$300	6000 lm max; 350 lm low	8 hrs. on low; 1 hr. on high	IPX4 water resistant	12 lbs., 1.9 oz.
MPOWERD Luci Solar String Lights + Power Hub	$70	140 lm max; 20 lm low	40 hours on low; 8 hours on high	IPX4 water resistant	1 lb., 10.2 oz.
Snow Peak GigaPower Lantern Auto	$80	~400 lumens	5 hours on a 4 oz. fuel can	N/A	4.5 oz.
Black Diamond Orbiter 650 Lantern	$65	650 lm max; 25 lm low	240 hrs on low; 4 hrs on high	IPX4	1 lb., 1.9 oz.
BioLite AlpenGlow Mini	$40	150 lm max; 5 lm min	40 hours on low; 5 hours on high	IPX4	3.4 oz.
Fenix CL30R	$144	650 lm max; 10 lm min	300 hours on eco; 4.5 hours on turbo	IPX7 waterproof	14.5 oz.
Coast EAL22 Lantern	$40	1250 lm max; 77 lm min	225 hours on low; 7.5 hours on high	IP54 waterproof	2 lbs., 8.5 oz.
Ledlenser ML6 Lantern	$90	750 lm max; 5 lm min	70 hours on low; 4 hours on high	IP54 waterproof	9.9 oz.
Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 Lantern	$70	600 lm max	320 hours on low; 2.5 hours on high	Unpublished	1 lb., 1.6 oz.
Coleman Deluxe Propane Lantern	$65	1,000 lm max	13 hours on low	N/A	3 lbs., 11 oz.
Solight SolarPuff Lantern	$32	90 lm max; 45 lm min	12 hours on low	IP68 waterproof	2.6 oz.

How We Tested Camping Lanterns While putting this list together, our lead tester Austin Beck-Doss was living off-grid and relying on a lantern every single night. Adding to the tester pool is Senior Editor Nick Belcaster, who has spent months at a time outdoors where having the proper illumination is key. To determine the best of the best, these lanterns underwent months of testing and thousands of light hours logged. Since 2020, our experts have personally handled nearly 45 different lanterns and put them to the test.

　　The lanterns featured here are the top picks that will stand up to constant use and abuse, from the rigors of packing and unpacking to the perils of rolling around in the back of a car. While testing, we paid particular attention to light output, battery life, and ease of use. We also kept an eye on durability, packability, and overall value.

　　We didnt use the kid gloves on these lanterns either, as our testing often incorporated the garden hose if actual showers failed to materialize. We took great joy in accidentally knocking these lanterns from the safety of picnic tables to see how they fared. Not every light source lived to tell the tale, but the ones that did can be found on this list.

　　Outdoor lighting technology is always advancing. Not too many years ago the best you could buy were propane lanterns that, while a classic look, brought along with them some classic issues. Today, most all lanterns depend upon battery power for illumination, with improvements in lithium-polymer and lithium-ion batteries greatly extending burn times. Light element tech has also taken off, with smart LEDs that can change temperature and even color now the standard.

　　As the tech behind camping lanterns changes, our testing will follow the trends, bringing the best of the best lanterns into the fold.

　　

　　While gas lanterns give off a classic warm light, many modern electric lanterns are getting pretty good at emulating that light; (photo/Nick Belcaster) Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Camp Lantern Electric vs. Gas-Powered Lanterns Choosing between an electric and a gas-powered lantern comes down to what features you prefer. Electric lanterns are quiet, lightweight, and safe to use inside a tent.

　　However, alkaline batteries lose about half their capacity when temperatures drop below freezing, and rechargeable batteries may not last on multi-day trips without a recharge.

　　Gas-powered lanterns like the Snow Peak GigaPower Lantern Auto are bright, have a long burn time, and work well in sub-freezing temperatures (the runtime drops, but not as much as when using alkaline batteries). Because they use a live flame, they are hot to the touch, need to be used away from flammable materials, and require ventilation. They are also more fragile than electric lanterns.

