A reliable light source is essential for camping, hiking, and all nighttime activities. Headlamps are preferred because they keep your hands free while lighting your path. This guide will help scouts choose the right headlamp for campouts and adventures.
Why Headlamps?
- Hands-free lighting for cooking, setting up tents, or night hikes
- Lightweight and easy to wear
- Many have multiple brightness settings and red light mode to preserve night vision
Considerations
Brightness (Lumens)
- Measured in lumens, brightness ranges from about 50 to 300+
- For most scout activities, 100–200 lumens is plenty
- Higher lumens are useful for fast hiking or technical trails at night
Battery Type
- AA or AAA batteries are most common and easy to replace
- Rechargeable batteries or USB rechargeable headlamps are eco-friendly and convenient
- Always carry extra batteries or a backup light
Beam Distance & Modes
- Look for adjustable beam focus or flood vs. spot settings
- Red light mode helps preserve night vision and avoids disturbing others
- Some models include SOS or strobe functions for emergencies
Comfort & Fit
- Adjustable straps ensure a secure, comfortable fit on your head or over a hat
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue on longer trips
Water Resistance
- A waterproof or water-resistant rating helps the headlamp work in rain or wet conditions
Recommended Headlamps for Scouts
- Petzl Tikkina – Simple, reliable, good brightness for general use
- Black Diamond Spot 350 – Bright, durable, multiple modes including red light
- Petzl Actik Core – Rechargeable, versatile, good for longer trips
- Coast FL75 – Adjustable beam and comfortable strap
- Energizer LED Headlamp – Affordable and effective for beginners
Tips for Scouts
- Always test your headlamp before the trip and bring spare batteries
- Use red light mode when reading maps or in camp to preserve night vision
- Keep your headlamp in an easy-to-reach place in your pack or on your head for quick use
Where to Buy – Local
REI – www.rei.com
Eastern Mountain Sports – www.ems.com
LL Bean – www.llbean.com
Sporting goods stores and Walmart
Where to Buy – Online
Amazon – www.amazon.com
Backcountry – www.backcountry.com
Sierra Trading Post – www.sierra.com
Campmor – www.campmor.com