Best Camping Lanterns of 2026

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2026

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Camping lanterns are an essential item for any outdoor enthusiast. These portable lights provide ample illumination for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Many lanterns come equipped with LED bulbs, making them energy-efficient and long-lasting. Other features may include adjustable brightness levels, rechargeable batteries, and even the ability to charge other devices. Some lanterns are designed to be waterproof or impact-resistant, ensuring they can withstand the rugged conditions of the great outdoors. Whether you're camping with family or friends, a reliable camping lantern is a must-have item for a successful trip.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern Cover #TOP 1
Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Consciot LED Camping Lantern 2-Pack Cover #TOP 2
Consciot LED Camping Lantern 2-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Etekcity LED Camping Lantern Cover #TOP 3
Etekcity LED Camping Lantern
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Camping Lanterns

Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern

XT00496
White
4-pack
Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern Cover
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

The Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern is a lightweight and durable lantern that provides 360° lighting coverage with 6+1 high-intensity LED chips, and can be used as both a lantern and flashlight. The collapsible design makes it easy to carry, while the folding handle allows it to be hung on tents or trees. It has two charging methods: solar and 220V charger, and the lantern can also be used as a power bank for Android in emergency. It is perfect for indoor or outdoor activities and serves as a necessary survival equipment for outdoor enthusiasts.

What We Like
Bright light output
Solar and USB charging
Lightweight and portable
Long battery life
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
No battery level indicator
Slow solar charging

Consciot LED Camping Lantern 2-Pack

AOL001-US-2-V1
Light Green
2 Pack
Consciot LED Camping Lantern 2-Pack Cover
Consciot LED Battery Powered Camping Lantern, 1000LM, 4 Light Modes, IPX4 Waterproof Portable Tent Flashlight for Power Outages, Emergency, Hurricane, Hiking, Light Green, 2-Pack

The Consciot LED Camping Lantern 2-Pack is a must-have for camping, hiking, fishing, and emergency situations. With a highest brightness up to 1000 Lumens and 360 degrees beam angle, you can adjust the lighting between four modes: cool white, warm white, combined white, and strobe with stepless dimming. The lantern requires 3 D-cell batteries and is designed with water-resistant and anti-slip rubber materials, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Additionally, it has top and bottom hanging hooks for multi-usage, and a built-in handle for easy carrying.

What We Like
Long battery life
Very bright illumination
Lightweight and compact
Multiple light modes
Weather resistant design
What We Don't Like
Tricky battery installation
No instructions included

Etekcity LED Camping Lantern

CL10-4 Pack
Dark Black
4 Pack
Etekcity LED Camping Lantern Cover
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

The Etekcity LED Camping Lantern is a reliable and durable source of light during emergencies like power outages and storms. With 30 bright LED bulbs, it can get as bright as 140 lumens with a 360° lighting effect. It is powered by 3 AA batteries and can provide up to 50 hours of bright light. The lantern is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to pack in your backpack while camping or hiking. It is constructed with military-grade ABS material, making it durable and water-resistant. Additionally, it has a convenient storage compartment at the top for storing keys, change, or spare batteries.

What We Like
Bright white LED light
Long battery life
Lightweight and portable
Durable metal construction
Easy to use and store
What We Don't Like
Light may be too bright

LuminAID PackLite Nova USB Solar Light

LUMPLNVB
White
LuminAID PackLite Nova USB Solar Light Cover
LuminAID Solar Camping Lantern - Inflatable LED Lamp Perfect for Camping, Hiking, Travel and More - Emergency Light for Power Outages, Hurricane, Survival Kits - As Seen on Shark Tank

The LuminAID PackLite Nova USB Solar Light is a lightweight, inflatable, and waterproof lantern that provides 75 lumens of LED light. It has multiple brightness settings, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. The lantern is safe for children and can be used for camping, hiking, emergency preparedness, and more. It has a long battery life of up to 24 hours and can be recharged in two ways, through solar power or USB input.

