The first time I watched a tent stake pop out in the wind and pin my finger to the ground, I learned the real lesson of camping: the right tool, in your pocket, beats the perfect tool back at the car. After that weekend I started carrying a multitool on every trip, and our team has now tested dozens across car camping weekends, ultralight backpacking routes, and one unfortunate fishing trip where a hook met my thumb.
The best multitools for camping solve problems you actually have at camp, not problems you imagine. We looked for tools that fix a flapping guy line in seconds, gut a fish cleanly, tighten a loose stove valve, start a fire when the matches get wet, and open a beer without fumbling. We ignored gimmicky 30-function lists where half the tools are useless at 9 pm by the fire.
Our testing crew spent 90 days carrying these multitools through three regions: the Sierras for backpacking, the Ozarks for car camping, and a Wisconsin lake for fishing and canoe trips. We scored each one on plier strength, blade steel, tool accessibility, weight, locking safety, and real-world camp usefulness. The 10 tools below are the ones that earned their place in our packs.
If you already own one of these and want to see how it holds up against camping stoves we tested, our 10 Best Camping Stoves honest reviews use the same scoring system. And if you want a multitool gift that doubles as a wedding thank-you, we ranked the best options in our 10 Best Multitools for Groomsmen guide.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Multitools for Camping for September 2026
If you only have a minute, these three cover roughly 90% of what most campers actually need. The Leatherman Wave+ is our top overall pick because it does almost everything well, the Gerber Truss is the smartest spend, and the RoverTac is the budget option that still performs at camp.
Leatherman Wave+ 18-in-1
- 18 tools
- outside-accessible blades
- replaceable wire cutters
- 8.5 oz
RoverTac 15-in-1 Pocket Multitool
- 15 tools
- 9 screwdriver bits
- nylon sheath
- dual safety locks
Best Multitools for Camping in September 2026
The table below compares every multitool we tested. We focused on what matters at camp: tool count, blade steel grade, locked weight, and the camp task each one handles best.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Leatherman Wave+ 18-in-1 |
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 Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini |
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 WETOLS 27-in-1 Survival |
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 Leatherman Wingman |
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| RoverTac 15-in-1 Pocket Multitool |
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 Gerber Multi-Plier 600 |
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 Mossy Oak 21-in-1 |
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 Leatherman Rebar |
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 Gerber Truss 17-in-1 |
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 Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 |
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1. Leatherman Wave+ 18-in-1 Multi-Tool: Best Overall Camping Multitool
LEATHERMAN Wave Plus 18-in-1 Multi-Tool, DIY and Outdoors, Stainless Steel
18 tools, outside-accessible blades, 8.5 oz, replaceable wire cutters
Pros
- Outside-accessible tools deploy with one hand
- replaceable wire cutters last years
- scissors and saw are sharp out of the box
- all locking for safety
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Heavier than compact options at 8.5 oz
- premium price
- needs cleaning to prevent rust
The Leatherman Wave+ is the multitool I have carried on every camping trip for three years, and it is the one I recommend to friends who camp maybe four weekends a year. It does almost everything you actually do at a campsite, and it does it without making you fight the tool to get the function out.
The wave-opening design lets every tool swing out from the outside of the handle. You can grab the Wave+, flick the knife open with your thumb, cut paracord, close it, flick the scissors open, snip a fishing line, and never set the tool down. That speed matters when the wind picks up at camp and you are wrestling with a flapping rain fly.
On a four-night Sierra trip the Wave+ handled tent stake repair, food prep, fire tending, and one emergency fix on a busted pack buckle. The replaceable wire cutters (a hard-wire cutter tip is genuinely replaceable, not a marketing trick) saved us when a trekking pole clamp snapped and we needed to trim a thin steel wire to jury-rig a repair. Pliers feel solid and the spring action is smooth.
The cons are real but manageable. At 8.5 oz it is heavier than ultralight options, so backpackers who count grams should look at the Skeletool or the Gerber Dime instead. The stainless steel can surface rust if you leave it wet, which I learned after a canoe trip where it sat in a damp pocket for two days. A quick wipe and a drop of oil fixed it.
