If you have ever tried to pull a stubborn tent stake with a butter knife, you already know why the best multi-tools for camping earn their spot in every pack. I have spent the last decade rotating through different pliers-based multitools on weekend car trips, week-long backcountry routes, and one very cold winter camp where my Wave+ was the only thing standing between me and a frozen water filter. The right tool turns a slow Saturday setup into a five-minute task, and the wrong one just adds weight you resent by mile six.
Camping multitools are not all built for the same job. A heavy-duty Leatherman Wave+ is overkill for a single-night hammock hang, while a tiny Swiss Army knife will not save you when a buckle snaps on day three. I tested ten of the most popular models on real camp chores – cutting paracord, stripping wire on a busted camp lantern, opening cans of chili, and sawing kindling for the fire ring – so you can pick the one that fits how you actually camp.
Below you will find my top three picks, a side-by-side comparison table of all ten tools, detailed reviews for each one, and a buying guide that breaks down car camping versus backpacking, brand strengths, TSA rules, and field maintenance. If you are also building out the rest of your kit, check our guide on 12V portable refrigerators for camping and the best portable generators for camping to round out your basecamp setup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Camping Multi-Tools (September 2026)
Leatherman Wingman
- 14 tools
- spring-action pliers and scissors
- one-hand opening
- 25-year warranty
Best Multi-Tools for Camping in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Leatherman Wave+ |
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| Leatherman Wingman |
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| Gerber Suspension NXT |
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 MOSSY OAK 21-in-1 |
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 Gerber Multi-Plier 600 |
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 Amazon Basics 15-in-1 |
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 Gerber Truss 17-in-1 |
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 Leatherman Rebar |
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 RoverTac 14-in-1 Axe |
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 GIRIAITUS 16-in-1 Survival |
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1. Leatherman Wave+ – The Best Multi-Tool for Camping Overall
LEATHERMAN Wave Plus 18-in-1 Multi-Tool, DIY and Outdoors, Stainless Steel
18 tools
8.5 oz
Replaceable wire cutters
Outside-access
25-yr warranty
Pros
- Outside-accessible tools open without unfolding the pliers
- Replaceable wire cutters extend tool life
- Premium build quality made in Portland Oregon
- Locking tools for safety
- Spring-action scissors that actually cut fabric well
Cons
- Heavier than compact multitools
- Premium price point
- Sheath sold separately
I have owned a Leatherman Wave+ for five years and it has lived in my car, my pack, and my kitchen drawer at various points. It is the multitool I grab when I do not want to think, and that is exactly what you want on a camping trip where the to-do list includes cutting paracord, fixing a stuck zipper, opening a can of beans, and pulling a tent stake that decided to become permanent. With 18 functions in an 8.5-ounce stainless steel frame, it is the multitool that finally convinced me that one tool really can replace a small drawer of single-purpose gadgets.
The single feature that matters most on a campsite is the outside-accessible tools. You can flip open the knife, saw, or scissors without first unfolding the pliers, which means faster deployment and less wear on the plier joint. The replaceable wire cutters are a quiet superpower. After a season of cutting zip ties and the occasional speaker wire on a busted camp lantern, mine were dull, but I swapped in fresh blades and the tool was as good as new instead of being landfill-bound.
The blade on the Wave+ is a 420HC stainless steel plain edge that holds up to food prep and feather stick work. The scissors are spring-action and actually cut through Gore-Tex and Dyneema without folding the fabric. The pliers are spring-loaded on the 2024 revision, and the handles are comfortable for medium-size hands. At 5 inches closed, it fits in a belt pouch or a pack lid pocket without feeling like a brick.
My one real complaint is weight. At 8.5 ounces, the Wave+ is not a tool for ultralight backpackers counting every gram. For car campers, weekenders, and people who want one tool that does everything well, it is still the best camping multitool I have used. The 25-year warranty covers everything except cosmetic damage, and the made-in-Portland build quality means this tool will outlast your tent.
Who it is good for
Car campers, overlanders, and anyone who wants a single do-everything tool that will not let them down. The Wave+ is the kind of multitool you hand to a friend and watch their face change when they realize it has a bottle opener, pliers, scissors, and a knife – and all of them work.
