If you’ve read our beginner’s guide to backpacking the Grand Canyon, you may have noticed the extraordinary amount of gear, clothing, and other items that will be required to have a safe and enjoyable visit to one of the nation’s magnificent national parks. Granted, this was just about the Grand Canyon, but many of the same tips and advice still apply.

Option 1

If you are just going for a day visit, you will most likely pay a small fee to get into the national park. Just in case these parks don’t take credit/debit cards, be sure to carry cash.

Option 2

If you are doing a day hike, make sure to bring the appropriate clothing for cold, mild, and warm temperatures. None of the nation’s parks are exactly the same, so it is wise to carry a normal backpack with the basic necessities such as food, water, I.D., etc. A first aid kit or substitute will also come in handy should accidents or emergencies occur.

Option 3

If you are backpacking, the beginner’s guide to backpacking the Grand Canyon is a helpful resource for discovering many of the same items to bring on your trip. Many outdoor experts will agree that they bring the same amount of gear for a three-day backpacking trip as they would for a two week one. This is because you will likely use the same clothes multiple times. We guarantee there won’t be any laundromats down in the parks, so you’ll have to embrace your wild side head on, and that’s what makes your trip the most fun.

Pre-Check

Study! Research! Ask!

So you’ve finally confirmed to yourself or your family that you’re going to take a couple days out of your week to visit one of the nation’s national parks. This is an extraordinary achievement because America’s national parks are world-renowned for their diversity and beauty.

Let’s assume you want to at least camp, backpack, or stay in a national park lodge. The first step you should complete is proper and thorough research of the park and its variety of trails.

Let’s take the Grand Canyon for example. If you’re looking at a terrain map of the canyon, you can clearly see the National Park Service’s facilities settled on the south rim. You then have a canyon, which is bisected by the Colorado River. Across the Colorado is the northern half of the canyon.

• Study the trails well and mark important camp sites or natural markers. Furthermore, always carry maps!

Permits are usually required by the National Park Service to stay at the various camp sites at the parks. The National Park Service website provides you with all the necessary information to obtain your permit. You don’t want to be going down to a park only to be told you can’t stay because you don’t have your permit!

• Follow your particular park’s social media channels (if they have them) to stay updated on the latest weather and announcements.

Getting there

Adequate transportation will be needed to get to the park in the first place. If you’re traveling a long distance, ensure your car is up to the challenge and can withstand an onslaught of the elements. Some of these parks are not easy to get to and require crossing deserts and mountains to get to.

• If you are staying overnight far away from your vehicle, empty it of valuables and electronics.

Some of the larger parks, like the Grand Canyon, have buses to transport hikers from trailheads to the primary facilities. Make good use of them! You don’t want to expend a large portion of your energy just walking from your car all the way to the trailhead.

Gear

If you’ve checked out the beginner’s guide to the Grand Canyon, you’ll see a lot of winter specific gear and items listed. This is because the Arizona desert can at times become too dangerous in the summer to hike even with water. That doesn’t mean that it will be like that all the time, but constant weather checks in the days before you embark on your trip are necessary.

The gear you are going to carry is going to depend on the park, weather, and how long your trip will last. Day visits and hikes will generally involve a lot less gear than long distance camping and hiking. Is a general reminder, you’ll have to do careful planning ahead of time to decide what you’re going to take.

No one piece of gear is more important than the other. But if we had to rank one item above all else, it would be the right pair of hiking boots or hiking shoes. For longer distances, boots and shoes are more equipped to deal with the changes in terrain and elevation than regular athletic shoes. These boots and shoes can also mean the difference in whether your feet are soaked after stepping into deeper than normal water. Water-proof, not water-resistant, is the difference maker.

• If you’re planning on hiking a national park with rapid and steep elevation changes, the friction generated by your feet against your socks and shoes can and will blister your feet! Your boots should fit snug and comfortable.

Arrival

What’s there to do?

No national park is the same, but perhaps that’s the beauty in each of them. Some parks may be so small, they only have a few rangers and facilities dedicated to them. Others, such as Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Zion, and many others, are massive. A multitude of rangers and park staff are there to assist you with each and every question you might have.

While hikes are usually the most popular activity to engage in, don’t pass up the assortment of other things to do and visit while you’re at a particular park.

• Geology, wildlife, and history museums
• Nearby towns and cities
• Tours and park ranger talks
• Gift shops

Capture the moments

We want to assure you that the national parks aren’t going anywhere fast, but just in case, you should carry a quality camera to take the best possible pictures of nature’s masterpieces. Check out our reviews and guides to the wide arrangement of digital cameras on the market.

It can be a little intimidating at first, but you shouldn’t have to spend more than a couple hundred dollars on a quality camera that will last you a long time and still get the best snapshots.

Save the date!

National Park Week covers the weekends of April 15th and 22nd each year. This means that entrance fees to every national park in the country are…*drum roll*…free! That’s right, if you’re planning to take a day to visit a park, set aside these weekends in particular to save some money!

