Welcome to the ultimate guide for quality camping mirrors. I've tested and reviewed folding mirrors, multi-functional travel mirrors and portable mirrors, carefully designed to meet your camping needs.
Whether you're off on a weekend hiking trip, a longer journey into the wilderness, a caravan holiday or a glamping getaway, I know that having the right camping gear can make a world of difference.
Discover the convenience of folding mirrors, that are compact yet effective, making them the perfect camping companion. In this article, I'll cover lightweight, unbreakable and compact options, making it easy to maintain your personal care routine, even when you're miles from the nearest bathroom!
3-Way Camping Mirror from Coghlans
My fellow campers I praise this mirror for its perfect size and high quality. Whether you need it for a quick shave or makeup touch-ups in the wilderness, this camping mirror won't let you down!
A versatile and indispensable tool for every camper's kit. With its innovative 3-way function, this portable mirror offers the perfect blend of convenience and functionality that sets it apart from others I tested and reviewed.
Pros
Super lightweight: The great news is this mirror won't add much weight to your backpack.
Well made: A sturdy and rust-resistant camping mirror - a real asset on your outdoor adventures!
Easy to hang: It comes with a stand and can also be hung up. It's pretty versatile, I must say!
Clear reflection: Get a crystal-clear image even when in the shower or outdoors in the heat.
Cons
Safe arrival: We've had a report of the mirror arriving broken. It might be a one-off, but it's worth considering the packaging aspect when ordering.
Suction challenge: If you're thinking of sticking it on a tile, one user found that the suction cups weren't up to the task. Good to keep in mind if you're planning to use it in the bathroom or shower.
Things to Consider When Buying a Camping Mirror
When purchasing a camping mirror, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that the product will meet your needs and expectations:
Size and Weight
A camping mirror should be lightweight and compact for easy portability. You'll be carrying it in your backpack or camping bag, so it shouldn't add unnecessary weight or take up too much space.
Durability
The mirror should be able to withstand the rigours of outdoor use. This includes being resistant to cracking or breaking if dropped. Some camping mirrors are made with unbreakable material, making them a good choice for camping trips.
Functionality
Look for a mirror with additional features like anti-fog capability, which is useful for shaving or applying sunscreen. Some mirrors also have the ability to stand freely, hang, or be suspended, offering you more versatility in terms of where and how you can use them.
Visibility and Reflective Quality
Ensure that the mirror offers clear visibility. Some cheaper mirrors might have distorted reflections or might not be as clear as you need them to be.
Multipurpose Use
Some camping mirrors come with additional features like signalling capabilities, which can be invaluable in emergency situations. This can be a crucial factor if you're going on more adventurous or isolated trips.
Ease of Use
The camping mirror should be easy to use and set up. For example, if it comes with a hanging chain or a stand, these should be simple to attach and detach as needed.
Price
Finally, consider your budget. While you want a mirror that is durable and functional, you also want to make sure it falls within your price range.
Remember to read my product reviews before purchasing. These can provide valuable insight into the product's real-world performance and can help you make an informed decision.
Planning an outdoor adventure? Check out my other popular buyer guides for camping toilets and camping bins.
The Best Travel Mirrors for Camping:
For those on the go, these travel mirrors are an essential part of any journey, they'll be a trusted addition to your backpack, ready whenever you need them.
Here are some more of the best mirrors I tested and reviewed:
Unbreakable Travel Mirror from Shave Well
Experience the ultimate convenience with the Shave Well Portable Mirror, a versatile and durable tool designed specifically for the outdoor adventurer. This handheld mirror combines practicality and durability in a compact design, ensuring your personal grooming needs are met wherever you are.
Pros
Just the right size: I'm chuffed with this mirror's size, it's perfect for camping trips. Big enough to be useful but small enough to pack easily.
Unbreakable: This mirror has earned its 'unbreakable' title with everyone I know reporting that it has survived numerous trips and even falls, perfect for those of us who can be a bit clumsy!
Safety: You won't have to worry about shattered glass in your backpack or your campsite. I'm pleased with the extra safety this mirror provides, especially in environments where glass isn't allowed.
Cons
Potential for degradation: It seems this mirror requires a gentle touch when it comes to cleaning, as abrasive cleaners like toothpaste could cause scratches.
Susceptible to scratches: Given its unbreakable nature, it's important to remember this mirror is not scratch-proof. If you're rough with it or use abrasive cleaners, you might find a few unwanted marks.
The Shave Well Portable Mirror is a must-have for any camping trip. Its anti-fog feature guarantees clear visibility, making it an excellent choice for shaving or other grooming tasks. Even amidst the morning dew or after a warm shower in the wilderness, this mirror maintains its clarity, ensuring a smooth shave every time.
