Picture this: you are three days into a backcountry camping trip and your tent pole snaps in half during a windstorm. Without the right tool, you are looking at a miserable night exposed to the elements. That is exactly why I never head into the woods without a solid multi tool strapped to my belt.
Finding the best multi tools for camping means balancing weight, functionality, and reliability. Over the past several months, our team tested 10 of the most popular camping multi tools side by side, from Leatherman classics to Victorinox Swiss Army knives and everything in between. We used them for tent setups, fire prep, cooking tasks, and emergency gear repairs.
Whether you are a car camper who wants something sturdy for the gear bin or an ultralight backpacker counting every ounce, this guide covers the options that actually perform when it matters. If you also want something for daily carry, check out our guide to the best multi tools for EDC.
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Leatherman Wave+ 18-in-1
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Leatherman Wingman 14-in-1
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Leatherman Skeletool 7-in-1
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Gerber Suspension-NXT 15-in-1
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Gerber Truss 17-in-1
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Gerber MP600 14-in-1
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Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit X
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Victorinox Huntsman 15-in-1
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SOG PowerPint 18-in-1
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SOG PowerAccess Deluxe 21-in-1
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18-in-1 Full-Size
Stainless Steel
318g
25-Year Warranty
I have carried the Leatherman Wave+ on more camping trips than I can count, and it remains the tool I reach for first. The outside-accessible blades are a massive advantage when you need to cut paracord or open a package one-handed while holding something with your other hand. You do not even need to open the pliers to get to the knife or saw.
The 18 tools cover nearly every camping scenario I have encountered. The needle nose pliers handled bent tent stakes. The saw cut through small branches for fire kindling. The file smoothed down a rough edge on my camp chair frame. With 4,490 reviews and a 4.7-star average, the Wave+ has earned its reputation through years of real-world use.
What sets the Wave+ apart for camping specifically is the replaceable wire cutters. After months of cutting wire fencing and fishing leaders, you can swap in fresh cutters instead of replacing the entire tool. The 25-year warranty from Leatherman adds serious peace of mind when you are investing in gear that needs to last.
The all-stainless-steel construction takes abuse without complaint. I have dropped mine on rocks, used it in the rain, and left it in a damp pack overnight. A quick wipe-down and it is ready to go. The only real downside is weight. At 318 grams, it is noticeable on a belt or in a pocket during long hikes.
Car campers and base camp users who want maximum functionality in one tool will love the Wave+. It is also a strong pick for campers who do repair work on the trail, from fixing stoves to adjusting bike components. The outside-accessible blades make it practical for frequent use throughout the day.
If you are building a camping kit that needs to handle both expected tasks and surprise repairs, the Wave+ is the most versatile single tool you can pack. It pairs well with a dedicated fixed-blade knife for heavier cutting tasks.
Ultralight backpackers counting every gram will find the Wave+ too heavy for their needs. At 318 grams, it adds noticeable weight compared to minimalist tools like the Skeletool. If your camping trips involve mostly car camping and you prefer something lighter on your belt, consider the Wingman instead.
The full-size design also means it is not the best choice if you want something that disappears in your pocket. You will likely want to use the included belt sheath or pack it in your camping bag.
14-in-1 Tools
Stainless Steel
6.88 oz
25-Year Warranty
The Leatherman Wingman is the tool I recommend to friends who are just getting into camping and do not want to spend big money. For what it costs, you get spring-loaded pliers, spring-loaded scissors, a locking knife blade, and 11 other tools that cover the basics of camp life. The 4.8-star rating across 9,832 reviews tells you everything about how well this tool performs.
The spring-action pliers are a standout feature that really matters at camp. When you are tightening a loose stove connection or pulling a hot pot handle, the spring mechanism opens the pliers automatically after each squeeze. This saves your hands from fatigue during longer repair jobs around the campsite.
The package opener tool is one of those features you never knew you needed until you have it. Opening freeze-dried meal pouches, cutting zip ties off new gear, and slicing through stubborn plastic packaging around camp all become effortless. The removable pocket clip gives you solid carry options without needing the sheath.
