The 10 Essentials of Hiking: Lighting

The wilderness operates on its own schedule. Even the best-planned day hike can stretch longer than expected, perhaps due to a stunning viewpoint that demanded more time, a slower pace due to rough terrain or big elevation gain, or any number of unexpected delays on the trail. And when the sun begins to dip below the ridge, that’s when you need to be ready. One of the Ten Essentials of Hiking—the foundational items every responsible hiker should carry—is lighting.

I remember a trip years ago where I relied on a small, heavy flashlight. It worked, but it was awkward, required one hand to operate, and gave me tunnel vision. It wasn't just inconvenient; it felt like a risk. It wasn’t water proof and I had to carry extra batteries that I also had to keep dry. 

As we gain experience and wisdom, we realize that the goal of lighting isn’t just to see, but to be safe, efficient, and comfortable when the light fades. For middle and older age adults, proper lighting is especially critical for maintaining balance and footing on uneven trails in the dark.

Here is a look at the best practices for lighting on the trail, focusing on the tools that make a real difference to your active outdoor lifestyle.

Why Carry Lighting Even for a Day Hike?

The answer to this question is in your first emergency. We carry light, not because we plan to be out after dark, but because we may need to be. An unexpected change in weather, a navigational error, or a minor injury that slows your pace can easily mean the difference between hiking in daylight and walking under the stars. Carrying a reliable light source is a non-negotiable insurance policy for your safety. And in the event rescuers are looking for you, a simple, inexpensive light could a life and death difference. 

Differentiating Your Lighting Tools

Not all light is created equal. There are times we need to light up a small task area and there are times we need to light up a large area. Some lighting tools will give you both functions, but let’s look each one.

The Task Light

A headlamp is a great tool for walking and tasks.

• Hands-Free Operation. This is the most significant advantage. A headlamp allows you to use your hands to hold trekking poles, filter water, pitch a tent, or administer first aid. For stability on a dark trail, being able to rely on both hands is essential.
• Beam Focus. Modern headlamps offer various settings: a focused beam for seeing far down the trail and a diffused beam for lighting up your immediate area around camp.
• Red Light Option. Many headlamps include a red light mode. This feature is excellent for tasks like looking at a map or finding gear inside your tent because it preserves your night vision. When you switch back to darkness, your eyes don't have to strain to re-adjust. A red light option is also good for being in a group of people at night; the red light isn’t so harsh.

The Area Light

While a headlamp is necessary for motion, a lantern is for creating a sense of home and comfort at camp. This function is far less important, even unnecessary, in emergency situations.

• Atmosphere and Ambiance. A small, lightweight LED lantern or a DIY light diffuser (like strapping a headlamp around a translucent water bottle) provides soft, dispersed light that brightens a cooking area or the inside of a large tent. This prevents the harsh shadows a headlamp creates and makes it easier to socialize or relax.
• Battery Reliability. Since lanterns usually stay in one place, they often rely on larger or less-frequently changed batteries, making them a very reliable light source for long evenings.

Best Practices: Powering Your Light

The best light in the world is useless with dead batteries.

• Always Start Full. Replace or recharge your batteries before every trip, even if you only used the light briefly on the last outing.
• Carry a Backup. I always carry a small power bank or a spare set of batteries specifically for my headlamp. This ensures that even if an unexpected event drains the primary power, you have a reserve. I once accidentally left my light on in my pack all day. Of course, the battery was dead when I needed it. This is where the battery bank saved the day.
• Storage Strategy. Store your extra batteries facing opposite directions in your headlamp or outside of the device in a water proof bag. This prevents accidental activation during transit, which can kill your battery before you even need it.

Carrying the proper lighting equipment isn't just a rule; it's a vital part of taking care of yourself and your partners in the wild. By packing smart and utilizing the right tools, you ensure that your active outdoor lifestyle is safe, comfortable, and fully illuminated, no matter what time the day ends.