There are other days and weekend around the year that national parks offer free admittance:

• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Presidents’ Day
• National Park Service Birthday (Aug. 25th)
• National Public Lands Day (Sept. 30th)
• Veteran’s Day Weekend

Overall

The goal is to have fun while experiencing the otherworldly beauty of nature. Try not to overextend yourself on a single day, because there’s always tomorrow or the next day.

So you want to take a trip…

Congratulations! You’ve read up on our Grand Canyon must-do’s and decided to make the great leap into the outdoors by tackling a rigorous national park: the Grand Canyon. The canyon is no easy task. However, for my very first venture into to backpacking (let alone camping), I would say I was well prepared in every respect. Having excellent and knowledgeable guides is a necessity because once you’re in, you’re basically cut off from the world above. Here are the skills we know most first-time campers should know about.

The Grand Canyon is one of nature’s marvels and mysteries. Spanning north of the state of Arizona, its massive length and unique structure are what clearly separate it from any other U.S. national park. People from all over the world book trips years in advance to be able to hike the trails and peer down into the vast canyon.

Since its designation as a national park, the national park service has worked tirelessly to improve the visitor experience at the canyon. They have erected trails, museums, camping areas, lodges, shops, and even a train station along the southern rim.

Let’s go camping!

Have I mentioned you can backpack it?

Backpacking, if you’re not familiar with the term, is the act of taking an extended camping trip for more than one day, usually setting up tents at the end of the day before eventually moving on.

If you’re like me, a complete newbie to the great outdoors, there are some things you should think about at least four or five months before the start of your trip. In addition, the situation depends on the type of group you’re going with. As a beginner, under no circumstances should you be hiking alone. 

Once you start your journey, you can expect that sometimes things won’t go according to plan. Here’s what to expect from the wild world of nature and camping in the thick of it.

Pre-Check

Health

You don’t have to be a bodybuilder or heavyweight to hike these trails, but you should be aware of your limits far in advance of your trip. A physical at the doctor’s office and a health check up might be in order (my trip leaders required this). This will make sure you don’t have any lingering issues by the time the trip rolls around.

Check the weather

The Arizona weather is extremely unpredictable. It can be absolutely scorching or freezing depending on the time of year. However, with careful planning, you can take your trip before or far after the heavy snowfall hits. For the purposes of this guide, we will assume that you are taking your trip anytime between November-January.

The reason I say this is that I had a friend go on the same trip a year before me in January, and her group encountered torrential snow. The only snow that my group encountered (in mid-December) the next year was near or at the rim, while the depths of the canyon remained perfectly dry.

Exercises

Depending on the length of your trip and who you travel with, chances are you’ll be carrying your fair share of gear, not to mention food, water, and mobile shelter (tents). All in all my backpack topped out at about 45lbs, with a majority of the weight being my gear for a good five days in the canyon. It was nothing I couldn’t handle but I was nonetheless more than prepared for.

Your lower body, back, neck, and shoulders are going to be taking the brunt of the weight during this trip. The hike down into the depths of the canyon is strenuous on the knees and ankles. The hike out puts more stress on calves and quadriceps (and is likely the most difficult journey).

In order to prepare yourself at the most basic level for this trip-here are some exercises that suited me well:

1. Weighted, walking lunges
2. Weighted squats
3. One legged squats
4. Weighted shoulder shrugs
5. Leg press/curl
6. Calf raises
7. Intensive cardio

Stretching

I also mentioned the neck area. For me, my neck was something that I wished I focused on more because I have bad posture overall and that caused enormous tension build up with all the weight on my back. Here are some good stretches that will loosen many areas that might become tight.

1. Swing your head from side to side sharply so as to feel a pull on both sides of your neck
2. The “Good Morning” Stretch: try to touch your toes (while taking quick breaths to extend lengths). Then reach for the sky and try to touch the ceiling.
3. Neck rolling

Conducting these exercises and stretches constantly at least four or five months before your trip should keep you pain and stress-free, but again, it all depends on what you decide to carry in your backpack and if you’re traveling with a group.

(Including Icy Hot or a similar tension relief ointment to your gear will greatly benefit you should tension flare up.)

Gear

This is the fun part, the part where you get to see if all the money you spent is going to withstand the full-on assault by mother nature. For my trip, my guides recommended that I search at local or 3rd party stores before going to high-quality stores such as REI, Patagonia, Mountain Hardware, etc.

We’ll start with the essential gear before we move onto clothing, cooking utensils, and other miscellaneous items.