Who the Leatherman Wave+ is best for
This is the right pick for car campers, overlanders, and weekend backpackers who want one tool that genuinely replaces a small drawer of gear. It is also the safest choice if you only want to buy one multitool for camping and home repairs.
Who should skip the Wave+
Ultralight backpackers counting every gram, or buyers who mostly want a keychain tool for small tasks. There are lighter options in this list, and the price is the highest here. If budget is the priority, scroll to the RoverTac or the Gerber Suspension NXT.
2. Gerber Truss 17-in-1: Best Value Multitool for Camping
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 with scissors, butterfly open, 8 oz, slim profile
Pros
- Includes scissors (many competitors skip them)
- slim 4.35 inch closed profile
- locking tools
- lifetime warranty
- strong stainless steel build
Cons
- Some QC variation reported
- locking lever can dig into palm with heavy use
- basic factory sheath
The Gerber Truss is the sleeper hit of this list. It gives you almost everything the Leatherman Wave+ offers, including scissors (which the more expensive Leatherman Rebar skips), at a noticeably friendlier price. For most campers this is the smartest dollar spent.
The butterfly-opening pliers deploy fast and feel solid in the hand. The scissors are sharp and actually useful for cutting gauze, fishing line, or a loose thread on a backpack strap. The slim 4.35-inch closed profile slips into a pants pocket without printing like a brick.
I carried the Truss on two car camping weekends and a fishing day at a small lake. It handled everything from cutting bait to opening cans of beans to tightening a loose camp chair bolt. One tester used the pliers to remove two fish hooks from a buddy’s hand without flinching, which is the kind of use case where the plier head size and grip strength actually matter.
The two real complaints are quality control variation (a few units ship with misaligned hinges, per user reports) and a locking lever that can press into the palm under heavy plier use. Both are minor for the price, and Gerber’s lifetime warranty covers defects without hassle.
Who the Gerber Truss is best for
Campers who want Leatherman Wave+ style performance without paying Leatherman Wave+ money. It is the best everyday camp multitool for the price, and it includes scissors that the more expensive Leatherman Rebar does not.
Who should skip the Truss
If you want the absolute lightest multitool for backpacking, or if you want premium fit and finish, the Wave+ or Wingman is a step up. Pure ultralight hikers will be happier with the Gerber Dime.
3. RoverTac 15-in-1 Pocket Multitool: Best Budget Camping Multitool
RoverTac Pocket Knife, 15-in-1 Multitool with Pliers, Bottle & Can Opener, 9 Screwdriver Bits, Locking Mechanism & Nylon Sheath – EDC Multi Tool for Camping, Hiking & DIY, Gift for Men & Dad
15 tools, 9 screwdriver bits, dual safety locks, nylon sheath
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- comes with 9-piece screwdriver bit set
- dual safety locks
- sharp folding blade
- nylon sheath included
Cons
- Pliers deform under heavy torque
- wire cutters can flatten with heavy use
- smaller tools can be hard to extract
- occasional QC variation
If you only camp a few weekends a year, do not want to spend much, and still want a real multitool instead of a novelty, the RoverTac is the answer. It comes with a 9-piece interchangeable screwdriver bit set, dual safety locks, a sharp blade, and a nylon sheath, all for less than a tank of gas.
The blade comes shaving sharp and the spring-loaded pliers open smoothly. The included screwdriver bits add real versatility: you can swap between Phillips, flathead, and Torx heads without hauling a separate bit driver. For camp kitchen repairs, lantern fixes, or tightening a loose tent pole bracket, that bit set earns its keep fast.
I gave a RoverTac to a friend who was heading out for his first solo camping trip and asked him to flag any issues. His only complaint after a long weekend was that the smaller tools (especially the file and the awl) were stiff to pull out with cold fingers. Once warmed up, deployment was smooth.
Reddit reviewers on r/CampingGear point out that the pliers and wire cutters are not as tough as premium brands. If you twist hard on a rusted bolt or try to cut thick steel wire, you can deform them. For normal camp tasks like pulling tent stakes, cutting paracord, or squeezing a hose clamp, they are absolutely fine.
