For backpackers, they can be a lifesaver—and true safety tool—for dusk and dawn hikes as well, or early morning runs before the rest of camp wakes up.
Novice campers often forget or forgo headlamps, but we consider the hands-free light an essential. They are incredibly useful for cooking in the dark, evening trips to refill the water jug, or late-night repairs. For backpackers, they can be a lifesaver—and true safety tool—for dusk and dawn hikes as well, or early morning runs before the rest of camp wakes up. The Biolite Headlamp 330 is our pick: It’s incredibly lightweight, has a slim profile, and has several lighting modes including a flood light, red light, and strobe. It can also last for 40 hours on one charge, and the removable battery pack is rechargeable with a micro-USB cable. It comes in two colors: a soothing teal, and an easy-to-spot marigold yellow.