Headlamp

A bright, hands-free light with a red mode that keeps your night vision and doesn't wake others.

Brightness: up to about 300 lumens
Modes: High, low, red light, flashing
Power: Rechargeable via USB, some models also take AAA batteries
Water resistance: Splash-resistant (typically IPX4)
Shelf life: Many years. Recharge every 3–6 months, as batteries lose charge in storage.

Siarhei Besarab, CC BY-SA 4.0 · Photo credits

A power cut at night makes simple things hard. You need to find the stairs, cook, give first aid or pack a bag. A headlamp puts light wherever you look and leaves both hands free.

The red light mode is useful in shelters and shared rooms. Red light doesn’t ruin your night vision and is less disturbing to others, so people can rest while you move around.

Low mode is bright enough for most tasks and can run for many hours on one charge. Save high mode for when you need to see far.

Why it’s in the kit

Phones make poor torches. They drain their battery, which you may need to stay in contact. Candles are a fire risk. A headlamp is safe, light and efficient, and it is the light you’ll reach for most often.

Storage & maintenance

Store it charged, in a dry place. Recharge it every few months and after each use. If your model takes AAA batteries, keep a spare set in the kit and remove batteries for long storage to avoid leaks.

How to use it

Charge it fully
Charge the lamp by USB before you put it in the kit, and again every few months.
Adjust the strap
Put it on your head and adjust the strap so it sits firmly without pressing.
Choose the mode
Use low light for most tasks. It lasts much longer than high mode.
Use red light at night
Switch to red light in shelters and while others sleep. It keeps your eyes adjusted to the dark.
Tilt the beam
Point the lamp downwards when talking to people, so you don't dazzle them.