What We Like
Lightweight and compact
Bright adjustable light output
Long battery life
Solar and USB charging
Durable and water-resistant
What We Don't Like
Shorter battery life for some
Solar charging less effective
#TOP 5

Glocusent 135 LED Camping Lantern

Green
Glocusent 135 LED Camping Lantern Cover
Glocusent 135 LED Ultra Bright Camping Lantern, Up to 200H, 5000mAh Camping Lights with 3 Colors & 5 Brightness, SOS, Max 1500LM, Rechargeable Lantern for Power Outages Camping Hiking Emergency

The Glocusent LED Camping Lantern lights up your entire campsite with 135 bright LEDs, providing wide, shadow-free illumination perfect for camping, hiking, or backyard gatherings. You can adjust the brightness with five levels to find the perfect light for any activity. Thanks to its large 5000mAh rechargeable battery, the lantern can last up to 200 hours on low, so it’s reliable for long trips or power outages. It also offers three color modes—warm, neutral, and cool light—so you can choose the best lighting for reading, relaxing, or outdoor tasks. Plus, it has an emergency SOS mode and a phone charging port, keeping you safe and connected when it matters most.

What We Like
Long battery life
Multiple brightness levels
Lightweight and portable
Versatile color temperatures
Power bank function
What We Don't Like
Charging cable only, no block
Slightly larger than expected
#TOP 6

Lighting EVER LED Camping Lantern

3300002
Green-1000lm-1Pack
8.8*9.5*18.4 cm
Lighting EVER LED Camping Lantern Cover
LE 1000LM Battery Powered LED Camping Lantern, Waterproof Tent Light with 4 Light Modes, Camping Essentials, Portable Lantern Flashlight for Camping, Emergency Light, Power Outages, Not Rechargeable

The Lighting EVER LED Camping Lantern is a battery-powered LED with 1000 lumens of brightness, 4 light modes, and IPX4 water resistance. It has a long battery life of up to 12 hours, and features a hanging hook and removable cover. It is perfect for camping, emergencies, survival kits, and more.

What We Like
Very bright illumination
Long battery life
Durable construction
Lightweight and portable
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Battery compartment alignment issue
No battery level indicator
#TOP 7

LE LED Camping Lantern Rechargeable

3300008
Green / Black
LE LED Camping Lantern Rechargeable Cover
Lighting EVER 1000LM LED Camping Lantern Rechargeable, 4400mAh Power Bank, Camping Essential with 4 Light Modes, IP44 Waterproof Lantern Flashlight for Hurricane Emergency, Hiking, USB Cable Included

The LE LED Camping Lantern Rechargeable is a convenient and portable lantern that is bright and water resistant. It has 4 light modes and is rechargeable with a 4400mAh power bank, perfect for emergency situations. It also has a USB cable included for charging. Customers have found it to be extremely bright and great for power outages.

What We Like
Extremely bright light output
Compact and lightweight
Rechargeable battery
Multiple brightness settings
Durable construction
What We Don't Like
Micro USB charging only
No battery level indicator
#TOP 8

Odoland Portable LED Camping Lantern with Ceiling Fan

FBA_Other case
Black
7 x 6 x 6"
Odoland Portable LED Camping Lantern with Ceiling Fan Cover
Odoland Portable LED Camping Lantern with Ceiling Fan - Hurricane Emergency

The Odoland Portable LED Camping Lantern with Ceiling Fan is a versatile and useful camping gear. It features ultra-bright LED bulbs with a powerful fan that has high and low settings to provide nice air circulation and light up the tent. The lightweight build allows for easy portability and storage, and the lantern can last up to 37 hours of continuous use with enough battery capacity. The fan can work for up to 5 hours in high speed mode and 15 hours in low speed mode with 2 D batteries (not included).

