To many, camping is one of the best ways to escape their busy routines. Are you one of them? Great! However, camping without preparation is like swimming in a pool full of piranhas! You should make sure you have all the camping gear you need, including a lantern. Having no light source when you’re out there is the perfect formula to have a bad day. That’s why you should have one of the best solar lanterns for camping! You can leave them outside while enjoying nature and return to it fully charged at night. However, there are many solar-powered lanterns for camping on the market, and some of them aren’t that reliable. Take a look at our list below to make sure you have the best solar lantern for camping!
Table of contents
- TANSOREN LED Solar Lantern
- TISUNTECH Solar Camping Lantern
- CHBKT Solar-Powered Mason Jar Lights
- HISVISION Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern
- BioLite Sunlight Solar-Powered Lantern
- Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Lantern
- MPOWERD Luci Pro Outdoor 2.0
- KIZEN Solar Lantern
- LuminAID Titan 2-in-1 Solar Lantern
- Odoland USB Rechargeable Solar Lantern
- LuminAID Solar Inflatable Lantern
- AGPTEK Solar Lantern
- Solight Design SOLAR PUFF
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Solar Lanterns For Camping
- How many lumens is good for a camping lantern?
- Are solar lanterns worth it?
- Can solar lanterns be in the rain?
TANSOREN LED Solar Lantern
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Let’s start this list with the TANSOREN LED Solar Lantern, one of the best solar lanterns for camping on the market. What we love the most about this lantern is that it has four magnets on the base. This means you can put it on a metal surface, and it won’t fall off easily even though the wind is extremely strong or you accidentally hit it.
Like many other solar-powered lanterns for camping, this lantern also doubles as a power bank for your devices. And when it comes to the battery, it can be charged in three different ways. You can use AA batteries or solar, or plug the lantern into a wall!
Pros
- This lantern is hand-built with military-grade plastic, meaning it’s super durable.
- Aside from camping, it can also be used as a reading light or an emergency kit.
- It allows budget-conscious campers to have a high-quality solar lantern.
Cons
- It’s worth noting that this lantern can only charge Android devices.
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TISUNTECH Solar Camping Lantern
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Up next is the TISUNTECH Solar Camping Lantern, one of the best solar lanterns for camping. What sets this lantern apart from the rest is the fact that it comes with a remote control! With that, you can easily turn on or off the lantern without getting up from your camping air mattress. Sounds convenient, right?
On top of that, we admire this lantern’s durability. It’s tough and completely waterproof, so you don’t have to go crazy when it rains suddenly. What’s more, this lantern can provide light for around 8 to 12 hours. And when it comes to versatility, you can use it to charge your devices and use it as a flashlight.
Pros
- Its indicator light will let you know when the lantern is low on battery.
- We love how small it is, allowing you to save some space and carry it easily.
- It’s much brighter than many other solar-powered lanterns for camping in the same price range.
Cons
- The quality of the remote control can be improved.
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CHBKT Solar-Powered Mason Jar Lights
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“Stunning” is the perfect word to describe the CHBKT Solar-Powered Mason Jar Lights! These lanterns will easily turn your camping base into a fairytale space! We’re sure no other solar-powered camping lanterns can do that. Besides, we love how these lanterns come with metal handles, so you can hang them easily.
These lanterns are more than beautiful. They normally charge in the sun for about five to eight hours. What’s more, they can stay lit for up to 12 hours, which is quite long! Best of all, they have a built-in light sensor that can turn on the lanterns at dusk and off at dawn. We also think they’re great Christmas gifts for campers!
Pros
- These lanterns are waterproof, which is a huge plus when you’re camping on rainy days.
- They’re hands down the most beautiful lanterns available on the market.
- They’re available in a pack of four and are affordable.
Cons
- They only look good when it’s completely dark.
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HISVISION Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern
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Best Budget. Though simple, the HISVISION Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern is one of the most reliable solar lanterns for camping ever! If you want something affordable and do what it’s meant to do well, this is the one. It doesn’t have many bells and whistles, but it can provide you with bright light and solar charge.
Available in four light modes, the solar panel of this lantern is amazing. Even when it’s cloudy, it can still do a decent job of charging the battery. Not to mention, it’s both durable and weather-resistant. And since it’s super compact, you can easily keep it in your backpack or even pocket!
Pros
- It’s light and small enough for camping, backpacking, and other activities.
- Without the bells and whistles, we find this lantern to be easy to use.
- Though durable, it’s still backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Cons
- The power button can be accidentally pressed easily, so you have to be careful.
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BioLite Sunlight Solar-Powered Lantern
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Holding the BioLite Sunlight Solar Powered Lantern feels like you’re holding an ice-cream sandwich. Yep, it’s literally that compact! Just take a look at the picture below! We’re sure you’ll be charmed by its small and unique design. It looks nothing like other solar lanterns for camping on the market. Don’t worry, though, as this lantern has a lot to offer.
