How To Choose A Headlamp

Lumens

Lumens are a measure of how bright a light shines. The lumens are a measure of how bright a light is. However, it is more energy-intensive to emit as many lumens as possible. Too bright a light can cause eye damage to your camp friends.

Headlamps typically start at 15 lumens and can go up to more than 1000 lumens. A good all-purpose headlamp is one that produces 100-200 lumens. If you are doing something that requires precision and light (e.g. climbing), then consider getting something between 300-500+ lumens.

Headlamps can be set to adjust the output lumens. This helps conserve battery power when you don’t require the maximum amount of light.

Beam Type/Distance

There are two types of beam available for headlamps. Flood is the first type. Flood headlamps produce a broad area of light that is not focused from the headlamp. Flood light headlamps are great for lighting up areas like an attic or campsite.

Spot beam is the second type. Spot beam headlamps can be used to see objects further away. The beam works like a flashlight and will illuminate any area you point it at. These lights are very useful because they only illuminate the area you are looking at and can travel far further.

Headlamps that are more expensive have the ability to adjust the beam from flood level to spot.

It is important to know the beam distance. The beam distance is usually stated on the website of most headlamp manufacturers. The beam distance tells you how far the headlamp can produce light Headlamp For Camping And Hiking.

Run Time

When choosing a headlamp, it is important to consider the run time. The run time of a headlamp will be stated by the manufacturer. This will give you an idea of how long the light will last.

Many headlamps have the option of rechargeable batteries (AA or AAA).

Weight

It is important to weigh the headlamp when backpacking. Headlamps come in a range of weights. They can weigh as little a few ounces as they do a pound. For backpacking, look for a headlamp that is light to long lasting and has a high weight.

It's a good idea to have a light headlamp, even if you are using it for day hikes.

Additional Features to Consider

Red Light Setting

A lot of headlamps have a red light setting that makes it easier to use your headlamp at night. The red light won't cause any damage to your eyes like white light, so you can see better at night. A few headlamps have a green light setting, which is similar to the red one.

Constant Output

Manufacturers don't always state whether the headlamp produces a constant output. However, if they do, it is a plus. Regular headlamps can only produce 50% brightness when the batteries are 50% charged. A constant output headlamp will produce the maximum amount of light until it runs out of batteries. Then it will turn off abruptly.

Weather sealing

A headlamp that can get wet is always a good thing. It's impossible to predict when a torrential rainstorm might hit and soak your gear. Some headlamps are more water-resistant than others. It's obvious that more waterproofing is not a bad thing.

Tilt

It's much more convenient than you might think to be able to tilt your headlamp. You will usually want to tilt your headlamp so it lights up the ground in front.

It is important to understand the purpose of the headlamp before you choose one. A backpacker who is a light traveler will require a different type of headlamp than someone who likes to work in an attic. Take into account your budget and your needs to find the right headlamp for you.