How to Choose the Right Camping Lighting & Power
Published 2026-07-30 · Updated 2026-07-30
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-07-30.
Our pick: the Blukar Head Torch Rechargeable, 2 Pack 2000L Super Bright Headlamp-8 Modes | Spotlight Floodlight Combination, Sensor Control& Red Lights, Waterproof, Long Battery Life Headlight for Running,Camping — the best Camping Lighting & Power we tested, from £13.97.
Planning a camping trip requires more than just a tent – reliable lighting and power are essential for comfort and safety under the stars. Before you invest in any portable light source, consider your needs: how much ambient light do you require, what’s the likely duration of your trips, and what other electrical devices will you want to charge? Options range from compact head torches like the Blukar Head Torch Rechargeable to larger lanterns offering integrated power banks such as the HARPER LIVING Rechargeable Camping Light, or even substantial portable power stations like the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2.
See the full range in Camping Lighting & Power.
#1 Pick
Blukar Head Torch Rechargeable, 2 Pack 2000L Super Bright Headlamp-8 Modes | Spotlight Floodlight Combination, Sensor Control& Red Lights, Waterproof, Long Battery Life Headlight for Running,Camping- 1200mAh
£13.97
Pros
- Two torches in the pack means both hands stay free for the whole tent
- Motion sensor mode lets you switch on/off with a simple hand wave
- IPX5 waterproof rating copes with damp UK campsite mornings
Cons
- Full recharge of the 1200mAh battery takes a few hours by USB-C
#2 Pick
HARPER LIVING Rechargeable Camping Light, LED Retro Water Resistant Lantern, 5000mAh Power Bank, Dimmable Tent Light- 5000mAh
£29.99
Pros
- Built-in 5000mAh power bank charges a phone in an emergency
- Dimmable brightness suits both cooking and reading light
- Retro design looks smart hung inside the tent or on a table
Cons
- Full recharge takes several hours via the included cable
#3 Pick
Jackery Explorer 1000 v2, 1500W 1070Wh LiFePO4 Portable Power Station, Lightweight 1kWh Power Station with Smart App Control, 100W USB-C Output, 1 Hr Fast Charge for Outdoor Camping, Home Backup- 1070Wh
£429.00
Pros
- 1070Wh LiFePO4 battery runs fridges, lights and devices for days off-grid
- 100W USB-C output charges laptops and power banks quickly
- Full recharge from mains in about 1 hour
Cons
- Significantly pricier than simple power banks or lantern combos