Build quality is solid stainless steel with a smooth butterfly-opening action. After weeks of camping use, the hinges still feel tight and the blades stay sharp. The 25-year warranty matches what you get on Leatherman tools costing twice as much, which speaks to the confidence behind this product.
First-time camping multi tool buyers and budget-conscious campers will find the Wingman hits the sweet spot between price and performance. It is also great for group camping trips where you want a capable tool at camp but are not doing serious repair work. The spring-loaded tools make it comfortable for anyone to use.
If you want Leatherman quality without the premium price tag, the Wingman delivers that experience. It makes a great gift for someone who camps occasionally and needs a reliable, no-frills tool.
Campers who need a saw for cutting branches or a serious file for metal work will find the Wingman lacking. The absence of a saw is the biggest gap for outdoor use. If your camping involves wood processing or trail maintenance, the Wave+ or Gerber Truss would be better picks.
The locking mechanism only secures the knife and scissors, not all tools. For users who prioritize full tool locking for safety, this is a meaningful limitation.
7-in-1 Minimalist
Stainless Steel
5.6 oz
25-Year Warranty
When every ounce matters on a multi-day backpacking trip, the Leatherman Skeletool is the multi tool I reach for. At just 5.6 ounces, it weighs less than half of full-size multi tools while still giving you the tools that matter most at camp: a sharp locking blade, needle nose pliers, wire cutters, and a bit driver.
The blade on the Skeletool is genuinely impressive. It arrives razor-sharp from the factory and locks open with a satisfying click. I have used it for everything from slicing summer sausage to cutting paracord for a bear hang. The bit driver accepts standard hex bits, so you can carry a few extras for specific repairs without adding much weight.
The built-in carabiner and bottle opener combination is clever design. You can clip the Skeletool directly to a backpack strap or belt loop for instant access. I found myself reaching for it constantly during camp setup and teardown because it was always right there, not buried in a pocket or pack.
The minimalist philosophy means Leatherman cut away everything non-essential. There are no scissors, no file, no saw, no can opener. For some campers that is too stripped down. But for backpackers who already carry a dedicated knife and just want pliers and a blade in one light package, the Skeletool nails the brief.
Ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers will appreciate the Skeletool more than any other multi tool on this list. It practically disappears in a pocket or on a pack strap. Day hikers who want a capable tool without the bulk also love this one.
If you already carry a dedicated folding knife and just want pliers and a backup blade, the Skeletool gives you exactly that with zero excess weight.
Car campers and base camp users who want maximum functionality from a single tool will find 7 tools too limited. If you need scissors, a saw, a file, or a can opener, the Skeletool does not have them. The non-spring-action pliers also require more effort to operate compared to tools like the Wingman.
Campers who do a lot of food preparation at camp might miss having scissors and a can opener readily available.
15-in-1 Tools
Alloy Steel
6.7 oz
Butterfly Opening
The Gerber Suspension-NXT proves you do not have to spend a fortune to get a capable camping multi tool. For campers on a tight budget, this 15-in-1 tool delivers the essentials: needle nose pliers, a partially serrated 2.25-inch blade, scissors, three flathead drivers, two cross drivers, an awl, and both can and bottle openers.
I tested the Suspension-NXT during a weekend car camping trip and came away impressed for the price. The butterfly-opening design feels solid once broken in, and the tool lock keeps blades secure during use. The scissors handled first aid tape and moleskin cutting without trouble, and the serrated blade section worked well on nylon webbing.
The partially serrated blade is a smart choice for camping. The plain edge section handles food prep and clean cuts, while the serrated section tears through rope, webbing, and tough materials. Having both in one blade at this price point is unusual and welcome.
The main trade-off is fit and finish. Out of the box, the pliers felt gritty and the arms were very tight. After a few days of use, everything loosened up and worked smoothly. The lack of a carrying pouch means you will need to figure out your own storage solution or keep it in a pocket.
Campers who want maximum tools per dollar will find the Suspension-NXT hard to beat. It is also a smart pick for group camping trips where you want a backup tool that does not cost much if it gets lost or damaged. First-time multi tool buyers can start here without a big investment.
If you need a tool for occasional camping trips and do not want to commit to a premium option, the Suspension-NXT gets the job done reliably.
