Best Hiking Flashlight – Top 25 Picks and Reviews

Are you looking for the best hiking flashlight? Do you love exploring the great outdoors? Whether it’s a dawn or dusk exploration, having a reliable light source is essential.

A good flashlight provides safety and security while navigating difficult terrain. Plus, modern LED flashlights offer more features than ever before, so choosing the right one can be overwhelming.

When selecting a hiking flashlight, it’s important to take into account factors like brightness modes and light intensity, power source, water resistance capability as well as durability and size. This article will look at the factors to take into account when purchasing flashlights for hiking. Here we compile a list of 25 of the top hiking flashlights available on the market today.

25 Best Flashlights for Hiking

1. Streamlight High Lumen Tactical Light

Streamlight High Lumen Tactical Light is the ideal flashlight for hiking. It has a bright, quick focused beam distance that can be useful in emergencies when one doesn’t want to rely on an oil lamp.

Additionally, Streamlight manufactures flashlights and weapon lights developed for military, law enforcement, and general uses that are tough enough to last for a long time.

This light has the added benefit of a dual purpose remote pressure switch, allowing you to use it with or without mounting on your weapon mount (Glock, rifle or shotgun).

The accompanying remote pressure switch allows you to adjust between the flashlight’s three modes-high, low, and strobe. By rotating the power ring around it, you can shift from high to low output.

With its impressive run time of 30 minutes when at 50% power and 17 hours when at 25%, the green laser can be seen from up to 250 yards away.

Moreover, it comes with batteries included so that you can start using it right away.

2. SHUAN Five-Color Keychain Mini Flashlight

SHUAN Five-Color Keychain light is another best hiking flashlights for hikers who want a lite and portable piece of equipment that can easily fit into their pocket clip.

With a maximum beam distance up to 85 meters, it is also great flashlight for camping, tracking game at night or finding your way in the dark. It comes with five light mode, white, red light, green, blue and UV.

The red light mode allows you to see even better at night. Everyone likes to have a red light mode when they hike at night.

However, don’t expect the UV light to reveal anything but it’s fun to use anyway. This also works great for keychain light or lanyards using the paracord holes.

The SHUAN Five-Color Keychain light utilizes one AA rechargeable battery type and has a 6 inch USB charger with a USB C port.

It also comes with an extra lanyard that can be used to twist the light off. About 1 hour of continuous use will give you about 2 hours of long battery life from the SHUAN Five-Color Keychain Mini Flashlight.

3. Fenix Super Bright Rechargeable Flashlight

Fenix Super Bright Rechargeable light is one of the best flashlights for hiking. It is powerful rechargeable camping flashlight. Great for outdoor adventures like hunting, caving, exploration, this light throws an intense beam distance over 546 yards (450 m) and will light the way when trees and other obstacles are in your path.

Plus it’s extremely lightweight, weighing less than 6 ounces (170 g), so you’ll barely notice it’s there until you need it.

The Fenix Super Bright has a 3500 mAh rechargeable battery type and comes with a USB c cable for easy charging.

It takes about 4.5 hours for a full charge when connected to a computer’s USB c port or an AC home outlet. And there’s more, this is made from durable aluminum body and is tested water resistance to IP68 standards, surviving 30 minutes submerged in light rain.

The Fenix Super Bright is also compatible with solar power source, meaning this can also be used in countries where electricity is scarce. There are also multiple brightness levels and SOS flashing modes.

All in all, the Fenix extremely Bright makes a fantastic camping light that has everything you could ever want and more. You can charge it easily with a battery pack or even via a solar panel.

4. Streamlight Strion LED Professional Flashlight

Streamlight Strion LED Professional light is the perfect choice for hikers and campers looking for a reliable, powerful flashlight.

This light features a rechargeable lithium ion battery type that can be recharged up to 1000 times, and it has three light output modes and strobe.

The high mode provides 615 lumens of light, while the medium and low modes provide 320 and 160 lumens respectively.

This Strion LED Professional Flash light is made from durable anodized aluminum and has a knurled body for a sure grip.

It also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so you can be sure that your flash light will last for years to come.

