100+ Best Gifts for Hikers to Buy
Hiking is one of the greatest hobbies we can think of. Over the years we have learned that it is even more enjoyable when you have the “right” equipment for your adventures. Help someone else stock up their gear with these best gifts for hikers.
Looking for good hiking gifts can sometimes be a little tricky, especially when you don’t know the hiker’s preferences. If you are trying to find something for your hiking partner or someone you are very close to, it should be a little easier to purchase what they will appreciate.
On our various hikes in New York and around the USA, we utilized a lot of hiking essentials from various brands. It is hard to believe how many mistakes we made at the beginning when it came to purchasing the right gear. But we have quickly learned.
What we appreciated more and more was quality hiking gear which was still affordable. It took us a while to upgrade our hike gear and we still have some items on our wish list.
With our hiking knowledge in mind and in consideration of the challenge of finding a matching gift, we created this gifts for hikers list.
It includes a lot of general-purpose functional presents with different price points that every hiker will love to have, as well as some of our favorite more specific apparel and clothing we use on the trails.
Make sure to also check out our list of different types of hikers at the bottom of the post to get more information about what kind of gear your hiker is looking for.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps us create free content for you to enjoy. Learn more about our disclaimer here. Thanks for your support!
Quick Recommendations: Gifts for Hikers
Don’t have enough time to read? Here is a quick look at our recommendations for the best gifts for hikers. Otherwise, scroll down to see our complete list with in-depth suggestions.
- Overall Best Gifts for Hikers – Gift Card to Outdoor Stores like REI
- Best Gifts for Hiking Under $10 – Chums Sunglasses Retainer
- Best Gift Ideas for Hikers Under $25 – Quick Dry Towels
- Best Gifts for Hikers Under $50 – Matador Pocket Blanket
- Best Hiking Gifts for Her – Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hiking Pants
- Good Hiking Gifts to Keep them Safe – First Aid Kits for Hikers
- Best Unique Gifts for Hikers – Qalo Silicone Band
- Top Tech Gadgets for Hikers – Solar Battery Pack
- Gift Ideas for Hikers Who Love to Read – Epic Hikes of the World – Lonely Planet
- Good Gifts for Hikers Who Love to Take Photos – Peak Design Capture Clip
- Best Camera for Hikers – Olympus OM-D Mark iii
- Gift Ideas for Hikers Who are National Park Lovers – America the Beautiful Pass
- Hiking Gift Ideas for Beginners – Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot
- Best Backpacks for Hikers – Deuter Hiking Backpacks – Deuter Speed Lite 22 L
- Best Gifts for Backpackers – Exped Air Mattress
- Top Water Bottles for Hikers – Hydro Flask Water Bottle
- Best Sunglasses for Hikers – Goodr Sunglasses
100+ Top Gifts for the Hiker
Let’s start diving deeper into our 100+ top gifts for a hiker. We organized the gifts into different categories (see above) to make it even easier for you to find the perfect match for the person you are looking for.
Overall Best Gifts for Hikers
1. REI Gift Card
When you are having trouble deciding on which gifts for hikers to get, you can always purchase an REI gift card.
REI is a popular outdoor store that carries a variety of quality hiking equipment, and clothing from various brands. Their staff is extremely knowledgeable and helps to find the perfect gear for you. They also offer rentals and fun outdoor classes and events.
Don’t live near an REI Store? No problem. You can easily purchase a gift card from $10 to $1,000 from the REI website.
Top Tip: For an added bonus, REI sometimes runs specials on their gift cards. When buying a gift card of a certain amount, you get an additional amount to the card free of charge.
2. Columbia Gift Card
Columbia is another popular brand for hikers. We have tons of Columbia gear from pants, tops, jackets, and our all-time favorite Newton Ridge Plus hiking boots.
What we love most about Columbia are the deals you can find on their gear which makes it more affordable.
Columbia gift cards can be purchased on Columbia’s website from $25 to $500. They can be used in stores or online.
3. Backcountry Gift Card
Backcountry is one of the top online outdoor gear and apparel stores. They offer a wide range of equipment, gear, and brands for all types of hikers.
No matter if you are looking for gift ideas for hikers who are newbies or veteran hikers, a Backcountry gift card is a great choice. We can bet almost every hiker has purchased some type of gear or apparel on the Backcountry website.
Backcountry gift cards can be purchased online from $25 to $500.
4. Moosejaw Gift Card
Besides Backcountry, there are a lot of other online outdoor gear and apparel stores. Another favorite of ours is Moosejaw for its refreshing and funny website and the great variety of products.
They also have a fantastic Rewards Program. With each purchase you make at Moosejaw, you can earn 10% Moosejaw Dollars to use for an additional purchase.
Moosejaw gift cards can be purchased on the Moosejaw website from as low as $5 to $250.
5. Alltrails Pro Subscription
Alltrails is our favorite hiking trail app and is loved by many hikers. Purchasing an Alltrail Pro subscription is sending a gift of adventure.
This is hands down one of the best gifts for hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts because of the app’s various perks. You can download hiking maps to always stay on the trails even when you are offline, create a list of your favorite hiking trails, keep track of the hikes you completed, and more.
Choose to purchase an annual subscription or a 3-year subscription to save 33%. Simply go to the Alltrails website and they will immediately send you the subscription via email.
6. Gaia GPS Subscription
An alternative to the Alltrails Pro subscription is the Gaia GPS subscription. With slightly different features and plans, this trail map app is another great choice for hiking presents.
Gaia GPS gives you all the information about the trail itself, like distance, ascent, type, and estimated time, but also provides you with other trails nearby if you can’t stop exploring the beautiful landscapes.
Before deciding on which subscription to purchase, head to the Gaia GPS Membership page to see the differences in membership options. We would suggest getting the Premium membership.
7. Hiking Subscription Box – Nomad, Cairn
There are a bunch of different options for hiking subscription boxes, however, 2 of the more popular options are Nomadik and Cairn.
Both of these good gifts for hikers are customized for your needs. Start with picking the kind of subscription you prefer, then you can customize your order by filling out a profile to receive gear more suited for you. Give a gift that keeps on giving.
- The Nomadik hiking box comes with a quarterly subscription of $149.99 (each quarter). Four times a year you will get 4-7 premium pieces of equipment from well-known brands.
- The Cairns hiking subscription box gets delivered monthly or quarterly. It is significantly cheaper at $32.99 a month, but therefore includes smaller items from the categories of apparel, gear, food and energy, skincare, and emergency.
8. National Geographics Paper Maps
Maps are great gifts for hikers because they help hikers plan out their next hiking adventure.