• Tents-Make sure these have a rain covering in addition to the actual tent. When folded, they should fit into the side pockets of your backpack. Some tents are designed to sleep only a certain amount of people, but we’ve reviewed some of the best out there.
• Backpack w/attached brain: The backpack I was provided with had multiple pockets and straps to fit the maximum amount of gear possible. You don’t want to be carrying anything in your hands except your hiking poles. Most large backpacks have a large “brain” at the top near your head for easy access to valuables and smaller items.
• Zero-degree sleeping bag: A normal sleeping bag simply won’t cut it-you’ll lose too much body heat at night, and the canyon’s temperatures can and will drop below freezing at night. These specially designed sleeping bags look like cocoons and if zipped properly, only leave your face exposed to the elements (preferably beneath a tent). Here are our reviews for the top sleeping bags, but remember, you are looking for the zero-degree bags.
• Interior Liner: The liner, a small bag like structure of varying materials goes inside your sleeping bag and extends to about your upper thighs. This provides added warmth for your lower body.
• Heat absorbent pad: This pad is designed to absorb body heat at night and reflect it back to your sleeping back. You can usually identify them by their differentiating colors. A dark color (mine was forest green) was on the outside, and the silvery reflective side was the one I lay on. This pad rolls up and is usually strapped to the bottom of the backpack or the very back of it. Check out our reviews of the best sleeping pads of 2018.
• Headlamp: The sun does not last long in the skies above the canyon, and is quickly obscured by the towering canyon walls. It is absolutely imperative that you find a good headlamp and bring spare batteries (4) to better aid in the darkness. If this option is too pricey, a good flashlight will do. Check out our reviews top headlamps and flashlights of 2018.
• Hiking Boots/Shoes: Boots or shoes will be okay for this trip. You want your boots to be waterproof. Whether you get caught in a downpour or a puddle or stream proves to be deeper than you thought, you want to know your shoe is going to keep your feet dry. There is a wide variety of footwear to shop from, and everybody’s feet differentiate on comfort levels. Men and women will obviously have different tastes from each other as well. Head over to our reviews of the top outdoor shoes and boots of 2018.
• Ice Chains: These chains look similar to the ones that cover tires of a car. However, these ones go on the bottom of your boots or shoes and help with traction on slippery or icy surfaces. I recommend that you try to see chains in person, usually with your boots in hand so as to gain a better perspective of what you are purchasing.
• Running Shoes: Chances are, once you make camp, your hiking boots/shoes are going to feel a little bothersome on your feet after hiking a number of miles. If you just want to walk around camp or walk a short distance. Some running or athletic shoes will come in handy. Any other sneaker or fashion shoe will not support your feet well here. I carried Reeboks.
• Gloves-I took two pairs of gloves, one was a lightweight-woven pair and the other was a mitten-hybrid that fit over those. However, it was sort of tedious to get them on and off again, so a single pair that is insulated (but not ski/snowboard gloves), will do just fine.
• Mobile Stove: These stoves should be foldable and small enough to carry in your backpacks. Here are our tips for finding the most affordable and accessible camping stove.
• Foil Walls: The foil acts as a barrier to trap heat near and in the stove when it’s heating water or food.
• Gas Canisters: Supplies the gas necessary to light the stove.
• Water Bags: Depending on how big your party is, the water stored in these bags can be used to heat up and make coffee, hot chocolate, and warm up food. Check out our tips for keeping your water bacteria free during your trip. Always, always fill up your water bottles and bags to the brim whenever possible.
• Freeze Dry Food: Ready and easy to make meals are going to be a priority down in the canyon. Whether it’s freeze dry or other foods that don’t require much labor, you’re not going to be feasting down in the canyon. The foods you bring should be small but contain a big enough protein and carbs supply to give you lots of energy for each day. Check out our recommendations for the best on the go meals. If you’re looking for a little added sugar, sift through our dessert list.

Clothing/Shoes/Hats

As I mentioned before, I’ll bet you can find a good 75% of what you need at stores that sell items at a fraction of the price that most high-end retailers do. That’s nothing against high-end retailers, but if you’re looking to save money, always do your research (preferably in person) beforehand.

Clothing necessities will differ for men and women, but the key is to preserve as much body heat as possible while maintaining comfort. There’s no washer or dryer down there and barely any dedicated electricity, so you’ll be wearing pairs of clothes over again repeatedly.

Here’s a tip: As you’re settling down for the night, put the clothes that you will be wearing tomorrow at the deep end of your sleeping bag, towards your feet. When your bag is all sealed up, your clothes for tomorrow will accumulate the heat that you generate while you’re sleeping. You won’t have to worry about putting on cold clothes the next morning.

Underwear

• Mid-length underwear: Being very active, I had a lot of spandex and sports underwear already. Brands such as Under Armour, Addidas, Nike, and Spyder are the ones I recommend. I carried 3 pairs during the five-day trip. Try and avoid dedicated sports underwear, as those usually have seams that are itchy and rub against your skin. 
• Long underwear (Tights): I wore these over my mid-length underwear, despite the tightness. At least for my trip, I could have done without the mid-length underwear because it wasn’t as consistently cold as the year before. However, long underwear is ultimately necessary if you’re not thinking about bringing mid-length underwear. I brought 2 pairs of Under Armour tights.

Shirts

• Dry Fit/Wicking Shirts: These shirts are the lightweight, loose kind that regulate sweat and water. They also dry easily. These are the type you’ll commonly see people working out it. I carried 3 of these with me on the trip.
• Normal long sleeve shirt (Cotton/Synthetic): Any long sleeve shirt will do with the appropriate materials. Remember, the key is to retain body heat. If you’ve already got your dry fit short sleeve shirts under this long sleeve one, then you’re keeping water off your skin (which causes blisters).

