50+ Best Gifts For Hikers and Campers (2025 Gift Guide)

2025 Hiker and Camper Gift Guide
Are you shopping for someone who loves the outdoors? You’ve come to the right place, as the ultimate gifts for hikers and campers are all listed here!
Don’t have time to read the whole article? Check out my top 3 picks: Therm-a-Rest Z Seat, Insulated Camp Booties and the Garmin In-Reach Mini 2.

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About This Gift Guide
Coming up with thoughtful and unique gift ideas is always a challenging task. Plus, when the receiver’s hobbies are hiking and camping, they probably have quite specific gear preferences and already own most of the essential equipment for these activities. This can make them very hard to buy for.
On top of this, given how oversaturated the outdoors industry is now, there are so many different products available to sift through. This makes it difficult to find items which are actually useful, and adds another hurdle to buying gifts for hikers and campers.
As an avid hiker, camper and backpacker myself, I’ve spent a lot of time trying, testing and searching for the best products for my outdoors adventures. Plus, I have a lot of outdoorsy friends, so I’m no stranger to buying for outdoors enthusiasts.
My approach to gift giving is to look for items that are thoughtful, unique and suit the receiver’s interests and hobbies. And I always try to give things which they will actually use and appreciate. Therefore, this guide comprises some of the best essential gear currently on the market, game-changing luxury items, and new gear which your hiking and camping friend probably doesn’t own yet.
In putting together this gift guide, I’ve only included products that I personally own, have gifted to others, or would love to receive myself. And, I’ve made sure the list includes items at various price points, so there are options to suit any budget.
Best Gifts for Hikers and Campers
1. Insulated Camp Booties

One of the best things I’ve invested in for camping recently are a pair of insulated camp slippers. After a long day of hiking there’s nothing better than putting these on!
Insulated slippers or booties are incredibly warm and comfortable. Plus, they’re super lightweight and packable, so they’re perfect for backpacking trips when you need to keep your pack weight down.
There are plenty of great insulated booties and slippers on the market at the moment. But these ones from The North Face are especially useful since they have a durable sole and are water resistant. So they make a particularly good camp shoe, and are one of the favourite gifts for campers and hikers!
2. Therm-a-Rest Z Seat
The Therm-a-Rest Z seat is one of my all time favourite hiking and camping accessories. It comes with me on all my backcountry adventures!
It’s a sitting pad which is extremely lightweight (60 grams), super comfortable, and has so many uses. For anyone who doesn’t have the space to pack a camp chair, I would consider this an essential item. And, even when I do take my camp chair with me, I still pack my Z seat as well, because it adds no weight and still gets plenty of use.
Not only does this seat make sitting on logs, rocks or the ground way more comfortable, but it can also be used for so many other things around camp. I’ve used mine to stand on while getting changed, to kneel on while repacking my bag, for extra warmth under my sleeping pad, and as a door mat for my tent.
This is one item I’m certain every hiker and camper will appreciate and find a use for!
3. Garmin In-Reach Mini 2

When going on outdoor adventures, safety should always be a priority. This is especially important when hiking or camping in the backcountry.
One of the best ways to stay safe is to carry a satellite communications device. But, as they aren’t cheap, it isn’t something every backcountry adventurer has invested in already.
In particular, I recommend the Garmin In-Reach Mini 2, especially for hikers who go on multi-day treks. This is the communicator I use. Luckily I haven’t had to use it in an emergency yet, but it’s been super helpful for staying in touch with family, checking the weather and for peace of mind while backpacking.
The In-Reach Mini is a tiny but powerful device and is consistently voted as the best satellite communicator on the market. And for good reason – it’s one of the most compact, lightweight and functional standalone safety devices available.
4. Collapsible Camp Kitchen

One of the most practical items I own for backpacking is my collapsible camp kitchen set from Sea to Summit.
This set includes two full-size bowls and mugs, and a 750ml pot, which all packs down flat, taking up hardly any room in your backpack. And its all made from food-grade, heat-resistant silicone, which is durable and safe. This set is the ideal gift for anyone who might be ready to upgrade their camping equipment!
If you don’t want to buy the whole set, Sea to Summit also sell these items individually. Plus, they have a range of other collapsible products such as larger bowls and pots, plates and storage containers, which also make great gifts for hikers and campers.
5. Ultralight Camping Chair