5. NEBO Davinci USB Rechargeable Batteries Lumen Flashlight

NEBO Davinci rechargeable flashlight has an impressive maximum output of 12,000 lumens in Turbo and Strobe mode, 7,000 lumens in High mode, 3,000 lumens in Medium mode, and 500 lumens in Low mode.

It can be recharged via a USB C cable when the batteries are depleted. The NEBO Davinci is built from anodized aircraft-grade aluminum and comes with a lifetime warranty.

The light can hold up to two different beam patterns. The NEBO Davinci rechargeable light has an innovative Magnetic Mode Select Dial that allows you to select the mode you want when the flashlight is charging or not.

You can use it as a lantern, and it even comes with an LED work to measure light output function. The only disadvantage of this product is that the batteries come in pairs, so you need to buy two replacement batteries.

6. Streamlight Stinger DS LED Flashlight

Streamlight Stinger DS LED Flashlight is a powerful flashlight that you might consider for hiking. It’s small and lightweight, and has a high-powered beam that shines and lumen output up to 600 lumens of light.

The second independent tail cap switch is easy to locate, so you don’t have to adjust the light’s beam distance while your hands are busy holding other things. Since it’s waterproof, you can use it in all kinds of weather without worry. It looks great, too.

This Stinger operates with C4 LED technology to generate the brightest setting and strongest beam available. Rated IPX4 waterproof, you can rely on it to stay safe in wet conditions. It comes with a low battery reminder that warns you when your light is in low charge.

Its aircraft aluminum casing also safeguards it against water damage. As long as you maintain the tape sealed around its case, dirt will kept at bay.

7. SureFire G2X Maxvision LED Flashlight

SureFire G2X is a compact and lightweight flashlight. The LED made by Cree, and has a high capacity of regulated power to run time at lumen output up to 800 lumens. It features a Polycarbonate window that is impact resistant and easy to clean.

The G2X is slightly larger than some other flashlights in this review, but it still fits quite comfortably in your hand like handheld flashlights. It runs on two CR123A lithium batteries, which included in the package.

You can set the light to strobe or SOS mode, which is useful in emergencies. It comes with a limited lifetime guarantee.

8. Rayovac Tactical Flashlight

Rayovac Tactical Flashlight is a powerful and reliable flashlight that offers lumen output up to 2,000 lumens of light. It has quad chip technology that provides a bright beam that can travel up to a quarter mile.

The weight-balanced housing outfitted with a non-slip rubber grip for comfort. You can choose between high and energy saving modes to fit the task at hand, and get up to 10 hours of performance on energy saver mode all in terms of light output.

The aircraft-grade aluminum housing is IPX4 water resistant and 3-foot drop tested, and your purchase protected by the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty.

9. Coast Lumen Dual Power LED Flashlight

Coast Lumen Dual Power Flashlight is one of the perfect LED flashlights for hiking. Who are looking for a powerful, reliable and versatile flashlight. This is the best flashlight for shorter hikes, setting up a basecamp or camping with a group.

With its dual power system, you can switch between rechargeable and alkaline batteries to suit your needs.

These backpacking flashlights are also features slide focused light output system that allows you to seamlessly transition between spot and flood beam with the push or pull of your finger.

The XP lights not only feature standard light modes but also COAST’s signature Turbo Mode for overpowered red light in critical situations.

With lumen output 3650 Lumen Max Light Output, 330 Meter (1083 ft) Max Beam Distance, and 58.5 Hour Max Runtime, the Coast Lumen is an ideal choice for hikers looking for a reliable and powerful flashlights for hiking.

10. ThruNite Ultra Bright Flashlight

ThruNite Ultra Bright High Lumen Flashlight is the perfect choice for any outdoor adventures looking for a reliable and powerful flashlights for hiking.

With its CREE XHP 35.2 LED, it produces lumen output up to 2403 lumens with a beam distance of 731 ft / 223 m, making it ideal for hiking and camping trip.

It also features Built-In USB type C charging port and a battery level indicator, so you can know when it’s time to top up.

The Type-C charging port makes recharging the lamp effortless, while the power display keeps you informed of how much battery life is left.

