We have a wide variety of camping lanterns and lights to choose from as there’s a lot of factors to consider. That’s why we’ve listed all aspects to look into and narrowed down 10 of the best products available in the Australian market right now to help you make the right decision for your trip.
Our Picks For Best Camping Lanterns
10 Best Camping Lanterns
- Coleman Lantern Rugged Rechargeable (Lithium Ion)
- HeroBeam LED Lantern V2.0 with Flashlight
- Lighting EVER – LED Camping Lantern Rechargeable
- LED Camping Lantern, Rechargeable Portable Lantern Flashlight
- Brightest Rechargeable Lantern LED
- OPOLAR 5000mAh Camping Lantern Clip On Fan with Hanging Hook
- Ryno Tuff Camping Lights – Tent Light with Remote Control
- LuminAID Solar Inflatable Lanterns
- UCO Sprout 100 Lumen Hang-Out Mini Camping Lantern
- LE Rechargeable Camping Lantern, 1000 Lumen LED Outdoor Lights
Camping Lanterns: The Buyer’s Guide
Here’s an extensive rundown of the important factors to consider when choosing the right camping lantern or light for your exciting outdoor adventure.
The Different Types of Camping Lanterns
There are different types of lanterns and lights available and each one will cater to different needs and different outdoor settings.
Electric Lanterns
Electric Lanterns come in a variety of choices such as rechargeable, solar-powered, battery-powered, and LED. Electric camping lanterns are becoming more and more popular among campers, owing to their many advantages and overall convenience.
LED
It can either be rechargeable, battery-powered, even solar-powered—depending on the product. The most common feature (which sets them apart from other types of electric lanterns) is their ability to change the light color. They often have efficient power consumption and, for rechargeable ones, some can be easily charged with a power bank.
Rechargeable Lanterns
Rechargeable Lanterns are a type of electric lantern that are very convenient to use, as mainly because they don’t frequently require a battery change. This is one of the many modern camping lanterns in the market right now, which offers different features and functions,one of which is adjustable brightness.
Solar-Powered Lanterns
This type of camping lantern that offers an easy to use method of recharging as they won’t depend on electric power—just sunlight. Although,the light it emits may not be as bright as a battery-powered alternative, this is a good type of lantern to have when you’re deep within the wilderness for days without any source of electricity or have enough extra batteries to keep you illuminated throughout the trip.
Battery-Powered Lantern
Battery Powered Lanterns are the most widely used camping lantern among campers, as they can be easily used without the need for any charging cords. The battery usually lasts a good amount of time,.but when they do run out of power, it can be very inconvenient.
Fuel and Gas Lanterns
Fuel and Gas lanterns were traditionally used before electric lanterns came into existence. One of their key advantages is how it can light up the whole campsite—way more than what an electric lantern can do. Additionally, they can run on either liquid fuel, propane, or butane—depending on what the product requires.
Fuel lanterns tend to have a long-burning time. One canister, for example, can last up to a full day of light. Compared to electric lanterns, it gives off a warm light which can make campers feel more cozy and warm at night.
Of course, it also comes with a few downsides, such as not being kid-friendly and cannot be used inside the tent.
Candle Lanterns
Basically, this type of camping lantern utilizes the use of candles as a light source. One major thing to note is that it can create a lot of heat, so there’s a need to be extra careful. However, they do provide a more natural and softer light.
Explaining the Terminology
LED
A Light-emitting, semiconductor diode that will glow when a voltage is applied. LEDs are what electronic lanterns usually use as a light source.
Lumen
Also known as “Light Output”. It is the measure of the total amount of visible light from a light source—or in this case, from the camping lantern.
Lithium-ion (Li-on)
A rechargeable battery that is commonly for mobile devices. Some lanterns that use li-on batteries are equipped with charging features for your smartphones and other gadgets.
Camping Lanterns: Primary Considerations
Light output
Measured by lumen (lm); It should be kept in mind that the higher the light output of a lantern or light, means the greater the light brightness. However, that would also mean (in LED lanterns, for instance), higher wattage, and, therefore, shorter running time/battery life.
Power source
What type of power source will best fit your trip? Will opting for battery-powered lanterns be enough? Will you be able to handle fuel-burning lanterns? The ideal power source will depend mainly on your accessibility of a replacement or ability to recharge.
When planning to go deep into the wilderness without any means of electricity, you can try looking into the benefits of solar-powered lights (will depend on weather conditions) or on fuel-burning lanterns.
Run Time
Your camping lantern or light should be able to last you until your last day—or at least, your last night of camping. You should look into the average run time of a lantern to emit light in a single charge so that you could adjust your preparations accordingly. Like packing extra batteries or bringing a few more fuel canisters, depending on the duration of your trip.