What We Like
Bright light
Adjustable fan settings
Lightweight and portable
Easy battery access
Good air circulation
What We Don't Like
Battery life could be longer
No USB recharge option
#TOP 9

AlpsWolf Camping Lantern Rechargeable 800LM

T80G
Green
‎Green-1pack
AlpsWolf Camping Lantern Rechargeable 800LM Cover
AlpsWolf Camping Lantern Rechargeable, LED Flashlight Spotlight Lantern with 800LM, 3600 mAh, Strap Included Portable Bright Camping Light for Emergency, Outdoor Hiking, Power Outages

This is the AlpsWolf Rechargeable Lantern, a versatile 4-in-1 camping lantern that can be used as a flashlight, lantern, spotlight, or emergency red strobe light. It has a powerful brightness of 800LM and a high range of 1,640 ft, providing enough lighting during power outages and bright light within 1,640ft/500m when hiking in the dark outdoors. The lantern is equipped with a 3600 Capacity Rechargeable Battery that can be fully charged in 3 hours and work continuously for 12 hours outdoors. It is lightweight and portable, weighing only 0.8 pounds, making it easy to carry in a backpack or by hand. It is also IP65 waterproof, making it suitable for outdoor activities on rainy or snowy days. If you encounter any problems, AlpsWolf provides 30 days of after-sales warranty for each customer.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Rechargeable battery
Bright and strong beam
Multiple light modes
Versatile lantern and strap
What We Don't Like
Smaller than expected
Requires USB charging
#TOP 10

Glocusent Survival Camping Lantern

GLCSNTCL002
Green
Glocusent Survival Camping Lantern Cover
Glocusent 106 LED Camping Lights, Up to 80Hrs, 5000mAh Camping Lantern Rechargeable with 5 Brightness 3 Modes & SOS, IP68 Waterproof, Max 1200LM, Lanterns for Power Outages Hiking Emergency Hurricane

The Glocusent Camping Lantern is designed to withstand extreme conditions, making it perfect for your outdoor adventures. Its IP68 waterproof rating ensures it can function even underwater, while military-level drop tests confirm its durability. With 106 LEDs providing up to 1200 lumens, this lantern offers bright, shadow-free illumination for any situation. You can choose from five brightness levels, ensuring you have the right light for every need. Plus, the SOS mode is a crucial feature for emergencies, helping you signal for help when it matters most.

What We Like
Long-lasting battery life
Adjustable brightness and color temperature
Compact and lightweight
Warm, comfortable lighting
Rechargeable USB-C charging
What We Don't Like
Buttons hard to find in dark
Slight glare in some situations
Buying Guide Image

Tips for Finding the Best Camping Lanterns

Introduction

Camping lanterns are a crucial tool for any camping trip. They provide much-needed light in the dark wilderness, allowing you to navigate your campsite, cook food, and socialize with your fellow campers. However, with so many different lanterns on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this article, we will discuss some important factors to consider when choosing a camping lantern, as well as some of the top lanterns currently available.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a camping lantern, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you should think about the type of camping you will be doing. Are you planning a backpacking trip, where weight and size are important considerations? Or will you be driving to a campsite, where you can afford to bring a larger and heavier lantern?

Another important factor is the type of light source. Traditional camping lanterns use incandescent bulbs, which are relatively inexpensive but also relatively inefficient. More modern lanterns use LED bulbs, which are more expensive but also more energy-efficient and longer-lasting.

Another factor to consider is the brightness of the lantern. You will want a lantern that is bright enough to provide adequate light for your campsite, but not so bright that it will disturb your fellow campers or wildlife.

Finally, you should think about the durability of the lantern. A good camping lantern should be able to withstand the rigors of the outdoors, including wind, rain, and rough handling.

Top Lanterns

Now that we have discussed some of the factors to consider when choosing a camping lantern, let's take a look at some of the top lanterns currently available.

