Best Emergency Light Sticks of 2026

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Emergency light sticks are an essential tool for any emergency kit. They provide long-lasting and reliable lighting without the need for batteries or electricity. These sticks are activated by simply bending them, which causes a chemical reaction that produces light. They are waterproof and can be used in a variety of situations, such as power outages, camping trips, and search and rescue operations. Available in a range of colors, they can also be used to signal for help or mark a location. Compact and lightweight, they are easy to store and carry, making them a must-have for any emergency preparedness plan.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Glow Mind 30 Ultra Bright Glow Sticks Cover #TOP 1
Glow Mind 30 Ultra Bright Glow Sticks
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Ultra Bright Emergency Glow Sticks Cover #TOP 2
Ultra Bright Emergency Glow Sticks
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Green Glow Sticks Emergency Chem Lights (6", 25 Pack) Cover #TOP 3
Green Glow Sticks Emergency Chem Lights (6", 25 Pack)
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Emergency Light Sticks

#TOP 1

Glow Mind 30 Ultra Bright Glow Sticks

GM-06-30-N
Multi Color
30 Pack
Glow Mind 30 Ultra Bright Glow Sticks Cover
30 Ultra Bright Glow Sticks in Bulk - Multi Use Glowsticks for Parties, Camping, Emergency Light and Survival Kit with 12 Hours Duration (Multi Color)

Glow Mind Glow Sticks are the perfect accessory for any event or emergency situation. With their ultra-bright glow, they will light up your celebration or provide visibility in a crisis. These high-quality glow sticks are designed to last for 12 hours, ensuring you have ample light throughout the night. Whether you're hosting a party, going camping, or preparing for emergencies, these glow sticks are a must-have item. Their waterproof and non-toxic design makes them safe for kids to play with, and their durability ensures they won't snap or leak. Get prepared and make your event unforgettable with Glow Mind Glow Sticks.

What We Like
Long-lasting glow
Bright illumination
Variety of colors
Includes lanyards
Good value pack
What We Don't Like
Occasional dud sticks
Strings could be better
#TOP 2

Ultra Bright Emergency Glow Sticks

GM-06-12
Green
12 Pack
Ultra Bright Emergency Glow Sticks Cover
12 Ultra Bright Emergency Glow Sticks - Individually Wrapped Long Lasting Industrial Grade Glowsticks for Survival Gear, Camping Lights, Power Outages and Military Use (Green)

These glow sticks are ultra-bright and visible from a mile away, and provide 12 hours of glowing light. They are perfect for emergency preparedness, camping, fishing, hunting, boating, and parties. The Glow Mind lights sticks are waterproof, non-leaking, and non-toxic, making them a safer and more reliable alternative to road flares.

What We Like
Long-lasting glow
Bright illumination
Individually wrapped sticks
Includes stretchable cords
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Dim after first hours
Cannot check accidental activation
#TOP 3

Green Glow Sticks Emergency Chem Lights (6", 25 Pack)

TN-1225121
Green
Green Glow Sticks Emergency Chem Lights (6", 25 Pack) Cover
PartySticks Green Glow Sticks Emergency Chem Lights (6", 25 Pack) Military Grade 12 Hour Bulk Tactical Light Sticks for Survival Gear, Camping, Power Outages

PartySticks Green Glow Sticks are the perfect party favors for your glow parties. This pack includes 25 large 6-inch green glow sticks that will light up your celebrations. These waterproof glow sticks can be used as party decorations, added to pumpkins, or even used in the pool or during bathtime. To activate these glow sticks, simply snap them in the middle and shake until they light up. They can glow bright for up to 14 hours, providing you with longer lasting fun. These non-toxic and non-leaking glow sticks are safe for kids and can be used for various occasions such as pool parties, birthdays, concerts, camping, and more. With PartySticks Green Glow Sticks, you'll have an infinite amount of glow in the dark fun.

What We Like
Long-lasting glow
Bright illumination
Easy to activate
Multiple color options
Durable construction
What We Don't Like
Occasional defective sticks
Not ultra-bright
#TOP 4

PartySticks 6-Inch Glow Sticks 25-Pack

BFO8
Multi
26 Piece Set
PartySticks 6-Inch Glow Sticks 25-Pack Cover
PartySticks Glow Sticks Party Supplies for Kids and Adults (25pk Assorted) - 6 Inch Bulk Glow Light Up Sticks Party Favors, Glow in the Dark Party Decorations, Waterproof Nontoxic Glow Necklaces

The PartySticks Glow Sticks are a fun and vibrant addition to any event, coming in a pack of 25 large 6-inch sticks in bright, assorted colors. These glow sticks are waterproof, making them perfect for pool parties, bathtime fun, or even as floating decorations. You can easily activate them by snapping and shaking, and they glow brightly for up to 14 hours, ensuring your party stays lively well into the night. Plus, they are non-toxic and safe for kids, giving you peace of mind while everyone enjoys the glowing fun. These features make PartySticks Glow Sticks a great choice for a variety of celebrations and activities.