It has five light output modes – Firefly/ Low / Medium/ High / Turbo /Strobe light – and quick access Turbo from any mode with a double-click, keeping you safe when in a dangerous situation.

The light is also compact and lightweight at 4 oz / 113 grams and 4.8 inch / 12 .19 cm long, making it easy to carry on your hikes.

11. Streamlight Tactical Flashlight

Streamlight Lithium ION Battery and Holster Tactical Flashlight is the perfect choice for any hiker looking for a reliable, powerful light source.

This light features an impressive 1000 lumens of maximum brightness settings, making it ideal for illuminating trails in low-light conditions.

Plus, it’s lightweight and extremely durable with an abrasion-resistant aluminum housing and IP68 rating.  Enjoy longer battery life and the convenience of recharging with brighter flashlight.

12. DEWALT MAX LED Work Light

Dewalt work light is a perfect portable hiking companion. Because it uses LED technology, it produces excellent light output, with low heat output.

The light is bright enough for any job around the campsite or in your tent at night, but won’t drain your batteries too fast, as LED lights are much more efficient than incandescent ones.

The light head rotates 120 degrees so you can shine the light for maximum distance by pointing it straight ahead or down and away from you to illuminate what’s at your feet.

This light has an efficient LED bulb that means you can expect to get a steady 20-30 hours on a set of rechargeable batteries.

The light includes adjustable height and angle of the light and it can also be used as a hands-free lamp, so you don’t have to hold it in your hand.

13. STANLEY Rechargeable LED Spotlight

STANLEY Rechargeable LED Spotlight is the perfect choice for hikers who need a reliable and powerful flashlight.

This spotlight delivers up to 2,200 lumens of light with its 10W ultrabright LED, making it ideal for illuminating your path in dark or low-light conditions.

The collapsible pivoting stand and convenient trigger lock provide hands-free operation, while the AC and DC charging adaptors allow you to recharge the spotlight at home or inside a vehicle.

This is ideal for emergencies, power outages, outdoor activities, and long camping trip.

14. Mag-Lite Heavy-Duty Flashlight

MagLite Heavy-Duty light is the perfect choice for any hiker looking for a reliable and durable flashlight.

This sturdy flashlight is precision machined from high-strength aluminum alloy, making it incredibly strong and resistant to wear and tear.

The beam of light can be adjusted from spot to flood with a simple twist of the wrist, allowing you to adjust the light intensity and focus as needed.

Plus, a spare lamp is safely secured inside the tail cap for added convenience.

15. IMALENT Led USB Rechargeable Flashlight for Hiking

IMALENT Led Rechargeable Flashlights are the perfect usb rechargeable flashlights choice for hikers looking for a reliable and powerful flashlight.

With an output of 4000 lumens, it provides plenty of light to illuminate your path in the dark.

The pocket-friendly compact chassis with an anti-slip finish ensures that it stays firmly in your hand or stands on-end as an emergency lamp.

Plus, the magnetic USB charging makes it an ideal choice for your daily life, outdoor activities, personal collection and limited gifting.

16. ThruNite Magnetic Tailcap Flashlights

ThruNite T1 Magnetic Tailcap light is a great choice for hikers who want a reliable and versatile light source.

This light features an ultra-bright CREE XHP50 LED bulb that produces up to 1500 lumens of light, making it perfect for navigating dark trails.

It also has a magnetic tailcap that allows you to attach the light to any metal surface, freeing your hands for other tasks.

Additionally, it has several versatile modes including Firefly, Turbo, Strobe and stepless dimming. It has one of the brightest light output system including night light mode.

Plus, it’s powered by a rechargeable battery and has a built-in USB charging port and cable, so you don’t have to worry about buying new batteries.

17. Nitecore TUP Keychain Flashlights

Nitecore TUP Lumen Keychain Flashlight is the perfect companion for any hiker looking for a reliable and powerful light source.

With its 1000 lumen max moonlight mode output, it can easily illuminate your path in the darkest of nights.

Plus, the rechargeable built-in battery can run time up to 70 hours and is charged using the built-in micro-USB charging port.

The LED display shows real-time information on maximum brightness setting, lumens, battery voltage, runtime, and more. It has three brightness levels, though it doesn’t have a strobe or red light mode.

