I totally agree that a light bright enough for night hiking is essential. I honestly don't know how we used to get around with the ancient D-battery behemoths that pushed out maybe 10 lumens. I've been happy with a max of 350-500 for the occasional WHATWASTHAT!?

I would also recommend a light that has some weather resistance. If an emergency were to push you out into a rainy night, you will want a light you can count on.