Flashlights and other portable lights are essential emergency gear. Like first aid kits and portable water filtration, they are among the most important items to have when preparing for weather emergencies like bad storms or earthquakes. Portable lights are also highly convenient for outdoor adventures, like camping, backpacking or night hikes.

The big benefit of using a headlamp over a flashlight is that a headlamp frees up your hands for other tasks. However, if you live in a buggy area and are using your light outside, you may find moths and other nighttime insects attracted to your face when you wear a light on your forehead. For that reason, some people prefer traditional flashlights. A flashlight also gives you the ability to shine the light beam in various directions and at angles not possible when the light is attached to your head. So, choosing between a headlamp and flashlight comes down to how you want to use it.

Whether you are gathering gear for a camping trip or preparing for a disaster, you will want to think about how you will keep your portable light powered. If it uses batteries, have spares on hand. If it plugs in to charge, invest in a backup generator or power bank, which can also charge other essential electronics.

When considering the best headlamp or flashlight, start by considering the brightness you might need. Lumens are the measurement used to express brightness, and modern portable lights, like LED flashlights and headlamps, can be surprisingly powerful. You may want a light with multiple brightness settings for different uses. Additionally, if you need to preserve your night vision when using your light, choose a headlamp or flashlight with a red light setting. Preserving night vision may be essential for activities such as sailing or boating at night.

If you will be using your device outdoors, such as on a camping trip, consider choosing a water-resistant flashlight or headlamp for greater durability against the elements. For rechargeable lights, consider bringing solar panels to keep power banks charged. You can use that energy for your lights, phone and handheld GPS. You can also use rechargeable batteries for many portable lights.

Store your lights in easy-to-find places. Keep in mind that a light may be the first thing you need during a nighttime disaster. For that reason, it is always good to have a flashlight or other portable light right next to your bed.