If you’ve ever experienced a power outage or had a flat tire in the middle of nowhere, you understand how important emergency light sticks can be.
These small accessories can provide a quick and economical illumination in the event of such emergencies. However, getting the perfect glow stick that will fit your emergency needs is not an easy task.
In this guide, we will review the top ten best emergency light sticks and some of the factors you need to consider when selecting them. Read on.
Top 10 Best Emergency Light Sticks
1. Recon Medical Tactical BreakLights
If you are looking for economical and affordable light sticks, to add to your recreational pack or emergency kit, these 6 inch light sticks by Recon medical are among the best light sticks available in the market.
Each of the sticks is individually wrapped in a foil and can last up to 12 hours according to the manufacturer. The green glow makes them glow brighter and last longer. They are also easy to use and carry along, as the hook on top helps you to hang them where they are needed.
They are made from non-toxic material and are thus safe to use. You are assured of a 24-month guarantee; only if you buy it from Reckon Medical LLC, any other seller will not be able to offer you a warranty card.
Pros
- Up to 12 hours of lighting
- Non-toxic and safe to use
- Weather proof
- Ultra bright light sticks for emergencies
- 24 months guarantee
Cons
- The glow starts to fade after the eighth hour
2. Cyalume SnapLight Green Glow Sticks
These green industrial grade light sticks from Cyalume offer up to 12 hours lighting. The 6-inch long sticks are made from low-density polyethylene and can thus float on water.
They are therefore suitable for water sports such as fish hunting. Snap light green glow is available in a 20 pack. The sticks can work in both high and low temperatures but are less effective in colder temperatures.
The green glows snap light from Cyalume comes with a five-year warranty from the date of manufacture.
Pros
- 12 hours of illumination
- Has a hook for hanging the light
- Materials used are recyclable
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Not suitable for colder temperatures
3. Be Ready Green Glow Sticks
Are you looking for some emergency stylish emergency green glow sticks? Be Ready Green Glow sticks are quality, small, and lightweight sticks that provide dependable illumination for more than 12 hours.
They are a suitable tactical tool for roadside assistance during a hike, concert, camping, and any other outdoor activities. Each stick comes with a 6-inch length, and a 12 pack unlike the other brands that pack in tens.
Be Ready Green Glow Sticks are waterproof and can be used in extreme weather conditions. Also, you can store the sticks up to 5 years.
Pros
- Contains 12 emergency glow sticks
- The shelf life of up to 5 years
- Can be used in any weather conditions
- Small and lightweight
- They are non-toxic
Cons
- Does not provide enough light for reading at average room temperatures
4. Cyalume Combat Light Shield Device
Looking for premium product glow sticks? The Cyalume military-grade combat is made in a conventional style suitable for you.
The rotating window features can help you open and close the light whenever needed. It is crucial, especially for military men who need not disclose their location.
You can also attach it temporarily to your gear or asset as it comes with a sturdy plastic clip. Besides, it comes in dark green color that matches most tactical gear and highly resistant to corrosion.
Pros
- Sticks are made in the USA under strict quality guidelines
- More than 12 hours extended lighting
- The rotating window for light adjustments
- Sturdy plastic clip for temporary adjustment
- The dark green color is resistant to corrosion
Cons
- Pocket clip does not lock in securely
5. Glow Sticks Jumbo Light Sticks
This light sticks from Glow With Us are some of the best light sticks you will ever get. The brightly purple-colored glow sticks are 12 inches in length and are made from a non-toxic, non-flammable agent.
The materials used to make this sticks are chosen among the best and high quality in the market and have a guaranteed shelf life of 3 years.
Each stick has a light glow of 14-16 hours. Being the most significant and brightest glow sticks in the market, it glows brightly, making it ideal for concerts, party decor, Halloween, and nighttime activities.
Pros
- Extremely bright and long-lasting
- Great for parties
- Vibrant colors
- 3-year shelf life
- Ideal for kids can be used as an alternative to candy for Halloween
Cons
- Although it can glow for over 14 hours, the lights become dimmer towards the end
6. MediTac Green Glow Stick
The MediTac Green Glow packs up to 24 glow sticks. Each glow stick has a length of 6 inches, and the chemical agents can glow for 12 hours.
MediTac green glow stick provides instant illumination by just a simple snap. You bend the stick gently until you hear a snap, then watch as it illuminates.
It is ideal for working in dim corners, hiking, or camping activities. Each stick is individually wrapped and is perfect for emergency packs.
It also features a hook and a loop that comes with a 24-inch string. The string can be used to suspend the light stick anywhere. It is ideal for workshops and garages.
Pros
- Easy to carry
- 12 hours of light
- Each stick is individually wrapped to protect against accidental activation or punctures
- Compact and durable
- Suitable for working in workshops and garages during power outages
Cons
- It begins to dim after the 8th hour
7. Cyalume Mini Chemical Light Sticks
If you are looking for high quality glow sticks, then the Cyalume Mini Chemical light sticks is another of our recommended choices.
