This pocket-sized device gives short, reasonable quality filming without the added hassle of extra cables and carrybags. It connects to your computer by USB port, runs on two AA batteries, records 60 minutes of content, uploads clips online instantly and only has about five buttons so it's virtually idiot-proof. £79.99, www.play.com Photograph: Public domain
A good option for amateur/lazy campers who want a hot cup of tea without a fancy, 60-piece cooking stove or the know-how to build a successful campfire without burning down a national park. The aluminium storm kettle boils water in minutes, using a sheet of newspaper and a few twigs, or a handful of dry grass, or even dried dung. £46.75, eydonkettle.com/stormkettle.html Photograph: Public domain
It might not be the most romantic of gifts, but the reusable, machine-washable Shewee is perfect for coping with dodgy conveniences while on the road, avoiding the horrors of festival toilet seats, or for when you're caught short in the wild and don't fancy the awkward jeans-down-squat. Also ideal for disabled travellers or for use when camping and hiking off the beaten track. From £6, shewee.com Photograph: Public domain
If you're one of those people who insists on starring in all your own travel photos, you no longer need suffer the double-chin-effect you get from holding the camera at arm's length. It even has a mirror for lining up your shot – but bear in mind it won't stop you looking like an idiot while you're taking the picture. £10.00, xshotpix.com/product.html Photograph: PR
So simple, yet so brilliant – this may well be the leisurewear of the future. The Selk'bag's one downside is that it needs zipping down in order to use the toilet (surely a clever panel wouldn't have been too difficult to add?), but perhaps you could find a creative way to use it along with the Shewee to get around this minor flaw? From £89.00, lippiselkbag.co.uk/index.cfm Photograph: PR
Another one from the "gifts you never knew you needed" file, the key safe is ideal for water sports enthusiasts and campers. A safer version of hiding your car key on the rear tyre, it provides a useful place for stashing keys, money or miniscule documents while you're travelling. Just make sure it’s anchored to something big and heavy. £19.95, alt-gifts.com Photograph: Public domain
The next step from the pop-up festival tent, Samsonite's pop-up cot folds down to a compact 28x28x11cm, making it useful for parents who don't want to lug a carrycot everywhere. Also worth a mention is the Totseat, a cloth harness that functions as a high-chair adaptor for any normal adult chair. £34.99, baby-travel.com; £22.00, totseat.com/ Photograph: PR
Another gizmo proving a hit with festival-goers and campers. This portable (12x6x2cm) solar-powered device can run an iPod for 18 hours, and makes tediously cranking a wind-up charger for an hour to run your phone for twelve seconds a distant, shuddering memory. £24.95, ethicalsuperstore.com Photograph: PR
It might not scream excitement, but it’s more useful than another comedy tie or scented toiletry set, and just as cheap. Register the serial number on the Trace Me website and wherever in the world your suitcase ends up, the number can be matched to your details on the online database, ensuring a happy reunion for you and your belongings. £12.99, tracemeluggagetracker.com Photograph: PR
While there’s something invigorating about being blasted into waking life via the medium of brain-crushing bells, there is also space for a gentler eye-opener. This little number wakes you up gradually – and helps beat jet lag and combat SAD – by replicating a sunrise with its beams of natural light. £59.99, amazon.com Photograph: Public domain
