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Goal Zero Crush Light
#3 — Best Packable

Goal Zero Crush Light Review (2026)

2.6oz, collapses flat, $30 -- the backpacking lantern that fits in a pants pocket

★★★★★
8.6/10
Reviewed by William • Updated May 2026 $30

The Goal Zero Crush Light solves the backpacking lantern problem: you want ambient light but cannot justify 4 to 5oz in an ultralight pack. The Crush collapses to 0.5 inches tall and weighs 2.6oz. Expanded, it provides 150 lumens -- enough for cooking, reading, and navigating gear at night. At $30, it is the obvious answer for backpackers who want a lantern option.

Check current price →
$30 retail
TrailCraft Score

What Works

  • 2.6oz -- lightest lantern tested
  • Collapses to 0.5 inches -- fits in any pocket
  • $30 -- most affordable quality option
  • USB rechargeable
  • Integrated hook for tent ridgeline or tree hanging

Limitations

  • 150 lumens max -- less bright than Moji R+ or Alpenglow
  • Small battery, 5-hour max runtime
  • Collapsing mechanism can be stiff in cold temperatures

At a Glance

Lumens150 max
BatteryUSB rechargeable, 1000mAh
Runtime2hr high to 5hr low
Weight2.6oz / 74g
Collapsed Height0.5 inches
Full Height3 inches
Water RatingIPX6

Score Breakdown

Packability
10.0
Weight
9.8
Value for Money
9.4
Brightness
7.5
Runtime
7.6

What Sets It Apart

Well suited as a backpacking lantern for AT-style overnight trips. Collapses to a chest pocket and weighs nothing in context of a loaded pack. The 150 lumens is adequate for single-tent cooking and reading. Hung from the ridgeline of a single-wall shelter, it lights the interior without waking a tent partner.

2.6oz, collapses to nothing, $30 -- the lantern for ultralight backpackers who still want light

Who This Is For

The Goal Zero Crush Light is right for: ultralight backpackers who want ambient light without weight, solo campers who need tent interior lighting, and anyone wondering why camp lanterns need to be so heavy.

Note: Prices are current as of May 2026. Some links are affiliate links.

See the full comparison

All options in this category ranked side by side.

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Common Questions

How long does the battery last?
5 hours on lowest setting, 2 hours at 150 lumens max. For tent interior use at low brightness: 4 to 5 hours per charge. Charge before each trip.