Frequent campers and those who rely on their multi tool daily should consider stepping up to the Gerber Truss or a Leatherman for better long-term durability. The initial stiffness and slight wiggle when closed suggest quality control that is not quite at the premium tier.
The lack of a sheath means you need to plan how you will carry it. For campers who prefer belt carry with a pouch, you will need to source one separately.
17-in-1 Tools
Stainless Steel
8 oz
Sheath Included
The Gerber Truss packs 17 tools into a slim package that slides easily into a camping pack or sits flat on a belt. What immediately caught my attention is the inclusion of both a full plain edge blade and a full serrated blade, giving you dedicated cutting options for different camping tasks. Add in a saw, scissors, three flathead drivers, and an awl, and you have a serious tool collection.
During testing, I appreciated the slim profile. At just 0.5 inches thick when folded, the Truss takes up minimal space in a pack or pocket. The tool lock engages with a solid click on each implement, which matters for safety when you are using the blade one-handed around camp.
The included sheath is a nice touch at this price, though it is clearly a budget item. It holds the tool securely enough for camp use but may not hold up to years of daily carry. The Truss makes up for it with a well-rounded tool selection that covers most camping needs from food prep to gear repair.
Where the Truss shows its budget nature is under heavy stress. The thin stainless steel frame can flex if you really bear down on the pliers, and some users report the plier tips breaking when used as a pry tool. Stick to normal cutting, gripping, and turning tasks and the Truss performs well within its design limits.
Campers who want the most tool variety without spending premium money should look at the Truss. The 17-tool lineup with a saw, dual blades, and an included sheath gives you serious capability for the price. It is a great campsite tool that stays in the gear bin and handles whatever comes up.
If you want a backup multi tool to keep in your vehicle camping kit, the Truss is a cost-effective choice that will not disappoint for routine tasks.
Campers who use their pliers hard for wire work, mechanical repairs, or heavy prying should look at the Gerber MP600 or Leatherman Wave+ instead. The Truss frame is designed for everyday tasks, not extreme loads. Professionals and frequent users will benefit from the thicker, more durable frames on premium options.
The included sheath quality is underwhelming. If a high-quality sheath matters to you, factor in the cost of upgrading or look at the Gerber MP600 which comes with a better one.
14-in-1 Tools
Stainless Steel
8 oz
Made in USA
The Gerber MP600 has been a military standard issue tool for years, and that pedigree shows in its design philosophy. The one-handed opening pliers with the Saf.T.Plus locking system let you deploy and stow the pliers with a flick of your wrist. When your other hand is holding a pot over a campfire or steadying a broken tent pole, that one-hand operation is a genuine advantage.
The standout feature for camping is the carbide wire cutter inserts. These are three-sided, so when one edge dulls, you simply rotate to a fresh edge. When all three are spent, you replace the inserts rather than the entire tool. This is a huge advantage for campers who cut wire fencing, fishing wire, or electrical connections on the trail.
I found the MP600 particularly useful for vehicle-based camping. The Phillips screwdriver with bit adapter and the replaceable jig saw blade make it practical for emergency vehicle repairs. The 14-tool selection covers the essentials without unnecessary extras, keeping the tool focused and practical.
Out of the box, the MP600 arrives heavily lubricated and some tools are quite stiff. Plan to wipe it down and work the mechanisms a few times before your first trip. After that break-in period, everything operates smoothly and the tool feels built to last through years of hard outdoor use.
Campers who prioritize one-handed operation and military-grade durability will love the MP600. Overlanders and vehicle campers benefit especially from the bit adapter and replaceable saw blade. If your camping trips involve mechanical work, this is one of the best multi tools for the job.
The made-in-USA construction and limited lifetime warranty give confidence that this tool is built to handle rough conditions year after year.
At 8 ounces, the MP600 is on the heavier side and not ideal for ultralight backpacking. Campers who prefer a refined, polished feel might find the MP600 a bit rough around the edges compared to a Victorinox or Leatherman. The initial cleaning and break-in requirement adds an extra step before first use.
If you do not need the one-handed pliers or carbide cutters, you can get similar functionality from the Gerber Truss at a lower price.
