Top 10 | Best Hiking Flashlight [2021 Backpacking Flashlight Reviews]

Are you looking for the best backpacking flashlight to take on your upcoming outdoor adventures? Check out these backpacking torch reviews to find the best hiking flashlight possible!

bestbackpackingflashlight-7927518

I hope the coming buying guide helps you find the best backpacking flashlight possible.

Spend 24 hours in the great outdoors and you soon realize the benefits of having access to the best backpacking flashlight possible.

Without one, you’re operating blind as soon as the sun sets and nighttime rolls around! It makes everything from setting up camp to seeing the trail at night impossible- not to mention dangerous.

Are you on the hunt for a backpacking torch to take on your next trip? Well, I thought I’d try to help by diving into the best hiking flashlights out there.

Sound good?

Keep reading for 10 comprehensive backpacking flashlight reviews to help you find the best flashlights for camping, hiking, and travelling on the market.

[Last Updated: February 2021]


Heads up, this post contains affiliate links.


Best Backpacking Flashlight – Summary Table

besthikingflashlights-3956372

Weight: 3.2oz

Size: 3.94 x 1.57 x 1.57”

Beam: 1000 LM

Batteries: 3x AAA

Rating: 4.6/5

Price:

bestflashlightforcamping-9150291

Weight: 3.5oz

Size: 4.80 x 1.00 x 1.00”

Beam: 200LM

Batteries: 3x AAA

Rating: 4.8/5

Price:

backpackingflashlightreviews-8176497

Weight: 3.2oz

Size: 1.60 x 2.00 x 1.60”

Beam: 165LM

Batteries: 3x AAA

Rating: 4.7/5

Price:

backpackingtorch-1627330

Weight: 0.8oz

Size: 3.54 x 0.59 x 0.59”

Beam: 150 LM

Batteries: 1x AAA

Rating: 4.5/5

Price:

bestflashlightsforcamping-4771486

Weight: 6.2oz

Size: 5.35 x 1.33 x 1.33”

Beam: 1000LM

Batteries: 3x AAA

Rating: 4.7/5

Price:

lightweightflashlight-6678063

Weight: 3oz

Size: 1.60 x 2.00 x 1.60”?

Beam: 200LM

Batteries: 3x AAA

Rating: 4.6/5

Price:

bestflashlightforhiking-9321094

Weight: 5.1oz

Size: 6.10 x 1.57 x 1.57”

Beam: 1040LM

Batteries: 3x AAA

Rating: 4.7/5

Price:

bestflashlightcamping-5032954

Weight: 3.2oz

Size: 3.70 x 1.02 x 1.02

Beam: 300LM

Batteries: 1x AA

Rating: 4.4/5

Price:

besthikingflashlight-3172127

Weight: 3.0oz

Size: 4.88 x 1.77 x 1.26”

Beam: 8LM

Batteries: Rechargeable

Rating: 4.5/5

Price:

bestcampingflashlight-3386020

Weight: 12oz

Size: 6.54 x 1.30 x 1.30”

Beam: 3000LM

Batteries: 1x 18650

Rating: 4.3/5

Price:


goodflashlight-3682548

Get ready for 10 backpacking flashlight reviews. Check them out to find the best flashlight for hiking, backpacking, camping, and travel.


You Might Also Like…


The Best Hiking Flashlights, Best Backpacking Flashlights, & Best Camping Flashlights:

10 Backpacking Flashlight Reviews

1. Amuoc-ZZ LED S1000 (Best Compact LED Flashlight)

KEY FEATURES

Functional, Versatile Design

If you’re looking for a small, light-weight backpacking flashlight that packs a punch, then look no further than the Amuoc S1000.

Its high-lumen LED bulb will illuminate objects as far away as 1000 feet! That’s not bad for a flashlight that’s smaller than your mobile phone.

It boasts 5 functions too: high-beam, mid-beam, low-beam, strobe, and SOS, which you control with a simple tap of a button.

Want to adjust the beam? No worries. A sliding mechanism at the top enables you to concentrate the light as required.

Pushing it outwards will narrow the beam and shine it further; slide it backward and you’ll have a wider beam to illuminate a larger space. Rotating the head is also said to adjust the focus.

