BOISE -- A lot of headlamps are coming with red lights as one of the options on the light. I bought one on a whim at the checkout counter of the hardware store. You know, they put all that stuff up by the checkout and it lures you in.

I got an inexpensive Energizer headlamp just as a backup, but I find I am using it more than other headlamps for stumbling around camp when nature calls.

The first thing is you don't disturb others in camp with a bright light in the middle of the night.

The second thing is that it is a pleasant light and more comfortable on the eyes. At least that's what I found. I can negotiate fairly easy at night with the dimmer red light than with a blasting white light.

I have found headlamps with red lights for about as low as $13, but the Princeton Tec Remix Headlamp is $39.95 at REI.com. They also sell a version with a green light. See it at www.rei.com/product/ 830453/princeton-tec-remix-headlamp.