Lower Body

• Quick Dry Shorts: If the temperature and conditions are right, you’ll be able to wear quick dry shorts on top of your underwear. Wearing pants for too long will build up your body heat, and it’s never good to have too much of it. These shorts are similar to swim trunks but not exactly athletic shorts. There are many different types out there, but make sure yours can dry quickly as that is why you’re bringing them in the first place. I brought 2 pairs of a 3rd party brand.
• Quick Dry Pants: Many of those on my trip wore dedicated hiking pants which work well. However, I found a cheaper pair of pants (fleece) that looked a lot like sweats. These kept my legs very warm and also dried easily (not that I was swimming in the Colorado River with them or anything). Remember-body heat retention and comfort. You won’t be wading through rivers, but you may encounter streams and ponds that may be a little deep. I brought one pair of the RBX brand.
• Fleece/Synthetic/Down Jacket: For me, these were heavy sweatshirts that had good insulation. There are sweatshirts out there that are pretty thin, so make sure yours have good padding underneath and preferably a hood. I brought 2 pairs.
• Rain Jacket and Pants: When it rains down in the canyon, it rains hard. Your jacket needs to be waterproof, not water resistant, otherwise, you’ll have another clothing item getting soaked. A hood is a necessity on the jacket as well.
• Fleece Jacket: An extra coat or jacket over your main down sweat-shirt/jacket will probably be your outermost layer. I brought one.
• Liner Socks: These socks should be worn against your own skin, are very lightweight and protect against blisters. I carried 3 pairs.
• Hiking Socks: Worn on top of liner socks, they provide extra padding, warmth, and support. These should not be cotton, and so make sure you air yours out at the end of the day. I carried 3 pairs.

Hats and Face

• Warm Hat: These hats can be of the woven or wool type that go over your ears. Basically, they cover ears, which can get cold quick.
• Baseball Hat: For when it’s sunny but the temperature is too high for a warm hat.
• Bandana: For cleaning, sweat, grime, and snot.
• Face mask: My face mask was designed to cover up to my nose and the top of my head. It, along with my bandana, kept the majority of my face warm.
• Handkerchiefs/Kleenexes: If you’re like me have your nose runs due to exposure to allergies and the cold, then handkerchiefs or kleenexes will be a necessary investment.
• Sunglasses

Miscellaneous

If you need to bring prescriptions such as contacts, glasses, or medications—then by all means, do so. Some extra Ziplocs or plastic bags for extra storage might be in order but chances are you’ll probably use a majority of your food and limited supply items by the time your trip is over.

Here we will explore some miscellaneous items that might fit better in the brain of your backpack as opposed to the actual pack.

• Tupperware and cup with fork/knife/spoon: The Tupperware will help you heat larger meals without the need of a plate. You can simply rinse it off with the water from a water bag or use the water stations at some of the base camps. A cup will be useful for coffee, hot chocolate, or any other drink. A knife and spoon (or even sporks) will work great and it would be even better if they were linked so not misplace them.
• Water Bottles: I brought 3, one-liter bottles.
• Toiletries: There is almost no electricity down in the canyon, so everything needs to be done by hand. Shampoo and body wash are unnecessary.
• Moleskin: Your liner socks may not completely protect you from excess heat and moisture buildup on your feet. Moleskin looks like band-aids but is specifically designed to keep irritated areas of skin dry. If you feel any patch of skin become irritated and uncomfortable, stop immediately and apply moleskin to the affected area. Once it’s applied, slip your socks back over and you’ll be good to go.
• Lip Balm
• Sunscreen
  

Tips, Pointers, and Advice

No national park is the same, and while this guide was created solely out of what I experienced in the Grand Canyon, there’s no harm in assuming you can transfer much of the gear, clothing, etc. in this guide to another national park. It’s the things such as weather and environment (unpredictability) that you should be aware of when you begin to plan a backpacking trip.

• If you think you have enough space left over, carry a pillow in your backpack. I didn’t have one, as I used my rolled up sweatshirts as a headrest at night. However, it would have been more comfortable. Head over to our reviews of the best hiking pillows.
• It is better to be overpacked than under-packed, but make sure that you are comfortable and secure carrying what is in your backpack.
• Plan and book your trip far ahead of time. Chances are you’ll be competing with a lot of people to get camping spots at the two primary base camps-Phantom Ranch and Indian Garden. Like I said earlier, the weather is unpredictable and there’s no telling for certain what you might encounter.
• Speak with the Rangers or national park service who are down in the canyon if you have any questions or concerns. They are trained for the most extreme situations.
• Keep warm, but not too warm! Blisters can grow quickly even in the most extreme conditions and can become painful if they are not addressed immediately.
• Take a night hike and get a clear view of the night sky. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Most importantly, have fun! Try and use your time from sun up to sun down to explore everything within reach. Trips like these to the Grand Canyon or other parks can be pricey, and you should get as much out of each day as possible.

