If you are hunting a stand and woods you know like the your yard or in open terrain maybe blackout is ok but if not I suggest using a light. Like said, noise burns you long before light. Barring the use of a "search" light the sound of stumbling along, breaking sticks etc... travels far beyond that of the light. The low Lumens Red and Green options don't penetrate the forest farther than your scent and helps with remaining the quiet. Add the increased chance of not taking the most direct route to your stand, getting jammed up in thickets and causing sweat utilizing a light may be a better choice...