10 Best Backpacking Headlamps 2025 in the United States

The LHKNL headlamp is a strong contender for campers, hikers, and backpackers thanks to its impressive brightness and handy features. With a white light output of up to 1200 lumens and a beam distance around 300 feet, it can easily illuminate trails or your campsite. Its rechargeable 1500mAh lithium-ion battery lasts between 4 to 10 hours depending on the mode, which is suitable for multi-night trips if you can recharge regularly. The headlamp is very lightweight at just 1.87 ounces, making it comfortable for extended wear without feeling bulky. It also has a 60° adjustable lamp head, allowing you to direct light exactly where you need it.

In terms of water resistance, it offers an IPX4 rating, meaning it can handle rain or snow but shouldn’t be submerged. The 8 lighting modes, including white and red lights plus a useful motion sensor that lets you turn the light on or off with a wave of your hand, add versatility for different situations like night reading, signaling, or preserving night vision. While the IPX4 rating is good for wet conditions, it is not fully waterproof for heavy water exposure. Battery life, while respectable, may require carrying a power bank for longer trips without access to charging. Additionally, the motion sensor might accidentally activate if your hand passes nearby unintentionally.

This headlamp comes in a two-pack, which is a great value for groups or as a backup. It is well suited for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a bright, lightweight, and rechargeable headlamp with multiple modes and convenient controls, though those wanting deeper water resistance or ultra-long battery life may prefer other options.

The BLACK DIAMOND Spot 400 LED Headlamp is a versatile and reliable choice for backpacking and outdoor activities. It delivers a powerful brightness of 400 lumens, which is sufficient for most night-time activities like camping, hiking, and running. The headlamp features multiple modes, including proximity and distance settings, dimming, strobe, and a red LED night-vision mode.

The PowerTap Technology enables quick adjustments between the maximum output and dimmed power, making it convenient when you need to change brightness levels on the go. Another handy feature is the Brightness Memory, allowing you to turn the light on and off at a chosen brightness without resetting it each time. With an impressive battery life of up to 200 hours and a lightweight design of just 1.6 ounces, it’s easy to carry and won’t weigh you down.

The headlamp operates on 3 AAA batteries, which are not included, and it’s made from durable polycarbonate material. Additionally, it boasts an IPX8 waterproof rating, ensuring it can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, some users might find the need for frequent battery replacements inconvenient, and the initial cost of the headlamp, coupled with buying batteries, could be a downside. Despite this, the BLACK DIAMOND Spot 400 LED Headlamp's array of features and solid performance make it a great option for outdoor enthusiasts.

The PETZL Actik Core headlamp is a great choice for backpackers looking for a lightweight, versatile, and powerful lighting solution. Weighing just 88 grams and delivering up to 600 lumens, it provides ample brightness for a variety of outdoor activities. The headlamp offers three white lighting levels—MAX BURN TIME, STANDARD, and MAX POWER—allowing users to balance brightness and battery life according to their needs. It also features red lighting, which is useful for preserving night vision and signaling location.

The headlamp is rechargeable via a micro USB port and comes with a CORE rechargeable battery, but can also be used with three AAA batteries if needed. This hybrid design adds flexibility, but keep in mind that the AAA batteries are not included. The LOCK function is a thoughtful addition, preventing accidental activation during transit or storage. Water resistance is rated at IPX4, making it suitable for use in light rain, but it might not withstand heavy downpours or submersion.

The headlamp is compatible with HELMET ADAPT and BIKE ADAPT 2 mounts for added versatility, though it is not certified for road use. With a long runtime of up to 160 hours and a comfortable fit, the PETZL Actik Core is well-suited for dynamic outdoor activities. However, users looking for a headlamp with more robust water resistance may want to consider other options. Additionally, while the rechargeable battery is convenient, some may prefer a model that offers even longer battery life per charge. Despite these minor drawbacks, the PETZL Actik Core remains a solid and reliable option for backpacking and other outdoor pursuits.