Think head torches are just for late-night hikes? Think again. Once you’ve tried cooking, pitching a tent, or finding the loo in the dark with just your phone light, you’ll get it.
I learned the hard way. Cold, soaked in the Lake District, trying to unzip my tent with one hand and hold a flickering phone with the other. Not fun.
Whether you’re starting out or levelling up your gear, a proper head torch is a game-changer. I’ve rounded up the best head torches in this guide. Read on to find the one that’s right for you.
Why a Good Head Torch Matters Outdoors
Out in the wild, light isn’t just about convenience but about comfort, safety, and staying in control when everything else feels unpredictable. A proper head torch lets you keep both hands free, whether you’re cooking dinner, pitching a tent in the wind, or sorting your gear before bed.
You don’t realise how much you rely on light until you’re scrambling around in the dark with a half-dead phone torch and no idea where your pegs are.
And it’s not just about brightness. A good head torch gives you options – red light, flood, and spot beams. Some are even rechargeable, waterproof, or smart enough to adjust brightness automatically. It might seem like a small bit of kit, but it makes a massive difference when the sun drops and you’ve still got jobs to do.
Best Head Torch for Camping: A Quick Look
Petzl Swift RL
Max Brightness: 900 lumens
Weight: 99g
Battery Type: Rechargeable (USB)
Standout Features: Reactive lighting, mixed beam, single-button control
Black Diamond Icon 700
Max Brightness: 700 lumens
Weight: Bulky
Battery Type: Rechargeable
Standout Features: IP67 waterproof, RGB night vision, PowerTap brightness switch
Regatta 10 LED
Max Brightness: 28 lumens
Weight: ~100g
Battery Type: 3 x AAA batteries
Standout Features: Super cheap, adjustable fit, basic but reliable
Petzl Actik
Max Brightness: 350 lumens
Weight: 86g
Battery Type: 3 x AAA / CORE battery
Standout Features: Dual beam, red light, helmet/bike compatible
BioLite Headlamp 330
Max Brightness: 330 lumens
Weight: 69g
Battery Type: Rechargeable (USB)
Standout Features: Rear battery, moisture-wicking band, dimmable modes
LED Lenser MH10
Max Brightness: 600–700 lumens
Weight: Moderate
Battery Type: Rechargeable (USB)
Standout Features: Focusable beam, quick charge, red/green filters included
Top Head Torches for Camping in the UK – Detailed Review
1. Petzl Swift RL – Best Overall Head Torch
The Petzl Swift RL is a head torch that punches well above its weight – literally. At just 99 grams and packing a massive 900 lumens, it’s a compact powerhouse that easily covers everything from wild camping to night hikes and even nighttime bike rides.
One of its standout features is the ‘reactive’ lighting mode. This smart setting uses a built-in sensor to automatically adjust brightness depending on how dark it is around you. It’s a bit like having automatic headlights strapped to your forehead. It not only makes life easier but also helps preserve battery life when you don’t need full blast.
Speaking of battery, it’s USB-rechargeable, giving around 2.5 hours on full beam. On lower settings, you can easily stretch that to 10 hours. After about 90 minutes on high, some of the LEDs switch off to save power, which is clever. Just know that full power drains the battery fast, but when you need that full 900-lumen blast, it’s a lifesaver.
The beam adjustability is another highlight. You can switch between a wide flood pattern and a mixed beam for distance, making it suitable for everything from reading a map to spotting your route down a rocky trail. It also has one single button for all functions – easy to use, even with gloves on.
My only small gripe is that there’s no strap over the top of your head, so all the weight is at the front. It wasn’t an issue for most of my tests, but if you’re sprinting down a hillside, you might notice it bounce a little.
2. Black Diamond Icon – Best for Harsh Conditions
If you’re heading into the dark and wild with no plans of turning back early, the Black Diamond Icon 700 is the tank you’ll want on your head. It’s big, it’s tough, and it can light up a pitch-black forest like nobody’s business.