　　Lumens and Light Modes

　　

　　The 6,000 lumens of the Goal Zero Skylight was made to do one thing, and thats throw light far; (photo/Nick LeFort) Lanterns need to be bright enough to light up an area, but not so striking that they’ll temporarily blind you if you accidentally look at them. Brightness is measured in lumens, and while you probably wont need a lantern to mimic the sun (35.73 octillion lumens, by the way), most lanterns have a maximum lumen output somewhere between 200 and 500 lumens. This is more than enough to light up most camping spaces, and most often is dimmable to adjust to ambient light.

　　If you’re looking for a more pleasant glow, aim for an output of 60 to 100 lumens. Lanterns like the Solight SolarPuff Lantern or the Black Diamond Moji Lantern work well for use inside a tent. Also, know that diffusion is key in how light is displayed around camp, and that translucent globes will provide a softer, more diluted light thats easier on the eyes. Lanterns like the BioLite AlpenGlow and Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 might be able to put out the same 500 lumens, but the AlpenGlow will be much nicer to look at in intimate settings.

　　Light Modes Thankfully, weve come a long way from the simple ON/OFF button, and camping lanterns today feature many additional lighting settings for fine-tuning your lighting solution. Dimmability is one of the most important functions in our opinion, as it allows you to dial in the light output in a set range. Camping lanterns today have broad dimming ranges, with many being able to reduce down to single-digit lumens and then ramp up to full power, or even a turbo mode such as in the Fenix CL30R.

　　Some, like the Solight SolarPuff Lantern, are fairly minimal with only three different light settings: low, high, and flashing. Others jam in different modes to amp up the ambiance at camp and lend some light to whatever mood youre going for. The BioLite AlpenGlow500 has four main modes (white light, warm light, color light, and multi-color light) which can be further augmented with a few shakes to add single-side lighting, flickering, and even a fireworks light show effect.

　　Other lanterns still, like the Ledlenser ML6, will offer a red light option, which can be very helpful when aiming to maintain your night vision (or avoid waking your tent-mate). This lantern also will flash an SOS signal for emergency situations, as well as a strobe thats meant for self-defense.

　　

　　Ounces matter on the Alaskan tundra, and a lightweight but powerful lantern like the Black Diamond Moji is just the ticket; (photo/Nick Belcaster) LED vs. Incandescent Lanterns of old all utilized incandescent bulbs to provide their light, but these have largely gone away in favor of LEDs. Light-emitting diodes are far more energy efficient — often more than 75% — and have a lifespan that exceeds the wire filaments of incandescent bulbs.

　　Another benefit of LEDs is they have a high Color Rendering Index (CRI) level, a measurement of how natural colors render in certain light. Lanterns like the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern boast a CRI of 90 and produce high-quality color lighting.

　　One downside, however, is that LEDs are typically not user replaceable. Thankfully, the lifespan of an LED is often given in years, not months, so barring a faulty light, you should never run into the issue.

　　Weight and Packed Size

　　

　　At only 2.6 ounces and packing as small as a CD case (remember those?), the Solight SolarPuff takes the prize as the most ultralight; (photo/Nick Belcaster) Consider how you will use your lantern. For car camping, weight and packed size are not going to be an issue. If you plan on packing your lantern into the woods, however, you’re going to want something lighter that won’t take up much pack space. If you’re going backpacking, look for a small or collapsible lantern. A good flashlight or a headlamp may even be in order.

　　Camping Lanterns Lanterns like the BioLite AlpenGlow 500, Black Diamond Orbiter 650, and Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 are all at the top of our list of the best lanterns to take on camping trips. They all sport an extended battery life, broad light cast, and mounting solutions that make them amenable to different camp setups. These lanterns all hover around the 1-pound mark, and while they arent the most packable, typically folks going camping need only worry about over-filling the back of the car.

　　There are also a number of fun lighting options, like the MPOWERD Luci String Lights, which can be strung up and really spread some light, or the Goal Zero Skylight, which will illuminate your whole campsite (and then some). Consider a mix of both types of lighting to cover both your flood and spot light needs.