One of the best maps you could give is the National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps. These maps usually have the trail distances labeled on the trail segment. That makes it easy to plan how long a hike may take. Buy a map to a bucket list destination or favorite National Park.
9. State Park Passes
A State Park recreation pass is a gift that will bring joy for a whole year. This hiking gift allows you to visit your favorite state parks for free all year long. What an easy way to get hikers out on the trails any day of the year.
Since we live in New York, we are huge fans of the New York Empire Pass, which gives hikers access to all the beautiful New York State Parks trails throughout the state. Check your area and see what passes are available to take advantage of.
We are sure this will be one of the gifts for hikers they won’t be able to put down.
10. Plan a Hiking Trip
Hikers always love a hiking partner. So what would be better for the hiker than taking a hiking trip together?
Plan a hiking expedition to experience the beautiful outdoors together. This could be as simple as a day trip to some of the best hiking trails in New York, or maybe even a road trip to one of the National Parks in the U.S.
11. Complete a 52 Hike Challenge Together
The 52 Hike Challenge is one of the creative gifts for hikers. It requires the participants to complete 52 hikes in one year, which is equivalent to 1 hike per week.
You have the choice to sign up for the challenge for free with access to the challenge resources or choose one of their other packages for a small fee. Those include additional items like patches, stickers, a medal, and a journal.
Visit the 52 Hike Challenge website for more information on what this hiking gift idea entails.
Best Gifts for Hiking Under $10
12. Hydro Flask Flex Boot
A Hydro Flask Flex Boot is the best accessory for your newly purchased Hydro Flask water bottle. It is the best way to help prevent your water bottle from being damaged out on the trails.
We have been thankful for this addition to our Hydro Flask bottle more than once. As you know, water bottles can take a beating but this simple solution has saved us a few scratches.
15. Carabiners
Carabiners are a very inexpensive but extremely useful piece of equipment for hikers. You can use them to strap things on your backpack, a pants loop, on a tree, or your tent.
Carabiners can range from under $10 to much more, depending on the quality you are looking for.
We always like to carry a few different sizes of carabiners with us in our packs. You wouldn’t believe how many different ways you can find to use a carabiner.
16. Foldable Hiking Trowel
You never know when you have to go to the bathroom in the wilderness. For those unwanted times when you have to poop, a hiking trowel can help you to properly leave no trace.
Make sure you know the best practice of how to poop outdoors.
The best kind of hiking trowel is foldable, lightweight, and has a way to hang it or clip it on your backpack. Especially on our backpacking trips throughout the United States, this foldable hiking trowel has come in handy.
17. Chums Sunglasses Retainer
Don’t let your hiker lose another pair of sunglasses on their outdoor adventures. Buy them a Chums Sunglasses Retainer.
This is one of the most practical gifts for hikers and is ideal for those who love thrilling activities like rafting and climbing. The simplistic design fits most standard frames and is comfortable to wear.
This is perfect to couple with a pair of Goodr or SunGod sunglasses making it the ultimate best gift for hikers.
18. Pack of Outdoor Stickers
What outdoor person do you know who doesn’t love a good sticker? Outdoor stickers are great to display on gear such as water bottles, or to decorate your travel journal.
Since we are always on the go and traveling, we use stickers as our go-to souvenir. We get them in various stores or online from Etsy.
19. Lip Balm
We have been out hiking in all types of weather conditions and have experienced some major chapped lips.
To avoid this from happening we never go on a hike without Lip Balm. Something so small and common yet so useful and forgotten just happens to be the right hiking gift.
20. Tiger Balm
Help your hiker soothe their muscles with Tiger Balm. This pain-relieving ointment comforts hikers’ muscles and makes them stay loose and relaxed.
Now, the hiker can hit the trails again and again.
Best Gift Ideas for Hikers Under $25
22. Quick Dry Towels
As hikers, we always carry quick dry towels on our overnight hiking trips, and when there is a chance to cool down or take a swim in the water.
Quick-dry towels take up less space, are lightweight, and prevent smelly mildew from occurring from a wet towel which makes them great gifts for the hiker.
23. Sea to Summit Dry Bag
Sea to Summit has a variety of dry bags for all types of adventures. Choose the best size dry bag depending on the activity you need it for. We usually bring them on adventures where water is included.
We had a couple of dry bags from different brands before but fell in love with the Sea to Summit lightweight bags because they provide the perfect amount of lightweight and waterproof protection for our trips.
24. Luci Original: Solar Inflatable Light
The Luci Solar Inflatable Light is a solar-powered, lightweight, durable, and waterproof lantern that keeps you out of the dark, no matter where you are.
It inflates small enough to throw in your bag and is strong enough to light up a campsite making it one of the most practical and environmentally friendly gift ideas for hikers who like to hit the backcountry.
25. Foot Massage Roller
Some of the most spectacular trails in the U.S. are long and strenuous. It is no surprise that your feet will hurt after that unforgettable adventure. Therefore, Give the gift of relief with this convenient foot massage roller.
This compact massage roller provides hikers with instant comfort for their sore muscles and feet. We promise you, your feet and muscles will thank you for this best gift for hikers.
26. Stasher Reusable Snack Bags
Most outdoor lovers are constantly finding ways to reduce their impact on the environment including ways to reduce trash, plastic, and other garbage on the trails.
Utilizing these reusable snack bags for our sandwiches and nutrients lowers the amount of waste significantly. And it doesn’t only save the environment. It saves you money at the same time.
Best Gifts for Hikers Under $50
27. Compact Binoculars
Binoculars are one of the best hiker gifts which get overlooked. Especially when you are on the trails in the beautiful U.S. National Parks, you never know what you can spot or find on the side of the trail.
Make sure you purchase travel binoculars since they are lightweight and smaller for hikers to pack in their backpacks.
28. Hydro Flask Packable Bottle Sling
The Hydro Flask packable bottle sling is a great accessory for a hiker’s Hydro Flask water bottle. The bottle sling has a fully adjustable slip lock strap for maximum comfort.
We like to use our bottle sling for less demanding and quick adventures.
29. Rocketbook Journal
If you like to keep track of our adventures and help the environment, then the Rocketbook Journal is one of the unique gifts for hikers.
You get the old-fashioned feeling of writing in a journal with a modern twist. The Rocketbook may look like a regular notebook but it has reusable paper and can be connected to any cloud service to store your notes. So write as much as you want, store, erase, and keep on writing.
30. Hiking Waist Pack
As an alternative to a hiking backpack, some hikers like to use a hiking waist pack. A great advantage of using a waist pack on your hike is not having a sweaty and sticky back from a backpack. But waist packs don’t always come in handy. We usually utilize them for quick, short, and easy hikes that do not require us both to carry lots of gear.