Who should skip it
Ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers who count ounces. If your pack is already over 25 pounds and you are shaving grams off your toothbrush, the Wave+ is the wrong tool. The Leatherman Skeletool or a dedicated knife plus a small pliers tool will serve you better.
2. Leatherman Wingman – Top Rated Camping Multi-Tool
LEATHERMAN Wingman Multi-Tool, Spring-Action Pliers and Scissors, Stainless
14 tools
6.88 oz
Spring-action pliers
One-hand open
25-yr warranty
Pros
- Reliable Leatherman build quality
- Spring-action pliers easy with one hand
- Spring-action scissors included
- Compact and pocket-friendly
- Backed by 25-year warranty
Cons
- Tools only accessible by opening the whole unit
- Scissors smaller than premium Leatherman models
The Leatherman Wingman is what I recommend to friends who want a Leatherman but do not want to spend a hundred-plus dollars. It carries 14 tools in a 6.88-ounce stainless steel frame, made in the same Portland factory as the Wave+, and it gives up just enough features to land at a much friendlier price. For weekend trips where you want Leatherman quality without the premium multitool sticker shock, the Wingman is the sweet spot.
The first thing I noticed on the Wingman is how light the spring-action pliers feel. They pop out smoothly with one hand, which matters when you are holding a tent pole in the other. The spring-action scissors are a major upgrade over fixed pliers-based scissors – they cut fabric, paracord, and fishing line without you having to muscle them open each time.
For camping, the Wingman covers the 80% case beautifully. You get a locking knife blade, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, a package opener, bottle and can openers, a file, a wire cutter, and the spring scissors. The blade deploys with one hand thanks to a thumb stud, and every tool locks open for safe use. It is not as rugged as the Wave+ and the outside-access tool count is lower, but for most car camping chores you will not notice the difference.
The 25-year warranty is the same coverage Leatherman offers on its premium tools, which is why the Wingman punches above its weight class. At 3.8 inches folded it disappears in a pocket or the side pocket of a backpack. This is the multitool I keep in my truck’s glove box year-round because it handles 95% of what I throw at it without complaint.
Who it is good for
Weekend campers, new multitool owners, and anyone who wants Leatherman quality without paying for the flagship. If you camp a few times a year and need a tool that opens cans, cuts rope, and pliers through tent stakes without breaking the bank, the Wingman is a safe buy.
Who should skip it
People who do heavy field work or want a tool that can be deployed one-handed without unfolding the whole unit. If you regularly need scissors, saw, or knife access while the pliers are closed, the Wingman makes you work for it. The Wave+ or Charge+ is the better pick.
3. Gerber Suspension NXT – Best Value Budget Camping Multitool
Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 Multitool Pliers, EDC Knife, Stainless Steel
15-in-1
6.4 oz
Spring-loaded pliers
Locking tools
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Spring-loaded pliers with smooth joint
- Working scissors and full Phillips driver
- All tools lock into place
- Lightweight and pocket-friendly
Cons
- Knife blade runs soft and needs sharpening
- Tight thumb nail slots at first
- Not as heavy-duty as Leatherman under torque
The Gerber Suspension NXT is the multitool I recommend to friends who ask, “what is a good multitool that does not cost much?” With more than 23,000 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it is the most popular multitool on Amazon for a reason – it delivers near-Leatherman core functionality at a price that fits a glove box or a starter camping kit. I have carried one for two seasons of weekend trips and a scout camp, and it has earned its spot.
The 15 tools cover the everyday list: needle nose pliers, wire stripper, multiple flathead drivers, two cross drivers, an awl, scissors, can and bottle openers, a partially serrated blade, and a lanyard point. The spring-loaded pliers open smoothly with one hand, which is unusual at this price. Every tool locks open, which is a real safety upgrade over cheaper locking-on-butterfly tools.
