Best Propane Camp Lanterns 2023

Propane camp lanterns are a great way to light up your campsite, whether you are car camping, backpacking, or just enjoying the outdoors. Propane lanterns are easy to use, reliable, and offer a bright and warm glow. However, not all propane lanterns are created equal. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best propane lantern for your needs, such as brightness, burn time, weight, size, durability, and features.

Product	Lumens	Run Time	Weight	Dimensions	Features	Price	Rating
Coleman QuickPack 2-Mantle Propane Lantern	1000	7.5 hours on high, 13 hours on low	5.4 lbs	15.8 x 7.8 x 7.8 inches	InstaStart ignition, adjustable brightness, carry case included	$33.76	4.7 out of 5 stars
Coleman Deluxe Propane Lantern	1000	7 hours on high, 13 hours on low	3.6 lbs	12 x 8 x 8 inches	Pressure control system, adjustable brightness, carry handle included	$34.84	4.7 out of 5 stars
Coleman NorthStar Propane Lantern	1500	4 hours on high, 9 hours on low	4.6 lbs	12 x 8 x 8 inches	InstaStart ignition, pressure regulator, adjustable brightness, carry handle included	$56.76	4.6 out of 5 stars
Coleman Two-Mantle Propane Lantern with Case	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	Match light ignition, adjustable brightness, hard carry case included	$49.12	4.6 out of 5 stars
Coleman Powerhouse Dual-Fuel Lantern	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	Match light ignition, adjustable brightness, dual-fuel compatible (propane or liquid fuel)	$59.99	4.5 out of 5 stars

 

The Coleman Mantle InstaStart QuickPack

Short Description: The Coleman Mantle InstaStart QuickPack Lantern is an upgraded version of the older propane lantern models. Designed to be compact, user-friendly, and bright, this lantern uses propane canisters as fuel. It features an igniter and comes with a protective case for storage.

Pros:

1. Upgraded from Older Models: Many users highlighted the enhanced features compared to older models, noting its brighter illumination and added igniter.
2. Self-Lighting: The InstaStart function makes it easy to light without requiring matches or lighters.
3. Compact and Bright: The lantern provides ample light while maintaining a compact design, making it ideal for various outdoor activities.
4. Uses Propane Canisters: This allows for cleaner fuel usage and less mess when compared to traditional white gas lanterns.
5. Protective Case: Comes with a sturdy protective case to safeguard the lantern when not in use.
6. Good Value: Some users felt the product offers good value for its price.

Cons:

1. Durability Concern: One user mentioned the glass breaking due to heat after a few uses.

What People Say:

• Most users are content with the lantern, appreciating its bright illumination, the igniter feature, and the protective case.
• Users found it convenient for activities that require strong lighting, such as night fishing, emphasizing how it meets expectations for the Coleman brand’s quality.
• The lantern’s compactness, ease of use, and the choice of propane canisters as fuel are seen as notable upgrades from traditional models.
• However, a point of concern raised by a user is the potential fragility of the glass, which reportedly broke due to the heat.

Note: One review did not provide substantial information regarding the product’s performance as the user had not yet used it.

 

Coleman 1000 Lumens Deluxe

The Coleman Propane Lantern is a versatile outdoor lighting solution suitable for various activities, including camping and fishing. It offers bright and adjustable lighting, uses propane for fuel, and is compact for easy storage and transport.

Pros:

1. Convenient Fuel Source: Uses propane, eliminating the need for liquid fuel, pumping, and potential spills associated with traditional lanterns.
2. Bright and Adjustable: Provides ample illumination with adjustable intensity settings to suit different lighting needs.
3. Compact Design: The lantern is easy to store and transport, thanks to its removable propane canister and detachable base.
4. Durable Construction: Sturdy build with a robust globe, making it suitable for outdoor use.

Cons:

1. Control Knob Quality: Some users find the control knob to be of lower quality, and the preset intensity clicks may not provide precise control.
2. Footing Concerns: There are worries about the lantern’s footing, with concerns about the possibility of it breaking off.
3. Not Ideal for Indoor Use: Not suitable for use in enclosed spaces due to the combustion process and heat generated.
4. Noisy Operation: Can be noisier compared to older fuel lanterns, which could be a slight inconvenience for some users.

