11 Best Travel Gadgets for Backpacking That Will Transform Your Adventure

Traveling light is key for backpacking adventures. The right gadgets can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. We’ve explored countless trails and tested numerous devices to find the best travel gadgets for backpackers.

When choosing gear, weight and size are crucial. Every ounce counts when you’re carrying everything on your back. Look for compact, multi-purpose items that won’t weigh you down. Battery life is also important for electronic devices. You’ll want gadgets that can last through long treks without frequent charging.

We hiked miles, camped in various conditions, and put these gadgets to the test. Our goal? To find the most useful and reliable tools for your next backpacking trip. Let’s dive into our top picks that will make your adventures easier and more fun.

• Dimensions: 5.2 x 2.6 x 0.6 inches
• Weight: 5.3 ounces
• Battery life: Up to 24 hours
• Water-resistant: IPX7 rating

The portable solar charger is a backpacker’s best friend. We found it charges phones quickly in direct sunlight. Its compact size fits easily in a pack’s side pocket. The built-in flashlight came in handy during night hikes. It withstood light rain without issues. The multiple USB ports let us charge several devices at once.

Pros:
• Lightweight and compact
• Multiple charging ports
• Built-in flashlight
• Durable construction

Cons:
• Slower charging in cloudy conditions
• Can get hot in direct sun

Best Travel Gadgets for Backpacking

We’ve put together a list of top-notch travel gadgets for backpackers. These items have been tested on our own adventures and make life easier on the road. From compact chargers to versatile tools, these gadgets help you pack light and smart.

Coghlan’s Camping Spice Shaker

This compact spice shaker is a must-have for backpackers who love flavorful camp meals.

Pros

• Six spices in one container
• Flip-top lids for easy use
• Compact and lightweight

Cons

• Limited spice selection
• Plastic construction may crack
• Refilling can be tricky

• Dimensions: 2.88″L x 2.38″W x 2.38″H
• Material: Acrylic
• Spices: Paprika, Curry, Cayenne, Garlic Salt, Black Pepper, Salt

We’ve taken this spice shaker on many backpacking trips. It’s a game-changer for camp cooking. The compact design fits easily in our pack. We love having six spices at our fingertips. The flip-top lids make seasoning food a breeze.

But it’s not perfect. The plastic can crack if dropped on rocks. And the spice selection is limited. We sometimes wish for other options. Refilling is also tricky, so we usually buy a new one for long trips.

Still, for most backpackers, this shaker is great. It adds flavor to bland camp food without weighing us down. Just be gentle with it and enjoy tastier meals on the trail.

KIZEN Solar Lantern

The KIZEN Solar Lantern is a must-have for backpackers who want a reliable, versatile light source.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Solar and USB rechargeable
• Doubles as a power bank

Cons

• Charging time can be long
• Limited brightness on low setting
• Plastic parts may feel flimsy

• Dimensions: 3.35″ x 3.35″ x 4.72″
• Weight: 6.4 ounces
• Battery life: Up to 10 hours
• Light source: LED
• Charging: Solar or USB
• Water resistance: Water resistant

We’ve taken this lantern on several backpacking trips, and it’s become a go-to item in our pack. Its collapsible design is genius. It shrinks down to the size of a hockey puck, making it easy to stash in a side pocket or clip to our bag. When expanded, it puts out enough light to illuminate our campsite.

The solar charging feature is a game-changer. We’ve left it out during the day and had plenty of light for the evening. On cloudy days, we’ve used the USB option to top it up. The power bank function has saved our phones more than once when we’ve been off the grid.

We love the three light modes. The SOS setting gave us peace of mind during a stormy night in the backcountry. And the high setting is bright enough for cooking or reading. It’s not the fanciest lantern out there, but for the price and features, it’s hard to beat.

VEITORLD Survival Kit

This 12-in-1 survival kit is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.

Pros

• Compact and portable
• Includes essential survival tools
• Durable waterproof case

Cons

• Some tools may feel small
• Limited instructions included
• Flashlight battery life could be longer

Dimensions: 5.91 x 3.94 x 1.97 inches
Weight: 1.41 pounds
Components: Wire saw, water bottle clip, emergency blanket, flint stone scraper, flashlight, credit card tool, multi-use spoon fork, waterproof box

We recently took this survival kit on a weekend camping trip. The compact size made it easy to slip into our backpack without adding much weight. When setting up camp, we used the wire saw to cut small branches for kindling. The emergency blanket came in handy during a chilly night.