When looking for a waist pack as a hiking gift, get one with good lumbar support, various pockets, and a suitable size.
31. Microspikes or Crampons
For hikers who like to extend their hiking season by hitting the trails in the winter, buying a set of microspikes or crampons is an excellent gift idea. They provide the hiker with the appropriate amount of traction for an icy and snowy trail.
Microspikes are great for trails with densely packed snow and little ice to provide more tread and stability when hiking, whereas crampons work great on any ice on incline areas.
The Yaktrax microspikes have saved us from more than a few slips and falls while hiking on icy and snowy trails in New York.
32. Durable Phone Case
We are big fans of Peak Design products for our camera gear. Now, Peak Design has created new products designed for mobile devices, one being a phone case.
The sleek design, durable protection, and the easily connectable Peak Design system of the Everyday Case and Everyday Case with loop are great presents for hikers who need the best safety for their outdoor adventures.
33. Rain Cover for Backpack
The weather is always unpredictable when you are out in nature’s backcountry. Therefore, we highly recommend always having a rain cover for your backpack. They are essential in protecting your gear inside from getting wet.
Most bigger-size backpacks will come with a rain cover but it is not always the case.
We have used ours many times and were always glad we brought it. Every pack we own is equipped with its own rain cover.
34. Matador Packable Backpack
Matador offers a variety of packable backpacks. The packs range in size, weight, style, and durability. We like to throw our Matador packable backpack into our larger Deuter backpack for longer backpacking trips. This allows us to lighten our load for smaller adventures during the trip.
For example, on our 3-day backpacking trip to Havasu Falls, we threw in our packable backpack for our additional hikes to Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls. Since we had limited room in our packs, the size and weight of the Matador packable backpack was perfect.
35. Matador Pocket Blanket
We never leave the house for a hike or any outdoor adventure without our pocket blanket. For us, it is one of the best gifts for hikers out there.
Having this pocket blanket with you allows you to enjoy a peaceful lunch at the summit or a relaxing break along the trail even when the ground is wet.
It is perfect for all types of hikers because it is lightweight, water-resistant, durable, and not to mention its compact size which can easily fit in your pocket.
Best Hiking Gifts for Her
36. Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hiking Pants
We have a couple of hiking pants at home, but the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hiking Pants are our all-time favorites when we hit the trails.
These extremely lightweight, breathable, and comfortable softshell pants protect you in almost all weather conditions, no matter if it is sunny, windy, rainy, or even snowy outside. We even use them with long underwear underneath when we go snowshoeing because of their great durable water repellent.
37. REI Rain Pants
For our travels to rainy Alaska, we wanted to purchase rain pants, and let me tell you, it was not that easy to find a pair that satisfied us.
A lot of rain pants out there are extremely wide and bulky and kind of disturbed us when walking. On top of that, some were really annoying to take off.
The REI rain pants are different. They are extremely lightweight and breathable, but more importantly, have a slimmer fit and you can even customize them with the elastic drawcord waistband. When you are all wet, you can easily take them off even without removing your boots.
38. Odlo Base Layers
For all your friends out there, who don’t want to stop hitting the trails just because the temperatures drop, base layers are great gift ideas for hikers.
When purchasing quality base layers (breathable undergarments), you want to make sure they are made out of polyester. Also, you want them to be next to your skin, but you don’t want to feel pressed when wearing them.
We are huge fans of the Odlo base layers which have enhanced moisture management, are very stylish, and feel super comfortable and soft on your skin. The different styles come with a temperature control system, so you can pick how warm or light your thermal insulation should be.
39. Hiking Shirts
Expect to sweat a lot on your outdoor adventures, so sweat-absorbing shirts or long sleeves are a must.
We would recommend clothes out of polyester or nylon for hiking presents. All of these materials move your sweat away from your skin and dry quickly. Also, make sure that you can move freely in your clothes since you will have to be flexible on your hikes.
When it comes to brands, we are not really picky. Most of our hiking shirts are from Columbia though.
40. Mid Layers
A mid-layer is the layer between your base layer and the waterproof outer layer. Especially on longer hikes or hikes with different temperature ranges, they are extremely useful, since you can take them on or off whenever you want to.
We have a bunch of different mid-layers, from hoodies to half-zip fleece and full-zip sweaters. Columbia is one of our to-go brands for mid-layers. They have a wide selection, a great fit, we are super satisfied with their quality, and they are very affordable.
41. Columbia Heavenly Hoody – Insulated Jacket
Technically, an insulated jacket can be a mid-layer too, since it provides insulation. The mid-layer is supposed to give your direct body heat, which the base layer didn’t hold, back into your body. On top of that, it works as a protection against the cold air, and winds.
The Columbia Heavenly Hoody is our top pick and one of the most useful gifts for a hiker.
It is a high-performing, weather-resistant, stylish, and comfortable hooded jacket. It gives you plenty of room for another mid-layer and is so warm that we even wear it outside on the trails in the cold New York winters.
42. North Face Rain Jacket
One thing we have learned on all of our travels is to always bring a raincoat with you. Weather can be unpredictable.
For us, the perfect raincoat needs to be lightweight and easily foldable, so that it takes up only a small space in our packs.
We personally wear the North Face rain jackets which come in various styles and colors and can be easily thrown in our hiking bags.
43. Hat
Another best gift for hikers is a lightweight hat for all outdoor adventures.
Especially when traveling to hotter areas, it is important to protect yourself from the sun properly.
We would suggest picking a hat that is light, foldable, and dries quickly like this one…
44. North Face eTip Gloves
When we purchased e-tip gloves, it was a complete game-changer. Mostly made out of fleece, they give you a lightweight warmth which is perfect when you are constantly on the move on the trails and don’t need a heavy, warm glove.
The best function is the touchscreen compatibility. Finally, you don’t have to take your gloves off anymore, when you just want to take a look at the hiking map again.
We can recommend the North Face etip Gloves as one of the best gifts for hikers. They are so comfortable with their four-way stretch that you don’t even want to take them off.
45. Hiking Sandals
Most hikes require a sturdy and durable hiking boot, like the Columbia Newton Ridge. However, this is not the case for all hikes.
For some hikes, a more minimalistic style of footwear with good tread is totally sufficient. For those hikes, we like to use our hiking sandals. We have a pair of Chaco hiking sandals and Bedrock hiking sandals, both of which are comfortable and satisfy our needs on the trails.
Chaco or Bedrock hiking sandals are especially great for those hot weather summer hikes or trails with a water crossing. Your feet can breathe but also feel secure at the same time.