A true luxury item for backpacking (which is worth the extra weight in your pack) is an ultralight camp chair. These days, this is one item I consider essential on backcountry trips in areas with more primitive campsites. And it is one of my favourite gifts for backpackers.
When there aren’t any picnic tables or benches, having a comfortable chair to sit in is a true game changer. Plus, these chairs also come in handy at the beach, on fishing trips and on day hikes.
Two of the best and lightest chairs available at the moment are the Helinox Chair Zero and the Big Agnes Skyline UL Ultralight Backpacking Chair. For such compact and lightweight chairs, they’re exceptionally comfortable and sturdy!
Or, for a more budget friendly option, check out the ultralight TREKOLOGY and Naturehike chairs on Amazon.
6. Titanium French Press

Is there anything better than a fresh cup of coffee in the morning? If your hiking or camping friend is anything like me, then they would agree that probably not. After all, it’s the little things that we appreciate most in the backcountry!
But this can be difficult to achieve the perfect brew without access to a kitchen. This means most of us resort to instant coffee while backpacking and camping, which just isn’t the same.
A popular solution until now has been the Aeropress. But this still comes with its downsides – it’s a little fiddly, requires filters and it only brews 1 cup at a time. Luckily, there is a better solution – a Titanium French Press, which is compact, lightweight and makes coffee just as good as at home.
This French press comes with a 750ml lightweight titanium pot, which can be used on its own, as a large mug, or with the removable French press. I already own a titanium pot and mug, which have served me really well. So I’m excited to try the French press attachment next, and I’m sure any other hiking and camping coffee-lovers will be too!
7. BAERSkin Tactical Hoodie 3.0
Something we recently tested and loved for staying warm in the outdoors is the new BAERSkin Tactical Hoodie 3.0. (with designs for both men and women). Although technically a hoodie, it’s more like a cross between a sweater and a jacket, as it’s much more heavy duty than a standard hoodie, but just as comfortable.
It’s also ridiculously warm and windproof, thanks to its brushed and napped fleece, adjustable cuffs and waist, and extra layer behind the zipper. But, what we like most about this hoodie is that it has pockets everywhere! This means you can easily stash pretty much everything you need on you.
The Tactical Hoodie is ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities including camping, foraging, hunting, hiking, horseback riding and fishing. Plus, it’s also smart-enough to wear in the city, and is a great shoulder season jacket for everyday wear. This makes it one of the most versatile items on this list, and a great gift idea for anyone who spends time outside.
8. Trail Running Vest

Trail running vests have been growing in popularity recently, and not just for running! This is actually a great piece of gear for anyone who loves hiking.
Hiking with a vest means you can carry just the essentials, without a pack weighing you down. The weight distribution and fit ensures you stay as comfortable as possible and have freedom of movement throughout the day. And with various useful pockets, you can fit your water, snacks, emergency items, and extra layer.
There are plenty of running vests on the market at the moment. Osprey, Salomon and lululemon all make excellent quality and functional ones, which are all around a similar price point. But you can also find plenty of cheaper brands on Amazon, which work really well too.
I recently purchased one from AONIJIE on Amazon, which is super lightweight, breathable and comfortable!
9. lululemon Hiking Pants or Tights
Although they’re typically known for their yoga and running gear, lululemon have recently entered the hiking market with some of the best apparel available. In particular, their hiking pants have been a huge hit (for both men and women).
Not only are they exceptionally stylish hiking pants, they’re also super comfortable, functional and durable. lululemon currently have a range of hiking leggings, shorts and cargo pants in stock – all of which are giving other brands a run for their money.
My favourite is the convertible high-rise hiking jogger, which doubles up as a cute pair of shorts. These are what I wore throughout most of my time hiking and traveling South America, and they served me really well. Although this particular style is only available seasonally, so keep an eye out for them to re-appear in the spring.
In the meantime, you can’t go wrong with a pair of their Cargo Super-High-Rise Hiking Tights for women, or the Classic Fit Hiking Pant for men.
Something to note is that lululemon’s hiking range is seasonal. So, once this season’s items have sold out, you may not be able to find them on the website again until the next hiking season.
10. Darn Tough Socks

