It’s no secret that having a fun camping experience is nearly impossible without proper lighting. Thus, you should always be ready for that situation. The easiest way to conquer this problem is to get one of the best propane lanterns for camping. Trust us; they’re some of the most useful camping gear you can get! They’re a great option to generate not only light but also heat. Apart from that, propane is also a safer gas compared to kerosene or other fuels. If you don’t know which best propane lanterns are worth considering, we’re here to help! We’ve handpicked some of the best options on the market. Just keep scrolling and learn more about them!
Table of contents
- Primus Micron Camping Lantern
- Do-cooler Mini Portable Camping Lantern
- Texsport Single Mantle Propane Lantern
- eoocvt Bulin Ultralight Camping Lantern
- Stansport 2-Mantle Propane Lantern
- Coleman Gas Lantern
- Stansport Compact Single Mantle Propane Lantern
- Fire-Maple Camping Propane Lantern
- Coleman One-Mantle Lantern
- Coleman Premium Dual Fuel Lantern
- Coleman Elite Perfectflow Propane Lantern
- Coleman NorthStar Propane Lantern
- Coleman QuickPack Deluxe Propane Lantern
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Propane Lanterns for Camping
- Can you use a propane lantern in a tent?
- Do propane lanterns smell?
- Can an empty propane tank still explode?
Primus Micron Camping Lantern
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The first option on this list is the Primus Micron Camping Lantern, which is specifically made for campers and backpackers. This compact lantern can emit up to 235 lumens. Plus, you can easily adjust the brightness level using the simple knob set above the canister.
Moreover, we love that the stainless steel mesh cage surrounds the flame and shields it from both outside objects and direct human contact. In addition to that, the setup is simple. In fact, there’s no assembly needed. It attaches straight to the gas cylinder! Pretty simple, isn’t it?
Pros
- Weighing only 4.2 oz, it’s one of the most lightweight propane lanterns for camping on the market.
- We appreciate how sturdy the included carrying case is.
- Made of stainless steel, it can easily withstand extreme weather conditions.
Cons
- The globe can get super hot, so you need to be extra careful.
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Do-cooler Mini Portable Camping Lantern
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As you can see from the name and picture, the Do-cooler Mini Portable Camping Lantern is a mini lantern! It can easily rest in your palm. Because of its tiny design, we think it’s a nice choice for campers who want to pack light and already have a lot to carry. Aside from that, it’s also a popular option for hikers and mountaineers.
Often overlooked, this small lantern is actually tough! Made of aluminum and nickel alloy, it’s surprisingly durable. What’s more, it can easily withstand high temperatures. Of course, at 80 lumens, you can’t compare its brightness with other best propane lanterns for camping. While it isn’t the brightness, it’s ideal for those who need a steady light source.
Pros
- Though tiny, this lantern is extremely durable and crush-resistant.
- It comes with a long carrying and hanging chain.
- It comes with a free hard case for transport and extra protection.
Cons
- Not the best option for those looking for extra bright lanterns.
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Texsport Single Mantle Propane Lantern
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Though lightweight and small, the Texsport Single Mantle Propane Lantern can’t be underestimated. This minimalistic lantern has a candle power of 300, meaning it’s super bright for its size. It can effortlessly illuminate a huge area. Adjusting the brightness level is also easy, thanks to its front knob.
As one of the best propane lanterns for camping, this small but mighty lantern can last up to eight hours at its maximum setting. In addition, we’re also huge fans of the handle. The steel handle is wide and sturdy and extremely comfortable to hold.
Pros
- Its plastic base is sturdy and has a paddle-foot design for better stability.
- The durable globe is heat-resistant, so you’ll never see any cracks.
- The front knob also doubles as the on-and-off controller.
Cons
- Some people might be confused as there are no instructions included.
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eoocvt Bulin Ultralight Camping Lantern
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Another super compact option worth considering is the eoocvt Bulin Ultralight Camping Lantern. One of this product’s biggest selling points is that it doesn’t come with a glass globe. So, what does this mean? It means you’ll never have to face breaks or cracks anymore!
When it comes to brightness, this lantern is as bright as an 80-W bulb, meaning it’s the perfect option for solo campers. Aside from that, the piezo ignition system is extremely easy to use. And with its hanging chain, you can easily hang this lantern on a tree branch or anywhere you want.
Pros
- We love how this tiny lantern comes packed in a safe plastic box.
- This lantern is both high-temperature-resistant and corrosion-resistant.
- It’s an ideal option for solo campers.
Cons
- Some people find the hanging chain to be annoying rather than useful.