46. Kula Cloth
A Kula Cloth is super functional for female hikers when it comes to hygiene, especially if you are a Thru-Hiker, Backcountry Hiker, or Multi-Day hiker.
The Kula Cloth is a reusable pee cloth made from antimicrobial fabric to prevent germs from building up. Leave the tissues or toilet paper at home and carry this lightweight device with you which quickly attaches to your pack. It comes in a variety of pretty designs to match your favorite female hiker.
Help a female hiker avoid a dirty situation on the trails by purchasing some of the best hiking gifts for her.
Good Hiking Gifts to Keep them Safe
47. First Aid Kit
Although it is not the most exciting of the hiking gift ideas, a first aid kit is one of the most important gifts for hikers.
A first aid kit has all the must-have items for hikers to stay safe on the trails. You can purchase a small pre-assembled first aid kit designed for hikers or you can get crafty and fill your own first aid kit with the necessary supplies. But watch out, first aid kits can quickly become too bulky for your average day hiker, so only pack what is really needed.
48. Bear Spray
Bear spray is a specifically designed spray that is used as a last resort to protect yourself from bears. Always keep it handy, so that you can reach it immediately when there is a bear encounter.
So far we have not had to use our can of bear spray and we hope we never have to. If you are planning a hiking trip in certain National Parks in the United States, bear spray is one of the most functional gifts for hikers to calm their nerves on the trails.
50. Pocket Knife
You never know when you will need a knife, like this Swiss Army Knife, or another multi-tool on the trails.
We have actually utilized our multi-tool more than we thought for various occasions, especially on backpacking trips when we were cooking.
49. Multi-Tool
A Swiss Card Classic is a super handy multi-tool for every trip. With the size of a credit card, it is the smallest multi-tool we’ve ever seen.
It comes with a nail file, screwdriver, toothpick, tweezers, ballpoint pen, emergency blade, scissors, and even more.
51. Four Function Safety Whistle
This simple and inexpensive hiking gear can be clipped right onto your hiking backpack for added safety while out on the trails.
The small four function safety whistle comes equipped with a loud whistle, compass, thermometer, and magnifying glass and can help you out big in case of an emergency.
52. Flashlight
We prefer to use our Black Diamond headlamp as a light source, however, we do sometimes also carry a flashlight with us depending on the type of hiking trip we are up to.
Choose whatever works best for you, the most important thing is to always have a source of light other than your phone when you are hiking.
53. Black Diamond Headlamp
Some of the best hiking we have done has been early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is not shining. In order for us to navigate the trails, we use our Black Diamond Headlamp when the lighting is not at its best.
We prefer a headlamp as a best gift for hikers because it keeps their hands free which is extremely useful for rocky sections of the trail.
54. Sunscreen
Hiking in the warm weather means potentially being exposed to the sun for hours at a time. Protect a hiker’s skin with the Blue Lizard sunscreen.
55. Survival Bracelet
A survival bracelet is similar to the four-function safety whistle but includes some other great features. It is one of the best hiking gift ideas to add to your hiking backpack. We like to hang ours right from our shoulder strap.
This versatile piece of gear can really come in handy when tricky situations arise on a hike. This 4-in-1 bracelet is made of paracord which can be opened up to use as a rope. It also comes equipped with a compass, fire starter, and whistle.
56. Wilderness Survival Courses
Outdoor stores like REI and LL Bean provide a multitude of courses for outdoor lovers to help them learn the necessary skills for particular outdoor activities.
Give the gift of peace by knowing your favorite hiker is equipped to be safe while out there exploring.
Best Unique Gifts for Hikers
57. ENO Doublenest Hammock
ENO Doublenest Hammock has been at the top of the hammock game for a while. It is by far the most wanted and used hammock in the hiking and outdoor community.
This is the perfect hiking gift for people who like to have a little relaxation on the trail. The versatile hammock is lightweight and easily stuffs in your pack. The best part is it sets up within seconds.
58. Buff
Buffs are a great functional accessory for a hiking trip because they are so versatile in their use. You can utilize it as a headgear, face mask, or scarf.
Check out the 12 ways to style your buff.
59. Qalo Silicone Band
These active lifestyle-designed rings eliminate the stress over losing or damaging your wedding rings on your adventures.
The variety in color, size, and shapes makes it a no-brainer for one of the most unique gifts for hikers. We love the comfort and versatility of Qalo rings. Now we can adventure more and worry less about our rings.
60. MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes
For those types of hikers who like to venture out in the colder weather to enjoy the trails, a pair of snowshoes is a great gift idea.
With a wide variety of snowshoes out there you will want to keep a few things in mind before buying a pair. You will want to know what type of terrain the hiker will most likely hike, the weight of the hiker, and the type of snow.
Since we only venture out on snowy trails a few times of the year, we went with an inexpensive pair of snowshoes which have worked out great for our snowy hiking adventures.
61. Pike Trail Leg Gaiters
Gaiters are usually an overlooked piece of gear for hikers, but they make your hike in the snow so much more enjoyable.
You can think of gaiters as insulation for your legs which keep snow and debris out of your boots and help prevent your pants from getting snagged on something on the trail.
These gaiters are one of the best gifts for a hiker who likes to be outside in winter and rainy conditions.
62. Stanley Adventure Stainless Steel Shot + Flask
Have you ever thought about a stainless steel shot and flask as hiker gifts? I admit, it is not the most common gift but doesn’t it make it even more special?
Some hikers really like to enjoy a drink after climbing a tall mountain and they absolutely deserve it. Stanley’s stainless steel shot and flask set is perfect for all types of outdoor adventures.
Top Tech Gadgets for Hikers
63. Solar Charger Power Bank
A dying phone is one of the most annoying things while hiking. That is why a solar power bank should be one of the top gifts for the hiker.
Our rechargeable (solar) power bank was a true lifesaver on our recent backpacking trips in the middle of nowhere. As long as the sun was shining, we didn’t have to worry about a useless phone at all.
64. Anker Power Bank
One of the most popular ways to stay fully charged is with the Anker Power Bank. It delivers a high-speed charge for 2 devices at a time. Give the gift of staying powered for the whole length of your hiking trip.
We have used our Anker Power Bank on many adventures and have never been without a charge since.
65. Garmin Instinct 2 Solar GPS Watch
A hiking watch should be equipped with way more functions than your regular watch. Every hiking watch should have a barometer to help you predict the weather, an altimeter to show you how high above sea level you are located, and a compass to see the four cardinal directions.
Note: Hiking watches that have these features are also called ABC Watches.
A lot of hiking watches support GPS which can help you navigate and track your route, as well as show your speed, distance, ascend, descend, and more.
