What Kind of Camping Lantern Do You Need?
The days of camping in the dark and sweating blood and tears just to build a fire are long gone. Why expend so much energy on such a simple task when you can just use a camping lantern?
Source of Power
Camping lanterns draw their light from various sources. Some lanterns are battery-powered, others require gas, while old-fashioned camping lanterns are composed of beautiful candles encased in fireproof transparent covering.
With candle lanterns, you need to have matches with you all the time and be knowledgeable of other fire-building methods in case of emergencies. Battery-powered lanterns, such as the popular Rayovac Sportsman Extreme, are the most portable and least prone to weather conditions, but make sure you have spare batteries with you. As for gas lanterns, consider using them if you’re bringing a camping stove with you. That way, if you ever run out of gas for your lantern, you could always borrow from the supplies you have for your stove.
In terms of longevity, battery and gas powered lanterns are sure to outlast candle lanterns.
If you are looking for a battery powered lantern, check out the
Rayovac Sportsman Extreme
. It has 3 light settings, it’s water resistant, can last up to 150 hours and you’ll never have to replace a bulb. If you’re looking for a gas lantern, take a look at the
Coleman Two-Mantle Adjustable Gas Lantern
. It can last for up to 14 hours at a time and you can adjust its light levels.
While it’s certainly a matter of taste, we recommend you stay away from the candle lantern due to potential forest fires that can result from an open flame. However, given their popularity, we discuss them below.
Type of Trip
If you are going on a hiking trip then it’s more practical to use a battery-powered lantern rather than one powered by gas. But if you are going to be stay in the same spot for the rest of your camping trip, then a gas lantern will do.
Noise Level
If you’re going hunting then you probably need a lantern that can function without much noise. In that case, you need candle or battery-powered lanterns and not those powered by gas. Too much noise from your lantern could alert your quarry to your presence and your efforts would be all for naught then.
Area
Where are you going to use it? Do you need the lantern to provide light for the entire camping group or do you simply need it to serve as a night light inside your tent?
Purpose
There are several types or designs of lanterns out in the market today, but you’ll find it easy to choose the best design for your needs when you consider its purpose or function. Do you need a lantern to help you navigate at night or search for something in the dark? Perhaps you only need it to provide general lighting?
Safety
Finally, if you are taking kids with you then a battery powered camping lantern is your best bet as gas and candle lanterns can lead to fire accidents when they come into contact with any flammable materials.
Further, you might even try a “children’s” lantern, such as the
Solar Power Kids Lantern
. It was created specifically for children, doesn’t require possibly dangerous batteries, weighs only about 9 Ounces, and is even water proof. Further, it’s a good way to promote a “green” lifestyle to your kids as it runs off sun power.
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