Headlamps & Camp Lighting
Hands-free light is the single most-used piece of gear after your tent. Every camper needs one.
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Why This Gear Matters
Headlamps beat flashlights for cooking, bathroom trips, and setting up camp after dark. Look for red-light mode (preserves night vision), USB rechargeability, and at least 200 lumens for general camp use.
Good, Better, Best
| Tier | Product | Why We Like It | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Good | Energizer LED Headlamp PRO (2-Pack) | Basic, cheap, runs on AAA batteries. Gets the job done. | $12–18 | Amazon |
| Better | Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp | Reliable workhorse — bright, waterproof, red night vision mode. | $45–55 | Amazon |
| Best | Petzl Actik Core 600 Headlamp | Rechargeable core battery + AAA backup. 600 lumens, excellent beam pattern. | $65–75 | Amazon |
Pro Tips
- Bring one headlamp per person. Sharing never works.
- Hang a lantern in the tent for ambient light — headlamps are too direct.
- Pack extra batteries even for USB models.