Skip to content
Home » Blog » 83+ Best Gifts for Hikers and Backpackers in 2023

83+ Best Gifts for Hikers and Backpackers in 2023

  • by

Finding the best gifts for hikers and backpackers is not easy at all. It can take hours of research to choose something that is both practical and unique, but you’ve come to the right place.

When we first started to get into hiking or backpacking, we all had a low budget. Our gear collections are built up over time. So if you’ve got a friend or family member who really loves to hike, here are some best hiking gift ideas to consider. I divided these up into different categories so you can skim through them quickly.

There are gifts for every budget, from cheap packs of matches to $400 backpacking tents. So get your wish list ready because believe me, you will want a few of these items for yourself too!

Looking for more gift guides? Here they are:

Be a part of my journey

Subscribe to get free travel tips, packing lists, and my latest contents by email.

Best small gifts/ stocking stuffers for hikers

Here are gift ideas for hikers that are small and inexpensive. Let’s check them out!


Wool hiking socks

Image courtesy: Backcountry

Wool socks may not be the most strikingly impressive hiking gift, but they are so damn practical. Anyone who hikes often will appreciate having another pair in their drawer.

You can’t just wear a regular pair of cotton socks on a hike because they take forever to dry. Wool socks, on the other hand, are great for hiking because they wick away moisture and can help to prevent blisters. 

Smartwool and Darn Tough are my go-to brands because not only that their socks are in high quality, they are also available in many cool designs.

Check out more hiking socks here.


Waterproof match kit

Image courtesy: Amazon

Since knowing how to start a fire is a valuable (or even essential) backcountry skill, you always need to carry some kind of fire starter. I always bring some waterproof matches because they can be reignited even after being submerged in water.

You may ask, but can you just bring a lighter instead? Of course you can! I just prefer matches because they are more environmentally friendly. Plus, I’m old school and I think using matches makes you look cooler! This is one of the coolest gifts for hikers.

Check out other emergency fire starters here.


Beanie

Image courtesy: Backcountry

Beanie is a classic stocking stuffer and is one of the best gifts for hikers. It is can be stylish and adorable, but it’s so practical too.

Wearing a beanie keeps your head nice and toasty when it’s chilly outside. This Smartwool men’s beanie is made from Merino wool blend, which means it is excellent at preserving heat and won’t soak up perspiration.

For women, I’d recommend this prAna Izzie beanie or this C.C fuzzy beanie because they both have a soft fleece lining on the inside.

Check out more beanie options here.


Backcountry/ REI gift card

Image courtesy: REI

Although we always want to give our friends unique and thoughtful gifts, it is sometimes better to just get them a gift card and let them decide for themselves. REI and Backcountry are two of the best outdoor stores out there. Believe me, no hiker ever frown upon receiving a gift card to either of these stores.

This is one of the best gifts for hikers because it gives them lots of flexibility. You can go as low as $10 or as high as $500.


Carabiners

Image courtesy: Amazon

Carabiners are so compact, light, and useful it never hurts to carry some around. They are used to strap things onto your backpack, tent, or even a hammock onto tree trunks. I like to color-code everything so this 8-pack multicolor carabiner set would be my choice of gift.

Check out more carabiner options here.


Mountain necklace

Image courtesy: Etsy

Get this cute necklace as a gift for someone you love so they can take the mountains with them wherever they go. It’s perfect for any occasion: birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s day, you name it.

The necklace comes beautifully wrapped to save you the hassle!

Find more mountain necklaces here.

Unique gifts for hikers

Here are some unique and best hiking gifts to wow your friends and family. There are board games, cute t-shirts, playing cards, and even portable campfires. Let’s get shopping!


National Park Pass (Canada & USA)

Image courtesy: US Park Pass

Most national parks in Canada and the US require a fee or a day pass, and they add up pretty quickly. So if you have a friend or family member who loves to explore the outdoors, you can get them free access to all national parks in Canada (Discovery Pass) or the US (U.S. Park Pass) for a year.

The pass will pay for itself after a few visits so it makes for an excellent gift.