With up to 700 lumens of brightness, this torch is brilliant for night fishing, mountain adventures, or those long treks back to camp after sunset. It’s got a bunch of different light modes too – full beam, dimming, strobe, and a full set of RGB night vision options (red, green, blue), so you won’t blast your night vision when all you need is a soft glow.
The PowerTap tech is a clever addition – just tap the side to switch between full and dimmed light instantly. Very handy when your hands are wet, muddy, or full of gear. It also remembers your last brightness setting, so when you turn it off and on, it stays where you left it.
Where the Icon really stands out is in build quality. It has an IP67 waterproof rating, meaning it can survive being dunked in a metre of water for 30 minutes – ideal for wet weather trips. The polar mode also keeps it working when the temperature drops below freezing. It’s built for the tough stuff.
Now for the catch – it’s a bit bulky and heavy, and the switch can be quite stiff. Not a dealbreaker, but something to keep in mind if you prefer lighter kit.
3. Regatta 10 LED – Best Value Head Torch
If you’re after something cheap and cheerful that gets the job done, the Regatta 10 LED Head Torch is a cracking bargain. For under a fiver, you get a fully adjustable, lightweight head torch that’ll light your tent, help you brush your teeth, and stop you tripping over guy lines.
It comes with both a regular headband and an extra top strap, which gives it a secure fit no matter your head shape. The torch tilts up and down too, so you can aim the beam exactly where you need it – great when cooking or reading in the tent.
Now, let’s be clear – this isn’t going to light up the woods like a 700-lumen beast. It runs on ten small LEDs with a total output of 28 lumens. That’s enough for pottering about camp, not hiking mountains at midnight. There are three settings: low, high, and red flashing – but you’ll probably just leave it on high.
It’s powered by 3 AAA batteries, not rechargeable, but that’s fine for weekenders. You’ll get around 20 hours of runtime, and if you’re only using it for a few hours each night, it’ll last you ages.
Honestly? For the price, it’s brilliant. It’s not flashy, but it works. If your head torch needs are basic – tent use, short walks, emergencies – this one’s hard to beat.
4. Petzl Actik – Best Mid-Range Pick for All-Round Use
The Petzl Actik sits nicely in the sweet spot between performance and price. You get solid features, reliable brightness, and that Petzl build quality, without shelling out too much. It’s a great all-rounder, whether you’re night hiking, fishing, or just trying to find your socks at 3 a.m.
There are two versions: the standard 350-lumen model, and the 450-lumen Core version. I’d go with the standard – it’s bright enough for most jobs and comes in at a better price. You still get dual beam patterns, so you can switch between a broad flood for close work or a mixed beam to throw light further ahead.
No reactive lighting here – it’s all manual brightness control. But it’s simple to use, and the red light mode is a nice touch for preserving night vision or avoiding blinding your mates. The elastic headband is comfy and reflective, so you stay visible if you're moving about near roads or trails.
Power-wise, it runs on 3 AAA batteries (included), or you can upgrade to a CORE rechargeable battery if you want – but annoyingly, that’s sold separately. Still, the runtime on standard batteries is decent – about 3 hours on full blast – and at just 86g, it never feels heavy.
The button can be fiddly with gloves on, and the plastic build could feel sturdier, but overall, the Actik is a solid performer for most campers and hikers.
5. BioLite Headlamp 330 – Best for Lightweight Comfort
The BioLite Headlamp 330 takes a different approach – and it works. By shifting the rechargeable battery to the back of the head, it balances the weight better than most. That means less bouncing, slipping, or readjusting when you’re on the move.
It’s incredibly light — just 69 grams – but still manages to pump out 330 lumens. That’s top-class brightness-to-weight performance. You hardly notice it’s on, even after hours of use. The secret is in the design: the wiring runs through a slim, moisture-wicking headband that feels more like a sweatband than a torch strap.
Lighting options are spot on (literally). You get a spot beam, wide flood, and red light mode for night vision – all dimmable to suit your situation. It’s easy to switch between modes, and you can tilt the beam using the articulating front bezel to aim where you need it. At full brightness, you’ll get about 3.5 hours, and up to 40 hours on low.
