Help a newbie to choose a flashlight for under 30$ ?

If you want a floodier beam, I’d recommend the Convoy S2.+ It feathers smoothly from large center spot to spill areas. Short of buying a Surefire (or adding a diffuser or diffusing film), you’re not going to find a nicer beam profile. The Convoy S2+ comes in a variety of tints, colors and power choices. “[link]”:18650 flashlight with protection built in? - #12 by 1dash1
Note: For camping purposes, I’d recommend you get the 7135*8 version, because you might need the extra output.

However, I hope you recognize that everything is a compromise. With a more mellow beam, it won’t throw nearly as far as the other flashlights. The S2+ is well-suited for needs in and around the campsite, but not for investigating things. I recommended the D80 to you because while camping, you may have an occasional need to try identify distant objects. The D80 is also more weatherproof than the S2+.