Hiking-themed T-shirt

Image courtesy: Etsy

I usually hate receiving clothes as gifts (I think we all do), but not when they are hiking-themed. You can find tons of different T-shirt designs on Etsy and here are some of my recommendations:

  • These Explore More T-shirts are simple, whimsicles, and they come in 15 different colors. They are also serve as great reminders that you need to go out and explore more!
  • This Wander More T-shirt is just as cute and they come in 20 colors. I recently got a maroon one for a friend and she absolutely loves it.
  • I especially love this mountain graphic shirt because of the flower wreath that wraps around the mountains. The graphic is quiet unique and it’s definitely one of the best hiking gifts for her.

Portable campfire

Image courtesy: Etsy

This portable campfire is exactly what it sounds like. It allows you to carry a little warmth to wherever you like. Bring it on road trips, camping trips, or even RV adventures.

This portable campfire is made from recycled soy wax & paper in a metal tin and it’s so simple to use. You literally just have to light up the box (there’s minimal soot and no embers). The campfire can burn for more than 3 hours and can be reignited multiple times.

So if you’re looking for some unique and cool hiking gifts for someone who loves the outdoors, then look no further.


MONOPOLY national parks edition

Image courtesy: Amazon

Monopoly is a classic family board game that we all know and love, but did you there’s a national parks edition?

The game board features 22 of the most beautiful United States national parks from Acadia to Zion and everything in between. There’s also an educational twist in that players are required to match the animals to the parks they inhabit. I can’t wait to give this game a try!


Camera clip

Image courtesy: Amazon

Do you know someone who loves both hiking and photography? It can be really annoying to hike and carry your camera at the same time.

So here’s a solution.

The Peak Design V3 can easily be attached to your belt or backpack strap. You can then snap your camera on and have instant access whenever you need it. It’s definitely a life-changer for any outdoor photographer out there.

Check out more camera clip options here.


National Park Playing Card

Image courtesy: Etsy

Guys, I think I have found my favorite set of playing cards. This is definitely the best deck of cards you can ever buy for a Canadian hiker.

Each of the 52 cards in the deck features a different Canadian national park. The essence of each park is perfectly captured by the simplistic but elegant graphics. I’m so in love with it. It makes for a superb stocking stuffer or birthday present for those who love nature.

If anyone wants to buy one and send it to me, please do πŸ™‚


Columbia rain jacket

best gifts for hikers

Image courtesy: Columbia

Looking for a practical hiking gift? A rain jacket will do the job.

As a hiker, you should always expect the worse from the weather so it’s a good idea to have a rain jacket handy. I have been using this Columbia jacket for 2 years and it is still in great condition. Highly recommended.

Check out more rain jacket options here.

Best gifts for hikers under $25

These little hiking gifts won’t break the bank, but they can still show that you care. In fact, some of the best hiking gifts are the cheapest ones


Tenacious tape

Image courtesy: Amazon

This simple and inexpensive item will for sure make a great gift for any hiker because everyone has holes, burns, bite marks, and tears in their favorite gear. But instead of replacing them, you can get a roll of tenacious tape for just a few bucks.

Tenacious tape is a great solution for all the wear and tear problems (albeit only temporary). Buying new gear can be quite expensive and sometimes, it’s just hard to let go of that sleeping bag or jacket that has never left your side.

Check out more tenacious tapes here.


Hiking journals

Image courtesy: Etsy

Everyone has their own smartphone and tablet these days but nothing beats an old-school journal.

The Adventures Await journal is sleek and simple. With 140 pages, you’ll have lots of space to jot down thoughts, observations, or sketch anything that comes to mind really. They can be very fun to look back on some years down the road.

This adorable journal is thinner (32 pages), but it is meant to be a trail log. You can use it to record the date, hiking distance, and other details that stood out. It even has an adventure-related quote on each page to keep you inspired.

If you’re looking for a gift that is over the top, then consider getting this handmade leather journal. It is exceptionally well-made and you can even customize the front cover with any engraving you want (initials, quote, graphic).

Check out more hiking journals here.


