Torches

Portable Lighting for Camping, Travel and Everyday Jobs

A good torch is one of those essentials that earns its place quickly. Around camp, it helps you find your way to the toilet block, check guy lines, look inside bags, spot tent pegs and move safely after dark.

At home, a torch is useful for garages, sheds, lofts, power cuts and night-time jobs. On the move, it can sit in your glovebox, rucksack, work bag or coat pocket so you’ve always got extra light close to hand.

For UK use, where dark evenings, wet weather and low-light conditions are common, a reliable torch is a simple but valuable piece of kit.

How to Choose the Right Torch

Start by thinking about where you’ll use your torch most. For camping and general outdoor use, you may want a torch with a strong beam, comfortable grip and good battery life. For everyday carry, a smaller torch that fits easily in a pocket or bag may be more practical.

Key decision factors include brightness, beam distance, beam type, battery life, charging method, size, weight, grip, water resistance, durability, carry options and ease of use in the dark.

It’s also worth checking how the torch feels for the job. A very small torch is easy to carry, but it may not give enough light for longer walks. A larger torch may be brighter and easier to grip, but it can take up more room in your kit.

Handheld Torches vs Head Torches

Handheld torches give you a controlled, directional beam. They are ideal for walking, checking your pitch, looking into cupboards or bags, inspecting vehicle areas and lighting up a specific point.

Head torches are better when you need both hands free. They are useful for cooking, pitching a tent, carrying water, fixing kit, walking dogs or working in low light.

The trade-off is control versus convenience. A handheld torch is easy to aim exactly where you want it, while a head torch lets you work hands-free. Many campers and outdoor users carry both.

Rechargeable Torches vs Battery Torches

Rechargeable torches are convenient if you use a torch regularly. You can charge them before a trip and top them up using a suitable charger, power bank, vehicle socket or campsite power supply, depending on the model.

Battery torches are useful as backups because you can pack spare batteries and replace them when needed. They are a practical choice for emergency kits, occasional use, festivals and situations where charging access is limited.

The right choice depends on how often you’ll use the torch. If it’s part of your regular kit, rechargeable may be more convenient. If it’s mainly for backup, a battery-powered torch may be easier to store and keep ready.

Compact Torches vs Larger Torches

Compact torches are lightweight, easy to carry and simple to store. They are ideal for pockets, gloveboxes, festival bags, camping organisers and everyday use.

Larger torches usually offer a bigger grip, more presence in the hand and, depending on the model, stronger output or longer runtime. They can be better for outdoor work, vehicle checks, longer walks and regular campsite use.

The trade-off is portability versus performance. A compact torch is more likely to be with you when you need it, while a larger torch may be more useful for demanding tasks.

Useful Torch Features to Look For

A good torch should be easy to switch on, comfortable to hold and bright enough for your intended use. Adjustable brightness can help preserve battery life, while different beam modes can make the torch more flexible.

A wide beam is useful for close-up tasks, such as sorting camping gear or lighting a small area. A focused beam is better for seeing further ahead on paths, fields or dark campsites.

Other useful features may include wrist straps, pocket clips, magnetic bases, textured grips, rechargeable batteries, battery indicators and water-resistant designs. Always check the product details to make sure the torch suits your intended conditions.

Torches for Camping, Walking and Emergency Kits

For camping, a torch works well alongside lanterns and head torches. A lantern lights your tent or table, a head torch keeps your hands free, and a handheld torch gives you a stronger beam for walking and checking your surroundings.

For walking and dog walking, choose a torch that is comfortable to carry, easy to operate and suitable for the routes you use. For emergency kits, look for something simple, dependable and easy to store with spare batteries or charging accessories where needed.

Before travelling, test your torch, charge it if required and pack a backup light. A torch is only useful if it works when the lights go out.

Using Torches Safely

Avoid shining bright torches directly into people’s eyes, neighbouring tents, vehicles or nearby homes. High-output beams can be uncomfortable and distracting when used carelessly.

Keep batteries, charging cables and small accessories away from young children. If your torch uses removable batteries, use only compatible batteries and follow the product guidance.

Store your torch somewhere easy to find. At camp, that might be a tent pocket, bedside organiser or cooking box. At home, it could be a drawer, garage shelf or emergency kit.

Shop Torches Online

Browse our torches range to find practical lighting for camping, walking, work, travel, power cuts and everyday use. Compare compact torches, rechargeable torches, battery torches and brighter handheld options to choose the right torch for the way you use it.

Torches FAQs

What is a torch used for?

A torch is used to provide portable light in dark or low-light conditions. It is useful for camping, walking, vehicle checks, power cuts, work tasks, travel, dog walking and emergency kits.

How do I choose the right torch?

Choose a torch by comparing brightness, beam distance, battery life, size, weight, charging method, grip, water resistance and how you’ll carry it. Pick the torch that suits your most common use, not just the brightest option.

Are rechargeable torches worth it?

Rechargeable torches are worth considering if you use a torch regularly. They are convenient for camping, walking, work and everyday use, as long as you remember to charge them before you need them.

Are battery torches better for emergencies?

Battery torches can be useful for emergencies because spare batteries are easy to store and replace. Just check the batteries regularly so they have not expired or leaked in storage.

What brightness do I need for a torch?

The brightness you need depends on the task. Lower brightness is usually enough for close-up jobs and tent use, while a brighter torch is more useful for walking, outdoor work or seeing further ahead.

What is the difference between a torch and a lantern?

A torch gives a directed beam of light, making it good for walking or pointing at specific areas. A lantern spreads light more widely, making it better for tents, tables and shared campsite spaces.

Is a handheld torch better than a head torch?

A handheld torch is better when you want to aim a beam precisely. A head torch is better when you need both hands free. For camping and outdoor use, having both can be very practical.

Can torches be used in wet weather?

Some torches are designed to handle damp or wet conditions, but protection varies by model. Check the product details for water resistance before using a torch in rain or rough outdoor weather.

How do I make my torch battery last longer?

Use lower brightness settings when full power is not needed, switch the torch off between uses and charge it before longer trips. For battery torches, pack compatible spare batteries.

What torch should I take camping?

For camping, choose a torch that is easy to carry, bright enough for walking around the site and reliable enough for night-time use. A compact handheld torch works well alongside a lantern and head torch.

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