1. Gerber Radius, £57.50

The soft, non-slip handles are designed for use in even the coldest and wettest conditions. All eight stainless steel features, including spring-action pliers and wire cutters, have thumbstuds for easy access.

Stockists: gerber-tools.com

Best for... getting back to basics

2. Leatherman Skeletool, £59.95

Less can be more with this stripped-down model from multitool giant Leatherman. Weighing just 140g, it has all the features you’re likely to need such as a steel blade, pliers and, most importantly, a bottle opener.

Stockists: leatherman.com

Best for... serious outdoorsmen

3. Leatherman Surge £77.95

The Surge is the Skeletool’s big bad brother, boasting the toughest pliers and sharpest scissors Leatherman has produced. At 355g it is more at home on the building site rather than in a backpack, but the quick-access blades makes this a valuable asset if you’ve got to get tough jobs done fast.

Stockists: leatherman.com

Best for... value

4. Eurohike 16, £14.99

With 16 features, the Eurohike is invaluable for the camper who may need a fish descaler, screwdriver or can opener at a moment’s notice. A good all-rounder at a bargain-basement price.

Stockists: millets.co.uk

Best for... heavy duty jobs

5. SOG PowerLock, £67.95

Built with power and functionality at its foundation, it’s no wonder this tool is carried by some of world’s leading military units. Its patented leverage system allows its 14 features to be used with minimal effort.

Stockists: heinnie.com