Explore the Shave Well Portable Mirror and discover why it’s the go-to choice for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s not just a mirror; it’s a reflection of your adventurous spirit. Experience the difference today, where practicality meets durability.
Compact Camping Mirror from Lifeventure
Introducing the Lifeventure Compact Camping Mirror, an essential tool designed with the modern camper in mind. Compact, lightweight and eco-friendly, this mirror is made to assist you on every adventure, making it a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.
Pros
Compact and Robust: I love the mirror's toughness and compact size, making it a reliable addition to any camping kit. I vouch for this as a "good strong bit of kit" that is ideal for travel, especially for those camping and hiking trips.
Clear Reflection: Once you remove the protective film, this mirror provides a decent reflection, great for quick checks or even a bit of self-reflection while you're on your adventures!
Cons
Wearing Around the Neck: Despite it being compact, in some active situations, I found that it's not comfortable or practical to wear around the neck.
Protective Film Confusion: There was a case of confusion with the protective film that comes on the mirror. I was initially disappointed with the dull reflection until I realised the film needed to be removed.
Despite its robust functionality, this camping mirror maintains a compact design. Measuring only 94 x 64 x 4 mm and weighing a mere 22 g, it's designed to slip effortlessly into your camping gear without adding any noticeable weight.
One of the most admirable features of the Lifeventure Compact Camping Mirror is its commitment to sustainability. Made with eco-friendly materials and processes, this mirror is a testament to the brand's dedication to preserving the very outdoors we love to explore.
Signal Mirror by Highlander
The Lightweight Camping Mirror by Highlander is more than just an aid for grooming or putting in your contact lenses. This small but mighty tool can also be used for signalling in emergencies.
Pros
Multifunctional: A distinctive plus of this Highlander Camping Mirror is its ability to double as a signal mirror in emergency situations. Its reflectivity can be used to catch the attention of rescuers or passers-by, making it a potentially life-saving tool in your camping or survival kit.
Durability: It appears to be pretty sturdy and can withstand the rough handling that comes with travelling and outdoor activities. I found it held up well in my backpack without chipping or cracking.
Reflective Quality: Despite some concerns I read online, I found the reflective quality of the mirror to be perfectly sufficient for outdoor needs.
Cons
Description Typo: A common issue among buyers is that the product is not made from steel, as suggested in the Amazon description, but is plastic instead.
Size: I found the mirror smaller than I expected it to be. Although its compact size is a plus for some, it could be too small for certain tasks, such as doing hair.
Whether you're lost in the wilderness or need to attract attention from a distance, this mirror's reflective surface can be a lifesaver, proving to be an indispensable part of your camping safety kit.
One of the standout features of the Lightweight Camping Mirror by Highlander is its near-unbreakable construction. Designed to withstand the rigours of outdoor use, this mirror offers reliability you can count on, ensuring it remains intact even during the most challenging camping expeditions.
Folding Mirror from DUcare
Presenting the DUcare Folding Travel Mirror, my ultimate grooming companion in the wild. Expertly crafted for the discerning camper, this mirror fuses portability, adaptability, and superior quality into one compact package.
Pros
Folding Design: This design allows the mirror to take up minimal space in your luggage, making it the ideal accessory for travellers who prefer packing light.
Decent Size: The mirror has a decent size that makes it useful both at home and on the go. It strikes a good balance between portability and usability.
Stand Feature: The ability to stand the mirror up on most surfaces is a significant advantage, enabling hands-free use. This feature enhances the mirror's convenience and usability.
Cons
Potential Stability Issue: In some situations I found the mirror tends to slide down and does not hold in place, suggesting a potential issue with its stability.
Protection During Transit: I suggest wrapping the mirror in clothing to ensure its safety during transit, it's not as sturdy as other travel mirrors.
The standout feature of the DUcare Folding Travel Mirror is its cleverly designed compactness. Boasting dimensions of just 6*8 inches and a slim profile of 10mm when folded, it becomes a subtle addition to your camping gear, occupying minimal space yet delivering maximal utility.
The real genius lies in its multi-angle positioning ability. Thanks to its innovative folding design, you have the flexibility to set the mirror at various angles, suiting your personal grooming needs. Be it shaving, applying sun lotion, or carrying out a tick check, this mirror adjusts to your requirements seamlessly.
Wrapping it up
So, there we have it, folks. At the end of the day, finding the perfect camping mirror is all about what works best for you. You might be drawn to the super portable DUcare Folding Travel Mirror or perhaps the tough-as-nails Lightweight Camping Mirror by Highlander.
I hope you enjoyed reading this guide, and if you have any questions then please feel free to get in touch.
Abby Humphreys
Editor & owner @ www.smallcampsites.co.uk
Abby loves to travel and hike in nature. She promotes wellness, and shares her adventures on her blog. Abby is an open water swimmer, snowboarder, kayaker, hiker, and a meditator who loves the outdoors.