18 unusual but practical items that will enhance your camping gear

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👉 The key facts from this guide

You know that, right? Your backpack is bulging like a fat molehill. And yet, you're always missing something.

Sure, tent, sleeping bag, stove - you can pack those in your sleep. But what about the really cool gadgets? The things that turn your camping life from "Darn, I miss my bed" to "Wow, this is great here!"?

I'll tell you what: There are 16 items that will catapult your camping gear from 0 to 100. And no, I'm not talking about a champagne cooler or an inflatable yacht.

These things are as practical as a Swiss Army knife. And just as unusual.

So, buckle up. Here comes your packing list for the next outdoor adventure.

1. Foldable Water Bottle: Your Luggage Helper with Thirst-Quenching Guarantee

Imagine you have a water bottle with you that behaves like a chameleon - when full, it's your loyal companion, when empty, it almost disappears invisibly in your backpack!

Doesn't that sound fantastic?

This is exactly the foldable water bottle. It is the secret star among camping gadgets. When you're thirsty, it's there for you, and when you don't need it, it folds down smaller than a handkerchief.

Why you need this thing:

1. Master of Space Saving: When folded empty, it takes up less space than your spare socks.
2. Featherweight: It weighs less than your good resolutions for next year.
3. Environmental Hero: Saves single-use plastic bottles. The trees will give you virtual high-fives!

Pro tip: Take two with you! One for water and one for your favorite drink. Or for chamomile tea if you need to calm down after a wild night by the campfire.

2. Compact Folding Shovel: Your Multifunctional Helper for All Situations

Who would have thought that a simple folding thing could revolutionize your camping life? The compact folding shovel is like the MacGyver among your camping utensils - versatile, robust, and always there when things get tricky.

But why on earth do I need a shovel when camping?

Oh, let me count:

1. Dig like a pro: From the fire pit to the… uh… emergency toilet (Read here: How to properly and sustainably go to the toilet in the forest).
2. Fire friend: Perfect for spreading embers or digging a fire pit.
3. Ice breaker: Your faithful companion against snow and ice in winter.
4. Self-defense: Against bears… well, not really in Germany.

Why this part might be useful:

• Space miracle: Folded up, it's as big as your favorite book.
• Weight: Weighs less than your guilt when you snuck the last marshmallow.
• Multitasking king: Shoveling, chopping, sawing - sometimes all in one tool!

Pro tip: Take care of your tool: Clean and dry after use. A rusty shovel is as useful as a chocolate hat in the sun.

3. Multifunctional Cord: The Invisible Hero of Your Camping Adventure

Imagine having a superhero in your backpack. One that can stretch, bind, hold, and even save your life in an emergency. Sounds like science fiction? Welcome to the world of the multifunctional cord!

But it's just a string, isn't it?

Oh my friend, that is like saying a Swiss Army knife is just a toothpick. This string is your…

• Clothes dryer: Hang your wet socks and let them dance in the wind.
• Tent and tarp improver: Stretch additional guy lines for storm-proof nights.
• Backpack extension: Attach gear outside when there's no more space inside.
• Emergency rope: For when you feel (or need to feel) like Indiana Jones.

Why this cord will become your new best friend:

1. Lightweight: Weighs less than your morning motivation for early exercise.
2. Space-saving: Rolls up smaller than your dignity when you step in dog poop while camping.
3. Versatile: Has more talents than a circus performer on coffee.

"I thought string was as exciting as tax returns. Until I used it to save my tent from a storm, dry my shoes, and make an improvised luggage rack - all in one day!" - Sarah, string enthusiast

Pro tip: Learn a few knots: With the right knots, your rope becomes a jack-of-all-trades. The square knot is your friend, the prusik knot your hero.

4. Foldable Cooler: Your Gourmet Restaurant in the Green

How about this: You open your backpack and bam - there's a whole cold storage inside! Okay, maybe not quite, but the foldable cooler box comes pretty close.

Wait a minute, a cooler that can be folded?

Yep, welcome to the future of camping luxury! This box (find some on Amazon here) is like the TARDIS from Doctor Who - unassuming on the outside, bigger on the inside than you think.

Why you will love this box:

1. Space saver deluxe: Folds flat when empty, flatter than your excuses for not jogging.
2. Cool master: Keeps your drinks cold and your chocolate firm - even when it's hotter outside than in the Sahara.
3. Weight wonder: Lighter than your guilty conscience after the third marshmallow.

