Best Flashlight for Camping, Hiking & Backpacking

If you are going hiking, even just a day hike, there is always the chance you will need a flashlight.

Luckily the huge improvements in LEDs and batteries now mean that you can get an unbelievably powerful flashlight in a very small package, making it a no-brainer to take one along, even if you are only planning a day hike.

Below is a selection of the best ones we have come across

Best Hiking Flashlights

• Fenix PD35 V2.0 Flashlight

  1000 lumens, good rechargeable battery life and lightweight

  Our Overall Winner

• Goal Zero Torch 250 Flashlight

  Only 250 lumens, but integrated solar panel makes up for this

  Best Solar Rechargeable Flashlight

• Olight S1R II Flashlight

  Small, powerful, waterproof and very keenly priced

  Best Value Flashlight

• Klarus G35 XHP35 Flashlight

  Clever extended range optics give this a 1000m range

  Longest Range Flashlight

• Klarus G35 XHP35 Flashlight

  You probably don’t need more than this 4000 lumen flashlight

  Best Super Bright Flashlight

• Klarus XT11S Tactical Flashlight

  Powerful and light, but fiddly interface

  Highly Recommended

• Ledlenser MT14 Flashlight

  1000 lumens and quick recharge time

  Highly Recommended

Above are our picks, if you want to find out more about any of the specific models, the full reviews are below…

In between Headlamp and flashlight for hiking, you may need a flashlight under countless circumstances during your trip, even if you hike during daylight.

Hiking flashlights possess a lot of brightness settings which makes them well-fitted for multiple purposes. Only flashlights working on rechargeable lithium batteries have the ability to generate a large amount of illumination, which can effectively highlight the objects or humans or prey over 200 feet.

More than 90 percent of hiking flashlights are equipped with lithium batteries and are have lumens over 1000, that’s why good hiking flashlights eject effective brightness and run for a long time.

In this article, we’ve explored and reviewed what the best hiking flashlight might be for your further adventure. For this, our team has researched more than 20 models and eventually selected the best 10 hiking flashlight out of the 20.

Fenix PD35 V2.0 Flashlight – Best Overall Hiking Flashlight

The Fenix PD35 flashlight comes with a modernized version with extra features, greater throws, and an adequate run times.

When compared to the earlier version, this handheld hiking flashlight has sophisticated technology to satisfy all the hikers.

Like most of the upgraded models, this lightweight hiking flashlight grants a Turbo output and beam throw to improve performance from 960 to 1000 lumens and afford up to 209 to 250 meters of illumination range.

It has a special aspect of possessing a digitally regulated output that maintains constant level brightness. And the entire light has premium type HAIII hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish.

It also has a nice power management system that decreases the amount of brightness in increments as the battery begins to drain to maximize the batteries life.

The Fenix PD35 can get a little warm while you’re using it for a long time. And this flashlight is high-intensity lighting equipment being able to cause eye damage to the user or others. Avoid shining the flashlight directly into the eyes.

Specifications

LED: CREE XP-L HI V3
Lifespan: 50,000 hours
Run Time: 2.5 hours
Beam Distance: Turbo – 250 meters
Beam Intensity: Turbo – 15600 cd
Brightness Output: Turbo – 1000 lumens
Power Source: 1 x 18650 OR 2 x CR123

Construction

The Fenix PD35 hiking flashlight is made out of high-strength, oxidation-resistant, military-grade aluminum so it is very rugged and durable. It is equipped with rechargeable 18650 lithium batteries or it can accept two CR123A batteries, so if you are in an emergency situation you can use ordinary batteries at a push.

Features

• Built with Cree XP-L HI V3 LED with 50,000 hours of lifespans.
• The construction of Fenix PD35 is designed with an anti-roll and anti-slip body.
• This ultralight hiking flashlight has an ultra-clear glass lens that comes with an anti-reflective coating.
• It features a boot-up battery level indicator and a low-voltage indicator.
• The metal side switch permits users to effortlessly cycle through various outputs.
• It comes with a reverse polarity protection feature that shields your flashlight from unwanted battery insertion.
• The Fenix PD35 V2 EDC flashlight features a dual switch configuration for simple setup which is momentary-on output and constant-on output.