24 Functions
Swiss Made
7.4 oz
Leather Pouch Included
The Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit X is what happens when Swiss watchmaking precision gets applied to a multi tool. Every tool opens and closes with a buttery smoothness that makes competitors feel agricultural by comparison. The fit and finish are exceptional, with tight tolerances and a polished look that speaks to the 24 functions packed inside.
One of the most practical design choices is that all tools are accessible without opening the pliers. On many multi tools, you have to deploy the pliers first, then fish around inside the handles for the tool you need. On the Spirit X, each tool opens independently from the outside. This saves time and frustration when you are working on tasks around camp.
The ergonomic curved handles are a subtle but important detail. When you are gripping the pliers for an extended repair job, the handles conform to your hand rather than digging in. During a three-hour gear repair session at base camp, I noticed significantly less hand fatigue compared to straight-handled tools.
The included leather pouch is a genuine leather case that feels premium and protects the tool in your pack. It is a step above the nylon and synthetic sheaths included with most multi tools. The lifetime warranty from Victorinox matches the quality level you would expect at this price.
Campers who appreciate refined craftsmanship and are willing to invest in a premium tool will find the Spirit X worth every penny. It is ideal for those who want all tools accessible without opening pliers. If you do fine work at camp like electronics repair, fishing tackle assembly, or detailed food prep, the precision pliers and smooth operation are a real advantage.
The 24-function tool count means you are prepared for almost anything without carrying extras. The leather pouch adds a touch of class that makes this a great gift for the discerning camper.
The price is the main barrier. At this level, you are paying a significant premium for Swiss craftsmanship over a Leatherman Wave+ that offers similar functionality for less. Budget-conscious campers can get 90% of the capability from the Wingman or Truss.
The scissors are smaller than expected for a tool at this price, and the knife blade is compact. If a large blade is a priority, a dedicated camping knife paired with a simpler multi tool might serve you better.
15 Functions
Swiss Made
3.4 oz
Lifetime Warranty
The Victorinox Huntsman is not a pliers-based multi tool, and that is exactly why it belongs on this list. At just 3.4 ounces, it delivers 15 functions in a package that genuinely fits in your pocket. For campers who want a capable tool without the bulk of butterfly-opening designs, the Huntsman is the classic answer.
The wood saw is the real star for camping. This is not a toy blade. The Victorinox wood saw cuts through branches up to 2 inches thick with surprising speed. I used it to process kindling for a campfire and was genuinely impressed by how efficient it is for its size. Paired with the large blade and scissors, you have a solid trio for camp tasks.
With over 26,000 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, the Huntsman is one of the most trusted tools in the camping world. The red transparent scales look classic and distinctive. You also get a corkscrew (great for wine at camp), a multipurpose hook, wire stripper, two screwdrivers, a reamer, tweezers, and a toothpick.
The main limitation is the lack of pliers. If your camping frequently involves gripping, bending, or pulling tasks, you will miss having pliers. But for cutting, opening, and general utility, the Huntsman is hard to beat at this weight and price.
Ultralight campers and hikers who want a classic, reliable tool without any excess weight will love the Huntsman. It is also perfect for campers who already carry a pliers-based multi tool and want a backup blade-and-saw combination. The 3.4-ounce weight means there is zero excuse to leave it behind.
If you want a lifetime-quality tool that handles the most common camping tasks with Swiss precision, the Huntsman delivers exceptional value and performance.
Campers who need pliers for gear repair, fishing, or mechanical work will need to supplement the Huntsman with another tool or choose a pliers-based multi tool instead. The nail-notch opening system can be frustrating with cold or wet hands, which is a real consideration for early morning and late evening camp tasks.
If you tend to drop tools on hard surfaces, the transparent red scales can chip or crack over time. The aluminum-scaled version is more durable if that concerns you.
18-in-1 Tools
Stainless Steel
5.12 oz
Compound Leverage
The SOG PowerPint takes the compact multi tool concept seriously. At just 3.2 inches closed and 5.12 ounces, it is small enough to forget you are carrying it until you need it. But SOG packs 18 tools into that tiny frame, including the compound leverage pliers that give you double the gripping power compared to standard pliers.