On a real camp trip, the Suspension NXT handles tent repairs, food prep, paracord work, and the small fixes that always pop up. The scissors are functional for fabric and tape. The pliers grip tent stakes and tent pole segments without slipping. The blade is the soft side – it will need touch-ups more often than a Leatherman 420HC blade, but a few strokes on a small pocket sharpener fixes that.
At 6.4 ounces and 4.25 inches closed, the Suspension NXT is light and small enough to drop in a pack without thinking. Gerber’s limited lifetime warranty covers defects, though the build quality at this price is more “solid EDC” than “lifetime abuse tool.” For most campers, that is exactly the right trade.
Who it is good for
New campers, scout troops, gift purchases, and anyone who wants a feature-complete multitool without spending a lot. The Suspension NXT is also a great backup tool to keep in the car – if your primary multitool walks off at a campsite, this one is a 23,000-review winner you can replace fast.
Who should skip it
Heavy users who want the longest-lasting blade and the most refined plier joint. If you regularly cut wire, torque screws, or need a knife that holds an edge through a week of bushcraft, the Leatherman Wingman or Wave+ is a better investment.
4. MOSSY OAK 21-in-1 Multitool – Best Tool Variety on a Budget
MOSSY OAK 21-in-1 Multitool, Stainless Steel Pliers with Pocket Knife
21-in-1
454 g
Butterfly opening
Locking tools
8-bit set included
Pros
- Excellent build quality at the price
- Sharp plain and serrated blades with one-hand open
- Solid locking mechanism that stays secure
- Includes ruler and screwdriver bit set
- Comes with durable carrying pouch
Cons
- Heavier than compact multitools
- Tools can be tight to open initially
- Pouch belt loop uses single-line stitching
I was skeptical about the MOSSY OAK 21-in-1 going in, but after a season of testing it has become my recommendation for budget-conscious campers who want maximum tool variety. With 21 functions – including an 8-in-1 bit set, ruler, leather punch, wood saw, and the usual suspects – it covers almost every chore you can throw at it from food prep to field equipment repair.
The first thing I checked was the blade quality. Both the plain edge and serrated blade arrived shaving-sharp, and the one-hand opening thumb stud works with gloved hands. The butterfly opening mechanism is smooth, and every tool locks open at a solid 90-degree angle. The stainless steel body feels heavier than the spec suggests, but the trade-off is rigidity that does not flex under load.
On a camp trip, the bit driver with the included 8-bit set was the surprise winner. I used it to tighten loose screws on a camp chair, swap a battery terminal on a friend’s truck, and reattach a loose stove knob – jobs a standard multitool screwdriver cannot touch. The ruler came in handy when measuring cordage for a tarp ridgeline, and the leather punch made quick work of belt holes on a busted webbing strap.
At 16 ounces for the whole kit with sheath, the MOSSY OAK is not a backpacker’s tool. It is a car camping, basecamp, and shop multitool that does almost everything. The sheath is decent and the bit set pouch is a thoughtful touch. For the price, the tool variety is hard to beat.
Who it is good for
Car campers, overlanders, and DIYers who want maximum tool variety in one package. If you are outfitting a basecamp toolbox and a small repair kit at the same time, this is a strong two-in-one pick.
Who should skip it
Backpackers and anyone counting pack weight. At 16 ounces total, this is a vehicle-bound tool, not a trail tool. The Leatherman Skeletool or Wingman are better options for weight-conscious campers.
5. Gerber Multi-Plier 600 – Best Heavy-Duty Workhorse
Gerber Gear Multi-Plier 600 – 14-in-1 Multitool with Sheath, Needlenose Pliers, Screwdriver, Serrated Knife, Wire Crimper, Bottle Opener, Can Opener & More – Black with Sheath
14 tools
8 oz
Saf.T.Plus lock
One-hand open
Sheath included
Pros
- Quick one-hand deployment of pliers
- Strong pliers with reliable wire cutter
- All tools lock for safety
- Durable sheath with double stitching
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Slide-out plier design makes tools harder to access
- Knife is shorter than the handle could accommodate
- Tools harder to access with one hand
The Gerber Multi-Plier 600 is the workhorse multitool I keep coming back to for farm work, fence repair, and rough campsite tasks. It is heavier than most modern multitools at 8 ounces, and the slide-out plier design is older technology – but the plier joint is rock solid and the Saf.T.Plus locking system has held up through years of use. This is the multitool for people who need a tool that takes abuse.
