What are the advantages of a paraffin lamp over a torch (flashlight)?

Question

I always prefer a paraffin lamp to a torch while camping, but that's just because I'm old-fashioned. But I understand there are advantages - what are they?

Answer 1

Maybe because you can adjust the lighting level to conserve energy.  

Answer 2

From experience, LED head lamps are the way to go unless you have a group of people you're with and are trying to light up a picnic table.

The battery operated, flurescent lights are great for tables - less stinky, wasteful, environmental, etc.

Answer 3

A torchs light is constant. With a parrafin light you can adjust the gas level and the light level (by manipulating the strength of the gas).

Answer 4

Torch batteries will run down quickly on continuous usage whereas the lamp will keep going for hours on one fill. A lot better for reading in bed. It also give a much better spread of light though not too bright. I prefer to use the gas type of camping light. It gives a brighter light and will last a long time on each cannister.

Answer 5

I suspect none. I carry a small LED thumb light and rarely use even that. If one turns off the flashlights and lamps and actually goes outside at night one quickly realizes that it's entirely possible to see at night, enough to get by, and the stars, my god, the magnificent stars!

Answer 6

It might be cheaper than a battery operated light or torch, but that's the only advantage I can think of.  I'd say there is more disadvantages than advantages.  For camping purposes, I'd rather go for a battery lamp (those fluorescent light ones) with a rechargeable battery that you hang on a hook from the top of the tent.  Much more safer and convenient.

  

Answer 7

They're just a d**n site cooler, you can pretend your Scott of the Antarctic with a paraffin lamp....even if your just in a campsite in Wales.