What We Like
Assorted bright colors
Waterproof and floatable
Long-lasting glow
Non-toxic and kid safe
What We Don't Like
Colors less vivid than pictured
Not ideal for emergency lighting
#TOP 5

HSGUS 32 PCS Glow Sticks

HSGUS2020A
32 Color
HSGUS 32 PCS Glow Sticks Cover
32 PCS Ultra Bright 6 Inch Halloween Glow Sticks - Emergency Bright Chem Glow Sticks with 12 Hour Duration - Camping, Hiking Glow Stick Lights - for Parties and Activities - Blackout Or Storm Ready

The HSGUS Glow Sticks are a reliable lighting solution for various occasions. Made with eco-friendly and non-toxic materials, these glow sticks are safe for both kids and the environment. Whether you face an emergency, blackout, or plan a camping trip, these bright sticks will provide essential light for safety and fun. Their waterproof and non-flammable design ensures durability, making them perfect for outdoor adventures. Additionally, they add excitement to parties, creating a lively atmosphere that guests will enjoy. With a lasting glow of up to 12 hours, you can count on them for all your needs.

What We Like
Long-lasting brightness
Good value for price
Multiple vibrant colors
Durable and thick design
Useful for emergencies
What We Don't Like
Occasional duds in package
Basic packaging
#TOP 6

25 Ultra Bright Green Glow Sticks

HSGUS2021G
Green
One Size
25 Ultra Bright Green Glow Sticks Cover
25 Ultra Bright Green Glow Sticks - Individual Packed With Lanyard - For Camping, Emergency Survival - Glow Lights for Blackouts, Hurricane and Storms- 6 Inch Chem Light Sticks with 12 Hour Duration

These 6-inch ultra-bright green glow sticks are individually packed with lanyard, making them perfect for emergencies, blackouts, survival kits, camping, parties, and more. They are made with industrial-grade construction techniques, which makes them waterproof, non-flammable, and non-toxic. These glow sticks are a safe and eco-friendly option that lasts up to 12 hours, providing you with more fun and 100% safety. They are great for Halloween decorations, party supplies, and favors. The manufacturer has made them with premium materials and assured their safety, so you can use them with confidence.

What We Like
Long-lasting glow
Very bright light
Sturdy plastic construction
Useful in emergencies
Includes elastic string
What We Don't Like
Strong force needed to snap
Light intensity fades over time
#TOP 7

32 Ultra Bright 6 Inch Large Green Glow Sticks

HSGUS2021
Green
6 Inch
32 Ultra Bright 6 Inch Large Green Glow Sticks Cover
32 Ultra Bright 6 Inch Large Green Halloween Glowsticks - Chem Lights Sticks with 12 Hour Duration - Camping Glowsticks, Emergency Glow Stick For Storms Blackouts - Glowsticks for Parties Activities

These 32 Ultra Bright 6 Inch Large Green Glow Sticks are perfect for emergencies, blackouts, survival kits, camping and parties. They are made from industrial grade construction which provides non-toxic, waterproof and CPSIA compliant party glow sticks that last up to 12 hours. They are eco-friendly, easy to use and great for Halloween decorations, Halloween party supplies, trick-or-treat bags, Halloween party favors, costume party and more!

What We Like
Long-lasting glow
High brightness
Reliable emergency use
Kid-friendly
Good value
What We Don't Like
Fades after several hours
Dimmer than advertised at end
#TOP 8

Nite Ize Radiant Rechargeable LED Glow Stick

RGSR-07S-R3
Disc-O Select
One Size
Nite Ize Radiant Rechargeable LED Glow Stick Cover
Nite Ize Radiant Rechargeable LED Glow Stick - Disc-O Select - Color Changing Light for Nighttime Visibility & Outdoor Use - Chemical-Free, Waterproof & Rechargeable Glow Stick - Includes S-Biner

The Nite Ize Color-Changing Glow Stick is a versatile and eco-friendly light source perfect for nighttime activities. Since it’s rechargeable, you won’t need to keep buying replacements, which helps reduce waste and saves you money. Its chemical-free design means it’s safe for the whole family to use. You can take this glow stick anywhere, even underwater, as it’s waterproof and can handle being submerged up to one meter for 30 minutes. Plus, it offers a fun color-changing mode, allowing you to choose your favorite color or enjoy a rotating light show. With the included S-Biner clip, you can easily attach it to your backpack or gear for hands-free visibility and safety.