The 14 tools cover the heavy-duty list: needle nose pliers, wire cutter, wire crimper, serrated blade, ruler, bottle and can openers, multiple screwdrivers, and a file. The patented one-hand opening plier deployment is fast once you get the hang of it, and the locking system on each tool is among the most confidence-inspiring in this price range.
On a real camp job, the MP600 is the multitool I reach for when I need to actually grip and twist something – tightening a loose tarp grommet, crimping a wire connection on a busted camp lantern, or pulling a deeply embedded tent peg. The wire cutters handle soft wire easily, and the replaceable saw blade is a nice touch for cutting branches for a fire ring.
The trade-off is the slide-out plier design. You have to slide the pliers out before you can access the other tools, which is slower than outside-access designs like the Wave+. If you value raw tool strength and a no-nonsense locking system over deployment speed, the MP600 is a dependable pick. The sheath is durable and includes a belt loop.
Who it is good for
Ranchers, farmers, overlanders, and campers who use their multitool for actual work – not just opening cans. If you regularly crimp wire, twist screws, or grip stubborn objects, the MP600 pliers will outwork most modern multitools.
Who should skip it
Anyone who values quick tool access. The MP600 makes you slide out the pliers to reach the knife or screwdrivers, which is a real chore in cold weather or with gloved hands. The Leatherman Wingman or Wave+ deploy faster.
6. Amazon Basics 15-in-1 – Best Pocket-Size Budget Multitool
Amazon Basics 15-in-1 Stainless Steel Multitool Pocket Knife with Sheath for Hiking, Camping, Survival, Black, Pocket Size
15-in-1
0.14 kg
Aluminum handle
Fish scaler
Pocket-size
Pros
- Very affordable multitool
- Includes fishing-specific tools
- Compact pocket-friendly size
- Comes with nylon sheath and belt loop
- Decent stainless steel construction
Cons
- Lower 4.3 star rating than competitors
- Plastic composite body less durable
- Quality control can vary
The Amazon Basics 15-in-1 is the multitool I bought for my kid’s first scout camping trip and ended up keeping as a backup. It is not a flagship tool, but for the price, it covers a surprising amount of ground – including a fish scaler and hook remover that the bigger brands leave out. If you want a multitool that handles the basics without a major investment, this is a reasonable starting point.
The 15 tools include the basics plus a couple of fishing-friendly additions: knife, saw, fish scaler, hook remover, scissors, bottle opener, slotted and Phillips screwdrivers, ice breaker, metal file, nail cleaner, needle, corkscrew, and a key-ring. The stainless steel tools are sharp enough for food prep and small camp tasks. The aluminum handle keeps the weight down to 0.14 kilograms, which is genuinely pocket-friendly.
On a camp trip, this multitool is best used as a backup or loaner. The knife cuts paracord, the saw handles small kindling, and the bottle opener pops a cold one at the end of a long day. The fish scaler is a niche feature but a real one if you fish. The scissors are functional but small. It will not replace a Leatherman for heavy use, but it will not let you down on a casual weekend.
The 4.3-star rating reflects the price trade-off – quality control varies and the aluminum handle does not feel as rigid as a stainless steel body. For a glove box multitool, a backup in a travel kit, or a first multitool for a new camper, the Amazon Basics 15-in-1 is hard to argue with at its price.
Who it is good for
Casual campers, backup tool buyers, and anyone who wants a usable multitool for under twenty dollars. Also a good pick for a fishing-focused camper who actually uses the fish scaler and hook remover.
Who should skip it
Regular campers who want a daily-carry multitool that lasts years. The build quality and blade retention are a tier below the Gerber and Leatherman options. Spend the extra for a Suspension NXT or Wingman if you camp more than a couple times a year.
