RICHARD E No it does not. It is a handy lantern for doing things inside a small tent but does not provide any useful light for outdoor open type activities. If you are looking for that kind of light source I strongly recommend a one or two mantle propane lantern.
Christopher S Thanks Richard! I had hoped to get away with a smaller light, but it looks like I will need more. Do you think the Coleman 8D Twin Spiral Camping Lantern would be a better choice?
RICHARD E Its possible, I don't have any personal experience with that lantern so I can't say for sure. I know that it would certainly be much closer to what you're looking for than the pack-away. The pack-away is just slightly bigger than a pack of cigarettes so it doesn't stand much chance. The 8D is bigger with a much larger power source and thus should be better suited to your needs. However, I seriously doubt there are any battery powered lanterns that will match a decent propane lantern. To me, the weight becomes an issue (since I do a lot of backpacking) and I would rather carry a can of propane that I can use for several different things than a battery lantern that weighs more and has only one use. IMHO
Christopher S Thanks for the detail and suggestion - I really appreciate it!