[Gear Pro]

I’ve rounded up my favorite camping lanterns and will give you some quick mini reviews. After that, I’ll walk you through the key things I think are important to keep in mind when picking the perfect lantern for your needs. I’d love to hear which one is your go-to and why!

Top 3 Camping Lanterns

• Coleman Multi-Panel Rechargeable LED Lantern (4 Panel)
• Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 Multi Functional Adjustable Light
• Coleman Premium Dual Fuel Lantern with Carry Case

[Gear Pro]

Coleman Multi-Panel Rechargeable LED Lantern (4 Panel)

The Coleman Multi-Panel Rechargeable LED Lantern (4 Panel) is a camping game-changer, and after using it on a few of my recent outdoor adventures, I can honestly say it’s one of the most versatile camping lanterns I’ve come across. What initially drew me to it was the convenience of having four detachable panels. This feature came in handy when I was setting up camp after dark. Instead of fumbling around with one big lantern, I could pull off a panel and place it wherever I needed extra light. It’s like having four mini lanterns in one, which is a huge bonus when you’re trying to manage multiple tasks at once in the great outdoors.

The rechargeable feature was another win for me. I’ve used battery-powered lanterns before, and I always seem to forget extra batteries or they run out when I need them most. With this Coleman lantern, I just recharge it before my trip, and I’m good to go. Plus, it holds a charge really well. I went on a three-day camping trip, and we never once had to recharge it. Each panel has its own rechargeable battery, so even if the main base runs low, the panels stay powered up.

Now, let’s talk about brightness—because that’s where this lantern really shines (pun intended). This lantern lights up the entire campsite with ease. I had no trouble cooking, reading, or just enjoying some late-night card games under its glow. You can even adjust the brightness, which I found super useful. When I just needed a bit of light to find my way back to the tent, I’d switch it to a lower setting and save battery life.

It’s also surprisingly durable. I accidentally knocked it over while packing up in a hurry, and it took the hit like a champ—no cracks, no malfunction. The rugged design makes me feel confident that this lantern will last through many more trips.

The only downside? It’s a bit bulkier than some other camping lanterns, so if you’re a minimalist camper or tight on packing space, that might be something to consider. However, for the extra functionality and light output, I think it’s a worthy trade-off. I also love that it doubles as a power bank, letting me charge my phone when needed. In today’s world, that’s almost a necessity, even when you’re trying to “unplug” in nature!

Overall, the Coleman Multi-Panel Rechargeable LED Lantern is now a go-to for my camping trips. Whether you’re solo camping or out with a group, its flexibility, brightness, and rechargeable convenience make it one of the best camping lanterns out there. If you’re in the market for a reliable, multi-use light source, this lantern should definitely be on your list.

[Gear Pro]

Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 Multi Functional Adjustable Light

The Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 is one of those camping lanterns that you don’t fully appreciate until you’re out in the wilderness and realize just how versatile it really is. I’ve had it on a couple of camping trips now, and it has quickly become a reliable companion. What really stands out to me is its adjustability—whether I needed full 360-degree light to illuminate the whole campsite or a more focused, dimmer light for hanging out by the fire, the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 could do it all.

Let me start with the brightness. At full power, this thing really packs a punch, delivering up to 600 lumens. That was more than enough to light up our entire tent area and cooking station. But what I love most is how adjustable it is. You can switch it to 180-degree mode if you only need light on one side, which also helps conserve battery life. It’s a small feature, but when you’re trying to stretch power over multiple days, it’s a game-changer.

Speaking of battery life, that’s where the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 really shines. It’s equipped with a built-in rechargeable battery, and I was seriously impressed with how long it lasted. Even after using it at full brightness for a few hours each night, it still had plenty of juice left by the end of our weekend trip. And if you’re in a pinch, it has a hand crank for emergency power. I can’t tell you how reassuring that is when you’re deep in the woods with no outlets in sight.

Another thing that makes this lantern stand out is that it doubles as a power bank. I’ve used it to charge my phone when I needed to check maps or just snap some photos, and it worked like a charm. It’s not the fastest charge, but it’s enough to get you through the day, which can be a lifesaver when you’re off-grid.