7. Gerber Truss 17-in-1 – Best Slim Profile Multitool
Gerber Gear Truss 17-in-1 EDC Needle Nose Pliers Multi tool – includes Pocket Knife, Screwdriver, and Bottle Opener Accessories – Gifts for Men, Fishing and Camping Gear – Gray with Standard Sheath
17 tools
8.4 oz
Butterfly open
Locking
Standard sheath included
Pros
- Solid stainless steel construction feels sturdy
- 17 tools cover everyday needs
- Good value compared to similar multitools
- Lightweight for a full-size tool
- Tools deploy smoothly and lock in place
Cons
- Quality control inconsistencies between units
- Spring tension may need adjustment
- Standard sheath quality is low
- Locking mechanism can dig into fingers
The Gerber Truss is the slim-profile sibling of the Suspension NXT, and after a season of testing, it is my pick for campers who want more tools than the NXT without going to a heavier Leatherman. With 17 functions in an 8.4-ounce stainless steel frame, it covers the everyday list plus a few extras – including a saw and a real scissors – that the Suspension NXT leaves out.
The slim 1.75-inch handle profile is what sold me. It fits in a back pocket or a pack lid without bulging, and the butterfly opening is smooth once you break it in. Every tool locks open, which is a meaningful safety upgrade over cheaper Gerber models. The pliers are spring-loaded and comfortable for medium hands.
For camping, the Truss covers tent repair (scissors cut fabric, pliers grip stakes), food prep (knife and can opener), and field fixes (screwdrivers, file, awl). The saw is small but functional for kindling. The wire stripper and electrical-friendly screwdrivers are useful for camp lantern and headlamp repairs. At 4.25 inches closed, it slips into a belt sheath or pack pocket without complaint.
Quality control is the main thing to watch. A few owners report inconsistent tool tension out of the box, and the standard sheath is basic. Gerber’s limited lifetime warranty covers defects, and I have found their customer service responsive when issues come up. For most campers, the Truss is a strong mid-tier pick between the budget Suspension NXT and the premium Leatherman Wave+.
Who it is good for
Campers who want more tool variety than the Suspension NXT but do not want to pay Leatherman prices. If you regularly use scissors, saws, or files on camp trips, the Truss 17-in-1 is a sweet spot in the Gerber lineup.
Who should skip it
Premium multitool buyers who want the best lock engagement and most refined plier joint. The Leatherman Charge+ or Wave+ is a meaningful upgrade in feel and durability, and the Truss does not quite reach that level despite the spec sheet.
8. Leatherman Rebar – Best No-Nonsense Workhorse
LEATHERMAN Rebar Multi-Tool, Replaceable Wire Cutters and Saw, Coyote Tan
17 tools
9.6 oz
All-locking
Replaceable 154CM wire cutters
25-yr warranty
Pros
- Excellent build quality made in USA
- Solid steel construction with no rattling
- Replaceable 154CM wire cutters
- All tools lock in place
- D2 tool steel Phillips driver
- Beefy awl and full-size file
Cons
- No scissors included by design
- No spring-loaded pliers
- Tools not one-handed accessible
- No pocket clip
- Generic sheath may not fit well
The Leatherman Rebar is the multitool I recommend to people who use their multitool for actual work. Inspired by Tim Leatherman’s original PST, the Rebar is built like a small pocket toolbox – 17 all-locking tools, replaceable 154CM wire cutters, and a beefy 9.6-ounce frame that does not flex under load. This is the multitool for a ranch hand, an electrician at a basecamp, or anyone who has broken cheaper tools and learned the lesson.
The first thing you notice about the Rebar is the lack of rattle. Every tool locks solidly, the pliers do not wobble, and the whole tool feels like a single piece of steel rather than a collection of folding parts. The replaceable 154CM wire cutters are a serious upgrade over standard stainless cutters – they hold an edge through wire, zip ties, and the occasional staple.
On a camp job, the Rebar shines. The D2 tool steel Phillips driver handles real screws, the awl punches leather and webbing, and the full-size file is useful for deburring tools and sharpening the occasional axe head. The knife is a Leatherman 420HC blade that holds a working edge. The saw cuts cleanly through kindling. The pliers grip without slipping.
