When you go camping most of us use a camping lantern at night to light the area away from the campfire. We usually place one on the picnic table to light the area where we’re playing games or have snacking food or s’more ingredients laid out. The lantern’s light allows for community activity. Just think how your activities would change if you had to rely exclusively on flashlights. Camping lanterns definitely serve a purpose and solar lanterns have some distinct advantages over propane and battery operated lanterns.
Most of us are aware of solar powered devices like hand held calculators and yard lights. This source of power has been around awhile, but products like solar camping lanterns have really improved over the years. Solar lanterns are commonly used as the primary source of light in isolated areas where there is a lack of conventional electricity. Any type of camping from RV to tent camping requires some sort of light source. It may as well be a solar lantern than being dependent on batteries and electricity. These solar powered lights do require a light source or electrical outlet to charge them. You can use either the sun or manmade light to do this. The only batteries that are required are for the solar light and these last a very long time. Standard bulbs are replaced with LEDs (Light emitting Diodes) that give off a bright light and last for years. They are also weather resistant, making them usable in inclement weather. A 2-6 hours charge in the sun will provide up to 15-20 hours of light. Most of the solar camping lanterns on the market today have a lifespan of approximately ten years. Think of the money you’ll be saving on batteries and bulbs.
Safety is a key attribute to look for when you’re selecting the right solar camping lantern. Make sure they’re CE certified, corrosion resistant, and water resistant or waterproof. You want them to be able to hold up in the type of weather you’re camping. They are also safe for the environment, since they do not emit any emissions. They are safe for children to use, since there is no electrical shock to worry about and the lights are cool to the touch.
Some solar camping lanterns come with a removable solar panel that you can charge with a car charger or electrical outlet. There are many brands and different sizes and shapes of solar camping lanterns. Some of the solar lanterns available have an automatic feature that has them turn on when it gets dark or you can use the manual on off switch. There are even solar reading lights that you can clip to a book. Think of the convenience of being able to read at night when you’re camping without having to worry about batteries. You just need to remember to charge it in the sun when it starts to run down.
Once you try a solar powered camping lantern, you’ll be hooked. There’s a good chance your old camping lantern that is fueled by propane will be a thing of the past.
About the Author
I’ve been tent camping for over 30 years and as a retired Airborne Ranger, have experience in wilderness survival. For more information on camping tents and camping hiking gear, please visit us at http://mycampingtentsandmore.com. We carry a nice selection of camping gear from tents to flashlights at reasonable prices. Check us out
