Carrying certain tools can help you handle any unexpected repairs or tasks that might pop up when heading out on a camping or hiking trip. Back in the day, campers typically packed a basic kit they carefully put together, making sure to include everything they might need for life in the wilderness. But over recent decades, compact gadgets that combine several functions into one sleek package have become tempting alternatives.
While multitools have gained a strong following for their convenience and portability, plenty of campers still bring a full set of separate gadgets. Each method has its strengths and weaknesses depending on the situation. I’ll break down the key advantages and disadvantages of relying on each of these options, so you can decide which approach fits your next adventure best.
Multitools
Is a multi-tool better than a toolkit? When you’re out hiking or camping, multipurpose multi-tools can be lifesavers. They’re incredibly versatile, and there’s a wide range of options out there to suit any need. Depending on the model, you might find all sorts of handy features built right in, like screwdrivers, nail pullers, bottle openers, corkscrews, even forks and knives.
Some versions of the multitool come with scissors, tweezers, reamers, and blades, making them perfect for everything from quick fixes to outdoor adventures. And if you’re looking for something super compact, there are even ultra-slim, credit card-sized versions that fit easily in your wallet. These sleek gadgets pack in a surprising amount of functionality, including gear like saw blades, cutting edges, various wrenches, and rulers, all designed to be lightweight and portable without sacrificing usefulness.
One of the biggest perks of multi-tools is that they keep all the essentials bundled together, so you’re less likely to lose any pieces. Plus, everything you need is right at your fingertips, making quick fixes or simple tasks much easier without having to dig through your pack. It also means you don’t have to carry around a bunch of separate items, which can save space and weight. Many of these gadgets can even be clipped onto your belt or attached to the outside of your backpack, so they’re always within reach.
That said, multi-tools Australia-wide aren’t without their quirks. For instance, it’s tricky to use two functions at once, which can slow you down if you’re trying to tackle something that needs multiple tools simultaneously. You also only have one of each feature, so if you’re working with bolts on opposite ends, it might not be the most efficient setup. And while they’re designed to be compact, the extra parts and housing can add a bit of weight you wouldn’t have with a single-purpose item. Despite these downsides, for most people on the trail, the convenience outweighs the occasional hassle.
Traditional Toolkits
Bringing a full kit on a hiking or camping trip can feel like overkill at first, but for those who like to be prepared, it has a lot going for it. One of the biggest perks is the ability to tailor what you carry, whether that’s only the gear you know you’ll need or adding in a few extras for those just-in-case moments. If you’re the kind of person who likes to tinker or needs a solution on the fly, having separate items gives you the freedom to use more than one thing at once, which isn’t something multitools handle well. Plus, for more complex fixes, a traditional kit often feels a lot more capable.
That said, hauling a set of individual items does come with some trade-offs. Smaller pieces can easily go missing if you’re not careful, and the clatter of metal-on-metal in your pack isn’t exactly music to your ears while trekking through the bush. It’s also easy to overpack and bring things that never leave the bag. Still, for those who prefer flexibility and don’t mind a bit of extra weight, a kit can be a dependable companion when things go sideways in the outdoors.
Equipment Checklist
When you’re heading out into the bush, having the right gear on hand can make a big difference if something goes wrong. A good starting point is to cover the basics, those handy bits and pieces that come in useful for all sorts of repairs or adjustments. Here’s a solid lineup to consider:
- Needle-nose and standard pliers;
- A flat screwdriver (can double as a Phillips in a pinch);
- A sharp blade or compact knife;
- Small scissors or wire cutters;
- Adjustable wrench;
- A file for quick touch-ups;
- A saw blade or pocket saw;
- Tweezers (especially useful if you don’t already have them in your first-aid kit);
- A mini pry bar or hammer.
Additional Supplies
When you’re out in the middle of nowhere and something snaps, tears, or stops working, having a few backup supplies can save the day. Sometimes you need a quick patch-up or a temporary fix that holds long enough to get you back to base. Here are some handy items worth throwing in your backpack:
- Zip ties;
- Duct tape: the classic fix-it solution for rips, tears, or leaks;
- A vinyl patch kit: perfect for sealing up air mattresses or tent floors;
- Superglue and thick glue;
- O-rings: make sure they fit your stove, filter, or anything else that needs a good seal;
- Paracord or some strong rope;
- Safety pins;
- Small bungee straps;
- A tent pole repair sleeve: don’t let a broken pole ruin your shelter
- WD-40 (travel-sized): helps with anything that sticks or squeaks;
- Spare bulbs, as stumbling around in the dark is never fun.