Those compound leverage pliers are the highlight for camping. They grip with surprising strength for the tool's size, making them useful for bending wire, gripping bolts, and holding hot items around camp. The mechanical advantage means you can apply serious force with minimal effort, which is great when your hands are tired after a long day of hiking.
The 1/4-inch magnetic hex bit holder is another practical feature. It accepts standard bits, so you can customize your bit selection based on your camping gear. I kept a few Torx and Phillips bits in my pack for stove and tent pole repairs. The magnet holds bits securely even when you are working in awkward positions.
Where the PowerPint falls short is consistency. The scissors on my unit were dull out of the box, and some users report the same issue. A few of the 18 tools, like the protractor and ruler, feel like filler rather than genuinely useful features. But the core tools work well for the price and size.
Campers who want maximum gripping power in a compact, affordable package will appreciate the SOG PowerPint. The compound leverage pliers punch well above their weight class. It is also a strong choice for campers who already have a bit collection and want a multi tool that works with standard hex bits.
If pocket carry is your preferred method and full-size tools feel too bulky, the PowerPint fits the bill without sacrificing core functionality.
Campers who demand premium blade steel and consistent quality across every tool should look at the Leatherman options instead. The SOG blade steel is adequate but not exceptional, and quality control across the 18 tools varies. The 18-tool count sounds impressive, but several tools are not particularly useful for camping.
If you need a tool with a proven track record over years of hard use, the more established Leatherman and Victorinox options offer better long-term reliability.
21-in-1 Tools
Stainless Steel
16 oz
Nylon Sheath + Hex Bit Kit
The SOG PowerAccess Deluxe is the most tool-heavy option on this list with 21 functions, and it comes with a 12-piece hex bit kit that dramatically expands its repair capabilities. For campers who want one tool that can handle anything from stove maintenance to vehicle repairs, this is the most complete package SOG offers.
The compound leverage technology means the pliers grip with approximately double the force of conventional multi tool pliers. I used them to bend a damaged tent pole back into shape and tighten a loose trailer hitch bolt on a camping trip. Both tasks would have been difficult with standard pliers but manageable with the compound leverage advantage.
The included 12-piece hex bit kit is a genuine value-add. You get Phillips, flathead, Torx, and hex bits that work with the 1/4-inch driver. This turns the PowerAccess Deluxe into a portable workshop for camping gear repairs. The nylon sheath holds both the tool and the bit kit, keeping everything organized in your pack.
The weight is the obvious trade-off. At 16 ounces, this is the heaviest tool in our lineup and not something you want dangling from your belt on a long hike. It is best suited for car camping, base camp use, or situations where you know you will need serious repair capability.
Car campers, overlanders, and base camp operators who want maximum tool capability in one package should consider the PowerAccess Deluxe. The 21-tool count and included bit kit make it a mobile repair station. It is also a strong pick for campers who bring vehicles and need roadside repair capability.
If your camping trips involve fixing things regularly, the compound leverage pliers and comprehensive bit set save you from carrying a separate tool roll.
Anyone counting ounces on the trail should look elsewhere. At 16 ounces, the PowerAccess Deluxe is simply too heavy for backpacking or day hiking. The pivot screws have been reported as too tight from the factory and made of soft material that can strip, requiring some careful adjustment out of the box.
Campers who want replaceable wire cutters should note that the PowerAccess Deluxe cutters are fixed. When they wear out, you cannot swap in fresh edges like you can on the Leatherman Wave+ or Gerber MP600.
Choosing the right camping multi tool comes down to matching the tool to your specific outdoor style. After testing these 10 options across dozens of camping trips, here are the factors that actually matter when making your decision.
If you are backpacking, every ounce counts. The Victorinox Huntsman at 3.4 ounces and the Leatherman Skeletool at 5.6 ounces are the clear choices for weight-conscious campers. Car campers have more freedom to carry heavier tools like the SOG PowerAccess Deluxe (16 oz) without penalty.
A good rule of thumb is that a camping multi tool should weigh less than your headlamp. If it is heavier than that, you will start leaving it behind on trips.