Space pen

Image courtesy: Amazon

This space pen is not an essential item by any means, but it is so cool. It was originally designed for astronauts to write in space so it can handle pretty much anything. It can write at any angle, at extreme temperatures, in zero gravity conditions, or even underwater!

Space pen is perfect for hikers who love to jot things down in their journals. Definitely one of the most unique gifts I have come across.


New Balance performance hat

Image courtesy: Amazon

If anyone is looking for a cap to keep the sun out of your face while hiking, I would recommend the New Balance performance cap. It is light, moisture-wicking, and nicely ventilated you’ll never want to wear another hat again.

Check out more hiking hat options here.


Hiking-themed stickers

Image courtesy: Etsy

You might think stickers are only for kids, but think again. I know you’re in love with these adorable Hiking & Camping stickers too (photo above), like I am. They are sold in packs of 10, 20, or 50.

Some other cool stickers to check out include these ones (camping gear) and these ones (hiking-themed).

Stickers are so practical because can be used to decorate water bottles, mugs, laptops, notebooks, or phone cases. They are proofs that the best hiking gifts don’t always have to be the fanciest ones.

Check out more hiking-themed stickers here.

Read next: 13 Best Flashlights for Hiking and Backpacking – the Ultimate Guide

Best gifts for hikers under $50


Personalized power bank

Image courtesy: Etsy

I came across this custom wood power bank on Etsy and I’m so in love with it. It works like a normal power bank, but you can engrave someone’s name onto the beautiful bamboo cover. A great gift for any occasion!

We all hike to reconnect with nature and escape from our gadgets, but cell phone is pretty much an essential item nowadays. If you tend to use their phone for everything (GPS, taking photos, texting), then packing a power bank will give you the peace of mind you need.

Check out more power bank options here.


LifeStraw Go Water Filtered Bottle

Image courtesy: Amazon

The LifeStraw water bottle is equipped with a built-in filter that can destroy up to 99.99% of bacteria. You can now drink straight out of a lake, a river, or a tap if you’re traveling abroad.

What sets this bottle apart from the others is its 2nd stage carbon filter, which helps to reduce odor and aftertastes. It’s not hard to see why the LifeStraw Filtered Bottle is one of the best and coolest gifts for hikers.


Binoculars

Image courtesy: Amazon

Does anyone here love wildlife spotting? Approaching wild animals is a big no-no so consider packing a pair of binoculars. They are so handy to have on a hike because a moose or an eagle can appear at the most unexpected moment.

Binoculars are one of the best gifts for hikers because not everyone has one. This particular pair by Occer is compact, lightweight, and can magnify up to 12 times.

Check out more binoculars here.


Mountain pillow

Image courtesy: Etsy

Why would you have plain white pillows in your home when you can get one of those handmade hiking-inspired pillows? Not only will they be excellent decorations for your living room, they can also serve as inspirations for your next outdoor adventure.

I found these mountainscape pillows on Etsy to be so gorgeous, I wish I could get them all. Here are some of my favorite ones to consider (be noted that some of them are only pillowcases):

Check out more mountain pillows here.


Portable hammock

Image courtesy: Amazon

Hammocks are so underrated. It is perfect for anything from traveling and road trips to backcountry camping, yet, people never talk about it enough.

The Wise Owl hammock is super lightweight, packable, and affordable – you can really bring it anywhere. It only takes a minute to set up once you’ve used it a few times (comes with its own straps and carabiners).

This Momo Outdoors hammock is also a solid option. We all need to slow down and relax once in a while and with a handy hammock, you’ll never miss out on nap time again!

Check out more hammock options here.

Luxury gifts for hikers – over $100


Garmin InReach Mini

Image courtesy: Amazon

I am always against bringing expensive techs on the trail but the Garmin Inreach Mini is an exception. This device allows you to trigger a distress signal and communicate even in regions where there is no phone service.

Although expensive, the Garmin Inreach Mini is one of the best gifts for backpackers, especially those who often venture deep into the backcountry.

It does give you peace of mind, knowing that you can call for help just by pressing a button.


