Camping is the country’s national pastime any time of the year but this summer more people will be testing their hiking boots, tents, backpacks, water filters but without camping lanterns, all efforts would be naught.

What are They and What and What are they Used For?

Camping lanterns are indispensable camping accessories. They provide illumination and can be used as a beacon at night time to guide other campers.  These lanterns are also versatile and flexible.  These can be hung outdoors or used inside tents and they give off light using kerosene, propane, or batteries.

Camping lanterns are useful for lighting up tents, to see your way in the dark, and to keep unwanted guests away.

* Kerosene powered lanterns are noisy but give off a bright light and a luminous intensity of up to 14 candela running up to 5 hours.  This is also cost-effective.

* Propane lanterns are easy to use and they give off more light.  For refuelling you need to take along extra canisters.

* Rechargeable lanterns have a dual power sources.  When not in use these can be recharged and when the power drains, batteries can relight the lantern with quick efficiency.

Their Advantages/Disadvantages

Kerosene lamps make for great outdoor lighting because the glass globe makes the light wind resistant.  The bigger the lamp, the more light it will give off.  Since this makes a lot of noise and gives off heat, this is not ideal inside cramped tents. But if you are camping in colder places, this is your perfect in-tent lantern.

Propane lanterns are not messy and provide 14 hours of light and there is no need to handle liquid fuel when refuelling but you have to take along propane canisters and make sure these are not exposed to excessive heat or moisture.  Since you can cook on propane stoves, it is convenient to source cooking gas from the propane.

Rechargeable lamps are durable and give off maximum lighting.  This is perfect for lighting up tents. With tons of batteries, there’s no danger of running out of light in the evenings.  You can save on the batteries too by recharging via your pick-up’s cigarette lighter or a 110 volt outlet.

Different Types /Styles / Brands

Coleman, Brunton, Texsport, Outwell, Primus, Black Diamond, Coghlans, Adams, Team Sports America, and Essential Gear have a showcase of quality camping lanterns.  You can find kerosene lamps, rechargeable lamps, and propane lamps in various sizes and illumination levels.  There are also water-proof lamps, candle lanterns for a romantic ambience,

Where to Buy

Camping lanterns can be bought in stores carrying an assortment of camping gears.  The internet is also a rich source of information on outdoor lanterns and it is easier to compare prices and designs with just a click of the mouse before you make a final choice.

Knowing what you need for your camping lantern you’ll end up with an outdoor kerosene lantern and a battery-operated one for the utility and convenience they provide.