　　Backpacking Lanterns When looking for a lantern to take backpacking, were quick to reach for the Black Diamond Moji, Solight SolarPuff, or the Goal Zero Crush. The two collapsible options are excellent for long-distance trips where weight really matters, and the Moji is our top pick for a light source thatll last a while and still maintain a small profile.

　　Dont count out candle or isobutane-powered lanterns on your backpacking excursions, either. Both the UCO Candle Lantern and Snow Peak GigaPower lanterns are minimal enough to not be a boat anchor in your pack, and operate with fuels youre likely already bringing along. Weve often enjoyed the natural flicker of a flame over an LED when deep in the backcountry, and these lanterns easily make the cut in our packing lists.

　　Battery Life and Types

　　

　　Recharging the BioLite AlpenGlow is a cinch, and fully tops off at around 3 hours on the cord; (photo/Nick Belcaster) If you’re going with an electric lantern, battery life is a consideration, especially if you’re going to be in the woods for a few days or more. Many lanterns will give you 5-10 hours on high, with longer times in the lower settings. Among the longest-lasting lanterns in our testing were the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern at 200 hours on low, the Fenix CL30R at 300 hours, and the Goal Zero Lighthouse600 Lantern at an impressive 320 total hours of burn time.

　　Lanterns that take disposable batteries will typically accept either alkaline or lithium-style batteries, though it can be good to know when each is warranted. Alkaline batteries are standard as household batteries, and are generally cheaper than lithium batteries. They wont last quite as long, and will lose voltage as they discharge, meaning a dimmer lantern. Lithium batteries, on the other hand, maintain their voltage until almost dead, are better in the cold, and last up to two to three times as long as alkaline batteries. They also are rechargeable in wall-outlet chargers.

　　

　　With an integrated 5200 mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery, the GoalZero Lighthouse 600 lantern is able to both charge your devices, and itself with an integrated hand crank; (photo/Nick Belcaster) It pays to carry extra batteries on your trip if your lantern uses disposable batteries. If you have a rechargeable battery, bring along a portable battery bank or solar charger to top off your lanterns between uses. Some lanterns even incorporate a charging system into the light itself, such as a solar panel, or hand crank. It is good to note that lanterns with rechargeable batteries are becoming more and more commonplace, though it should be remembered that recharging a lantern from dead flat will take considerably longer than just swapping in some fresh AAAs.

　　Consider also the type of rechargeable battery your lantern uses. Some, like the Ledlenser ML6 Lantern, use a standardized rechargeable 18650 cell that can be used in other electronics, such as headlamps. Most others will be integrated into the lantern, and are non-serviceable.

　　Ease of Use

　　

　　The easy hang loop of the Ledlenser ML6 made it very popular with our hammock-savvy testers; (photo/Nick Belcaster) For the most part, electric lanterns win the prize for ease of use. They turn on with the push of a button and the brightness is simple to adjust. Gas-powered lanterns require a bit more work with applying the fuel canister and lighting the wick.

　　With advances in lantern tech, and more features being added every year, be sure to look for a lantern that hasn’t suffered from tech bloat. The pattern of button presses to move through the different lighting cycles should be easy to remember.

　　One tech advance that we are on board with is the adoption of USB-C in charging cables. Micro USB is still abundant on many consumer electronics, but a look to the future sees USB-C becoming the new standard. Of the lanterns we reviewed, only the MPOWERD Luci Solar String Lights + Power Hub support USB-C at this time.

　　Durability Water Resistance

　　

　　The IPX7 water resistance rating of the Fenix CL30R makes it one of the toughest lanterns in our review; (photo/Nick Belcaster) We wont lie — there have certainly been times when weve left our camping lanterns out overnight and woken to a soggy light. Thats why investing in a lantern with a high degree of durability will pay out in the long run.

　　First, consider that many gas lanterns will still require the use of a glass lens to operate. Obviously, these will require some more care, and we recommend utilizing a carrying case for transporting them around. The mantles that are used to contain the flame are also fragile, so be mindful of these as well.