Salomon X Ultra 3 hiking shoes

Image courtesy: Amazon

If you really want to wow someone, a pair of high-quality hiking shoes will do the job because everyone needs some kind of footwear for their outdoor adventures.

The Salomon X Ultra 3 is considered to be one of the best hiking shoes currently on the market. It has a perfect balance of weight and durability, as well as great traction and impressive cushioning & foot support.

It is an all-around hiking shoe that can tackle any terrain so if you’re looking to buy hiking shoes, you can’t go wrong with this one.

Read next: Mid vs Low-cut Hiking Boots: How to Choose the Right Style
Read next: 15 Best Budget Hiking Backpacks Under $ 100 (2021)
Read next: Day Hike Packing List: Your Ultimate Guide on the Essential Gear (2021)


GoPro HERO9 Black

Image courtesy: Amazon

GoPros are quickly becoming very popular within the hiking community and for good reasons. They are known for their ability to take high-quality photos in harsh conditions like during a storm or underwater. They are designed to be waterproof, shockproof, and not to mention being way more compact than a regular camera.

Of course, they could never replace a professional DSLR camera but they still take pretty damn good pictures. So much value for its size and weight.


Garmin Forerunner watch

Image courtesy: Amazon

The Garmin Forerunner 245 is the ultimate gift for runners. This smartwatch is equipped with advanced features that allow it to track mileage and pace with ease, using a built-in GPS. It can even track your heart rate, stride length, and calorie burn. How amazing is that?

Check out more running watch options here.


MSR backpacking tent

Image courtesy: Amazon

The MSR Carbon Reflex Backpacking Tent makes for an incredible gift because it is among the top backpacking tents on the market. It is lightweight, sturdy, and can withstand pretty much all weather conditions, perfect for those who often venture deep into the backcountry.

Check out more backpacking tent options here.

Best essential gear gifts for hikers


Hydration bladder

Image courtesy: Amazon

Are you ready to take your backpacking game up a notch? You may want to consider investing in a hydration bladder. Not only that it is lighter than a plastic bottle, it also allows you to access water with ease.

Place the pouch in your backpack and attach the tube that is connected with the bladder onto your shoulder strap. This way, you can just sip away when you’re feeling thirsty. So convenient right?

Two of the best hydration bladders I have used are the Osprey and Platypus, but this bladder by CKE is also a great budget option.

Check out more hydration bladder options here.


Patagonia fleece sweater

Image courtesy: Backcountry

Patagonia is considered to be one of the best outdoor apparel brands on the market and this sweater does not disappoint. The full-zip Patagonia Better Sweater (women’s style) is one of my favorites because it is lightweight, super soft, and super cozy.

It is perfect for those chilly October hikes but it also works well as a warmth layer under your outer jacket (for winter). I almost never leave for the trail without this fleece sweater.

It also looks clean and stylish enough you can even wear it to school or work. I would highly recommend this sweater to anyone because of how practical it is.


Pocket knife

Image courtesy: Amazon

I think it’s always handy to have a small multi-purpose pocket knife with you, especially if you are venturing deep into the backcountry.

It’s a versatile item that offers lots of value for its size and weight. You can use it for opening packages, cutting cords, slicing food, making kindling, or if necessary, self-defense.

I never leave without my trusty Gerber US1 Pocket Knife. It’s large enough to be functional but small enough to fit in any pocket. The Kershaw pocket knife is another great option that is even more compact. It will definitely make a perfect gift for those who love camping, hunting, backpacking, or going on road trips.

Check out more pocket knife options here.


The North Face Pivoter backpack

Image courtesy: Amazon

The North Face Pivoter is an all-in-one backpack that is suitable for a wide range of activities. It can accompany you on day hikes, weekend trips, or to school/work.

There are so many great things about this backpack: high-quality material, durable, simplistic design, and lots of useful compartments. It even has a laptop sleeve that could also be used to hold a hydration bladder.

Overall, the North Face Borealis is a solid backpack from a reputable brand. It will certainly make a fantastic gift for any hiker.

