If you’re planning a camping trip in the UK this year, picking the right pocket knife isn’t just about style or sharpness – it’s about staying on the right side of the law and making your outdoor adventures smoother. Whether you’re prepping campfire meals, whittling sticks for marshmallows, or just opening a stubborn packet of noodles, a trusty camping knife is essential kit.
But with UK knife laws being what they are (strict!), choosing the best pocket knife UK 2025 is a bit of a minefield. Let’s break down what’s legal, what’s practical, and which knives are actually worth your money this year.
Quick Guide: UK Knife Laws for Campers
Before you buy, here’s what you need to know:
- Legal to carry: Folding knives with a blade length of 3 inches (7.62cm) or less, and no locking mechanism.
- Not legal without good reason: Fixed blades, locking knives, or anything over 3 inches (unless you have a legit reason – just camping usually doesn’t cut it in the eyes of the law).
- Always check local restrictions: Some campsites and national parks have their own rules.
What Makes a Good Camping Knife in the UK?
- Legal blade length and mechanism: No point getting a knife you can’t legally carry!
- Sturdy build: Stainless steel blades and tough handles (G10, FRN, or good old wood).
- Easy to clean: You’ll be using it for food, so hygiene matters.
- Lightweight and compact: You want something that disappears in your pocket, not weighs down your kit.
Top Picks: Best Pocket Knives for UK Camping Trips in 2025
Here’s my shortlist of camping knives that tick all the boxes for UK campers this year. All are non-locking, sub-3-inch blades—practical, legal, and ready for anything.
1. Victorinox Swiss Army Knife (Spartan)
- Blade: 2.6 inches, non-locking
- Why it rocks: The classic. You get a sharp blade plus a bunch of handy tools (can opener, corkscrew, screwdrivers). Perfect for camp tasks and food prep.
- Best for: All-rounders who want more than just a blade.
Price: £20.99
2. Opinel No. 6
- Blade: 2.87 inches, non-locking (make sure to get the non-locking version)
- Why it rocks: Lightweight, super sharp, and that wood handle just feels right in the hand. Great for slicing food and light camp chores.
- Best for: Minimalists and foodies.
Price: £15.49
3. Spyderco UK Penknife
- Blade: 2.95 inches, slip-joint (non-locking)
- Why it rocks: Designed specifically for UK law, this one’s a cult favourite. Grippy handle, solid steel, and a blade that just wants to work.
- Best for: Gear geeks who want premium quality.
Price: £100.05
4. Rough Ryder Reserve Reserve Easy Open
- Blade: 2.75 inches, slip-joint
- Why it rocks: Affordable, reliable, and built to last. Classic looks, sharp blade, and UK-legal.
- Best for: Budget-conscious campers.
Price: £67.99
Tips for Carrying Your Camping Knife in the UK
- Only carry what you need. Don’t bring your whole knife collection – one good blade is enough.
- Keep it in your pocket or pack when not in use.
- Be ready to explain why you have it. “I’m camping, here’s my tent and stove” is usually fine, but be polite if asked.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best pocket knife UK 2025 isn’t about having the biggest or flashiest blade – it’s about finding something legal, reliable, and ready for your next adventure. The knives above are all solid picks for UK camping trips, and they’ll handle everything from food prep to fire making (just don’t go batoning logs with them!).
Have a favourite camping knife I missed? Drop a comment below or tag @WilderEdgeBlog on Instagram – let’s swap stories and tips!
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the campfire burning at Wilder Edge Blog!
Want more UK camping tips, gear reviews, and wild adventure guides?
Subscribe to the Wilder Edge newsletter
and never miss a post.
