When buying a flashlight for a multi-day bushwalk, it's important to prioritise reliability, efficiency and safety.
Here are five key things to look for:
Brightness (Lumens)
Choose a torch with adjustable brightness levels. A range of 100–300 lumens is usually sufficient for general hiking, but for night hiking or navigating tricky terrain, 500+ lumens may be better.
Battery Life and Type
Look for long-lasting battery life—especially for multi-day hikes. Rechargeable batteries are eco-friendly, but for extended trips, torches that accept both rechargeable and disposable batteries (dual power) offer flexibility.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Ensure it’s water-resistant (look for an IPX rating, like IPX4 or higher) and built to withstand drops and rough conditions—preferably with an aluminum or rugged plastic body.
Size and Weight
Lightweight and compact torches are best for hiking to minimize pack weight. However, don’t sacrifice durability or performance for size.
Beam Distance and Mode Options
A torch with both flood and focused beam modes is ideal. Additional features like red light mode (to preserve night vision and read maps at night) or strobe (for emergencies) can be useful.