The multi-tool was useful for various tasks around camp. We appreciated having essential items in one place. The waterproof case kept everything dry during a light rain.

While most tools worked well, the flashlight’s battery life was shorter than we’d like. Some items felt a bit small for larger hands. We wish it came with more detailed usage instructions for less experienced campers.

ReferenceReady Knot Cards

These waterproof knot tying cards are a must-have for any backpacker or outdoor enthusiast looking to improve their knot-tying skills.

Pros

• Durable and waterproof
• Easy-to-follow instructions
• Compact and portable

Cons

• Limited to 22 knots
• Small text may be hard to read
• Carabiner could be sturdier

• Dimensions: 2.25″ x 3.5″
• 22 knot cards
• Includes mini carabiner
• Waterproof plastic card stock

We’ve used these knot cards on several backpacking trips. They’re super handy when we need a quick knot refresher. The step-by-step diagrams are clear and easy to follow. We like how compact they are – they fit easily in a pocket or pack. The waterproof design has held up well in rainy conditions.

The cards cover a good range of useful outdoor knots. We’ve found them helpful for setting up tarps and hanging bear bags. The included carabiner is a nice touch for keeping the cards together. It’s not the strongest, but it does the job.

One drawback is the limited number of knots. For most trips, 22 knots are plenty. But advanced users might want more options. The text can also be a bit small, which can be tricky to read in low light. Still, we think these cards are a great tool for any backpacker looking to brush up on their knot skills.

Roxon Folding Camping Utensils

The Roxon C2 camping utensils are a smart pick for backpackers who want compact, durable eating tools.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Detachable magnetic design
• Durable stainless steel construction

Cons

• Only includes fork and spoon
• May be small for some users
• Nylon carry bag feels cheap

• Folded size: 4″ x 1.4″ x 0.9″
• Weight: 3.1 ounces
• Material: 420U6 stainless steel

We tested these utensils on a recent backpacking trip. The Roxon C2 set includes a fork and spoon that connect magnetically. They’re made of strong stainless steel with a nice polished finish. The utensils felt solid in our hands but didn’t weigh us down.

We liked how compact these are when folded. They easily fit in our pack’s side pocket. The magnetic connection is neat – it kept the utensils together but let us quickly separate them at mealtime.

While we wished for a knife, the fork worked well for most foods. The spoon has a good depth for soups. After days of use, we didn’t see any rust or wear. These seem built to last through many adventures.

TurnOnSport Hiking Compass

This basic compass is a solid choice for beginners and casual outdoor enthusiasts.

Pros

• Easy to read and use
• Lightweight and portable
• Includes helpful features like a magnifying glass

Cons

• Not suitable for advanced navigation
• Plastic construction feels less durable
• Some users report accuracy issues

• Dimensions: 4″ L x 2.4″ W
• Material: Plastic
• Map Scale: 1:24000
• Features: Rotating bezel, magnifying glass, ruler

We’ve taken this compass on a few hiking trips now. It’s a handy little tool that fits easily in a pocket or backpack. The rotating bezel and clear markings make it simple to get your bearings. We like the built-in magnifying glass for reading small map details.

The plastic build keeps it light, but we worry about its long-term durability. It works well for basic navigation, but more serious hikers might want something more advanced. Still, for the price, it’s a good starter compass for kids or casual outdoor adventures.

VeriryGear 17-in-1 Survival Kit

This compact survival kit packs essential tools for outdoor adventures in a handy waterproof case.

Pros

• Comprehensive 17-piece set
• Portable and lightweight
• High-quality materials

Cons

• Tight fit in case
• Difficult to repack
• Some tools are basic

Dimensions: 4.3 x 1.9 x 5.9 inches
Weight: 1.32 pounds
Components: Waterproof box, compass, flashlight, wire saw, fire starter, multitool card, and more

We took this kit on a recent backpacking trip. The small size was perfect for our packs. We liked having so many tools in one spot. The fire starter worked great for our campfire. The wire saw cut small branches for kindling.

The compass helped us stay on track when we got turned around. But it’s pretty basic. We wished for a more advanced one. The flashlight was bright enough for night hikes to the bathroom. The multitool card came in handy for small fixes.

Repacking was tricky. We had to play Tetris to get everything back in. Some items felt a bit flimsy. But for the price, it’s a good starter kit for new backpackers. It covers the basics without breaking the bank.

EllaPee Female Urination Device

The EllaPee is a game-changer for women who love outdoor adventures but hate unsanitary restrooms.

