looking for a recommendation for a home /camping light for $25-30?

Hi and sorry to ask but I can't really find an existing thread for this.

I used to have a really nice sure fire variable output light, but one of my kids seems to have borrowed it (those dads of tweenagers) know my pain.... Anyway, I've got a few 5-15 dollar led lights around, ok, maybe 20 lol!!!! Many of them are variable beam patterns, most of those are push-pull types, and a couple are screw types. None are really great lights. I keep a decently bright torch in each of my cars, but I really want a cool, bright, long throw, variable output light for around the house that's pocketable, and is in my price range. Ok, I'll go up a bit (God help me or a lot more...) for the ultimate solution, but I'm writing looking for your expert opinions.

Much thanks, and let the ideas flow!

Welcome to CPF! There's a section here for light recommendations. But for $30 or so I think the JETBeam BC20 is a great deal. It's around that price give or take, it takes 2 x CR123A and has two modes, high and low. Top output is around 270 lumens IIRC. Great little budget light!