A flashlight is a practical device that can help you in a lot of situations. It can be used in the event that the electricity goes out in your home or it can be used along the side of the road if your car breaks down. It is also a good tool to have with you when you go camping, fishing or hiking before dawn or after dusk to help you light the path that you are walking on so that you do not trip and fall.

There are a number of flashlights that you can purchase and not all of them offer the same experience, which is why we have created this guide to help you find the best flashlight for your needs. Before we start with the reviews, let’s take a look at some of the features and functionality that you may want your flashlight to have.

Best Tactical Flashlight

Tactical flashlights are devices that are used by the “average Joe”, but they are also used by the police, firemen, and people who have military careers. These flashlights can be used to help you see in the dark, find items, and they can even be used for self-defense. If you are looking for one of the best tactical flashlights on the market, then the Streamlight 88040 ProTac Tactical Flashlight a great option for you.

First, it is a lightweight device that actually weights less than half of a pound, so you will never be over-encumbered when you carry it. The flashlight is slightly over five inches in length, so you can easily carry it in your bag or even your pocket without noticing it. The flashlight is only about one and a half inches in diameter, so it is also very easy to grasp, even if you have short fingers.

The tube of the unit is crafted from durable aluminum that is designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. It is also coated with an anti-corrosion coating to help prevent the device from rusting in inclement weather. In addition, the flashlight is designed to be water resistant so that rain water does not splash into it.

The lens is crafted to be durable as well; in fact, it is designed to maintain clear illumination in all weather, including rain and fog. In addition, the flashlight is designed with anti-roll features, so when you sit it on the table art your campsite for the night, you can be sure that it will be there in the morning. This protective feature helps to ensure that the flashlight does not take unnecessary fall damage, though it can fall from a distance of one meter without being damaged.

The ProTac is a flashlight that is designed with LED technology. It offers some of the brightest light that you can find on the market when it is set to the brightest mode. The device is rated at 600 lumens, but at the brightest setting, it can reach up to 750. This flashlight has three different modes, which are low, medium, and high. There is also a strobe feature that you can utilize as well. To switch between them, all you need to do press the button on the tail of the unit.

At high, the flashlight shines about 270 meters into the distance, but it will only maintain the light intensity for about 1.25 hours. At the low setting, which is only 35 lumens, it will beam 60 meters into the distance for 18 hours straight.

Pros

• Changing modes on this device is quick and easy to do.
• The LED beam that this flashlight provides is a wide beam that is able to penetrate through the darkness with ease.
• The small design of this flashlight makes it very ergonomic to hold for long periods of time.

Cons

• The Flashlight only operates with lithium-ion batteries, which can be a bit pricey.
• You have to pass the strobe feature to get to low, which can be annoying for some.
• If the flashlight is left on high for extended periods of time, it starts to get a little warm to the touch.

Best LED Flashlight

As you most likely know, LED flashlights are becoming more popular. They offer a brighter beam and the bulbs tend to last a lot longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. If you still have an older flashlight, and you are looking to purchase a new LED model, then the Maglite LED 3-Cell D Flashlight is a great option for you to invest in.

Let’s start out with the aesthetics of this flashlight. Typically, the design is not the most important thing to consider, but it’s something to consider with this flashlight, especially since you can choose from six stylish options. You can select from black, gray, silver, red, blue, and camo.

Now, let’s move on to the important features of the product. It has a durable build that is constructed with a high strength aluminum alloy that is virtually indestructible. It has been coated inside and out with a material that protects the device from water and fall damage. With all of this protection, the flashlight still manages to weight merely a pound, which makes it barely noticeable in your backpack. In addition, the flashlight is designed with a Diamond Knurl design that makes it easy to grip so that you do not accidentally drop it during your travels.

The LED beam that this flashlight provides is more than adequate for most indoor and outdoor needs. It offers a beam of 168 lumens at a distance of up to 412 meters, which shines brighter and longer than many of the flashlights on the market. This flashlight can provide a solid beam of light for a period of 80 hours without any issue. It is also designed to change from a spotlight to a floodlight with ease. If you need to switch the type of beam, then simply rotate the head of the device to adjust it to your needs.

Pros

• This flashlight gives you the option to focus the beam instead of only having the halo effect, which makes it a more versatile flashlight.
• It is a very durable design that will not break, even if the unit is mistreated.
• The flashlight is very bright; in fact, it is so bright that you will want to avoid shining it in someone’s face by mistake.

Cons

• The flashlight can easily roll off of a surface.
• The power switch is not quite as durable as the rest of the flashlight; in fact, during our tests, the switch became a bit harder to use after several uses.

Best Small Flashlight

Sometimes having a small flashlight is more convenient to keep in your car for emergencies or to simply have in your backpack for long hikes in the woods. If you are looking for a compact unit that is lightweight and easy to carry, then the UC30 Fenix Flashlight is perfect for you. It features a long narrow design that is less than six inches in length and merely one inch long. To top it off, the unit only weighs about 5.5 ounces, which means that it will not add much weight to your bag.

