This one often gets overlooked. Like any other piece of outdoor gear, your camping lantern is going to be exposed to the elements at some point. Some lantern manufacturers list their products as either “waterproof” or “water-resistant” but don’t actually support those claims with any hard data. They'll still work on cloudy days or in areas with indirect light, but you might notice that they aren't quite as bright or long-lasting. "It is a fact that energy storage is much better if it's under direct sunlight, but solar lights can still work with rain or even snow," Jameson says.

Outdoor lights work best when they have access to direct sunlight to charge for multiple hours during the day, which is how the manufacturers calculate battery life and runtime.And what about gas lanterns, you ask? Well, truth be told, the benefit of a gas lantern nowadays is more in the experience itself than anything else. They’re the vinyl records of the camping lantern world. Sure, electric models are smaller, lighter, more convenient, etc., but nothing quite compares to the warmth of a real flame or the experience of sitting around one of these classic beauties. It’s also worth mentioning that a good gas-powered lantern is the kind of thing you’ll hand down to future generations, even if it just goes up on the mantle as a decorative antique. Are All Lanterns Waterproof?

Why You Should Get It: These solar lights are perfect for those looking for a soft, ambient outdoor lighting option. They're also available in seven colors. Some of the solar lights on this list have small solar panels on each individual light, while others have a single external solar panel that powers the entire set of lights. You might prefer the latter if you want to use solar lights under a porch or covered patio; you'll be able to give the solar panel direct sunlight while keeping the lights where you want them. Why You Should Get It: These in-ground lights sit flush with your terrain for a minimalist look that is barely noticeable during daytime.We found the light to be a warm, orange hue that's not bright enough for reading, but they do give off plenty of light to illuminate a walkway. Plus, the lights held up to our golf ball, water, and freezer tests, making us confident that they'll thrive in a variety of weather conditions.