What We Like
Rechargeable battery
Bright visibility
Lightweight and portable
Multiple color options
Durable and weather-resistant
What We Don't Like
Micro-USB charging port
Battery life could improve
#TOP 9

Cyalume Glow Sticks Military Grade Lightstick

9-08076
Green
10 Pack
Cyalume Glow Sticks Military Grade Lightstick Cover
Cyalume Glow Sticks Military Grade Lightstick - Premium Green 6” SnapLight Emergency Chemical Light Stick with 12 Hour Duration , 10 Pack

Cyalume Military Glow Sticks are premium green 6” SnapLight emergency chemical light sticks. With a 12-hour duration, these military-grade light sticks meet strict military specifications, offering high light output for extended periods. They provide safe and convenient 360-degree illumination, making them ideal for various emergency situations. These waterproof and non-flammable tactical glow sticks can be used underwater or in confined spaces, ensuring versatility in usage. Safer than road flares, these durable and non-toxic chemical light sticks are reliable for essential emergency responses and safety planning.

What We Like
Long-lasting glow
Bright illumination
Durable construction
Handy hanging hook
Works in all weather
What We Don't Like
Gradual brightness fade
Single-use only
#TOP 10

10 Green Glow Sticks with Lanyard

Glow Sticks
Glow Sticks
10 Green Glow Sticks with Lanyard Cover
Emergency 10 Ultra Bright Green Glow Sticks - Individual Packed With Lanyard - For Camping Survival - Glow Lights for Blackouts, Hurricane and Storms- 6 Inch Chem Light Sticks with 12 Hour Duration

Light up your parties, camping trips, and emergencies with the HSGUS Glow Sticks. These ultra-bright green glow sticks come individually packed with a lanyard, making them convenient and versatile. Whether you're facing a blackout, planning a camping adventure, or hosting a party, these glow sticks have got you covered. They are safe and eco-friendly, with a waterproof and non-toxic chemistry that ensures long-lasting and environmentally friendly lighting. The premium quality construction guarantees up to 12 hours of use, making them perfect for parties and events that last all night. With HSGUS Glow Sticks, you can create a unique level of fun and ensure the safety of your guests.

What We Like
Bright and long-lasting
Safe non-electric lighting
Durable construction
Useful in emergencies
Fun for kids
What We Don't Like
Not as bright as flashlights
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do emergency glow sticks last?

The duration of glow sticks can vary from 4 to 24 hours, depending on factors like the product type, brand, color, and temperature of the environment. Smaller glow sticks usually have a shorter glow duration due to the amount of chemical glow inside.

2. Are glow sticks good for emergencies?

Yes, glow sticks are excellent for emergencies as they provide instant light when needed. In situations like blackouts or other emergencies that require illumination, glow sticks can be a reliable and convenient light source to ensure safety.

3. How do you recharge glow sticks?

Glow sticks cannot be recharged as the chemical reaction is irreversible. However, cooling a glow stick can slow down the reaction, and placing them in the freezer for about a week may partially restore their glow when they defrost.

4. Will glow sticks work again if you freeze them?

Freezing glow sticks can temporarily prolong their glow. The chemical reaction that makes them glow is slowed down when frozen. While there is no scientific study on the extent of recharging, freezing glow sticks can revive them to some degree.

5. What are the disadvantages of glow sticks?

One disadvantage of glow sticks is that the chemicals used in them contaminate the plastic, making them non-recyclable. Additionally, when disposed of, these chemicals can potentially leak into soil and water. To minimize environmental impact, it is advised to place spent glow sticks in plastic bags or bottles before throwing them in the trash.

Editor's Notes

During our emergency light stick research, we found 24 emergency light stick products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 152,123 customer reviews through our big data system to write the emergency light sticks list. We found that most customers choose emergency light sticks with an average price of $17.25.

The emergency light sticks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of emergency light sticks, including Glow Mind, PartySticks, HSGUS, Nite Ize, Cyalume. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 237 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.