Clips and biners: what is it, and should you take it with you on a trip or while backpacking?

What are clips and biners?

• A clip or biner (short for carabiner) is a small, usually metal hook with a spring mechanism that allows you to quickly clip things together.
• Clips are not intended for climbing mountains (unless you don't care about your life), but perfect for: hanging stuff, keeping stuff together, finding stuff, not losing stuff.
• Clips are used, for example, to attach your water bottle to your daypack or dirty shoes to your backpack.
• Clips are in different forms from mini key clips to sturdy D-shaped hooks, there is a clip for every job (and for every traveler who takes too much stuff).

What can you use clips and biners for when traveling and backpacking?

• Clips can be useful to attach: water bottles, sleep masks, headlamps, flip-flops, caps, towels, sunglass cases.
• Clips useful to hang: a toilet bag to a hostel hook, a mosquito net to something that is not a hook, bag on a tree, tent pole or bunk bed.
• Clips are an emergency solution for a torn zipper or broken loop, small clothesline constructions and to maintain peace between clutter and order.

When do you take clips and biners with you on a trip or while backpacking?

• Active holiday: worth considering bringing a clip or multiple clips, you can keep certain items at hand without opening your bag.
• World trip or long journey: There is always a moment during a long journey when you are glad that you have packed this small convenience in your luggage.

Where can you buy clips and biners in the world?

• You can get clips in outdoor shops and travel shops.
• Check climbing shops, when you want fancy clips.
• Market stalls, hostels or even supermarkets in backpacker areas offer often clips.
• Online or in the cheap bin at the checkout in a store. Note: not all clips are equally sturdy.