Whether making a day trip along the northern coast of California to take in the majestic Redwood trees or camping under the gorgeous star-filled sky of Big Bend National Park, there are certain accouterments that enhance a hiker’s experience in nature. Finding the best gift for hikers is highly dependent on the person’s skill level and the types of treks they take in their free time. However, no matter what their level of expertise, you cannot go wrong with items that improve their safety and comfort while on the trail! Here are the top recommendations for your favorite wanderer of the world!
Best Gifts for Hikers
YETI Rambler Bottle
Built for the Wild! YETI is the premier brand for insulation products like coolers and drinkware. The avid outdoorsman needs to stay hydrated and a YETI Rambler Bottle can help them to accomplish that task. This water bottle is vacuum insulated so the parched peripatetic is guaranteed a cool and refreshing drink throughout their long trek.
The sturdy, stainless steel construction ensures that this gift will not incur any damage no matter where the journey takes the user and the TripleHaul handle allows hikers to attach it directly to their pack. Lastly, this water bottle is dishwasher safe and is available in seventeen colors!
LifeStraw Water Filter
Water is essential for life. 60% of the human body is composed of this vital liquid. However, for those who realize that the water they packed for their long trek has run out, the LifeStraw Water Filter can be a lifesaver! This simple, yet strategic device allows users to drink directly from any lake, river, or stream without the worry of bacteria, parasites, or microplastics getting through (99.999% effective).
Moreover, it reduces the presence of sand, silt, and other debris. Filter up to 1,000 gallons with each device without the need of any power source. Lab-tested to meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s standards, this water purifier is the best gift for the long-distance hikers in your life!
Wise Owl Hammock
Hammocks are the perfect place to retreat after a long strenuous hike. Not only does the elevated sleeping surface remove pressure on sore joints, but it is also a lightweight alternative for backpackers! 20% of your body weight is the recommended amount that a person should carry on their back during activities like hiking.
Thus, for those who love to camp out in the woods, lessen their load and give them the gift of comfort at the same time! The Wise Owl Hammock weighs a remarkable 1.5 pounds and guarantees a deeper sleep. Furthermore, users rave about the simple setup and the sturdy design.
Additionally, this product has a built-in storage pocket and can hold up to 500 pounds. If any issues arise, there is a lifetime warranty. Lastly, it is available in fifteen color choices and two sizes, making it a versatile and dependable place for any hiker to catch some Zzz’s.
Midland X-TALKER Two-Way Radio
Every good hiker knows that you cannot always count on normal communication methods when journeying deep into the woods. Walkie-talkies are an old-school fix to this still present problem. More specifically, the X-TALKER Two-Way Radio comes in a pack of two and can provide hikers and campers with long-range communication capabilities. Reach your hiking partner or emergency contact up to 38 miles away!
Additionally, these devices are equipped with an NOAA weather radio. This means that you can get lifesaving, up-to-date weather information for the area. As a seasoned meteorologist and experienced hiker, I can tell you that this is a spectacular safety feature. Moreover, this two-way is waterproof and is covered by a three-year warranty!
Victorinox Swiss Pocket Knife
Reliable, versatile, and compact. The Victorinox Swiss Pocket Knife is a tiny tool that has an exceptional number of uses. Equipped with fourteen different functions, this is the perfect survival device that comes with a lifetime guarantee.
RUFFWEAR Dog Harness
For the woodsman whose dog never leaves their side, the RUFFWEAR Dog Harness gives the owner the peace of mind that their furry friend will not slip out of there collar while in the wild. This product is made of reflective fabric making it easy for pet parents to see their pup and it is equipped with pockets to store their dog tags.
Finally, you have your pick of sixteen color choices and six size options. This is the best gift for hikers, vets, and any dog lover!
Wondercide Insect Repellent
The great outdoors is a great place to get back to nature. Unfortunately, the wild blue yonder is home to some creepy crawly creatures that would like to join hikers on their trek through the woods. This means insect repellent is a MUST and Wondercide is a safe and effective brand that you can trust!
