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10 Best Camping Lanterns 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern XTAUTO Lightweight Waterproof Solar USB Rechargeable LED Flashlight Survival Kits for Indoor Outdoor Home Emergency Light Power Outages Hiking Hurricane 4-Pack

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,238
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type and Life
Weight and Portability

Most important from
9135 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
The lantern light is very bright and the flashlight is a convenient bonus feature.
Battery Type and Life
Rechargeable via USB or solar, these lanterns are cost-effective, paying for themselves quickly compared to buying alkaline batteries.
Weight and Portability
Lightweight and fast-charging, these lanterns are perfect for gifting.
Ease of Use
Handles pop off easily but are simple to reattach, making them practical and user-friendly.

The XTAUTO Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern stands out as a versatile option for camping enthusiasts and those preparing for emergencies. Its main strength lies in the impressive 360° lighting coverage, with a brightness of 300 lumens that can easily illuminate a room or outdoor space. Its collapsible design makes it incredibly lightweight and portable—small enough to fit in your hand or bag when not in use. This is especially beneficial for families or younger campers who need access to dependable lighting without the bulk.

Durability is another highlight, as the lantern is made from high-quality ABS material, making it waterproof and resistant to various weather conditions. This durability, coupled with a long-lasting battery life of over 25 hours when fully charged, ensures it can handle outdoor adventures with ease.

A unique feature is the dual charging method: you can recharge it via solar power or USB, providing flexibility depending on your situation. Plus, it can function as a power bank for other devices, which is a handy addition for emergency situations. However, there are a few things to consider. While the lightweight design is an advantage, some users may find it less sturdy than heavier options. Additionally, despite the versatility in light modes, adjusting the brightness requires pulling the lantern up, which some might find cumbersome compared to traditional switches.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,238
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type and Life
Weight and Portability

Most important from
9135 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
The lantern light is very bright and the flashlight is a convenient bonus feature.
Battery Type and Life
Rechargeable via USB or solar, these lanterns are cost-effective, paying for themselves quickly compared to buying alkaline batteries.
Weight and Portability
Lightweight and fast-charging, these lanterns are perfect for gifting.
Ease of Use
Handles pop off easily but are simple to reattach, making them practical and user-friendly.
#2

Lichamp LED Camping Lantern, 4 Pack Battery Powered Flashlight for Power Outages, Portable Collapsible Hanging Light Essential for Home, Outdoor, Emergency Lamp Survival Kit Gear for Hurricane, Gray

Rating
9.8
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type and Life
Weight and Portability

Most important from
8372 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
Compact, lightweight, and extremely bright – these lanterns are perfect for any situation.
Battery Type and Life
Battery life could be better, so it's wise to have extra batteries on hand.
Weight and Portability
Compact, lightweight, and extremely bright – these lanterns are perfect for any situation.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durable construction that can withstand rough handling – great for outdoor adventures.
Ease of Use
Unobtrusive and easy to use, making them ideal for power outages and emergencies.

The Lichamp LED Lanterns are a versatile and practical choice for camping, hiking, and emergency situations. With 30 energy-efficient LEDs and COB technology, these lanterns provide bright, soft light at 350 lumens, covering an impressive 97 square feet. They are powered by 3 AA batteries (not included), ensuring safety with low-temperature operation, although the lack of included batteries might be inconvenient for some users.

The military-grade, water-resistant plastic construction ensures durability and resistance to external shocks, making them reliable for outdoor use in various weather conditions. Weighing in as lightweight and featuring a collapsible design with foldaway handles, these lanterns are highly portable and easy to store. The pull-up handles simplify operation, as they eliminate the need for switches, though this design may lack the fine-tuned adjustability some might prefer.

Additionally, the ergonomic handle design enhances comfort and ease of carrying. However, users looking for a lantern with multiple light modes might find this product limited. These lanterns are best suited for those seeking reliable, durable, and easy-to-use lighting solutions for outdoor activities and emergency preparedness.

Rating
9.8
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type and Life
Weight and Portability

Most important from
8372 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
Compact, lightweight, and extremely bright – these lanterns are perfect for any situation.
Battery Type and Life
Battery life could be better, so it's wise to have extra batteries on hand.
Weight and Portability
Compact, lightweight, and extremely bright – these lanterns are perfect for any situation.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durable construction that can withstand rough handling – great for outdoor adventures.
Ease of Use
Unobtrusive and easy to use, making them ideal for power outages and emergencies.
#3

Etekcity Camping Lanterns for Power Outages 4 Pack, Flashlight for Camping Essentials, Survival Kit and Gear, Hurricane Preparedness Items, Emergency Led Battery Operated Lights, Black

Rating
9.6
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type and Life
Weight and Portability

Most important from
26030 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
Definitely worth the money! The lanterns are very bright, small, and lightweight, yet surprisingly powerful.
Battery Type and Life
The lanterns are not only functional but also have a long battery life, lasting up to 50 hours on a single set of batteries.
Weight and Portability
Definitely worth the money! The lanterns are very bright, small, and lightweight, yet surprisingly powerful.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Perfect for emergencies and daily use. The lanterns are easy to use with one sliding motion and are highly durable.
Ease of Use
Perfect for emergencies and daily use. The lanterns are easy to use with one sliding motion and are highly durable.