Ledlenser – MT14 Rechargeable Handheld Flashlight

There is no doubt that all outdoorsmen and women have this new MT14 to keep them very safe. The Ledlenser MT14 is the latest development of the hiking flashlight and appears with some great battery technology.

Its battery serves mainly for hiking. This flashlight lightens every edge of the dark forest. The Lenser MT14 flashlight is convenient for handy and the front switch leaves simple use of one hand.

And it comes with much more splendid features especially its quick charging feature gives you a lot of time.

MT14 has a Patented Advanced Focus System that provides appropriate light transportation for a more accurate view of objects at a distance and the proximity.

The metal clip is disproportion to the flashlight, occasionally it’s difficult to get from the pocket into the clip. It gets quite hot after a while when utilized in full power mode.

Specifications

LED: 1x Xtreme White LED
Lifespan: 50,000 hours
Run Time: 9 hours
Beam Distance: Turbo – 320 meters
Brightness Output: Turbo – 1000 lumens
Power Source: 1 x 26650 lithium-ion battery

Construction

This night hiking flashlight is constructed using high-grade aircraft aluminum. This anodized aluminum body makes this building more rugged and long-lasting. It comes with an Advanced Focus System with a consistent turn to the long-distance focused beam. This brightest hiking flashlight made with Smart Light Technology which provides 4 various light operations and added 2 energy modes. By this, you can personalize the light to suit your preferences. This handheld rechargeable flashlight built with one 26650 lithium-ion battery.

Features

• Switching between modes is easy and is done by pressing down a button while the flashlight is off.
• This rechargeable battery can be charged up to 100% in 8 hours, giving you of up to 3.2 hours of runtime.
• It comes with another important and innovative feature, a quick charge feature which is done by charging it via USB 3.0 and it is easy and effortless.
• Ledlenser high lumens flashlight has a lockout feature that protects your light from being switched on automatically.
• A combined power indicator in the switch of the light shows the residual battery power by revealing a yellow, green or red light.
• The MT14 grants 3 brightness settings and strobe, which are accessible in 3 pre-set selectable styles.
• The exceptional focus system permits you to sharpen the light from spot to flood by tilting the head part of the light forward and backward.

Klarus XT11S CREE XP-L HI V3 LED Tactical Flashlight

The XT11S is an enhanced variant of the initial Klarus XT11. This trendy Klarus XT11S blends the greatest characteristics of the former model to build a cutting edge tactical illumination device.

It works with a variety of features to help the user feel safe. The XT series’ famous double switch interface offers a return and retains this easy to utilize even in the dark.

It works with a variety of features to help the user feel safe. The XT series’ famous double switch interface offers a return and retains this easy to utilize even in the dark.

You need to have a micro USB charge cord to use this flashlight directly into a USB wall adapter, USB car adapter, or any regular USB port to charge it, which is greatly handy.

The major drawback revealed by the customer in this flashlight is that it doesn’t come with a lockout system and moonlight mode. And its UI is a bit complicated to set up and use.

Specifications

LED: Cree XP-L HI V3 LED
Lifespan: 50,000 hours
Run Time: 4.3 hours
Beam Distance: Turbo – 300 meters
Beam Intensity: 27225 cd
Brightness Output: Turbo – 1100 lumens
Power Source: 1x 18650 battery or 2 x CR123A batteries

Construction

Klarus XT11S is manufactured using military-grade aircraft aluminum with a Type III anodization. The tactical light equipped with 18650 lithium-ion rechargeable battery. Besides, it possesses reinforced SOS and Strobe mode for self-preservation purposes. The XT11S also has 3 different user settings that are; Classic Tactical, Outdoor, & Tactical Assault. The hard type III anodized body highlights an anticline grip and roll repellent tactical ring.

