Big Agnes mtnGLO Lights: The Best Way to Light Up Your Tent and Campsite
Big Agnes mtnGLO Lights have become a permanent part of my backcountry setup, especially for my two-person Tiger Wall tent. Finding the right balance of ambient light in a tent can be tricky, but these LED strands provide just enough glow to be functional without being blinding. Whether I’m organizing gear at night or setting up for a specific shot, these lights are far more versatile than a standard headlamp hanging from a gear loft.
One of my favorite features is the flicker/blinking mode. It sounds simple, but it is incredibly useful for finding your tent again at night, especially if you are camped in a crowded area where every tent looks exactly the same.
Why the Big Agnes mtnGLO Lights are a Gear Essential
I specifically chose the white color for my set. While white isn’t always the best for preserving night vision, it is absolutely the best for photography. If you love a good night sky shot with a well-lit tent, the white mtnGLO lights provide the perfect internal glow for those long exposures. If you do prioritize night vision for star gazing, they also come in red (which is ideal for night vision) or a blue/green option.
Big Agnes mtnGLO Lights Review
Field-Tested Convenience: Dual Power Modes
The dual-power functionality has actually saved me a couple of times. You can run these on three AAA batteries, but they are also USB compatible.
On one trip, I realized I’d forgotten to change the batteries beforehand, and they had actually leaked inside the controller, meaning the battery power wasn’t working. Because they have the USB plug, I was able to just plug them into my power bank and had light all night. It’s a great fail-safe to have when you’re miles from the nearest store.
Key Features & Specs
- Versatile Design: The 100-inch strand is encased in lightweight nylon tubing. You can string it up using the included clips or keep it in the triangular case to use as a lantern on a camp table.
- Two Light Modes: Choose between full light for camp chores or a flicker mode for visibility.
- Dual Power: Compatible with any USB power source or 3 AAA batteries.
- Lightweight: Perfect for backpacking without adding unnecessary bulk to your pack.
Final Verdict: Ambient Light That Actually Works
The mtnGLO system is about more than just “vibes”; it’s a functional, durable lighting solution that makes camp life easier. From finding your tent in the dark to getting that perfect lit-up tent photo, these lights are worth the small amount of pack space.
