Best Camping Flashlights in 2024: Don’t Get Left in the Dark

Listening to the crackling campfire and watching its dancing flames. Falling asleep under the stars. They’re the things I love most about camping. They’re also things that I can do without the need for a flashlight that I’m so careful to pack each camping trip. However, all the other things that I don’t love so much about camping (like washing and drying the dishes and fixing broken guy-lines) make having a good camping flashlight essential. And, of course, there are a load of unexpected occasions when a strong beam from of the best camping flashlights really comes in handy.

Those times when you stayed out to watch the sunset and now have to find your way back to your tent in the dark. The nights when you drank too many cups of cinnamon tea before tucking into your sleeping bag. It’s times like these, stumbling about and stubbing your toe in the darkness, when you wish you’d brought a flashlight. Not to mention their importance in emergency situations. I don’t mean to over-egg your perfectly cooked camping omelette, but having a good flashlight to hand could be the difference between life and death when things go awry.

Hopefully, you’re convinced and your next question is; which flashlight should I buy? Well, you’ll probably find plenty of options at your nearest superstore, but if you want a flashlight that you can really depend upon then these are our top picks.

• The best rechargeable flashlights for camping
• The best flashlights for camping (non-rechargeable)
• What to look when choosing a camping flashlight

Summary of the best camping flashlights in 2024

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The best rechargeable flashlights for camping

Goal Zero Torch 250 Flashlight

Battery type: Li-NMC rechargeable
Runtime: Up to 48 hours

If you want to reduce your camping footprint then why not leave the disposable batteries at home and go solar? The Goal Zero Torch 250 Flashlight is one of the most multi-functional solar-powered flashlights on the market. Not only does it feature a built-in solar panel, but there’s also a hand crank for sun-free charging and a two-way USB port for recharging via a power outlet. You can even use this flashlight to recharge your mobile. When it comes to lighting features, the Torch 250 offers a selection of lighting options including, flashlight, floodlight, and red light. The maximum output of 250 lumens but it’s lower lighting setting allows you to extend the battery life to up to 48 hours.

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI | Goal Zero

Nite Ize Radiant Rechargeable Utility Light

How do you know a product is cutting-edge and high-tech? Its name is purposely spelt like a text message! The Nite Ize (Night Eyes?!) Radiant Rechargeable Utility Light is small but mighty and ideal for illuminating even the darkest campsite.

This handheld LED torch has eight modes, offers a maximum light output of 850 lumens, and will run for 4 ½ to 16 ½ hours, depending on the brightness selected. It has one lithium-ion rechargeable battery, which charges fully in three hours. The body is made from shockproof aluminium and nylon.

With an IPX4 rating, this torch offers decent waterproofing. The magnetic housing means you can attach it to metal objects if you need to work hands-free.

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Amazon | REI

Coast XP18R Professional Series Flashlight

Battery type: ZX960 ZITHION-X rechargeable battery (included) or 6 AA batteries (not included)
Runtime: Up to 58.5 hours
Though one of the priciest rechargeable flashlights on our list, the ​​Coast XP18R Professional Series Flashlight is worth the extra spend if you’re looking for a versatile and powerful flashlight. Boasting a whopping 3650 lumens when on Turbo mode and a max beam distance of 330m, you’ll be hard pushed to ever really put this XP18R through its paces. It’s a heavy duty flashlight that runs on regular or rechargeable batteries which, usefully, can be recharge via a USB port whilst still inside the flashlight as well as out.

The main downside is the IP rating of 54 which means it’s resistant to dust and water splashes, but not waterproof.

Find the latest price at:
Amazon | REI

Fenix LD30 Rechargeable Flashlight

Battery type: Rechargeable 3,500 mAh lithium-ion battery
Runtime: Up to 70.5 hours
Made from durable, high strength and oxidation resistant aluminium, the Fenix LD30 is one tough flashlight for camping and general use. With an IP rating of 68, the exterior is dustproof and waterproof down to 1 metre, and it is impact resistant to 1 metre. Plus, its 1600 lumen LED lights also pack a powerful punch; manufacturers claim that in Turbo Mode the beam will reach 205 metres.

What we really like about this rechargeable flashlight is its range of five lighting abilities, plus a strobe setting. Set to eco, the light output is just 30 lumens reaching only 25 metres, making the LD30 ideal for seeing short distances in the dark or searching for something in your backpack. The beam can also be set to spot or flood.