Without a doubt, Darn Tough socks are the best hiking socks on the market. And they’re an item every hiker will appreciate. So they make for an excellent small gift or stocking stuffer.
True to their name, these socks are extremely tough. In fact, they even come with a LIFETIME warranty, meaning that if they EVER get any holes in them, they can be replaced for free! This also makes them the best value gift you’ll ever buy, as they will actually last a lifetime.
In addition to being the toughest socks out there, they’re also super comfortable and come in a range of cuts, colours and fun patterns. The Micro Crew Midweight style is my favourite for hiking. And I also really love wearing their running socks with trail shoes.
11. Teva Original Universal Sandals

One of the most practical and popular pair of shoes with hikers and campers are the Teva Original Universal Sandals. They’re lightweight, durable and they stay on your feet, making them an excellent camp shoe or hiking sandal.
Plus they’re super comfortable–I’ve never gotten blisters or sore feet from wearing mine.
I often take mine on paddling or hiking trips to wear as water shoes when needed, and as camp shoes in the evening. Plus, if there’s not enough space for them inside my pack, they’re easy to attach to the outside.
You can’t go wrong with a pair of Tevas!
12. Annual Parks Pass

If you’re not quite sure what gear to give, then give the gift of the outdoors instead. Many national and local parks around the world require visitors to purchase a pass for admission. This applies to national parks in the US and Canada, as well as many regional and provincial parks.
Giving a parks pass is also a safe bet, as you know your hiking or camping friend will use and appreciate it. So this is a great option if you’re stuck on what to get.
13. GoPro HERO13 Black

For aspiring outdoor film makers, or anyone looking to capture some memories on trail, a GoPro HERO13 is one of the best gifts you could give.
This compact and rugged action camera is designed to withstand the elements, making it perfect for filming backcountry adventures in any conditions. It’s completely waterproof and has 5.3K video capabilities and advanced image stabilization, ensuring crystal-clear footage even in challenging terrain.
This is without a doubt the best action camera on the market and is the ideal gift for anyone looking to capture their outdoor pursuits.
14. Water Shoes

Water shoes are a total game-changer for anyone outdoorsy. But you won’t realize by how much until you own a pair, which is why they’re such a great gift to give!
When you think of water shoes, you probably envisage a pair of rubber socks or ugly sandals. But they actually come in a range of styles, including some which look just like regular sneakers. These are what I have and they are one of my favourite pieces of outdoor apparel.
Water shoes are particularly useful on hiking trips with water crossings. They’re comfortable, breathable, quick-drying, and they provide good grip and protection on rocky and rough surfaces. Plus they can double up as camp shoes in the evenings and are extremely lightweight and packable, making them a great investment for backpackers.
15. Lightweight Hammock

There’s nothing quite like relaxing at camp in a hammock!
A hammock is an excellent gift idea for frontcountry campers. But, it’s almost better for backcountry campers, as there are some excellent lightweight hammocks on the market, which won’t take up much pack weight or space.
Plus, there are two-person hammocks available. So if the hiker or camper you’re thinking of is your significant other, this is a great option which you can both enjoy relaxing in together.
16. Cork Massage Ball
If you’re looking for thoughtful stocking stuffers or small gifts for backpackers, a cork massage ball is a great option.
Similar to a Lacrosse ball (but much lighter making it easily packable for multi-day hikes), this handy little massager helps to release muscle tension, tight tissue and knots.
This will come in especially handy after a long day of hiking with a heavy pack, providing some much needed massage and pain relief for sore muscles and feet.
17. Merino Wool Base Layer

When it comes to dressing for the outdoors, you can’t go wrong with a merino wool base layer. They’re comfortable, super soft, warm, lightweight, quick-drying and odor resistant. They make a great base layer for hiking, and they’re also ideal to wear at camp and sleep in to stay warm overnight.
In particular, I love the half-zip design, as it provides some extra warmth around your neck and the zip helps regulate your temperature as you get warmer and colder. Plus it looks great, and I often wear mine as a sweater!
The best merino wool layers available are without a doubt Smartwool. They are on the pricier end. But this makes them a great gift to give, as they’re not something most hikers and campers splurge on regularly.
However, lululemon have also come out with their own version recently which is also really highly rated and a little more budget-friendly. The lululemon version is actually a merino wool blend. But it’s exceptionally functional with thumb holes and a lightweight technical design which is ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities.
18. Teton Sports Camp Pillow

