Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X
Type: All-Around
If you’re going to bring a multitool traveling or backpacking, this is the classic choice, thanks to an array of saws, pliers, blades, and screw-drivers. For the sake of weight, stick to the basics. Why This One: Leave it to the makers of the Swiss Army Knife to perfect the all-purpose multitool. The costs more than comparable models like the , but it’s built to last and has enough sharp edges to cut anything encountered at home or in the backcountry.
Leatherman Syle PS
Type: Minitool
Also referred to as key-chain tools, these companions pack only the bare bones. They’re lightweight, durable, and give you quick access to the necessities, like pliers for base camp and a bottle opener for minibar beers. Why This One: The 1.6-ounce does away with the knife blade of its predecessor, so it’s TSA compliant. The file-screwdriver combo cuts through packing tape but isn’t as dangerous to inquisitive toddlers. With the company’s dependable pliers and scissors, plus a bottle opener and tweezer, it’ll get you out of most jams.
Gerber Steady
Type: Photography
For remote treks with a point-and-shoot, a multitool that doubles as a tripod makes a lot of sense. Why This One: The does the job. Two legs extend to form a stable base for cameras and cell phones (the latter connect via suction cup), and there’s a super-strong blade, a serrated knife, three screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and needle-nose pliers. The 5.9-ounce poly-propylene body sits comfortably in your palm.
SKS Tom 18
Type: Cycling
No one knows the sorrow of being stranded without tools like a cyclist. Here are the staples: tire levers to unseat your slicks, Allen wrenches for adjustments, and a chain tool and spoke wrench for when things really go sour. Why This One: A study in compactness, the packs 13 tools—six Allen wrenches, a screwdriver, a Torx driver, two tire levers, a spoke key, a chain tool, and a bottle opener—into one jersey-pocket-friendly neoprene sleeve. It can even store an extra chain pin.