Headlamp: which one to choose
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A headlamp keeps your hands free to cook, treat wounds or go down stairs in the dark. It's the first thing you use in a blackout.
What to look for
- Batteries or rechargeable: AAA ones can be replaced from any shop; rechargeables need power or a power bank.
- Red light: it doesn't dazzle and preserves your night vision.
- Over 300 lumens is enough for home; more is for the outdoors.
- Water resistance (IPX4 or higher) to use it in the rain.
Our picks
- Petzl Tikkina, headlampFor the go bag: battery-powered, light and from a benchmark brand. A benchmark brand, light, and it runs on AAA batteries: it doesn't depend on charging.
- Lepro, 2 rechargeable headlampsFor home: two rechargeables for the price of one. Two headlamps for the price of one, with more than 20,000 reviews.
- Varta Indestructible F20 Pro, flashlightA handheld flashlight that withstands knocks and water, with AA batteries. Withstands knocks and water (IP67); runs on AA batteries.
Tip: Use the same battery size (AA or AAA) in all your emergency devices: that way your spare batteries work for everything.
Products reviewed on November 15, 2026.