The design is also worth mentioning. It’s lightweight but sturdy, with foldable legs that make it easy to prop up on uneven ground or hang from a tree branch. And it doesn’t take up much room in my pack, which is always a plus when you’re trying to keep things minimal. I also appreciate that it’s weather-resistant—I’ve had it out in light rain, and it held up perfectly.

If I had to nitpick, the hand crank is more of a “just in case” feature. It’ll give you enough light to get by in an emergency, but cranking for a couple of minutes only gives you a few minutes of light. Still, it’s better than nothing, and I’d rather have it than not.

Overall, the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 has proven to be one of the best camping lanterns I’ve used. Between its brightness, adjustability, and the bonus of being a power bank, it’s perfect for anyone who likes a little extra functionality out of their gear. If you’re planning any trips where you need a reliable light source that can handle a variety of situations, this one should definitely be at the top of your list.

[Gear Pro]

Coleman Premium Dual Fuel Lantern with Carry Case

The Coleman Premium Dual Fuel Lantern with Carry Case is a classic camping lantern that brings back a bit of nostalgia for me. I grew up using Coleman lanterns during family camping trips, and having this model in my gear stash gives me that same warm, reliable feeling. But don’t let its old-school vibe fool you—this lantern packs some serious power and modern convenience.

One of the features I love most about this lantern is its dual-fuel capability. You can run it on either Coleman Liquid Fuel or unleaded gasoline. This is a huge bonus, especially if you’re like me and sometimes forget to pack specific fuel canisters. On one trip, I didn’t bring enough Coleman fuel, but I was able to use regular gasoline I had on hand for my camp stove. It’s little things like that that make this lantern a versatile must-have for extended camping trips or emergencies.

When it comes to brightness, the Coleman Premium Dual Fuel Lantern delivers. It can crank out up to 700 lumens, and it lights up a large area. I’ve found it especially useful when setting up camp after dark or gathering around the picnic table for some late-night meals and conversations. It’s adjustable too, so if I don’t need full power, I can dial it down a bit to save fuel. That adjustable brightness is a lifesaver when you just want a softer glow while you’re relaxing in your tent or around the fire.

The run time on this lantern is impressive. On a full tank of fuel, I’ve had it running for close to seven hours on high, and even longer on lower settings. That’s plenty of time to get you through a night or two without worrying about refueling. And speaking of fuel, I appreciate that this lantern burns cleanly, leaving no soot or weird odors lingering around the campsite.

As for durability, it’s everything you’d expect from Coleman. The metal frame and glass globe can take a beating, and the included carry case keeps it safe during transport. I’ve knocked it around a bit, and it still looks and works like new. The case also makes it easy to store, which is a plus for someone like me who tends to toss things into the back of the truck without much care.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that it’s not the most compact lantern out there. If you’re a backpacker or trying to keep your gear lightweight, this might not be your first pick. But for car camping or setting up a more permanent basecamp, it’s perfect. Plus, the lantern’s traditional design just feels right when you’re out in nature—there’s something about the soft hiss of a fuel lantern that adds to the camping ambiance.

Overall, the Coleman Premium Dual Fuel Lantern is a reliable workhorse. If you’re after a dependable, bright lantern with the flexibility of multiple fuel options, this one’s tough to beat. It’s earned a permanent spot in my camping kit, and I’ve come to appreciate the sense of security it brings, knowing I’ll never be left in the dark no matter where I’m camping.

[Gear Pro]

Best Camping Lanterns Buyer’s Guide

When you’re out camping, a good lantern can make all the difference between an enjoyable evening under the stars and stumbling around in the dark. Over the years, I’ve tried all kinds of camping lanterns, and I’ve learned that picking the right one for your specific needs can be a bit of an art. Whether you’re car camping with friends, backpacking solo, or setting up a family basecamp, there’s a lantern out there for every situation. Let’s dive into the key things I think you should consider when choosing the best camping lantern for your adventures.