Budget-Friendly, Well-Made, Durable, & Waterproof

For a backpacking torch that costs under $10, the Amuoc boasts incredible build quality. The body is made from an aerospace aluminium alloy that makes it both strong and light-weight.

The benefits don’t stop there, though.

This camping torch will hold up well in any weather conditions- from extreme cold (as low as 14°F/-10°C), to intense heat, and heavy rainfall. That’s good news for anybody who backpacks in tough environments.

Throw in its non-slip design and durable, abrasion-resistant materials, and you can trust that this flashlight won’t let you down.

Top-Rated Lightweight Flashlight

All of these positive qualities help explain the Amuoc’s popularity online.

With almost 5,000 reviews, scoring an average of 4.8/5 is seriously impressive. It just goes to show how satisfied customers were with their purchase.

All told, the Amuoc’s hard to beat in terms of power, build-quality, and general functionality.

PROS

  • Includes a wrist strap to stop you dropping it
  • Non-slip handle
  • Dual-battery compatible (allows 3xAAA batteries or a single 18650 battery)
  • High-quality materials
  • Fully waterproof (IPX6) & explosion-proof
  • Versatile design
  • Cost-effective

CONS

  • Batteries not included

2. Hatori LED Mini Flashlight (Best Ultralight Backpacking Flashlight)

KEY FEATURES

Ultra-Small and Lightweight Design

Ultralight backpackers will love this Hatori flashlight.

It’s tiny! At 3.55 inches long and 0.59 inches in diameter, it’s smaller than the average pen and will fit in your pocket with ease. Weighing an impressive 0.8oz, you won’t even know it’s there.

Functional and Durable

Despite its size, though, the Hatori still packs an impressive 150 lumens.

At full power, you’ll get two hours of constant use from it, which is by no means amazing, but not too bad for a small torch.

The aluminium alloy body makes it durable as well. It should withstand reasonable wear and tear without getting damaged. Sun, rain, or snow, the Hatori should cope well in any conditions.

A pocket clip on the side’s a nice little touch too.

You can use it to keep this tiny torch in place and on your person- a big deal when you consider how easy it’d be to lose! The pocket clip has another functional advantage: you could attach the torch to a cap to use as a head-torch, illuminating an area while keeping your hands free.

Once again, there’s an anti-slip design to help you keep hold of it in bad weather.

No-Risk Purchase

Best of all as far as finances are concerned, the Hatori would be a 100% risk-free purchase.

For one thing, it’s cheap as chips. At under $8, you get a lot of bang for your buck! If that wasn’t enough, though, there’s a 100% satisfaction guarantee in place.

Try it out and realize you don’t like it?

Send the torch back within 90 days and get your money back- no questions asked.

PROS

  • Super cheap
  • Super lightweight flashlight
  • Super small
  • Pocket clip for storing/keeping in place
  • Anti-slip design
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee

CONS

  • Easy to lose
  • Batteries not included
  • Cannot be fully submerged in water

3. GearLight LED S1000 (2 Pack) (Best Hiking Flashlight)

KEY FEATURES

Highly Functional and Versatile

The GearLight S1000 bears a lot of resemblance to the Amuoc above.

It’s got a powerful 1000 lumen beam that’s 10x brighter than incandescent alternatives. It’s powered by 3x AAA batteries (or 1x rechargeable battery). And it has the same 5 settings (high-beam, mid-beam, low-beam, strobe, and SOS).

This torch is fully-waterproof too, with an adjustable beam intensity (via a sliding upper section), and an on/off/mode-change button at the back.

The only real difference is that the GearLight’s slightly longer and heavier. In every other way, though, it boasts all of the same backpacking torch benefits as the Amuoc.

Durable/Built-to-Last

You’ll struggle to find a hiking flashlight that’s as well-made and long-lasting as the GearLight.

Constructed with high-grade aluminium alloy, it’s strong, lightweight, durable, and (supposedly) near-indestructible. You get a reliable and functional flashlight that can be used in all weather conditions, without letting you down.

Awesome Value & Highly-Rated

The Gearlight’s another cost-effective backpacking torch that’s hugely popular online.

