Don’t leave home without your headlamp

Not too long ago headlights were big two-pound blocks that hung from your helmet or your hat and were generally only used by spelunkers or dorks. That certainly isn’t the case anymore. Today’s headlights (now officially called “headlamps”) are comfortable, lightweight, put out an enormous amount of light and look pretty cool. They’re also darn useful and whether you’re taking a guided tour of France or bushwacking through Central America, no traveler should leave home without one in their bag.

For weekend warriors, general use and cheapskates:

The Black Diamond Gizmo Headlamp ($19.99) features three very bright LEDs in a titlable housing with brightness settings and a strobe. It weights only 2.8 ounces and takes 2 AAA batteries for a functional burn time of up to 36 hours.

For serious adventure racers with sponsorship money to spend or people who just want to have the most expensive gear they can find:

The Petzle Ultra Headlamp ($430.00) has a maximum output of 350 lumens and is supposed designed for serious adventure racers. The six powerful LEDs can shine a powerful beam of light up to 120 meters. It is powered by a rechargeable battery pack that straps to the back of the head and is good for up to 16 hours on low setting.

For hardcore adventurers and polar bears:

The Princeton Tec Apex Extreme LED Headlamp ($99.95) is specifically built to withstand extreme weather and ice cold temperatures. The battery pack takes 8 AA batteries and can be stuffed in your pack or your pants to take the weight off of your head. There are a number of lighting configurations and settings to make just the light you need when you’re trying to find your way out of an ice cave.

For versatile use or artsy types who like a bunch of color:

The Petzl Tactikka XP Adapt LED Headlight ($64.95) does a lot of extra stuff and is partly like having a disco ball to tot around. The red, green and blue filters allow you to see in the dark without flaring out your eyes and a new cover mechanism allows you to use a few filters. The lamp can also be taken from the headstrap and mounted to bags, trees, beds or anywhere else you need the light.

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