1. Remote-control lantern

If you've ever lost your torch in the tent, this ridiculously simple idea is a godsend. Simply flick the switch and, voila!, your tent will light up like a beacon. Gelert does a compact, lightweight version with a 5-LED output and a magnetic mounting bracket. A pity the range doesn't extend more than 10 metres: imagine how useful it would be at a festival.

£12.99, tinyurl.com/6b95yuu

2. Ultra-lightweight stove

Perfect for wild camping and general convenient carrying. The Primus Express TI (pictured) is a good example. Made of titanium, it is absurdly light – just 82g – and very strong, capable of handling large pots. It uses LP-gas 70/ 30 butane/propane. £40, tinyurl.com/6am7lyp

3. Solar charger

A great way to charge electronics conveniently and cleanly while you're out in the sticks – providing there's some sunshine. Brunton does one called the Restore, which is small and lightweight with a USB port for charging phones and other gadgets. It takes about the same time to charge an iPhone as it would on your PC, and a fully sun-charged Restore charges two smartphones. Leave it out on your backpack to keep it topped up.

£65, tinyurl.com/5v4p6e7

4. Waterproof pouches

Aquapac's range of watertight pockets (pictured) are designed to protect your electronics and other valuables if (should that be "when"?) you get caught in a storm. There are custom sizes for things like iPhones, laptops and keys, and even ones with plastic lenses, for small digital cameras, that work underwater. Prices vary, tinyurl.com/6jb6vf4

5. Sporks

It's a wonder these all-in-one knife, fork and spoons aren't yet ubiquitous on campsites – anything that reduces washing up or clutter has to be good. Primus makes a natty, foldable, plastic version that's easy to clean and hard-wearing. £2.10, bit.ly/gD5rO0

6. Camper-friendly wineglasses

For the camper of distinction, may we suggest these elegant and immensely practical glasses from GSI? The stems detach for easy packing, and they're super-tough. The stemless version has a "kickstand" base, so it's difficult to tip over, just like a Weeble. From £5, tinyurl.com/6gqdkbx

7. Multi-tool meal set

This outdoor kitchen set by Primus (pictured) combines two deep plates, a salt, pepper and sugar shaker, a cup, a small screwtop container (for oil or washing-up liquid), a folding spork, a storage box with a lid and a cutting board that doubles up as a colander, grater and knife. £16.50, tinyurl.com/5sx7ryo

8. Fire steels

When the lighter's wet, or empty, or lost, and you've somehow forgotten to individually coat all your matches with wax, these spark-making steels will light your stove or dry kindling in all weathers. Light My Fire and Primus both do a variety of models. From £5.99, tinyurl.com/4rt997v

9. UV water purifier

The Steripen range is a set of handheld devices that use ultraviolet radiation to kill 99.9% of germs – dead. Simply press the button and dip into a litre of clear water for 90 seconds to sterilise. From £30, steripen.com

10. Stargazing apps for your smartphone

OK – not essential, but if you're used to smog and light pollution, these can be a revelation under a clear sky. Simply point upwards to reveal the names of galaxies, stars and even passing satellites. Try Star Walk or Pocket Universe for iPhones (both £1.79), or Google SkyMap and Star Droid for Android (both free).

Packed and ready to go? Don't set off without watching our camping checklist video