Waterproofing is rated at IPX4, so it’ll survive splashes and rain, but maybe not a full storm. Still, I did not run into any problems during testing.
If you’re after an ultra-comfy, modern-feeling torch for long hikes or late-night camp tasks, this is a winner.
6. LED Lenser MH10 – Best for Beam Control and Versatility
If you want serious beam control and clever charging, the LED Lenser MH10 brings a lot to the table. It’s bright, rechargeable, and designed to handle a variety of lighting needs with one hand.
The Advanced Focus System lets you easily switch between flood and spot beams, or find the perfect middle ground. You can adjust the focus with a single hand using the Speed Focus slider, which is quick and smooth, even with gloves on.
It offers two lighting modes with multiple settings, so you can fine-tune things depending on your activity. It’s great for fast-paced hikes, setting up camp, or scanning far ahead on a dark trail.
Battery life is solid, and it charges up to 80% in just 3 hours – full charge takes 6 hours. The torch also has a low battery warning, which is a great touch so you’re not suddenly left in the dark. It charges via USB, so you can top it up from a power bank or solar panel.
Build-wise, it’s designed to withstand hot and cold weather, and it comes with a carry pouch, cable, and red and green lens filters. Just note the IPX4 rating – fine for general wet weather, but not a full dunk. Some users have reported minor charging issues, but I did not experience any problems myself.
Key Features to Look for in a Camping Head Torch
Don’t get distracted by big numbers or shiny ads. Think about how you’ll actually use your torch.
Brightness and Beam
Lumens matter, but so does how the light spreads. 350-500 lumens is more than enough for most campers. Beam settings – spot for trails, flood for camp chores – give you flexibility.
Battery Life and Power
No one enjoys a torch that fizzles out mid-chore. Rechargeables save cash and hassle. Always check battery life on max and low settings. Carry a power bank or spare batteries if wild camping—trust me, you won’t regret it during long winter nights.
Weight and Fit
Lighter is better for hiking. Heavier models work if you’re around camp or need extra durability. Wide or split bands stop the lamp sagging over your eyes – vital for glasses wearers or blustery sites.
Weatherproofing
British weather loves to surprise – drizzle in May, rain in August. Look for an IPX rating (4 or higher). Anything less, and you risk killing your torch in the first downpour.
Light Modes and Controls
Red or green modes save your night vision and keep bugs away. Dimmer settings extend battery life. Make sure the switch is glove-friendly – nobody wants to fumble in the dark.
Ease of Use
Can you lock it, so it doesn’t turn on in your bag? Easy to tilt down? Buttons work with cold hands? Small points, but they make a difference when you’re cold and fed up under dripping trees.
Choosing the Right Head Torch for You
Picture your average camp night. Are you rambling the moors, or brewing tea by the tent after a festival? Fishing alone, or managing midnight loo trips with the kids? Your ideal head torch matches your habits.
Ask yourself:
- How long do you need it to last between charges?
- Do you want rechargeable or keep it simple with AAAs?
- Are you bothered by a bit of extra weight for more features?
- Do you want maximum bug-banishment with red light?
Bring a backup or spare batteries. I’ve learned the hard way – best case, you impress your mates. Worst case, you avoid a very dark, very wet walk back to camp.
Final Note
Ignore fancy marketing. The best head torch for camping is the one that works for your adventures. If you’re new, go for simplicity and durability. As you get pickier, match your torch to your habits – weight, weatherproofing, coloured beams, and battery life.
Personally, I won’t camp without at least two lights; it’s a habit rooted in too many nights pitching late or searching for pegs with numb hands. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but don’t trust a supermarket special either.
Take it from someone who’s had soggy boots, spluttering torches, and lost guy ropes – choose wisely, pack a spare, and enjoy every minute outdoors. A good head torch won’t win you the wild, but it’ll keep you moving, dry, and smiling when the sun finally dips.
Explore our other camping guides and kit reviews at Camping Gear Guides for more honest tips!
