No need for winter campers to stayin the dark on the best light sources

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February 11, 1999

No need for winter campers to stayin the dark on the best light sources

By KRISTIN HOSTETTER
SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER

I've made plenty of blunders in my backcountry career, but this was a doozy! On the first night of a three-day solo winter camping trip, I realized that the batteries in my headlamp were dead and I had forgotten to pack the spares.

The days were only eight hours short, and those three nights were the longest and blackest I can remember. Luckily, I was able to catch up on some much needed sleep, but it made me realize how essential a bright, reliable light is -- especially during the long nights of winter.

You've got a number of backcountry lighting options, each with pros and cons. Here are some tips to decide which is best for you.

Headlamp: Because I like my hands free to stir the soup, turn the page, or pitch the tent, this is my favorite option. Just pull the straps over your head and make like a lighthouse -- the beam follows your every gaze.

Many headlamps have adjustable beams so you can either pinpoint the light or open it up for a wider range.

Headlamps run on AA batteries. You'll find ultralight options that use two, or heavier and brighter beams that accept four. No matter which type you choose, look for a secure off/on switch, so the light doesn't turn itself on inside your pack.

Flashlight: This is an economical option for folks who don't mind sacrificing a hand to hold their light.

Flashlights come in all shapes and sizes, from the magic-marker-size lights to jumbo nightwatchman style beams. Most backpackers find the minilights sufficient and easier to pack. Many flashlight users clamp these smaller lights between their teeth to get the hands-free headlamp effect.

If the thought of cold metal in your mouth gives you goose bumps, try wrapping the end of your light in duct tape. Also, you can buy straps that let you lash the light to your head for the headlamp effect, or rig one up on your own with a headband and some clever stitching.

Lantern: For illuminating a large area such as a campsite or kitchen area, nothing beats a gas lantern, which gives off a warm, wide pool of light.

Lanterns come in a variety of sizes and run on gas cartridges that let you stand them upright or hang them.

Gas lanterns work best in warmer temperatures, and they require a bit of extra care. For instance, you have to keep the mantle intact and take care to pack the lantern so as not to break the glass globe. Many minilanterns come with padded cases that do the trick.

(Note: If you use a gas canister stove, be sure to get a gas lantern that operates on the same type of canister, so you don't have to pack two different types.)

Candle lantern: There's no simpler way to light up your life than a little candle lantern. They provide warmth, a romantic ambience, and you can rest easy knowing that you're not contributing to landfill problems with batteries and empty gas cartridges.

You can find candle lanterns in tiny votive sizes, all the way up to a three-candle unit, which is great for car camping or paddling trips.

If you opt for a candle lantern, spend the extra few bucks on a padded case to prevent the glass globe from breaking inside your pack.