This product guarantees 2 hours of tick prevention and the promise that it will keep 98% of mosquitos at bay. It can also repel spiders, fleas, flies, and other common pests. Best of all, this spray is powered by essential oils, which means that it is free of chemicals, highly effective and users won’t get sticky after application. Available in lemongrass, peppermint, and rosemary scents, this is a gentle option for any age!
DARN TOUGH Wool Hiker Socks
The best gift for long-distance hikers is a comfortable and sturdy pair of socks. Unlike when walking on a paved hiking trail, those who like to explore the great unknown are going to give their feet a real workout and without a good pair of socks, blisters are inevitable. The DARN TOUGH Wool Hiker Socks is breathable, cushioned and it wicks sweat away. That means goodbye stinky feet!
Moreover, the material is thermo-regulating – it will keep their feet cool in the hot summer months and warm when winter rolls around. Additionally, this accessory is available in five sizes and eight colors and the company guarantees it for life!
Justin’s Almond Butter Packs
High-quality protein sources are key for keeping up your energy on a long hike! The Almond Butter Packs are a simple, lightweight snack that packs a protein punch! With six grams of this essential macronutrient and only two ingredients in every pouch, this is a magnificent morsel to bring on the mountain!
Best of all, almonds are known to strengthen the immune system and they are brimming with B vitamins! Why does this matter? This key supplement converts food into energy. Additionally, they are rich in magnesium, a mineral that fights muscle fatigue. These two qualities will give any hiker a boost!
Loowoko Hiking Backpack
The Loowoko Hiking Backpack is a versatile, multi-purpose pack that gives hikers ample support and allows for the transport of everything they need for a short or long-distance trek. This option has eight adjustable straps for conveniently adhering to the hiker’s sleeping bag, walking poles, food, water, and other gear.
Moreover, this backpack has padded shoulder and waist straps to provide a secure grip and to help better distribute the weight of the load. Additionally, the creator includes a waterproof cover for when unexpected precipitation appears on the trip. This is the best gift for hikers and backpackers because it helps them transverse any mountain without strain on their back and it keeps their hands free!
Cascade Mountain Trekking Poles
Tackling tricky terrain is a skill that advanced hikers have, but for those who want a bit more stability, the Cascade Mountain Trekking Poles are a fantastic tool! These carbon fiber supports have height adjustments, extending up to 54 inches tall. This can aid in relieving strain on the hiker’s back, legs, and shoulders on those steeper climbs. In addition, the cork hand grips allow for a comfortable hold. Moreover, it also allows users to collapse the product for easy transport on their pack when not in use.
Furthermore, this kit comes with five different tip covers to help hikers travel through snow, mud, sand, or anything the mountainside throws at them! This gift is lightweight, durable and will improve their traction on the trails.
Swiss Safe Emergency Blankets
In 1907, the Scout’s motto was born — Be Prepared. The man behind the motto, Baden-Powell, further noted that this means “you are always in a state of readiness in mind and body to do your duty.” Following this sage advice, hikers should always prepare for the worst and the Swiss Safe Emergency Blankets give them exactly what they need to survive if they find themselves stuck in the woods on a cold night unexpectedly.
This military-grade blanket is designed to withstand weather elements like the wind, rain, and snow. Additionally, it can serve as an emergency shelter and it is tailored to trap in 90% of the user’s body heat, preventing hypothermia and shock. Moreover, this lightweight survival tool is an astonishing 2 ounces in weight!
North Face Venture 2 Jacket
Weather is the main driver for if a hike will be worthwhile or miserable. However, every good hiker should take measures to ensure that they are not caught off-guard when the forecast changes in a flash! North Face Venture 2 Jacket is waterproof, breathable, and versatile.
Stay dry in one of their 43 color combinations and ten size options. This jacket is hooded and has large pockets for whatever you need to store. Keep the hiker in your life prepared for the elements!