This flashlight is made from aircraft- grade aluminum that is designed to be durable and able to endure impact from the distance of one meter. The exterior is designed with an anti-roll design that makes sure that it does not roll unexpectedly. It also has a slip resistant design so that you do not easily lose your grip. It is also designed as a waterproof device that can be submerged in two meters of water.

The lens on this flashlight is protected with an anti-reflective coating so that the light can shine brightly through the glass, which is also designed to be ultra clear. The head of the flashlight also contains a USB charging system that is great for an on-the-go flashlight. All you need to charge the flashlight is a micro-USB cable that you can plug into, then simply press the button on the back end of the flashlight to activate the charger.

There is a switch on the side of the device that allows you to switch between modes. There are five different options that you can choose from when you use the flashlight. The lowest mode is called eco, and it puts out a semi-dim light that is only 14 lumens. At this setting, the flashlight will last for 150 hours of use. The next setting is low, which outputs 50 lumens for a period of 38 hours. Medium is slightly brighter at 180 lumens, and it can last for a little longer than nine hours of time.

The high setting ramps up the brightness to 480 lumens, but the run time also plummets to less than three hours of time. The brightest setting is turbo, which offers 960 lumens for about an hour and a half. All of the modes can illuminate up to a distance of 200 meters, there is also a strobe option that you can access by pressing the selector button and holding it down for a second.

Pros

• The flashlight comes with a wall and a car charger, so it is great as a travel flashlight.
• The mode select button is conveniently located on the side of the device for easy access.
• This flashlight offers a huge range of light options that makes it a versatile unit that is great for most situations.

Cons

• This flashlight tends to get very hot when the turbo mode is in use.
• The holster that comes with the flashlight is not as durable as it could be.

Brightest/Most Powerful Flashlight

If you are looking for a flashlight hat you can use in emergencies, then you want something that is bright. A powerful flashlight will be able to handle most of the lighting needs that you have, and the new Fenix TK35 Ultimate Edition is a flashlight that stands above the rest in this category. Because of the brightness that this device offers, it is great for casual walks in the woods, but it can also be a great tool for official emergency personnel to use as well.

We were surprised at the level of light output that this small, compact flashlight could put forth, but since you do not want blinding light all the time, there are several other modes that you can use. Eco mode is a low light option that only provides a 20 lumen light source. Low gives you 120 lumens, medium provides 380 lumens, and high is capable of 1,050 lumens.

If you are looking for the brightest light, check out the turbo setting because it provides almost double the amount of light that high provides. At 2,000 lumens, you will be able to see in the dark as though it were the day. There is also a strobe function and an SOS mode that you can make use of as well. Amazingly, the flashlight also can send the light a distance of 1,050 feet. The beam itself is a 75-degree wide angle beam, which means that it is great for covering your area and anything ahead of you, but it will not penetrate deep into the distance.

The aesthetic design of the unit is very pleasing to the eye. It is constructed from a very durable anodized aluminum that was coated with an anti-abrasive finish. The tail of the device has two switches that are used to turn the flashlight on and off easily with one hand. You can also switch between modes with ease using these switches. This flashlight comes with four rechargeable batteries that have been tested to be recharged over 1,000 times. This means that you can expect the flashlight to light your path for years to come.

Pros

• It features a compact design that is lightweight and easy to carry.
• It is designed as a waterproof device that is able to be submerged under two meters of water for a period of 30 minutes.
• The flashlight offers seven modes of brightness that make its performance one of the most powerful on the market.

Cons

• It can be difficult to remove the flashlight from the holster that comes in the packaging.
• The batteries can be a bit expensive, but they are rechargeable, so you will not need to purchase them often.
• The initial cost of the flashlight is a bit much, but it is a device that will last for a long time.

Best Rechargeable Flashlight

One of the aspects that make new flashlights more valuable than older variations is the fact that many of them are designed to use rechargeable batteries. If you are looking for a rechargeable flashlight, the Solaray Pro ZX-1 is a great option for you to consider. It is designed with a powerful strobe light that can help you in emergencies, and if you find yourself under attack, the unit is also designed with a striking bezel that you can use for self-defense.

The flashlight is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum that is durable enough to last for years of use. In fact, it is also designed to be shock resistant as well as water resistant, so that you can be sure that your flashlight will be safe from mishap. It is also a very lightweight flashlight that is actually only about one-third of a pound.

This flashlight also offers a good bit of illumination. It comes with a total of five different modes that you can select from. There is a low, medium, and high mode that gives you a brightness of up to 1,200 lumens. The bulb is LED, so it will offer even more brightness than traditional incandescent flashlights. It also has a strobe option and an SOS mode that can send out emergency signals. In addition, this beam of light can be adjusted to your needs, so whether you need a wide beam or one that can reach into the distance, because of the zoom lens on this unit, both options are available.

One of the features that make this flashlight one of the best on the market is that it features a two battery system that allows you to choose which option you prefer. You can either select a lithium ion battery or AAA batteries. The lithium ion batteries fit directly into the device, while the AAA batteries are designed to fit inside of a battery pack so that they can easily be recharged at the same time. Two lithium batteries are included with the purchase of this flashlight. The batteries can be recharged up to 500 times, which means that you will be using this flashlight for a long time.

