The bench

Product reviews, one item at a time

A buying guide picks between five products. A review answers a narrower question: is this specific one right for how you actually camp? Each page reads the maker's published specs against the conditions that wear gear out here — heat, humidity, strong sun and sudden storms.

Camping Systems · 16 October 2026

Thermacell EX90

Best area repellent for a seated base at camp. The EX90 is the buy when you want a bug-free patch to sit in without smothering yourself in spray. It warms a treated mat and protects the air around you with no open flame or coil smoke. It needs fuel cartridges and replacement mats, and it loses power in strong wind.

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Camping Systems · 16 October 2026

Victorinox Huntsman

Best pocket-sized knife for light camp and daily carry. The Huntsman is the easy buy when you want a small knife that covers a surprising range of light jobs. It is light enough to carry every day and small enough to forget in a pack lid. It has no pliers and no locking blade, so it is not the tool for hard work.

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