With the right gear, camping doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. And something that can considerably improve comfort is having a REAL pillow.
I’ve tried a few different camp pillows over the years, but the Teton Sports Camp Pillow is my absolute favourite. It’s just like a smaller version of a real pillow and is way more comfortable than inflatable camp pillows. Plus it’s easy to take on multi-day hiking trips as it’s lightweight and packs down to about the same size as a water bottle.
This is a small but thoughtful gift which will definitely be appreciated, as it will hugely improve your outdoorsy friend’s camping experience.
19. Katadyn BeFree Water Filter

Another piece of gear which makes a great gift for hikers and campers is the Katadyn BeFree Water Filter. This handy little filter is my absolute favourite one to use when backpacking. It’s collapsible, and is one of the most compact filters on the market. Plus it filters water so quickly, at up to 2 litres per minute!
And you can drink straight from it, so it can also be used as an additional water bottle. I typically filter the water into my big 1.5 litre Nalgene water bottle. But if I won’t come across a water source for a while, or to save having to fill up my water regularly at camp, I will store extra water in my Katadyn.
20. NOCS Provisions Waterproof Binoculars
For anyone who enjoys spending time in nature, consider getting them a pair of binoculars. This is a great luxury item to take into the outdoors, to better spot wildlife and take in views which otherwise would have been difficult to appreciate with the naked eye!
In particular, these waterproof binoculars by NOCS Provisions are fantastic as they’re lightweight, highly durable and can withstand all weather conditions.
And don’t be fooled by their tiny size. These binoculars are just as powerful as many of their bigger counterparts, with the advantage of being easily packable for hiking adventures.
21. MSR Hubba Hubba 2

If you’re looking to be extra generous, a great gift idea is to upgrade your friend’s camping equipment to newer and better quality gear.
In particular, MSR have recently brought out a new model of their popular Hubba Hubba tent. This is arguably the best lightweight backpacking tent on the market, and a big upgrade from the previous version.
The new Hubba Hubba is considerably lighter than the previous version, without compromising on features. And, although it has some tight competition, it continues to surpass its competitors in terms of durability, functionality and comfort.
I am still using an old 2-person Hubba Hubba (which is also a great tent). However, I would love to upgrade to the newer model, in the 3-person version, as it’s the same weight as the old 2-person one, but would give my partner and I a lot more space.
22. Platypus Flexible Wine Bottle
If you’re looking for a practical and fun stocking stuffer, consider a flexible wine bottle!
Glass usually isn’t allowed in the backcountry. And a bottle of wine is way too heavy to take hiking anyway. So this is the ideal small gift for any hikers and backpackers who love to indulge in a glass of wine at camp.
This flexible wine bottle by Platypus is one of the sturdiest available and fits a full bottle of wine. Once it’s finished, the pouch can be rolled up, taking up barely any space in the pack, and weighing almost nothing. Plus it’s reusable!
If you want to be extra generous, you can even fill it up with their favourite bottle of wine, so it’s ready to go for their next camping trip.
23. Titanium Long Spork
A titanium long spork is another great stocking stuffer or small gift idea. This handy little item is perfect for multi-day hikers as it’s lightweight, versatile and the only utensil they will need!
Titanium is a very light and durable metal, meaning it will barely add any weight to their pack, and it won’t risk breaking like other lightweight materials, such as plastic.
This spork can be used for eating anything, cooking and making hot drinks. And, as it has a long handle, it’s ideal for ultra-light backpackers who prefer to skip the dishes and eat their dehydrated meals straight from the bag.
24. Reusable Pee Cloth