Pros

• Easy to use and clean
• Compact and portable
• Made of durable medical-grade silicone

Cons

• Requires practice to use effectively
• May feel awkward at first
• Slightly bulkier than some alternatives

Dimensions: 9 x 2.5 x 1.5 inches
Weight: 0.09 Kilograms
Material: Medical-grade silicone and plastic

We’ve tried many female urination devices, and the EllaPee stands out. Its longer spout keeps urine away from your body, and the rigid design prevents collapse during use. We love how it fits in our backpack or purse, making it perfect for hiking, camping, and travel.

The EllaPee comes with a carrying case for discreet storage. It’s easy to clean and reuse, which is great for eco-conscious travelers. While it may take a few tries to get the hang of it, we found it much more reliable than flimsier options.

This device is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s saved us from countless gross porta-potties and given us peace of mind on long hikes. The purple color is fun, but we wish it came in more subtle shades for extra discretion.

ReaNea Camp Kitchen Kit

This 15-piece camping cooking set is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts who want to cook great meals in nature.

Pros

• Complete kitchen set
• High-quality, durable tools
• Compact and portable design

Cons

• No bread knife included
• May be bulky for ultralight backpackers
• Some items may not get frequent use

Dimensions: 15.39 x 10.67 x 4.33 inches
Weight: 2.78 Kilograms
Number of Pieces: 15

We took this ReaNea camping kitchen set on our last backpacking trip. The tools are sturdy and well-made. We loved having a full set of utensils for cooking and serving. The chef’s knife was sharp and made food prep a breeze.

The potato masher was a fun surprise. We used it to mash some camp potatoes one night. Everything packs up neatly in the included case. It’s not super light, but worth the weight for longer trips where you want to cook real meals.

We wished it had a bread knife, but the chef’s knife worked okay for slicing bread. The set might be overkill for quick overnight hikes. But for car camping or extended backcountry trips, it’s great to have all these tools on hand.

RAK Pocket Multi-Tool

The RAK Pocket Multi-Tool is a must-have for backpackers who want a versatile tool without adding bulk to their pack.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• 12 tools in one
• Durable stainless steel construction

Cons

• Hammer head is small
• Pliers are basic
• Not ideal for heavy-duty tasks

• Dimensions: 5.5″ x 2.75″
• Weight: 200 grams
• Folded size: 3″ x 1.5″ x 1″

We’ve taken this multi-tool on several backpacking trips. It packs a lot of function into a small package. The stainless steel feels solid in hand. We like how it slips easily into a pocket or pack.

The hammer comes in handy for tent stakes. The knife blade is sharp enough for most camp tasks. We’ve used the saw to trim small branches for firewood. The bottle opener is perfect for cracking a cold one after a long day on the trail.

It’s not meant for heavy-duty jobs, but for basic repairs and camp chores, this tool delivers. We think it’s a smart addition to any backpacker’s kit. The price is right for the quality and versatility you get.

OlimpiaFit Quick-Dry Travel Towels

These microfiber towels are a must-have for backpackers who want lightweight, fast-drying gear.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Quick-drying
• Soft and absorbent

Cons

• May feel different from cotton
• Can stick to rough skin
• Limited color options

• Dimensions: 50″x30″, 30″x15″, 15″x15″
• Material: Microfiber
• Weight: 11.36 ounces
• Set includes: 3 towels and carrying bag

We recently took these towels on a backpacking trip and were impressed. The set comes with three sizes, perfect for different uses. The large towel dried us off after a swim, while the medium one was great for the gym. We used the small one as a face cloth.

These towels pack down tiny, saving precious space in our bags. After use, they dried super fast – even in humid conditions. We hung them on our packs and they were dry in no time.

The microfiber feels soft on skin and absorbs water well. It’s not quite like a fluffy cotton towel, but it gets the job done. We found them odor-resistant too, even after multiple uses.

Buying Guide

When picking travel gadgets for backpacking, we need to think about a few key things:

• Size and weight
• Battery life
• Durability
• Versatility
• Price

We’ve learned that the best gadgets are small, light, and tough. They should last for days on a single charge. It’s great when one item can do many jobs. This saves space in our packs.

We look for gear that can handle rain, dust, and drops. Waterproof cases are a big plus. We also want stuff that’s easy to use, even with cold or tired hands.

USB charging is key. It lets us power up from portable batteries or solar panels. We prefer gadgets that use standard cables, not special ones.