First on the list is the Coleman Twin LED Lantern. This lantern is perfect for car camping, as it is large and heavy but also extremely bright. It features two powerful LED bulbs that can be adjusted to provide either bright light for cooking and socializing, or dim light for sleeping.

Another great option is the Black Diamond Apollo Lantern. This lantern is perfect for backpacking, as it is small and lightweight but still provides plenty of light. It features a single high-output LED bulb that can be dimmed to your desired brightness level.

Finally, there is the BioLite SiteLight Mini. This lantern is unique in that it can be hung from a tree or tent pole, providing diffused light that is perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere. It is also rechargeable via USB, making it a convenient option for those who don't want to rely on disposable batteries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right camping lantern is an important decision that can greatly impact your camping experience. By considering the type of camping you will be doing, the type of light source, the brightness, and the durability, you can find a lantern that will meet your needs and enhance your time in the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many lumens should a camping lantern be?

For a camping lantern used inside a tent, a recommended range is around 100 to 200 lumens. This provides enough light to fill the tent without being overly bright or bothersome to the eyes.

2. What makes a good camping lantern?

A good camping lantern should have a sufficient lumen output based on your needs. Around 100 lumens is suitable for creating ambiance or close-up tasks, while 200 to 300 lumens are needed to brighten up an entire campsite, such as pitching a tent. Choose a lantern with the desired brightness level and features that suit your camping requirements.

3. Are propane lanterns safe in a tent?

Propane lanterns should not be used inside enclosed spaces like tents, campers, or vehicles, as they pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is important to prioritize safety and use propane lanterns in well-ventilated areas away from sleeping spaces.

4. Is 1000 lumens bright for camping?

A light with 1000 lumens or more is considered bright and suitable for camping tasks that require a spotlight or floodlight. It provides ample lighting for various activities around the campsite. One example of a bright camping light is the STKR Concepts Mobile Task Light, which offers additional brightness for specific areas.

5. Are rechargeable lanterns worth it?

Rechargeable lanterns offer cost savings as they eliminate the need for purchasing batteries or fuel. They can be easily charged using USB or 12V car chargers, making them convenient for on-the-go use. Rechargeable lanterns are a worthwhile investment for those seeking a more sustainable and practical lighting solution for camping.

6. What are the cons of gas lanterns?

Gas lanterns have a few drawbacks. They can be noisy to operate, generate a significant amount of heat, and emit carbon monoxide. It is important to use gas lanterns in well-ventilated areas or outdoor spaces away from children and pets. They are more suitable for outdoor use or semi-enclosed areas like outdoor kitchens, porches, verandas, or courtyards.

7. Why is red light good for camping?

Red light is favored by many campers because it helps preserve night vision and is less disruptive to nearby campers. The use of red light during camping allows for a more comfortable and enjoyable nighttime experience without compromising visibility or disturbing others in the surroundings.

Editor's Notes

During our camping lantern research, we found 24 camping lantern products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 847,511 customer reviews through our big data system to write the camping lanterns list. We found that most customers choose camping lanterns with an average price of $20.62.

The camping lanterns are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of camping lanterns, including XTAUTO, Consciot, Etekcity, LuminAID, Glocusent. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 417 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Arlen Smith Avatar

Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.

Camping Lanterns Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand XTAUTO Consciot Etekcity LuminAID Glocusent Lepro Lepro Odoland AlpsWolf Glocusent
Color White Light Green Dark Black White Green Green-1000lm-1Pack Green / Black Black Green Green
Material Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Plastic Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Blend Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Plastic
Light Source Type Light Emitting Diode (LED) Light Emitting Diode (LED) Light Emitting Diode (LED) Light Emitting Diode (LED) - Light Emitting Diode (LED) Light Emitting Diode (LED) Light Emitting Diode (LED) Light Emitting Diode (LED) Light Emitting Diode (LED)
Power Source USB charging & Solar charging Battery Powered Battery Powered Solar Powered - Battery Powered rechargeable batteries Battery Powered Electric Battery Powered
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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