This one is for the ladies. Although this may seem a little too intimate to gift, a reusable pee cloth is actually one of the most practical gifts for female hikers and campers.
Its antimicrobial, absorbent and compact design provides a hygienic solution for bathroom breaks in the wild. And the attached snap loop allows her to fold it closed and attach it to her pack, where it stays clean and easily accessible.
This eco-friendly gift idea is particularly great for women who are committed to sustainable practices and value both convenience and environmental responsibility. Plus, they comes in a range of cute and colourful designs!
25. AllTrails+ Gift Subscription

These days there is an app for everything. And exploring the outdoors is no exception. Out of all the outdoorsy apps available, AllTrails is the go-to app for most hikers and backpackers. Although there is a free version which is already pretty great, an AllTrails+ subscription really steps things up.
Not only will your hiking friend be able to track their outdoor activities using the app. But they will also be able to search for trails nearby, create custom routes, use the built-in navigation tools to stay on track, and prepare for their outdoor adventures with detailed 3D maps.
You can easily gift an annual AllTrails+ subscription by buying a gift card for just $35!
26. Dirty Gourmet Cookbook
If you know someone who would appreciate spicing up their camping meals, this cookbook will be right up their alley. Dirty Gourmet: Food for Your Outdoor Adventures is the creation of three outdoorsy friends, Aimee Trudeau, Emily Nielson and Mai-Yan Kwan.
Following some of their bigger outdoor escapades, the three women identified the need for more flavourful and modern backcountry meals, and joined forces to create the ultimate camping cookbook.
This cookbook is full of simple and delicious recipes to elevate camping meals for backpacking or car camping. And it makes a wonderful gift for anyone whose sick of relying on dehydrated meals and ramen noodles in the backcountry!
27. Hooded Sun Shirt
Help your outdoorsy friend stay sun safe with a hooded sun shirt. This versatile piece of apparel is ideal for thru-hikers, backpackers and warm weather day hikers.
Sun hoodies are designed to offer UV protection and keep you cool in the sun. But they also offer warmth in cooler temperatures and wind, and are moisture-wicking, breathable and quick-drying, making them ideal for hiking. They’re also extremely lightweight, adding to their comfort and making them an easy item to pack.
These have been gaining a lot of popularity recently. And most people who have made the switch to wearing sun hoodies argue that they’re a game-changer for hiking.
28. Shatterproof Compact Mirror

Another small but practical gift which makes for an excellent stocking stuffer is a shatterproof compact mirror. These handy little mirrors are made from stainless steel, but they’re so well polished that the reflection is just as clear as a glass mirror. They come in a little protective case and only weigh 90 grams, so are easy to pack and carry.
I always carry one on multi-day trips. It’s especially helpful for getting contacts in and out, making sure I’ve properly applied sunscreen, or in case I get something in my eye. And it can also be used as an emergency signalling device if the worst were to happen.
29. Birkenstock Arizona EVA Sandals

As an alternative to classic Tevas, the new Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA are my new favourite camp shoes. And I would highly recommend them as a gift for anyone who enjoys camping and backpacking.
EVA is a synthetical lightweight and waterproof material which is perfect for outdoor activities. These are the lightest shoes I’ve ever owned, weighing in at only 6 oz, making them ideal to take on multi-day hikes. And they’re completely waterproof, extremely durable, easy to clean and super comfortable.
Plus, they slide on and off easily, making them super practical for getting in and out of your tent. And they come in cool colours, so this can also be a fun gift to give!
30. Collapsible Fishing Rod

If you know someone who enjoys coastal hikes, canoe trips or lakeside camping, then a collapsible fishing rod is a particularly useful and thoughtful gift.
Fishing is a great activity to do when camping. And there’s nothing more satisfying than catching your own dinner to cook over a camp fire. Even if the outdoorsy person you’re thinking of doesn’t have much experience fishing, it’s an easy activity to pick up, and could quickly become part of their camping routine.
I have a collapsible fishing rod and it’s the perfect size to pack on a canoeing or hiking backpacking trip. It takes up hardly any space in my pack and is easy to assemble and disassemble.
31. Original Ecostretch Buff

