The Best Camping Compass For 2024

Jonathan Wilson By, Jonathan Wilson
Updated
Best Camping Compass
Best Camping Compass

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Sportneer Military Compass

"This professional-grade military compass will always point you in the correct direction. It is perfect for camping, military use, emergencies, and exploring off the usual path." Read Review

2. Best For The Price: AOFAR Compass

"The AOFAR Compass is a must-have tool for outdoor enthusiasts. Made with durable metal construction, this compass is waterproof and shakeproof, making it able to withstand even the most harsh conditions." Read Review

3. Best Performance: Eyeskey Compass

"The Eyeskey Compass is a reliable and durable tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts. This compass is built with a clinometer, allowing you to accurately measure slope angles, elevation, and potential avalanche hazards while navigating steep terrains." Read Review

4. Best Convenience: Sun Company Compass

"This compass features an easy-to-read thermometer that reads temperatures down to -20°F or -30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and hunting. Stay prepared and organized on your adventures with the Sun Company Compass." Read Review

5. Best Portable: BlueSnail Camping Compass

"Embark on your outdoor adventures with confidence and precision, courtesy of the BlueSnail Camping Compass. Equipped with a classic design and modern features, this compass ensures you never lose your way in the wilderness." Read Review

Going on a wilderness expedition involves more than just a sense of adventure; it also necessitates dependable instruments for navigating the big outdoors. While smartphones boast various apps for navigation, they fall short when venturing off the grid, where signals fade and batteries drain. This is where the compass shines, a steadfast companion for any outdoor enthusiast.

In the realm of compasses, innovation and tradition converge to offer myriad options catering to different needs. From rugged, military-grade compasses built to withstand harsh conditions to compact, lightweight models ideal for minimalist trekkers, the market offers a compass for every type of adventurer.

At Kris Van Assche, we understand the importance of finding the right compass to guide your journey. With our expertise, we've curated a selection of the best camping compasses for 2024. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a novice camper, our recommendations will ensure you find your way confidently amidst nature's vast expanse.

We think the product that comes highly recommended for the best camping compass is Sportneer Military Compass. With its ergonomic lensatic design, this compass elevates accuracy to an art form. If you need more alternatives and more in-depth guidance, you may explore the following.

Compare

TOP Choice #1 Sportneer Military Compass
Our Score:
9.7
Sportneer

Designed for both adventurers and survivalists, this professional-grade compass emanates confidence in its appearance and effectiveness. With its ergonomic lensatic design, this compass elevates accuracy to an art form. The rear sight's magnifying lens ensures precise readings, even in challenging conditions. 

Built for durability, its military construction boasts waterproof and shakeproof properties, resilient against nature's harshest elements. Its portable nature, featuring a convenient belt loop attachment and a secure carrying case, ensures it stays within arm's reach on any expedition. Furthermore, the fluorescent interface illuminates the darkest nights, facilitating clear readings when visibility is low.

For outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists seeking a dependable navigation tool without breaking the bank, the Sportneer Military Compass offers a compelling solution. The cover may not fully protect the dial when closed, potentially causing it to turn in your pocket. Therefore, you need to use it carefully. Ideal for camping, hiking, or emergencies, the Sportneer Military Compass is a reliable companion for every adventure.

TOP Choice #2 AOFAR Compass
Our Score:
9.5
AOFAR

This compass is ready to tackle any terrain with finesse. Equipped with a floating compass dial and a 360° scale, alongside an adjustable prism lens and clinometer, the AOFAR compass offers unparalleled functionality. Whether measuring heights, slopes or finding your bearings, this compass easily does it. Nevertheless, the inclination indicator may feel a bit flimsy, requiring gentle handling.

Constructed from durable metal, this compass laughs in the face of harsh conditions, with waterproof and shake proof properties ensuring its resilience against the elements. Its true sighting optic guarantees accurate readings, aided by a thumb hold and magnifying viewer for enhanced readability. Packaged with care, including an English manual and a protective pouch, the AOFAR Compass is a complete solution for adventurers of all stripes.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast seeking a versatile navigation tool that doesn't skimp on durability, the AOFAR Compass is tailor-made for your needs. Whether you're a camping fan, a hiking enthusiast, or an avid explorer, this compass is your trusty companion in the wild.

TOP Choice #3 Eyeskey Compass
Our Score:
9.4
Eyeskey

Navigating the wilderness demands precision, and the Eyeskey Compass rises to the challenge. Equipped with a clinometer, it measures slopes and avalanche risks, which are crucial for mountaineers and backcountry explorers. Its robust aluminum alloy construction ensures durability in harsh conditions, while the luminous dial and magnifying viewer facilitate quick readings even in low light.

