All About Head Torches for Hiking (and choosing the right batteries!)

A head torch is an essential tool for any hike, offering reliable light while keeping your hands free for your furry friend, map, or trekking poles. With brightness levels often measured in lumens, a good head torch ensures you have enough illumination for your adventures. Whether you’re exploring rugged moorland, climbing your next peak, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll with your dog in the park, having a dependable light source is crucial once the sun goes down.

Early head torches were basic, often with just one setting and limited battery life. These early models relied on costly batteries, providing a low-powered beam that burned out all too quickly. It was a far cry from the reliable, long-lasting light sources we have today. No matter the season, a head torch is a must-have essential to keep securely tucked in your pack. This essential piece of safety gear is perfect for navigating tricky trails and can be a lifesaver when signalling for help from Mountain Rescue. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of a head torch and guide you in choosing the perfect one for your needs.

What do you use your head torch for?

RUNNING/TRAIL RUNNING

Whether you're running through city streets or navigating rugged trails, a head torch provides hands-free lighting to help you spot obstacles and stay on course.

HIKING

Even on day hikes, it’s a good idea to bring a head torch. If your hike extends into the evening, having a reliable light source ensures you're prepared for unexpected delays.

CAMPING/BACKPACKING TRIPS

Head torches are essential for camping, offering close-range illumination for tasks like setting up your tent, cooking, or reading, so you can move around your campsite comfortably after dark.  

When will you need to use a head torch?

WINTER

With shorter days and longer nights, a reliable head torch is crucial in winter. Opt for a model with higher Lumens and extended battery life to ensure it lasts throughout your activity.

SUMMER

While longer daylight hours reduce the need for extended use of a head torch in summer, it's still useful to have one for late-night adventures, unexpected delays, or evening activities that continue after dark.

Choosing the right batteries for your head torch

Selecting the right batteries for your head torch is essential for optimal performance. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Battery Type - Look for either alkaline or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries offer longer life and better efficiency, while alkaline batteries are more widely available.

2. Voltage Compatibility - Ensure the batteries match the voltage requirements of your head torch to avoid damage and ensure proper function.

3. Capacity - Check the mAh (milliamp hours) rating for rechargeable batteries. A higher rating means longer runtime, which is crucial for extended outings.

4. Weight - If you’re backpacking, consider the weight of the batteries. Lightweight options can help reduce your pack’s overall load.

5. Shelf Life - If you don’t use your head torch often, choose batteries with a longer shelf life to ensure they’re ready when you need them.

6. Environment - Opt for eco-friendly rechargeable options to minimise waste and reduce your environmental impact.

Regular batteries (AA or AAA)

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of using regular batteries for head torches.

Advantages

1. Availability - Regular batteries, like AA or AAA, are widely available  making them easy to replace when needed.

2. Cost-Effective - Initially, regular batteries can be less expensive than rechargeable options, especially for short-term use.

3. Simplicity - No need for charging or special maintenance; just replace them when they run out.

4. No Charging Required - Great for situations where you might not have access to a power source for charging.

Disadvantages

1. Shorter Lifespan Regular batteries typically have a shorter runtime compared to rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, leading to more frequent replacements.

2. Environmental Impact - Single-use batteries contribute to waste and can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly.

3. Cost Over Time - If you use your head torch frequently, the cost of replacing regular batteries can add up over time.

4. Performance - As regular batteries drain, their performance can diminish, leading to reduced brightness and shorter usage times.

By weighing these advantages and disadvantages, you can make a more informed decision about whether to use regular batteries for your head torch.

Rechargeable batteries (Lithium Ion)

More head torches than ever are now equipped with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries This is a great option if you have a power source or power bank on hand, and it’s certainly a greener alternative. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of using rechargeable lithium batteries for head torches.

Advantages

1. Longer Lifespan - Rechargeable lithium batteries generally have a longer lifespan compared to regular batteries, allowing for multiple uses before needing replacement.

2. Cost-Effective - Although they may have a higher upfront cost, over time, they can be more economical since you won’t need to buy replacements frequently.

3. Consistent Performance - They maintain a steady voltage throughout their discharge cycle, providing consistent brightness until they’re nearly depleted.

4. Eco-Friendly Rechargeable - batteries reduce waste since they can be reused many times, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.

5. Quick Charging - Many lithium batteries charge quickly, so you can get back to using your head torch in a shorter amount of time.

 Disadvantages

1. Initial Cost - The initial investment for rechargeable lithium batteries and a charger can be higher than buying regular batteries.

2. Charging Dependency - They require access to a power source for charging, which may not be available in remote locations.

3. Self-Discharge - Lithium batteries can lose their charge over time, even if not in use, so they may not be fully charged when you need them.

4. Temperature Sensitivity - Performance can be affected by extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, which might limit their effectiveness in certain environments.

5. Special Handling - They may require specific care and charging methods to ensure safety and longevity.

Understanding Lumens: Choosing The Right Brightness For Your Head Torch

Lumens are a way to measure the total amount of visible light emitted by a head torch, and they’re essential for understanding brightness. Essentially, the higher the lumen rating, the brighter the light, which is crucial for activities in dark environments like hiking, camping, or emergency situations. For instance, low lumens (10-100) are great for close-up tasks like reading or navigating a campsite, while moderate lumens (100-300) work well for walking on trails or general outdoor use. If you need powerful illumination for demanding activities like caving or search and rescue, then high lumens (300+) are your best bet.

However, it’s important to remember that while lumens indicate brightness, they don’t directly measure how far the light can reach. A head torch might have a high lumen count but a narrow beam, which can limit its effective range. Additionally, higher lumen outputs usually mean quicker battery drain, so it’s important to find a balance between brightness and battery life, especially for longer trips. Many head torches come with multiple brightness settings, allowing you to opt for lower lumens to extend battery life or crank up the brightness when you need more light. When choosing a head torch, think about your specific needs and the environments you’ll be in, as lumens are key to ensuring you have the right level of brightness for your activities.

Why A Head Torch Is Essential For Backpacking Hands-Free Safety And Convenience

Head torches are a must-have for backpacking for a few key reasons. First and foremost, they provide hands-free lighting, so you can easily navigate trails, set up camp, or cook after dark without having to juggle a flashlight. Their lightweight and compact design means they won’t weigh you down, giving you reliable illumination without taking up much space in your pack.

Safety is another big reason to carry a head torch. They help light your path and make you more visible to others, reducing the chances of accidents in the dark. Plus, many head torches come with adjustable brightness settings, letting you conserve battery life on longer trips or crank up the light when you need it most. All in all, a head torch is an essential tool that makes your backpacking adventures safer and more enjoyable, allowing you to explore the great outdoors, day or night.