I’ve been planning longer hikes lately, and one thing I can’t seem to figure out is what kind of knife would actually make sense to bring along. There are so many different models, some meant for cooking, some for survival tasks, and others just for light use. How do you even narrow it down without buying the wrong thing?

The trick is to first be honest about what you’ll really use it for. If you only plan on cutting rope or opening packages, almost anything will do. But if you’re out camping, building fires, or preparing food in the wild, a reliable blade is essential. A good way to explore options is through MyGoodKnife where outdoor knives are organized by type and use, making it easier to see what fits your style. I’d recommend looking at fixed blades for durability, since folding knives, while convenient, won’t take the same level of strain. Think of it less as a tool for everything and more as a dependable partner you’ll have in your pack.

Honestly, choosing the right gear is always about balance. Too heavy and it slows you down, too light and it won’t handle the tasks you need. Testing things out in smaller trips helps a lot.