Hiking is an interesting outdoor activity, but do you need to carry a flashlight? All hikers should have a hiking torch. Some problems can arise and if you don’t have the right visibility, navigating in the dark can be hard.
Having the best hiking torch ensures your safety and you are not prone to falls and trips. There are many other reasons why you need a hiking flashlight. Keep reading to find out the reasons why a hiking flashlight is important.
Importance of a Hiking Flashlight
It is essential to have a flashlight for hiking at night. They illuminate your path at night and it is easy to overcome any potential danger. Even daytime hikers need LED torches just in case the weather changes. Below are the benefits of carrying an ultralight backpacking flashlight.
Illumination
While hiking can be exciting, you need to know that you are exploring the mountains, woods, rocks, and other terrains. Doing such activities in the dark can be frightening. Without proper lighting, you can hardly see your trail or where you are headed to. A quality hiking flashlight can illuminate your way and keep you heading in the right direction.
1. Avoid Dangers
There are many obstacles and dangers you can come across when hiking. Lack of proper illumination can put you in danger like snakes, roots, rocks, and wild animals among others. A hiking flashlight can help you see the obstacles ahead to keep you out of danger.
2. Giving Direction
Not only does a torch help you see your path but also it can help you signal and give directions. If you are hiking as a team, in some cases you can get separated from your team members. You can use a torch to call for help and other team members can track you easily. it is good to consider a hiking flashlight that has a strobe mode.
3. Emergencies
Sometimes when landing for outdoor adventures, camping might not be on your list. But since no one knows what is bound to happen next, your partner can get injured along the way. If he/she can’t walk back to where you came from, impromptu camping can be necessary until you get medical assistance. Such scenarios call for a flashlight. You can easily see your environment, get shelter and camping essentials like firewood.
4. Unexpected Events
When hiking, you should also be prepared for unexpected events because we can’t foresee what will happen in the future. Sometimes the sunny and bright weather can turn into a thunderstorm. You can also find yourself in thick forests or other places where visibility is poor. A flashlight can help you navigate through the darkness.
How to Pick the Right Hiking Flashlight
Now that you understand the importance of having a hiking flashlight, you should also know how to choose the right one. These are the essential factors you should consider.
Waterproof
The weather outdoors can be unpredictable at times. That is why you need a reliable flashlight that can handle all outdoor conditions. Your walking flashlight should withstand moist environments that that is why it should be waterproof. If it is not waterproof, then it should be water-resistant. This avoids shorting out or getting damaged by water.
Battery
Carrying a flashlight without reliable batteries can still put you at home. You don’t want your flashlight’s battery dead when you are halfway. You can avoid this problem by checking your batteries before you head out for your hike. If you have a rechargeable hiking flashlight, make sure it is fully charged before packing it in your hiking backpack.
Additionally, it can be a great idea if you carry a portable power bank to charge your batteries when they are drained. If you choose to use the standard batteries, ensure you carry some spare batteries because you might need to use them.
Weight
Packing light is essential for any outdoor activity. Therefore, you should consider the weight of the flashlight before you buy. If you are engaging in multi-day trekking, then picking lighter hiking gear can do you good. You can browse for ultralight flashlight for hiking that are great for your hiking adventures.
Red Light
Some flashlights are equipped with additional red light. This type of light sends long waves and it is calm and stable. You can use this light for tent illumination and it doesn’t damage or blind your eyes. 5the light is essential when observing animals at night because most animals do not see red color.
Comfort and Durability
Comfort is key when hiking. Getting comfortable hiking lights makes your adventure less stressful. If you choose to get a headlamp, ensure the headband is comfortable enough to allow continuous use. if you choose a flashlight, look for lightweight and compact models.
When it comes to durability, using a headlamp can get easily scratched by branches or soak in sweat, raindrops, and mist among other conditions. Always consider buying a light made of durable materials. Do not settle for low-quality lights because they can’t serve you longer.
Secure your Flashlight
Ensure you carry your flashlight in a secure and safe place. The last thing you need when hiking is to discover that you accidentally lost your flashlight. If you like holding your flashlight with your hands, ensure that you get models that come with a safety rope. It keeps the flashlight safe and at your fingertips whenever you need it.
Conclusion
Night hiking whether planned or unintentional is prone to many unforeseen circumstances. It is good to prepare in advance to enjoy your hiking. A brighter and powerful flashlight can make your hikes great and they are also useful in emergencies.
When planning your hiking trip, a hiking flashlight should be among your hiking essentials. We cannot underestimate the importance of having a backpack flashlight. It is essential to have a flashlight whether hiking during the day or at night. Carrying a flashlight helps you to stay prepared and overcome the unexpected.
