The 3D-Printed Backpacking Gadgets We Didn't Know We Needed

Backpackers are good at improvising creative solutions to problems, especially when it comes to gear. When you’re carrying your life on your back, relying on quick fixes and DIY systems is the name of the game. We also love gadgets and any piece of gear that simplifies time spent on the trail or in camp. So it’s no surprise that the internet abounds with 3D-printed models, designed by hikers, aiming to solve all kinds of backpacking dilemmas. While we haven’t yet tested any of the following, here are 10 designs we think deserve a place in our backpacks.

Don’t have a 3D printer at home? Many libraries, makers workshops, and other creative spaces have printers available for use by the public.

Cord Tensioners

Sure, a taut line hitch will do when it comes to perfecting our tent pitch or hanging a clothesline, but we love cord tensioners that automatically lock into place when you slide them along a line—no tying required. Some tent and tarp guylines come pre-fitted with tensioning devices, but you can retrofit all of your lines and shelters with this handy design.

Bear Canister Key

Ever tried to open a BearVault with freezing fingers? Fumbling with the plastic nubs can be painful and frustrating. Thankfully, one ingenious backpacker designed this key to aid in the process. You could use a credit card, but this device even comes with an attachment for your canister’s lid so it’s always on hand.

Pocket-Sized Games

Card games are fun, but who says your favorite board games can’t be ultralight? Only a smidge larger than a Snickers bar (but you can scale the design to any size you like), this teeny-tiny chess set is compact and packable. This Connect 4 set fits inside an Altoid tin. Whatever game you love, there’s likely a mini 3D-printed model out there.

Toothpaste Transfer Tube

Ounce-counters love sample-size mini toothpaste tubes (the ones that are even smaller than travel-sized toothpaste). But buying a new tube for every hike is wasteful. One resourceful backpacker invented this coupler for refilling miniature toothpaste tubes from full-sized ones.

Two-in-One Whistle/Tick Remover

Ultralighters love any item that serves multiple functions. There are countless designs for tick-removal tools and safety whistles online, but this model combines the two into one keychain-compatible gizmo.

Fuel Stand

Some backpacking stoves come with fuel canister stands to keep your whole setup level on uneven ground. If yours didn’t, you can print your own foldable stand with this model. If you’ve got an engineer’s mind, you can modify the design to suit your needs.

Stake Pushers

I’ve bent and broken countless tent stakes by hammering them with a large rock, but never have I considered that there may be a solution out there. These stake-pushing devices fit on top of a tent stake (there are loads of designs to fit different shapes and sizes) to protect your hand or shoe while driving the stake, or provide a flat surface upon which to hammer.

Trekking Pole Tip Protectors

Last time I had to pack my trekking poles into checked luggage, I wrapped the tips in paper towels to prevent them from damaging my bag or anything inside it. Instead, you can print tip caps, rubber feet, and even replacement baskets for your poles. There are plenty of designs compatible with various models and brands so you can find your perfect fit.

Water Filter End Cap

Here’s a really niche one. Picture this: You’re expecting a cold night in camp, and you don’t want your water filter to freeze. The solution? Put it in your sleeping bag. But residual water can leak out while you sleep. Why use a plastic bag when you can simply screw on this end cap, specifically designed for Sawyer water filters? Just like that, no more leaks.

Sleeping Pad Pump Adapter

Battery-powered sleeping pad pumps are among our favorite recent backpacking innovations. But these pumps aren’t compatible with every brand of sleeping pad on the market. Luckily, a handful of 3D-print models exist for adapting pumps for specific sleeping pads.