The 10 Best Emergency Lanterns

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This wiki has been updated 18 times since it was first published in July of 2018. No one likes to imagine that the worst will occur, but if a disaster should happen, it’s always better to already have the gear you need. Any of these emergency lanterns would make an excellent addition to your preparedness kit, whether you’re anticipating a hurricane, a tornado, or a zombie invasion. We've included models powered by the Sun, batteries, and even a good old fashioned flame. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. UST 30-Day Duro

2. The Siege by Streamlight

3. Black Diamond Moji

Editor's Notes

September 19, 2019:

Thanks to the combination of durability, water resistance, ample runtime, and lightweight construction, it remains tough to top the UST 30-Day Duro. It works equally well for frequent camping trips as it does for being stashed in the back of your closet, and considering the number of features, it’s not too expensive. The Siege by Streamlight still makes a strong choice for those who’d prefer an alternative to the UST model. It’s offered in a wider range of colors, but it does not have a glow in the dark housing option, as does the Duro. As for new options, we selected the Mpowerd Luci Original because we like its lightweight, portable design. It's a fully solar model, so you must have access to sunlight to charge it. We also added the UCO Anodized Original Candle Lantern Kit for those who prefer an option that bridges the gap between lantern and survival candle.

Finally, even though we are impressed by the design, we opted to remove the Goal Zero Lighthouse 400 over ongoing problems with defective units that will not turn off.

Special Honors

BioLite BaseLantern The BioLite BaseLantern costs more than some will want to spend on a piece of gear that only sees occasional emergency use. But, for those who want an option that’s just as good for camping and other activities, it may be the right choice. A Bluetooth-enabled model, it can be controlled from your smartphone so you don’t have to get up to turn it on and off. bioliteenergy.com

4. Tough Light LED

5. UCO Anodized Original Candle Lantern Kit

6. Rayovac Sportsman

7. Coleman Quad Pro

8. Core 500 Lumen

9. Etekcity 4 Pack

10. Mpowerd Luci Original


Melissa Harr
Last updated by Melissa Harr

Melissa Harr is a language-obsessed writer from Chicagoland who holds both a bachelor of arts and master of arts in English. Although she began as a TEFL teacher, earning several teaching certificates and working in both Russia and Vietnam, she moved into freelance writing to satisfy her passion for the written word. She has published full-length courses and books in the realm of arts & crafts and DIY; in fact, most of her non-working time is spent knitting, cleaning, or committing acts of home improvement. Along with an extensive knowledge of tools, home goods, and crafts and organizational supplies, she has ample experience (okay, an obsession) with travel gear, luggage, and the electronics that make modern life more convenient.


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