Read next: Day Hike Packing List: Your Ultimate Guide on the Essential Gear
Read next: 15 Best Fanny Packs for Hiking and Backpacking


Black Diamond Distance Z trekking poles

Image courtesy: Amazon

These Black Diamond Distance Z poles are awesome gifts for hikers because they are durable, lightweight, and pack very small. They can help you to remain stable and balance, especially when carrying a heavy backpack.

Trekking poles are almost an essential item and can often be a hiker’s best friend. So you can’t really go wrong with giving them as gifts.

Check out more trekking poles options here.

Best gifts for backpackers


Marmot Helium sleeping bag

Image courtesy: Backcountry

Marmot is one of the most reputable outdoor brands and their sleeping bags will not disappoint. The Marmot Helium is down insulated and has a temperature rating of 15Β°F or about -7Β°C. It has a nice balance between weight, comfort, and insulation, making it my go-to bag for non-winter backpacking trips. You can check out some other amazing lightweight sleeping bags here.


Sawyer mini water filter

Image courtesy: Amazon

I always pack a water filtration system even if the trail is short because you never know when you’ll need it. If the trail is a bit longer, then it’s still better to filter your water along the way than having to carry 4 L from the start.

The Sawyer squeeze water filter is extremely light, compact, and user-friendly. All you have to do to filter water is squeeze (you can also suck directly on it). I’d highly recommend it to anyone who loves hiking.

Check out more backpacking water filter options here.


Headlamp

Image courtesy: Amazon

I can still remember receiving my Black Diamond 350 headlamp for Christmas a few years back. I was so excited because I have seen tomb raiders and explorers from movies wearing it, but believe it or not, a headlamp is an essential item for hiking too!

Every hiker should bring a reliable source of light with them (even on day hikes) because things can happen on the trail. Imagine getting lost or injured and having to fumble in the dark. That’s no fun, not to mention dangerous.

Check out more headlamp options here.


Backcountry trowel

Image courtesy: Amazon

A trowel is an essential item for all backpacking enthusiasts. A trowel is there to help you bury human waste. Most people don’t like talking about it but this is a responsible thing to do. You got to go when you got to go right?

The Deuce(R) Ultralight Trowel is sleek, lightweight, and one of the best inexpensive gifts you can get for a hiker.

Check out more trowels here.


Ursack Major bear sack

Image courtesy: Amazon

When camping in bear country, you need to store your food in a way that won’t attract bears to your tent. You can certainly use bear canisters or odor-proof bags, but the Ursack Major bear sack is hands down the best investment you can make. It is lighter, easier to pack, and does the job just as well

Made from durable bullet-proof fabric, the Ursack Major has no problem keeping bears and other creatures out. It will also save you the hassle of having to hang it after because you can just tuck it somewhere away from your camp or secure it to a tree.

Overall, this bear sack is worth every penny (if used often) and is no doubt one of the top gifts for hikers.


Enamel coffee mug

Image courtesy: Etsy

Not all of us drink coffee every morning from a mug, but regardless, mugs are amazing gifts for backpackers and campers. Especially when they are covered with mountain-themed designs and inspiring quotes.

Etsy is a good place to search for mugs because there are tons of artists who create beautiful handmade mugs. This mug has a simple design of a pine forest, which is perfect for nature lovers.

This other one is also my favorite; it says “I don’t need Therapy I just need to go CAMPING”. Which is very true.

Finally, this one (“you are my greatest adventure”) and this one (“and so the adventure begins”) are awesome gifts for newly-wed couples. Just send in their names and they will put them onto mugs. How cool is that?


Osprey Exos 58 L backpack

Image courtesy: Backcountry

The Osprey Exos 58 is an ultralight backpack that is ideal for multi-day trips and thru-hiking. Why pack heavy when you can pack light?

Not only that this backpack has an impressive weight to capacity ratio, it also has all the essential features like many of the other heavier backpacks. These including gear loops, various compartments, compression straps, a hydration sleeve, and a removable day pack.

Not to mention the well-padded shoulder straps and a highly ventilated back panel that are strategically made to ensure maximum comfort for users. As you can see, the Osprey Exos 58 is among the top ultralight backpacks on the market. If backpacking is your thing, then this is for sure a great investment.