If GPS is important to you, we would recommend getting the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar GPS Watch. It has all the ABC features, as well as fitness tracking metrics such as step counts, heart rate monitoring, sleep, and stress tracking. What makes this solar hiking watch truly special and worth spending some extra bucks is the long battery life.
66. Garmin Inreach Mini
Purchasing a GPS device is one of the best presents for hikers to keep them from getting lost on a hike.
The Garmin Inreach Mini is a lightweight, compact satellite device that fits in the palm of your hand keeps hikers connected by sending and receiving messages. Hikers can even send SOS alerts with location information for emergency situations. It also helps them navigate using detailed trail maps.
If you are buying gifts for the hiker who likes to venture out on their own or into the backcountry, this is the gift for them.
67. Garmin Inreach Explorer+
Is your hiker a serious and avid backcountry hiker? Then you may want to take it a step further with the Garmin Inreach Explorer Plus.
Unlike the Garmin Inreach Mini, the Explorer+ has built-in capabilities to access the trail maps. You can also plan out a route and follow a live GPS tracking location on the trails.
This device is best for those types of hikers who do a lot of thru-hikes like the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, or the Oregon Coast Trail.
When deciding which GPS device is better for your hiker, you can think of the Explorer+ as having the capabilities of the Mini but supercharged.
68. Bluetooth Headphones
Many hikers like to listen to music while they are hiking, while others like to listen to the peaceful sounds of nature.
Avoid being those annoying hikers who blast music through a speaker ruining other hikers’ experience. Instead, grab yourself a pair of Bluetooth headphones such as the Apple Airpods or the Samsung Bluetooth headphones to listen to your favorite hiking jams.
Gift Ideas for Hikers Who Love to Read
69. Kindle Paperwhite
Lighten the load of carrying heavy books on your backcountry trips with a Kindle Paperwhite. If you are the type of hiker who likes to take a rest with a good book along the trails, this is the ideal option.
What makes the Kindle Paperwhite different from other Kindle products is the anti-glare and waterproof feature, plus its lightweight design. This is the best gift for hikers who love to enjoy beautiful summit views with an unlimited number of books at their disposal.
70. Lonely Planet Guides
Lonely Planet is the world’s largest travel guide publisher with more than 150 million guidebooks. They were founded with the goal to provide useful travel information, detailed maps, and affordable dining and accommodation options for budget travelers.
Do you know which dream destination your hiker wants to travel to next? Then simply get one of the Lonely Planet Guides for that certain destination or purchase the complete Lonely Planet USA National Parks Guide.
Top Tip: You can also get a monthly subscription to the Lonely Planet APP which provides tons of information and discounts.
71. Moon: Hiking Guide Books
Moon has several guides which are great hiking gift ideas because they are specialized in the best trails in various areas, for example, Northern California hiking and Pacific Northwest Hiking.
You will get a list of best hikes, details on how to plan your trip, maps and directions, expert advice, and much more.
Simply browse through their collection and pick your favorite hiking guide.
72. Other Books for Hikers and Outdoor Lovers:
Good Gifts for Hikers Who Love to Take Photos
73. GoPro Head Strap + Quick Clip
GoPro has tons of accessories for their equipment and one of the best accessory hiker gifts is the head strap + quick clip.
These 2 items let hikers mount their GoPro on their heads in a variety of ways.
We have used these for our Via Ferrata climbs, whitewater rafting adventures, and more adventurous hikes. It is easy to say we have captured some great footage right from our heads.
74. GoPro 3 Way 2.0 Tripod Grip
The GoPro 3 Way 2.0 Tripod Grip is a useful essential which can be used in 3 different ways. Since it is multifunctional, it allows hikers to keep some room in their backpacks for other hiking essentials.
You can transform the grip into a tripod when your shot requires more stability, extend the flex arm when you want to get a selfie or follow a shot, and even use the 360-degree built-in ball joint to tilt your GoPro in any direction.
75. Peak Design Capture Clip
This is our absolute favorite piece of photography gear for hiking. We have been asked by many fellow hikers about this clip.
The Peak Design capture clip is the most accessible, convenient, hands-free, and secure way to carry your camera while hiking. Clip the capture to the strap of your backpack and the compatible plate to the base of your camera and you can easily attach your camera to your backpack.
This item definitely ranks at the tops of the best gifts for hikers.
76. Peak Design P.O.V Kit
Already have a Peak Design capture clip and need a way to carry your GoPro? Purchase the Peak Design P.O.V. Kit and attach it to your GoPro Hero.
Now you are ready to shoot unlimited hands-free footage right from the strap of your backpack.
77. Peak Design Travel Tripod
Peak Design Travel Tripod is the perfect solution for any hiker who wants to be in their photos too. It has a revolutionary compact design, is lightweight, pro-level stability, and an ergonomic ball head.
What we love about Peak Design is how all their products are compatible with each other. We promise this is the best gift for hikers who love taking photos on their hikes.
78. Peak Design Sling Strap
Prefer to carry your camera with a strap? Then the Peak Design sling strap is the one to have.
This strap was designed for the adventure in mind. Its sleek design comfortably sits along your shoulder with its non-slip grip and dual quick adjusters to provide an easy reconfiguration of the strap.
We prefer to use our Peak Design sling strap for our “urban hiking” adventures.
79. Wandrd PRVKE Backpack
This bag has it all for the hiker who loves to take photos. It has ample space and storage solutions for a variety of camera equipment, accessory straps for the outside of the bag, and comfortable waist straps to distribute the load. It also provides some hidden pockets to store smaller valuables.
We were super excited when we purchased this stylish backpack and couldn’t wait to wear it for the first time. Wandrd has really thought out a perfectly designed backpack for camera lovers.
80. iPhone Camera Lens Kit
Upgrade your iPhone camera photos with a camera lens kit for high-quality photos.
An iPhone camera lens kit is an ideal gifts for hikers who want great photos without lugging all the fancy photography equipment with them on the trails.
81. Joby Smartphone Tripod
Not the type of photographer who uses cameras? Then make sure to capture the perfect shot from your smartphone with this compact, flexible, and dependable Joby tripod.
This easy-to-use and adjustable tripod make it simple to operate on just about any smartphone. Its flexible legs and durable grips let you wrap or stand on just about anything you can find making any shot accessible.
82. Camera Cleaning Kit
Using a camera on the trails means it can get dirty. Help prevent dirt, debris, and weather from damaging the camera.
The best camera cleaning kit is equipped with a lens pen, lens brush, air blower, cleaning tissues, and microfiber cloths. As an added bonus, this also works well to clean all the other gadgets for hikers. We use our camera cleaning kit after every adventure on the trail.
