4 Camping items that have multiple uses: The 2nd one may surprise you

The idea of “less is more” certainly applies to camping, with the goal usually to bring as few things as possible. After all, you’re camping, not glamping! With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few multi-use camping items to bring with you on your next Great Wide Open excursion:

1. “Swiss Army Knife”

Swiss Army Knife

While you don’t have to purchase an *actual* Swiss Army Knife, it’s a good idea to have at least a knockoff version with you. A knife, pair of scissors, saw, toothpick, tweezers, flashlight…these are merely a few examples of what the knife can feature depending on the model you choose. Find one that best suits your needs and keep it with you whenever camping…or anytime.

2. Baking Soda

baking soda

Photo credit: George W. Bailey / Shutterstock.com

We’ve already delved into the many wondrous uses of baking soda, and with good reason. The non-toxic white stuff has seemingly endless uses, including many ideal for camping. Use it to keep dishes clean, as a dry shampoo and facial scrub, to heal bug bites, soothe diaper rash, put out fires and much, much more. Any good survival kit should feature at least one box of this inexpensive stuff!

3. Paracord Bracelet

paracord bracelets

It’s a bracelet that also happens to be several feet of durable rope. Make your own or purchase one from a camping supply retailer and slip it on the next time you go a-trekking. It doesn’t take up any space in your backpack because it’s on your wrist, and you’ll never know when extra rope may come in handy! Use it to hang clothing, as fishing line, to trap bears…okay, maybe not the last one, but you get the idea!

4. Duct Tape

duct tape

Remember that Mythbusters episode when they stuck themselves on a deserted island with duct tape their only tool? Yeah, it’s great stuff–use it with bandages to make an effective seal for cuts and scrapes, to repair tent tears, prevent blisters from forming on feet, in the creation of emergency splints, and much more.

What are your favorite multi-use camping tools?

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1 comment

    • Owen King on April 8, 2014 at 3:54 pm

    Leather boot laces – many uses from tying your boots, to holding your backpack together if broken.
    Tying branches for shelter, keeping the door to your shelter closed,.
    I know, para cord could be used for many of these purposes, but getting the leather a little wet, and stretching it while tying, it will shrink making a very firm knot.
    If you can make leather, you can make more strips – can you make nylon in a survival situation?

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