The only downside is that it doesn't come with instructions. But fear not, as online resources and community forums abound with guidance for mastering this tool. For the intrepid explorer seeking reliability and accuracy, the Eyeskey Compass proves an indispensable companion.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast who thrives on conquering rugged terrains, the Eyeskey Compass is your steadfast ally. Whether scaling steep slopes or trekking through dense forests, its advanced features provide invaluable assistance. While its price may lean towards the higher end of the spectrum, the investment is justified for those who prioritize functionality and durability in their gear.

4 Sun Company Compass
Our Score:
9.3
Sun Company

The Sun Company Compass, designed for travelers, has a large ball compass that makes it easy to read in any circumstance. Its cushion-mounted thermometer offers at-a-glance temperature monitoring down to a chilly -20°F/-30°C, crucial for assessing weather conditions on the fly. It also has a handy carabiner clip and split ring that enhances its versatility, allowing you to attach it to your backpack, gear loop, or keychain with effortless ease. The only drawback is that the side card is not to be used for general orientation purposes. If you do this, readings will be 180° off. Yet, this minor drawback pales in comparison to the myriad benefits of the TempaComp.

For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable navigation tool that also provides essential temperature readings, the Sun Company Compass fits the bill. Whether you're embarking on a weekend camping trip or a week-long backpacking adventure, its versatility and ease of use make it a valuable addition to your gear arsenal. 

5 BlueSnail Camping Compass
Our Score:
9.1
BlueSnail

Step into the wilderness equipped with the BlueSnail Camping Compass, a timeless companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Crafted with an old-fashioned copper build, it not only exudes durability but also boasts a 360-degree rotating bezel for seamless navigation. Whether under the scorching sun or the cloak of night, its glow-in-the-dark feature ensures clear readability in all conditions.

Compact and convenient, it's designed to accompany adventurers of all ages, measuring a mere 48mm x 12mm. However, one important thing to remember is that you need to keep the compass on a horizontal level to ensure proper operation and keep it away from other magnetic items that may interfere with its function.

For individuals seeking a reliable navigation tool without compromising on quality, the BlueSnail Camping Compass is an indispensable asset. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a novice camper, its user-friendly design and affordability make it an ideal choice for navigating the great outdoors.

6 Proster Compass
Our Score:
9.0
Proster

Precision is essential for outdoor exploration, and the Proster Compass gives exactly that. It is possible to measure height as well as slopes with this 330G high-strength engineering professional compass that also includes a clinometer. Reading data in a dark setting is possible with a luminous magnet arrow and compass card, provided that it has been exposed to sufficient sunlight. 

In addition, this is a clinometer, which allows for the measurement of slopes and heights. Waterproof and shakeproof, featuring a foldable metal top, a floating compass dial with a scale that measures 360 degrees, and an adjustable prism lens. It can function in adverse weather conditions and is suited for camping, climbing, boating, exploring, hunting, hiking, geology, and other outdoor pursuits. 

For avid outdoor adventurers who prioritize precision and durability in their navigational equipment, the Proster Compass proves indispensable. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that the compass leans towards the heavier side, albeit a testament to its robust build. Despite this, with its multifunctionality and reliability, the Proster Compass is a stalwart companion for outdoor enthusiasts seeking accuracy and endurance.

7 TurnOnSport Compass
Our Score:
8.9
TurnOnSport

The TurnOnSport Compass emerges as a versatile companion for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of features designed to enhance navigational accuracy. Its adjustable declination dial ensures precise readings, which is crucial for military survival or search and rescue missions. This product also has a sighting mirror and protective cover that simplifies alignment and enhances visibility—a boon for navigating challenging terrains.

Additionally, the compass boasts a global needle and clinometer, catering to globe-trotters and adventurers seeking height measurements and declination adjustments. One minor issue is that the compass head can be slightly difficult to turn. Nonetheless, with its lightweight design and durability, the TurnOnSport Compass remains an essential tool for adventurers of all ages.

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, the TurnOnSport Compass caters to those seeking accuracy and versatility in their navigational equipment. At a price of $14.72, it's an affordable investment for anyone seeking reliable navigation equipment for their outdoor excursions.

To Choose The best camping compass, What Criteria Do You Need To Study Before?

Almost all buyers are anxious about getting best camping compass. Whenever creating multiple purchases, various issues need to be resolved. Our market expertise will give you help to make the best shopping selection.

