Hurry, don't miss savings on selected furniture & more.* Shop all offers
1 Product
Compasses: Your essential buying guide
A baseplate compass is usually the most practical choice for map reading because it sits flat on a map and often includes a direction-of-travel arrow, rotating bezel and map scales. It is useful for taking bearings, following routes and checking your position on walks from camp.
A baseplate compass is designed for general navigation with a map, while a sighting compass helps you take more precise bearings to visible landmarks. If you mainly want straightforward campsite-to-trail navigation, a baseplate model is often easier to use; for more careful bearing work, a sighting design may be worth considering.
Adjustable declination can be helpful if you regularly navigate with maps and want to account for the difference between magnetic north and grid north. Casual users may manage with a standard compass and map guidance, but more confident navigators may prefer the convenience of built-in adjustment.
Small compasses can be useful as a quick reference or back-up, but they are usually less suitable for detailed map navigation than a full baseplate or sighting compass. For serious route finding, look for a clear needle, stable housing and features that support accurate bearings.
Compare the compass style, bezel markings, needle stability, map scales, luminous details, lanyard attachment and overall size. Also consider whether you will use it mainly for learning navigation, regular hiking from camp, emergency back-up or more precise outdoor route planning.
A good compass is a simple but important part of a camping navigation kit. The right choice depends on how you use maps, how much precision you need and whether the compass is for regular route finding or occasional back-up.
Baseplate compasses are a popular choice for walkers and campers because they are light, flat and easy to use with paper maps. Look for a clear base, rotating bezel and easy-to-read markings if you plan to practise bearings and route planning.
Sighting compasses are better suited to taking bearings on distant landmarks, while compact pocket compasses work best as simple direction checks. Lensatic-style designs may appeal to users who prefer a more rugged, enclosed format.
For campsite use, short walks and general orientation, a straightforward compass may be enough. If you expect to navigate across open ground, in poor visibility or on unfamiliar routes, prioritise accuracy, stability and map-friendly features.
Campers building a broader outdoor kit may also want to compare navigation essentials alongside other camping equipment, so the compass fits neatly with the way they pack and travel.
Useful map-reading details include a transparent baseplate, direction-of-travel arrow, orienting lines, ruler edges and common map scales. These make it easier to line the compass up with a route and transfer bearings between map and ground.
A rotating bezel with clear degree markings helps when taking and following bearings. If you are learning navigation, choose a design that is simple to read rather than one crowded with features you will not use.
Large markings, a smooth-turning bezel and a steady needle can make a compass easier to use in changing outdoor conditions. Luminous details may help with low-light reading, although you should still carry a suitable light source when navigating after dark.
A lanyard, grippy edges or a compact protective cover can also be useful when using the compass with gloves, in wet weather or when moving between map checks.
Beginners may prefer a simple baseplate compass that supports core skills without overcomplicating the process. More experienced users might look for adjustable declination, sighting tools or more detailed scales.
Whatever your level, practise before relying on a compass outdoors. Understanding how to take a bearing, orient a map and recognise magnetic interference is just as important as choosing the right model.
Use our barcode scanner to match products instantly to find the best prices, find products with ease using our voice search and build wish lists and your favourites at the click of a button.