83. Lens Cap Strap Holder
It is so easy to misplace a lens cap. When Dana wants to take a quick picture, she puts the lens cap in the nearest opening she can find and then forgets where she placed it.
Never misplace a lens cap again with this strap holder.
Just strap the device onto your camera strap or backpack and you will always have a place to put your lens cap. This is one of the cheap no-brainer gifts for hikers who always carry a camera around.
84. Microfiber Lens Cloth
Take the worry away of having a smudged lens with this compact clippable microfiber lens cloth. Now you can clean your lens, glasses, or binoculars wherever you are to always have a clear view.
Best Cameras for Hikers
85. GoPro Hero
When you are an adventure seeker, you will want to put a GoPro (and some accessories) on your gifts for the hiker list.
The GoPro Hero makes it easy for hikers to document their adventures with its high quality, portable, waterproof, and durable design made for adventurers.
We use the GoPro frequently for our outdoor experiences, like going rafting, caving, biking, climbing, and of course hiking.
86. Olympus OM-D Mark ii
Besides our phone and our GoPro, we always bring our Olympus OM-D Mark ii Mirrorless camera.
There are so many strong competitors for interchangeable lens cameras out there but this is our absolute go-to. No matter if you are a beginner or an advanced photographer, you will appreciate the light, compact and durable design on all your outdoor adventures.
In comparison to its competitors, Olympus includes phenomenal features for a down-to-earth price. It has great image stabilization for sharper pictures, a large and bright viewfinder, a tilting 3” touchscreen, and Wi-Fi.
Gift Ideas for Hikers Who Are National Park Lovers
87. America the Beautiful Pass
The America the Beautiful Pass is hands down one of the good gifts for hikers who love the National Parks. This pass grants you access to every U.S. National Park, National Forest, National Monument, and more for just $80 a year.
You will be surprised at all the places you can use your America the Beautiful Pass. We could even utilize it for our hiking trips in Sedona where you normally have to purchase a Red Rock Pass to park in the Red Rock Ranger District around Sedona.
Still not convinced why this is one of the best gifts for the hiker? See all the benefits and how much your gift can provide to a hiker in our post, How to Save Money with the America the Beautiful Pass.
88. National Park Passport and Journal
This is a great way for National Park lovers like ourselves to keep track of our journey and experiences when visiting the 63 National Parks in the United States.
You can purchase the official National Park Passport at any one of the National Park visitor centers or from official America’s National Parks website.
Other good gifts for hikers who love to hit the trails in National Parks are the in-depth National Park Journals which have additional room to record your adventures. We love having a simple solution to documenting every aspect of our trip in one place.
89. National Park Guides
If you know anything about visiting a National Park, then you are aware that a lot of planning is involved.
We have spent hours and hours reading and researching which hikes to do, which landmarks not to miss, and which other activities to enjoy. It is easy to miss out on some of the park’s best features when you are not prepared.
Giving one of these National Park Guides is the best gift for the hiker:
- Moon: USA National Parks – The Complete Guide to all 62 Parks
- National Geographic: Guide to National Parks of the United States
- Fodor’s Travel: The Complete Guide to the National Parks of the USA
Top Tip: Moon also has a lot of National Park guides for just one park which gives you even more in-depth information about all that’s going on in that specific U.S. National Park.
90. National Park Maps
National Park maps are awesome for National Park lovers who hike. Maps help hikers in a variety of ways, to find their way on the trail but also to plan their trip in advance.
One of the best National Park maps is the National Geographic Trails Illustrated. National Geographic has been mapping the United States National Parks for over 25 years.
We like to grab a map for our desired National Park and use it to plan our upcoming trip. The parks are enormous, so we want to make sure we capitalize on our time by planning to do hiking trails that are in the same area on the same days.
91. Parks Project – National Park Apparel
No matter how many bucks you want to spend for unique hiking gifts, Parks Project has something for every wallet.
From colorful National Park Tees and hoodies to essentials like water bottles, and fun gifts for a hiker like ornaments, coloring books, and playing cards.
Simply browse their website and find your favorite item. But be warned, the decision-making won’t be that easy!
92. Nomadix National Parks Microfiber Towel
Nomadix has a beautiful selection of microfiber Towels with different National Park designs.
They are multi-purpose towels you can take to the beach since they are sand resistant, your favorite National Park, or you can use them as a yoga mat. It packs super small and customers are raving about the great water absorbance and quick drying.
What makes this towel one of the best hiker gifts is that Nomadix is a Social Purpose Cooperation. They want to become clima neutral, and support sustainability and less waste, that is why every towel is made out of 30 recycled water bottles.
93. National Park Board Games
There are a lot of National Park games out there. Some of the classic games like Scrabble and Monopoly, some Trivia games, and of course strategy games.
We own two National Park games ourselves and can highly recommend them. Trekking the National Parks and PARKS Board Game are both beautifully illustrated, let you delve into your own National Park experiences, and are great entertainment.
Trekking the National Parks is a little more educated since it gives you a lot of information about all of the parks. It even got the Mensa And Parent’s Choice Awards for its genius game idea.
We actually think that these gifts for a hiker are so good that we even gave some board games to friends ourselves.
Hiking Gift Ideas for Beginners
94. Deuter Hiking Backpacks
There are a lot of great options for backpacks out there but there is only one backpack brand we trust for our hiking adventures and that is Deuter.
Besides their outrageous quality due to the well-ventilated contact back, the PFC-free production (free of per- & polyfluorinated chemicals), and the exceptional wearing comfort, Deuter is also a company that stands behind their product.
The Deuter Promise guarantees you a backpack for life. That means if your bag happens to break or tear they will replace your damaged backpack. It is their lifelong repair service.
Depending on the hike, we use different Deuter backpacks. But 2 of our favorites are the Deuter Speed Lite 22 SL which is designed for the female anatomy, and the Deuter Trail 28L.
We promise you can’t go wrong with a Deuter backpack as one of the best gifts for hiking.
95. Black Diamond Trekking Poles
To add trekking poles to your best gifts for hikers list is extremely useful. Trekking poles are most important for specific trail conditions, especially for steeper hikes, slippery winter trails, or water-filled slot canyon hikes.
They support you and maintain your stability while trekking through tough sections. Plus, they help take some weight off your knees which is great for those difficult climbs or descends.
We only use our trekking poles a couple of times during the year but when we take them, we absolutely love their functionality. Your best bet is to buy foldable, lightweight ones which can easily be clipped on your hikers pack when you don’t need them.
96. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot
Next on your gifts for the hiker list should be a pair of good hiking boots.
When searching for the best boots for hiking, we look for comfort, durability, water resistance, lightweight, and of course the price. The Columbia New Ridge Plus hiking boot has it all. Everything you are looking for in a quality hiking boot with an affordable price tag.
