I’ve pitched tents in the rain, sliced salami on tree stumps, and chopped kindling by headlamp.

Through it all, these three knives have earned their place in my camping kit. In this post, I break down the combo I trust in the backcountry—plus some “don’t even pack it” mistakes you can skip.

1. Fixed Blade Workhorse

I carry a full-time fixed blade for heavy jobs. Mines the Cold Steel SRK Compact, it’s short enough to handle, but thick enough to baton with or dig out a stubborn tent stake. No nonsense, just sharp steel and a solid grip. It’s the knife I reach for when something needs to be done quickly: splitting kindling, clearing brush, or slicing into a stubborn food pouch.

2. Folding Pocket Knife

Next is a simple folding knife for food prep, beer fixes, and general cutting. Lightweight and compact, I use a Spyderco Tenacious. It opens fast, holds an edge, and cleans up easily after cheese and trail salami. It’s the knife that gets the most use, whether I’m peeling an apple or slicing paracord. If you’re only packing one blade, this could do the job.

3.  Something Serrated

It’s hard to beat a serrated knife when it comes to cutting rope, wood, and crusty bread, even when dull. The Byrd Cara Cara is a great knife to have on hand especially in wet or rugged conditions where clean slicing might be difficult with a plain edge.

What I Don’t Pack

I’ve learned not to bring giant survival knives. They are too bulky, too flashy, and not much better than a good fixed blade. I also skip multitools with 37 features I never use.

Camping knives should be sharp, reliable, and not a puzzle to close in the dark. Simple wins every time. The best knife is the one you’ll actually use when it matters.

Campfire Confessions: What’s in your knife kit when you hit the trail?