The 26 best camping lantern brands

  • 26 brands ranked
  • Ranked by brand visibility

Coleman, Rayovac and Snow Peak lead our ranking of 26 camping lantern brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.

Camping Lantern brands, ranked

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  1. 1

    Coleman

    Gas lanterns running on white gas or propane, plus a large run of replacement mantles and pump parts.

    Popularity 10.0/10

  2. 2

    Rayovac

    Alkaline-powered lanterns and torches, with value multipacks of AA and D cells for long camping trips.

    Popularity 2.1/10

  3. 3

    Snow Peak

    Japanese gas lanterns with clean minimalist design, pricier than mainstream camping brands.

    Top products: Mini Flame Nocturne GL-140-US

    Popularity 1.9/10

  4. 4

    Energizer

    Battery-powered LED lanterns that run on the same cells the company sells, at accessible prices.

    Popularity 1.9/10

  5. 5

    UCO

    Candle lanterns in aluminum and brass, a lightweight classic made in Washington State since 1971.

    Top products: Candle Lantern

    Popularity 1.8/10

  6. 6

    Etekcity

    Digital food scales are the signature product of Etekcity, a consumer electronics brand that also makes kitchen tools, smart gadgets, and fitness scales. The company works with offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Its kitchen products focus on simple operation and practical everyday use.

    Popularity 1.5/10

  7. 7

    Dietz

    Historic lantern name with kerosene and railroad-style lights, useful as a working lamp or a collectible.

    Popularity 1.4/10

  8. 8

    Primus

    Swedish camp stove maker whose gas lanterns use simple canister fuel and fold down compact.

    Popularity 1.4/10

  9. 9

    EVEREADY

    EVEREADY attempts to provide you with the most fantastic lighting solutions, ranging from bulbs to tube lights. They offer you a choice of alternatives with an ever-expanding product line and some of India's most energy-efficient lighting solutions. You may now...

    Popularity 1.4/10

  10. 10

    Lighting Ever

    Lighting Ever builds LED lighting for homes, offices, and outdoor spaces. Its catalog includes LED bulbs, LED strips, string lights, and camping lanterns. The brand's products are described as handcrafted in its own facilities, and it sells lighting for both...

    Popularity 1.3/10

  11. 11

    GE

    GE Lighting has been leading the lighting technology industry for over 130 years. Its mission is to provide customers with a first-class smart home experience. To do so, it has created novel lighting products designed to improve one's lifestyle and...

    Popularity 1.3/10

  12. 12

    DORCY

    Lanterns and flashlights in a tough build, suited to hiking and emergency kits.

    Popularity 1.2/10

  13. 13

    Stansport

    Lower-priced camping lanterns and hiking gear for occasional campers, not premium builds.

    Popularity 1.2/10

  14. 14

    Campingaz

    French gas lanterns and stoves that run on Campingaz cartridges, a common sight at campsites.

    Popularity 1.2/10

  15. 15

    Firefly

    Firefly Aerospace is a renowned space agency that manufactures launch vehicles. The company has its headquarters in Austin, Texas, USA. They develop economically viable designed launch vehicles which have trusted reliability. They have been issuing launch vehicles for small payload...

    Popularity 1.1/10

  16. 16

    Lux.Pro

    Utah flashlight maker with lanterns sold for outdoor and emergency use at modest prices.

    Popularity 1.1/10

  17. 17

    Duracell

    Battery-led lanterns with tri-power charging, pairing the brand's cells with solar and USB charging.

    Top products: LED Camping Lantern

    Popularity 1.1/10

  18. 18

    Bell and Howell

    Bell and Howell began in the camera and projector business and is linked with vintage Super 8 film cameras and lenses. Its equipment is often sought by collectors and by people shooting home movies on classic film gear.

    Popularity 0.9/10

  19. 19

    UST

    Survival and camp gear brand with lanterns in its Glow line, sold alongside tools and hiking kit.

    Popularity 0.9/10

  20. 20

    LuminAID

    Inflatable solar lanterns that pack down to a flat disc, charged by sun or USB and sold for emergency kits.

    Popularity 0.8/10

  21. 21

    L.L. Bean

    Outdoor apparel and gear retailer with its own lanterns, long a favourite for catalogue shoppers.

    Popularity 0.8/10

  22. 22

    Kovea

    Korean stove maker whose lanterns use gas canisters and suit backpackers who want light weight.

    Popularity 0.7/10

  23. 23

    Black Diamond

    Climbing gear brand whose lantern range sits alongside its headlamps, with rechargeable options.

    Popularity 0.7/10

  24. 24

    Swiss+Tech

    Swiss+Tech Products - Multi-Purpose Key Ring Tools

    Popularity 0.7/10

  25. 25

    Streamlight

    Tactical flashlight maker whose lantern models suit work sites, with rugged impact-resistant bodies.

    Popularity 0.7/10

  26. 26

    Coghlan's

    Canadian outdoor maker with lanterns at accessible prices, often bought alongside its camp gear.

    Popularity 0.7/10

Camping Lanterns Buying Guide

One of the essential items to have for any camping trip is a camping lantern. With the help of a camping lantern, you can see in the dark and have a much easier time finding your way around your campsite. However, with a multitude of lanterns available on the market, it can be a daunting task to choose the best one for your camping needs. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide that will help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing a camping lantern.