Features

• Klarus XT11S is going to see progress in all kinds of conditions, and the XT11S is made for anything with its uncommon 3 performance mode system.
• Reverse battery type protection inhibits damage to both battery and flashlight.
• It has an exciting feature of owning 4 different illumination modes which are Turbo, Hight, Medium, and Low.
• The light is shorter than you require for an 1100 lumen light source with a 330-meter beam throw.
• The XT11S utilizes a CREE XP-L Hi V3 LED (US-based technology) determined to serves for over 50,000 hours. And it is estimated at 1100 ANSI lumens.
• Due to the having polarity protection design, you can’t interpolate the batteries the opposite way so you don’t have to worried about your batteries protection.

Goal Zero Torch 250 Flashlight

The Goal Zero Torch 250 is one of the best products from Goal Zero’s expanded range of rechargeable and solar-powered electronic gadgets intended to people involved in hiking and camping. This is a multi-function light that merits a spot in hiking.

The front-facing spot point of this flashlight has a red light mode, but the authentic advantage is that you can place them to flash made to warn others of an emergency.

Charging by solar panel can take a while, but this is a limit of modern technology and its USB gates have no dirt covers. These both are the prime drawbacks of this night hiking flashlight.

Specifications

LED: XP-E2 LED
Run Time: 7 hours
Beam Distance: Turbo – 300 meters
Brightness Output: Turbo – 250 lumens
Power Source: Li-ion NMC 18650

Construction

This hiking led flashlight is manufactured with durable and long-lasting nylon material. The entire body has a bit of a rubberized layer that makes it feel much protected in your hand. It additionally has an angled pattern to leave the solar panel to be directed at a 45-degree angle for supremacy charging and a 2-bit latch design to permits the complete flashlight to hang anything. The Goal claims a dominant 18650 lithium battery which provides 250 total lumens output.

Features

• The Goal Zero Torch 250 has an in-built 4400mAh battery that can be charged with the combined solar panel, hand crank, or USB cable.
• It comes with a USB port that can be utilized to charge other electronic objects like mobile phones or tablets.
• You can utilize it as a flashlight, floodlight or red danger light. Besides, it has saved on power with bright and half-bright modes.
• Recharge it from the sun utilizing the solar panel positioned on the backside of this light or attach to the Nomad 7.
• The Goal Zero Torch250 comes with 2 lighting modes that are spot and flood. Both have a high and a low beam and they are extremely bright.
• There are 3 switches on the bottom of the light that work the lights which are; Flood, Spot, and Red. Each one holds twice for various modes.
• The blue LEDs at the downside of the flashlight near the power switch will warn you of the charging status. That means it works as an indicator of the charging level.

Olight S1R II High Performance Flashlight

The Olight S1R II is the advanced version of Olight’s greatest trading EDC night flashlight. The Olight S1R II is an all-rounder illuminating device that can withstand the hits and scrapes of extreme regular usage.

With an abundance of stability features, the S1R II has an all-innovative square textured milling on the entire construction that affords a solid grip.

Several of its characteristics are blended into the S1R II’s compressed structure, offering a perfect option for your every adventure.

The round-edged fascinating USB charger is compatible with all existing rechargeable flashlights and headlamps using this charging system.

The single switch has multiple functions to make it better, so its operation can be confusing at times. The flashlight gets too hot when continuously using 1000 lumen mode in about an hour.

Specifications

LED: Cree XM-L2 U4 CW LED
Run Time: 1.5 hours
Beam Distance: Turbo – 145 meters
Beam Intensity: Turbo – 5250 cd
Brightness Output: Turbo – 1000 lumens
Power Source: 1 x 550mAh IMR 16340

Construction

The S1R II Baton is the origin of Olight’s new production of IMR16340 powered rechargeable side-switch EDC lights. This modified edition has features a CREE XM-L2 U4 LED that delivers up to 1000 Lumens of effectual lighting. This small LED positioned below the switch reveals a color spectrum of yellow, green, and red that shows how full battery charge you have left. The absolutely stable hotspot for optimal brightness and a soft shift to keep a convenient sight while use.

