Headlamps and lighting

When the sun goes down, a reliable light source can keep your trip going strong. Whether you’re making dinner at the campsite, heading out for a nighttime hike or just trying to find your toothbrush in the dark, the right lighting keeps things safe and simple. At MEC, you’ll find a full range of lighting options to suit every outdoor need, from compact keychain flashlights to high-powered headlamps and versatile lanterns. Choosing the right one depends on how much light you need, how far you plan to carry it and what kind of camping or hiking you’re doing. You can find a wide variety of camping lights from top brands like Black Diamond, Petzl, BioLite and more.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between a headlamp, lantern and flashlight?

A headlamp is worn on your head and provides hands-free lighting that moves with you. It’s great for hiking, running or setting up camp. Lanterns sit on a surface or hang and light up an area in all directions, making them perfect for cooking or relaxing at camp. Flashlights are handheld and offer a focused beam of light, useful for quick tasks or looking into dark corners.

How many lumens do I need for outdoor lighting?

It depends on your activity. For close-up tasks like reading or cooking, 50 to 150 lumens is enough. For hiking or biking at night, look for 200 to 500 lumens. If you need to see far ahead on technical trails or during search-and-rescue tasks, 600 lumens or more might be ideal. Lanterns with around 200 to 400 lumens are great for campsite lighting.

Are solar-powered lanterns reliable?

Yes, solar lanterns work well when they’ve had enough sun to charge. They're best for sunny summer trips and work well for ambient lighting. Some also come with USB charging as a backup. For longer trips or cloudy conditions, it’s smart to bring a secondary light source or a power bank.

Are candle lanterns safe to use?

Candle lanterns add a warm glow and can help keep bugs away with citronella, but they should only be used with care. Always place them on a stable surface, never leave them unattended and don’t use them inside your tent. They’re best for car camping or sheltered picnic tables.

Camping lights buyer’s guide

Headlamps

Headlamps are a favourite for hikers, runners and campers who want hands-free lighting that moves with them. They strap around your head or helmet and point wherever you’re looking, which is ideal for trail navigation or setting up camp after dark. Headlamp brightness is measured in lumens, and models range from about 25 lumens for basic close-up tasks to 1000 lumens or more for rugged terrain and long-distance visibility. Some headlamps come with adjustable brightness levels, red light modes and water resistance so they can handle everything from rainy nights to alpine climbs. If you’re unsure where to start, MEC’s guide to choosing a headlamp explains all the key specs and features.

Lanterns

Lanterns are your go-to for ambient light at camp. Unlike flashlights or headlamps, which cast a focused beam, lanterns spread light in all directions. They’re perfect for lighting up your cooking area, card game or tent without any harsh glare. Lanterns come in a range of styles, from battery-powered models to solar and fuel options. Solar lanterns are a great choice for off-grid camping. Just leave them out in the sun during the day and they’ll glow all night. Some lanterns are collapsible or inflatable to save space in your pack. For a classic feel, candle lanterns provide soft, warm light and can even double as bug repellents when paired with citronella candles.

Flashlights

Flashlights are a useful addition to your lighting kit, especially when paired with a headlamp. They provide a strong beam and are great for quick checks outside the tent, late-night bathroom runs or navigating tricky trails. Many models are compact enough to clip to your pocket or attach to your backpack for easy access. Keychain flashlights and small tactical lights are lightweight and powerful, making them ideal for emergency use or impromptu cave exploring.