Pros

• It has a very durable construction that can take a fall from a meter or so without taking damage.
• This flashlight is capable of flooding the area with light or penetrating into the darkness with ease, which makes it a versatile option to have.
• Since this is a compact flashlight, it comes with a wrist strap that makes it more convenient to carry.
• The flashlight does not lose its brightness as the battery dies.

Cons

• The zoom lens does not lock in place, so you may find it switching modes when you simply bump the flashlight.
• There is no easy way to recharge the batteries without removing them.

Best Pocket Flashlight

As we discussed earlier in this guide, having a small flashlight can be advantageous. If you like a compact design, nothing is more suitable to carry with you wherever you go than a pocket flashlight. Many of the flashlights that we have reviewed are small in size, but the other best pocket-sized option is the OxyLED MD50 Flashlight. It is only slightly over five inches in length, 1.5 inches in diameter, and it weighs just over six ounces.

Let’s start with the power of the light itself. Since this is a smaller model, we are not looking for the brightest flashlight available, but it does offer quite a bit of illumination. In fact, when the device is used on high, it produces a 500-lumen beam. There is also a low and medium setting that you can use when you do not need such a bright light source. This flashlight also has a strobe feature as well as an SOS alert that you can make use of when needed.

The flashlight is also fitted with a zoom enabled head, which means that the beam can be switched from a wide area to a narrower beam of light when needed. This flashlight was also designed with longevity in mind, so the LED lights are able to stay lit for a period of 50,000 continuous hours.

Insofar as durability, the flashlight is made of high-quality aluminum; in fact, it is aircraft grade like many of the models on our list. The device is also coated with a hard anodized coating that adds an extra layer of protection to the flashlight. The lens is also coated with an anti-reflective coating. The flashlight is waterproof, which means that the interior parts will never corrode. The device can be in heavy rain but it should not be outright submerged in a pool of water for any length of time.

As with our last review, this model also has a dual battery option that makes it more versatile for travel. It can use a lithium-ion battery, which is included in the packaging when you purchase this flashlight, or if you prefer, three AAA batteries can be used instead. These batteries can all be recharged in the included charger, so you will not have to worry about purchasing new batteries for a while.

Pros

• This flashlight can take falls from a carrying height like a pro.
• The tail switch makes it easy to turn on the flashlight or change modes on the go.
• The dual battery option means that you will always have a backup without needing to recharge the batteries.

Cons

• The focus pattern on this flashlight is not round like most flashlights; in fact, it is square, which can be off-putting to some.
• There is nothing on the flashlight to keep it from rolling when it is placed on a table top.
• The recharge time seems a bit slow.

Best Cheap Flashlight

Not everyone wants to spend a ton of money on a new high-end flashlight, so there are cheaper options on the market. Cheap does not always mean low quality, so we have selected a more budget-friendly option that has a lot of the stats that you want in a flashlight. If you are on a budget, the Dorcy 41-2510 is a great option for you to consider.

This flashlight is designed with LED technology that makes the bulb inside the device brighter and longer living. The face is actually designed with four LED bulbs so that you get a wider beam of light. There is only one setting, so it is not as versatile as some of the options on our list, but it does provide a light beam of 55 lumens at a distance of over 30 meters. In addition, this flashlight is designed to be waterproof, which is similar to many of the flashlights on this list but this device is different because it is also capable of floating. This feature makes it a great option for fishing, hiking, and camping, especially since you are likely to be outdoors after dusk.

It is also designed with durability in mind; the flashlight is constructed with a thick rubber lining on the exterior of the bezel that makes it shockproof and protects it from falls. The rubber around the body of the flashlight also makes it easy to hold and less likely to roll off of a flat surface. In addition, there is also a built-in carabineer clip that makes it more convenient to carry the flashlight, which is convenient since this is not the smallest option on the list.

This Dorcy flashlight is 6.5 inches long and it has a 2.5-inch diameter. It also only weighs about 0.28 pounds, so it will not be noticed in your pack. Insofar as batteries, this unit runs on three AA batteries, which means that their longevity is shorter, at nearly nine hours, but they are easy to carry and cheap to replace.

One of the features that makes this flashlight stand out is the array of color options that you can purchase. The rubber comes in blue, pink, purple, neon green, and yellow so you can choose one that fits your style for your next camping trip.

Pros

• The AA batteries that are required are easy to come by and easy to change.
• This flashlight floats on water, which means that it should be harder for it to take on water.
• The durability of this flashlight is amazing; in our tests, it was even dropped onto concrete without being damaged.

Cons

• If you are using it as a spotlight in your car, be aware that it may flicker when you drive over a bump in the road.
• The bulkiness of the flashlight makes it a bit difficult to handle, especially if you have smaller hands.

Best Flashlight for the Money

Sometimes when you are purchasing something new, you simply want a good value. The more features that you can get for your money, the more ideal the product seems to you. If you are looking for the best flashlight for your money, then the J5 Tactical V1 Pro Flashlight is a great option for you to consider. It is a durable flashlight that is impact resistant and waterproof, which gives it a longer lifespan.