Features

• A TIR optimized lens benefits soften and focus that excellent illumination into a focused beam that gives over 450 feet of beam throw.
• Its magnetic tail-cap technique leaves you for hands-free illumination. And its novel squared texture milling renders a wide and stable grip.
• This small hiking flashlight equipped with an electronic lockout feature that will be released while power cut and also it comes with moon-mode.
• The magnetic base of this high-grade flashlight permits light to be joined to some metal exteriors for hands-free illumination possibilities.
• Additionally, it has reverse polarity protection mode to protect your light from damages caused by poorly entered batteries.
• The S1R II Baton has the 3-color power indicator that will indicate you while the battery of your bright flashlight is operating low. By having this feature recharging could be easier.

Rofis R3 CREE XM-L2 LED Flashlight

ROFIS R3 is an R series flashlight, which is a famous rechargeable multi-operational hiking flashlight, featuring magnetic charging capacity and adaptable angle head.

This flashlight also acts as a classic headlamp, with a magnetic charging capacity, presenting it as an excellent and unique portable spotlight.

This flashlight also acts as a classic headlamp, with a magnetic charging capacity, presenting it as an excellent and unique portable spotlight.

The impressive feature of this lightweight hiking flashlight is that the head and body of this light can be adjusted from 0-90 degrees, which is very practical and convenient to access.

Since maximum lumen output is usually only available for 1-5 minutes, there is little doubt that it can provide maximum illumination for a very long time. Sometimes the neutral white 5000K works very yellow.

Specifications

LED: CREE XM-L2 U3 LED
Run Time: 5.5 hours
Beam Distance: Turbo – 194 meters
Beam Intensity: Turbo – 9410 cd
Brightness Output: Turbo – 1250 lumens
Power Source: 1×18650/2xCR123A/2xRCR123A

Construction

ROFIS R3 built with aero-grade aluminum alloy, premium type III hard-anodized material, which preserves this light from all sorts of damages due to it owns non-slip, and abrasion resistance, besides it created with waterproof elements. One can be used this waterproof hiking flashlight as a headlamp or usual handheld flashlight and so on. The optics of this light are defended behind a sleek stainless steel bezel.

Features

• R3 is an innovative magnetic LED light produces the maximum output of 1250 lumens while using 18650 lithium-ion battery.
• And its ergonomic rotation design makes it easy to handle within one-hand and the angled surface with a non-acute angle system can rotate it, very smooth.
• It comes with a CREE XM-L2 LED and mirror shining reverberator & AR-coated lens. This sort of LED emits a constant brightness for a long time, so you can carry this for your entire hiking.
• The powerful magnetic tail cap can be attached to the metal object, combining with head rotation, which enhances its usage scenarios.
• The powerful magnetic tail cap is attached to the metal object, which is combining with the entire head rotation section, which enriches its utility displays.
• It features the charging indicator which displays the level for charge and comes with a low battery reminder that warns you while your light is in low charge range.
• Then it built with an active temperature control circuit which prevents this flashlight from some technical issues.

Klarus XT11GT XHP35 HD E4 LED Flashlight

The Klarus XT11GT HD is an improved edition of popular XT11, as a dominant tactical flashlight with a well-built design.

Klarus XT11GT is the 4th generation of KLAUS flashlight family. This long-lasting hiking flashlight comes with compact design, effective functionality, and industry-leading patented features.

That’s why even in the midst of fierce competition, this flashlight still stands in its field and spreads its popularity. In overall, the Klarus xt11gt is a reliable flashlight with amazing features.

The light manufactured with the special feature of a dual tactical switch and a side switch. These make using this hiking flashlight to be easy and effortless. You can use both switches with your prefer.

Some of its features can be difficult to navigate because its operating mechanisms are difficult to understand. Its battery heats up when you continuously use it more than an hour.

