Helping campers since 2011
Camping Candle Lantern
A camping candle lantern is the perfect camping light to use in a tent. It has other uses too!
I've been a fan of the UCO camping candle lantern for years.
There's nothing like being in a tent, warm and cozy in the warm flickering glow of a candle - especially if the wind is howling outside!
What is a camping candle lantern?
A camping candle lantern consists of a glass chimney tucked into an aluminum or brass base.
A candle sits in the base. The chimney is pulled up for use and pushed down for storage and transport.
Models
UCO camping candle lanterns come in three sizes:
Click on the images for more information and the best price!
A standard one-candle model
A mini model that burns a tealight
The "Candlelier" that burns up to three candles at once
How to use a camping candle lantern
- Slide the chimney up out of the base.
- Unscrew the base.
- Insert a candle in the base.
- Light the candle.
- Insert the base in the chimney and screw it in securely.
You can use the attached stainless steel handle to hang the lantern from a loop on your tent ceiling.
The flame is enclosed safely and is shielded from the wind.
As the candle burns, the spring loaded base keeps the candle flame at a constant height.
What is so great about candle lanterns for camping?
They really are wonderful! Here's why:
They can be safely used in a tent
As you know, you should never have an open flame inside a tent.
A properly used UCO lantern can be used in a tent.
They always work
Candle lanterns are simple to use.
Unlike most other camping lights, they don't have parts that break or batteries that die.
As long as you have matches and spare candles with you, you can have unlimited light.
They can help to keep you warm
A candle lantern gives off enough heat to actually warm a small tent on a cool night!
Using a camping candle lantern will help to reduce condensation in a tent, too.
They are small and light
These are ideal backpacking lanterns.
The aluminium model weighs just 7.5oz/210 g.
Tips
You need special candles
You can't use just any candle in these lanterns. You have to purchase UCO candles.
The candles are fairly economical.
Each burns for about 9 hours. CLICK HERE TO BUY!
You can even get beeswax candles or citronella candles!
Be careful!
These units get hot!
Never touch the heat shield (the round metal top) - even after you have blown out the candle.
It stays hot for quite a while - hot enough to burn your skin.
I'm speaking from experience here. It really hurts!
Teach your children never to touch that piece of metal.
Keep the unit upright
When the candle is burning, be sure to keep the unit straight.
If you tilt it, the wax will spill.
It won't hurt anything, but the wax will splash on the inside of the glass chimney, making a mess.
Bring a flashlight or headlamp
A candle lantern is almost bright enough to read by - but not quite!
I prefer to use a headlamp for reading, and a candle lantern for playing cards and getting ready for bed.
You can use your candle lantern at home too!
When you get home from camping, you might want to use your candle lanterns on your patio.
They make great decorative outdoor hanging lanterns!
Accessories
There are lots of optional accessories for the candle lantern:
A case
A Neoprene case case will protect the chimney from scratches. This is a good idea when you are stuffing the candle lantern into a backpack.
Reflectors
You might want to buy a top reflector that focuses the light downwards and a side reflector that focuses light horizontally. Each of these will increase the light put out by your lantern.
A repair kit
I've had my candle lantern for more than 15 years and it has never needed repair.
If it ever does, though, I'll buy the Repair and Refurbishment Kit and be able to replace virtually any part.
The bottom line
Candle lanterns are effective, economical and practical. I recommend them for all tent campers, but especially for backpackers.
Now that you know whether a camping candle lantern is for you, read about the other types of camping lights.
I have lots of practical ideas about planning your next camping trip! Visit The Camping Family home page to get started.
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