And with two lockout modes to prevent accidental activation in your pocket or bag, this is ideal for travel. These are another best flashlights.

18. Energizer LED Rechargeable Flashlight

Energizer LED Rechargeable Plug-in light is ideal for hikers who need a reliable light source. Its bright LED light beam can easily illuminate the path ahead, and its impact resistance makes it perfect for outdoor activities.

The retractable prongs make it easy to plug into any wall outlet, so you can always be sure your light is ready when you need it.

Plus, the rechargeable battery means you don’t have to worry about replacing batteries. The run time of this light is about 5 hours.

19. LRI Proton Backpacking Flashlights

LRI Proton Pro LED Flashlight is the perfect companion for any hiker looking for a reliable and powerful flashlight.

This light offers 1000+ candle power output of bright white light, making it ideal for illuminating dark trails or campsites. Its runtime on Turbo mode is almost 2.5 hours and the runtime is 120 hours of Low Mode.

The single-button operation makes it easy to use, while the full-range adjustable brightness allows you to customize your lighting needs.

Additionally, the five safety modes, including S.O.S., make it a great choice for emergency situations.

The waterproof design ensures that your light will stay dry in wet conditions. These are the best flashlights for night hiking.

20. Dorcy Aluminum Backpacking Flashlights

Dorcy Aluminum LED Flashlight is the perfect choice for any hiker looking for a reliable and powerful flashlight. This flashlight is simple to operate. Just turn it on and cycle through settings using the power button.

It features an intense 800 lumens of light through its bright LED bulb, making it ideal for illuminating dark trails and campsites. Its run time on turbo mode is almost 2.5 hours and has a duration of 240 hours on low mode.

The aircraft grade anodized aluminum construction ensures that this is built to last, even in the most rugged conditions.

Plus, the Dorcy flashlight is rechargeable via AC, USB, or car charger and comes complete with a USB cable and 12v USB car charger.

21. NEBO Aluminum Flashlight

NEBO USB Wireless Aluminum Flashlight is a great choice for hikers who need a reliable and powerful light source. It offers five different light modes, including a high-powered 1000 lumen Turbo Mode, and is constructed from rugged aircraft-grade aluminum to withstand the toughest of conditions.

Plus, it features a rotating 90 degree swivel head and magnetic base for hands-free lighting. The recharge able battery and MagDock wireless USB charging cable are included, making this a great choice for hikers who need a reliable and powerful light source.

Its run time is almost 2.5 hours on Turbo Mode and 240 hours on low mode. The way you use it also impacts the battery life.

What can you do to extend the life of the lights? Lower the flashlight’s intensity – Using a higher level of brightness drains the batteries quickly.

You can increase your battery life by using dimmer brightness settings, since multiple levels are available. These are the best flashlight for backpacking trips including night hiking.

22. Pelican Emergency Flashlight

Pelican Emergency LED Flashlight is the perfect choice for hikers looking for a reliable and powerful flashlight.

This light is designed to be lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry on hikes without taking up too much space in your bag.

It features three different modes: high, low, and flashing, allowing you to adjust the brightness depending on your needs. The PX8 water-resistant body ensures that the flashlight will stay safe and dry in wet conditions.

The Pelican 3310PL also has a long run time of 8 hours on high mode and 202 hours on low mode, making it perfect for extended hikes.

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.

Plus, it comes with three AAA batteries included so you don’t have to worry about buying them separately. These are the best flashlights for outdoor adventures, including hiking and camping trip.

23. PORTER CABLE LED Work Light

PORTER CABLE LED Work Light is the perfect flashlight for any backpacker looking to explore the great outdoors.

This rechargeable work light out has four LED bulbs that deliver 120 Lumens of bright light, so you can easily see your way in even the darkest conditions.

The pivoting head of the work light allows you to adjust the light focused beam throw towards your working area, making it easy to focus on the task at hand.

This is super-simple to operate. Turn it on by pressing the power button and cycle through settings by pressing the mode button.

Filtering between 4 brightness levels and strobing a light, this light is easily used one handed, which is a plus in an emergency situation.

The Moonlight mode is a valuable feature of this model. It comes with low budget option at affordable price.

