Fortunately I had a couple of Maglite flashlights and a pile of batteries

Fortunately I had a couple of Maglite flashlights and a pile of batteries. Not nearly as good as whats currently available, but adequate.

I also had a couple of kerosene lanterns in case I also needed heat and toxic fumes.

Today there are better solutions.

In 2022 you can put together a fully long term sustainable, easy to use, all electric solution that will keep you in light for months if needed.

Advantages:

�No on going maintenance �No chemicals to store (like kerosene or white gas) �No heat (good in summer)

�No fumes or carbon monoxide �Sustainable (rechargeable batteries) �Small, light and compact �Robust �Easy to use (no preheating an oil lantern) �Convenient �Inexpensive to acquire, cheap to run �No risk of fire �Safe around children

The Basics Of Illumination

�Headlamp with red light mode (1 per person). �Table light (one per person). �Flashlight (one per person). �Central power station. �Extra batteries and charger. �Smaller power banks (optional).

Below are suggestions for a family of 5.

A headlamp is used for hands free task illumination.

The red light mode is very low power and will not take away your (or your families) night vision.

Fits in your pocket

Recommendation: Nitecore NU25

Price: $40 (one per family member)

A table light is used to light up a room where you are doing something thats not ideal to light with the headlamp.

You cant take a bath with the headlight on, for example.

Can also be used as a 18w powerbank.

You need batteries.

Recommendation: Nitecore LR60

Price: $45

A flashlight with a focused beam is used outdoors to see things farther than the headlamp can reach. Ideal for signalling and observing friends (or foes).

Recommendation: Convoy M21A + holster + defuser

Price: $60 (one per person)

Or, if you want an upgrade to a tactical light here is another flashlight instead.

This one includes all the accessories in one box and can be charged directly with the battery still in the light.

Recommendation: Nitecore P20IX Price: $135 (one per person)

A central power station holds massive amounts of energy. You can charge it from the wall if the power comes back intermittently, a generator or solar.

Recommendation: Nitecore NES1200

Price: $1200 (one per family)

Portable solar panels: Nitecore FSP100 (optional)

Price: $350

Extra batteries (table light & flashlights).

You need 27100 IMR lithium batteries. These are robust, FAR more power than AA batteries and have a low self discharge rate, keeping them fresh longer.

Recommendation: Samsung INR21700-50S 5000mAh - 35A

Price: $5.50 (4+ per person)

Charger for the batteries above.

Recommendation: Nitecore SC4

Price: $35 (1 per family)

You may also have some AA and AAA powered devices. Keep at least 2x as many batteries for them as you need.

One set to charge, one set to use.

�Any big brand name AA battery should be good. Ikea brand batteries are the best bang for your buck. �Get a 10x charger.

Buy now before you need them.

May your life be bathed in the light of the prepared ones.

(Please share if this was useful)

If you have nothing and a small budget, start by buying the headlights for each family member first.

Then buy the table lights, batteries and a charger.

Buy the big power station last.