The Fenix LD30 certainly isn’t a budget option for a compact flashlight (4.3” long). However, the product does come with a lifetime guarantee and 5-year limited repairs guarantee and it comes with a 2-position body clip, lanyard, holster and USB charging cord.

Find the latest price at:
Amazon | REI

Anker Bolder LC90 LED Flashlight

Battery type: 18650 rechargeable (included)
Runtime: Up to 13 Hours

The Anker Bolder LC90 is one of the best flashlights for camping on our list. Not only does it come with a very affordable price tag, but it also has a wide range of lighting settings and a reasonable battery life. With five different lighting settings (Low/Medium/High/Strobe/SOS) and a zoomable beam, the Bolder LC90 is suitable for anything from night hiking to camp cooking. On full brightness the 900 lumens LED beam should stretch for almost 200 metres.

The tough aluminium casing is both water and shock resistant, too. Our only criticism is that the double cell battery and larger than average handle does make it bulkier than other flashlights on this list, however, it should still squeeze into your coat pocket! Overall, we think the Bolder LC90 is one of the best flashlights for the money.

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Amazon

Nitecore MH23 USB Rechargeable Compact Flashlight

Battery type: 2 x 3500 mAh 8A 18650 (Included)
Runtime: Maximum 300 hours

The Nightcore MH23 is the most compact rechargeable flashlight on this list. It weighs in at just 3.39 oz and fits snugly into the palm of your hand. It’s also fitted with a pocket clip and comes with a lanyard, holster, and a plastic battery case. Its size doesn’t limit its power, however. The Nitecore MH23 has a maximum output of 1,800 lumens, reaching nearly 300 metres — even more impressive is its 300-hour runtime! The five lighting settings are controlled by one button and offer an even wider range than the Felix UC35; 1,800 lumens on High and 1 lumen on Low.

This flashlight is also waterproof up to 2 metres and 1.5 meters shock-proof. When it’s time to recharge we like that this flashlight gives you the option to charge by USB or change the batteries. The Nightcore MH23 is compatible with C123A batteries as well as normal 18650 batteries.

Find the latest price on:
Amazon

Fenix UC35 Rechargeable Flashlight

Battery type: 3500 mAH Li-ion Rechargeable (included)

Made from a solid aircraft grade aluminium, the Fenix UC35 is one of the toughest flashlights for camping on the market. The exterior is dustproof and waterproof for up to two metres. Its 1,000 lumen LED lights also pack a powerful punch. Manufacturers claim that on high the beam will reach 266 metres. What we really like about this USB rechargeable flashlight is its range of five lighting abilities, plus a strobe setting. Set to low, the light output is just 1 lumen reaching only 10 metres, making the UC35 ideal for seeing short distances in the dark or searching for something in your backpack. The beam can also be set to spot of the flood. The Fenix UC35 certainly isn’t a budget option. However, the product does come with a lifetime guarantee and 5-year limited repairs guarantee. The package also includes a removable lanyard, body clip, and two O-rings.

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI

SureFire P2X Fury Dual-Fuel Tactical Flashlight

Battery type: 1 x 18650 Li-ion Rechargeable or 2 x 123A Lithium
Runtime: 2.25 – 3.5 hours

The SureFire P2X Fury is a powerful searchlight contained nicely inside a very compact package. With a 18650 Li-ion rechargeable battery this flashlight can emit a 1,500-lumen beam, reaching up to 315 metres, for 3.5 hours. It’s virtually indestructible too, thanks to its corrosion and abrasion resistant aerospace aluminium body and tail cap. Plus, the simple tail cap switch makes it easy to turn on in the dark. The same button allows you to turn on a constant beam or momentary beam. The main downside, however, is that the SureFire P2X Fury doesn’t have any brightness or beam settings.

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Amazon | REI

The best flashlights for camping (non-rechargeable)

MagLite ML300LX LED Flashlight

Battery type: 3 x D-Cell Alkaline Battery (not included)
Runtime: High: 16 hours. Low: 77 Hours. Eco: 117 Hours

If you’re looking for a flashlight with an ultra-long runtime then look no further than the Maglite ML300LX. There are two versions — two cell or three cells — the larger of which can run on the eco setting for over 100 hours! The batteries are removable too, so if you’ll be out in the dark for an extended period you can carry spares.