Customer Reviews:

1. Review 1: Positive and concise, expressing love for the product.
2. Review 2: Briefly praises the product as “great.”
3. Review 3: States personal use for night fishing, indicating its suitability for outdoor activities.
4. Review 4: Mixed review. Initially, the user was dissatisfied but later found it practical for Boy Scouts.
5. Review 5: Describes the product as great and functioning as expected.
6. Review 6: Compares it to a previous lantern that lasted for years, implying durability.
7. Review 7: Highlights the need for secure transportation and mentions it as a basic kit.
8. Review 8: Offers a positive overview, mentioning nostalgia for older lanterns and emphasizing safety precautions.
9. Review 9: Praises the brightness and longevity but notes issues with mantles, possibly user-related.
10. Review 10: A long-time user of Coleman fuel lanterns praises the switch to propane for ease of use, storage, and less odor, while acknowledging the noise as a minor inconvenience.

Overall, the Coleman Propane Lantern receives mixed feedback, with some users appreciating its convenience and brightness, while others find it lacking compared to traditional liquid fuel lanterns. It seems well-suited for outdoor activities like camping and fishing but may not be the best choice for those seeking a lantern for indoor use or precise control of light intensity.

Coleman Northstar Propane Lantern

The Coleman Portable Camping Lantern is a reliable outdoor lighting solution suitable for camping, emergencies, and outdoor activities. This lantern uses gasoline or white gas (Coleman fuel) and provides a bright and adjustable light source.

Pros:

1. Reliable Illumination: Provides bright and adjustable light suitable for various scenarios.
2. Long Run Time: Offers extended operation on a single tank of fuel, making it cost-effective.
3. Versatile Fuel Options: Can use gasoline or white gas (Coleman fuel) as a fuel source.
4. Durable Build: Well-made and sturdy construction ensures longevity.
5. Carrying Case: Comes with a strong carrying case for protection and storage.

Cons:

1. Noise: Generates a constant whooshing sound while in use, which can be bothersome to some.
2. Learning Curve: Users may find it slightly challenging to use initially, with a learning curve.
3. Maintenance Required: Requires maintenance, including changing mantles and cleaning.
4. Fire Hazard: Due to flammable fuels, it poses a fire hazard, requiring careful handling.
5. Heat Emission: Produces a significant amount of heat, necessitating caution near flammable materials.
6. Fuel Spillage: Refueling can be messy, leading to fuel spills.

Customer Reviews:

1. Review 1: Brief and positive, expressing satisfaction with the product’s condition upon arrival.
2. Review 2: Describes the evolution of the product’s specified light output and highlights the user’s preference for nostalgia and outdoor use. Lists pros and cons.
3. Review 3: Emphasizes the lantern’s suitability for emergencies and camping, describing its build quality and some limitations.
4. Review 4: A simple statement indicating the purchase as a replacement for a previous lantern.
5. Review 5: Criticizes the quality of the provided cover and mentions the lantern’s noise level.
6. Review 6: Expresses anticipation of satisfaction based on past experiences with Coleman products. Comments on the case’s design.
7. Review 7: Praises the lantern’s versatility and quality, including a note about the globe’s origin.
8. Review 8: Highlights the lantern’s smaller size compared to older models and personal preference for larger units.
9. Discusses the lantern’s brightness, fuel efficiency, and case concerns. Provides advice on mantle replacement and globe compatibility.
10. Commends the Coleman Lantern for its reliability, brilliant light, and iconic status.

Overall, the Coleman Portable Camping Lantern receives positive feedback for its reliability, brightness, and versatility, especially for outdoor use and emergencies. However, some users mention noise, maintenance, and handling precautions as drawbacks. The nostalgia associated with this classic product is also a point of appreciation for certain customers.

 

 

Coleman Two-Mantle Propane Lantern with Case

The Coleman Two-Mantle Propane Lantern is a versatile outdoor lighting solution designed for camping and emergencies. It provides bright illumination, comes with a protective case, and is easy to use with propane fuel.

Pros:

1. Bright Illumination: Users praise the lantern for its impressive brightness, making it suitable for various outdoor activities and emergencies.
2. Protective Case: The included hard case keeps the lantern and mantles secure during storage and transport, preventing damage.
3. Ease of Use: It’s straightforward to assemble and operate, making it a convenient choice for campers and those in need of reliable emergency lighting.
4. Durable Construction: Many users appreciate the lantern’s sturdy build quality, ensuring longevity and reliability.
5. Resilient: A user accidentally cast the lantern onto concrete without causing significant damage, highlighting its robust construction.

Cons:

1. Thread Concerns: Some users express concerns about the soft aluminum threads, particularly when attaching the lantern to propane tanks. They recommend taking care not to over-tighten to prevent cross-threading.
2. Lack of Ignition: The lantern does not have a built-in ignition, requiring users to use matches or a torch to light it.
3. Loud Low-Level Setting: The low-level setting emits a loud, piercing howling noise, rendering it impractical for late-night dim lighting. This design flaw disappoints some users.