Mountain House Backpacking Food
Fuel their adventure with these delicious, dehydrated Adventure Meals! The Backpacking Food provides hikers with 24 tasty meal pouches and five dishes to choose from. The dehydration process locks in the flavor, meaning each mouthful is overflowing with flavor!
Additionally, the package transforms into a bowl once opened, so no dishes are required. Serve up simple, savory meals in minutes. Just add hot water and dinner is served! This is the perfect gift for long-distance hikers and backpackers who want quick and easy meals.
GearLight S2000 Flashlight
Giving the gift of sight can make all the difference in the dark of night and in stormy weather. Hikers should always have a light source on hand and the GearLight S2000 Flashlight is a great choice! Advertised as weather, water, and drop resistant, this practical tool provides over ten hours of bright light with the device’s wide beam.
In addition, the zoom function lets users see objects up to 1000 feet away and it only requires four AA batteries. This is the perfect gadget for those who love camping, cave exploration, or hunting.
BUFF Coolnet
Simple, yet extremely adaptable. The BUFF Coolnet can be worn twelve different ways and has HeiQ cooling technology. This remarkable fabric has the ability to recognize when the wearer is becoming overheated and works to maintain an optimal body temperature. In addition, it also has a UPF 50+ rating. UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, means that it works as a sun protectant, and this rating blocks 98% of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays!
This is the best gift for hikers who love to explore terrains that do not provide a natural cover from the sun. Furthermore, this lightweight accessory also has anti-odor properties to keep users smelling as fresh as the great outdoors. Use as a headband, face mask, neckerchief, or hair tie!
BEARZ Pocket Blanket
Whether hiking to a scenic beach destination or to the side of a waterfall, the BEARZ Pocket Blanket will provide the perfect place for hikers to stop for a snack or for the night! This covering is waterproof, lightweight, and can fit up to four people.
Measuring at just under five by five feet, this is the perfect tool for those looking to stay dry and sand-free! Additionally, it has both corner loops and corner pockets. This makes it ideal for camping, picnics, and shielding users from the rain.
Eyeskey Military Tactical Compass
When modern technology fails, it is important to have a device that will guarantee results. The Eyeskey Military Tactical Compass is a tried and true tool that will keep backpackers on the right path no matter how deep they venture into the woods. Not only is this compass waterproof, but its durable design can withstand shock from most falls.
Additionally, it is capable of withstanding extreme temperatures — up to 140 degrees and as low at -22 degrees Fahrenheit! Furthermore, the bezel and needle are both phosphorescents. This gives hikers an easy way to see which way to go, no matter what the time of day or night.
Wekapo Inflatable Lounger
Want to feel as if you are sleeping on a cloud, floating through the picturesque views of the forest? Then purchase a Wekapo Inflatable Lounger. This portable furniture piece is simple to store and requires no pump to inflate! Just use the wind to fill it with air and seal it up.
Additionally, the fabric is durable, meaning less worry about rips while sitting on the rugged forest floor. Weighing in at a little under 3 pounds, this is a unique and supportive place to unwind after a long trek. Moreover, it has two convenient pockets for storage as well as a water bottle holder.
Zippo Pocket Lighter
Zippo has been making lighters since 1932 and they know their way around a flame! The Zippo Pocket Lighter is compact, waterproof and has a lifetime guarantee! Moreover, this is a refillable device and it weighs less than a quarter of a pound!
A campfire is the quintessential part of the campsite. This gadget will help you achieve a beautiful blaze to help hikers stay warm, cook dinner, and roast marshmallows! Zippo also makes a custom fuel for its lighters, which can be good to have on hand to ensure extended use.
Earth Pak Dry Bag with Phone Case
For the wanderers who like to venture into the water, the Waterproof Dry Bag is the perfect addition to their gear! This compression sack will keep everything in their pack safe and dry during water activities like kayaking and fishing. Moreover, this combination water protection pack comes with a phone storage device. This lets users take pictures while sealed safely inside.
