Sometimes age-old problems can be solved by modern solutions- even if they are draped in the trappings of nostalgia.
The Barebones Rechargeable Lantern looks deceivingly similar to the classic Coleman kerosene lantern you remember. It retains the shape, durability, and utility. However, this particular product does away with the necessity for liquid petroleum. Instead, this camp tool just needs a handy USB port.
Barebones Living has provided a 21st century alternative to the messy an flammable classic. On the underside of the lantern there is a short USB charging cable that seats back into a channel when not extended. Instead of wicks and pumping to pressurize a gas, one simply need to plug this lantern in before you wish to use it. A few hours on a power-source can provide up to 4 hours of 325 lumens. An adjustable knob allows you to dictate how much light is put out, and a cage around the bulb and refracting plastic protects it from accidents.
I purchased this lantern on a whim when I needed something for week in Yellowstone. Normally a traditionalist when it comes to outdoor gear, I found that this particular item worked nicely when my tent wasn’t far from my car (and the access to recharge it if necessary). Unlike a kerosene lantern, this one can be taken places where the danger of a fire is catastrophic- like your tent. It doesn’t heat up to any significant degree nor produce an incessant hissing from combustion. Overall, this is something I recommend, especially if you are just car-camping or need a lap for your cabin.
So what are the negatives? While I can’t say, I can only surmise that at some point it runs out of energy. Or perhaps it’s not as bright as you please. But I didn’t personally experience this. If anything, it’s the pricetag: Retail is anything between $50 to $60 American dollars. As far as investments go, that’s a small sacrifice when factoring in the costs of fuel, etc. for a kerosene lantern.
This product can be found sold a the following link:
Of Wild Places 