This Maglite flashlight isn’t the cheapest on the market, however, it’s certainly durable. Its casing is made from a tough anodized aluminium with weather-resistant seals. Plus, its quick click button and quick twist beam focus are simple to operate in the dark. The maximum light output is 625 lumens which are considerably lower than others on this list. However this is still plenty for most campers.

Eco-friendly: We like this the Maglite MX300LX has an ECO setting meaning that its far less energy consuming than other flashlights. It does take disposable batteries but eco-conscious campers can choose to purchase rechargeable batteries for this flashlight.

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Amazon

Maglite Mini Maglite Pro 2 AA LED Flashlight

Battery type: 2 x AA (Included)
Run time: 2.5 hours average

In terms of pocket-sized flashlights, the Mini Maglite Pro 2 is one of the most compact models on this list. Despite that, it still emits a respectable 226-lumen beam which extends for up to 140 metres. The beam can be adjusted from spot to flood by twisting the head. Though the stated runtime is rather short, users confirm that it will last far longer than the predicted 2.5 hours without changing the batteries. In terms of durability, its anodized aluminium casing is corrosion and water resistant. It’s also shock-resistant up to 1 metre. This flashlight may not have all the technical features of other models on this list but the Mini Maglite Pro 2 is certainly a reliable and super compact flashlight for camping.

Find the latest price on:
Amazon

What to look when choosing a camping flashlight

Light output

Light output is measured in lumens and the number of lumens the bulb has indicates how strong the light will be. The more lumens there are, the stronger the beam. Flashlights typically range from 10 to 3500 lumens but the upper limit is far more than you need for basic camping. A low lumen level is actually better suited to activities like evening reading, while a high lumen level would be useful for hiking at night or emergency signalling.

Beam distance

Beam distance is measured in metres and reflects the distance that you can effectively see by the beam of your flashlight. If you plan to use your flashlight for midnight hikes then you’ll want to choose one with a beam which reaches at least 100 metres. For use around the campsite, a shorter beam distance is usually sufficient.

Beam type

Flashlights usually have a flood beam or a spot beam. However, the most versatile flashlights are fitted with adjustable lenses. The flood beam will light a wider area making it useful for lighting your camp kitchen or inside of your tent. Meanwhile, the spot beam allows the light to focus and reach a greater distance, which is necessary for walking at night. If you plan to use your flashlight for a range of activities then look for one with an adjustable beam.

Light settings

Most camping flashlights are built with more than one setting. This usually allows you to choose between a lower lighting level — thereby extending the battery life — or full brightness. The best flashlight for camping will be the most versatile, which usually means a good range of lighting settings. Extra settings, such as strobe and SOS, are not essential for basic camping but can be useful in emergency situations and night hiking.

Runtime

Another important consideration is how long your flashlight will run for without recharging or changing the battery. A flashlight with a greater light output will usually have a shorter runtime or a larger battery. If a flashlight has multiple brightness settings then the runtime will vary according to the chosen setting. Consider what you’ll be using your flashlight for. Long battery life is useful for bedtime reading or night activities but not essential if you will have access to power sockets and spare batteries, or if you only need to see your way to the bathroom.

Battery type

Flashlights with rechargeable batteries are our preferred choice as they reduce waste and save money in the long term. If you’re out camping for multiple days, however, it’s worth choosing a flashlight that has a rechargeable battery that is removable. Just remember to pack a spare set!

Body material

Anything that’s built for camping should be reasonably tough, and a flashlight is no different. A shockproof body made from durable material such as aluminium, is therefore essential. We also look out for corrosion and abrasion resistant materials, good grip on the body, and flashlights which have water-resistant seals.

You can read more about the measure of water and dust resistance in our guide to headlamps.

Size and weight

If you’re car camping then the size and weight of your flashlight isn’t as important as it is for backpackers. That said, we still prefer a flashlight which can be tucked into a pocket. Also, bear in mind that a heavy flashlight will be tiring to carry on a night hike.

As mentioned, there is no shortage of camping flashlights that are easily available. However, making sure you have a reliable one is more important than you might realise. From the super powerful to the small and compact, there’s something for every camper on our list of the best camping flashlights in 2024.

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