Meritline Camping Gear Video Review: Can Something So Cheap Be Useful?

Published
Meritline items are notoriously inexpensive. They're so cheap that you probably wonder if the items will work at all. Well, we were wondering exactly that too, so we sent our intrepid camper, Jeff Somogyi, out to test their worthiness.

For the full results of his tests, watch the video! Then, if something catches your eye, check out the featured products below. Select items receive additional discounts via our exclusive coupon code "MLCDEALNEWS9A", so you can nab them for ridiculously low prices. Plus, each receives free shipping. The gear:


11-LED Camping Lantern for $4.99
PROS: Ultra portable and small. Gives off ample light, for its size.
CONS: Casts a harsh, blue-tinted light.

Hand Squeeze Dynamo 3-LED Flashlight for $2.49 via "MLCDEALNEWS9A"
PROS: No batteries required.
CONS: Action required to charge it is a bit loud and may wake up other campers.

Commando Wire Saw for $2.29 via "MLCDEALNEWS9A"
PROS: Actually cuts through branches and wood.
CONS: Requires a lot of exertion.

Wilderness Survival Flint Steel Fire Striker with Bottle Opener for $2.49 via "MLCDEALNEWS9A"
PROS: Creates sparks and opens bottles.
CONS: Attached lanyard is too short for easy operation (but it can be removed).

Stainless Steel Collapsible Travel Cup for $3.19 via "MLCDEALNEWS9A"
PROS: Holds water. Brings a little civility to the wilderness.
CONS: Very "clang-y" (which may be seen as a pro, since it might drive bears away). Fairly bulky to carry, for what it does (especially if you want to pack light).

3-in-1 Whistle with Compass and Thermometer for $1.19 via "MLCDEALNEWS9A"
PROS: Puts three useful camping gadgets into one, small package.
CONS: Thermometer is in Celsius.

11-in-1 Stainless Steel Credit Card Survival Tool (currently out of stock)
PROS: It really is small enough to fit in your wallet (in fact, it's smaller than a credit card).
CONS: Not quite useful in surviving, as most of the tools are too small / not appropriate enough to be effective in a camping situation.

Wireless Welcome Sensor Door Bell for $2.49 via "MLCDEALNEWS9A"
PROS: Has a motion-sensitive setting. Chime is loud.
CONS: No easy way to attach to a door. Might be too motion sensitive.

Overall, for the majority of these items, the pros outweigh the cons — especially when you consider the price. For specific uses, we would recommend all of them with the exception of the 11-in-1 Stainless Steel Credit Card Survival Tool. (You'll be happier with a Leatherman, or similar multi-tool.) Happy Camping!

Coupon expires September 30. Out of stock items frequently come back in stock, so check back often.


Jeff Somogyi is the dealnews Media Editor. He loves camping (except for the bears, bugs, woods, rocks, tents, food, and being out-of-doors). For more of his reviews and humor, follow him on Twitter or read his blog.
DealNews may be compensated by companies mentioned in this article. Please note that, although prices sometimes fluctuate or expire unexpectedly, all products and deals mentioned in this feature were available at the lowest total price we could find at the time of publication (unless otherwise specified).

Comments

Leave a comment!

or Register
3 comments
Dan de Grandpre (DealNews)
Okay, that was completely awesome.
ninjaclerk
Awesome review. "A wrench for camping on Cybertron..."
Broseman
Jeff is terrific and very funny. More reviews from Jeff please!