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Parent and child with a lantern beside a lit tent at night

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Camp lighting and power

Light and power keep camp safe and comfortable after dark. Pick lanterns and headlamps first. Add a power station or a generator only if you need to run a fan, a fridge or an air conditioner.

Lantern and a mug on a wooden table by a lake at dusk START WITH THIS Best camping lantern

Light

Rechargeable lantern hanging inside a tent Rechargeable lanterns Camper wearing a headlamp while pitching a tent at night Headlamps String lights over a campsite at dusk String lights

Power

Power station beside a tent Power stations

Frequently asked questions

What kind of lantern is best for a tent?

A rechargeable LED lantern. It has no flame and no fumes, so it is the safe choice inside a tent. Bring one for the tent and one for the table, plus a headlamp for each person.

How big a power station do I need?

Add up what you plan to run. Phones and lights need very little, so about 300 watt-hours covers a weekend. A fan or a small fridge needs more, around 500 to 1,000. A tent air conditioner needs far more, so check its wattage before you buy.

Can I run a generator at a campsite?

Often yes, but check first: many campgrounds set quiet hours or limit generators to certain areas. Always run it outdoors and far from tents, because its exhaust contains carbon monoxide.

More topics

Portable air conditioner connected to a tent Heat & Cool Family campsite with a canopy, chairs and a tent Furniture

Free camping checklist

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