Pro tips for cooler professionals:

• Pre-cooling is everything: Fill the box with ice packs the night before.
• Layer like a pro: Heavy and cold items at the bottom, light items on top.
• Airtight is cool: The less you open it, the longer it stays cold.

5. LED light with motion sensor: Your nocturnal guardian and trip hazard preventer

Imagine you have to step out of the tent at night. It's pitch dark and suddenly - click - bright light! No, you haven't been abducted by aliens. You just have the coolest camping gadget ever: An LED light with a motion sensor.

Why do I need a motion detector in the forest?

Oh, let me count:

1. Midnight Bathroom Breaks: Without tripping over roots or falling into holes.
2. Animal Alert: Warns you of nocturnal visitors (from curious raccoons to hungry neighbors).
3. Energy Saver: No accidentally leaving the flashlight on all night.

Why this light takes your camping game to the next level:

• Hands-free lighting: Your hands remain free for important things (like your cup of morning coffee).
• Battery saver: Only turns on when it's really necessary.
• Versatile use: On the tent, on the tree, or as an improvised disco ball (Hey, who says camping has to be boring?).

Pro tip: Place strategically: Align it so that it doesn't activate with every passing squirrel. Unless you want to host an animal disco.

6. Inflatable Camping Pillow: Your Ticket to Dreamland Under the Stars

Forget everything you've heard about uncomfortable nights in a tent. With an inflatable camping pillow, you can turn your sleeping bag into a 5-star suite (okay, maybe 3.5 stars, but hey, we're in the woods).

A pillow? Isn't that pure luxury?

Luxury? No - this is pure survival tactics for your neck and your mood the next morning!

Why this pillow will become your new camping friend:

1. Comfort King: Transforms hard ground into a cloud-soft surface for your royal head.
2. Space Ninja: Inflated a dream, deflated smaller than your smartphone.
3. Weight Wonder: Lighter than your morning grogginess without coffee.
4. Adaptation Artist: Firmness adjustable as desired - from marshmallow to wooden board.

"I always thought a true outdoor experience meant sleeping with roots in your back and a rock as a pillow. This inflatable pillow has taught me otherwise. Now I sleep like a baby… a very happy, outdoor-loving baby!" - Alex, converted hardcore camper

Pro tips for maximum pillow comfort:

• Inflation technique: Use several small breaths rather than one big one. Prevents dizziness and excessive saliva in the pillow.
• Dual use: Can be used as an emergency flotation device or improvised rain cover. (Let's hope it never comes to that!)
• Keep it clean: A damp cloth is usually sufficient. Your pillow will thank you with years of faithful service.

7. Waterproof Pack Sack with Viewing Window: Your Transparent Hero Against Chaos and Wetness

Imagine you could repel water like a duck feather coat and keep things organized like Marie Kondo. Sounds too good to be true? Welcome to the world of the waterproof dry bag with a viewing window!

A bag with a window? Am I in the camping store or the dollhouse?

Believe me, this bag is anything but a toy. It is your…

• Moisture Bodyguard: Keeps your stuff dry, even if you accidentally fall into a lake.
• Organization Genius: No more desperate rummaging for the last clean sock.
• Space Optimizer: Compresses your stuff as if you had a mini press with you (read here how to pack your backpack).

Why this stuff sack can improve your camping life:

1. Waterproof: Your belongings stay dry even if your tent turns into a swimming pool.
2. Transparent or with window: Find everything at a glance without unpacking the entire backpack.
3. Durable: Survives more adventures than your motivation for early morning hikes.
4. Versatile: Perfect for clothes, electronics, or as an improvised rain cover (in an emergency).

Pro tip: Color coding: Use different colors for different categories. Blue for clothing, red for electronics, green for snacks (the most important category, of course).

8. Foldable Water Canister: Your Flexible Thirst Quencher for Giants

Imagine this: What if you had a water supply that adapts to your needs like a chameleon. Sounds like science fiction? Welcome to the reality of the foldable water canister!

A canister that can be folded? Isn't that a contradiction in terms?

Oh, my thirsty friend, this is the future of water transportation! This canister is:

• The Shape-shifter: Full, a stately water tower; empty, flatter than your last excuse for not doing the dishes.
• The Back Saver: No more lugging around heavy, rigid containers.
• The Space Optimizer: Only takes up space when it's full - like a good guest.