In addition, choose from five sizes ranging from 10 liters all the way up to 55 liters. These dry bags can accommodate day treks or week-long hikes!
Neutrogena Mineral Face Lotion
Sun safety is imperative and having the proper sunscreen can keep those trekking across the mountainside safe from the sun’s dangerous rays. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Lotion is a spectacular choice for a variety of reasons. First, it provides broad-spectrum protection at an SPF of 50. This means that it will block up to 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
Next, the active ingredient is zinc oxide. This is a mineral that is natural and effective. Lastly, this sunscreen is dermatologist recommended, waterproof, hypoallergenic and non-greasy!
SnowCinda Flashlight Beanie
Everyone knows that the less a hiker has to lug with them on a long trek, the happier they will be throughout their time in the great outdoors. Thus, give the best gift to your favorite hikers with this two-in-one headlamp and cap! The LED Flashlight Beanie is equipped with 5 LED lights that can illuminate their path up to 30 feet away.
Moreover, the light can be easily removed to allow users to safely wash the accessory when the trip is complete. This simple and affordable gift is perfect for those who love to camp, hunt, hike, and run!
North Face Apex Glove
When cold weather and windy conditions strike at the same time, it can have a detrimental impact on the extremities! In fact, your fingers, and toes are where you will lose heat the fastest. When left uncovered in these extreme elements, it will lead to hypothermia and frostbite. This is why investing in a pair of Apex Gloves can make all the difference on a chilly and snowy hike.
This accessory is not only tailored to block out wind and moisture, it also has touchscreen compatibility! This means the gloves can stay on while trying to use your devices. Lastly, these gloves allow for a superior grip letting users continue to use their trekking poles, compass, flashlight, or any other gear on the trails.
Deuce(R) Ultralight Potty Trowel
If nature calls, the accommodations in the great outdoors may not be quite as sophisticated as they are at home. However, those who need to go can be more respectful of the other visitors of the Forrest by using the Ultralight Potty Trowel! This lightweight tool is ultra-durable, made with aerospace-grade 7075-T6 aluminum. This allows for ease of use with hard soil, rocks, roots, and other buried debris. Additionally, it comes in three sizes and can be conveniently strapped to their pack for quick access!
Protect Life First Aid Kit
You never know when an emergency will occur, so having supplies on hand for those unexpected moments is imperative, especially when you find yourself farther away from civilization. The Protect Life First Aid Kit is compact, practical and versatile! The collection of supplies includes bandages, tape, a tourniquet, a CPR mask, antiseptic and alcohol pads as well as 47 other safety items.
Mountain Basin Trek Short
The best attire for hikers is apparel that provides comfort, mobility and possesses water-resistant qualities. The Mountain Basin Trek Short is the perfect fit for the guy who wants full range of motion when rock climbing, backpacking, or kayaking down the river. The nylon material is coated with a durable water repellent finish, which causes water to wick away.
Coolibar LumaLeo T-Shirt
Speaking of signature looks, the Coolibar LumaLeo T-Shirt is not only stylish but also provides the hiker in your life with protection from the sun! Moreover, the lightweight organic cotton, bamboo, and zinc oxide blend provide breathability for those hot days in the wilderness.
Additionally, this top will keep the sleeves firmly in place. This is accomplished with the two thumbholes on the cuffs. Feminine, and yet functional, this is the best gift for the hikers who want to look good while staying active and sun safe!
Magic Mill Food Dehydrator
For the hiker who is also a health nut, the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator is a fun and unique present! They can create their very own trail mix on the seven stainless steel trays. Fruit leathers, jerky, and even vegetable chips can be made through the simple dehydration process. Just place up to seven pounds of food on the various trays and let the state-of-the-art airflow circulation technology and temperature controls do the rest!
This is the best gift for hikers who are particular about their snacks for the trails. Additionally, this food preparation technique can allow food to last longer, reducing waste and saving space in their pack.