Weighing only 3.4 oz, this lantern is one of the most lightweight solar-powered camping lanterns currently available. Small but mighty, we also love the analog sundial found on the corner of the solar panel. You can easily adjust the kickstand depending on the sun’s position as well. Take a look at Trail and Mountain’s review for more detailed information!
Pros
- Thanks to its design and weight, it’s one of the most portable options on this list.
- We find the kickstand to be extremely useful. It’s something that not many lanterns offer.
- The integrated sundial can help you recharge this lantern faster.
Cons
- Though cute, this lantern can’t help you charge your devices.
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Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Lantern
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Best Lightweight. Even an ounce can make a difference if you hate carrying a heavy backpack. Enter the Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Lantern! Weighing just 3.2 oz, this isn’t only one of the lightest lanterns out there but also one of the most popular solar lanterns for camping. Thanks to its compact design, campers can always rely on this lantern.
Apart from that, we’re also huge fans of its light quality. Its warm, yellowish color blends in easily with the campfire. You’ll never feel it’s too bright or out of place like other white LED lanterns. Do you remember that warm light that you turn on when you’re cooking? It has that same coziness and warmth.
Pros
- Unlike traditional LED lanterns for camping, we love how unique and modern the design of this solar lantern is.
- It comes complete with a micro USB cable, so you don’t have to buy one separately.
- It looks way more expensive than it actually is!
Cons
- Sadly, this lantern doesn’t come with a battery indicator that can tell you when it’s low on battery.
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MPOWERD Luci Pro Outdoor 2.0
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The MPOWERD Luci Pro Outdoor 2.0 truly has it all. At 150 lumens, this best solar lantern for camping is one of the brightest on the market. Want to lower it down a little bit at night when you’re chilling inside your pop-up camping tent? Perfect, as its warm white mode never fails to put out that comfy atmosphere.
Aside from that, we’re also impressed by how fast it’s fully charged via solar. Even just from indirect sunlight, this lantern can charge itself so that it can run for a few minutes. As expected from one of the best solar-powered lanterns for camping, it also doubles as a power bank for your smartphone and tablet.
Pros
- It’s available in three colors: Summer Sky, Watermelon, and Clear.
- Even though it’s lightweight, you’ll be surprised by how durable it is.
- You don’t have to worry when it’s raining as this lantern is waterproof.
Cons
- Those on a budget may think twice as it’s on the pricier side.
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KIZEN Solar Lantern
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It’s hard not to like the KIZEN Solar Lantern, one of the most sought-after solar lanterns for camping. This budget-friendly is a great all-rounder. Standard features that you need are all offered. It can be charged via USB, doubles as a power bank, and it’s both lightweight and packable, so you can take it anywhere you want.
Looking for some extra features? We’re sure you’ll be thrilled to know that it’s designed to ensure that it won’t break from overcharging (which is a bad habit of almost everyone). What’s more, it has three light modes, which include options like Low, SOS, and High. No wonder it’s named one of the top solar-powered lanterns for camping.
Pros
- Even though it has many features to offer, it won’t break your wallet.
- This solar lantern is backed by a lifetime warranty.
- It can last up to 10 hours in low-light mode, which is pretty impressive.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a charging indicator, which may be a bummer for some.
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LuminAID Titan 2-in-1 Solar Lantern
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Another great addition to our list of the best solar lanterns for camping is the LuminAID Titan 2-in-1 Solar Lantern. This product is super popular among campers and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the main reasons why is that it’s extremely durable. Compact and lightweight, it’s made with long-lasting TPU and is UV-resistant as well.
Apart from that, this best solar lantern for camping features a handy Red Light Mode. For those wondering, this mode basically allows the lantern to have softer light at night, so you won’t disturb others. Finally, what does “2-in-1” mean? Well, aside from being a useful LED lantern, it can also be used as a phone charger! This lantern is even recommended by Electronics Hub!
Pros
- The strong handle is a huge bonus as it allows you to hang it anywhere you can and carry it around conveniently.
- It’s collapsible and compact enough to keep in your backpack.
- We love how this lantern is backed by a 100-day return policy and a lifetime guarantee program.
Cons
- You have to be extra patient when charging it by solar as it can take almost the whole day.
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Odoland USB Rechargeable Solar Lantern
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With plenty of extra features, the Odoland USB Rechargeable Solar Lantern is worth being called one of the best solar lanterns for camping. One of the features that we fancy is its warm light mode. Thanks to that, you can read your book inside your tent as if you’re at home! What a great addition!
Additionally, this solar lantern also comes complete with a USB port. So, when it’s super dark and cloudy, you don’t have to panic. Simply charge the lantern via USB! Also, we appreciate the charging indicator that lets you know whether it’s charging or not. Affordable and practical, there’s no reason not to get this item.