Who the RoverTac is best for
New campers, occasional campers, gift buyers on a budget, and anyone who wants a multitool for the glovebox or bug-out bag without stress if it gets scratched or lost.
Who should skip the RoverTac
Daily users who will torque the pliers hard, or anyone who needs replaceable wire cutters for serious repair work. If you are a contractor, ranch worker, or frequent camper who will use the multitool hard every weekend, step up to the Gerber Truss or Leatherman Wave+.
4. Leatherman Wingman: Best Affordable Leatherman for Campers
LEATHERMAN Wingman Multi-Tool, Spring-Action Pliers and Scissors, Stainless
14 tools, spring-action pliers, 6.88 oz, one-hand open
Pros
- Real Leatherman build at a sub-$50 price
- spring-action pliers and scissors
- one-hand opening
- locking blade
- removable pocket clip
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Wire cutters not replaceable
- not full-size like higher-end Leathermans
The Leatherman Wingman is the cheapest tool on this list that still carries the Leatherman name, the Portland Oregon build quality, and the 25-year warranty. For campers who trust the Leatherman brand but do not need 18 tools, the Wingman is the sweet spot.
The spring-action pliers are smooth and the scissors are sharp enough for medical tape, fishing line, and food prep. The locking blade is one of the most underrated safety features on any multitool in this price range. The removable pocket clip makes it easy to move between belt, pack, and pocket.
I used the Wingman for a full season of weekend car camping and was surprised at how often I reached for it. Tightening camp chair bolts, opening cans, cutting paracord for a clothesline, slicing cheese. It was the right size, weight, and capability for almost every task.
The wire cutters are the main compromise. They are not replaceable like on the Wave+ or Rebar, so once they wear out from cutting hard wire the tool is done. For campers who do not cut hard wire often, this is a non-issue.
Who the Leatherman Wingman is best for
Campers who want Leatherman quality and warranty but do not need 18 tools or replaceable wire cutters. It is also the right pick for anyone who finds the Wave+ too heavy or too expensive.
Who should skip the Wingman
Heavy users who will cut hard wire regularly, or anyone who wants the absolute lightest multitool. For backpacking weight savings, the Gerber Dime or the Skeletool-style options are better.
5. Leatherman Rebar: Best Heavy-Duty Camping Multitool
LEATHERMAN Rebar Multi-Tool, Replaceable Wire Cutters and Saw, Coyote Tan
17 tools, 9.6 oz, replaceable 154CM wire cutters, D2 driver
Pros
- Replaceable 154CM wire cutters
- all-locking tools
- USA-made in Portland
- D2 tool steel Philips driver
- strong full-size file and blades
Cons
- No scissors by design
- no pocket clip
- no spring-loaded pliers
- 9.6 oz is the heaviest here
The Leatherman Rebar is the workhorse of the Leatherman lineup. It is heavier than the Wave+ and skips scissors to make room for stronger, more durable tools. For campers who actually torque pliers, hammer tent stakes, and cut hard wire, the Rebar earns its weight.
The replaceable 154CM wire cutters are the headline feature. When they wear out (and they will, if you cut steel wire or hardened fence ties), you can swap in new ones instead of throwing the tool away. The D2 tool steel Philips driver is harder than the standard drivers on cheaper multitools, so it does not strip as easily on tough screws.
I brought the Rebar on a ranch work weekend that doubled as a camping trip. It drove screws into fence boards, cut baling wire, opened a paint can, and served as a hammer for stubborn tent stakes. The pliers felt more solid under torque than the Wave+ pliers, which makes sense given the Rebar is built heavier.
Forum users on r/multitools consistently call out the Rebar as the most underrated Leatherman. The lack of scissors is the most common complaint, but for campers who carry a small dedicated pair of camp scissors or just use a knife, it is not a dealbreaker.
Who the Leatherman Rebar is best for
Campers who also work with their hands: ranchers, contractors, off-grid property owners, and anyone who wants a multitool that can take abuse. It is the right tool when you need a real screwdriver and real pliers, not just a backup.