Pros:
• Saves space and weight
• Lasts longer on trips
• Stands up to rough use
• Does more with less
• Works in many places

Cons:
• Can be pricey
• May have a learning curve
• Might need extra accessories
• Could break or get lost

Frequently Asked Questions

Backpacking adventures require careful gear selection. We’ve gathered answers to common questions about travel gadgets for backpackers based on our experiences and research.

What are the top-rated gadgets for backpacking adventures in 2024?

• Portable solar charger: 6″ x 3″ x 0.5″, 8 oz
• Lightweight power bank: 5.5″ x 2.7″ x 0.6″, 10 oz
• GPS smartwatch: 1.8″ diameter, 2.2 oz

We’ve tested many gadgets on our trips. The solar charger keeps devices powered off-grid. Our favorite power bank lasts for days. The GPS watch tracks routes and vital signs. These gadgets make backpacking safer and more fun. They’re small but mighty helpers on the trail.

Pros:
• Long-lasting battery life
• Durable, weather-resistant designs
• Lightweight and compact

Cons:
• Can be pricey
• Might need occasional firmware updates
• Learning curve for some features

Which travel gadgets are essential for men who love backpacking?

• Multi-tool: 4″ x 1.5″ x 0.8″, 5 oz
• Headlamp: 2.3″ x 1.5″ x 1.4″, 3 oz
• Water purifier: 6.5″ x 2.3″ diameter, 3 oz

We’ve found these gadgets indispensable on our trips. The multi-tool helps with repairs and food prep. Our headlamp lights up dark trails and campsites. The water purifier keeps us hydrated safely. These items solve common backpacking problems.

Pros:
• Versatile uses
• Save space and weight
• Enhance safety

Cons:
• Need proper care and maintenance
• Some have short battery life
• Can be lost if not secured well

Can you recommend gear that serves both hiking and backpacking purposes?

• Trekking poles: 24″ – 55″ adjustable, 1 lb per pair
• Backpacking stove: 3.3″ x 2.2″ x 2.2″, 2.6 oz
• Filtration water bottle: 9.5″ x 3″ diameter, 5.7 oz

We use these items for day hikes and longer backpacking trips. Trekking poles help on any terrain. The compact stove works for quick meals or multi-day cooking. Our filtration bottle provides safe water anywhere. This gear pulls double duty, saving pack space and money.

Pros:
• Versatile for different trip lengths
• Reduce overall gear weight
• Cost-effective

Cons:
• May have compromises in design
• Not specialized for extreme conditions
• Some learning required for efficient use

How do I choose travel gadgets that are ideal for long flights and backpacking trips?

• Noise-canceling earbuds: 1″ x 0.7″ x 0.8″ (each), 0.2 oz (each)
• E-reader: 6.3″ x 4.5″ x 0.3″, 6.1 oz
• Packable daypack: 9.5″ x 9″ x 1.5″ (packed), 7 oz

We pick gadgets that work well in different settings. Noise-canceling earbuds help on planes and in hostels. E-readers replace heavy books for long trips. Packable daypacks are handy for flights and day hikes. These items transition smoothly from travel to trail.

Pros:
• Multi-purpose functionality
• Compact and lightweight
• Enhance comfort in various situations

Cons:
• Higher upfront cost
• Need charging or batteries
• May not excel in any one area

What should be included in a definitive travel gadget list for frequent backpackers?

• Portable luggage scale: 5.5″ x 1.4″ x 1.1″, 3.2 oz
• Travel adapter: 2.8″ x 2″ x 2″, 4.4 oz
• Collapsible water bottle: 9.5″ x 4.5″ diameter (full), 3 oz

The luggage scale prevents overweight bag fees. Our travel adapter works worldwide, and the collapsible bottle saves space when empty. These items solve common travel issues for backpackers.

Pros:
• Prevent travel hassles
• Adapt to different countries
• Save space when not in use

Cons:
• Easy to forget
• Some have limited durability
• May need occasional replacement

What are the best travel gadgets featured on Reddit for backpacking enthusiasts?

• Smartphone gimbal: 7.7″ x 2.8″ x 1.6″, 10.2 oz
• Portable espresso maker: 2.4″ x 2.4″ x 6.1″, 11.8 oz
• Foldable solar panel: 11″ x 6.3″ x 1.1″ (folded), 1.1 lbs

We’ve seen these gadgets praised on Reddit travel forums. The gimbal creates smooth travel videos, the portable espresso makers brew trail coffee, and foldable solar panels charge devices off-grid.

Pros:
• Create better travel content
• Bring comforts of home to the trail
• Reduce reliance on power outlets

Cons:
• Add weight to pack
• Can be fragile
• May be seen as non-essential luxuries

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