Torches

There are many types of torches that are available but for expedition there are number of considerations that should be considered; size, weight, accessilbilty, functionality and safety.

Maglites

I have seen maglites on DofE walks not the little pen torches the size D cell ones that need six batteries and are the length of a rucksack, not practical not useful and unnessary weight to add to an already heavy pack. However the pocket torches you can get from maglite that take two AA batteries are possibly a better alternative but stil leaves you with one hand holding a torch whilst cooking or putting a tent up.

However because there robust and if going for the smaller sized one certainly worth the purchase but should be considered as a fall back option or maybe just for helping finding things in bottom of rucksack when dark.

Oversized Torches

Fortunately I havent seen anyone using these torches before on DofE but have seen them used within Scouting. For DofE simply not practical. 2 Million candles for 2 minutes is not going to suffeicent to last your DofE expedition or a camp.

Not suitable for DofE or Explorers

Windup Torches

As Explorer Scouts we should be thinking of the environment but these torches are just not capable of operating long enough to safely operate. Imagine winding this up every 5 minutes whilst cooking, handling hot pans and then handling boiling water.
These torches are just not practical and for those at 3am that need the loo being woken up by the noise of wuring noise in the first place is disturbing enough to then know its someone on a toilet run in the dark because there wind up torch cant hold a charge for more then 10 seconds is just annoying.

Not suitable for DofE!

Head Torch

Head torches are probably the best option for DofE or camping in general they can last years durability wise, small and compact lightweight and where ever you look there is light great for cooking great for in the tent. The new LED torches provide more then sufficent light and can last a year with almost regular use before changing batteries.

Recommended for DofE and scouting!