Why this canister will become your new camping companion:

1. Capacity Marvel: Often holds several liters without overwhelming you.
2. Adaptable: Adapts to available space like a liquid metal Terminator.
3. Eco-Friendly: Saves single-use plastic bottles and protects Mother Nature.
4. Versatile: From drinking water supply to improvised shower.

Pro tips for canister pros:

9. Waterproof Document Bag: Your Paper Bodyguard Against Moisture and Chaos

Imagine you could protect your important documents as if they were in a mini fortress – waterproof, dustproof, and chaos-resistant. Sounds too good to be true? Welcome to the waterproof document bag!

Wait a minute, who takes documents camping?

Oh, you would be surprised! This bag is not just for bureaucracy junkies, but for anyone who:

• Wants to protect valuables: From passports to smartphones.
• Loves being organized: No more rummaging around for the campsite reservation.
• Wants to play it safe: Because Mother Nature can sometimes be really mean.

Why this bag will become your secret camping MVP:

1. Waterproof: Defies rain, splashes, and accidental drink spills.
2. Dust-resistant: Keeps sand, dirt, and curious insects away.
3. Transparent: Find everything at a glance without opening the bag.
4. Compact: Takes up hardly any space but offers maximum protection.

Pro tips for document ninjas:

• Color coding: Use different colors for different categories (e.g., red for emergency documents).
• Digital copies: Additionally, take photos of important documents – better safe than sorry!
• Think multifunctional: Perfect also for smartphone, power bank, or camera.

10. Portable Pressure Camping Shower: Your Mobile Spa in the Middle of Nowhere

Imagine you could take a refreshing shower after a sweaty day of hiking – right in the middle of the forest, without electricity, without running water. Sounds like a dream for campers? Welcome to the reality of the portable pressure camping shower!

A shower in the forest? Isn't that a bit over the top?

Oh, my dirty friend, this is pure camping quality of life! This shower is:

• Your personal refresher: Transforms you from a sweaty forest dweller back into a civilized human.
• The hygiene hero: Keeps odors in check and your tent mates in good spirits.
• The comfort bringer: Because even adventurers deserve a bit of luxury sometimes.

Why this shower will revolutionize your camping life:

1. Easy to use: Pump, aim, shower – cleanliness can be that simple.
2. Water-efficient: More cleanliness with less water than the traditional "river bath."
3. Versatile: From body cleaning to dishwashing.
4. Compact and lightweight: Takes up hardly any space in your luggage but brings tons of comfort.

Pro tips for outdoor spa enthusiasts:

• Harness solar heat: Leave the filled bag in the sun for a warm shower.
• Think multifunctional: Also great for cleaning equipment or as an emergency water supply.
• Create privacy: A hung cloth turns any place into a shower cabin.

11. Multifunctional Camping Cutlery: Your Swiss Army Knife for Outdoor Dining

Imagine you could fit an entire kitchen drawer into your pocket. Sounds impossible? Not with the multifunctional camping cutlery! It's like the Transformer of camping utensils.

A cutlery that can do more than just poke and cut?

Oh yes, my culinary camping friend! This marvel of engineering is:

• Your all-in-one eating helper: Spoon, fork, knife, and often much more in one.
• The can opener hero: No more fear of closed ravioli cans!
• The bottle opener buddy: Because even campers deserve a cold one sometimes.

Why this cutlery will become your new camping BFF:

1. Space saver deluxe: Everything you need for eating in a compact tool.
2. Robust like grandpa's old stories: Withstands more than your camping mood after three days of rain.
3. Versatile: From can opening to an improvised screwdriver.

"I thought camping food meant eating everything with your fingers or sharpening sticks." - Lisa, converted finger food fanatic

Pro tips for cutlery ninjas:

• Care is everything: Clean and dry well after use to prevent rust.
• Safety first: Ensure safe locking of tools, especially around children.

12. The Light King: Solar LED Light Chain for Magical Camping Nights

A solar LED light chain transforms your campsite into a fairy-tale world of lights – without any sockets or cable clutter.

Fairy lights while camping? Isn't that a bit tacky?