　　When it comes to electric lanterns, many will incorporate some type of rubberized over-molding to guard against bumps and bruises around camp. And in terms of water resistance, many lanterns today will be built to resist splashes or brief immersions in water. These are often rated using the Ingress Protection testing standard, which measures both resistance to dust and water. A rating of IPX7, for example, relays a resistance to water immersion up to 1 meter deep.

　　Extra Features

　　

　　Chock-full of extra features, the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 offers white, natural, and multi-colored options for its light; (photo/Nick Belcaster) Many of the best camping lanterns offer additional features, such as the ability to charge your electronic devices and double as a flashlight. These are perks but aren’t real game-changers when choosing a lantern.

　　The most important features that we’ve found are ones that enhance the lantern’s main function. Look for lanterns that are water- and dustproof, ones with multiple dimming settings and integrated solar chargers.

　　Hang Loops, Clips, and Hooks Being able to hang your lantern from the inside of your tent or from a well-placed tree limb can greatly increase the amount of light it can cast on your camp setup. Look for a lantern that sports some type of hook or loop that will allow you to suspend it from above and make the most of your light. The Ledlenser ML6 is particularly adept at mounting solutions, with a rubber loop for hanging at the top, a metal hook beneath the broad base, and a magnetic bottom for mounting on metal surfaces.

　　Battery Banks and Solar Panels Because many lanterns today utilize an integrated rechargeable battery pack, they are able to also be used to recharge your electronics on the go. Just how much power youll be able to port around will depend on the lantern, but weve found that the larger lanterns are able to juice up a modern phone most of the way to a full charge. Remember to pack an appropriate charging cable.

　　The addition of a solar panel can theoretically extend your lantern time to infinite, though it is important to note that on lanterns that sport them, like the Goal Zero Crush Light or MPOWERD Luci String Lights, the panels are typically quite small, and thus will take an extended period of sunlight to fully recharge. This is easier to accomplish when youre hiking into your camp spot but is better thought of as a nice boost to your lanterns battery, versus a true recharging technique.

　　FAQ What is the best camping lantern? The best camping lantern is the one best designed for how you plan to use it. Look for a lantern that’s bright enough to illuminate your camping space and one that is simple enough to use after a long day of hiking. For 2024, we found the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern to fit the bill for most of our camping outings.

　　For backpackers, a lightweight lantern that doesn’t take up too much pack space is ideal. Also, an electric lantern should be able to give you several evenings of light without requiring a recharge.

　　

　　In our testing, the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 best ticked our boxes for the best overall lantern; (photo/Nick Belcaster) How many lumens do I need for a camping lantern? For most campers, 100 lumens or above is enough to light up many camp spaces. If you prefer a more gentle glow, 50-75 lumens will be enough. Electric lanterns under 50 lumens are good for in-tent use.

　　What is the best camping lantern for power outages? For occasional use, a brighter lantern with replaceable batteries will work well. Replaceable batteries are ideal for situations in which an external charging source is unavailable. Candle lanterns will also work well, as they don’t require any fuel besides the candle.

　　What is the best camping lantern from Coleman? We’re fans of the classic Coleman Lantern. For $65, Coleman has made a solid lantern that will give you years of use. It produces 1,000 lumens on high, and it will run for 7 hours on high before you need to switch propane canisters.

　　What is a lantern mantle? Lantern mantles are ceramic mesh sacks that encase the flame in gas-powered lanterns. They keep the flame small and contained inside the lamp.

　　How long do lantern mantles last? If you take care of it, a lantern mantle can last years. You can lengthen the life of the mantle by not dropping or shaking your lantern excessively and by not exposing it to strong wind without the globe attached.

　　

　　Camping Checklist: Essential Camp Gear to Bring What should you bring camping? Our camping gear checklist has you covered.

　　

　　The Best Camping Tents of 2024 Make the most of your home away from home by choosing the best camping tent for your adventure. We found the top car camping and family camping tents for every budget and use.