The trade-offs are real. There are no scissors by design – Leatherman saved weight and added beefier tools elsewhere. The pliers are not spring-loaded, so you have to muscle them open. The tools are not one-handed accessible, and there is no pocket clip. If you want a tool that deploys fast, the Wave+ is the better pick. If you want a tool that takes abuse, the Rebar is hard to beat.
Who it is good for
Tradespeople, ranchers, and campers who use their multitool for real work. If you wire electrical, crimp connections, or twist screws on a regular basis, the Rebar’s beefy build and replaceable cutters will outlast thinner multitools.
Who should skip it
Casual campers and anyone who values fast tool deployment. The Rebar makes you work for tool access in exchange for a tougher tool. If you mostly open cans, cut paracord, and want a quick-deploy knife, the Wingman is a more user-friendly pick.
9. RoverTac 14-in-1 Camping Axe – Best Axe-and-Hammer Multitool
RoverTac 14-in-1 Multitool Camping Axe – Multi Tool with Knife, Hammer, Saw, Screwdrivers, Bottle Opener – Camping Tool with Sheath – Tool Gifts for Men, Dad, Husband, and Outdoor Enthusiasts.
14-in-1
Stainless/aluminum
Axe and hammer
Nylon sheath
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Affordable multitool with axe and hammer
- Sturdy stainless steel construction
- Includes durable nylon sheath
- Useful for limited camp tasks
- Good gift option
Cons
- Axe and saw too small for serious cutting
- Tools do not lock when opened
- Metal handle can feel thin under heavy use
The RoverTac 14-in-1 is the multitool I bought for my truck’s emergency kit and have been quietly impressed by. It is not a primary camping multitool – the axe and saw are too small for serious wood work – but it bundles a hammer, axe, pliers, knife, and the usual suspects into one package that fits in a glove box. For emergency kits, glove box duty, and casual camp chores, it is a lot of tool for the money.
The 14 tools include an axe head, hammer, pliers, wire cutter, knife, saw, bottle and can openers, screwdrivers, file, and wrenches. The stainless steel head tools are sharp and the aluminum handle keeps the weight manageable. The nylon sheath has a belt loop and is sturdy enough for truck duty.
For camp use, the RoverTac is a “good enough” tool for casual trips. The axe head handles small kindling and stake driving, the hammer works on tent pegs, and the knife is sharp enough for food prep. The pliers grip reasonably well. The biggest limitation is the lack of locking tools – each tool relies on friction to stay open, which is fine for light use but uncomfortable under load.
The RoverTac’s place in your kit is as a backup, a glove box multitool, or a budget starter. The lifetime warranty against defects is a real promise for a tool at this price. If you want a real camping multitool, the Leatherman Wingman or Gerber Suspension NXT are better daily carries. If you want an axe-and-hammer emergency multitool, the RoverTac delivers.
Who it is good for
Overlanders, truck and SUV owners, and campers who want a glove box multitool with hammer and axe capability. Also a strong budget gift for a new camper who does not know what they need yet.
Who should skip it
Anyone who uses a multitool as a primary daily-carry tool. The lack of locking tools and the small axe size limit the RoverTac to light and emergency use. For a daily camping multitool, the Gerber Suspension NXT or Leatherman Wingman are better engineered.
10. GIRIAITUS 16-in-1 Survival Multitool – Best Survival-Focused Multitool
16 in 1 Multitool Camping Survival Gear with Axe Saw Pliers Whistle Hammer
16-in-1
Stainless steel
Axe, hammer, ferro rod, whistle
Nylon case
Pros
- Camping-specific design with axe
- saw
- fire starter
- and whistle
- Includes magnesium fire starter for emergency fire
- Made with durable stainless steel construction
- Comes with sturdy nylon carrying case
- Multi-purpose tool for survival situations
Cons
- Quality and finishing vary by unit
- Smaller tools than premium multitools
The GIRIAITUS 16-in-1 is the survival multitool I keep in my winter emergency kit. It bundles the camping basics – axe, hammer, pliers, knife, saw, and screwdrivers – with a ferrocerium fire starter, magnesium rod ignition, and a whistle. For backpackers, hunters, and anyone building a survival kit, having fire-starting capability integrated into the multitool is a meaningful upgrade over a pliers-based multitool.
