3 Ways to Pick a Camping Lantern

1. Gas Lantern

Kerosene and gas lanterns have been around for a long time. Newer butane lanterns or propane lanterns have just emerged. The open-flame lanterns are a safety hazard in your tent. These lanterns work best outside in an open area. They are bright and put off a lot of light. These lanterns have a glass or metal sheath around the flame area. This protects you from the lanterns flame. Avoid moving the lantern after just turning it off. Moving the lantern can cause the mantel to break. If the mantel breaks, replace it with a new one according to the lantern's owner's manual. Some lanterns have two mantels, putting out more light. The kerosene and butane lanterns have a refillable canister. A gas lantern puts off the most light among the various types of camping lanterns. The propane lanterns are noisy to operate, and they are expensive if used frequently.

2. Non-Gas Lanterns

Electric lanterns, candle lanterns and battery lanterns are newer types of lantern. Use an electric or battery lantern in your tent because these are safer than an open-flame lantern. They are also safe for use in your car. The electric and battery-powered lanterns do not produce as much light as the open-flame lanterns. If you are concerned with how much the lantern weighs, stay away from a battery-powered lantern. The battery-powered lanterns are heavy, and the extra batteries add extra weight. Battery-powered lanterns are safe and easy for children to use. The battery-powered lanterns are not as effective in the cold. They are not recommended for your cold-weather camping trips.

3. Tricks and Tips

Get extra mantels and fuel sources for your lantern when you purchase the lantern. If you purchase a propane lantern and have a propane stove, the propane canisters are interchangeable. This makes it easy to plan for extra fuel and cuts down on the weight of supplies if the stove and lantern share the fuel. Get a case for your lantern. The glass and mantel are fragile, and a case helps protect them when you are moving your camping gear.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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