This is a palm-sized flashlight that is designed to be easy to carry; in fact, it can easily fit into your pocket. It operates at 600 lumens on high at a distance of 600 feet, which is quite impressive considering the size of this device. If that brightness is too much, then there is also a lower setting that you can utilize as well as a strobe mode. There is also an adjustable focus that allows you to change the intensity of the beam of light being displayed. You can choose a wider beam or one that reaches far into the distance.

The flashlight is designed to run on a single AA battery, which means that you can easily purchase more when needed. The battery will last for a few weeks when you use it on a daily basis. The unit also comes with a clip on the flashlight for your convenience. In addition, it is available in a number of creative colors such as black, hunter orange, blue aqua, desert camo, and forest camo.

Pros

• It is a great every day carry flashlight that is perfect for most situations.
• It is made from a durable aluminum material that will stand up to daily wear and tear.
• This flashlight is very comfortable in your grip, making it easy to use as well.

Cons

• The clip on the flashlight is small and difficult to use.
• The battery does not last that long, and it is not designed to be rechargeable.

What to Look for in a Flashlight

Amount of Light Output

One of the most important considerations for purchasing a flashlight is the light output that it provides. If you purchase a flashlight with low lumens, then the light it produces will be less intense, making it harder to see in the dark. Light output for a flashlight can range from 20 lumens to 3,500, so when you make a selection, make sure that it has the brightness that you require.

For camping, a flashlight should range from 35 to 60 lumens, but for other uses, you may need more or less output. If you are looking for a multi-purpose flashlight, then look for one with around 100 lumens.

Type of Bulb

Most of the flashlights on the market today use LED light bulb technology. They offer a more energy efficient way of producing light that is brighter and lasts longer. There are still incandescent bulb options available, but they are becoming the less popular option.

Distance of the Beam of Light

The distance that you can see into the darkness is important as well. A flashlight is not useful for hiking in the dark woods when you can only see a few feet in front of you. The beam distance refers to the number of meters from the flashlight to the point where the light is equivalent to that of a full moon. The distance will vary based on the specific flashlight and the brightness mode that you have selected.

Type of Beam

When you are looking for a flashlight, the type of beam that it offers is of great importance as well. The type of beam that you are looking for will vary based on the reason that you are purchasing the flashlight. You can get a fixed beam that features a single width. This type typically offers a wider beam that is bright closer to you, but the beam does not extend far into the distance.

You can also purchase a more focused beam that offers a narrower beam that illuminates far into the distance. Some flashlights offer both beam types, which is the best option for someone who is looking for a multi-purpose flashlight.

Type of Battery and Run Time

The type of battery that a flashlight requires is going to play a part in whether you purchase it or not. No one wants to have a flashlight that requires expensive batteries, so you need to choose an option that works for you. Disposable batteries are a good option if you have a flashlight that requires AAA or AA batteries, but anything other than that can be annoying to carry.

Rechargeable batteries are a great option for a flashlight that you use frequently. It may have a larger initial investment, but no replacement cost makes up for it. Lithium ion batteries are not typically recommended unless the manufacturer specifically states to use this type of battery.

No matter which type of battery that you settle on, make sure that it provides sufficient run time for the flashlight. You should shoot for something that will remain at full illumination for one to two hours.

Modes and Controls

Some flashlights only have one light setting, while others offer low, medium, and high to give you more control over the light that the flashlight puts out. Honestly, it will be rare that you will use the additional settings, but having them can be nice. Some units also have additional modes that make them even more versatile, like an SOS mode or a strobe setting. The brighter the mode that you select to use, the quicker the life of the battery will go, so choose your modes wisely.

Not all flashlights turn on the same way. Some have push buttons, some have sliders, and some have twisting bezels. If you are using the flashlight for typical household or camping uses, the controls will not matter that much, but if you need light in a hurry, something that is simple to turn on will be preferred.

Durability and Resistances

Flashlights can be made out of plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel. Obviously, a metal option offers more durability, but if you are careful with a plastic design it will last just as long. Most of the flashlights that have stainless steel heads are impact resistant, so an accidental drop on the patio will not destroy the device. Some flashlights are also rated for water resistance so that when you are out in the wilderness, you can still use the flashlight in the rain. Check the IPX rating of the flashlight to see if it is just splash resistant or whether it can hold up to a few hours being submerged.

Size, Weight, and Shape

Flashlights come in different sizes and shapes, so make sure that you find a design that you can grip comfortably. There is not a specific design or size to aim for, you simply want to purchase something that is light enough for you to carry and easy to maneuver.

Final Thoughts

All of the flashlights in our review are top of the line options, but each one is designed for a different task. Why do you need your flashlight? Is it a backup for emergencies, a tactical accessory, or a tool that you keep in your camper? Hopefully one of the flashlights that we reviewed in this guide is the perfect fit for you, but if you are looking for something different, reconsider our pre-purchase considerations before making a purchase.