As a bestselling item, the torch has over ten thousand reviews to its name- 80% of which are 5*. That’s a whole lot of happy customers. Once again, this torch is clearly doing something right.

Another component of its popularity is the value for money on offer.

This is actually a two-pack product! Keep one for yourself and put another in the car (or in the office, or gift it to a friend…), and still spend well under $20. It’s true that the batteries aren’t included, but you do get a carry case/holster with each torch too.

Finally, the US company that sells this torch offers a 12-month guarantee. The result? Buy the GearLight torch comes at zero financial risk.

PROS

  • Includes 2 torches and carry cases
  • Awesome value for money
  • Fully waterproof
  • Shockproof (withstands 10ft drop)
  • Anti-slip handle
  • Virtually indestructible
  • 12-month warranty

CONS

  • Batteries not included
  • Two torches in the packet- you might only want one!

bestfocusedbeamflashlight-5640485

Get ready for 5 more of the best focused beam flashlight options out there.

4. Meco LED Crank Flashlight (Best Emergency Flashlight)

KEY FEATURES

Rechargeable, Reliable Design

The Meco LED crank flashlight is a totally different style of torch to others on this list.

Rather than running on batteries, you wind a crank on the side, which charges a dynamo. That, in turn, delivers the juice required to use the torch. Crank it for 6 minutes and you’ll get a whopping 60 minutes of light! That’s awesome for a mini torch with a tiny crank.

Don’t fancy cranking it? Turn the solar panel to the light and let it charge like that instead.

You’re never going to get the same strength beam (this is listed as 8 lumens!), of course. You will, however, get a reliable torch that wouldn’t let you down in an emergency. After all, there’s no danger of batteries running flat when you need them!

Small, Lightweight, Well-Designed, and Durable

The Meco’s pretty small and lightweight too, which makes it perfect for backpacking. At 3oz (86g), you can stick it on/in your bag and won’t even know it’s there.

I also like the carabiner clip design at its rear-end. You can attach it to your belt or backpack with no fear of losing it. The flashlight’s always available and ready to use when you need it.

One thing I’m less keen on is the material though. Other torches on this list are made from aluminium, which makes for a higher-quality, better-looking end-product.

By comparison, the Meco’s made from a hard-wearing plastic that looks tackier and more toy-like.

You can’t really complain though!

That plastic’s still going to be durable enough to withstand the rough and tumble of the trail, road, or campsite. And all that for just over $10.

Risk-Free Purchase

Worried about losing those 10 bucks? Don’t be! This flashlight is 100% guaranteed by the company, meaning you can get your money back if you want to.

Overall, this is a good-quality and cost-effective emergency flashlight that any backpacker’s sure to find value in. My suggestion?

Buy it as a back-up flashlight alongside a brighter one. You’d be covering all bases and ensure you have access to a light source when you need it.

PROS

  • Rechargeable battery
  • Solar panel
  • Small and lightweight
  • Highly-rated
  • 100% guarantee

CONS

  • Low lumens (not very bright)
  • Made from plastic
  • Waterproof?

5. MagLite XL50 LED Tactical Flashlight (Best Focused Beam Flashlight)

KEY FEATURES

Classic Flashlight

If you’re looking for a high-quality flashlight from a renowned brand, then the MagLite XL50 ticks all the right boxes. This US brand is, quite simply, iconic and a leading figure in this industry.

That reputation comes at a tangible cost- the XL50 is one of the most expensive torches on this list. But you definitely get what you pay for!

At 200LM it’s not the brightest torch on this list, but you can expect impressive build-quality, incredible craftsmanship, all-weather reliability, and a corrosion-resistant design that more than makes up for it.

Throw in three modes (flick between them using the on/off button at the back), an adjustable beam, and impressive battery life (6h45 high beam/25h low) and you’ve got a great all-around flashlight.

Small, Lightweight & Tough

This MagLite has the trifecta of backpacking flashlight quality:

It’s small, lightweight, and hard-wearing. In other words, it’s everything you need in a travel torch!

A precision-machined aluminium alloy case, high-grade rubber seals, anodized materials (on the inside and out), and the MagLite name all stack up to a quality, durable flashlight.