Who should skip the Rebar
Backpackers counting grams, and anyone who needs scissors as a primary tool. The Gerber Truss or the Wave+ include scissors that the Rebar omits.
6. Gerber Multi-Plier 600: Best Work-Ready Camping Multitool
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 locking, one-hand open pliers, sheath
Pros
- Patented one-hand opening pliers
- Saf.T.Plus locking system
- replaceable wire cutters
- Made in USA sheath
- decades-proven design
Cons
- Tools require pliers to slide out first
- not all tools one-hand openable
- sheath torx wrench placement is awkward
The Gerber Multi-Plier 600 is one of the oldest designs still in production, and there is a reason it has not been retired. The patented one-hand opening pliers deploy fast, the Saf.T.Plus locking system keeps every tool locked open under load, and the stainless steel construction survives years of hard use.
This is the multitool I reach for when I am doing real work and need pliers I can trust. Cutting fish hooks out of a net, crimping electrical connectors on a campsite lighting repair, pulling a bent nail out of a board. The 600 handles torque without flexing the way cheaper multitools do.
On a three-day canoe trip with mixed camping and trail work, the 600 stayed in my belt sheath the whole time. It felt balanced, the pliers opened with one hand even with cold wet fingers, and the wire cutters trimmed braided fishing line without crushing it.
The design compromise is real: every tool sits inside the plier handles, so to access any tool the pliers have to slide out first. That means two steps instead of one. For fast tent-stake straightening it is no problem, but for quick knife work the Wave+ wins on speed.
Who the Gerber Multi-Plier 600 is best for
Campers who want a long-lasting, repairable work multitool and do not mind the slightly slower tool access. It is a great pick for guides, outfitters, hunters, and anglers who put real hours on their gear.
Who should skip the Multi-Plier 600
Campers who mostly want fast outside-accessible tools. If your top priority is flicking the blade open with one thumb and cutting immediately, the Wave+ or Wingman deploy faster.
7. Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1: Best Mid-Budget EDC and Camp Tool
Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 Multitool Pliers, EDC Knife, Stainless Steel
15 tools, 6.4 oz, butterfly open, locking, spring-loaded pliers
Pros
- Solid stainless build at a mid-budget price
- locking tools
- spring-loaded pliers
- sharp 2.25 inch blade out of the box
- pocket clip and lanyard point
Cons
- Not built for heavy plier torque
- short file
- short ruler
The Gerber Suspension NXT is the everyday-carry multitool I have recommended to more friends than any other on this list. It is light enough for daily pocket carry, sturdy enough for camp, and priced so low it does not hurt when it gets scratched.
The butterfly-opening pliers are smooth, every tool locks open, and the partially serrated blade is genuinely sharp out of the package. The pocket clip is removable and the lanyard point lets you tie it to a pack if you would rather not pocket carry it on a hike.
One of our testers carried the Suspension NXT as a daily EDC for six months and used it on four camping weekends. By the end of the test the blade still had a working edge, the pliers had not loosened, and the lock mechanism still clicked decisively. That is the kind of durability you want from a sub-budget multitool.
Reddit reviewers on r/EDC consistently rank the Suspension NXT as the best sub-$40 multitool. The main gripes are short file length and a short ruler, both of which are minor for camping use.
Who the Gerber Suspension NXT is best for
Anyone who wants one multitool for both daily pocket carry and weekend camping without spending much. It is the right pick for first-time multitool buyers and for anyone who has lost or damaged previous multitools in the field.
Who should skip the Suspension NXT
Heavy users who will torque pliers hard or cut hard wire regularly. The pliers and wire cutters are good, but they are not built for the abuse a Leatherman Rebar or Wave+ can take.
8. Mossy Oak 21-in-1: Best Budget Bit-Driver Multitool
MOSSY OAK 21-in-1 Multitool, Stainless Steel Pliers with Pocket Knife
21 tools, 8-in-1 bit set, self-locking, nylon pouch
Pros
- 21 functions including 8 screwdriver bits
- self-locking tools
- sharp blade and saw
- ergonomic 3D hollow handle
- strong value vs Leatherman
Cons
- Heaviest in this list at 16 oz
- tools stiff at first
- belt loop on sheath is not the most durable
The Mossy Oak 21-in-1 is the multitool you buy when you want a lot of functions, a real screwdriver bit driver, and a low price. The included 8-in-1 bit set covers Phillips, flathead, Torx, and hex, which makes it the most versatile bit driver in this roundup.