24. ThruNite CREE LED Headlamp Flashlights for Hiking

ThruNite Lumen CREE LED Headlamp Flashlight is the perfect choice for hikers looking for a reliable and powerful light source.

With its max output of 520 lumens, it can provide ample illumination for any situation.

The logarithmic scale brightness levels adjustment light output system allows you to adjust the brightness levels from 1.6 lumens to 250 lumens, giving you the flexibility to choose the right amount of light for your needs.

The aircraft grade aluminum construction ensures durability and excellent heat dissipation, while the lightweight design makes it easy to carry.

Plus, it can also use an AAA battery which makes it a great choice for daily reading, camping and a tool light when you want your hands free.

These are also best flashlights for outdoor adventures, including hiking and camping trips.

25. Nitecore Ultra Lightweight AA Headlamp

Nitecore HA23 Ultra Lightweight AA Headlamp is a great choice for hikers who need a reliable and lightweight light source.

This headlamp offers 250 lumens of brightness, a 150-degree wide light beam that reaches up to 56 meters, and one-handed operation with the simple side switch.

It’s also made from rugged polycarbonate material that has superb impact resistance and holds two AA batteries securely.

So, if you’re looking for the reliable and lightweight headlamp, the Nitecore HA23 is an excellent choice. These are the best flashlights for any outdoor adventures, such as hiking and camping trip.

Frequently Answering Questions

What is the best flashlight hiking?

The best flashlight hiking depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight light source, the Nitecore HA23 Ultra Lightweight AA Headlamp is an excellent choice. It offers 250 lumens of multiple brightness settings, a 150-degree wide beam throw that reaches up to 56 meters, and one-handed operation with the simple side switch. It’ s also made from rugged polycarbonate material that has superb impact resistance and holds two AAA batteries securely. These are available on amazon.

How many lumens do you need for a hiking flashlight?

The amount of lumens you need for a hiking flashlight depends on the type of terrain and environment you’ll be exploring. Generally, flashlights with 250-500 lumens are suitable for most hiking conditions. However, if you’re exploring in extreme conditions or at night, it’s best to opt for a flashlight with 1000+ lumens.

What flashlights do Navy Seals use?

Navy Seals use a variety of hiking flashlights depending on the mission. For general operations, they typically use tactical flashlights with 1000+ lumens and a waterproof rating of IPX8 or higher. They also prefer hiking flashlight that are lightweight and durable, such as the Nitecore HA23 Ultra Lightweight AA Headlamp. This headlamp offers 250 lumens of brightness levels, a 150-degree wide beam that reaches up to 56 meters, and one-handed operation with the simple side switch.

How many lumens should a good backpacking flashlight have?

A good backpacking flashlight should have at least 250 lumens of brightness, with 1000+ lumens being ideal for extreme conditions or night time exploration. The Nitecore HA23 Ultra Lightweight AA Headlamp is a great choice as it offers 250 lumens of brightness, a 150-degree wide beam that reaches up to 56 meters, and one-handed operation with the simple side switch. For hiking, you’ll want a flashlight that produces enough light without being too heavy or large. The hiking flashlight should strike this balance.

What type of battery does the Nitecore Headlamp use?

The Nitecore HA23 Ultra Lightweight AA Headlamp uses two AA batteries. It is designed with a secure battery compartment that holds the batteries securely in place, ensuring reliable performance and long-lasting illumination. Utilizing these factors, you can select the best backpacking flashlight for your requirements. When camping, you can charge the camping lantern using either a solar panel or USB port.

Final thoughts

When it comes to finding the best flashlight hiking, there are many options available. You have to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Hope you find your perfect backpacking flashlight from our top 25 hiking and backpacking flashlights. All of these flashlights are made from rugged materials and have a waterproof rating of IPX8 or higher, so you can be sure that they will last for many years to come. All the models are available on amazon.

No matter what type of terrain or environment you’ll be exploring, there is a backpacking flashlight that will meet your needs. Keeping these criteria in mind will help you select the hiking flashlight for your needs, guaranteeing optimal performance when out on the trails. If you have any opinion, please leave a comment with your email address. Happy hiking!