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Stansport 2-Mantle Propane Lantern
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Best Budget. Affordable and reliable, who doesn’t love the Stansport 2-Mantle Propane Lantern? This inexpensive lantern is the ideal option to light up your camping site. As one of the best propane lanterns for camping, it’s super simple to use. Just use the on-off switch, and you’re done!
Though affordable, this propane lantern is by no means low in quality. Still designed thoughtfully, it features a wide base that slides onto a propane tank. Apart from that, the carrying metal handle is comfy to hold and very sturdy. This is the one if you need something cheap to get the job done!
Pros
- According to the official website, the feet are tip-resistant and slide onto a propane tank easily.
- One of the most affordable options on the market.
- The control knob is easy to use.
Cons
- The propane gas cylinder isn’t included.
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Coleman Gas Lantern
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Apart from LED lights for camping, Coleman also produces amazing propane lanterns. The Coleman Gas Lantern is one of our favorites for rough camping. Despite its compact design, this 300-lumen lantern can burn for a long time. As one of the best propane lanterns for camping, it can operate for over 11 hours on its highest setting. This is even longer than some of the bigger models!
Another highlight of this product is its built-in pressure regulator. Because of this regulator, it can produce a consistent flame and level of brightness regardless of the weather condition and other elements. Apart from that, we also appreciate the impact-resistant casing that comes with it.
Pros
- The metal globe guard offers extra protection from unwanted impacts.
- It features a chain handle that allows you to carry it easily.
- You can get this lantern confidently as it’s backed by a three-year limited warranty.
Cons
- Finding the right mantel for this lantern is pretty challenging.
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Stansport Compact Single Mantle Propane Lantern
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Most Compact and Lightweight. If you want something simple and lightweight, we have the perfect option! Introducing you to the Stansport Compact Single Mantle Propane Lantern! Compared to other propane lanterns for camping, this model is extremely light as it weighs only 1.41 lbs! And at 8 inches in height and 4.5 inches wide, this lantern is also one of the most compact ones, ideal for backpacking and camping.
Another thing that we love about this lantern is its front knob. It looks rather simple but is extremely useful. It gives you full control over how much flame you want, and adjusting the brightness level is a piece of cake. Better yet, the handle features a slight bump in the middle, which is great for preventing tipping when you hang it. Finally, it’s even cheaper than some of the best camping knives!
Pros
- Its tip-resistant base promises this lantern will always stand still on any surface.
- We love its rugged construction and how the globe is heat-resistant.
- Compared to other best propane lanterns for camping, this is one of the cheapest!
Cons
- Sadly, it doesn’t come with a carrying case.
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Fire-Maple Camping Propane Lantern
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Perfect for camping, the Fire-Maple Camping Propane Lantern is another awesome addition to our list of the best propane lanterns for camping. Thanks to its metal and borosilicate glass, this lantern is extremely durable. But despite that, it’s still relatively lightweight.
Another thing that we love about this option is that it’s super easy to use. You need to screw the lamp into the fuel canister, and you’re good to go! Not to mention, it’s extremely versatile! Aside from camping, it’s also good for backpacking, fishing, and other outdoor adventures! If you have questions about this lantern, you can check out the FAQs on its official product page!
Pros
- One of the most versatile options on the market.
- Though durable, this propane lantern is still super lightweight.
- It’s also one of the brightest propane lanterns for camping on the market.
Cons
- Not the most popular option out there.
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Coleman One-Mantle Lantern
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Our top five products are all from Coleman, and what you’re looking at is the Coleman One-Mantle Lantern. As the name implies, this is a one-mantle model. At 700 lumens, it can light up your campsite pretty decently. Apart from that, the front knob offers six different brightness levels.
Furthermore, we really love this lantern’s vintage design. It’s not only pretty, though, as it’s also durable. As one of the best propane lanterns for camping, it feels extra sturdy, and its ventilator is coated with porcelain. This allows the lantern to be rust-resistant. And at its highest setting, it can last for up to six hours.
Pros
- Thanks to the bail handle, carrying and hanging this lantern is easy.
- The globe can resist high temperatures and is durable.
- One of the most popular options on the market.
Cons
- It’s a bit pricey compared to propane lanterns for camping from other brands.
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Coleman Premium Dual Fuel Lantern
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Best for All Seasons. Looking for the best propane lanterns for camping that are perfect for all seasons? Look no further than the Coleman Premium Dual Fuel Lantern! At only 700 lumens, this isn’t the brightest option. However, it can burn longer with less fuel! As a result, you can pack lighter and still have the same effect, saving you money on fuel and weight!
What’s more, this lantern’s beam can reach up to more than 50 feet, which is huge! Despite its size, it can easily light up your whole camping site. Furthermore, we love how its globe is designed to resist high temperatures, so it won’t break or crack easily. Want to know more about this lantern? Check out Gear Know-How’s review!