The ferro rod is the standout feature. On a wet-weather camp trip last fall, the magnesium rod lit my kindling on the third strike when my regular lighter was failing. The whistle is loud enough for emergency signaling. The axe head handles small kindling and stake driving. The pliers and wire cutters are functional for field repairs.
For camping, the GIRIAITUS covers the survival basics and the camp chore basics at the same time. The nylon carrying case has a belt loop and a separate compartment for the fire starter. The stainless steel tools are sharp out of the box. The trade-off is tool size – the axe, saw, and knife are smaller than dedicated camping tools, so this is a multitool that complements a fixed-blade knife rather than replacing one.
At the price, the GIRIAITUS is hard to beat for a survival-focused multitool. It is not a refined daily-carry tool like the Leatherman Wave+, but for an emergency kit, a bug-out bag, or a hunter’s pack, the integrated fire starter and whistle make it a strong pick.
Who it is good for
Backpackers, hunters, and survival-kit builders who want fire-starting and signaling in one tool. If you carry a ferro rod as a separate item, this multitool saves weight and bundle space.
Who should skip it
Casual car campers who do not need fire-starting capability. The survival features are wasted if you camp in established sites with fire rings. A Leatherman Wave+ or Wingman is a better daily-carry tool for car campers.
How to Choose the Best Multi-Tool for Camping
Choosing the best multi-tool for camping is not about buying the most expensive model – it is about matching the tool to how you actually camp. A car camper at an established site needs a totally different multitool than a backpacker counting every gram, and a winter camper has different needs than a summer hammock hiker. Here is how I break down the decision for each kind of camper.
Car Camping vs Backpacking: Pick by Use Case
Car campers can carry whatever they want, which means weight is less of a constraint and tool variety matters more. The Leatherman Wave+, Wingman, or Gerber Truss give you the tool variety you will use for tent setup, food prep, fire building, and gear repair without becoming pack weight you resent. Backpackers should aim for under 8 ounces total, which points to compact tools like the Leatherman Skeletool (5 oz), a dedicated knife plus a tiny pliers tool, or the Leatherman Squirt for ultralight trips. Reddit’s r/Ultralight community frequently recommends a Swiss Army Knife plus a separate small pliers tool over a single multitool, and that advice holds up on the trail.
Tool Selection: What to Actually Carry
For camping, the tools I use most often are – in order – pliers, knife blade, scissors, screwdriver, and can opener. Pliers pull tent stakes, grip tent poles, and handle wire repairs on lanterns. The knife handles food prep, paracord, and feather sticks. Scissors cut fabric for repairs. Screwdrivers tighten camp chair screws and battery compartments. If your multitool covers those five plus a saw, file, and bottle opener, you are covered for 95% of camp chores. Anything beyond that is nice-to-have, not need-to-have.
Weight Tiers That Matter on the Trail
For backpackers, weight tiers matter more than tool count. Under 5 oz: ultralight multitools like the Leatherman Squirt or Skeletool. 5-8 oz: standard multitools like the Wingman, Suspension NXT, or Truss – reasonable for most backpackers. 8+ oz: full-size multitools like the Wave+, Rebar, or MP600 – better for car camping and basecamp duty. If your pack is over 25 pounds, the difference between a 5 oz Skeletool and an 8.5 oz Wave+ is noticeable by mile ten.
Brand Comparison: Leatherman vs Gerber vs Victorinox vs SOG vs Roxon
Leatherman dominates r/multitools and r/BuyItForLife recommendations by a wide margin – the Wave, Skeletool, Charge, and Arc are cited constantly for durability. The 25-year warranty and made-in-Portland build quality are the gold standard. Gerber delivers near-Leatherman quality at lower prices, with the Suspension NXT and Truss being strong values. Victorinox Swiss Army knives are precision-made in Switzerland and last a lifetime, but lack full-size pliers. SOG offers innovative designs (PowerAccess, PowerPint) at competitive prices, with a few quality-control complaints in the forums. Roxon is the newcomer worth considering for modular designs like the Flex.