These have become our absolute favorite boots to wear on the trails in every season.
97. Darn Tough Hiking Socks
Having the right hiking socks can either make or break your hiking experience. Hiking socks have many benefits for a hiker, especially providing additional comfort and cushion to prevent blisters and keeping your feet dry.
Any hiker would appreciate a good pair of socks as a hiking gift. We are huge fans of the Darn Tough brand but also use Smartwool and the German brand Falke.
Best Gifts for Backpackers
98. Lightweight Backpacking Tent
If you want to purchase the perfect backpacking tent, you have to consider some important factors.
When hiking for hours, you definitely want to keep the weight at a minimum, you also want a durable tent that protects you from the weather, a good balance of interior space and weight, and the tent should be affordable.
Our pick for the best performing tent which is still affordable is the REI Quarter Dome SL 2. It is an extremely light tent, has great ventilation, enough space on the inside, and large vestibules outside to store your items.
Even though the lighter backpacking tents come with a higher price, we would highly recommend spending a few more bucks for a high-quality product you will be able to use for years and years.
99. Cliq Chair
Everyone needs portable chairs. No matter if you have a picnic with friends, relax at the beach, or hit the trails, portable chairs are great companions.
The Cliq Chair is a special portable chair. With the compact size of a water bottle and low weight (3.65 lbs), it seriously can be brought everywhere.
Don’t get fooled by the small size. Even though they look tiny, they are extremely stable and comfortable.
100. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are individual bags for your suitcase or backpack. They come in different sizes to help you organize and separate items.
There is a great hype about packing cubes and once we started using them, we totally understood why.
They are really useful because you don’t have to get everything out of your backpack when you want to reach this one item. I am also convinced that you can fit more in your backpack when using them.
Another great advantage of packing cubes is their multifunctionality. You can use them for your clothes, shoes, as a laundry bag, or even as a pillow on your backpacking trip. That makes them one of the most useful presents for hikers.
101. GSI Outdoors Gourmet Kitchen Set 24
Even when you are out in the wilderness, you don’t want to waive your coffee in the morning or your hot, energizing meal in the evening.
This 24-piece outdoor kitchen set is to the point. The compact bag includes whichever utensils you need to cook a delicious meal, like a cutting board, knives, spoon, spatula, and more.
It even comes with 2 little spice containers, small bottles for liquid for you to individually fill it up, and products to wash your dishes.
102. GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Backpacker Cook Set
Not to be missed on a backpacking trip are pots and pans to get your nutritious meals ready.
This outdoor backpacker cook set for 2 comes with 11 items. Besides a pot and a pan, you also get plates, bowls, and mugs. It is stored in a stuff sack which you can use to do your dishes afterward.
This best gift for hikers can be perfectly paired with the GSI Outdoors Gourmet Kitchen Set 11. We even brought all of the two packs on a plane to Alaska with us and used them every day during our 2-week car camping trip.
103. Lightweight Backpacking Stove System
Different occasions require different camping stoves. On our cross-country road trip packing list, we have a standard camping stove for cozy meals around our campervan.
Whereas a small and lightweight backpacking stove system is more suitable for our backpacking trips and other outdoor adventures.
This system includes a lightweight, windproof burner base with 4-dimensional support. It connects to the small propane tank and you can simply place your pot and pans on top.
104. Exped Air Mattress
We can’t even emphasize enough how much we are in love with this very compact, lightweight air mattress.
Even though it is very light and just 3in thick, it is extremely comfortable which is also due to the fact that on the duo mattress you can customize each side with your favorite firmness. To inflate it, you simply use the pump bag, which is included.
Camping outdoors was never that easy, no matter if you go car camping, backpacking, or have other sleepovers.
Top Water Bottles for Hikers
105. Platypus Duolock Soft Bottle .75L/1.0L/2.0L
The Platypus soft water bottle comes in a variety of sizes and beautiful styles for all types of hikers. The soft bottle design is lightweight and can be flattened and rolled for compact spaces.
We like to bring our Platypus for overnight and backcountry trips, especially when there is a water source nearby. Whenever we want a filtered refreshing drink, we fill up our Platypus soft bottle.
It is also a great bottle when you are flying somewhere. You can bring the empty bottle through check-in at the airport and fill it up at the gate.
Top Tip: For the ultimate best combination gifts for the hiker, pair the Platypus duo lock soft bottle with the Sawyer water purification system (check out below).
106. Que Collapsible
The Que Collapsible water bottle’s unique spiral design saves space in your backpack all with the functionality of a full-sized water bottle.
This specially designed water bottle allows you to choose how much water you want to carry at a time. Water can be filled up in the bottle when it is collapsed and expanded.
107. Hydro Flask 32 oz Water Bottle
Staying hydrated on the trails is essential. The best way to refresh yourself with (ice) cold water is using a Hydro Flask water bottle.
Before purchasing multiple Hydro Flask water bottles, we used regular outdoor water bottles without insulation and our water was always piping hot from the sun.
Investing in an insulated water bottle is key to staying cool and hydrated on the trails. Now we do not hike without our Hydro Flask bottles.
108. Hydration Bladder
If you prefer a hands-free way to stay hydrated on the trails, then a hydration bladder is your perfect match. After filling it up, you put it in your backpack. Make the hose run along the harness and mount it in its place.
With a hydration bladder, you never have to stop to take a water break because you can simply hydrate on the go through the hydration bladder straw. Some of the top brands for hydration bladders are Camelback and Platypus.
109. Yeti Rambler
The Yeti Rambler beats out all its competitors making it the perfect gift for hikers who are always on the go.
No matter if they are hiking in the heat or in the cold, they will always have the ideal beverage temperature to give you fluids on the trails.
110. LifeStraw Go Water Bottle
Give the gift of clean water with the LifeStraw Go water bottle. This water bottle protects hikers from drinking water with bacteria, parasites, microplastics, chlorine, organic chemical matter, dirt, and sand.
All you have to do is find a water source, fill the bottle, and let the LifeStraw filter do its job.
Note: Even though the LifeStraw bottle has a great filtration system, you still can’t drink out of all water sources, since it doesn’t filter viruses. Learn more about when to use a water filtration system outdoors in this guide.
111. Sawyer Water Purification System
When you plan on doing some backpacking trips or long day hikes, bringing a water filtration system with you is ideal.
As long as you know there are safe water sources around, you can give your back a rest by utilizing a water filter instead of carrying gallons of water.
We absolutely love how easy the Sawyer water purification works. It has definitely been a lifesaver on some of our backpacking trips by not having to worry about how much water we have with us. Plus our backs were happier.