Pros
- Comes with a highly portable and durable carrying case.
- It allows you to adjust the brightest level easily with its knob.
- It’s backed by a three-year limited warranty.
Cons
- Not as bright as other Coleman propane lanterns.
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Coleman Elite Perfectflow Propane Lantern
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Another awesome addition to our list is the Coleman Elite Perfectflow Propane Lantern. When it comes to the runtime, this item is hard to beat. It can last for up to eight hours in its brightest setting. Unbelievable! In fact, no other Coleman models can last that long on their highest flame setting. That alone should be enough to convince you to get this lantern.
Apart from that, we also love how thoughtful its design is. This sleek propane lantern comes with a long wire handle. That way, you can carry it with ease or hang it anywhere you want. Better yet, the handle can be removed, so the lantern will take up less space when you keep it in your backpack.
Pros
- The porcelain ventilator is rust-resistant, making it perfect for camping and fishing, and hunting trips.
- It produces a consistent light output regardless of the weather condition or altitudes.
- The sturdy plastic base does a great job of keeping the lantern stable.
Cons
- It can sometimes whistle quite loudly, which is disturbing for some.
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Coleman NorthStar Propane Lantern
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What we have here is another option from Coleman. The Coleman NorthStar Propane Lantern is one of the best propane lanterns for camping. First, let’s appreciate its design! It comes with a sturdy base that keeps it stable on any surface, and the upper body dismantles quickly and easily, promising a simple setup.
Furthermore, many buyers have said that it performs consistently regardless of the amount of leftover fuel. And to prevent any cracking, this propane lantern features a globe that’s made for high temperatures. As one of the brightest and most durable options on the market, there’s no reason not to get this lantern.
Pros
- It can last for up to 9 hours on low when powered by a 16.4 oz propane cylinder.
- Installing and dismantling this propane lantern is a breeze, even for first-timers.
- Unlike some cookie-cutter options, the ignition button always works.
Cons
- Unfortunately, the mantels are pretty expensive.
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Coleman QuickPack Deluxe Propane Lantern
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Best Overall. Sitting on the top of our list is the Coleman QuickPack Deluxe Propane Lantern. One of the main reasons why it’s loved by campers is because of how practical it is. Much like its siblings, it can easily illuminate a broad space minus the complicated setup. This mighty lantern’s beam can reach 75 feet, meaning your whole camping site will be lit up effortlessly! Pretty amazing, isn’t it?
So, what else makes this product a “deluxe”? Well, aside from the dual mantles, this propane lantern has a long runtime compared to other propane lanterns for camping in its price range. It can easily last almost eight hours on its highest setting! Speaking of which, adjusting the brightness level is a breeze, as you can simply turn the front knob. By the way, did you know that Coleman also makes some of the best string lights for campers?
Pros
- Thanks to its powerful dual mantles, this lantern is also suitable for other outdoor adventures.
- It performs well in any weather conditions.
- We love its wide base that allows the lantern to be stable on the surface.
Cons
- The protective case is made of plastic and is not that protective.
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Our Verdict!
No matter what your preferences are, all of these propane lanterns for camping are worth your money. However, there’s no denying that some are better than others in some aspects. Below are the standouts according to some criteria!
- Best Overall: Coleman QuickPack Deluxe Propane Lantern
- Best for All Seasons: Coleman Premium Dual Fuel Lantern
- Most Compact and Lightweight: Stansport Compact Single Mantle Propane Lantern
- Best Budget: Stansport 2-Mantle Propane Lantern
How To Choose The Best Propane Lanterns for Camping
Just like when you’re choosing the best propane fire pits for camping, there are some important features you should consider when shopping for propane lanterns. Take a look at the following features!
Number of Mantles
The number of mantles indicates the intensity of the light. That said, there’s a single-mantle lantern and a double-mantle lantern. Normally, the latter is brighter than the former. However, you should note that lighting a few mantles can be quite challenging.
Run Time
You should also consider how long your propane lantern can run on a single tank of gas. Usually, the brighter it burns, the more gas uses. Manufacturers generally will give you the approximated minimum and maximum run time based on the size of the propane tank used.
Size
The best propane camping lanterns are typically small and lightweight. However, you should always consider its size and weight, especially if you have a lot to carry. We also recommend getting a lantern that comes with a carrying case.
Can you use a propane lantern in a tent?
We don’t recommend using a propane lantern inside your pop-up camping tent. When burned, propane releases carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and can be deadly for humans.
Do propane lanterns smell?
Propane lanterns are naturally odorless. However, many manufacturers add a chemical to it, so it has a distinctive odor.
Can an empty propane tank still explode?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. However, they’re uncommon and rarely happen.