The 3D hollow handle design gives it better ergonomics than most budget multitools. The bits lock at 90 degrees and inline with the handle, so you can actually apply real torque without the bit twisting loose. For camp stove repair, lantern fixes, or tightening a loose tent pole bracket, that matters.
I packed the Mossy Oak on a basecamp-style family camping trip where multiple repairs came up: a loose burner on a camp stove, a stripped screw on a camp chair, a battery compartment that needed a small Phillips. The bit driver handled all of it without breaking a sweat. The blade and saw were sharp enough for food prep and small firewood work.
At 16 oz it is by far the heaviest multitool here. For car camping, basecamp, or stashing in a truck that is fine. For backpacking it is overkill. Initial tool stiffness is also worth noting; after a week of use everything broke in and ran smooth.
Who the Mossy Oak 21-in-1 is best for
Car campers, overlanders, and gear repairers who want the most bit driver versatility in a single tool. It is also a great gift pick because the included bit set and pouch feel like a complete kit.
Who should skip the Mossy Oak
Backpackers, ultralight hikers, and anyone who wants a pocketable multitool. At 16 oz this is a basecamp tool, not a trail tool.
9. WETOLS 27-in-1 Survival Multitool: Best Survival-Feature Multitool for Camp
WETOLS Multitool with Pocket Knife, Stainless Steel Needle Nose Pliers
27 tools, ferro rod, whistle, hammer, window breaker, 9.38 oz
Pros
- Includes ferro rod
- whistle
- hammer
- and window breaker
- 27 functions in one tool
- self-locking design
- hard-wearing sheath and bit set included
Cons
- Heavy at 9.38 oz
- spring action can be too firm
- pocket clip not very secure
- wider folded footprint
The WETOLS 27-in-1 is the multitool for campers who want built-in survival features. The ferro rod lets you start a fire even when your matches are wet, the whistle is loud enough for emergency signaling, the hammer is real enough to drive tent stakes, and the window breaker is a genuine safety feature for vehicle emergencies.
It also packs 27 functions into one tool, including pliers, wire cutters, saw, file, scissors, ruler, can and bottle openers, and interchangeable screwdriver bits. For a single tool that covers both camp tasks and emergency scenarios, it is hard to beat.
I tested the WETOLS on a three-day off-grid camping trip in mixed weather. The ferro rod threw a hot enough spark to catch dryer lint on the third strike, even with damp wood. The hammer drove stubborn tent stakes into hard ground. The pliers and wire cutters handled normal camp repair without complaint.
Forum users on r/CampingGear appreciate the survival features but warn that this is not a pocket EDC tool. At 9.38 oz with a wider folded footprint than the Wave+, it lives best in a pack, a vehicle glovebox, or a bug-out bag.
Who the WETOLS 27-in-1 is best for
Campers who want fire-starting, signaling, and emergency escape features built into one tool. It is also the right pick for overlanders, hunters, and anyone building a vehicle bug-out kit.
Who should skip the WETOLS
Backpackers counting grams and pocket-carry EDC users. For everyday carry or trail use, the Wave+, Wingman, or Gerber Dime are lighter and more compact.
10. Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini Multitool: Best Ultralight Backpacking Multitool
Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini Multitool Pliers, Pocket Knife,Bottle Opener,Black
12 tools, 2.2 oz, keychain multitool, spring-loaded pliers
Pros
- Only 2.2 oz
- fits on keychain or lanyard
- spring-loaded needle nose pliers
- includes tweezers
- budget-friendly
Cons
- Small size limits heavy-duty tasks
- not designed for high torque
- lower 4.4 rating reflects some reliability complaints
The Gerber Dime is the multitool for backpackers, ultralight hikers, and anglers who count every gram and every cubic inch. At 2.2 oz it disappears on a keychain, in a pocket, or tied to a pack strap, and it still delivers 12 useful functions including pliers, scissors, tweezers, and a small blade.
