Like some of the best camping essentials, a good camping mirror leads a double life. Most of the time it’s a small durable mirror you use to shave, wash or put on makeup with. Either hanging it, standing it up or attaching it with a suction cup allows you to use it in the shower too. Look for designs that are fog-free to get the most use from it.
But in an emergency, one of these humble mirrors could save your life. The mirror is still a very effective tool for attracting attention or signaling. Simply by reflecting the sun or other light source you can be seen by rescuers from miles away.
Coghlan’s 3-way 5” x 7" mirror
Classic camping mirror with durable frame and hook
When you need a quality mirror in a sturdy, colorful plastic frame, this 5” x 7” model from Coghlan’s is perfect. There’s a unique metal hook on the back to stand it up, hang it from a tree, or clamp it on a pole. As well as helping you get ready in the morning, you can use this small mirror to signal in an emergency.
ReflectXL Shower Mirror
Large fog-free mirror with paracord lanyard
This large 7.6” x 5.6” mirror is shatterproof and will eliminate fog and shadows for a clear fog-less reflection. It has two removable stainless steel hooks and an adjustable lanyard made from five and a half feet of paracord. A waterproof backing means it will last for many camping trips.
The Shave Well Company Fog-Free Travel Mirror
Fog-free mirror with suction cup
This light durable compact 6” x 4” mirror has a suction cup so you can stick it to the wall when washing, shaving, or applying makeup. Hold the mirror under running water to equalize the temperature difference and ensure a fog-free reflection for the duration of your shower.
Luca Elf Aid Signal Mirror
Signal over long distances with this survival mirror
This military-grade mirror could save your life. It’s compact at 3” x 2” and made from strong acrylic that won’t break easily. Also included are a whistle and a load-bearing rope that’s over 16 inches long. It has a precision aiming system to help you signal accurately and comes in a box to protect it from scratches.
Bottom line
You can trust Advnture Our expert reviewers spend days testing and comparing gear so you know how it will perform out in the real world. Find out more about how we test and compare products.
A camping mirror is an essential accessory that everyone needs in their backpack. Useful every day for washing and shaving, it comes into its own if you need to signal for help. Make sure you get a durable mirror and it won’t let you down. We recommend Coghlan’s 3-way 5” x 7" mirror for a dependable mirror that will perform well and easily fits in your kit.
For a serious signaling mirror, the Luca Elf Aid Signal Mirror is military-grade and comes with a clever lanyard with a built-in whistle.