Size and Weight
These two factors will always be important factors to take into consideration, as these will be paramount, depending on the kind of trip that you will take. When going hiking, the size and weight of your gear is always detrimental, so you should go for compact and lightweight items.
For car campers, these won’t be too much of an issue because of the availability of storage and the same goes for backyard camping or RV camping.
Camping Lanterns: Secondary Considerations
Added features
Modern camping lanterns offer a variety of features aside from simply providing light. Some electric lanterns can serve as power banks or as flashlights as well. There are some that can even pick up radio frequencies. Of course, with many added features, the product will likely cost more. Whenonsidering the circumstances you’ll be in, having added features will always be an advantage.
Durability and weather conditions
There are lanterns that are built for rough trips and for extreme weather conditions, so ake sure to look closely into the features closely. For instance, not all electric lanterns may be able to withstand wet weather conditions because of the possibility of short-circuiting, although there are heavy duty variants that will.
The material of the lantern will also be one of the basis for durability. For rough terrains, some lanterns will have a rubberized body or made with premium-grade metal, aluminum, or even plastic.
The 10 Best Camping Lanterns Available in Australia
#1. Coleman Lantern Rugged Rechargeable (Lithium Ion)
Amazon’s Choice for Camping Lantern
- Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
- USB charging port to charge your mobile devices (USB cord included)
- 240V charger lets you easily charge the lantern from any home outlet
Weight: 700 g | Dimension:15 x 28 x 15 cm | Lumens: 400 (high), 100 (low)
Standout feature: Can charge mobile devices with its USB port
The Coleman Lantern Rugged Rechargeable (Lithium Ion) has a runtime of 5 hours on a 400-lumen high usage, but can last as long as 20 hours on a 100-lumen low usage. Meanwhile, while on high, it has a beam distance of 12m and 6m when on low.
It comes with lifetime LEDs (reduced-glare and streak-free light) that would not need replacing. It’s also convenient to charge. It comes with a 120V charger, making it very easy to charge its built-in lithium battery from any home outlet. Keeping the charger is worry-free too, as it has its own storage in the lantern base.
This camping lantern can perform well even under wet conditions as it has an IPX4 water-resistant design and can deal with “rugged” use as it is impact resistant as well. It comes with a large bail handle which makes it very convenient to carry.
#2. HeroBeam LED Lantern V2.0 with Flashlight
Best Overall Two-Way Camping Lantern
- SUPER BRIGHT - twice the brightness of old tech 30 LED lanterns thanks to a trio of the latest tech COB LEDs which brightly illuminate...
- TOUGH & WEATHER-RESISTANT - Our rugged lantern is built to withstand outdoor leisure use in all weather - durable ABS body, no glass,...
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT - At 5.5" high and 3.5" wide collapsed, it fits neatly in a backpack, wheel well and most kitchen drawers and it...
Weight: 274 g | Dimension: 5.5” x 3.5” (collapsed) | Lumens: 350 lm
Standout feature: Collapsible lantern with a flashlight
The HeroBeam LED Lantern V2.0 with Flashlight can be used as a lantern and as a flashlight. It is intelligently designed as you don’t have to press any switch turn on the lantern. All you have to do is to pull up the top section and it automatically emits light.
It is equipped with three of the latest COB LEDs, providing a 360-degree illumination—enough to light a tent, a garage, or even a caravan. While its powerful 1W flashlight is wide-angled, covering more space than a regular flashlight.
Its handle can be configured as well, depending on which light you’ll use. When using it as a lantern, you can place the handle on top, and you can easily move it on the side when opting to use it as a flashlight.
The HeroBean LED is great for rugged weather conditions as it is built to withstand tough weather conditions. It’s very durable, shock and water-resistant (IPX4 standard), and has no glass.
#3. Lighting EVER Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern
Best Compact Camp Light
- Multifunction Lantern: Compact LED camp light can also use as a power bank. Built-in rechargeable 3000mAh polymer battery (USB cable...
- 3 Lighting modes: This camping lantern has full brightness (280 lm), half brightness (140 lm), and SOS mode (260 lm), which...
- Portable: It is small but bright enough, compact in design with a light weight (0.39lb/176g), it can be put into your purse or backpack...
Weight: 176 g | Dimension: 6.3 x 7.01 x 6.3 cm | Lumens: 280 lm (full brightness), 140 lm (half brightness)
Standout features: Portable, can be used as a power bank
The Lighting EVER Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern may just be your next ultimate camping light buddy. It’s also a great gear to have ready during emergency situations like hurricanes as it is equipped to keep you illuminated in the dark and help charge your mobile devices.
