Washington Trails
Association
Trails for everyone, forever
Washington Trails
AssociationTrails for everyone, forever
A headlamp is a must-have — and just the start of lighting options to make your next trip fun and cozy. By Sandra Saathoff
Film director and author Aaron Rose once said, “In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary.”
When we walk away from daily life to find adventure in the forest, we’re generally leaving behind modern conveniences like electricity, but good lighting is essential. Whether for navigation after dark, meal prep or reading before bedtime, we can’t count on the sun to be up when we need it. More than that, lighting can transform a spot in the woods into a fun fantasy land. Whether your next trip is to a state park campground or a snowy ridge in the backcountry, this guide will give you some fun options and practical tips to help you choose the perfect lighting for your adventure.
Headlamps are indispensable for any trip. Their hands-free design and directional lighting make them ideal for setting up tents, preparing meals and nighttime trips to the bathroom. Here are some key features to consider.
Brightness: Lumens are a measure of brightness — 150-400 is typically sufficient for camp and trail needs.
Adjustability: Look for adjustable straps, beam angles and color. A red-light option is kinder to your night vision.
Power source: Options include disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries or solar-power chargers. Rechargeable or solar may be more cost-effective in the long run, but make sure you have enough charge or charging opportunities for your needs. Fresh disposable batteries will likely last for a weeklong trip, but extra batteries can be helpful just in case. And keep in mind that batteries drain faster in the cold. If your device is rechargeable, consider bringing a backup battery.
Lanterns provide ambient, 360-degree lighting, making them ideal for group settings and larger areas. They can be great for illuminating tents, picnic areas and campsites after dark for meals, games or ghost stories. Here are a few options to consider.
Battery-powered lanterns: These come in a variety of sizes and can be a great option for car camping. Modern LED versions can run for 100+ hours on a single set of batteries and often feature multiple brightness settings. Some models include night vision-saving red-light modes, which also avoid attracting insects!
Rechargeable lanterns: These come in various sizes and eliminate the battery-swapping requirement, often proving more cost-effective in the long run. Many feature USB-charging capability for pre-trip prep and built-in power banks to charge up devices while you’re on the go.
Solar-powered LED lanterns: These have revolutionized eco-friendly camp lighting and have several advantages over the other two options — but a cloudy week in the spring may not be the best conditions for this option. Some solar options include dual-charging capabilities — USB being a secondary charging option — for reliability. They are generally lightweight and can even be collapsible to save pack space. Some models even float.
Gas-powered: While gas-powered lanterns are an option, they are not ideal due to fire concerns in most seasons.
Now we get to the fun stuff! String lights can add charm to campsites, transforming them into woodsy fairylands. They can also be practical, illuminating shared spaces and defining pathways. Depending on the product, they may be more appropriate for car camping than backpacking, but there are some smaller, lighter options that could be suitable for a weekend backpacking trip. (Just don’t forget to take them down when you leave and ensure the light won’t bother your neighbors.) Here are some things to consider.
Light output: Many models offer two or three brightness settings. LED models can provide comfortable ambient lighting without harsh glare and come in white or color options.
Power source: Solar and battery-powered options are available. Solar models often include backup USB charging. Battery versions often run 20 to 40 hours on AA or AAA batteries. Some newer models feature rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Durability: Waterproof designs are important for outdoor use, especially when good weather is not guaranteed. Commercial-grade wire coating helps prevent UV damage over time.
Portability: Look for models with storage bags or built-in spools to prevent tangles.
Soft, diffused light can transform a tent into a cozy cave, providing a comfortable environment for reading, organizing gear or socializing. Popular configurations include integrated LED strip systems that run along tent seams, battery-powered light bars that attach to tent poles, rechargeable hanging panels and flexible LED ropes. Considerations include the following.
Weight: Tent lighting options do add weight to the camp system. When car camping, this is not a big deal. It can
be when backpacking, so look at the product specs before purchasing.
Light distribution: Think about your goals for adding tent lighting. LED strips can offer consistent coverage. Diffused covers provide soft, ambient light. Adjustable positioning can help to direct light where it is needed.
Mounting options: Some lights are integrated into specific tent models. Others are add-ons. In that case, adjustable hooks or clips, adhesive strips or hanging loops can help with setup.
When car camping, especially with kids, it can be fun to mix and match. Using a combination of lighting types — headlamps for tasks, lanterns for ambiance, string lights for decoration — can make for a cozy campsite. Additional lighting options like shake or crank lights or battery-powered glow lights can be fun for children — and adults.
Lighting can make or break an outdoor adventure. By understanding the various options and choosing the ones appropriate for your situational needs, you’ll set yourself up for a fun and safe trip. Whether you’re backpacking through rugged terrain or enjoying a weekend family camping trip, the right illumination options can make your trip extraordinary.
