we use tubes but plug them into the car....BUT we have two batteries so it doesn't matter if we flatten one!
A head torch is invaluable for late night toilet trips! We also have a lantern that sits on the table.
We will hopefully have electric hook ups in August in Dorset (only because we know that field wont flood too much IF it does rain!), so maybe get a hookup cable (expensive outlay tho)
LED's are far greener, last alot longer, are a lot brighter and are the way forward. However the light they give is very white and can be a little disturbing. As yet soft white or yellow LED lights are not available.
i have both, just invested in the led ones before went camping last weekend never had to use my laterns as the leds were very bright and also when hung at top of tent a bonus i never hit my head on them as they dont take up much room unlike my lanterns which hang down alot further.