Complete Package

The MagLite boasts a few noteworthy features/inclusions as well.

For one thing, you get red, green, and blue coloured lenses to fit into the torch. These enable you to change the colour of the light according to your needs. The result?

Newfound tactical versatility to accommodate the situation you’re in. The package also has a detachable clip and the batteries are included!

That’s a nice touch that adds to the convenience of this purchase.

PROS

  • Made in the US
  • Reputable brand
  • NTOA (National Tactical Officers Association) certified
  • Adjustable beam
  • Versatile
  • Water-resistant (IPX4)
  • Batteries included
  • Reputable MagLite Warranty

CONS

  • Expensive
  • Not fully waterproof

6. Outlite S1000 LED (Best Flashlight for Camping)

KEY FEATURES

Top-Quality, Highly-Rated, Functional Design

The Outlit S1000 is another backpacking flashlight is another small, light-weight backpacking flashlight that’s well-made, boasts a powerful beam, and would stand up well to the rigours of the great outdoors.

Smaller than your smartphone, it’ll bang out a mighty 1000LM and rotate through those 5 familiar settings: high-beam, mid-beam, low-beam, strobe, and SOS, which you control with a simple tap of a button.

Adjust the LED beam with a clever sliding mechanism at the top.

Just like the Amuoc at the start, you can slide it up and down to concentrate the light as required. Unlike the Amuoc, though, you’ve got your batteries included for the task, and two torches for the price of one!

Cost-Effective, Durable, & Waterproof

This Outlite package offers outstanding value for money.

For under $14, you get not one, but two of these torches- with the batteries included! That’s insane.

You can put one in your backpack and keep another at home, or in your car- of gift it to your backpacking companion.

It boasts high-level build quality too. The body’s made from an aluminium alloy that can survive a 10-ft drop, while still weighing just 6.3oz (179g).

These camping torches hold up well in any weather conditions and all extreme environments. Throw in the non-slip design and durable, abrasion-resistant materials, and this really is an incredible offer all-around.

Popular & Highly-Rated

It’s no wonder the Outlite’s so popular online! With over 800 reviews, it scores 4.8/5 on average. That’s a whole lot of satisfied customers.

All told, torch scores supremely in terms of affordability, versatility, power, build-quality, and general functionality.

PROS

  • Includes a wrist strap to stop you dropping it
  • Non-slip handle
  • Dual-battery compatible (allows 3xAAA batteries or a single 18650 battery)
  • High-quality materials
  • Waterproof (IPX5)
  • Versatile design
  • Cost-effective
  • Batteries included

CONS

  • Pack of two- you might only want one!

7. J5 Tactical V1-Pro LED (Best Flashlight for the Money)

KEY FEATURES

Versatile & Functional Design

The J5 Tactical V1-Pro is another front-runner for the best backpacking flashlight on this list.

It’s certainly one of the most popular (more on this later).

You could understand why as well. It’s another high-quality torch that brings together all the qualities you want. The J5’s well-made from quality materials, durable, and versatile, while remaining small, lightweight, and budget-friendly.

This time you’ve got 3 settings to move between: high-beam, low-beam, and strobe. The design is zoomable too, where the torch front slides forward to concentrate the beam.

It boasts a superior battery life (one review listed 12 hours) and can survive a 9-ft drop- not to mention being frozen, run over in a truck, and used in all weather conditions without breaking.

Hugely Popular Online & Risk-Free Purchase

Given its credentials, it’s no surprise how popular this tactical torch is online. It’s got more than 15,000 reviews, 10,500 of which are 5*.

It isn’t rated as highly as a couple of others on this list, but it’s still an impressive bit of kit that’s left the vast majority of customers very happy.

Even if you weren’t fully satisfied, the 100% satisfaction guarantee (from a US company) means it’s a risk-free purchase! They’ll replace or refund it at your request.

For its cost-effectiveness, versatility, top-notch build-quality, and tactical utility, this is another lightweight backpacking torch that’s up there with the best.