One of the most useful and reliable gifts for hikers is a simple neck gaiter. In particular, you can’t go wrong with an Original Ecostretch Buff.
This classic buff is so versatile that many hikers even consider it a backcountry essential. There are 12 different ways to wear it, with uses suitable for both cold and warm weather. Plus, it’s quick-drying, moisture-wicking, lightweight and breathable. And it provides UPF 50+ sun protection!
And it comes in a wide range of fun colours and patterns, so there’s bound to be one that suits her personality and style.
32. Waterproof Kindle

One of the best ways to relax at camp is with a good book. But it’s not always practical to take one with you. They can easily get damaged or wet and are too bulky and heavy to carry on multi-day backcountry trips.
Luckily, there’s a practical solution – the Kindle Paperwhite.
The new Kindle is compact and lightweight (it only weighs 205 grams), it has a larger glare-free display, 10 weeks of battery life and can store thousands of books. Plus, it’s waterproof, which makes it ideal for hiking and camping in any conditions.
33. Nalgene Water Bottle 48oz
Nalgene bottles have been popular hiking water bottles for a long time now. However, most hikers use the 32 oz (1 Litre) version. While this is a great bottle, the less-common 48 oz (1.5 Litre) version is much more practical.
The larger Nalgene only weighs one ounce more, and fits into the same pocket or water bottle holder as the smaller version. But having the ability to carry 50% more water is crucial when hiking on hot days or in areas without frequent water sources. And it’s also convenient to have extra water at the ready when at camp!
If your hiking friend already has a Nalgene water bottle, they may not be able to justify buying another one in the larger size. Therefore, this makes a great small gift.
34. Snowshoes

Hiking isn’t an activity that has to be reserved for the summer. With a pair of snowshoes, the hiker you know will be able to continue exploring the trails throughout the winter.
Fortunately, snowshoes aren’t a very expensive piece of equipment to buy. And, if your hiker friend doesn’t already own a pair, they make an excellent gift.
A pair of snowshoes won’t break the bank but are still quite a sizeable item to give. And they’re they will help your hiking friend enjoy the trails all year round!
35. MSR 10 Litre Backcountry Gravity Filter
Having water on tap is a luxury most of us take for granted. When camping in the backcountry, you’re constantly having to gather water from a nearby water source and filter it before drinking.
However, it is possible to set yourself up with clean water on tap, right at camp. And the MSR 10 Litre Backcountry Gravity Filter does just that.
With a 10 Litre (2.6 gallon) capacity, the MSR can hold enough water for all your drinking, cooking and cleaning needs at camp, with very little effort. Fill the bag up once from your water source, then hang it from a tree and gravity takes care of the rest, filtering the water for you. It’s amazing how much time this saves!
This filter makes an excellent gift for anyone who likes comfort at camp, by removing one of the most tedious camp chores.
36. Food Dehydrator

A food dehydrator is a useful and unique gift idea for a hiker who also enjoys cooking.
The one downside to multi-day backcountry trips is that we usually have to rely on a diet of overpriced dehydrated meals and ramen noodles. Not only does the cost of these items add up, but they often lack nutrition, flavour and variety. However, a food dehydrator will help to mix things up with delicious home cooked meals in the backcountry!
With a dehydrator, they will be be able to dehydrate their favourite recipes, packed full of flavour and nutrition. Plus, they can make their own healthy backcountry snacks, such as fruit roll-ups, beef jerky and veggie chips.
37. Fast and Free Fleece Ear Warmer
Staying warm and comfortable while hiking is essential. But this can be difficult to do with changing temperatures, unpredictable weather and varying altitudes.
One of the best ways to retain body heat is by keeping your head covered. Most hikers will wear a hat or buff to keep their head warm, but these can quickly get too hot while on the move. Therefore, an ear warmer is a great alternative, keeping your ears covered while letting your head breathe. In fact, this is my favourite type of headwear for all outdoor activities in the cold!
Although it was initially designed for running, the lululemon unisex Fast and Free Fleece Ear Warmer is ideal for hiking. It’s super warm, reversible, water-repellant, provides just the right amount of coverage and is snug but comfortable. And for those with long hair, it even has a slit at the back for your ponytail!
This is a practical piece of apparel which your hiking friend might not have thought of themselves, making it a great gift idea.
38. Solar Power Bank