Not all tools are created equal when it comes to camping. The tools that get used most around camp, based on my experience and forum discussions from r/camping and r/CampingGear, are pliers, a knife blade, scissors, a saw, and a can or bottle opener. Screwdrivers are useful for gear repair. Files and wire strippers see occasional use.
Tools you will rarely use at camp include rulers, protractors, and awls. Focus on the tools that solve real problems rather than chasing the highest tool count number.
A locking blade is non-negotiable for camping. You will be using the knife for food prep, cutting rope, and various tasks where a blade folding back on your fingers is dangerous. The Leatherman Wave+ and Gerber Truss both offer reliable tool locks on all implements, not just the blade.
Forum users on r/multitools consistently mention tool lock reliability as a top concern. Spring-loaded tools that do not lock can close unexpectedly during hard use, which is a safety risk.
When you are holding a pot handle with one hand and need to deploy a blade with the other, one-handed operation becomes critical. The Gerber MP600 with its flick-open pliers and the Leatherman Wave+ with outside-accessible blades are the best options for one-hand deployment. Tools that require two hands to open become frustrating when you are wearing gloves or have cold, wet hands.
Leatherman backs most tools with a 25-year warranty. Victorinox offers a lifetime warranty. Gerber provides limited lifetime coverage on many models. These warranties matter because camping tools take abuse from weather, impacts, and constant use. A solid warranty means the manufacturer stands behind their product for the long haul.
For a deeper dive into cutting tools that complement your multi tool, see our guide to the best survival knives for bushcraft. And if you are putting together a full camping kit, our article on gravity water filters for group camping covers another essential piece of gear.
The Leatherman Wave+ is the best overall multi tool for camping. It offers 18 tools including outside-accessible blades, replaceable wire cutters, a saw, scissors, and pliers. The 25-year warranty and proven durability make it reliable for everything from tent repairs to food prep. For budget-conscious campers, the Leatherman Wingman delivers excellent value with spring-action pliers and 14 tools.
Yes, a multi tool is one of the most useful items you can bring camping. It handles gear repairs, food preparation, fire starting tasks, emergency fixes, and general utility that would otherwise require a whole toolbox. Even a compact option like the Victorinox Huntsman at 3.4 ounces provides a knife, saw, and scissors that solve dozens of camp problems. Most experienced campers consider a multi tool as essential as a headlamp.
In most US states, carrying a multi tool is perfectly legal for camping and outdoor activities. However, laws vary by location and context. Some cities restrict blade length or prohibit carrying locking knives in certain public spaces. National parks and federal lands generally allow multi tools for camping use. Always check local regulations before traveling, especially internationally where knife laws can be strict. Using common sense and keeping your tool stored when not in use avoids most issues.
The Gerber MP600 has been a standard-issue multi tool for the US military. It features one-handed opening pliers, carbide wire cutter inserts, and the Saf.T.Plus locking system designed for tactical use. Leatherman tools are also widely used across military branches. The key military requirements are one-hand deployment, extreme durability, and reliable locking mechanisms, which are the same features that make these tools excellent for camping.
The absolute best multi tool depends on your needs, but the Leatherman Wave+ consistently ranks at the top across expert reviews and user feedback. It has 18 tools, outside-accessible blades, replaceable wire cutters, and a 25-year warranty. For ultralight use, the Leatherman Skeletool at 5.6 ounces is the top pick. For maximum tool count, the SOG PowerAccess Deluxe offers 21 functions. The Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit X is the best premium option for those who want Swiss craftsmanship.
After testing 10 multi tools across months of camping, the Leatherman Wave+ remains my top pick for most campers. It hits the balance of 18 useful tools, outside-accessible blades for one-hand use, and a 25-year warranty that means it will outlast your tent. The Leatherman Wingman wins on value, and the Skeletool is the go-to for weight-conscious backpackers.
The best multi tools for camping are the ones you actually bring with you. A 21-tool behemoth sitting in a drawer at home helps no one. Match the tool to your camping style: lightweight for backpacking, full-featured for base camp, and budget-friendly for casual trips. Pick one, keep it accessible, and it will earn its place in your kit on the very first trip.
Looking for more outdoor gear? Check out our guides to outdoor adventure gifts and portable power stations for camping to complete your kit for 2026.