PROS

  • Small & Lightweight
  • High-powered for its size
  • Pocket clip
  • Powered by single AA battery (or 14500 rechargeable battery)
  • 3 mode settings
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • US Based Company
  • Long battery life (12 hours)

CONS

  • Batteries not included
  • 300LM only with the 14500 rechargeable battery- more like 150 with AA

ultralightbackpackingflashlight-4842729

Still not found the backpacking flashlight you want? Here are 3 more you might like…

8. Opamoo Flashlight Review P50 Rechargeable LED Flashlight

KEY FEATURES

Versatile and Functional Design

Providing an impressive 3000LM, the Opamoo is undoubtedly the most powerful torch on this list.

I mean, it’s designed to light up objects that are 500 metres away! That’s a crazy beam length for a flashlight that’s only 6.5inches long and good news whenever you’re in need of a light source on the trail, road, or campsite.

It’s definitely a bit bigger and heavier than the others though.

12oz and 6.5inches might be too heavy and long for some ultralight backpackers. If you’ve got the space, though, you’re sure to appreciate the power, functionality, and versatility it provides.

In particular, you’ll appreciate its 5 modes (high-beam, mid-beam, low-beam, strobe, and SOS), the zoomable design (to concentrate/expand the beam), and the aluminium material that makes it strong, shockproof, and durable.

Durable & Weather-Proof

The aluminium we just talked about is worth another mention.

This isn’t any ordinary material! It’s military-grade aluminium-alloy. In other words, it’s the real deal! Expect a hardy, long-lasting piece of kit that can withstand heavy treatment on the trail.

It’s got an IP65 waterproofing-level as well, which means you can use it in all weather conditions. Just avoid submerging the Opamoo where possible- it’s unlikely to keep that amount of water out.

USB Rechargeable

One charge of the Opamoo P50 will provide 6 hours of use. Now, that’s not bad, but it’s definitely not as long as other torches on this list.

However, one major advantage of the Opamoo is the ability to charge it on the go.

With a powerbank (or something similar), you can plug it in via a USB cable (this is included) and recharge it. When those 6 hours are almost up (a battery-level indicator above the power button shows you this), simply plug it in and charge it back up!

That removes the inconvenience of having to buy/carry spare batteries.

My final thoughts?

This is another popular, top-rated flashlight that’d be an awesome addition to your backpack. Powerful, strong, and versatile, it’s everything you’d need- assuming you don’t mind carrying a larger and heavier torch when you’re out and about.

PROS

  • Hugely powerful beam (500m!)
  • USB rechargeable
  • Battery level power indicator
  • All-weather use (IP65 waterproof level)
  • Zoomable design
  • 5 modes to switch between
  • Durable design & materials
  • Anti-slip design & wrist-strap provided

CONS

  • Heavier than others on the list
  • 6 hour battery life isn’t as long as others
  • Can’t submerge underwater

9. Foxelli MX20 LED Headlamp (Best Travel Torch)

KEY FEATURES

Functional & Great All-Rounder

I wanted to mix things up a bit by including a head torch in this list as well.

And the Foxelli MX20 seemed like the perfect one to start with. I reckon it’s everything you could want in a budget-friendly backpacking head torch.

First off, it’s a small and super lightweight torch that even ultralight backpackers could justify carrying in their packs.

Yet it’s highly functional too, with a 165LM beam that’s perfectly adequate for most outdoor jobs and IPX5 waterproofing that makes it well-suited to inclement weather conditions.

With a comfortable, elasticated head-band, 5 modes (low-beam, mid-beam, high-beam, red beam, and strobe), and an incredible 45 hours battery life, the Foxelli’s very hard to fault indeed.

Budget-Friendly & Versatile

You get all that functionality and the 3xAAA batteries for under $10 as well, which is crazy value for money!

Furthermore, with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and lifetime warranty, there’s no risk involved here either. Simply send the Foxelli back and get a full refund if you don’t like the head torch/it isn’t quite what you need.

Okay, so it’s cheap, cheerful, and has an epic returns policy.

But it’s a versatile flashlight too. First off, like any head torch, it means you can keep your hands free when you’re using it- that’s a big deal when you’re in the great outdoors and trying to multi-task.

Throw in the red light mode (that’s easier on your eyes, won’t ruin your night vision, and helps you avoid detection) and the 45° tilting body, and you’re onto a winner.