Types of Camping Lanterns

Before diving into the features of camping lanterns, let us first understand the different types of lanterns available. There are primarily three types of camping lanterns:

  • Propane Camping Lanterns: These lanterns operate using propane fuel and produce a bright light that can illuminate a large area. They are ideal for car camping trips and can last for a long time without the need for a recharge.
  • Battery-Operated Camping Lanterns: These lanterns use batteries to power their lights. They are lightweight and easy to carry around but may not provide as much brightness as propane lanterns.
  • Solar-Powered Camping Lanterns: These lanterns are environmentally friendly and use solar power to charge their batteries. They are lightweight and ideal for backpacking trips but may take some time to charge.

Key Features of a Camping Lantern

When it comes to choosing the perfect camping lantern, several features need consideration. We have compiled a list of features that you should consider before purchasing a camping lantern:

Battery Life

If you opt for a battery-operated or solar-powered lantern, battery life is a crucial factor to consider. Look for a lantern that has a long battery life, which means that you can use it for an extended period without having to change the batteries. Additionally, rechargeable batteries can be a better option to save money on buying new batteries constantly.

Light Output

Camping lanterns come with various light outputs ranging from 50-1000 lumens. Lumens refer to the brightness of the light. A higher lumens value means more brightness. The ideal light output for a camping lantern depends on the activity you plan on doing. If you want to read, cook, or play games, a lantern with a higher light output is perfect. However, If you plan on sleeping or hiking, you may want to choose a lantern with a dimmer light output.

Portability

Another important feature to consider when purchasing a camping lantern is portability. If you plan to hike, backpack, or do any other outdoor activities that require frequent movement, you should choose a portable lantern that is lightweight and easy to carry.

Water Resistance

If you plan to use the lantern in rainy or wet conditions, you should consider a water-resistant lantern. Water-resistant lanterns ensure that the lanterns' lighting elements and batteries are not damaged in wet conditions.

Durability

Camping lanterns can fall or be knocked over easily, making it essential to choose a durable lantern that can withstand the rough outdoor conditions. Look for lanterns made from durable materials such as metal or high-grade plastic.

Additional Features

Some camping lanterns come with additional features such as the ability to charge your devices or adjustable light settings. While these features may not be necessary, they can come in handy and make your camping experience more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect camping lantern for your outdoor needs can be daunting, but with this buying guide, you should now have a better understanding of what to look for when purchasing a lantern. Consider the type of camping trip you will be on, the features that matter most to you, and your budget. With careful consideration, you can find the perfect camping lantern that will brighten up your camping experience and keep your campsite well-lit.

Types of Bulbs

When looking at camping lanterns, you'll come across different types of bulbs. The two most common bulb types are LED and incandescent bulbs.

LED Bulbs

LED bulbs are the most common type of camping lantern bulbs. They consume less energy and emit less heat than incandescent bulbs. LED bulbs have a longer lifespan compared to incandescent bulbs, making them a more cost-effective option. Furthermore, they produce a brighter light than incandescent bulbs, require less power, and come in various color options. The downside, however, is that LED bulbs may not produce a warm, cozy light that some campers prefer.

Incandescent Bulbs

Incandescent bulbs produce a warmer and more comfortable light than LED bulbs. They work well in smaller tents or camping caravans where a warm and cozy light is desired. On the downside, incandescent bulbs consume a lot of energy, emit more heat, and have a shorter lifespan than LEDs. They also do not come in a color range and can make the campsite appear yellow and dim.

Types of Lantern Design

The design of the camping lantern you select can also influence your camping experience. Here are the three main types of lantern designs:

Upright Lanterns

Upright lanterns have a cylindrical shape and a handle on the top or side. These lanterns are easy to carry around and provide broad lighting across the campsite. Upright lanterns are one of the most common types of lanterns enjoyed by families or large groups of campers.

Lantern Flashlights

Lantern flashlights come in small, lightweight designs that are similar to traditional flashlights. They emit a focused beam of light, which can be rotated around the campsite. The downside is that they do not provide a large area of illumination, so they are best suited for individual use or small groups.

Ceiling Lanterns

Ceiling lanterns are fitted onto the top of tents or campers to provide overhead lighting. These lanterns are useful when setting up camp late at night. Ceiling lanterns consume less space and do not take up valuable space on tables or floors.

Price Range

Like any product, camping lanterns come in different price ranges that reflect the quality and features of the lantern. It is essential to balance the cost with the quality of the product to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Low-End Lanterns

A low-end camping lantern can cost you as little as $10. These lanterns are perfect if you are on a tight budget or do not go camping frequently. Though they may not have advanced features, they will provide adequate light for your camping needs.

Mid-Range Lanterns

Mid-range camping lanterns are priced between $10 and $50. They usually offer more features and better quality than low-end lanterns. These lanterns provide better light output, more durability, and advanced features that will make your camping experience much more enjoyable.

High-End Lanterns

High-end camping lanterns cost $50 and above. These lanterns usually include advanced features such as adjustable light output, Bluetooth speakers, USB charging ports, and long battery life. If you are an avid camper or backpacker, and willing to pay extra for top quality lanterns that will provide a highly enjoyable camping experience, The high-end lanterns are the perfect fit for you.

Conclusion

Camping lanterns are an essential tool for any camping trip, and choosing the perfect one can have a significant impact on your overall camping experience. When shopping for camping lanterns, consider the different types of lanterns, bulb types, designs, price, and features. With careful consideration, you can find the perfect camping lantern that will add brightness, warmth, and ambiance to your outdoor experience.