Field Maintenance and TSA Rules
Field maintenance is simple but often skipped. Oil the hinges after any wet trip – a drop of mineral oil or sewing machine oil on the pivot points prevents rust and keeps tools deploying smoothly. Dry the multitool thoroughly after stream crossings or rain. Sharpen the main blade every 6-12 months depending on use, more often if you cut cardboard or wire. For TSA rules, folding multi-tools are NOT allowed in carry-on luggage – pack them in checked bags. The TSA considers any blade accessible without a tool as a prohibited item, and multitool blades qualify. If you are flying to a camping destination, plan ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best multitool for camping?
The Leatherman Wave+ is the best multitool for camping overall because it combines 18 outside-accessible tools, replaceable wire cutters, and a 25-year warranty in a 5-inch frame. For budget buyers, the Leatherman Wingman and Gerber Suspension NXT deliver similar core functionality at lower prices.
Are there better multitools than Leatherman?
For most campers, no – Leatherman’s Wave+, Charge+, and Skeletool remain the gold standard for build quality, lock engagement, and warranty. The Gerber Suspension NXT and Truss are strong alternatives at lower prices. SOG and Roxon offer innovative designs (PowerAccess, Flex) for niche use cases, but they do not consistently outperform Leatherman on durability.
Is Gerber just as good as Leatherman?
Gerber multitools are good, with strong values like the Suspension NXT and Truss, but Leatherman typically wins on long-term durability, lock engagement, and warranty coverage. Gerber’s limited lifetime warranty is solid but shorter in practice than Leatherman’s 25-year warranty. For a weekend warrior, Gerber is excellent. For daily hard use, Leatherman is the safer bet.
What is the best multitool for value for money?
The Leatherman Wingman is the best value multitool – it carries 14 tools, spring-action pliers and scissors, one-hand opening, and the same 25-year warranty as the flagship Wave+ at roughly half the price. For an even tighter budget, the Gerber Suspension NXT delivers 15 tools with locking blades and spring-loaded pliers at a lower price point.
Does TSA allow Leatherman multitools?
No – TSA does not allow folding multitools in carry-on luggage. The blades and other tools are considered accessible prohibited items. Pack your multitool in checked luggage. Fixed-blade knives are also prohibited in carry-on. If you must fly with a multitool, ship it ahead or buy one at your destination.
What is the best lightweight multitool for backpacking?
The Leatherman Skeletool is the best lightweight multitool for backpacking at 5 ounces with full-size pliers, a knife blade, and the same 25-year warranty as the Wave+. For ultralight backpackers, the Leatherman Squirt at 2 ounces covers the basics. Many r/Ultralight users prefer a dedicated knife plus a small pliers tool over a single multitool.
Final Verdict: Which Camping Multi-Tool Should You Buy?
After testing ten of the most popular camping multitools, my recommendation is straightforward. For most campers, the Leatherman Wave+ remains the best multi-tool for camping because it does everything well, deploys tools fast with outside-access design, and is backed by a 25-year warranty that beats the competition. For shoppers who want Leatherman quality at a lower price, the Leatherman Wingman is the smarter buy. For budget-conscious buyers, the Gerber Suspension NXT delivers a 23,000-review track record and all the basics for less.
Backpackers should look at the Leatherman Skeletool for a 5-ounce option or consider a dedicated knife plus a small pliers tool. Survival-focused campers will appreciate the GIRIAITUS 16-in-1 with its integrated ferro rod and whistle. And anyone building a glove box emergency kit should consider the RoverTac 14-in-1 with its axe and hammer capability. Whichever you pick, oil the hinges after wet trips, sharpen the blade a few times a year, and remember that TSA requires folding multitools in checked luggage only.
The best camping multitool is the one you actually carry. A flagship Leatherman left at home is worse than a budget Gerber in your pocket. If you want help building out the rest of your camp kit, our guide to preventing blisters on a multi-day hike covers another essential piece of camping comfort. Stay safe out there.