One of the most practical camping gifts is a portable power bank. In particular, a solar power bank is ideal for anyone who enjoys heading into the backcountry for longer periods. This will ensure they never run out of power and can keep all their devices charged as they explore the great outdoors.
In particular, this power bank from Riapow is a great pick, since it’s one of the most compact, durable and highly rated ones on the market. And it has some pretty cool features, including 4 outputs, wireless charging and a built-in flashlight with steady-flashing SOS mode, so it doubles up as a safety device.
39. Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Smartwatch
When it comes to gadgets, a smartwatch is one of those gifts all hikers will appreciate. And out of all the smartwatches on the market, it’s hard to beat a Garmin.
Garmin’s range of smartwatches include everyday fitness trackers, high-performance watches, and hybrids. One thing they all have in common is that they combine a wide range of fitness and adventure features into one sleek watch. They can track hikes, help navigate and store maps and music.
In particular, the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar is considered the best hiking smart watch on the market. It has an extensive battery life with solar charging, so it won’t run out of juice on the trail. It’s built to military standard, so it’s exceptionally rugged. And it has a multiple built-in navigation features and satellite systems, to ensure safety.
40. Osprey Daylite Everyday Backpack

A good quality backpack seems like one of the most logical gifts for hikers.
However, it’s not always that simple. Hiking packs – especially for multi-day hikes – tend to be quite a personal choice. Size and weight preferences will all vary from person to person – some hikers value ultralight gear, whereas others prefer to be more comfortable. And finding the right fitting pack can be difficult, as everyones body shape is different.
Therefore, it can be challenging to find a suitable backpack to gift. I would recommend staying away from technical packs and backpacks designed for multi-day hikes. Instead, the Osprey Daylite Everyday Backpack is always a safe bet to give as a gift. This is one of the best day packs in terms of quality, versatility, design and comfort, and generally suits everyone.
With multiple pockets, space for a hydration reservoir, and dual side mesh pockets, there’s plenty of space for everything you would need on a day hike. Plus, Osprey’s mesh-covered foam back panel, compression straps and hip belt, ensure the pack sits comfortably all day.
41. The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs

One of the best gifts for anyone outdoorsy is Tristan Gooley’s The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs. This book explains a wide range of outdoor skills and how to decipher nature’s clues in surprising detail.
On top of being a really handy book, it’s also a very interesting and entertaining read. Drawing from his extensive experience exploring landscapes around the world, Gooley shares over 850 practical tips for predicting, tracking, and finding your way in the wild.
Whether you’re hiking through the mountains, walking along a coastline, or exploring the night sky, this guide unveils the secrets of what the land, sun, moon, stars, plants, animals, and clouds can reveal, if you only know what to look for!
42. Nemo Tensor Sleeping Pad

For a comfortable night’s sleep under the stars, it’s essential to have a good sleeping pad. But for many backpackers this can be difficult to achieve, as they often have to sacrifice their comfort to keep their pack weight down on long hikes. However, there are some excellent lightweight sleeping pads currently available.
I recently upgraded to the Nemo Tensor sleeping pad and it made the world of difference. This is the most comfortable sleeping pad I’ve ever owned, and it works perfectly for me as a side sleeper. This pad provides 3 inches of supportive cushioning, weight distribution and stability, and only weighs 1-1.5 pounds (depending on size).
No matter how much I toss and turn, my body never touches the ground. Plus this pad is very lightweight, quiet and easy to inflate with the included pump sack. So, based on my experience, this is one of my top recommendations.
43. Photography Camera

With anyone who enjoys spending time in nature, there’s a good chance they also love capturing it.
Although phone cameras can produce excellent quality photos, there is nothing quite like using a standalone camera. Even an entry level photography camera is a huge upgrade for hobby photographers.
The image quality, resolution and settings of a real camera are simply superior. And this is especially important when it comes to capturing nature, landscapes and animals.
A camera is a thoughtful gift which can lead to more captured memories, new photography skills, and even discovering a new passion!
44. Rechargeable Hand Warmers