Price
Let’s face it—camping gear can get expensive, and lanterns are no exception. Prices for camping lanterns range from around $20 for basic models to $100+ for feature-packed options with rechargeable batteries or solar panels. I like to think about how often I’ll be using the lantern and in what conditions. If you only go camping a couple of times a year, a more affordable model might do the job just fine. But if you’re heading out frequently or rely on your lantern for multi-day trips, it’s worth investing in something a bit more durable and feature-rich. Personally, I’ve found that spending a little more on a reliable lantern pays off in the long run.

Brightness
The brightness of a camping lantern is measured in lumens, and the amount of light you need depends on your camping style. If you’re just lighting up a tent, 100-200 lumens will do the trick. For cooking or lighting up a larger campsite, you’ll want something that can push out 400-700 lumens or more. I like a lantern that gives me the option to adjust the brightness depending on the situation. Having a lantern that’s too bright can kill the vibe when you’re trying to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature, so a dimmable one is always a great choice.

Light Duration
How long your lantern lasts on a single charge or fuel fill is a crucial consideration, especially if you’re off-grid for multiple days. Battery-powered lanterns often list their run time on different brightness settings, so check that out before buying. Some models might last 10 hours on full power but can stretch up to 50 hours on lower settings. Dual-fuel or rechargeable options give you some flexibility here, which is why I love having a mix of both in my camping gear. Trust me, you don’t want to be caught in the middle of nowhere with a dead lantern.

Portability
Portability is huge if you’re packing light or backpacking. Weight, size, and how easy the lantern is to carry or hang around camp can make a big difference. Some lanterns come with foldable legs, clips, or hooks for hanging in tents or trees, which I find super convenient. If you’re car camping, you can get away with something a bit bulkier like the Coleman Dual Fuel Lantern, but for backpacking, you’ll want something more compact and lightweight, like the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600. Always think about how much space you have in your pack or car.

Types of Camping Lanterns
There are several different types of camping lanterns, and each has its pros and cons:

• Battery-Powered Lanterns: These are lightweight and generally easy to use. They often run on AA or D-cell batteries, and the rechargeable versions are becoming more popular. I love rechargeable lanterns because I can plug them into a solar panel or charge them before I head out.
• Fuel Lanterns: These run on propane, liquid fuel, or dual fuel (like the Coleman models). They’re great for lighting up larger areas, but they tend to be bulkier and require a bit more maintenance. Fuel lanterns are ideal if you want something reliable for extended trips.
• Solar Lanterns: If you’re looking to stay eco-friendly, solar-powered lanterns are fantastic, especially for long trips where batteries or fuel might run out. They charge during the day, and while they might not be the brightest, they are great as backup or ambient lights.
• Hand-Crank Lanterns: These are good emergency options, as you can generate light with a little elbow grease. I usually bring one of these along as a backup, but I wouldn’t rely on it for primary lighting.

Light Adjustability
One of my favorite features in modern lanterns is the ability to adjust the light. Some lanterns let you control the direction of the light, such as the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600, which can focus on either 180 or 360 degrees. Dimming options are also a must-have, especially when you’re trying to conserve battery or just need a soft glow for inside the tent. Flexibility in how and where the light is distributed can really change the vibe of your camp.

Extra Features
These days, lanterns are loaded with extra features, and depending on your needs, these can be deal-breakers or just nice add-ons.

• Power Banks: Some lanterns double as power banks, allowing you to charge your phone or other devices. I’ve found this incredibly useful on long trips where I want to keep my phone charged for maps or emergency calls.
• Water Resistance: If you’re camping in rainy or damp conditions, make sure your lantern is weather-resistant. You never know when a sudden downpour might hit, and a water-resistant lantern will keep you from being left in the dark.
• Hanging Hooks or Magnets: I love when lanterns come with extra ways to hang or attach them around camp. Whether it’s a hook to hang from the tent ceiling or a magnet to stick to your car, these features make setup so much easier.
• Crank for Emergency Power: While not a necessity, a hand-crank feature can come in handy for those “just in case” moments. It’s not something I use often, but it gives me peace of mind knowing I can generate light if my batteries or fuel run out.

[Author]

Posts