User Reviews Summary:

1. A humorous user praises the lantern for its brightness and protective case, anticipating its use on a camping trip.
2. Another user values the lantern as a camping and emergency essential, emphasizing the importance of the case for mantle protection.
3. A cautious reviewer highlights the lantern’s bright light, advises careful handling during propane attachment, and expresses satisfaction with the purchase.
4. A user lauds the lantern as a durable and dependable choice for camping, with ongoing satisfaction after several years of occasional use.
5. A satisfied customer recounts a lantern accident, revealing its resilience with no significant damage after being cast onto concrete.
6. A long-time Coleman lantern user appreciates the protective case, which prevents damage during transportation and storage.
7. A brief review commends the lantern’s performance in the dark.
8. A user finds the lantern easy to use but expresses concerns about the gas knob’s flimsiness.
9. While the lantern provides good illumination, a reviewer notes a design flaw causing a loud noise on the low-level setting, rendering it unsuitable for dim lighting.
10. A user initially found the instructions confusing but ultimately enjoyed the lantern’s illumination for their campsite.

 

The Coleman Dual Fuel Powerhouse Lantern

The Coleman Dual Fuel Powerhouse Lantern is a versatile outdoor lighting solution known for its exceptional brightness and ability to use both Coleman liquid fuel and unleaded gasoline. It offers reliable illumination and a durable build, suitable for camping and emergency situations.

Pros:

1. Bright Illumination: The lantern provides a remarkable 1,107 lumens of light, making it exceptionally bright for various outdoor activities.
2. Dual Fuel Capability: It can run on both Coleman liquid fuel and unleaded gasoline, offering flexibility and ease of refueling, especially in emergencies.
3. Economical: Using Coleman liquid fuel is more cost-effective than propane, and it offers the same performance.
4. Durable Build: The lantern is praised for its robust construction, harking back to the quality of older Coleman products.
5. Adjustable Settings: It offers variable brightness settings, from high intensity to a warm, dim glow for different lighting needs.
6. Quiet Operation: Users appreciate the lantern’s quieter operation compared to expectations, with the hiss of the fuel being described as soothing.
7. Emergency Preparedness: The ability to run on unleaded gasoline adds to its utility in emergency situations.
8. Auxiliary Igniter Compatibility: Users note that the lantern can be used with an auxiliary flint igniter, enhancing convenience and ease of use.
9. Mantle Replacement: Mantle replacements are readily available and easy to install, ensuring continued performance.

Cons:

1. Price: Some users find the lantern slightly overpriced, although its performance justifies the cost.
2. Availability of Vintage Models: One user mentions a preference for vintage single mantle lanterns, which are no longer available.

User Reviews Summary:

1. A user in Colorado appreciates the lantern’s dual fuel capability, citing its historical reliability and longevity.
2. While praising the lantern’s brightness, one reviewer mentions it as slightly overpriced.
3. A long-time owner of a Dual Fuel Powerhouse lantern highlights its durability and the convenience of using regular unleaded fuel.
4. A fan of vintage single mantle lanterns finds this model to be a suitable replacement.
5. Another user reports continued satisfaction with their older version of the lantern.
6. A reviewer fondly recalls the quality of the lantern, comparing it favorably to its predecessors.
7. A satisfied customer emphasizes the lantern’s build quality and emergency preparedness, with a note on carbon monoxide safety.
8. A Spanish-speaking user commends the lantern’s brightness, ease of use, and longevity, recommending it.
9. A user expresses nostalgia for older Coleman lanterns and hopes for the return of such items.
10. A comprehensive review highlights the lantern’s brightness, quiet operation, cost-effectiveness, and versatility in using different fuels. The user also offers tips on using an auxiliary igniter and emphasizes the importance of carrying spare mantles. Overall, they anticipate many years of use from this lantern.

How to Choose Propane Camp Lanterns

When shopping for a propane camp lantern, you should look for the following aspects:

• Brightness: The brightness of a lantern is measured in lumens, which indicate how much light it emits. The higher the lumens, the brighter the lantern. However, brighter is not always better, as it can also drain more fuel and battery power. You should look for a lantern that has an adjustable brightness level, so you can choose the right amount of light for different situations. Some lanterns also have different modes, such as high, low, or strobe, for added versatility.
• Size and Weight: The size and weight of a lantern affect its portability and convenience. You should look for a lantern that is compact and lightweight enough to carry around easily, but not too small that it compromises its performance or stability. You should also consider the size and weight of the propane cylinder that the lantern uses, as it will add to the overall load.
• Durability: A good propane camp lantern should be able to withstand outdoor conditions and rough handling. You should look for a lantern that has a sturdy and durable construction, such as metal or plastic casing, shatter-resistant glass or plastic globe, and corrosion-resistant components. You should also look for a lantern that has some protection against water and dust, such as rubber seals or gaskets.
• Features: Some propane camp lanterns have extra features that can enhance their functionality and convenience. For example, some lanterns have a built-in ignition system that allows you to light them without matches or lighters. Some lanterns have a pressure regulator that maintains a consistent gas flow and prevents flaring or dimming. Some lanterns have a battery-powered LED light that can be used as a backup or emergency light. Some lanterns have a USB port that can charge your devices or power other accessories.
• Price: The price of a propane camp lantern depends on its quality, performance, and features. You should look for a lantern that offers good value for money and fits your budget. However, you should not compromise on safety or reliability, as cheap or poorly made lanterns can pose fire hazards or malfunction.

FAQ about Propane Camp Lanterns

Here are some common questions and answers about propane camp lanterns:

• What is the best battery operated lantern?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as different battery operated lanterns have different advantages and disadvantages. However, some of the factors that make a good battery operated lantern are long battery life, high brightness, low weight, multiple modes, water resistance, and durability. One of the best battery operated lanterns we tested is the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600¹, which has a rechargeable battery that can also charge your devices via USB port. It has an adjustable brightness level up to 600 lumens and can run for up to 48 hours on low mode. It also has a hand crank option for emergency power.

• Are rechargeable lanterns worth it?

Rechargeable lanterns can be worth it if you use them frequently and have access to a power source to recharge them. Rechargeable lanterns can save you money and hassle in the long run by eliminating the need to buy disposable batteries or fuel cylinders. They can also be more eco-friendly by reducing waste and emissions. However, rechargeable lanterns can also have some drawbacks, such as higher initial cost, lower brightness, shorter run time, and dependency on electricity.

• How long do batteries last in a lantern?

The battery life of a lantern depends on several factors, such as the type and quality of the batteries, the brightness level of the lantern, the ambient temperature, and how often you use it. Generally speaking, alkaline batteries last longer than zinc-carbon batteries, lithium batteries last longer than alkaline batteries, and rechargeable batteries last longer than disposable batteries. However, rechargeable batteries also lose their capacity over time and need to be replaced eventually.

The battery life of a lantern is usually measured in hours of continuous use on a certain mode or setting. For example, the Coleman Rugged Rechargeable 400L LED Lantern² has a battery life of 5 hours on high mode and 20 hours on low mode. However, this is only an estimate and may vary depending on the actual conditions.

• How long does a Coleman battery lantern last?

Coleman battery lanterns have different models and specifications, so their battery life may vary. However, most Coleman battery lanterns have a BatteryGuard™ technology that prevents battery drain when the lantern is turned off, extending their life by up to 25%. For example, the Coleman 1000 Lumens LED Lantern with BatteryGuard™³ has a battery life of 14 hours on high mode and 200 hours on low mode. However, this is only an estimate and may vary depending on the actual conditions.

Conclusion

Propane camp lanterns are a great way to light up your campsite, cabin, or backyard with a warm and cozy glow. They are easy to use, reliable, and can last for hours on a single propane cylinder. However, not all propane camp lanterns are created equal, and you should consider several factors before buying one, such as brightness, size, weight, durability, features, and price.

To help you choose the best propane camp lantern for your needs and budget, we have reviewed some of the best propane camp lanterns available in 2023. Here are our top picks:

• Best Overall: Coleman NorthStar 1500 Lumens 1-Mantle Propane Lantern⁴. This lantern has a powerful and adjustable brightness level up to 1500 lumens and can run for up to 4 hours on high mode or 9 hours on low mode. It has a push-button ignition system, a pressure regulator, and a porcelain ventilator that make it easy to use and durable. It also comes with a carrying case and a mantle included.
• Best Budget: Stansport Compact Single Mantle Propane Lantern⁵. This lantern is a simple and affordable option that provides a decent brightness level of 200 lumens and can run for up to 8 hours on a single propane cylinder. It has a metal mesh globe that protects the mantle from wind and rain and a bail handle that allows you to hang it or carry it. It also comes with a mantle included.
• Best Rechargeable: Goal Zero Lighthouse 600¹. This lantern is a versatile and convenient option that has a rechargeable battery that can also charge your devices via USB port. It has an adjustable brightness level up to 600 lumens and can run for up to 48 hours on low mode or 2.5 hours on high mode. It also has a hand crank option for emergency power and a collapsible stand that allows you to hang it or place it on any surface.