Specifications

LED: CREE XHP-35 HD E4 LED
Run Time: 50 minutes
Beam Distance: Turbo – 316 meters
Beam Intensity: Turbo – 24964 cd
Brightness Output: Turbo – 2000 lumens
Power Source: 1 x 18650 or 2 x CR123As

Construction

The body of Klarus XT11GT is made out of aerospace aluminum alloy material, also it built with IPX-8 rated waterproof materials. And it included with 18650 lithium-ion battery along with Cree XHLP35 HD E4 LED technology. The 6 distinct operating modes grant the user with certain light choices. It is ultra-compact and uses an LED bulb. In addition, the Klarus XT11GT flashlight has a tactical tail switch and a side switch for comfortable use.

Features

• Totally it comes with three function settings which are tactical, outdoor, and advanced tactical. All three can be customized with respect to usage.
• It has a broader head than the tube, providing for almost X2 to X3 more peak beam intensity.
• The XT11GT has micro USB recharging, and this port is shielded by a rubber plug, which permits the light to keep its IPX8 waterproofing.
• The Klarus XT11GT has 6 separate light modes which are; low, medium, high, turbo, strobe, and SOS modes. All of these modes have their individual use and have different power range.
• THe XT11GT emits the highest illumination of 2000 lumens brightness inthe turbo level.
• You can monitor the internal temperature and can change the output of maximum brightness by its smart ITS temperature control system feature.
• The side switch of this flashlight included with a lock function aspect which can prevent accidental illumination.

Nitecore EA11 LED Flashlight

The EA11 LED Flashlight by Nitecore is the ideal fusion of strength and portability, remitting up to 900 Lumens of striking white light while averaging less than 4 inches in height.

Its output is extremely bright for such a spotlight that it’s not much larger than your thumb size. There’s no focus correction, it’s just a unique shape of the beam, but the beam is well-structured for all applications.

Apart from all the features, this EA11 hiking flashlight comes with a two-way removable stainless steel titanium-plated clip to producing extra functionalities.

The pocket clip has only odd changes that, while truly ensures the light to a pocket, make it difficult to attach to the aforementioned cap. As well as the side buttons could be stronger.

Specifications

LED: CREE XM-L2 (U2)
Run Time: 30 minutes
Beam Distance: Turbo – 190 meters
Beam Intensity: Turbo – 9000 cd
Brightness Output: Turbo – 900 lumens
Power Source: 1 x IMR 14500 or 1 x AA

Construction

Both its interior and exterior parts are made with hard-anodized aluminum alloy that is made to face the difficulties of continuous hiking. You never fret about the safety of its LED emitters, because it has scratch and impact-resistant tempered mineral glass along with the anti-reflective coating. Furthermore, it equipped with a 14500 battery, or you can use AA batteries. The red light feature of this flashlight is also very useful when snapping at night when you don’t need to reduce your night vision.

Features

• It comes with a dual-switch interface that helps you to easily use this flashlight. And the button is one of the too-small rubberized buttons on the side.
• This light includes the Nitecore N147 14500 Li-Ion Battery and the NitecoreIntellicharge i2 2-Channel smart charger.
• There are 5 brightness levels are available in this product which is a very efficient current control circuit for rendering a stable brightness at all battery levels.
• Strobe, SOS, and Location Beacon are the three hidden special modes for use in emergency situations.
• One can use its lockout mode when the EA11 is left unused and saved for a long time. Moreover, it comes with 2 lockout modes along with this product.
• Nitecore EA11 has a flat tail cap design for increased tail-stand capability and is built with an anti-rolling feature this prevents your light from move away from the place.

Klarus G35 CREE XHP35 HI D4 LED Flashlight

With its remarkable functionality and unique range, the Klarus G35 LED flashlight is an exceptional hiking gear for outside travelers.

Really, the G35 highlights both great illumination and condensed size. The design of the combined tube and battery section lets this light be managed much more comfortably.

Furthermore, the novel dual-switch provides added convenience in use, which performs it the best EDC companion.

It has a distinctive feature of lockout mode that serves to prevent accidental activation. And it has an Intelligent Temperature System Monitor that restricts your flashlight while it reaches overheating condition.

Its high lumens makes it easily heat up, so avoiding Turbo mode in most of the time is safer for both user and the flashlight. Anodizing on threads is badly done in this hiking flashlight.

