Camping Lights & Lanterns: How to Choose the Right Setup

Camping is easier to enjoy when you can see what you are doing after sunset. The right camping light helps you cook, find your way around the pitch, organise your kit and settle in for the evening. But with lanterns, torches and rechargeable lights all competing for space in your bag, which type should you take?

This guide explains the differences between camping lights and torches, the features worth checking before you buy, and how to put together a practical lighting setup for a weekend away, a longer trip or a night-time walk.

Camping lantern or torch: what is the difference?

A lantern and a torch do different jobs. A lantern spreads light around a wider area, while a handheld torch directs a beam towards a particular spot. Neither is automatically better; the useful choice depends on what you need to illuminate.

• Camping lantern: Best for lighting a tent, table or shared cooking area. Look for a stable base or hanging handle and a light that is comfortable to sit beside.
• Handheld torch: Best for walking to the facilities, checking guy lines, finding something in the car or lighting a path ahead. A focused beam is useful when you need to see further in one direction.
• Lantern-style torch: A versatile option that can provide a forward beam and a wider area light. It can reduce the number of separate lights you need to pack.
• Head torch: Useful when you need both hands free for pitching a tent, preparing equipment or sorting through bags. Check that the strap is comfortable and adjustable.

What to look for when choosing camping lights

1. Brightness that suits the task

Brightness is commonly measured in lumens. A higher lumen figure generally means more light output, but the brightest option is not always the most practical. A strong, focused beam can help with a path or distant object, while softer, more even light is often more comfortable inside a tent or around a table.

Think about where the light will be used rather than choosing by the biggest number alone. If possible, compare the beam pattern and lighting modes as well as the stated lumen output.

2. Battery type and running time

Check which batteries a light uses, whether they are included, and how easy they are to replace. Rechargeable lights can be convenient if you have a reliable way to recharge them. Battery-powered torches can be useful for longer trips when you can pack spare batteries.

Look for the manufacturer's stated running time and remember that it can vary with the brightness setting and how the light is used. For a multi-night trip, plan how you will keep each light powered rather than relying on a single device.

3. Size, weight and portability

For backpacking, every item needs to earn its place. A compact torch that fits in a pocket or side pouch is easy to carry on evening walks. For a car-based campsite, a larger lantern may be less of a concern if it gives you useful area lighting.

Check the dimensions and weight before buying, and consider where the light will live in your pack. A small torch attached to your keys or stored in an accessible pocket can be easier to find than one buried at the bottom of your bag.

4. Weather resistance and grip

Outdoor equipment may be exposed to damp grass, drizzle, muddy hands and accidental knocks. Check the product's stated water-resistance information rather than assuming that every torch is waterproof. A textured or non-slip handle can also make a light easier to hold securely when conditions are wet.

5. Useful extra features

Features such as a magnetic base, a standing design, a hanging hook or a second lighting mode can make a torch more versatile. A magnet can be particularly useful when working near a vehicle or metal surface. A light that can stand upright may help illuminate a small area without needing to be held.

Three Duronic torches to consider for outdoor use

Duronic's portable torch range includes compact handheld models and a more versatile lantern-style torch. Choose according to the job you need the light to do.

Duronic RFL163AAA: a hands-free lantern-style torch

The Duronic RFL163AAA switches between torch mode and lantern mode. It has a magnetic base, so it can attach to a suitable metal surface, and it can stand upright to provide a wider area of light. This makes it a flexible option for campsite jobs, checking equipment or lighting a small workspace.

It uses 3 AAA batteries and has a stated working time of up to 4 hours. Actual battery life can vary with use.

Duronic RFL283AA: a compact everyday torch

The Duronic RFL283AA is a lightweight handheld torch measuring 13.6 x 3.5 cm. Its 110-lumen CREE LED, non-slip diamond-knurled grip and water-resistant design make it a practical option to keep close at hand for evening walks and general outdoor use.

It operates on 3 AAA batteries, which are not included.

Duronic RFL131AA: a small torch for your pocket

The Duronic RFL131AA is a compact 8.7 x 2 cm torch with a stated output of 110 lumens. It uses 1 AA battery, not included, and its small size makes it easy to carry in a coat pocket, day bag or camping kit.

Build a simple camping lighting kit

You do not need to pack a large collection of lights. A practical setup could include:

• One area light: A lantern or lantern-style torch for the tent or campsite table.
• One personal torch: A compact handheld light for walks around the campsite and finding your way after dark.
• Spare power: The correct spare batteries or a suitable charging plan for the lights you bring.
• A backup light: A second, separate light source in case your main one runs out of power or gets misplaced.

Before leaving, test every light, check the battery level, pack spare batteries where needed and make sure everyone in your group knows where the lights are stored.

Camping light safety tips

• Use lights according to the manufacturer's instructions and keep them away from loose fabric or anything that could obstruct ventilation.
• Do not leave a bright light shining directly into someone's eyes, particularly inside a tent.
• Keep batteries dry and store spares so that their terminals cannot come into contact with metal objects.
• Use a torch when moving around unfamiliar ground, and keep paths and tent entrances clear of bags and guy lines.
• Never use fuel-burning lamps, camping stoves or barbecues inside a tent or enclosed space.

Frequently asked questions about camping lights

Are camping lanterns better than torches?

They serve different purposes. A lantern is generally more suitable for lighting an area, such as a tent or table. A torch is better for directing light along a path or towards a particular object. Many campers find it useful to take one of each.

How many lumens do I need for a camping torch?

It depends on the task. A lower output may be sufficient for close-up tasks around a tent, while a brighter beam can be useful for walking or seeing further ahead. Compare the beam pattern and battery life as well as the lumen figure.

Should I take spare batteries camping?

If your torch uses replaceable batteries, taking the correct spares is sensible, especially on trips where charging may not be convenient. Check the battery type before you travel and store spares safely.

Can one torch work as both a lantern and a flashlight?

Some models offer both modes. The Duronic RFL163AAA, for example, switches between handheld torch mode and lantern mode, and can stand upright or attach to a suitable metal surface using its magnetic base.

Find the right light for your next trip

The best camping light is the one that suits the way you travel. Consider whether you need wide area lighting, a focused beam or a compact torch you can carry every day. Check battery requirements and weather-resistance details before you go, then pack a backup light so you are not left in the dark if your main one runs out.

Explore the Duronic radios and torches collection to find portable lighting and useful outdoor essentials. If you are also preparing for unexpected power cuts at home, read our UK 72-hour power cut preparedness checklist.