We all need a good camping flashlight. From camp games like flashlight tag to safety after dark, you’ll need the best camping flashlight for everyone in your crew.
Sure, headlamps are another option, and lanterns are great for outdoor dining. But you can never have too many choices to shine light on an otherwise dark situation. So, this article will highlight the best camping flashlights, with options for kids, models with rechargeable batteries, and more.
Key Takeaways
- Top Picks by Use Case: The article highlights the best camping flashlights for various needs, including the powerful NEBO Davinci 5,000L (best overall), kid-friendly Storm 65-Lumen, compact Franklin Swivel 600L, and high-output NEBO Davinci 10,000L (best rechargeable).
- Key Buying Factors: It emphasizes important flashlight features for campers—brightness (lumens), durability (especially water resistance and construction materials), battery life, size, and lighting modes.
- Expert Recommendations: A comparison chart and honorable mentions (from brands like Coleman and Princeton Tec) help readers compare options and choose the best flashlight for their camping style.
What Are Good Flashlights for Camping?
Compare our selections for the best flashlights for camping and then use the guide below to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Best Overall Camping Flashlight
NEBO Davinci 5,000-Lumen Flashlight
- Lumens: 5,000
- Length: 10.25”
- Battery Life: 4,500 milliamp hours (mAh)
- Battery Type: USB-C Rechargeable
The Davinci 5000L Flashlight is powerful and feature-packed. It has advanced Core Smart technology, including optimized COB LEDs, Smart Power and Temperature Control, and a Direct-to-Low function for quick, low-output activation. With four versatile lighting modes and 3x zoom, you can fine-tune brightness and beam distance to suit everything from close-up tasks to wide-area illumination. A rear-positioned button simplifies switching modes, while USB-C charging keeps things efficient. Plus, the flashlight can double as a backup portable power bank with an onboard USB-A port. Constructed from lightweight, aircraft-grade aluminum and rated IP67 for water resistance, the Davinci 5000L can perform in rain, mud, or wherever your RV journey takes you.
Best Flashlight for Kids
Storm 65-Lumen LED Composite Flashlight
- Lumens: 65
- Length: 3.6” L
- Run Time: Up to 6.5 hours
- Battery Type: AAA (x3)
The Storm LED Flashlight delivers reliable, focused light wherever your RV adventures take you. With a beam distance of up to 76 meters, it’s great for nighttime walks, roadside checks, or getting around camp. Its efficient Nichia LED never needs replacing, giving you long-lasting performance when needed most. Built to handle the elements, this flashlight is water-resistant up to one meter. It runs on three AAA alkaline batteries, which are included.
Best Rechargeable Camping Flashlight
NEBO Davinci 10,000-Lumen Flashlight
- Length: 10.75”
- Lumens: 10,000
- Battery Life: 5,000 mAh
- Battery Type: USB-C Rechargeable
Built for serious performance in any environment, the Davinci 10,000L Flashlight combines toughness with smart tech. It features optimized lighting, Smart Power and Temperature Control, and a Direct-to-Low startup for instant low-beam access. With a powerful output, five lighting modes, and 2x zoom, you can adjust brightness and beam range on the fly, whether conserving battery or lighting up a large area. Rechargeable via USB-C, the Davinci also doubles as a power bank to keep your other devices charged. Its lightweight, aircraft-grade aluminum construction stands up to rugged use, and with an IP67 waterproof rating, it’s ready for rain, mud, or whatever the campground throws your way.
Best Small Camping Flashlight
NEBO Franklin Swivel 600-Lumen Flashlight
- Lumens: 600
- Length: 3.75”
- Battery Life: 700 mAh
- Battery Type: USB-C Rechargeable
The Franklin Swivel 600L is a compact, rechargeable flashlight built for versatility. It delivers up to 600 lumens in turbo mode, packing serious brightness into a pocket-sized design. A 90° swivel head and magnetic base let you aim the light exactly where you need it—perfect for hands-free tasks around the RV. Its durable steel clip makes it easy to keep within reach, whether tackling repairs or lighting up the trail.
Comparison Chart
Honorable Mentions
- Stansport Cree LED Tactical Flashlight
- Coleman 1900 Collection LED Flashlight
- Princeton Tec LED Pen Light
How To Choose the Best Camping Flashlight
The best camping flashlight performs well in various environments and withstands the rigors of tent or RV camping. Here’s what you should look for in a camping flashlight.
Brightness
A dim flashlight just doesn’t do the job. The brighter your light, the better you’ll be able to see in the dark. LED flashlights are often the best choice when it comes to brightness. They are bright, and you won’t worry about a bulb burning out. These things last a long time and don’t use much power. When comparing flashlight brightness, check the lumens rating. A higher rating equals a brighter flashlight.
Durability and Waterproofing
You can get by with a plastic flashlight, but if you want something to last, look for a metal camping flashlight. Stainless steel and aluminum are best because they offer a much stronger product that can be dropped or stepped on without breaking, in most cases. Aluminum or stainless steel flashlights are typically more expensive, but not always. However, you won’t replace them as frequently or deal with issues like you would with a plastic camping flashlight.
Battery Life or Run Time
Consider how long a flashlight can stay on before recharging or needing new batteries. The best LED camping flashlights win again here, as most boast impressive battery life. The battery will usually last for hours before requiring a charge.
No matter your flashlight’s runtime, keep spare batteries handy. Better yet, make those spare batteries rechargeable, and your camp life will be easier. Plus, you’ll save money and can prioritize other RV essentials.
Size
Choosing one of the best small flashlights for camping is smart. They’re easier to carry and use. However, some prefer a larger flashlight because it can be easier to locate in the dark. The ideal flashlight size is a matter of personal preference. Consider how you camp and how you’ll use the flashlight. A smaller light makes sense if your small camper has limited storage space. If you tow a luxury fifth wheel, you likely have room for a larger one.
Modes or Settings
Many of the best camping flashlights offer multiple light modes and/or dimmable settings. A flashlight with ‘Red Light Mode’ is excellent for retaining your night vision while enjoying added visibility. Dimmable settings allow you to turn down the brightness to suit your needs. Some flashlights for camping will light up your surroundings differently. A smaller, more concentrated beam of light might be preferred for navigating inside a dark camper. However, a wider beam that extends a greater distance will likely be best for night hikes or late trips to the campground facilities.
Other RV essentials make camping safer and more enjoyable. Check out these additional resources:
What’s your favorite camping flashlight brand? Let us know in the comments below!