Highly Rated & Popular Design

All the attributes I’ve just mentioned might sound too good to be true.

But the online reviews and ratings back the Foxelli up. With over 4,400 five-star reviews and an average 4.7/5* over 5,580+ reviews, you can buy this backpacking torch with confidence.

The only downsides I observed pertain to the batteries. Some past customers noted that (far from the 45 hours described in the listing) you get more like 4 to 6 hours of constant use on full beam.

Overall, though, this would make an awesome backpack flashlight by most peoples’ standards.

PROS

  • Batteries included
  • Head torch keeps hands free
  • Best travel flashlight on this lis
  • 5 different modes
  • Cost-effective
  • Small & Lightweight
  • Tiltable body
  • Waterproof (IPX5)
  • Long battery life (45 hours)
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • Thousands of happy customers

CONS

  • Beam strength isn’t the best (165LM)
  • Not adjustable/zoomable
  • Can’t fully submerge
  • Potential phantom battery drain (batteries leak power even when turned off)

10. Vont Spark LED (2 Pack) (The Best Small Flashlight)

KEY FEATURES

Functional & Great All-Rounder

Want an alternative head torch to the Foxelli? Look no further than the Vont Spark.

It looks epic and, perhaps, even better than all-around than the Foxelli before it. Why?

Well, once again, it’s a small and super lightweight torch that ultralight backpackers would love. Then there’s the high-functioning 200LM beam, IPX5 waterproofing, and a durable design that’ll stand up to rough treatment.

You’ll enjoy a comfortable, adjustable, and elasticated head-strap that shouldn’t slip or require readjustment over time.

Throw in its 7 modes (a white-light low-beam, mid-beam, high-beam, and strobe; a red beam low-beam, strobe beam, and SOS), and a staggering 90 hours battery life, and you being to see why the Vont is such an exceptional torch!

Budget-Friendly & Versatile

Okay, so you don’t get the 3x AAA batteries included.

But with not one, but two torches included (and all the high-level functionality we just described) for under $14, this is another amazingly budget-friendly flashlight.

It’s got that prized lifetime warranty again as well, meaning there’s no risk involved here either.

You’ll enjoy 24/7 customer support and a no-questions-asked returns policy that’s backed by Amazon. Just like the Foxelli above, simply send the Vont back in and get a full refund if you want/need it.

The Vont also offers a similar (if not more extensive) level of functionality to the Foxelli.

There’s the obvious hands-free nature that’s a boon for multi-tasking. But then you’ve got the red light mode that you can use in low-beam, strobe, and/or SOS mode, and the same 45° tilting body.

Highly Rated & Popular Design

The Vont head torch isn’t quite as popular as the Foxelli online. With a 4.8/5* average over 2600+ reviews, though, it does have a slightly better rating.

It isn’t hard to see why. I mean, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck!

You’d be buying two lightweight torches, both of which boast durable, functional, and versatile designs, up to 90 hours of battery-life, and a range of useful settings that’d be great for backpacking.

Now, the batteries aren’t included and you’ve got no choice but to buy two of these torches.

But, all things considered, this is an awesome deal.

PROS

  • Incredible value for money
  • Extremely small & lightweight
  • 7 different modes
  • Waterproof (IPX5)
  • Epic battery life (90 hours)
  • Tiltable body
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Durable design

CONS

  • Pack of two torches- you might only want one!
  • Batteries not included
  • Not fully submergible

besttraveltorch-9112212

Below you’ll find 6 key considerations to help you choose the best travel torch possible.


Don’t Forget to Check Out…


Best Backpacking Torch Buying Guide:

How to Choose the Best Flashlight for Backpacking

Picking the best backpacking torch isn’t as simple as you might expect! Multiple factors separate a good flashlight from bad ones.

Here are a few considerations to keep in mind when going about your search. They should help you pick the perfect backpacking flashlight for your needs.

1. Flashlight Size and Flashlight Weight

Space and weight are two primary concerns for backpackers, hikers, campers, and travellers alike.

After all, you have to fit every bit of gear you want to take into a single backpack that you have to lug around for hours (and days) at a time.