It comes with the feature of being a powerbank. It is equipped with a 3000mAh polymer battery and a 5V 1A USB charging port. It can be the ultimate lifesaver!
Its lighting capabilities are excellent as well, considering its very light and compact—only weighing less than 200 g. In full brightness, it can emit 280 lm, and 140 lm in dimmed or half brightness. When used in its full capacity, it only has a running time of 5 hours but can last up to 10 to 11 hours when dimmed. It comes with a third lighting mode as well, which is an SOS mode that can emit 260 lm and help you get easily seen by rescuers or other people.
It also has a hook for hanging or you can make use of its two magnets on the base to conveniently stick it on metal surfaces like on your bike, tent poles, and even on your car. It comes with an IPX4 rating as well, which means it is water-resistant.
#4. This product is currently unavailable
Amazon’s Best Selling Camping LED Lantern
No products found.
Weight: 431 g | Dimension: 18.29 x 9.91 x 9.4 cm | Lumens: 800 lm
Standout features: Multifunctional, 6 lighting modes, can be used as a power bank
The This product is currently unavailable is a powerhouse. It uses High Brightness T6 Lamp Beads to emit 800 lm of light which cover a 300-meter range. Although, because of its powerful lighting capacity, it can only be used for a maximum of 6 hours as a lantern and 4 hours as a flashlight. It warns you when the battery is running low as it emits red light. When fully charged it will emit blue light.
It comes with two modes of red light to help you send out an SOS or warning. By clicking the switch button three times, the light turns red and on the fourth click, it’ll become a strobe light.
This lantern is equipped with 2 built-in 18650 lithium-ion rechargeable batteries that can serve as a 3600mAh power bank. Its charging method is through USB charging but can also support a 5V DC charger (not included in the package).
It’s a heavy-duty camping lantern as well as it’s waterproof and drop resistant. It is built with a rubber structure that’s designed to be water-resistant.
#5. Brightest Rechargeable Lantern LED
Amazon’s Choice for Rechargeable Lantern
- NEW COLOR! Awesome Brightness! 400 Lumen, 360 degree coverage, 6 modes (white and red). Light up an entire room for reading, games or...
- Longest Run Time Available. Charge from wall, car or computer. Built in indicator lamp shows power level. Stop worrying that your...
- USB Battery Bank. 6000mAh Li-ion battery charges your iPhone, Android, tablet or speakers. Excursions or emergencies, relax with the...
Weight : 453. 59 g | Dimension: 8.89 x 8.89 x 17.78 cm | Lumens: 400 lm
Standout features: 6000mAh power bank, 5 ft. drop-proof, 6 lighting modes
Blazin’s Brightest Rechargeable Lantern LED can keep you illuminated for days in a single charge, as it has one of the longest running times which is 400 hours. It comes with another variant, 600 lm, which lasts up to 500 hours.
For the 400 lm rechargeable lantern, it can be used as a 6000mAh power bank, while the 600 lm has a 12,000mAh Li-ion battery capacity. This makes it a powerful alternative charger to have for mobile devices when out camping for an extended number of days.
The 400 lm variant has 6 lighting modes that’ll help you conserve lantern power. To attain the 400-hour run time, you can put the lantern in a 40 lm white light mode. Although it’ll give you a dimmed illumination. When using it at its full brightness, it’ll still last for 24 hours—still not too bad considering others will only last for 4 to 5 hours.
In case of emergency and there is a need to send an SOS, its equivalent white light mode can run for 300 hours. When in red mode, on the other hand, it will only emit 10 lumen and will last also for 400 hours. Its other red mode is a flashing feature which is good for sending out a warning.
This is a good lantern to have in hand when planning for a rough terrain camping trip as it can withstand a drop of up to 5 ft. Its rubberized body will help protect the lantern from bumps and drops.
#6. This product is currently unavailable
Best Camping Lantern with a Fan
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Can be hung, wall-mounted, or standingEquipped with a rotating fan
Rechargeable###ER##GF####Dimmed brightness
Cannot be used as the main light source[/i2pc]
The This product is currently unavailable offers a lot of features in a small package. It keeps you illuminated and well ventilated in different angles, depending on your preference.
This portable camping lantern with a fan can either be clipped on or be hung (with its built-in hook) which makes it convenient to place inside the tent and be able to be moved around for better angles. For a more permanent placing, it can be mounted on the wall as it has back fixing holes. Or you can use it just as a desk/table fan.
Its 5000mAh battery has a 10W fast charging capability which will last for a good 5 to 35 hours of use—depending on the fan speed used. It can be fully charged in 4 hours when using a 5V-2A adapter. Nonetheless, it can be used continuously even when charging.
