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A headlamp keeps both hands free for cooking, pitching a tent or scrambling back to camp after sunset. It is also one of the ten essentials, so it goes in the pack every time.
How we pick: this guide compares products using manufacturer specifications and published reviews. It is not based on our own hands-on testing. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before you buy.
Quick picks
| Headlamp | Brightness | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Black Diamond Spot 400 | 400 lumens | All-round camping and hiking |
| Petzl Actik Core | 600 lumens | Rechargeable, brighter trail use |
| Petzl Tikka | 300 lumens | Light, simple and reliable |
| BioLite HeadLamp 330 | 330 lumens | Comfortable, low-profile fit |
| Nitecore NU25 | Ultralight | Weight-conscious backpacking |
What to look for
Lumens. Lumens measure total light output. 200 to 400 is plenty for camp chores and most trails. Higher output drains batteries faster, and you rarely need it.
Beam pattern. A wide flood beam is easier on the eyes at camp. A focused spot beam helps you see further down the trail. Many lamps offer both.
Battery type. Rechargeable lamps save money over time, but you need a way to charge them. Lamps that take AAA batteries can be refuelled anywhere. Some models do both.
Red light mode. A red mode keeps your night vision and doesn’t dazzle people in the tent.
Water resistance. Check the IPX rating. IPX4 handles rain, and IPX7 or IPX8 handles submersion.
Lock mode. A lock stops the lamp switching on in your pack and flattening the battery.
Our picks
Black Diamond Spot 400
Best for: an all-round camping headlamp.
A well-known, straightforward lamp that offers white, red, green and blue light modes, dimming and a lock. It takes AAA batteries or a rechargeable pack.
- 400 lumens
- Waterproof
- Works with AAA batteries, so easy to refuel
Petzl Actik Core
Best for: brighter trails and night hiking.
At 600 lumens it is brighter than the Spot, with a rechargeable Core battery that also runs on AAAs if you pack them.
- 600 lumens
- Rechargeable, with AAA backup
- A little heavier
Petzl Tikka
Best for: light, simple use.
A compact lamp for camp tasks and short night walks. At 300 lumens it uses less power and weighs very little.
- Light and comfortable
- Good battery life at moderate output
- Not as bright as the Actik Core
BioLite HeadLamp 330
Best for: comfort.
A slim, flat design with the battery at the back, so it sits comfortably against your forehead and doesn’t bounce when you run or hike fast.
- 330 lumens
- Low-profile and soft
- Rechargeable only
Nitecore NU25
Best for: ultralight backpackers.
A very light rechargeable lamp that gives up some brightness and battery life to save weight.
- Very low weight
- USB rechargeable
- Smaller battery
Frequently asked questions
How many lumens do I need for hiking? 200 to 300 is enough for most trails. Night hiking at pace, or off-trail navigation, is easier with 400 or more.
Should I carry spare batteries? Yes, or a power bank for a rechargeable lamp. Check the lamp isn’t turning on in your pack.