Oh, my groping-in-the-dark ranger, this is pure camping magic! This string of lights is:

• Your Mood Maker: Turns any campsite into a cozy outdoor lounge.
• The Battery Saver: Solar string lights charge during the day and shine all night.
• The Path Finder: Never trip over tent ropes again on your way to the midnight bathroom break.

Why this string of lights will brighten your camping life:

1. Eco-friendly: Uses solar energy instead of consuming batteries.
2. Lightweight: Weighs less than the worries you leave at home.
3. Versatile: From tent decorator to emergency light.
4. Weatherproof: Withstands rain and wind like a true outdoor pro.

Pro tips for light magicians:

• Strategically place: Around tents, trees, or as pathway lighting.
• Charge during the day: Place the solar panel in a sunny spot for maximum brightness.
• Be creative: Use them for atmospheric photos or as gentle night lighting in the tent.

13. The Coffee Guru: Mini Espresso Machine for Outdoor Caffeine Kicks

How about this: You wake up, the birds are chirping, the morning sun is peeking through the trees and… you can enjoy a perfect espresso. In the middle of the wilderness! Sounds like a dream? Welcome to reality with the mini espresso machine for campers!

Espresso while camping? Isn't that completely over the top?

Oh, my caffeine-needing nature friend, this is pure survival instinct! This little machine is:

• Your Morning Grouch Conqueror: Transforms you from a grizzly to a friendly bear.
• The Luxury Bringer: Because adventurers deserve a piece of civilization too.
• The Energy Giver: For when muscle soreness from hiking kicks in.

"I thought camping coffee meant stirring instant powder into lukewarm water and hoping it would taste delicious."

Why this mini espresso machine can revolutionize your camping life:

1. Compact: Smaller than your sleeping bag, but with a big impact.
2. No electricity needed: Works manually - perfect for the wilderness.
3. Quick to use: From waking up to the first sip in minutes.
4. Durable: Survives many adventures and keeps running.

Pro tips for outdoor coffee connoisseurs:

• Preheat: Rinse the cup with hot water before brewing.
• Quality matters: Use good, freshly ground coffee - you will taste the difference.
• Keep it clean: Clean the machine after each use for long-lasting enjoyment.

14. The Multitool Wonder: Survival Tool for All Cases

Imagine you have a tiny MacGyver in your pocket, ready for any conceivable outdoor dilemma.

Sounds too good to be true? Not with a multitool. It's like the superhero-practical all-rounder among your camping gadgets.

Many tools in one? Isn't that just an overly complicated bottle opener?

Oh, my skeptical adventurer, this tool is so much more! It is:

• Your problem solver: From loose screws to stuck zippers.
• The everyday rescuer: Opens bottles, cuts ropes, and saws small branches.
• The survival helper: With fire steel and more for real wilderness adventures.

Why this multitool will become your indispensable camping companion:

1. Ultra-compact: Fits in any pocket or belt without being a nuisance.
2. Versatile: Handles more tasks than a circus artist on coffee.
3. Robust: Made from high-quality material that withstands more than your camping mood after three days of rain.
4. Time-saving: No more rummaging through gear for the right tool.

Pro tips for multitool masters:

• Get familiar: Practice using all the features before heading into the wilderness.
• Maintenance is everything: Keep it clean and oiled for long-lasting functionality.
• Think creatively: Often there are multiple solutions to a problem – be inventive!

15. The Water Miracle: Water Filter Bottle for Safe Drinking Enjoyment Everywhere

Imagine you could turn every stream, lake, or puddle into crystal-clear drinking water. Sounds like magic? Welcome to the world of the water filter bottle! It's like having a personal water purification expert in your backpack.

A bottle that filters water? Isn't that overly cautious?

This bottle is:

• Your Stomach Saver: Protects against nasty bacteria and parasites.
• The Weight Optimizer: No more carrying water on long tours.
• The Environment Friend: Saves countless single-use plastic bottles.

Why a water filter bottle can revolutionize your camping life:

1. Ready to use immediately: From the source to your mouth in seconds.
2. Lightweight and compact: Takes up hardly more space than a regular bottle.
3. Durable: Filters hundreds of liters before a replacement is needed.
4. Versatile: Perfect for camping, travel, and emergency preparedness.

Pro Tips for Water-Wise:

• Don't forget to backwash: Regular backwashing extends the life of the filter.
• Be cautious with extreme contamination: Pre-filter very cloudy water, e.g., through a cloth.
• Frost protection: Take the bottle into the tent on cold nights to avoid damage to the filter.