The Etekcity Camping Lanterns are a solid choice for those in need of reliable lighting, especially during camping trips or emergencies. With a brightness of up to 154 lumens, it offers ample light for various situations, and the 360° illumination helps brighten up a larger area. The dimmable feature allows users to adjust the light intensity, which can be useful for different activities or to conserve battery life.

One of the standout features is its compact and lightweight design. The lantern easily collapses to a size comparable to a smartphone, making it convenient to pack in a backpack. Weighing only 0.57 pounds, it won’t add much bulk to your camping gear. Additionally, it’s quite user-friendly – just expand or collapse it to turn it on or off, making it accessible for all ages.

The lantern is powered by AA batteries and can last up to 50 hours on a single set, which is impressive for extended trips. It comes with 12 AA batteries, so you won’t need to worry about purchasing extras immediately. Moreover, the durability of the product is noteworthy; it's made from strengthened ABS material, which can withstand drops and is also water-resistant, making it suitable for unpredictable weather conditions. However, while it’s a fantastic option, it does have some drawbacks. The lantern's maximum brightness might not satisfy those looking for extremely high-output options for very large areas. Some users may prefer rechargeable options rather than battery-operated ones, as it can be less eco-friendly over time. Lastly, the storage compartment at the top is a practical feature, but it’s small and may not hold larger items securely.

The Etekcity Camping Lanterns serve well for campers, hikers, and anyone needing reliable light during power outages or emergencies, balancing portability, durability, and brightness effectively.

Rating
9.6
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type and Life
Weight and Portability

Most important from
26030 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
Definitely worth the money! The lanterns are very bright, small, and lightweight, yet surprisingly powerful.
Battery Type and Life
The lanterns are not only functional but also have a long battery life, lasting up to 50 hours on a single set of batteries.
Weight and Portability
Definitely worth the money! The lanterns are very bright, small, and lightweight, yet surprisingly powerful.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Perfect for emergencies and daily use. The lanterns are easy to use with one sliding motion and are highly durable.
Ease of Use
Perfect for emergencies and daily use. The lanterns are easy to use with one sliding motion and are highly durable.

Buying Guide for the Best Camping Lanterns

Choosing the right camping lantern can make a significant difference in your outdoor experience. A good lantern provides reliable light, enhances safety, and creates a comfortable atmosphere. When selecting a camping lantern, consider the following key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your needs.
Brightness (Lumens)Brightness, measured in lumens, indicates how much light the lantern emits. This is important because it determines how well the lantern will illuminate your campsite. Lanterns with lower lumens (up to 100) are suitable for small tents or close-up tasks. Medium brightness (100-300 lumens) is ideal for general campsite use, while high brightness (300+ lumens) is best for larger areas or group activities. Choose a brightness level based on the size of your camping area and the activities you plan to do.
Battery Type and LifeThe battery type and life of a lantern affect how long it will last and how easy it is to recharge or replace the batteries. Common battery types include disposable (AA, AAA, D) and rechargeable (built-in lithium-ion). Disposable batteries are convenient for short trips, while rechargeable batteries are more eco-friendly and cost-effective for frequent use. Consider how long you will be camping and whether you have access to power sources to determine the best battery option for you.
Weight and PortabilityWeight and portability are crucial if you plan to carry the lantern in a backpack or move it around frequently. Lightweight lanterns (under 1 pound) are ideal for backpacking and hiking, while heavier lanterns (over 1 pound) may offer more features but are better suited for car camping or stationary use. Think about how you will transport the lantern and choose one that balances weight with the features you need.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance ensure that your lantern can withstand outdoor conditions. Look for lanterns made from robust materials like impact-resistant plastic or metal, and check for water resistance ratings (IPX4, IPX7, etc.). Higher ratings indicate better protection against water and dust. If you expect harsh weather or rough handling, opt for a lantern with higher durability and weather resistance to ensure it lasts through your adventures.
Light Modes and AdjustabilityLight modes and adjustability allow you to customize the lantern's output for different situations. Common modes include high, medium, low, and strobe. Some lanterns also offer color options or dimming features. Having multiple modes can save battery life and provide the right amount of light for various tasks. Consider what activities you'll be doing and choose a lantern with the appropriate modes to enhance your camping experience.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how simple it is to operate the lantern. Features like intuitive controls, easy battery replacement, and convenient carrying handles or hooks can make a big difference. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, look for lanterns with straightforward designs and user-friendly features. This is especially important if you need to operate the lantern in the dark or with gloves on.

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