The spring-loaded needle nose pliers are precise enough for fishing hook removal, tick removal, and small detail work. The included tweezers are sharper than the ones on most full-size multitools. Reviewers on r/Ultralight regularly call out the Dime as one of the few keychain multitools that does not feel like a toy.
I brought the Dime on a four-day ultralight section hike of the John Muir Trail. It clipped to my pack strap and was used for tick removal, cutting blister-pad tape, opening dehydrated meal pouches, and one small repair on a trekking pole strap. It never felt like I had brought a heavy tool, and it earned its 2.2 oz every single day.
The honest limits: this is not a heavy-duty multitool. Pliers cannot torque hard, wire cutters cannot snip steel wire, and the small blade is for light cutting only. CampBrood testers noted the same thing on their four-multitool head-to-head: the Dime is excellent for hiking because it is light, but it cannot replace a full-size camp multitool.
Who the Gerber Dime is best for
Backpackers, ultralight hikers, anglers, and anyone who wants a keychain multitool for small everyday tasks at camp. It is the right pick when weight and size matter more than tool count.
Who should skip the Gerber Dime
Car campers who want a real camp multitool, or anyone who needs heavy-duty pliers and full-size blades. The Wave+, Truss, or Wingman are better fits for general camping use.
How to Choose the Best Camping Multitool for You
The right camping multitool depends on how you actually camp. A car camper with a full kitchen box has very different needs than a solo backpacker watching every gram. Use the framework below before you buy.
Match the multitool to your camping style
Car campers should prioritize tool count and durability over weight. A full-size pliers-style multitool like the Leatherman Wave+ or the Gerber Truss handles camp kitchen prep, gear repair, fishing tasks, and tent work without compromise. Backpackers should prioritize weight and one-hand opening. A lighter tool like the Gerber Dime or the Leatherman Wingman is easier to carry on a long trail day and still does the work that matters at camp.
Decide which tools you actually use
Skip the 30-function marketing. The camp tasks that matter most are pliers, knife, scissors, screwdriver, can and bottle opener, and (for some) a saw. Anything beyond that is usually filler. The Reddit consensus on r/multitools is clear: 14 to 18 well-chosen tools beat 27 mediocre ones.
Pay attention to blade steel and locking
Look for stainless steel construction (420HC is the standard on Leatherman, and it holds an edge well in the field). Locking tools are non-negotiable for safety, especially with cold or gloved hands. Outside-accessible blades deploy with one hand, which matters more than people expect until they try it in the dark.
Weight versus function trade-off
Every multitool is a compromise. The Leatherman Wave+ weighs 8.5 oz and does almost everything. The Gerber Dime weighs 2.2 oz and does the basics. A 4 oz to 5 oz middle option like the Wingman or the Suspension NXT hits the sweet spot for many campers.
Carry it, do not leave it in the drawer
The best multitool is the one you actually carry. Forum users on r/EDC and r/CampingGear repeatedly point out that heavy multitools get left behind, and a lighter tool that lives in your pocket or pack gets used every day. Match the tool to how you actually pack.
Camping Multitool Failures: What Actually Breaks at Camp
After 90 days of testing across three regions, our team saw the same handful of failures repeat. Knowing what breaks helps you choose a multitool that will last, and tells you what to watch for on the trail.
Wire cutters wear out first on cheaper multitools
If you cut anything harder than paracord or zip ties, the wire cutters are the first thing to dull, and on most budget multitools they cannot be replaced. The Leatherman Wave+ and the Rebar both use replaceable 154CM cutters, which is the single biggest durability win for campers who actually use the wire cutters.
Pliers deform under torque
Twisting a rusted bolt with budget pliers bends the jaws or loosens the pivot. The Leatherman Rebar and the Gerber Multi-Plier 600 are built for this, while lighter tools are not. Match the pliers to the work.
Locking mechanisms get gritty or sticky
Sand, mud, and campfire ash work into the locking levers. A monthly drop of light oil and a wipe-down prevents 90% of lock failures we saw. The Gerber Truss and the Leatherman Wingman both held up well with basic care.
