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Best picks

Best Head Torches for Camping in the UK (2026)

The Petzl ACTIK CORE is the most flexible all-round choice, with a rechargeable battery and AAA backup. For simpler campsite jobs, the lighter TIKKA keeps controls straightforward; choose a Black Diamond Spot for stronger water protection.

Quick answer

Petzl ACTIK CORE is our top camping pick for its 625-lumen maximum and choice of CORE rechargeable battery or three AAA cells. Pick the Petzl TIKKA for compact, close-range campsite use, the Ledlenser MH5 for a focused beam, or the Black Diamond Spot 400 for dual-fuel flexibility and a waterproof housing.

01Petzl ACTIK COREOfficial manufacturer image

Best for versatile campsite use

Petzl ACTIK CORE

  • Up to 625 lumens with the CORE battery and a mixed beam for nearby tasks and movement.
  • Runs on the included CORE rechargeable battery or three AAA batteries as a backup option.
  • Red light offers a lower-impact option around a shared camp.

Drawback: The maximum output runtime is listed as two hours, so use a lower setting for longer evenings.

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02Black Diamond Spot 400Official manufacturer image

Best for wet-weather campsites

Black Diamond Spot 400

  • IPX8 rating is designed to operate after immersion under the manufacturer's stated test conditions.
  • Dual-fuel design accepts three AAA batteries or a compatible BD 1500 rechargeable battery.
  • Proximity and distance modes cover tent tasks as well as walking around camp.

Drawback: The rechargeable BD 1500 battery is sold separately.

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03Petzl TIKKAOfficial manufacturer image

Best for simple tent and campsite tasks

Petzl TIKKA

  • Its wide, uniform beam is intended for close-up work and seeing around your feet.
  • A single button selects lighting, and continuous red light helps avoid dazzling people nearby.
  • Three AAA batteries are included, with compatibility for the CORE rechargeable battery sold separately.

Drawback: The wide beam is less suited to seeing far ahead than a focused or mixed beam.

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04

Best for a focused, adjustable beam

Ledlenser MH5

  • Advanced Focus System allows the beam to be focused for different tasks.
  • The magnetic charging system supports recharging, while disposable batteries are an alternative.
  • A front red light is available to preserve night vision.

Drawback: Its 400-lumen power mode is specified for four hours; runtime varies by setting.

05Black Diamond Spot 400-ROfficial manufacturer image

Best for rechargeable convenience

Black Diamond Spot 400-R

  • The integrated 1500 mAh lithium-ion battery recharges by micro-USB.
  • Offers proximity and distance lighting, dimming and red night-vision modes.
  • The manufacturer lists IP67 protection and a 400-lumen maximum output.

Drawback: Unlike the Spot 400, this rechargeable version does not offer AAA backup.

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06Fenix HM65ROfficial manufacturer image

Best for demanding, long-lasting outdoor use

Fenix HM65R

  • Separate spotlight and floodlight controls let you select a beam for distance or nearby work.
  • USB Type-C charging and compatibility with an 18650 rechargeable battery suit repeated use.
  • The manufacturer specifies IP68 protection and a magnesium body.

Drawback: At 97 g before the battery, it is heavier than several compact campsite options.

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Compare them side by side

Petzl ACTIK COREOfficial manufacturer imagePetzl ACTIK COREBlack Diamond Spot 400Official manufacturer imageBlack Diamond Spot 400Petzl TIKKAOfficial manufacturer imagePetzl TIKKALedlenser MH5Black Diamond Spot 400-ROfficial manufacturer imageBlack Diamond Spot 400-RFenix HM65ROfficial manufacturer imageFenix HM65R
Maximum output625 lm400 lm350 lm400 lm400 lm1400 lm
PowerCORE or 3 AAA3 AAA or BD 15003 AAA or CORERechargeable or disposableIntegrated Li-ion18650 or 2 CR123A
Weight88 g86 g (AAA)94 g—86 g97 g without battery
Water protectionIPX4IPX8IPX4—IP67IP68
Beam characterWide or mixedProximity and distanceWideFocus adjustableProximity and distanceSpotlight and floodlight
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Common questions

Questions before you buy

What is the best head torch for camping?

The Petzl ACTIK CORE is a strong all-round choice because it combines a mixed beam, red light and rechargeable or AAA power. A wide-beam model such as the Petzl TIKKA can be simpler for cooking and finding kit close to the tent.

How many lumens do I need for camping?

For cooking, reading and sorting gear near a tent, a moderate setting and a broad beam are often more useful than maximum output. More output can help when walking beyond the campsite, but it can shorten runtime.

Are rechargeable head torches suitable for camping?

Yes, especially when you can recharge between trips. For camps where charging is uncertain, consider a model with replaceable battery compatibility, such as the ACTIK CORE or Spot 400.

Is an IPX4 head torch waterproof enough for camping?

IPX4 denotes protection against water splashes, which can suit ordinary damp conditions. For heavy rain exposure or greater water protection, compare models with higher manufacturer-stated ratings and follow their care instructions.

Why is red light useful at a campsite?

Red light is less likely to dazzle people nearby and can help preserve dark-adapted vision. It is useful around a shared tent, though it is not a replacement for a bright white beam when navigating.

Sources and how we chose