The LuminAID Packlite SPECTRA is an inflatable lightweight, waterproof, colour-changing, solar powered lamp. It is portable because it deflates for easy carrying and inflates like a balloon (you blow into it) when you want to use it. Like magic, the lantern inflates into a square shape. The light also changes from bright white to seven different colours when you press a small button.
It is perfect for hanging up in a tent or on a tree at your camping spot. You could even attach it to your rucksack if you are walking at night.
The solid white LED mode is ideal for reading or lighting up your tent at night, while the multi-colour mode sees it gradually go through each of the colours in succession.
The solar battery power is enough for up to 12 hours of lighting after one day’s charge. To fully charge it takes around seven hours of direct sunlight. It will also charge in overcast conditions although this will take longer.
I gave it to my friend’s Boy 2 to test. Boy 2 is an enthusiastic Scout and does a lot of camping (using a hammock). He’s a teenager so it is not always easy to get more than a couple of words from him but he seemed taken by this product. He said: “It’s pretty good and useful. It creates a nice ambience for a camp-site.”
He took some nice photos of the lantern.
LuminAID Packlite SPECTRA costs £19.99 at Planet Camping.