Youphoria Microfiber Camping Towel
For the woodsman who is also a water lover, it is important to have a quick way to dry off. The Youphoria Microfiber Camping Towel is the perfect solution — lightweight, fast-drying and extremely absorbent. In fact, according to the company, it can hold up to five times its weight in water! This product is soft and dependable. it also has a hanging loop attached for optimal dry time.
Hiking Logbook
For travelers who like to document their adventures, the Hiking Logbook is a cute and compact gift that gives hikers the perfect place to dictate their exciting explorations. Designed with hikers in mind, users can document their journey, with specific sections to note the distance traveled, weather conditions, terrain details, and other key aspects of the trip.
Merry’s Polarized Sunglasses
Sunglasses are another great way to help hikers stay safe on the trails. Merry’s Polarized Sunglasses are polarized to reduce glare. For those who frequent paths that align with water or love to make treks in the snow, this is an optimal feature. Moreover, the metal frames and composite lenses make this an extremely durable accessory that can handle a fall.
Additionally, these specs are available in both mirror and matte styles and the color combinations are virtually endless! Deter the sun’s rays and keep your favorite hiker focused on their journey with this thoughtful and fashionable gift.
MalloMe Camping Cookware
For those who intend to forage and fish for their food while in the forest, the MalloMe Camping Cookware is a compact set of supplies that will provide them with everything they need to prepare their meal. This collapsable kit includes a non-stick pot and pan, silverware, cooking utensils, and a scrubbing sponge for quick clean-up. Additionally, they can throw it in their pack or toss the supplies in the drawstring bag and tie it to the outside straps.
Blavor Solar Portable Charger
This wireless charger will keep your mobile devices ready for use throughout a long-distance hike! It is solar-powered and resistant to shock, dust, and water. Furthermore, the Blavor Portable Charger is a versatile gadget that also doubles as a high powered flashlight that shines up to 164 feet away. In addition, it is equipped with a compass, making this charger a lightweight tool that will keep hikers powered up for days while headed in the right direction!
Peak Design Camera Clip V3
It is hard to capture the beauty of the great outdoors, but for those who like to venture into the great unknown to document this wonder, it is important to have a high-quality camera. Unfortunately, many of these wonderful sights require a strenuous journey to see them, thus it is imperative that their camera stays well protected. The Peak Design Camera Clip V3 attaches directly to the camera and then adheres to the hiker’s backpack strap or belt.
Not only does this help to prevent accidental drops, but the design is thin, narrow, and light. Users will barely notice it is there! Additionally, it has a quick-release button, allowing photographers to grab their gear and shoot in a flash! Lastly, Peak Design offers a lifetime warranty. Thus, know that you will be investing in a quality product that will stand the test of time.
7075 Tent Stakes
After a long-distance hike, the last thing you want to do is set up camp and then turn around to find your tent blowing away! The 7075 Tent Stakes are the best way to tether your shelter to the ground and ensure that it stays in place. Unlike the stakes that come with most tents, these are designed to last and the three-sided construction allows for a firm hold.
These stakes are made to penetrate all soil types and are perfect for stabilizing any sized tent. They are also highly reflective and come with a looped string attachment. This makes the teardown of the campsite a breeze!
überleben Zünden Fire Starter
Shower your tinder with sparks and create the perfect campfire with the Zünden Fire Starter! This tiny tool has the powerful ability to produce fire with the use of a Ferrocerium rod. When struck, this alloy material fragments apart and ignites.
Moreover, this handcrafted tool comes in three size options — capable of producing anywhere between 12,000 to over 20,000 molten sparks. Additionally, the creators guarantee that it will work at any altitude and in any type of weather. Lastly, the striker also serves as a bottle opener, map scale, and hex wrench!
Hike More Worry Less Shirt
This casual, cotton blend shirt is a great gift for the person who loves to get back to nature as often as possible. This Hike More Worry Less Shirt is available in thirteen colors and comes in short and long sleeve varieties. Moreover, the soft, quality materials allow for comfort and a small bit of stretch.
