Best Practical Camping Gadgets for the Lake District
Useful small comforts for campsites, touring holidays and outdoor adventures.
Some camping gadgets genuinely make life easier; others take up valuable packing space. Our choices focus on practical kit that earns its place at a Lake District campsite. For essential cooking equipment, lights and charging solutions, see our separate camping gear guides rather than buying duplicated gadgets.
For campsite coffee: AeroPress Go Plus
Coffee press and insulated travel tumbler
AeroPress Go Plus Portable Coffee Maker
The AeroPress Go Plus combines a manual coffee press with an insulated stainless-steel tumbler that serves as both brewing cup and carrying case. Brew straight into the tumbler, drink your coffee and pack the components inside when cleaned and dry. It suits campsite mornings, campervans and self-catering trips where hot water is available.
- Model: Go Plus travel coffee system, not the smaller standard AeroPress Go
- Tumbler: insulated 18/8 stainless steel with a magnetic splash-resistant lid
- Tumbler capacity: approximately 473ml (16 US fl oz); the press makes up to roughly 296ml (10 US fl oz) per brew
- Packed weight: approximately 560g including tumbler and brewing components
- Materials: durable Tritan press and stainless-steel tumbler; manufacturer describes the system as BPA-free
- Included: press, tumbler, scoop, stirrer, cap and paper micro-filters; lid holder stores up to 25 filters
- Power: no electricity needed for the press itself; provide safely heated water separately
- Cleaning: AeroPress states the Go Plus is dishwasher-safe; rinse promptly to avoid stale coffee residue
For inflatable camping mats: FLEXTAIL TINY PUMP 2X
Mini rechargeable air pump and camp light
FLEXTAIL TINY PUMP 2X
Designed to reduce the effort of inflating and packing away compatible camping sleeping mats, this tiny cordless pump also deflates inflatable equipment and doubles as a small campsite light. Its compact size is especially useful when every bit of packing space matters.
- Manufacturer’s weight: approximately 100g
- Dimensions: approximately 45 × 46 × 59mm
- Inflation: up to 4kPa maximum air pressure and 180L/min airflow under specified conditions
- Deflation: suction function for compatible inflatable mats and storage bags
- Adaptors: five supplied nozzles; check compatibility with your specific sleeping mat valve
- Light: integrated camping lantern with three brightness modes (30, 120 and 230 lumens)
- Charging: USB-C rechargeable; current manufacturer specifications give a 1,600mAh battery and up to 30 minutes of pump runtime
- Weather resistance: IP44 rated for splashes and dust ingress; do not submerge or leave in heavy rain
- Important limitation: not suitable for high-pressure tyre inflation; confirm compatibility with the mat or airbed before use
For simple campsite washing: Sea to Summit Pocket Shower
Portable gravity-fed shower
Sea to Summit Pocket Shower
This compact hanging shower makes simple washing possible where an appropriate campsite shower facility isn’t available. Fill the waterproof bag, hang it securely and adjust the flow with the twist-action shower head. It requires no battery, gas or electric pump, making it practical for touring and camping where water supplies and site rules permit its use.
- Water capacity: 10 litres
- Weight: approximately 120g, depending on model revision
- Shower duration: up to around eight minutes at a modest flow setting; actual duration depends on adjustment
- Water flow: adjustable twist-action shower head
- Hanging: supplied cord, approximately six metres long
- Construction: roll-top waterproof bag that packs into a small pouch
- Heating: dark fabric can warm water in sunshine, but this is weather dependent and does not guarantee warm water
- Best suited to: campsites and other places where temporary hanging showers are allowed
Check water temperature carefully before use; do not hang it from fragile branches or structures.
How to choose useful camping gadgets
Choose gear you will actually use
A coffee press can be worthwhile if you make coffee every morning; other gadgets are only useful when they solve a recurring camping problem. Prioritise dependable sleeping equipment, clothing and shelter before adding luxuries.
Think about weight, packing space and power
What fits comfortably in a car or campervan may be excessive for a backpacking trip. Check packed dimensions and battery needs before leaving home. Rechargeable items should be charged in advance and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Camping responsibly in the Lakes
Use designated campsites where appropriate, follow site rules and always practise safe cooking. Take coffee grounds, used filters and other rubbish home or dispose of them properly; avoid tipping residues into streams and lakes. Never use camping stoves or fuel-burning equipment inside tents due to the danger of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Features are based on manufacturer’s information; prices and availability may change.
Editorially updated November 2026.
Kath Beattie studied Journalism at The University of Central Lancashire and now writes for several Travel publications. She recently moved to The Lake District and enjoys walking her 3 dogs every day across the fells.