It does many things but doesn’t rely on it as your main source of light. When camping, it can best be used inside the tent as a light and to circulate air inside.
#7. Ryno Tuff Camping Lights
Best Overall Multifunctional Indoor LED Lamp
- Camping Gear That Lasts – Illuminate your next camping trip with this innovative IR remote control camping light! Choose from 5...
- Yellow Light Acts As An Insect Repellant - For those summer nights when bugs are out in full force, our yellow-tinted bulb emits a...
- Waterproof & USB Rechargeable - This lantern and its waterproof, dustproof casing provide superior protection (IP65 rating) while...
Weight: 68.04 g | Dimension: 7.62 x 7.62 x 10.92 cm | Lumens: 150 lm
Standout features: Mosquito repellant feature, comes with a remote control
The Ryno Tuff Camping Lights is not your ordinary-looking camping lamp. Physically, it looks like a heavy-duty light bulb but it functions way more than the regular bulb.
Its full brightness measures 150 lm and can be controlled by a remote up to 30 ft. away. One of its key features is its two insect-repelling yellow light options. It does not necessarily kill insects/ mosquitos but because of its different light wavelength, it will not attract bugs and other insects like ordinary light bulbs do.
It’s IP65 waterproof which means you can leave it outside all night even in wet weather conditions. For its power capacity, it can run over 300 hours in its lowest lamp setting and only 4 hours on its brightest.
#8 LuminAID Solar Inflatable Lanterns
Best Solar-Powered Inflatable Camping Lantern
No products found.
Weight: 150.25 g | Dimension: 12 x 12 x 12 cm | Lumens: 75 lm
Standout features: Portable, collapsable, and solar-powered
The This product is currently unavailable is modern innovation at its finest. It takes out all the common things you think you know about lanterns. At first glance, you won’t even believe it’s a camping lantern.
This product actually comes in many variants, but its most basic is the PackLite series which comes in 3 color options: Nova for White (ultimate utility), Firefly for Warm White (ultimate coziness), and Spectra for Multi-Color (ultimate fun). It’s more diverse variants, on the other hand, come with a mobile device charging feature and higher lumens.
It takes about 10 hours of direct sunlight to fully charge this inflatable lantern. And if you think you don’t have enough time, you can charge it for 1 to 2 hours via USB charging.
#9. UCO Sprout 100 Lumen Hang-Out Mini Camping Lantern
Best Mini Camping Lantern
- Outdoor Lantern: Compact, lightweight battery-operated lantern lights up campsites and other nighttime environments
- Powerful Illumination: Bright flashlight lantern comes equipped with an easy-to-use push button that allows you to quickly dim or boost...
- Magnetic Quick-Connect Lanyard: Patent-pending hanging system allows you to securely attach this camp lantern to tents, tree limbs,...
Weight: 64 g | Dimension: 10.9 x 8.61 x 6.91 cm | Lumens: 100 lm
Standout features: Ultra-compact, magnetic lanyard hanging system
The UCO Sprout 100 Lumen Hang-Out Mini Camping Lantern is easy to carry because it’s ultra-lightweight, compact, and it comes with a magnetic lanyard system. Its brightest setting is only up to 100 lm (the lowest is at 10 lm). But it does come with a soothing blue Moonlight mode which will set a more pleasant mood while camping. When used at its full capacity, this mini camping lantern can run up to 6 hours and 50 hours on low.
#10. LE Rechargeable Camping Lantern
Brightest Camping Lantern
- Super bright - Brightness up to 1000 lumens, equal to 75W halogen bulbs, suitable for family or other group activities where high...
- Money Saving - Built-in 4400mAh lithium battery allows charging of the lantern via a USB cable. Environmentally friendly and no need to...
- Dimmable & 4 lighting modes - The light colour can be changed to cool white, warm white and neutral white together with a flashing...
Weight: 550 g | Dimension: 9.7 x 8.8 x 19.8 cm | Lumens: 1000 lm
Standout features: Very bright camping lantern, can be used as a power bank
The LE Rechargeable Camping Lantern has a built-in rechargeable 4400mAh lithium battery with 4 lighting modes: cool white, warm white, neutral white, and flashing mode. The brightness can be adjusted by long-pressing the button in the centre of the lamp.
It has a maximum brightness of 1000 lm which is equivalent to 75W Halogen bulbs. This is the brightest camping lamp on the list. For even brighter lighting, the case of the lantern can be unscrewed.
It has a charging time of 8 hours and can last up to 12 hours on its lowest brightness (300 lm). At its fullest, it has a run time of 6.5 hours.