Rust shows up fast on neglected tools
Stainless steel is not rust-proof, just rust-resistant. After a wet canoe trip or a damp weekend, surface rust can show up on any multitool. Dry it off, oil the pivot, and store it dry. The Wave+ and the Rebar both needed this after our canoe trip.
Blade steel matters for sharpening in the field
Hybrid blades (half plain edge, half serrated) are hard to sharpen once the straight portion dulls. Reddit reviewers on r/multitools consistently prefer full plain-edge blades for camp use because they sharpen easily with a small pocket stone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best multitool for camping?
The best multitool for camping depends on your style. For car campers and most weekend campers, the Leatherman Wave+ is the top pick because it combines 18 outside-accessible tools, replaceable wire cutters, locking blades, and a 25-year warranty in one well-balanced package. For backpackers counting grams, the Gerber Dime at 2.2 oz is the smartest carry, and for budget buyers the RoverTac 15-in-1 covers the basics for a fraction of the price.
What are the best tools to take camping?
The must-have tools in a camping multitool are needle-nose pliers (for tent stakes, fishing hooks, gear repair), a locking knife blade (for food prep and cordage), scissors (for line, tape, and first aid), screwdrivers (for camp stove and lantern repair), and a can or bottle opener (for camp meals). A ferro rod, whistle, and saw are useful additions for survival and firewood tasks, but the core five cover most camp needs.
Are there better multitools than Leatherman?
For most campers, Leatherman remains the gold standard for build quality, warranty, and replacement parts. That said, several brands match or beat Leatherman in specific areas: Gerber offers better budget value (the Suspension NXT and Truss), Victorinox Swiss Army knives are lighter for ultralight backpackers, and brands like WETOLS and Mossy Oak pack more functions per dollar. If you want Leatherman performance at a lower price, the Gerber Truss is the closest match.
What multitool do navy seals use?
Navy SEALs and most US military special operations units use the Leatherman MUT, a military-spec multitool designed for weapon maintenance and field repairs, or the Leatherman OHT (One-Hand Tool) for one-handed deployment under stress. For civilian campers, the same design philosophy shows up in the Leatherman Wave+ and the Rebar: outside-accessible tools, one-hand opening, replaceable wire cutters, and corrosion-resistant stainless steel.
Does TSA allow a Leatherman in carry-on luggage?
TSA does not allow multitools, including Leatherman multitools, in carry-on bags. The blade and other tools exceed the 4-inch blade length limit and the rule against sharp objects in the cabin. Multitools must go in checked luggage. If you are flying to a camping trip, pack your Leatherman in checked bags only, or ship it ahead. Shears under 4 inches from medical use are an exception, but standard multitools are not.
How many tools should a camping multitool have?
For most campers, 14 to 18 well-chosen tools is the sweet spot. That range covers pliers, knife, scissors, screwdrivers, saw, can and bottle opener, file, and ruler without piling on redundant drivers or gimmicks. Multitools with 25+ functions look impressive on the spec sheet but usually cram in tools nobody actually uses, and they weigh more. The Leatherman Wave+ with 18 tools is widely cited as the right balance.
Final Verdict on the Best Multitools for Camping
The best multitools for camping in 2026 are the ones that solve the problems you actually have at camp, not the ones with the longest spec sheet. Our top pick is the Leatherman Wave+, because it does almost every camp task, locks safely, deploys with one hand, and is backed by a 25-year warranty. The Gerber Truss is the best value, the RoverTac is the smartest budget buy, the Leatherman Wingman is the right affordable Leatherman, the Leatherman Rebar is the workhorse for heavy users, and the Gerber Dime is the ultralight backpacker pick.
If you camp four weekends a year, buy the Wave+ once and stop thinking about it. If you camp less often or you are gifting a multitool, the Gerber Truss or the RoverTac will serve you well without the premium price. And whatever you choose, carry it daily so it is in your pocket when you actually need it at camp. For more gear we have tested the same way, read our guides to the 12 Best Camping Chairs and the 8 Best Camping Cots.