When camping or going on a long distance hike, keeping your pack light while still having everything you need is essential. One of the best ways you can achieve this is by bringing useful tools that do more than one job. Here are just a few of the best multi-tools for camping that will lighten your gear load.
Knives
A good knife is a must-have when camping. Make your knife work overtime by having one that includes a flint and steel in the base, or one that has multiple attachments like a can opener, corkscrew, and bottle opener. This can make life simpler without adding weight. Multi-tools that have folding knife blades, pliers, and screwdriver heads are also very useful. Having a knife with both smooth and serrated edges do double duty as well. You may want to add a more simple, but versatile boot knife to your camping supplies as some multitool blades can be too small for some tasks. You’ll also want to pick up a knife sharpener; typically one designed for pocket knives work best with multitools.
Hatchet
A nice sharp hatchet can help you build a shelter or gather firewood in a snap. How about one that includes a firestarter built into the handle as well as other handy items like a rope cutter and a paracord wrap? Now you have three handy survival tools rolled into one!
Cookware and Utensils
Mealtime is the perfect time for a terrific camping multi-tool. The classic spork combines your spoon and fork in one, and many new designs now feature a small, serrated edge for cutting food as well. Instead of packing a cooking pot, and a plate and mug, just eat out of the pot. That means less washing up as well as less to carry around. This works for most any meal, from oatmeal and eggs to soups and stews.
You can also shave ounces off your pack’s weight by using a stuff sack to both hold your clothes and for use as a pillow at night, rather than packing a separate headrest. Bringing along tools that do more than one job can lighten your load while still giving you everything essential you need for the campsite.