Enjoying the outdoors doesn’t have to be reserved for the summer. But staying warm outside in the colder months can be difficult. But, a pair of rechargeable hand warmers can change this, making them an excellent gift or stocking stuffer for anyone outdoorsy.
These sturdy little gadgets can be tucked into gloves, or kept in pockets, providing up to 12 hours of heat! They’re ideal for keeping warm while snowshoeing, hiking or walking in winter. And, they can also help keep other electronics, like phones, from getting too cold and switching off in freezing temperatures.
45. Hiking Guide Book
If the hiker you know has a specific hike or region on their bucket list, help inspire or prepare them by gifting them a hiking guide book.
You will be able to find guide books covering all iconic hiking destinations and major hikes around the world. Some aim to provide inspiration with more general information and lists of the world’s best hikes, from easy day hikes to multi-day expeditions. Whereas others are more detailed guides on preparing for and completing difficult trails.
Therefore, no matter the type of hiking your friend is interested in, there is likely a guide book out there which they will appreciate.
46. Microfibre Travel Towel
One of the most failsafe gifts you can get an outdoorsy friend is a microfibre travel towel.
As it’s super compact and lightweight, this is the only type of towel most backpackers and campers use in the backcountry. Plus, it has many uses.
It can be a matt to stand on while changing, a protective layer under a sleeping pad, used to dry off condensation inside the tent, or something comfortable to sit on (and more). Therefore, this is one gift any hiker or camper will appreciate and actually use.
47. Dehydrated Backpacking Meals
One of the most difficult parts of backpacking for many hikers is planning the food. When preparing food for a multi-day hike, you have to consider weight, volume, nutrition and calories. And, on top of this, you will be cooking on a small backpacking stove with limited gas.
Although we all love a bowl of instant ramen noodles in the backcountry, the best option overall is dehydrated backpacking meals. They’re compact and lightweight, but packed full of the nutrition, protein and calories you need for hiking. And all you have to do is fill the bag up with hot water and wait a few minutes, making it the easiest backcountry dinner possible.
However, the downside is that backpacking meals are very expensive. Therefore, they make an excellent gift for anyone you know who plans to do some multi-day hiking in the future!
My favourite brand of backpacking meals, which I would highly recommend, is Peak Refuel. They’re full of flavour and are some of the highest protein dehydrated meals I’ve come across.
48. JBL Endurance Race True Wireless Earbuds

When camping and hiking for long periods, it can be nice to have something to listen to. In particular, listening to an audiobook or podcast is my favourite way to fall asleep while camping.
But to avoid disrupting others or ruining the peace and quiet of your surroundings, the best way to listed to audio is with headphones. In particular, the JBL Endurance Race True Wireless Earbuds are a great option for hiking and camping, and would make an excellent gift for an outdoorsy person.
Not only are they designed for on the move, but they also come with an extremely long battery life, are waterproof and exceptionally durable. Plus, they’re a mid-priced option so they won’t break the bank!
49. Swiss Army Pocket Knife
You never know what tools you might need while hiking or camping. To be prepared for anything, it’s a great idea to carry a small multi-tool on all outdoor adventures. And you can’t go wrong with a classic Swiss Army Knife.
This handy little tool is one of the most useful gifts for outdoor adventurers. It hardly takes up any space and can help you prepare food, repair gear, open or tighten things, treat wounds, and much more!
50. Mountaineering Sunglasses

If the outdoorsy person you know likes to hike in the mountains, then consider giving them a pair of mountaineering sunglasses. Not only will these protect their eyes from the elements and glare at high altitude, but they also look really cool.
These ones by Julbo provide optimal protection in extreme weather, including from sun radiation and snow blindness. Plus the flexible tips mean they can be moulded around the ears, to ensure they stay in place, no matter the conditions.
I invested in a pair of mountaineering sunglasses for a hiking trip in Patagonia which was only a few weeks after I had eye surgery. These were essential in keeping my eyes safe from dust, ice, and the harsh Patagonian winds while they healed.
Final Thoughts
There are so many outdoor adventure products on the market to sift through, which can make finding the perfect gifts for hikers and campers a bit overwhelming.
But hopefully this guide has helped you to narrow down some great gift ideas. With a range of items to suit different needs, there should be something on this list which the hiker or camper you’re thinking of will appreciate, and which suits your budget.
And, maybe you’ve even come across some new gear to add to your own wish list!
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