This list of 10 low-cost camping lanterns shows the amazing diversity available to campers. You’re no longer limited to flickering, smelly propane lanterns that easily tip over. Instead, you can choose rechargeable LED lanterns, lightweight butane-powered camping lanterns or modern propane options. If you go with the latter, you can find heavy glass or steel mesh enclosures, anti-spill bases and new technology that keeps your flames steady. We’ve even profiled a top-selling camping lantern for kids.
Coleman QuickPack Deluxe Propane Lantern
Coleman makes some of the best propane camping lanterns. Their QuickPack deluxe is packed full of features like EverBrite Power and a PerfectFlow fuel system so you get bright, consistent light. These low-cost camping lanterns can last for almost 8 hours on a single propane cylinder and come with a 5-year limited warranty.
Stansport Compact Single Mantle Propane Lantern
These outdoor-only propane lanterns are great disaster kit or camping supplies. Their sturdy base is designed to resist tipping over even on rough terrain, and the steel handle can easily hang from a branch or stand. The top is even flat enough to heat water or a small meal in a pot.
SolarEK Ultra Bright Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern W/ Hand Crank
These rechargeable camping lanterns don’t need propane to deliver a bright light. Instead, they can be powered by solar cells, a car battery or the included hand crank. They’re one of the top camping lanterns for backpackers who don’t want to the extra weight of propane cylinders. It also comes with a sturdy handle so you can hang it in your tent or off your backpack.
Coleman Northstar Propane Lantern with Case
Coleman’s best portable camping lanterns like this Northstar model come with a hard plastic carrying case. That makes it easy to store the lantern inside a backpack or closet when it’s not in use. Of course, you can also enjoy the normal array of features that Coleman includes in all of its affordable camping lanterns, including the InstaStart system that lets you start a flame without needing matches.
Century 7030I Portable Propane Single Mantle Mighty-Lite Lantern
It’s hard to find cheap propane camping lanterns designed for cold-weather environments. Century met that challenge with this basic model. With a simple chain for hanging and a basic knob for controlling the brightness level, it might not look like one of the best camping lanterns on the market. If you take it with you during a winter trip, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how well its glass bulb and low-tech design handle low temperatures.
Stansport Magnum 4 Mantle Propane Lantern with Mesh Globe, Black
This powerful lantern gives up to 1200 candle power with its dual design. It has a steel mesh globe rather than the normal glass material, making it the best portable camping lantern for rough terrain and sports enthusiasts. You also get a nylon transport back and a tip-resistant base with four feet for extra balance.
VAlinks BL300-F2 Ultralight Camping Gas Lantern
Non-glass lanterns are a great option for hikers, backpackers and RVers. These cheap portable camping lanterns weigh only 6.9 ounces including their case, so they’re easy to transport. They’re also compatible with all major propane and butane cylinders.
Primus Tor Sr. Propane Lantern with Piezo & Base Adaptor
This simple and affordable camping lantern delivers everything you need. It’s great for camping, hiking or mobile homes, and you can use most major propane cylinders with the easy-screw base.
Discovery Kids Starlight Lantern ~ 2-IN-1 4X LED ~ LED Light and Star Projector in One
If you’ve got a budding astronomer in your family, these kid-friendly lanterns are a great choice. They’re one of the best camping lanterns for kids because they’re easy to carry and powered by batteries rather than propane. They’re also a great addition to your regular RV supplies, especially if you’re having trouble getting the little ones to sleep on the road.
Deluxe Outdoor Camping Combo – LED Lantern and Fan 2-in-1
LED camping lanterns don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, as this affordable lantern shows. You get 18 LED bulbs, a detachable flashlight and a built-in fan. These battery-operated camping lanterns last up to 16 hours with the LEDs turned on or up to 50 hours with only the fan running. You’ll find that these low-cost camping lanterns have low operational costs because they don’t require expendable propane or butane fuel.
This concludes our list of the best camping lanterns. We think you might also like: Top 10 Best Portable Battery-powered Camping Lanterns