Garmin Instinct Watch
Garmin is a name synonymous with GPS technology. They have been creating products for those who love outdoor recreation for the past 30 years. The Garmin Instinct Watch is an innovative accessory that has military standard durability. This is waterproof for up to 100 meters and it is both thermal and shock-resistant. Furthermore, this gadget can not only track your location but also your heart rate and activity levels.
In addition, it has an exceptional battery life — when the SmartWatch mode is on, it can last up to 14 days. Users can navigate their path with the 3-axis compass, stay connected throughout their trip and monitor their vitals making this the best multi-purpose gift for hikers!
Hoyle Waterproof Playing Cards
Whether they are a fan of poker, Go Fish, hearts or spoons, the Hoyle Waterproof Playing Cards is the best gift for hikers who want something fun to play while they unwind at the campsite! This simple gift is flexible, and most importantly, waterproof. They can play at the beach, on the riverside, or while soaking their feet in the refreshingly cool lake waters next to their camp!
Top Considerations For Choosing Gifts for Hikers
Versatility
They say that “less is more” and for a hiker, this mantra couldn’t be more true! A hiker’s main initiative should be to prepare for anything while carrying as few supplies as possible. Looking for multi-purpose tools, gadgets and gear can give a hiker the items they need without the strain on their back.
Additionally, look for gifts that are lightweight and compact. This can ensure that everything they need can easily fit in their pack.
Comfort
In order to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature, hikers need apparel that is going to keep them comfortable. Looking for lightweight, sun-safe, and temperature regulating products are an ideal choice. Moreover, items that will keep hikers from straining their backs, shoulders, legs, and ankles are another optimal quality to search for in a gift.
Hike Distance & Difficulty
The distance of a hiker’s trek will greatly determine what gear they will need. Short distance hikers just need the basics — a solid pair of hiking shoes, sunscreen, snacks, and water. However, for those venturing on a long-distance trip, they will need a place to sleep, supplies for camp, a first aid kit, and the appropriate apparel.
Additionally, it is also important to consider the difficulty of the terrain. For those transversing rocky slopes, snowy trails, and steep mountainsides, products that can enhance their stability and improve their safety are a wonderful addition to their gear.
Weather
Mother Nature plays a huge role in the ability of a hiker to traverse a mountain. While most avid outdoorsmen take the time to check the forecast before heading out. However, it is always ideal to have a contingency plan just in case a stray thunderstorm pops up. This means looking for waterproof and water-resistant products. Items that can help the hiker and their gear stay dry and safe are a fantastic choice for a gift!
Moreover, looking for sun-safe products is key for fighting against sun-related health issues. Gifts that utilize UPF fabrics, cooling technology and allow hikers to stay hydrated are imperative for their safety throughout their trip.
FAQs — Gifts for Hikers
What is the best gift for someone who is outdoorsy?
For those who are fond of nature, one of the best gifts you can give is the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock! They can use it on hikes, kayak trips, and even in the comfort of their own backyard! Let them soak in the scenery in this incredibly comfortable, suspended spot!
What should every hiker have?
Every hiker needs a backpack to house all of these essential items! This allows them to always stay prepared and keep their hands free. Having hiking as a passion is a big initial investment, but once they have the appropriate gear, they will be set for the long haul, wherever it may take them!
The top items that every hiker should have with them are tools for:
Hydration — Plenty of water is imperative. Approximately two cups per hour are recommended for moderate activity and temperatures.
Conservation — Non-perishable food, first aid, emergency supplies and protection from the elements (the sun, insects, wind, rain, etc) will ensure their safety. This also includes the appropriate attire for the climate and the weather.
Navigation — Any gadget that can keep hikers on the right path is important. This can help to prevent them from becoming stranded in the woods due to a slight misdirection.
Illumination — Whether it be fire or LED lights, those making overnight treks, need to be able to see in the dark.
Motivation and determination are the last two things every hiker should have if they want to make a successful trek. By ensuring that they are prepared, you will help them to achieve the willingness to overcome the hurdles along the mountainside.
