You don't need a super bright torch, a wide even beam that covers the road is more important.
Look for -
- Waterproof - it will often be raining!
- Rechargeable and runs for at least 2 hours on a charge - much easier to find now that torches all use LED bulbs
- Light to carry
A popular torch that has lasted well for many patrollers is the Clulite LED-Liter ClassicClulite LED-Liter Classic . Clulite is a UK company that sells spare parts for their torches. The torch is usually available online for about £29 - see https://pickmore.co.uk/product/clulite-rechargeable-torch (November 2024).
If you hold your torch at eye level then you can spot toads at a greater distance by seeing the red light bounce back from the toads eyes, you can also spot their lighter coloured chest as the toad sits up.
Headtorches leave your hands free but tend to have a narrower beam and require you to move your head in order to sweep the road - it is easy to miss a toad! Take care not to blind car drivers and other patrollers if you use a headtorch.