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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Camping Lanterns

When the sun goes down, you need light. We compared camping lanterns from traditional propane to modern rechargeable LED, finding what illuminates camp safely.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall Our top recommendation
Best Overall
Apollo LED Lantern

Black Diamond

Apollo LED Lantern

4.7 (4,567 reviews)

The lantern climbers and backpackers trust. Collapsible for packing, bright enough for tent or table, and that double hook hangs anywhere.

Brightness

200 lumens

Runtime

70 hours (low)

Power

4 AA

Weight

6.7 oz

Pros

  • 200 lumens bright
  • Dimming capability
  • Collapsible design

Cons

  • 4 AA batteries
  • Not rechargeable
  • Pricier than basic

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
Apollo LED Lantern
Apollo LED Lantern Best
Black Diamond
4.7
$40 View
Lighthouse 600 Lantern & Charger
Lighthouse 600 Lantern & Charger
Goal Zero
4.6
$80 View
LED Quad Lantern
LED Quad Lantern Value
Coleman
4.5
$42 View
PackLite Max 2-in-1 Phone Charger
PackLite Max 2-in-1 Phone Charger
LuminAID
4.4
$35 View
LED Camping Lantern (2-Pack)
LED Camping Lantern (2-Pack)
Etekcity
4.4
$18 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
Apollo LED Lantern

Black Diamond

Apollo LED Lantern

4.7 (4,567 reviews)

The lantern climbers and backpackers trust. Collapsible for packing, bright enough for tent or table, and that double hook hangs anywhere.

Brightness

200 lumens

Runtime

70 hours (low)

Power

4 AA

Weight

6.7 oz

Pros

  • 200 lumens bright
  • Dimming capability
  • Collapsible design

Cons

  • 4 AA batteries
  • Not rechargeable
  • Pricier than basic
Premium Pick
Lighthouse 600 Lantern & Charger

Goal Zero

Lighthouse 600 Lantern & Charger

4.6 (2,345 reviews)

Lantern meets power station. Bright light, USB charging for devices, and a hand crank for emergencies. The lantern that earns its spot.

Brightness

600 lumens

Battery

5200mAh

Charge

USB + hand crank

Weight

1.2 lbs

Pros

  • USB rechargeable
  • Phone charging output
  • Hand crank backup

Cons

  • Heavier
  • Premium price
  • Complex features
Best Value
LED Quad Lantern

Coleman

LED Quad Lantern

4.5 (12,345 reviews)

Four lanterns in one—each panel detaches as a flashlight. Perfect for families where everyone needs their own light for midnight bathroom trips.

Brightness

800 lumens total

Panels

4 removable

Power

8 D cells

Runtime

190 hours

Pros

  • 4 removable panels
  • Each panel is flashlight
  • 190 hour runtime

Cons

  • 8 D batteries
  • Heavy
  • Large footprint
PackLite Max 2-in-1 Phone Charger

LuminAID

PackLite Max 2-in-1 Phone Charger

4.4 (5,678 reviews)

Inflatable solar lantern that floats, glows, and charges your phone. Packs flat, inflates in seconds—perfect for kayakers and minimalist packers.

Brightness

150 lumens

Charge

Solar + USB

Waterproof

IP67

Weight

5 oz

Pros

  • Solar rechargeable
  • Inflatable/packable
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Lower brightness
  • Solar charging slow
  • Inflation needed
Budget Pick
LED Camping Lantern (2-Pack)

Etekcity

LED Camping Lantern (2-Pack)

4.4 (45,678 reviews)

Two capable lanterns for less than one fancy one. Keep one at camp, one in the tent—or give one to each kid.

Brightness

100 lumens each

Power

3 AA each

Quantity

2

Weight

4 oz each

Pros

  • Two lanterns included
  • Collapsible
  • Very affordable

Cons

  • Batteries not included
  • Basic construction
  • Limited features

Buying Guide: How to Choose Camping Lanterns

How to Choose a Camping Lantern

Lantern Types
LED Lanterns: Most common, efficient, durable, various power options.
Solar Lanterns: Renewable charging, lower output, weather dependent.
Fuel Lanterns: Bright, nostalgic, requires fuel and maintenance.
Rechargeable: USB charging, convenient, need power source for recharge.

### Brightness Levels
  • 50-100 lumens: Reading, tent interior, low ambient
    - 100-200 lumens: Cooking, card games, moderate activity
    - 200-400 lumens: Bright camp illumination
    - 400+ lumens: Lighting large areas, group activities

    ### Runtime Considerations
    Manufacturer claims are usually on lowest setting. Check high-mode runtime for realistic expectations. Plan battery needs accordingly.

    ### Features Worth Having
    - Dimming: Essential for versatility
    - Hang loop/hook: For tent or tree
    - USB charging out: Turns lantern into power bank
    - Waterproof rating: IPX4 minimum for rain
    - Collapsible: Saves pack space
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Lanterns

    LED or fuel lantern for camping?

    LED for most campers—safer, more efficient, lower maintenance. Fuel lanterns have their place for cold weather (they produce heat) and nostalgia.

    How many lumens do I need for camping?

    150-300 lumens lights a typical campsite well. Bring a dimmer option (50 lumens) for tent use to preserve night vision and avoid blinding tent-mates.

    Should I get a rechargeable or battery lantern?

    Rechargeable for car camping with power access. Battery-powered for extended trips where you can't recharge. Many lanterns offer both options.

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