Message Forums

Could anyone who has experience of both gas and rechargeable types of lanterns possibly give a few pros and cons on each type?

I will be camping from a van so weight/size doesn't really come into it. Just ease of use, amount of light given out (adjustable?), cost of both lantern and of the running costs.

Any info gratefully received.

We have one of each. Not used them yet, so will let you know how we get on.

We away this weekend.

Thanks very much for all replies.

No kids involved so this isn't a problem. Am leaning towards the gas one at the moment but do gas lanterns give off any fumes? I'm not good with fumy things in small enclosed spaces.

Seems like the Campinggaz 206 is the most popular? Any other makes of gas lantern recommendation?

Where do people get the cheapest replacement gas cartridges from - for both lanterns and stoves?

Thanks again in advance.

Nightsearcher lanterns are recharable and very good, see the review.  Gas are more economical but not wise with young children around.  Cheers  Ratty

We've got the Campingaz Lumostar. As I said we find it very good. Bought it 5 years ago, and never had a problem - just changed the mantle once.

The Lumostar uses the C230 or C470 canisters (think those are the correct numbers!) - these canisters are re-sealable so can be taken off for packing or if you wanted to use it for the stove etc. We have found the cheapest source of canisters to be Decathlon - cheaper than the camping shops by over a pound a cartridge in the case of the larger C470. 

My CampinGaz Bleuet has been very reliable for the 10 years I've had it.

It takes 206 cartridges which are not resealable but easy to get.

10 years ago they cost about £1.50 I think, got a load in France for about 80p each.

As well as CampinGaz there are cheaper makes of cartridge that work as well. Bought some last year for £1 each.

Nowadays they call it the 206 and they are about £15, think I paid about the same when I got mine so in real terms they are getting cheaper.

Cartridges for the 206 are £1.05 each at our local caravan dealers.

Jan: The Coleman rechargeable lantern comes complete with 12v lead as well as mains lead. So for longer holidays you just take the lantern out with you during the day and charge it up from the car.