Note: the women’s version of it is the Osprey Eja 58

Practical gifts for outdoor lovers


Camping chair

Image courtesy: Amazon

Do you know what would make superb gifts for nature lovers who are always on the go? Camping chair. Weighing only 2 lbs, the Trekology YIZI GO camping chair is an amazing all-around chair. Its easy-to-setup design and affordable price make it a very popular choice for beginners.

But you can go even lighter than that.

At only 1.1 lb, the Helinox Chair Zero is the ultimate lightweight camping chair. I love to bring it along when I go car camping for road trips because it is comfortable and can pack down pretty small.


Hip pack

Image courtesy: Amazon

The DAKINE Hip Pack can hold over 2 L in its two zippered compartments. It’s a great place to stash small items like your wallet, keys, trail map, sunscreen, and snacks for easy access (without feeling bulky). ___ a day hike, an afternoon walk, or just for day-to-day things around town.

Check out more hip pack options here.


Ultralight backpacking stove

Image courtesy: Amazon

It’s always nice to be able to cook hot meals when backpacking, because granola bars and dried food become boring after a few days. If you are a minimalist hiker like I am, then the BRS-3000T stove might be a good choice for you.

At only 25 g (just under 1 oz), the BRS-3000T is one of the lightest backpacking stoves there is. It won’t do anything fancy like simmer control or wind-blocking, but it can hold a flame pretty well.

Check out more backpacking stoves here.

Best book gifts for hikers & backpackers

Some of the best gifts for hikers are books because who doesn’t want to get inspired by them. Below are some of my favorites so check them out for yourself.


This Is a Book for People Who Love the National Parks

Image courtesy: Amazon

This miniature guidebook perfectly captures the charm of every national park in America with its cool facts quirky illustrations. Adults may prefer a more detailed guidebook with photographs but this is still a fantastic gift for children who love the outdoors.


National Geographic’s 100 Parks, 5000 Ideas 

Image courtesy: Amazon

National Geographic’s 100 Parks, 5000 Ideas is a magical book filled with inspirations. It is filled with stunning landscape photos, insider tips, and literally thousands of ideas for the ultimate outdoor adventure.

From the gorgeous lakes of Banff National Park to the iconic Grand Canyon, this guidebook will come in handy for trip planning. And it will surely fuel your wanderlust more than ever.


National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks

Image courtesy: Amazon

The National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks only focuses on the parks in the US, but it dives in even deeper. Along with gorgeous images guide book-styled writings, it also dives into details of wildlife, climate, culture, archaeology, and more. Everything that makes American national parks so special.

So if you know someone who is an outdoor fanatic (that lives in the US), consider getting them one of these. The book is just so comprehensive, detailed, and beautifully put together you can’t help but feel inspired.


Lonely Planet: Epic Hikes of the World

Image courtesy: Amazon

Looking for even more inspirations? We’re moving out of the US now.

Lonely Planet’s: Epic Hikes of the World is a fantastic guidebook that features 50 incredible hiking routes in 30 countries. From urban hiking trails to month-long expeditions, each hike is nothing similar to the others. They all share one distinctive feature, however, which is being epic.


The Field Guide: Eating Outdoors

Image courtesy: Amazon

This comprehensive cookbook has everything you need to know about making food outdoor. It features over 100 delicious recipes that require few (if any) utensils and minimal clean-up. They are ideal for camping, picnics, outdoor family gatherings, and more!


Thirst: 2600 Miles to Home

Image courtesy: Amazon

Thirst: 2600 Miles to Home is a must-read memoir for anyone who loves hiking and backpacking. It recalls the story of Heather Anderson, an American thru-hiker, as she tries to conquer the Pacific Crest Trail (2,700 mi or 4,300 km) in just 60 days.

She also talks about how she found the courage to walk away from her “traditional and predictable” life to seek out what most fulfills her, which I found to be inspiring because that is what I’m trying to accomplish with this blog.