Smaller, lightweight items are always going to be preferable!

The flashlight you pick should be the same. Consider its size and weight to make sure you have space (and will) to bring it along.

2. Best Hiking Torch Durability

Campsites, hiking trails, and any outdoor experiences can be rough on your gear.

Any number of things can test their mettle! They get dropped, thrown around, beaten up in your bag, and so on.

That’s why the durability of your backpack flashlight is so important.

Anything that’s too flimsy or poorly-made is going to break, which is the last thing you want for key bits of kit like this. When the sun goes down, you need a torch that won’t let you down.

Always look for high-quality materials, great build-quality, and all-around durability.

3. Waterproofing

Whether the rain comes down or there are rivers to cross, some backpacking trips turn into wet affairs! That’s where a flashlight’s level of water-resistance comes into play.

Most of them have rubber seals that deliver a degree of waterproofing. But there are definite differences between products.

Look for their IPX rating to distinguish how they’d cope with inclement weather:

  • IPX4 is the lower end of the scale, but should still be okay in light rain.
  • IPX5 should stand up to heavy downpours; the same goes for IPX6.
  • IPX7 is the real deal and can be submerged in up to 1m of water (FYI, lower IPX levels shouldn’t be submerged).
  • IPX8 is fully-waterproof. You could swim in the ocean with it and it’d still be okay!

4. Best Flashlight for Night Hiking Battery Life

Size, weight, and durability aren’t everything though.

It’s all well and good having a small, lightweight, and unbreakable travel torch. But it’s still pointless extra weight if the battery lets you down.

Imagine being in a night-time emergency only to discover your flashlight’s gone flat!

Pay attention to the maximum battery life of the torches that take your fancy and ensure they deliver enough juice. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having light when you need it and spend less on spare batteries too.

Being able to dim your torch makes a difference here as well. Using less light helps preserve your battery! You’ll be able to use it for longer as a result.

5. Beam Brightness & Distance (AKA the “Throw”)

The power of your torch is, of course, all-important.

There’s nothing more frustrating than a weak beam! When you’re out and about in the pitch black, you want a flashlight that’ll light the way with ease.

Higher lumen counts mean brighter beams. Rechargeable lithium batteries deliver the biggest punch, with AA batteries coming second-best and AAA third.

Think about your particular needs and pick a brightness to suit it.

Look for adjustability too though.

Some torches allow for a degree of ‘zoomability’ that impacts the throw. By pushing, pulling, or twisting a certain mechanism, you can concentrate or widen the beam as required.

Concentrated beams are more intense but narrower in nature; wider beams are the opposite, enabling you to flood a larger area with light. There’s a time and a place for both!

6. Best Travel Flashlight Budget

Most of the backpacking torches on this list are exceptionally cost-effective!

However, there’s still some variability in price that’s worth considering. Everything from the brand, materials, beam strength, versatility, and durability of the product comes into play.

As always, though, higher-quality torches from better-known brands cost more.

Try to find one that a) satisfies your camping flashlight requirements and b) falls within budget!

Be aware that spending more than you’d planned to may pay off in the long run. You tend to get what you pay for, which means cheaper torches can lack the quality of pricier options.

Investing in a better hiking flashlight upfront ensures you get a more effective, durable, and longer-lasting product.


Time to Choose the Best Flashlight for Hiking, Backpacking, Camping, & Travel

Having a small, lightweight, powerful flashlight is crucial when you’re backpacking.

It comes in handy all the time, whether you’re camping, hiking (after sundown), exploring somewhere in the darkness, trying to find something in your tent at night, and so on.

Unfortunately, not all travel torches and backpacking flashlights are made equal.

That’s why I put this post together- to find and review the best available options and help anybody out there find the best flashlight for hiking, backpacking, camping, & travel possible.

I hope it’s come in handy! Keep it in mind and you should, I hope, be able to pick the best backpacking flashlight for your needs.


1 thought on “Top 10 | Best Hiking Flashlight [2021 Backpacking Flashlight Reviews]”

  1. the best flashlights can be bought from the Fenix store. They have high-quality flashlights and great products that are made to last longer.

Comments are closed.

Flipboard