We would highly recommend buying this gift for hikers who are serious about long multi-day and backpacking hiking trips.
Best Sunglasses for Hikers
112. Goodr Sunglasses
Tired of buying expensive sunglasses just to lose or damage them on your outdoor adventures? Well look no further, the Goodr Sunglasses are the perfect gifts for hikers.
For just $25 it is hard to believe that they come with great quality but as soon as we used them for the first time, we were absolutely convinced because of their lightweight, durability, and fashionable features. They come in a variety of color and style options.
A good, affordable pair of sunglasses is hard to come by. Goodr has mastered a comfortable fit that stays on your face without falling down your nose.
113. SunGod sunglasses
For a little bit more money, the SunGod sunglasses are a great gift for hikers. These glasses also feature a lightweight, fashionable design that is geared towards a variety of outdoor activities.
Besides the abundance of design choices, the SunGod sunglasses come in 4 different lens types for ultimate sun protection.
For these sunglasses, you are looking to spend about $80 to $155, depending on the style and lens you choose.
Different Types of Hikers
Giving a gift to a hiker can be a tad difficult because it requires you to know the hiker. With so many good gifts for hikers, you need to be able to decipher which are the best presents for the specific type of hiker.
Before you start purchasing random items, do your research on the type of hikers you are buying for. This may actually be the most challenging part of finding good and unique gifts for hikers.
Here is a quick reference list of the different types of hikers:
- Day Hikers – Pretty much any hiker is a day hiker. They can use most of the gear listed above, for example, hiking clothes, the gift ideas for beginners, a proper water bottle, sunglasses, etc.
- Overnight Hikers – These types of hikers are upgrading from the average day hiker by staying in nature overnight. They usually have a goal of reaching a specific campsite to spend the night. Good items to get for them can be found in the unique gifts for hikers, or the best hiking gifts for her.
- Multi-Day Hikers – Multi-Day hikers are the types of hikers who like to spend more than a few days out on the trails. The best gifts for these types of hikers are multifunctional and lightweight and can be found in our categories best gifts for backpackers, and good hiking gifts to keep them safe.
- Backcountry Hikers – Hikers who hit the backcountry should be well equipped with the best gadgets for hikers to help navigate the backcountry as well as the necessary safety equipment needed to survive. They should also pack multifunctional and lightweight gear.
- Thru-Hikers – Thru-hikers are like the nomads of the hiking world. They tend to spend weeks or even months at a time out on the trails. Gifts for these types of hikers should be lightweight, compact, multifunctional, and durable.
- Fast and Light Hikers – These are your minimalistic types of hikers. They like to hit the trails fast and pack light to maximize their distance within the shortest amount of time.
- Trail Runners – Trail runners are not really hikers since their main focus is to race through the woods. What gifts these types of hikers are going to need are lightweight clothing and items that keep them hydrated and energized.
- The Photographer Hiker – This is the type of hiker who is never seen without their camera or smartphone in hand. They spend most of their time clicking away to get every possible photo they can get of the beautiful landscapes. If you think you are buying for someone who likes to be behind the camera, then check out our gifts for the hiker who loves to take photos.
Tips for Buying Gifts for Hikers
Buying useful gifts for hikers can be difficult, especially if you are not too familiar with hiking or backpacking. Here are a few helpful tips to guide you in the right direction when finding the best gifts for hikers.
1. Scroll Through Product Reviews
Our best advice when it comes to purchasing hiking gear, traveling gear, camping gear, backpacking gear, or anything else is to do your research. Every time we find a product we like, we first check out the reviews. Read lots and lots of reviews from a variety of sources.
Product reviews can provide you with so much information about the product by actual users. However, sometimes you do have to proceed with caution because they may be sponsored and don’t reflect a true opinion. You can usually tell if a review is written as a true accurate testimony or a fake. Also, keep in mind that there will always be some dissatisfied customers.
Overall, product reviews can help you determine if a product meets your expectations while comparing it to competitor products. Honest reviews will undoubtedly unmask products for what they are.
2. Purchase Lightweight Design Items
When looking for the specific best gifts for hikers from our list, you need to think about the weight. A lightweight design is essential for hikers since most likely they will be wearing it, or carrying this item in their backpack.
Keeping your gear and clothing as minimal and lightweight as possible will increase your comfort and enjoyment on your trips.
Unfortunately, the downside to a lightweight comfortable design can sometimes mean an increase in price.
Especially, when the hikers are serious about their outdoor adventures, we would recommend spending a few more bucks for a quality product with a higher price tag that lasts for several years than going with the cheapest option which would have to be replaced shortly.
3. Look for Durable Products
If a product is not long-lasting, it is not worth buying.
Hiking requires durable gear that will withstand different weather conditions while being outside and the challenging demands of camping in the backcountry. You do not want to spend money on gifts for hikers which will break or rip after short use.
It is best to focus on brands that use quality materials and designs that are specifically made for outdoor adventurers. You can find these brands on outdoor websites like REI, Backcountry, or Moosejaw.
Also, be sure to check out the brand’s warranty policy as it may come in handy when gear, unfortunately, has a defect or becomes damaged. One reason we love Deuter for our backpacks is because of their lifelong warranty.
4. Get Useful Gear
With a quick search on the internet, you can quickly find an abundance of hiking gear. But the question is, is it useful for your hiker?
Not all hiking gear is useful for the specific hiker, believe it or not. Specific items might be helpful for certain kinds of hikers, other ones won’t utilize them.
We own a good pair of hiking poles but only use them for hikes where water is included, whereas other hikers swear on hiking poles and bring them on every moderate to difficult hike.
Can you believe that we have even found out that some of the recommended hiking gear on websites is irrelevant for hiking at all?
How can you tell if a product will be useful? Two simple questions you can ask yourself are:
1. Does it solve a problem the hiker has?
2. Will the product provide a more enjoyable experience for the hiker?
Did you Already Give Someone these Gifts for Hikers? How Was Their Reaction? Do you have any other Favorite Hiking Gifts?
Let us know in the comments below!
Our Other Resources for Hiking:
- What You Should be Packing for a Hike: The Essentials + Extras
- 15 Most Helpful Hiking Apps to Download In 2022
- 33 Most Beautiful Trails for Hiking in Hudson Valley
- 34 Top Rated Best Hikes Upstate New York
- 100+ Best Hiking Quotes to Inspire Your Future Adventures
- 50 Best Gifts for Outdoorsy Women Created by Outdoor Lovers
Save this Post for later on Pinterest!
Did you like this post? Subscribe to our newsletter and we’ll send you more unique travel tips, updates, and even FREE content!
