Outdoor Gear: Why a Multi-Tool Is a Must-Have for Camping

You are all packed and prepared for your camping. You arrive at the location, set up the tent, unpack your belongings and essentials, ready to start the first day of your adventure in the backcountry. Everything goes well and smoothly, but you accidentally notice a loose screw on your portable cooking stove, and you don't have the proper tool to fix this issue. That in itself is a disaster waiting to happen. This may lead to gas leakage and damage to the stove. Do you see how such a “harmless” situation can arise in a potential safety risk?

This is only one of the many examples of what everything can go wrong during camping. You might think this sounds very negative, but safety should be your ultimate priority when you’re in the wilderness. Having an all-purpose tool can help you save the situation, no matter the circumstances. Find your camping multi tool and make sure you have any situation under control. Be ready to tackle any unexpected scenarios and have a memorable adventure.

Why Multi-Tools are Important in Camping?

 

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Once you step into the wilderness, you should be ready to face various unexpected situations. Besides having all your essentials such as shelter, proper clothing and food, a camping multi tool is a true lifesaver since it can be used for cutting and preparing food, opening cans and bottles, cutting branches, fixing your tent and gear, starting a fire and even as a first-aid kit.

Space Efficient

When packing for a camping adventure, space and weight not only are valuable commodities, but they can also make your camping experience either enjoyable or very uncomfortable.

You wouldn’t want to carry a heavy backpack while climbing steep paths or crossing rivers and creeks. It’s preferable to pack lightweight, so you can move with ease across different terrains.

Having one all-purpose camping tool can make such a significant difference in your packing process. This tool has several different invaluable tools built into the frame which can be used for various tasks. This eliminates the need to pack individual tools for every task so you can free up space to pack something else of great importance or simply reduce the overall weight of your gear.

Convenience on the Go

The best thing about camping multi-tools is their convenience. You can simply clip the tool on your belt or stash it in the pocket of your backpack and have instant access to it whenever you need it. Whether you need to cut a stubborn rope to secure your tent, tighten up a screw on your tent or stove, open up a can of food or remove hanging branches on the path while hiking, this multi-tool has you covered.

Lifeline in Emergency Situations

Multi-tools typically feature a variety of built-in tools such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, stranded wire cutters, saws, rulers, scissors, tweezers, bottle and can openers, etc. Having multiple functions packed into a single compact device can be a lifesaver in emergencies.

This is partially important where medical assistance is not readily available or in case you have forgotten your first-aid kit. This device can help you cut bandages, remove splinters and dress wounds.

Some multi-tools also feature fire starters, which is an invaluable aspect of camping in the wilderness. You can use this tool to start a fire to warm up, cook food or signal for help.

You can also use the multi-tool to build a shelter from leaves and branches and ensure your overall safety while waiting for help or surviving until the next morning.

For What You Can Use a Multi-Tool?

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  • Opening packaging, containers, cans and bottles, cutting food, cleaning and gutting fish
  • Removing splinters, thorns, burrs and ticks
  • Cutting wire, ropes, cords or paracords and branches
  • Repairing broken gear/equipment
  • Starting a fire
  • Taking measurements with the ruler
  • Making holes in a leather fabric
  • Using the file from the multi-tool for blade sharpening
  • Remove tent stakes or untie knots with the piler

As you can see, this multi-purpose device will have you covered throughout your entire camping adventure.

Maintenance and Care Tips

The first and most important thing is to keep your multi-tool clean and dry. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt, debris and moisture, or wash it with water if necessary, just make sure to let it dry completely in order to prevent corrosion.

Regular inspection of your multi-tool is necessary as it allows you to notice on time any signs of damage, corrosion or tear. Lubricate lightly the moving parts such as pivot points and hinges using nano oil. Avoid using heavy or greasy lubricants.

Sharpen the blades regularly to ensure smooth cutting and maintain their optimal performance and always store your multi-tool in a dry and clean environment to prevent damage.