Camping Gear – small items

On our recent camping trip to Big Sur we came to the realization that there are a ton of small gadgets and useful tools that make our trip just a teensy bit better.  After setting up/tearing down countless camps, and spending multitudes of moonlit nights reading and laughing by a crackling fire, we have acquired a few “must-have” items that find their way into our packs for nearly every trip.

“Let there be light!”

Such profound words as any to be uttered…especially if it is cold, wet, windy, and camp still has to be set up.

Petzl Tikka and Tikka +

While I have the Petzl – TIKKA Headlamp 100 Lumens and Ellen uses the Petzl – TIKKA+ Headlamp 160 Lumens, Black they are largely the same headlamp, or “head torch” for our European readers.  Both are super reliable and have good battery life.  With two brightness modes and a single large button that is sensitive enough to be found through ski gloves on a midnight traverse.

The one point of difference does seem to be found in the option for a red light.  Sounds silly, but using a red light at night keeps your night vision sharp and also is less visible to others.  The latter may come in handy should your route cross not-so-public lands.

At $20-30 either is a solid option for any nighttime use.

*Note: extreme cold does affect battery life so bring an extra set and keep them warm if you plan on being out too long.

MPOWERD Luci Original Inflatable Solar Lantern –

This little gem was one of our favorite recent purchases.  At less than $15 it is a fully solar, fast charging light that weighs mere ounces.  Deflate it and strap it onto a pack to charge while hiking or just toss it up on the dashboard while driving up the coast.  On a full charge it provides bright light for 8hrs and is now our go to for tent/truck lighting when we bunk down for the night.

GE 8in LED light bar – With a few batteries and some velcro glued to the bottom this guy has been a great addition to our car camping set up.  Substantial battery life, high lumen output, and impressive cold tolerance, we have made many uses for this small 8in light bar.  *Unfortunately I did not find a link for this little guy but I believe it was a Walmart find.

PackIt Freezable Wine Cooler  – 

Ahh yes, how could we forget the essential wine cooler.  Being located in the central coast there is a tremendous amount of high quality, affordable wine to partake of.  Thanks to this handy little bag we can now enjoy our whites as well as the reds when camping on warm summer nights.

 

Leatherman – Wingman® Multi-Tool 

There is no limit to what this tool can do!  I believe this is the cheapest model Leatherman makes, but given its utility and likelihood of being lost I feel it is an appropriate investment.  No need for long-winded reviews here.  What you will get is a super reliable tool at an awesome price.

Call for comments:  Is there a piece of gear you cant live without? Let us know about it!  We are always looking for improvements!

 

Written by Stephen Stockhausen