These long-lasting mini ChemLight military-grade chemical light sticks provide 360 degrees illumination and intense light output for up to 4 hours. They are the official chemical light stick of the US military.
These military-grade chemical light sticks are small and compact and can fit anywhere. They can easily be stored in first aid kits, emergency go bag or in your car.
They are also bright and highly dependable. They are waterproof and made from non-toxic and non-flammable materials hence safe to use.
Pros
- 4-year guarantee from the manufacturer
- Small, compact and easy to carry
- Made from the US
- Water proof
- Non-toxic glow sticks
Cons
- Although they provide intense light, it does not last long
8. Cyalume SnapLight White Light Sticks
Cyalume SnapLight white light sticks are high quality glow sticks that are ideal for lighting vast areas. They are high-grade glow sticks with long-lasting formulations that can last up to 12 hours.
The industrial-grade stick construction protects the internal components making them a bit different from the other brands in the market.
They are best used in outdoor activities that require loads of lighting. They are made from waterproof materials that are non-toxic hence safe to use. They come in a large pack of 30 sticks.
Pros
- The guaranteed shelf life of 5 years
- Non-toxic glow sticks
- Great for lighting vast areas
- Come in a large pack
- Individually foiled wraps for secure storage
Cons
- The sticks are not re-usable
9. Wealers Pack Light Sticks
The Wealers light sticks are glow sticks that are 6 inches in length and have an incredibly bright glow that can last up to 24 hours.
The lights sticks are industrial grade and easy to use. All you have to do is snap the stick and shake it before use. They are also 100% waterproof, thus suitable for underwater activities such as fishing and scuba diving.
Each light stick is filled with non-flammable and non-toxic materials that can last for several hours. They come in different colors, and various colors have the separate time it takes to glow.
Pros
- They are extremely bright
- They are safe to use
- They are non-flammable
- Great for outdoor activities
- They have a hook and a string that you can use to hang the light stick
Cons
- It has not been reviewed as much
10. Cyalume Green Glow Sticks
If you need long-lasting emergency sticks, then Cyalume green glow stick is the way to go. It is an ideal package as it can run for up to 12 hours nonstop each at a time.
The sticks are individually foil wrapped in a ten pack. The 6-inch sticks are safe and durable to use. They are made from high quality plastic material that is non-toxic and non-flammable.
They are also waterproof, hence the best option during a night out fish hunting or camping.
Pros
- Offers 12 hours of bright light
- Waterproof
- Each stick is wrapped individually for secure storage
Cons
- They are affected by high temperatures.
Buyers Guide
How to Select the Best Emergency Light Sticks
There are very many different types of glow sticks, and making that decision on which one to buy might be a bit challenging. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind.
Duration
The quality of a glow stick is determined mostly by how long it takes to glow. Some products may produce light for up to 12 hours or more. As time progresses, the amount of light may significantly reduce. It is crucial to have as many glow sticks as possible on standby, in case you need more hours. Most are said to glow up to 12 hours, but after the 8th hour, the light seems to be dimmer.
Length
Consider the length of the stick. It is vital to ensure that the length of the glow stick is appropriate and that it can be held by hand. The longer the stick, the more the light it emits.
Shelf life
Glow sticks are commonly referred to as emergency light sticks. They are not used daily, and hence the more prolonged the expiry dates, the more they are useful. This helps in making sure you will not be forced to buy new sticks often. Most have a shelf life of 2 years, but a majority in the market today has a guaranteed shelf life of up to 5 years.
Color
Color is one of the primary key factors you should consider. Most glow sticks come in green, yellow and orange colors. However, there are a few that are white, red, and blue. Yellow, green, and orange produce a lot of light and are best for emergencies. The colors are often chosen when involved in outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. They can be used as a signal in case of an emergency. In case you need glow sticks as decor in a night out party, some brands are sold in assorted colors.
Frequently Asked Questions about Glow Sticks
Do emergency light sticks produce enough light for reading?
Yes, the amount of light produced by the glow sticks is enough for one to go through a phone book and get emergency numbers in case of an emergency while out hiking or camping.
Will the light stick be lit when wet?
Most glow sticks are made from waterproof materials and thus will continue glowing even when wet. This makes them suitable for water activities such as kayaking and scuba diving.
Do they degrade if kept opened in extreme temperatures?
They may be less effective and less reliable compared to the ones that were not left open and were stored properly.
Does the color of the stick matter?
Yes, depending on the use. Some colors like blue fade faster compared to green or yellow. It is essential to consider what your requirements are before choosing your color. Some colors are not reliable for emergencies.
Are they durable?
Glow sticks can last up to 2 years, with some having a shelf life of up to 5 years. Yes, they are durable and are easy to store in case of an emergency.
Wrapping Up
With emergency Light sticks you will always be prepared in case of power outages or emergencies. They are easy to use, you are only required to shake them, and the chemicals will react, producing a bright glow. With the use of a glow stick, you do not need an additional source of power. All you need is to get a pack that can last you for as long as you need them.