16. The Ear Friend: Noise-Reducing Earplugs for Heavenly Camping Peace

Imagine you could turn down the volume of nature at will. Sounds like a dream for noise-sensitive campers?

Welcome to the world of noise-reducing earplugs! They are like an invisible sound designer for your outdoor nights.

Earplugs while camping? Don't you want to hear nature?

Sometimes nature (and your tent neighbors) can be a bit too chatty. These earplugs are:

• Your Sleep Savior: Block snoring, bird concerts at 4 AM, and rustling sleeping pads.
• The Stress Reducer: Ensure peace when the campsite turns into a party zone.
• The Focus Bringer: Perfect for a short meditation or yoga session in nature.

Noise-cancelling earplugs are an often overlooked but extremely useful camping accessory! While they are not part of the standard equipment, they are definitely worth considering.

Speaking of standard equipment: In the article "Camping Checklist: Perfectly Equipped for Your Vacation" by idealo.de you will find a comprehensive camping checklist with everything you need for a successful outdoor trip.

Why these earplugs will improve your camping life:

1. High Comfort: Gentle on the ear, tough on noise.
2. Adaptable: Often available in various sizes for a perfect fit.
3. Reusable: More environmentally friendly than disposable alternatives.
4. Versatile: Useful not only for camping but also for travel and home use.

"Now I sleep like a baby, whether owls are calling or neighbors are partying!" - Tom, converted light sleeper

Pro tips for those seeking peace:

• Proper insertion: Roll the plugs between your fingers and gently insert them.
• Maintain hygiene: Clean regularly for long-lasting use.
• Carry a spare pair: In case you lose a pair or want to share with someone.

17. The Mini-Meteorologist: Weather App for Smart Outdoor Planning

Let's imagine you had a personal weather frog in your pocket that tells you at any time whether you need sunscreen or a rain jacket. Sounds like science fiction?

Welcome to the world of weather apps for campers! They are like your digital guardian angel against unexpected weather whims.

A weather app? Can't I just look out of the tent?

Sometimes one look is not enough! This app is:

• Your Planner: Shows you the weather for the next few days, not just the next hour.
• The Activity Saver: Helps you find the perfect time for hikes or barbecues.
• The Danger Warner: Alerts you to approaching thunderstorms or storms.

Why this weather app will become your indispensable camping companion:

1. Accurate Predictions: Often more precise than your aching ankle during a weather change.
2. Location-Specific: Provides data for your exact location, not just the nearest big city.
3. User-Friendly: Easy-to-understand graphics and symbols, even if you're half in your sleeping bag.

18. The Energy Provider: Solar Charger for Unlimited Outdoor Power

Imagine you could capture the power of the sun and store it in your devices. Sounds like a dream for tech-loving campers?

Welcome to the world of solar chargers! They are like a portable outlet that you can take anywhere with you.

A charger in the wilderness? Shouldn't we disconnect from technology?

Sometimes even the most nature-loving camper needs an energy boost! A solar charger is:

• Your tech lifesaver: Keeps your smartphone, headlamps, cameras, GPS, and more running.
• The environmental friend: Uses renewable energy instead of wasting batteries.
• The emergency helper: Ensures you are always reachable in case of an emergency.

Why this solar charger takes your camping game to the next level:

1. Independence: Puts an end to searching for power outlets at campsites.
2. Lightweight: Small devices often weigh less than your water bottle.
3. Versatile: Charges various devices from smartphones to tablets.
4. Weatherproof: Many models are robust enough for outdoor adventures.

Pro tips for solar professionals:

• Optimal alignment: Position the panel directly towards the sun for maximum efficiency.
• Advance planning: Fully charge the integrated battery before the trip for cloudy days.
• Multiple uses: Use it as a flashlight or power bank, many models have additional features.

Conclusion: Ready for your next camping adventure?

There you have them: 18 unusual but super practical gadgets that will take your camping experience to a new level. From the collapsible water bottle to the solar charger - these little helpers can make a big difference.

But now it's your turn:

Which of these gadgets would you pack immediately? Or do you have your own insider tip that I absolutely should know about?

Please let us know in the comments! Because in the end, it is your experiences and stories that make camping something special.