Specifications

LED: Cree XHP-35 Hi D4
Run Time: 3 hours
Beam Distance: Turbo – 1000 meters
Beam Intensity: Turbo – 252506 cd
Brightness Output: Turbo – 2000 lumens
Power Source: 1 x 18650 or 2 x CR123A

Construction

It is built with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy and military-grade hard-anodized finish. As well as it is equipped with a strengthened ultra-clear tempered glass lens. And this G35 hiking flashlight included with single 18650 battery or dual CR123A emergency batteries. One of the most prominent features of this conventional flashlight is the beam distance and the Klarus G35 comes with a maximum beam distance of over 3200 feet.

Features

• This travel hiking flashlight is outfitted with advanced CREE XHP35 HI D4 LED technology that can produce 2000 lumens of clear white light.
• The light also features a couple of exclusive outputs, most suited to tactical action; An S.O.S. mode that can be utilized to signal aid and the Strobe mode for signal or distract a target.
• There is a side switch that acts as an LED power indicator while you press down doubles. And which indicates the residual charge level.
• It comes with reverse-polarity protection, which prevents your flashlight from some significant damages due to improper battery orientation.
• Its modernized reflector design is coated to render the exact beam space for exceptional distance light.

Nitecore TM16 XM-L2 Flashlight

The Nitecore TM16 little flashlight is an enhanced version of the TM15 and is an extremely powerful and high performing handheld hiking flashlight. It gives you ample illumination for your outdoor adventures and hiking trips. The Nitecore TM16 is an effective flashlight that proves that you can have a bright light in a small frame without losing the desire for self-defense.

The reflector design of the flashlight is similar to quad-ray technologies, with four LEDs working together with a shamrock-style reflector to throw out a massive amount of light.

This is more expensive than you might expect. Although it does not have any of technical problems, its cost makes irritates some of the hikers.

Specifications

LED: CREE XM-L2 U2 LED
Run Time: 45 minutes
Beam Distance: Turbo – 700 meters
Beam Intensity: Turbo – 122,500 cd
Brightness Output: Turbo – 4000 lumens
Power Source: 4 x 18650 (Li-ion batteries)

Construction

The Nitecore TM16 is well-built using aircraft-grade aluminum alloy and sturdy HA III military grade hard-anodized material. It is equipped with not only 1 but 4 x CREE XM-L2 LEDs and is capable of emitting amazing 4000 lumens.

Features

• It uses an advanced temperature-regulating technology that allows it to dynamically manipulate output operation according to its body temperature.
• The Nitecore TM16 requires 4-18650 batteries. Each battery arranged side by side in the inner structure of this flashlight.
• The TM16 contains a high-efficiency circuit board that provides max runtime of up to 520 hours. And it Advanced Temperature Regulation technology prevents this light damages.
• It comes equipped with XM-L2 LEDs from Cree so that you receive near 700 lumens of brightness. It also outfitted with 3 concealed modes; Strobe, SOS, Location Beacon.
• The rear thumb lock is attached to a tripod, and the TM16 turns into a camp light or camera light. It can be used for outdoor adventure, hiking, night photography and industrial activities.
• This flashlight has a power indicator function that accurately indicates the remaining battery power.

Final Words

Advancements in flashlight technology have made flashlights a valuable multi-purpose gear, which has numerous benefits, and advantages compared to outdated gears. Hiking flashlight should be your initial self-defense hardware used to ward off preys, or help locate a poor trail. Getting one would be the best decision that you could make when you’re an outdoor enthusiast.

To give you an opinion about the convenient flashlights you can notice, here we have posted some of the top-ranked and well-built flashlights that can be indispensable for hiking. We believe that our reviews and all the details about the best hiking flashlights in 2019 will help you in deciding what to get.

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU PURCHASE ANY PRODUCTS IN THIS POST, WE MAY RECEIVE A SMALL COMMISSION. WE PROMOTE ONLY THE PRODUCTS WHICH WE TEST AND RECOMMEND. READ OUR AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER HERE.