Camping Lighting & Power: Common Problems & How to Fix Them
Published 2026-08-01 · Updated 2026-08-01
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 2026-08-01.
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.
So you’ve invested in a rechargeable head torch, a camping lantern with battery backup, or perhaps a portable power station for your outdoor adventures? It’s fantastic to have reliable lighting and charging options when you’re away from the mains – but occasionally things don't go quite as planned. This guide focuses on diagnosing and addressing common issues you might encounter with products like the Blukar Head Torch, HARPER LIVING lanterns, or Jackery power stations, starting with simple checks that can often resolve problems without needing specialist assistance.
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