Best String Lights for Camping
String lights are a great way to add a cozy ambiance to your camper, tent or campsite. They pack up relatively small and the choices here are either USB or Solar powered, so they use very little power – perfect for camping. Whether you’re using a teardrop camper, small camper, or tent, the right lights can make a world of difference.
In this guide, we’ll review the best string lights for camping, considering durability, power source, brightness, and portability. Let’s find the perfect lighting solution for your next adventure!
Tips for Using String Lights While Camping
- Always check the weather rating of your string lights before use.
- Use carabiners or zip ties to secure lights around your tent or camper.
- Opt for solar-powered lights if camping in remote locations without power access.
- Choose warm LED lights to create a relaxing atmosphere without attracting too many bugs.
- Wrap lights around trees, poles, or awnings for a cozy and functional setup.
Best String Lights for Camping
1. Goal Zero Light a Life Mini
I have a 2005 Honda Element that I have turned into a camper van, and the Goal Zero Light a Life Mini are the string lights that I use in the van. I power them with a Goal Zero Power Station. I like these lights because they are high quality, and can turn on individually instead of needing to power the whole set. The Light a Life Mini’s have a normal or bright setting. You can string these together and they use about 1 watt per light. These lights typically come with a clouded white shade, however you can purchase a pack with multi color rubber shades, which is what I did here for the ambiance of the lighting.
Power Source: USB-powered – use about 1 watt per light
Features: Each Light has a Switch to turn On and Off individually
Why We Love It: The Goal Zero Light a Life Mini String Light Set is an ultra-versatile, high-quality camping light that can be used in multiple ways and configurations.
2. Biolite Site Light
The Biolite Site Lights are a set of 4 lights that store very small and are very lightweight. They come with 10 feet of cord and can be strung together with other Biolite sets to make a longer string of lights. They have a pin connector that will work with some Biolite products but not all. You will need to use the included USB adaptor for most power stations and to plug into the Biolite AlpenGlow lights. Shop all BioLite Lighting.
Power Source: Pin Connector – USB Adaptor Included
Features:The Site Lights only use about 2 watts of power, making them a great option for boondocking or back packing.
Why We Love It: Can be used with other Biolite products such as the Alpenglow Lantern
The Biolite Alpenglow lantern is a great addition to power this set – you can see my review here.
Bring the stars a little closer with this constellation of lights, designed for easy, instant setup. Containing four lights per string, the SiteLight String can light pathways, campsites, and tents with 150 lumens of ambient light. Set on 10 feet of cord and daisy-chainable, power it with BioLite Lanterns or through any USB power source with the included adapter.
- 4x LED string lights - 150 Lm total
- Daisy chain output - connect additional string lights
- Cord stabilizers for accurate overhead focused light
- Weight: 2.5oz.
The AlpenGlow 500 rechargeable lantern delivers a dusk or daylight feel inspired by nature. Featuring high-efficiency ChromaReal LED technology, accurately render the colors in your environment with the glow of warm natural light. Feeling more aurora borealis? Shake the lantern for an instant rotation of mesmerizing color. Offering both ambient and task-based light, AlpenGlow 500 is ready for the backyard or the backcountry.
3. Luminoodle LED Light Rope
The Luminoodle LED Light Rope is 10 feet long and is an ultra-versatile, high-quality camping light that can be hung in multiple ways. using the built in magnets, noodle ties or use the included pouch for a diffuser. USB Battery Pack is included.
Power Source: USB-powered
Features: Waterproof, flexible, and includes a storage bag that doubles as a lantern
Why We Love It: It’s bright yet soft, making it perfect for teardrop campers, awnings, or inside a tent.
with USB Power Bank - 10 ft USB Waterproof String Lights - Rechargeable LED Lantern Kit
4. MPower Luci Solar Powered String Lights
Anyone that camps probably knows about Luci Solar Lights, and MPower has given us a great option for string lights as well! The lights are high quality, and will work in or out of the camper. They can be powered via solar or USB. They have a mode that changes color, and also a flashlight on the outside of the light pack. The Luci Solar string lights are easily rolled up and stored inside the unit and the solar panel is built right in. These are the perfect boondocking string lights. The 2000 mAh Lithium-ion battery inside can also charge your phone (or other string lights) in a pinch, making these one of the best string lights for camping!
Power Source: Solar & USB rechargeable
Features: 18-foot cord, 6 color LEDs, collapsible design
Why We Love It: These solar-powered lights are ideal for off-grid camping. The long cord allows you to wrap them around trees, tent poles, or campers. Plus, the built-in rechargeable battery lasts up to 15 hours!
- BUILT-IN RECHARGEABLE 2000 mAh LITHIUM-ION BATTERY. With 6 colors of ambiance across an 18 ft cord, mobile charging, and lasting up to 15 hours on a single charge, Luci Color String Lights are perfect for illuminating your space.
- BRIGHT AND LONG LASTING. Emitting 6 colors (violet, turquoise, green, orange, pink, white) via 20 multi-color LEDs across an 18 ft cord, this light provides up to 15 hours of light on a single charge, so you can keep your day going long into the night.
- COMPLETELY SOLAR & NEVER NEEDS BATTERIES. Luci's built-in high efficiency solar panel means that no batteries are needed - ever. Recharge fully via solar or quick charge via USB (16 hours / 4 hours).
5. Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights
If you are looking for that classic patio style string light for your campsite – look no further than the Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights. They come in both 27 ft and 48 ft lengths to brighten up the mood at your site.
Power Source: Solar-powered
Features: Heavy-duty, commercial-grade, waterproof
Why We Love It: These durable, weatherproof lights are built for all conditions. The soft, warm glow adds a relaxing touch to your campsite, and the solar panel eliminates the need for external power sources.
27 ft Commercial Grade Waterproof Patio Lights, 12 Edison Bulbs, Shatterproof LED String Lights for Outside, Porch - 1W Soft White - other lengths available.
Conclusion:
The right string lights can completely transform your camping experience. Whether you’re camping in a teardrop trailer, small camper, or tent, these lighting options provide both function and charm. From solar-powered lights to USB options, there’s a perfect solution for every camper.
