If you’re heading out into the wild for the next few days, being prepared for everything that might come your way as you navigate the wilderness is perhaps a vital aspect of the whole thing. One of the most functional means to show up prepared for any camping experience are the pocket tools.
Whether it’s a handy pocket knife to cut through rigid materials or a flashlight for unforeseen trips in the dark, these compact tools turn a whole box of big, clunky gadgets into small, portable devices so you’re prepared for any task. Since there is a myriad of pockets available, picking the right set is absolutely crucial.
Pocket Torches
Camping lighting has come a long way since the traditional and to some extent dangerous gas lanterns. On the other hand, modern LED lanterns are great, but won’t it be better to have something smaller packed in your pocket and always at hand when you need it?
With that in mind, a bright LED pocket torch flashlight is one of the most essential pocket items and the best portable light source every aspiring camper needs. The best part about torches? When your camping trip is over you can still keep it in your pocket and use it on daily basis. They will not only light the way in front of you, but also the keyhole in your front door, provide light if your car breaks down amid a rural road, and point you in the direction of the fuse box if the power goes out.
LED pocket flashlights use light-emitting diode bulbs because they are significantly more energy-efficient than the filament bulbs found in older versions. Many even have extra features like SOS signalling and strobing to confuse assailants. And the beam intensity which varies between 10 and 800 lumens is what makes the torch the ideal 7mm tool everyone should have!
Many LED pocket lights have been using disposable batteries for a while now. Standard alkaline batteries, such as AA, AAA, and others, are always used in less expensive models, while more expensive but longer-lasting lithium batteries, typically of the CR type, are used in more premium models.
However, disposable batteries are not only costly, especially the lithium variety, but also environmentally harmful because they are disposed of in landfills. The most recent trend is therefore toward rechargeable lithium batteries that can be easily charged via a simple micro-USB cable attached to a power source, a computer, or a portable USB power bank.
Even though this torch flashlight itself might cost more, you’ll end up saving a ton of money and contributing to saving Mother Earth.
Pocket Knife
A good pocket knife is one of the best things to have when camping. It can be used to prepare food, cut the cord, make repairs, create a roasting stick, or even save your life in an emergency.
There are many different types, designs, and materials available for pocket knives. The knife you select will depend on your activities and planned use as the ideal choice for an ultralight backpacking trip may be different from what you require for regular use or vehicle camping.
Because you will regularly carry them in your pocket, these knives have foldable blades which are shielded inside the handle when not in use. A non-locking blade could inadvertently fold down on your fingertips while in use, and smaller folding knives typically lack the stability and ergonomics of fixed-blade knives.
Binoculars
When appreciating the outdoors, it’s inevitable to see animals like birds and mammals as well as breathtaking scenery like far-off islands or mountains. Binoculars are the best tool to use to get a better view so you can enjoy it to the utmost!
What makes a good pair of binoculars, however, is defining your needs! Consider safari binoculars, for instance, if you’re heading on a camping safari vacation, but a good set of all-purpose binoculars if your camping trip’s goal is to observe your environs.
When looking for the ideal pair keep in mind though that the size does matter! This largely depends on the type of camping you engage in. For instance, you’ll need a compact, lightweight pair if you backpack. These binoculars frequently have a smaller exit pupil, which means they perform worse in low light. However, size is less of a problem if you go camping in a campervan, motorhome, or caravan.
Even though using binoculars primarily serves the purpose of getting closer to the object you want to view, a decent view isn’t always guaranteed by a larger magnification. As the magnification or power of your binoculars rises, it becomes more difficult to keep them steady. Additional effects of higher magnifications include smaller fields of vision and a diminished sense of depth of focus.
Therefore, a set of good “all-around” binoculars with a magnification of 8x to about 10x are always a good compromise. While the latter will give you more detail on whatever you are focusing on, the former is effective in all kinds of terrain and a wide range of circumstances, including forested areas and open fields.
First Aid Kits
Even though a straightforward slip and fall may cause bruising and a knee injury, adding dirt only makes things worse. A bee sting or an allergic response to a stinging plant may hurt, but medication can make them go away fast.
Sure, you can’t stop mishaps from happening, but you can make the most of your camping journey by packing a first aid kit that contains all the essentials such as bandages, gauze, tweezers, and over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and antihistamines!