Please consider the following factors before selecting best camping compass:

Luminosity

It is highly beneficial to have the essential components of a compass illuminated in the dark. This feature comes in handy in situations where there is limited light, even if nighttime hiking is not on the agenda. Additionally, having a glow-in-the-dark compass allows for navigation in the event of emergencies or when visibility is poor. The luminous colors typically rely on phosphorus, which requires exposure to light sources like the sun or a flashlight to emit a glow.

Type Of Compass

There are two primary categories of compasses available: baseplate and lensatic. Baseplate compasses, which are the most prevalent, are recommended for novices due to their lightweight design and user-friendly features, such as a transparent plastic baseplate for simplified map reading. In contrast, lensatic compasses are more sophisticated and are predominantly utilized by military personnel. While they offer higher precision and durability, they are also bulkier and require more expertise to operate effectively.

Compass Accuracy

It is important to prioritize accuracy when selecting a hiking compass. Opt for a compass that offers a high level of precision in its measurements. An ideal compass should be capable of measuring angles with an accuracy of 1 degree or better. Also, ensure that the compass includes a declination adjustment feature, which enables you to account for the variance between true north and magnetic north.

Size

Compasses may be small in size, but it is important to consider their usage when choosing one. If you intend to keep the compass in your pocket, it is advisable to opt for a smaller model. Generally, the more features a compass has, the larger it will be. While compasses are lightweight, every ounce matters, especially for backpacking or long hikes. A basic baseplate compass can weigh as little as 1 or 2 ounces (30-57 grams), while a military-style compass may weigh up to 7 ounces (199 grams).

Ease Of Use

Having a compass with advanced features is pointless if you are unable to utilize them effectively. It is important for a compass to be user-friendly and easy to read. While adjustable declination can be beneficial, it can also be difficult to adjust. Some compasses come with a convenient lanyard for easy access.

Region And Needle

Compass needles need to be adjusted for the specific hemisphere they are used in because of the Earth's magnetic field characteristics. The Earth's magnetic poles do not align with its geographical poles, resulting in different magnetic field angles in the northern and southern hemispheres. Compass needles may need to be adjusted more near the poles. Some compasses have global needles that can be used in both hemispheres, but it is important to ensure the compass is suitable for your region.

The needle is the most important part of a compass, needing to move smoothly and settle quickly. It is usually housed in a liquid-filled capsule and should have a built-in tilt tolerance for accurate readings even if not held perfectly horizontally.

Durability

When you go hiking, your compass may be subjected to rough conditions. It's important to select a sturdy compass that can endure the outdoors. Opt for a compass crafted from top-notch materials like aluminum or stainless steel, and ensure it is both waterproof and shockproof.

FAQs

What is a camping compass used for?

camping compass is used to help navigate and determine direction while camping, hiking, or engaging in other outdoor activities.

How do I use a camping compass?

To use a camping compass, hold it flat and level, then rotate the compass housing until the north arrow lines up with the magnetic needle. The direction you are facing is then indicated by the direction of the compass needle.

Are all camping compasses the same?

No, camping compasses can vary in design, features, and accuracy. Some compasses may have additional features such as a sighting mirror, declination adjustment, or a luminous display for nighttime use.

How accurate are camping compasses?

The accuracy of a camping compass can vary depending on the quality of the compass and external factors such as magnetic interference. It is important to calibrate your compass regularly and account for declination to ensure accurate navigation.

Can I use a camping compass in conjunction with a GPS device?

Yes, using a camping compass in conjunction with a GPS device can provide backup navigation and help you stay on course in case of GPS signal loss or device failure.

Do I need to have a map with me when using a camping compass?

While a map is not required when using a camping compass, having a map can provide additional context and help you navigate more effectively. It is recommended to always carry a map along with your compass when venturing into unfamiliar terrain.

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About Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson is a former pro football player and tech reporter who now serves as the editor of Kris Van Assche's website. He is a dedicated fitness enthusiast who splits his workout time between strength and conditioning training, martial arts and running.

Jonathan's athletic career began in college, where he was a star running back. He went on to play professionally for several years before injuries forced him to retire. Afterward, Jonathan transitioned into a career in tech reporting, where he quickly made a name for himself as a knowledgeable and insightful commentator on the industry.

In addition to his work with our website, Jonathan remains active in the world of sports. He regularly competes in martial arts tournaments and running events, and he is always looking for new ways to challenge himself physically. Jonathan is an inspiration to many people, and he is proof that it is never too late to pursue your passions.

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