Pros
- We’re huge fans of the foldable carabiner that lets you clip it on anywhere you want.
- It’s made of high-quality plastic and is more durable than it looks.
- It can be folded down and takes so little space that you can easily store it in your bag.
Cons
- Unlike most solar-powered lanterns for camping, this lantern doesn’t come with instructions.
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LuminAID Solar Inflatable Lantern
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Best Inflatable. You can talk about the best solar lanterns for camping without mentioning the LuminAID Solar Inflatable Lantern! This is your safest bet if you’re searching for inflatable solar-powered lanterns for camping. Of course, what makes this product unique is the fact that it’s inflatable, making it perfect for not only camping but other outdoor activities. In fact, it’s the world’s first-ever inflatable solar lantern!
Seen by many as the best solar lantern for camping, it’s also loved because of its battery life. It can last the whole day when fully charged, which is pretty impressive. But if you’re in a hurry and don’t have much time left, simply use the USB port to charge it quickly. Aside from that, we love how this lantern is waterproof and shatterproof. Talk about being tough as a nail!
Pros
- It has nine beautiful color modes, making your outdoor activities more exciting!
- Aside from being inflatable, it’s also lightweight. That way, you can carry it around easily or store it in your backpack.
- Though lightweight, this solar lantern for camping is one of the toughest on the market.
Cons
- When in color mode, the lantern doesn’t last as long.
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AGPTEK Solar Lantern
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We’re not kidding when we say the AGPTEK Solar Lantern is a monster. Unlike other solar lanterns for camping, this one has up to five different charging methods! It can be charged using AAA batteries, a wall outlet, a car adaptor, or a solar panel, or you can also crank the dynamo. That way, you don’t have to only rely on one method!
Furthermore, this best solar lantern for camping has two brightness modes: Bright Mode and Super Bright Mode. Another reason why we call this lantern a monster is that it can also power your gadget! Yet, it doubles as a power bank, too! What can’t this amazing lantern do?
Pros
- The handle is one of the sturdiest, allowing you to hang the lantern safely.
- Though brighter than many other solar-powered camping lanterns, it consumes less energy.
- It’s one of the most popular options available on Amazon.
Cons
- You have to be extra careful as it’s going to break if you drop it.
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Solight Design SOLAR PUFF
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Best Overall. The Solight Design SOLAR PUFF takes the number one spot! As the best solar lantern for camping, we have nothing but praise for this origami-inspired lantern. Using this lantern is a breeze. All you need to do is just pull the lantern open, and there you have it! What’s more, it can always retain its shape even when punctured. Pretty awesome, isn’t it?
That’s not all, though! Like many other solar lanterns for camping, this affordable lantern comes with a velcro handle. Thanks to that, you can hang it on a branch or anywhere you want. On top of that, its waterproof design makes it one of the most versatile options out there! You can take on any adventure without worrying about a single thing! Read more reviews about this lantern on the brand’s official website!
Pros
- It’s packable and weighs only 2.6 oz, making it an ideal choice for campers and travelers.
- Named one of the top solar-powered camping lanterns, this product is designed without PVC.
- We appreciate how it has three light settings, which include low, high, and blinking.
Cons
- The only drawback of this lantern is that it doesn’t feature a USB port.
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Our Verdict!
Bright, practical, and versatile, our picks are pretty awesome, aren’t they? But picking 1 out of 13 lanterns can be quite challenging. That’s why we’ve categorized some of the lanterns above according to some criteria.
- Best Overall: Solight Design SOLAR PUFF
- Best Inflatable: LuminAID Solar Inflatable Lantern
- Best Lightweight: Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Lantern
- Best Budget: HISVISION Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern
How To Choose The Best Solar Lanterns For Camping
When you’re looking for the best solar lanterns for camping, there are some important things to consider, including:
Lighting modes
Some of the most important considerations are the lighting modes. Most lanterns come with a blue light and several other modes that can range from high to low and even SOS. Having a wide variety of modes is great, as you can use them for different conditions.
Charging modes
Needless to say, all solar lanterns for camping can be charged via solar. However, most options on the market can also be charged via USB, while others use a car adapter or even batteries. For most cases, having USB and solar is more than enough.
Size
From waterproof tents to outdoor carpets for camping, there’s a lot you have to carry. That said, you’ll want your lantern to be as light and as compact as possible. Carrying a heavy and bulky solar lantern will only make your day harder.
How many lumens is good for a camping lantern?
Most lanterns on the market offer something between 150 to 350 lumens. But generally, 100 lumens is more than enough for poking around camp at night.
Are solar lanterns worth it?
Of course! They’re relatively more affordable, eco-friendly, and can save you money! Not to mention, charging them is a breeze.
Can solar lanterns be in the rain?
Fortunately, yes. Most solar lanterns on the market are waterproof. However, you should note that they may not be able to endure a lot of water.
