Solar-powered headlamp’s my top pick. Hands-free, charges right in the windowsill, and surprisingly bright even after cloudy days. I keep mine next to the kitchen, so I can grab it quick if the power blinks out while I’m cooking or checking on the freezer.
Used to rely on candles, but after one nearly got knocked over when my granddaughter visited, I don’t chance it anymore. The headlamp’s also great for checking fuses or for gardening in the evening if the outage drags on (happened more than once…). I picked up a second one just to keep by the front door for