Health & wellness supplies for hikers


Polarized sunglasses

Image courtesy: Amazon

You should never underestimate the sun, especially on long hikes in hot conditions. Which is why a pair of stylish and high-quality sunglasses will make for an amazing hiking gift. They are available in a wide range of prices, from the premium Ray-Ban sunglasses to the more budget-friendly Goodr sunglasses.

Sun protection is one of the essential items to pack when hiking.


First aid kit

Image courtesy: Amazon

The best gifts for hikers & backpackers are not necessarily the most glamorous or expensive gifts. This travel-sized first aid kit may not seem like the most fascinating gift, but it is certainly practical.

The kit is stocked with 175 pieces including bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, gloves, cotton swabs, an ice pack, and more. Any outdoor enthusiast would appreciate having one of these because it is so compact and light.

Check out more first aid kit options here.


Foam roller

Image courtesy: Amazon

It is crucial that we hikers take care of our muscles. They are what move our body and they are definitely beaten up after a long hike.

The TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller is designed with a multi-density exterior covering a hollow core. This is a technique that can reduce inflammation, relieve muscle tightness, soreness, increase your joint range of motion, and prevent injuries.

If you know someone who hikes often but doesn’t own one of these rollers, you’re about to change their life. Yes seriously.


Lip balm

Image courtesy: Amazon

Cracked lips and sunburnt lips are painful and they happen way more often than you think. So get your hiking-loving friend some Sun Bum lip balm to keep their lips moisturized and healthy (it has vitamin E and aloe.

I especially love this brand because it is cruelty-free and comes in all different flavors including key lime, watermelon, and banana.

Check out more lip balm options here.

Food gifts for hikers – the best gifts

Yellowbird hot sauce

Image courtesy: Amazon

Backpacking food can often be bland and boring, but they don’t have to be that way. With this travel-sized Yellowbird hot sauce kit, you can spice things up whenever and wherever you are. It’s the perfect gift for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking to take their backcountry meals up a notch.

They come in several different flavors including serrano, ghost pepper, and siracha, but these guys are far from your average hot sauce. Why not give the exotic blend of garlic, lime, and date a try!


Free-dried ice cream sandwich

Image courtesy: Amazon

Astronaut Ice Cream Sandwich is ice cream that has been freeze-dried (dehydrated) and is ready to eat straight from the package. No need to keep them in a freezer either!

Although the ice cream sandwich will look and feel dry, as soon as you pop it into your mouth, it will instantly melt into delicious goodness. It’s really amazing how it can be crunchy and creamy at the same time.

Bring some of these for those long hiking days so you can reward yourself with a treat at the end. I found that this really helps the mental aspect of backpacking because you have something to look forward to.

Check out more freeze-dried ice creams here.


Dried mango

Image courtesy: Amazon

Dried mango (or dried fruits in general) is a great hiking snack because it is tasty and nutritious. I always carry some with me on the trail to have some variety in what I eat. Some other good choices include pineapples, apricots, and strawberries.

Check out more dried fruits here.


Honey Stinger mini waffle

You’ll rarely catch me hiking without a package (or two) of Honey Stinger mini waffle. They are just so good. They’re sweet, crunchy, and provide a nice boost of energy that helps me to finish strong. I also really love these DAELMANS Stroopwafels for the same reasons.

Check out more waffle snacks here.

Best brands for hiking gear

While the list of gifts for hikers that I put together is quite comprehensive, there are countless other options to choose from. Here are some of the best and most reliable brands out there the help you with your research.

  • Osprey – backpacks
  • Gregory – backpacks
  • Patagonia – lots of great quality and innovative gear
  • Arc’teryx – high quality gear for hiking, backpacking, climbing, and skiing
  • Therm-a-Rest – sleeping pads
  • Smartwool – socks for hiking and backpacking
  • REI – outdoor gear of all kinds
  • Columbia – footwear, apparels, hiking & backpacking gear, they have it all
  • Icebreaker – merino wool garments
  • Zpack – ultralight gear

Take away – best gifts for hikers and backpackers

There you have it! A comprehensive guide of the best gifts for hikers with over 80 ideas. Which items are you most excited to get? Let me know in the comment below πŸ™‚

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *