2023 Gift Guide: 46 Best Gifts for Hikers Chosen by Hikers
what to give people who like hiking and walking, according to hikers
October 26, 2023
Hiking has surged in popularity recently, transcending its traditional status as a niche outdoor pursuit. Today, it has become a mainstream recreational activity embraced by people of all ages and backgrounds. The allure of hiking lies in its simplicity – the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the great outdoors. From serene nature walks to challenging summit treks, there's a hiking trail for everyone.
As individuals seek solace in nature, the demand for hiking-related gifts has grown in tandem with this trend. More and more people are looking for ways to enhance their hiking experiences, making thoughtful gifts for hikers a meaningful way to show appreciation for their passion and dedication to exploring the wilderness.
When it comes to selecting gifts for hikers, thoughtfulness is key. Hikers are a unique breed, and their gear and equipment can make or break their outdoor adventures. Unlike generic presents, gifts tailored to their hiking pursuits not only demonstrate your consideration but also enhance their safety, comfort, and enjoyment on the trails.
Thoughtful gifts for hikers showcase your understanding of their specific needs and interests, reflecting the time and effort you've invested in choosing something meaningful. Whether it's a reliable pair of hiking boots to protect their feet, a versatile multi-tool to handle trailside challenges, or eco-conscious gear to minimize their environmental impact, these gifts resonate deeply with hikers who cherish their time in nature.
Looking for more gift ideas? See our guide to Best Gifts for Backpackers.
How we selected the gifts
This list includes our favorite items this year—things we’ve personally given as gifts or presents we’ve enjoyed receiving.
Our theory of gift-giving is that the best gifts you can give are the ones loved ones already want but haven’t quite pulled the trigger on yet.
Our gifts for hikers span affordable luxuries to upgraded gear you can confidently gift the hikers in your life.
Here are 46 thoughtful gifts for the hiking enthusiast in your life.
We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.
The Best Gifts $200+
GARMIN INREACH MINI 2: A WAY TO ALWAYS STAY IN TOUCH
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 may be the best present you can get a loved one who is a hiker–because it’s actually a present for yourself!
On almost a weekly basis, a worried parent or spouse emails me about what to do about their solo backpacking or adventuring family member. Since the invention of the inReach Mini, my answer has become a simple: get one.
This two-way satellite transmitter turns a smartphone into a use-anywhere two-way texting machine. Plus, it has an SOS button to alert Search & Rescue in the case of an emergency.
At only 3.5 ounces, even the most minimalist backpacker won’t grumble at the weight. It seemed that nearly every thru-hiker our staff saw on trail this year wore a Mini on their pack strap as part of their uniform. See our in-depth review for more details about the Garmin inReach Mini 2.
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Nothing could be more classic than giving a watch as a holiday gift. The most desired GPS Sport watch among outdoors people is the newly released Garmin Fenix 7 Solar.
This full-color touchscreen watch is built to survive adventure with a scratch- and water-resistant face, long battery life, and highly accurate GPS and mapping capabilities.
Whether you’re running, cycling, kayaking, or backpacking, the Fenix can help with intelligent pace planning, preloaded topo maps, and ski maps for 2,000 resorts worldwide.
In addition to streaming and storing music, taking phone calls, and email, it also measures heart rate, oxygen levels, altitude, and barometric pressure – and tracks that data in a handy app.
See our detailed review of the fenix for why we think it is the best Altimeter, Barometer, and Compass Watch you can give.
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If your friend or family member was a hiker before they had a baby, a hiking baby carrier is essential.
A comfortable and well-fitting hiking carrier is indispensable if they're day-hiking, backpacking, traveling, or exploring a new city.
For new parents, the Osprey Poco Plus can be the ultimate gift to get back on the trail and experience the joy of being in nature with their loved one.
Factor in the storage space, built-in sunshade, and easy adjustability, and it’s no wonder this is our preferred choice out of all the hiking carriers we considered.
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4. OLYMPUS TOUGH TG-6 WATERPROOF CAMERA: A CAMERA THAT NATURE CAN'T DESTROY
Outdoorspeople are tougher than most people on their electronics. I’ve personally destroyed three cameras and several phones. The result is that I don’t have photos of thousands of miles of adventuring, a loss I lament on a near-daily basis.
When I bought the Olympus Tough Camera, not only was I unable to destroy it (I dropped it more times than I can count), but it captured some of the most important moments in my hiking career.
The TG-6 is so waterproof it was designed for snorkeling (see our photos!). It’s widely considered by camera nerds to take the finest quality photos of any waterproof consumer camera. This camera is so bomb-proof, it will likely outlast all other technology. See what our award-winning pro-photographer camera nerd has to say about the Olympus Tough Cameras in our Best Waterproof Camera guide.
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5. PATAGONIA MICRO PUFF JACKET
Nothing makes a great winter gift like a jacket. But with so many options, what is the best jacket to gift? We think the clear answer is the (men’s and women’s) Patagonia’s Micro Puff.
Its shell fabric is made with NetPlus® 100% post-consumer recycled nylon ripstop made from recycled fishing nets, and the insulation is 100% recycled polyester. Fair Trade Certified™ sewn. Plus, Patagonia items come with a lifetime no-questions-asked return and repair policy, so you know this is one gift they’ll be holding onto for a long time.
For other down jacket favorites, check out our Best Down Jackets guide.
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WOMEN'S
MEN'S
6. HOKA KAHA 2 GTX HIKING BOOTS: COMFORTABLE HAPPY HIKING FEET
Hiking boots have been a traditional holiday gift for decades. But these days, the trend skews towards a more lightweight hiking boot.
The Upgrade Award winner in our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide, the Hoka Kaha 2 is the most popular shoe among readers and the pair we hear about the most from Treeline fans. They’re the #1 hiking boot at REI and get gobs of praise from outdoor writers and everyday hikers alike.
If you’re thinking about giving hiking boots for the holidays, consider gifting these lightweight hiking boots! Their feet will thank you! — Treeline Review Editor-in-Chief, Liz Thomas
If lightweight isn’t a priority for your hiker, we also have a guide to The Best Hiking Boots.
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MEN'S
WOMEN'S
The Best Gifts $100-199
1. MSR EVO TRAIL SNOWSHOES
Many hikers struggle with winter because it's harder to hit the trail in all that snow. The MSR Evo snowshoes are single-handedly one of the bestselling items at outdoor stores in November and December.
Snowshoes make a great present for hikers because it’s giving the gift of being outdoors, even in the winter.
The Evo Trail is considered the gold standard of snowshoes: technical enough to take them on long trips but not too heavy to be annoying on short jaunts. They’re easy to put on and durable enough to sustain many years of tough use.
If you’ve ever heard someone say, “I wish I got out more in the winter,” snowshoes may be just what they need to bridge that seasonal gap on their adventures. To learn more, see our detailed review of the Evo Trail snowshoe.
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2. Shokz Open Run Headphones
LISTEN TO MUSIC AND STILL HEAR THE BIRDS (AND BEARS!)
I’d been reluctant to try wireless headphones—I always just used the free headphones that came with my phone. And bone-conducting headphones? Not even on my radar. But then, in the name of science and testing for Treeline Review, I tried on a demo pair of the Shokz Open Run headphones and bought them on the spot.
The Shokz Open Run is the new Best Situational Awareness winner in our Best Wireless Headphones for Running and Working Out, but I’m increasingly thinking situational awareness headphones are the best option for most. You just can’t beat hearing music or podcasts while being aware of what is around you. — Naomi Hudetz, Founder
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The Six Moon Designs Wy'east is the best daypack I’ve owned or used.
The Wy'east has a number of little features that make it a great daypack: stretchy, easy-to-access water bottle pockets big enough for a Nalgene bottle; a large stretch front pocket perfect for snacks or rain gear; a zipped interior “stash pocket” to keep a wallet secure; a zippered hood pocket with a hook to secure your keys; and my favorite...shoulder pockets that are big enough for a phone, snacks, and sunscreen. There is even a removable hydration pocket and dual hydration ports.
A winner in our Best Day Packs for Hiking guide, the Wy'east has been my primary daypack, computer bag, and travel pack for the past 3 years. As hiking becomes more popular and more folks are looking for hiking backpacks, the Wy'east works well for a variety of situations, hikes, and everyday life. — Mike Unger, Contributing Writer
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4. PATAGONIA HOUDINI JACKET: LIGHT ENOUGH FOR A STOCKING STUFFER, POWERFUL ENOUGH TO LAST YEARS
My Patagonia Houdini Jacket (men’s and women’s) is my favorite piece of gear. I’ve carried this wind shirt on every backpacking and bikepacking trip I’ve taken over the last 15 years.
Everyone needs a wind shirt. It is the perfect way to stay warm on cool mornings or during a break, provides excellent bug protection, and is an essential piece of my wet and cold-weather layering system. Some folks argue that a wind shirt is unnecessary because a lightweight rain jacket serves the same purpose. I strongly disagree. A rain jacket is not as breathable and cannot be easily carried in a pocket. Plus, overuse of rain jackets can cause their waterproof membrane to clog, thus reducing their effective life.
The Houdini is my favorite wind shirt because it has a hood (extremely important for bug protection and added warmth) and has proved to be very durable. I’m on my third Houdini over the last 15 years, over 25,000 long trail miles, plus thousands of cycling miles. The recycled nylon shell only becomes softer and more comfortable with age. — Mike Unger, Contributing Writer
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WOMEN'S
MEN'S
The Gregory Packs Plus Size Arrio has been one of my favorite pieces of gear in the last almost two years since Gregory launched a partnership with Unlikely Hikers and Jenny Bruso, coming out with a collection of day and overnight packs for bigger bodies. All of the bags I’ve tested so far in this line have been amazing, but the Arrio stands out.
The bag is lightweight and tough. The bungee system on the front is versatile, equally capable carrying my towels and sandals on the hike down to the lake or holding an extra layer on a snowy trail.
Mostly though, my favorite thing about the bag is the fit. The waist straps are comfortably narrow, providing support I’d never experienced before with a hiking pack.
Giving the Arrio to a larger-bodied friend you care about is more than just gifting a nice backpack: it’s gifting access, gifting an item that speaks to their needs, and overall it is gifting an extremely solid day pack. — Gabi Reyes-Acosta, Contributing Writer
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6. Ibex Indie Hoodie
There are some layers that are just good for everything, and the Ibex Indie Hoodie is one of them. I’m a big fan of natural fibers, and this hoodie is made with 100% merino wool—no synthetics in the mix here. This lightweight wool layer is a go-to for cool weather hiking and backpacking, though it’s breathable enough to wear in warmer temps, too. In the winter, it transitions seamlessly as a base layer for winter hiking and ski touring.
It has a premium feel and the build quality is apparent from this small Colorado brand, which is just another reason that it makes such a nice gift.
— Stasia Stockwell, Contributing Writer
View the Ibex Indie Merino Hoody
The Best Gifts: $50-99
1. NATIONAL PARKS PASS: UNLIMITED ACCESS TO THE OUTDOORS
The National Parks Pass is a little card that gets you FREE ADMISSION into every National Park and most other public land with entrance fees. It’s an essential item for outdoors people, and REI donates 10% of the sale to the National Parks Foundation.
Technically called the “America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass,” the pass will also get you free admission to National Monuments and waived recreation fees at US Fish & Wildlife Refuges, Forest Service forests and grasslands, and Bureau of Land Management sites.
For example, Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas uses it as a parking pass at trailheads in Southern California in lieu of the Adventure Pass (which costs $5 per hike at trailheads).
Since the Interagency Pass only lasts a year – and is a near-essential item for every outdoors person – it’s the perfect gift for the person who has everything.
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If you like the idea of gifting hiking boots but are worried about sizing, we have the perfect gift idea: Kahtoola microspikes. These ice traction devices keep them active on trails all year round by working as ice grippers on slippery trails.
Ice traction devices do more than just help you stay upright while shoveling snow or navigating the grocery store parking lot. Sure-footed traction in snow and ice allows them to carry their hiking life into the shoulder seasons and beyond. Ice cleats help you get across steep snowfields and run in all kinds of inclement conditions.
It's amazing how much more pleasant and secure hiking can feel while wearing ice grippers. The Kahtoola Microspikes are the Overall winner in our Best Winter Traction guide. This is a gift that will last for years of much happier trails.
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3. CASCADE TECH TREKKING POLES: A TRUSTY HIKING ESSENTIAL
If you have a friend getting into hiking, one of the nicest gifts you can get is a pair of trekking poles. Hiking poles take the pressure off joints and bones and can help extend how many miles they can hike easily. It also makes carrying a backpack with heavier loads more manageable.
While hiking poles are often the 4th or 5th thing a new hiker may purchase, poles tend to be a more challenging gear decision because of the variety of types and wide price discrepancies. Helping with challenging gear decisions is where a good friend can come in.
We recommend gifting the Cascade Tech Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles, which won our award for the Best Budget Hiking poles winner in our Best Trekking Poles guide. At less than $50, these lightweight poles are still sturdy and durable, easy to adjust, and intuitive to use. — Liz Thomas, Editor-in-Chief
VIEW THE CASCADE TECH TREKKING POLES
Worried about a loved one going hiking or camping in a national park? Get them some Bear Spray! Bear spray is like pepper spray for bears and is a good idea for folks who enjoy spending time outdoors in bear country.
If you’re thinking about gifting bear spray, it may also be worth getting that person an inert bear spray to practice using the live canister. The inert bear spray is the same shape and size, but instead of having pepper spray inside, it has a harmless substance. It’s much less expensive than the real thing, so it’s perfect for training.
Note that not all national parks allow bear spray – notably Yosemite – so check to see what parks your friends or loved ones are visiting before getting this gift. Also, be aware that they can’t be brought on planes (they are an aerosol, after all).
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5. BIOLITE HEADLAMP 425: A BETTER TAKE ON A HIKING ESSENTIAL
After three years of testing and almost 5,000 backpacking miles of data, we think the BioLite HeadLamp 425 is a no-brainer gift for every hiker. A headlamp is one of the Ten Essentials, the 10 items every hiker should carry to stay safe. The BioLite 425 is a major upgrade on every headlamp we've ever used.
It’s our overall winner above 27 other headlamps in our Best (and Brightest) Headlamps guide. This year, it jumped ahead of the trusty Black Diamond Spot 400 headlamp to snag our Overall winner award.
Whether you need a gift for a runner who wants a bounce-free headlamp, a hiker who wants something that rides comfortably, or a camper who needs a headlamp that angles well, the BioLite 425 hasn’t failed us in almost 500 nights of daily use. — Treeline Review Team
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The Best Gifts $30-49
1. Trekking Board Game
As an outdoor lover and board game fan, I was excited to find Trekking: The National Parks The Board Game at my go-to board game store in Denver. I purchased Trekking for myself in the winter as I dreamed of warmer temperatures and all the places I wanted to visit. I liked it so much that I bought a copy for my national park-obsessed sibling in October.
The cards in the game have facts about the national parks and exposed me to many parks that I hadn’t even heard of. Now, the list of national parks I want to visit is even bigger!
Trekking is also available as a new Trekkin’ the World game that includes UNESCO world heritage sites like Mt. Fuji and Machu Picchu. For those more into trivia, the Trekking National Parks Trivia game uses Price-is-Right-style rules to guess important dates and numbers. This way of winning alleviates some of the negative know-it-or-you-don’t feelings that Trivial Pursuit can sometimes give players.
With beautiful art, fun mechanics, and positive feelings for game players, the Trekking games are a fun gift you can play with your friends and family during the holidays and beyond. — Treeline editor, Liz Thomas
Trekking the National Parks
Dog people can be picky—I should know. The Ruffwear Front Range harness is my favorite piece of dog gear and would make a great gift for any dog owner. It’s versatile and attractive, fitting in at the brewery and on trips deep in the backcountry.
My favorite part about this harness is the durable front clip. At first, I was skeptical: it’s made of webbing and looked like something my strong, 62-pound Juniper could easily break. But after about three years of heavy usage, it’s yet to give. It also works with the winner in our Best Dog Hiking Packs guide.
Whether this is a gift for a friend looking to start adventuring with their pup, or just a gift for yourself, you can’t go wrong with the Front Range Harness. —Gabi Reyes-Acosta, Contributing Writer
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3. Trekking UMBRELLA: A WAY TO ALWAYS STAY DRY (OR OUT OF THE SUN)
An umbrella may not seem like an essential gear item, but once you’ve hiked with one, it’s hard to go back. In the rain, it keeps water off your rain jacket, which keeps you feeling warmer. In the sun, it can be used for shade. A high-quality pocket umbrella doesn’t weigh much or take up much room in a backpack, but can give a lot of peace of mind should a storm come.
While I own a pocket umbrella for hiking, more often than not, I use that same umbrella for going around town. Outdoor pocket umbrellas are designed to be sturdier in the wind than everyday umbrellas. They also weigh less and are more compact. That makes them convenient for use in town, for travel and commuting, and of course, for the outdoors.
An outdoors person will be thrilled to receive a lightweight umbrella – even if they end up using it more around town than in the backcountry!
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When the threadbare bra I'd been wearing hiking and backpacking for the last 5+ years finally progressed to having full-on holes in the back, I started panicking. I've had my eye out for my next hiking bra for years. Still, nothing ever seemed to check all of my boxes: supportive enough, acceptable as a bathing suit, minimal enough to dry quickly, no poorly placed hooks or snaps that dig under a pack strap, and no removable padding that just rolls up into little hotdogs after every wash.
I was so relieved to find the Branwyn Essential Bralette! Its seamless, single-layer fabric design is super comfortable but still supportive enough for low-impact activities (I'm a 34B).
If you're unsure about a bra as a gift idea, Branwyn also has an amazing "first pair guarantee." It allows you (or whoever is receiving your gift) to try out sizes and styles on your first order with the ability to return after wearing. That's pretty rare in the outdoor industry, so it makes the Branwyn a practical gift for the hiker, backpacker, or outdoorsy person in your life. — Kate Hoch, Contributing Writer
VIEW THE BRANWYN ESSENTIAL BRALETTE
5. ARCADE BELT
After some time backpacking, it’s easy to lose weight. Even a day of walking can stretch out a pair of pants. A quality belt can keep pants from falling down. Our tester reports that it finally solved her most frustrating problem on the trail – it keeps her pants from falling down after bending over to pick something up (usually a hiking pole) and then getting bunched up under her backpack’s hip belt.
The Arcade Ranger belt is washable, so you don’t need to remove it before washing your pants. The Ranger is one size fits most thanks to its ingenious micro-adjust belt buckle. It has no metal, so you don’t have to take it off before going through airport security. It also comes in fun colors.
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6. HYDRO FLASK INSULATED FOOD JAR: Hot meal on cold hikes
As I ate my hot meal on the summit, I couldn’t help but look at the other hikers eating their granola bars and think, “Suckers!” As I ate my hot soup, I schemed how my future early morning hikes for the next 6 months would involve hot food.
If your loved one does any snowshoeing, ski touring, or hiking in the winter, the Hydro Flask Food Jar is a game-changer. I’ve been taking my Food Jar on alpine ascents this November and December. While I thought it’d be a nifty novelty to have hot chili on the top of a snow-covered peak, I could not have predicted how life-changingly pleasant the experience would be.
This is a good gift for fans of Hydroflask who already have more water bottles than they can count or for outdoorsy people who have everything. They also come in an assortment of colors and boast a Lifetime Warranty. While it’s perfect for outdoors people, I suppose it comes in handy for lunchtime in “real life,” too.
— Liz Thomas, editor in chief
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Call me over-prepared, but I don’t go out on any adventure without a medical kit. (Being a guide, volunteer firefighter, and W-EMT will do that to you.) The opportunity arose to test out an Adventure Medical Kit meant for camping, hiking, paddling, and climbing — and now I don’t pack anything more than this.
This medical kit is compact, waterproof, and easily fits into the brain of a backpack or tucked inside of a small drybag. It holds all of the necessary items — wound care, bandages, medications, moleskin, duct tape, tweezers — in a silnylon pouch that all weighs a mere eight ounces. Who doesn’t want to be prepared? —Josette Deschambeault, Contributing Writer
Read more about outdoor gear that can double as your Home Emergency Kit.
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8. FANNY PACK
Not just for the 80s, fanny packs are a trendy and helpful accessory for easy access to your phone, wallet, or snacks. Fanny packs are a practical outdoor gift that can also be used in town, at school or at festivals.
Fanny packs are great for hikers, bikers, backpackers, and bikepackers. They’re helpful for rafters and even for everyday use around town.
These days, you can find a fanny pack in every color and style imaginable. Our favorites are:
The Mountainsmith Tour Lumbar pack is for those who want the capacity of a hiking backpack without any stress on the shoulders. It’s a thoughtful present for someone who loves being outside but has had shoulder surgery or back issues. Plus, it can fit a laptop and double as an around-town bag.
The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole for a smaller fanny pack with a sleek look suited for festivals and looking cool around town.
The Cotopaxi Bataan for those who like bright colors, recycled material, and a compelling story by a B-corp.
Whichever fanny pack you get, it’s a practical and fun gift. For even more creativity, you can stuff it with other presents like gift cards, granola bars, or even electronics like earbuds or a GPS watch. — Treeline Review Team
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The Best Gifts from $11-29
1. DARN TOUGH SOCKS: A LIFETIME GUARANTEE ON HAPPY FEET
It seems like every year, we always recommend Darn Tough socks in our gift guides because they’re that perfect.
When a hiker receives a pair of Darn Tough socks, it’s a level of excitement that exceeds the value of the present. These plush, perfectly fitting socks are made in the US, come in fun colors and patterns, and feel incredibly comfortable and cozy on the feet.
Best yet—Darn Tough socks have a lifetime guarantee. If you don’t love them or they get holes, Darn Tough has the best warranty in the outdoor industry.
Darn Tough socks won our Best Overall Hiking socks in our Best Hiking Socks guide and Best for Ski Touring and Best Synthetic Socks awards in our Best Ski Socks guide.
So if you want a no-brainer gift for the outdoors person in your life, grab them some Darn Tough socks. You’ll be surprised at just how thrilled they might be about receiving a pair. — Co-founders Liz Thomas, Naomi Hudetz, and pretty much everyone on the Treeline Review Team
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2. APPALACHIAN TRAIL OR PACIFIC CREST TRAIL OR CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL WALL MAPS
Got a distance hiker in your life? Know someone headed on the trail this year? There’s nothing hikers love more than maps, and a wall map of their dream trail is the perfect inspiration to get them prepped for their next adventure.
The National Geographic wall maps of the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail are something I have hanging on my own walls. While dreaming of my next trail during a busy workday, these maps take me away to a different place. Just looking at the map of a trail that I’ve hiked before brings me calmness. Trail maps aren’t a spendy gift, but they will be much appreciated by anyone who has hiked the trails or someday hopes to take a backpacking trip on these iconic trails.
If you know someone hiking either trail, you can also check out our PCT Gear List & Strategy and Appalachian Trail Gear List & Strategy guides for more gift ideas!
Appalachian Trail Wall Map
Pacific Crest Trail Wall Map
Continental Divide Trail Wall Map
3. TICK KIT: TICK REMOVAL TOOL, DEET BUG SPRAY, PERMETHRIN BUG TREATMENT
Do you know someone who hates bugs? Or spends a lot of time outdoors in tick country? Whether they do yard work in the spring or backpack in the summer, this themed gift pack will gear them up to stay bug-free.
We’re fans of the Tick Remover Tool from our Essential Backpacking Accessories story. This lightweight tool is easier to use than tweezers when removing a tick embedded in the skin. The advantage of the card is that it fits in a wallet like a credit card, so you’ll always have it on hand when you need it.
Hopefully, the other two parts of your present can prevent tick bites in the first place. Permethrin is a spray-on application to put on clothing a day or two before use. Spray it on, let it dry, and it repels mosquitos and ticks for up to 25 washes. DEET applied to clothing also repels bugs (but it’s only good for one wash). Paired together, your gift recipient will have ultimate bug-repelling power.
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TOOL
Bug Spray
Permethrin
4. RAWLOGY CORK MASSAGE BALL: BACKPACK-FRIENDLY MASSAGE
The Rawlogy ball is our favorite ultralight massage tool to throw into a backpack for hikes or climbs.
Rawlogy Cork balls are designed by hikers for self-massage. It only weighs 1.4 ounces (and the mini version only weighs 0.7 ounces!). And they’re made from recycled wine corks (yay for the environment). Being made of cork also means it is grippy even when wet.
One of the most popular gear items we saw on the PCT this year, this massage ball makes it easy to roll out IT bands, plantar fasciitis, or other foot issues while on trail (or on the go). It has a similar density to traditional massage balls made of rubber but is made of a material that is up to 1/5th the weight. The Rawlogy Ball is a winner in our Essential Backpacking Accessories story about overlooked small items that can make a hike a lot better. — Naomi Hudetz, Co-founder
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5. KULA CLOTH: UPGRADED BATHROOM EXPERIENCE
Nature’s call can’t be avoided: everybody pees. But the squat that many of us pop when heading outdoors to hike, camp, climb, ski, and more can be problematic. What should we do with the toilet paper we use after using the “facili-trees” (as Kula Cloth’s founder Anastasia Allison calls them)? Is it better to forego TP altogether for the sake of Leave No Trace—but at the expense of slightly odorous pants?
A Kula Cloth features silver-infused, highly-absorbent black fabric with a waterproof backing—meaning the cloth is completely odor-proof, and my hands never touch the residual liquid. Manufactured and milled in the USA, the Kula Cloth is hypoallergenic, mostly organic, and the best new piece of gear I’ve found in years. Starting at $20, you can’t go wrong with a Kula Cloth. It will change everything about how you (or your loved ones that also squat to pee) experience the outdoors. — Dani Reyes-Acosta, Contributing Writer
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6. THE DEUCE #3 UL TROWEL: MAKE THE WORST PART OF THE DAY BETTER
Maybe you know someone who just got into hiking during the pandemic. They’re starting to build up their hiking “kit,” and they’re geeking out over gear and just how “light” their load can be. If so, TentLab’s The Deuce Ultra Light Trowel would make a great stocking stuffer while also encouraging them to make the right decision for the environment.
The Deuce is an ultralight trowel used to dig holes for going #2 in the woods. Yep… it’s a poop trowel. I know what you’re thinking—that’s gross. But The Deuce is a sophisticated piece of backpacking gear. It’s made from the same aluminum alloy created by DAC (the company that provides many tent companies with tent poles and stakes). Pull out The Deuce amongst a group of thru-hikers, and they’ll be impressed.
There are three different models to choose from, ranging from super light and small to more heavy-duty—all of which deliver the same efficiency at digging holes no matter where you are outside. We guarantee the backpacker in your life will be very pleased to find The Deuce in their stocking. (Apologies in advance for any poop jokes that are sure to ensue.) — Gianna Starble, Contributing Writer
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7. HEX DETERGENT: REVIVE THEIR FAVORITE HIKING CLOTHES
Sometimes the best gift is the one that also benefits the gift-giver. If you live, work, or spend your holidays with a hiker, chances are you know the smell of clothes or gear that never seem to get clean—no matter how many times they’re washed.
Although sports detergent is a relatively inexpensive gift, it’s one of those things we bought that significantly improved our daily existence. (Turns out that hiker clothes from perpetually smelly to only-stinky-after-use is a real mood booster.) It’s biodegradable and climate pledge friendly. If their odor is extreme, though, give them the Hex Detergent.
While it may seem like a backhanded gift to give a hiker sports detergent, trust us—they’ll be stoked. Finding a good sport detergent that actually works takes trial and error. They’ll be overjoyed to receive one that actually works.
—Editorial Team
HEX DETERGENT
This 0.8-ounce knife has all the significance of gifting a pocket knife with all the thoughtfulness of weight consciousness for outdoor use.
With seven tools, this Swiss-made tool has everything most hikers want and nothing extra. We use the knife to cut open resupply packages on multi-month treks or slice the cheese or apples on day hikes. The scissors make it easier to repair gear, open food packaging, and trim our fingernails.
One customer even reported replacing its toothpick with a firefly ferro rod, which creates a spark when rubbed against the file to use as a fire starter. It’s the classic Swiss Army knife with just the essentials. Best yet, it’s less than $20.
To show off your ultralight cred, grab a Gossamer Gear logo-ed one.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE SWISS ARMY CLASSIC KNIFE
You grab your water bottle for a hike, but what about water for Fido? Or your trip runs long and Rex keeps reminding you that he’s hungry? BarkBowl silicone dog bowls are easy to clip to a backpack (or stored inside of your dog’s backpack), durable enough to withstand puppies and old pooches alike, and are microwave and freezer safe. (Read: you can take them out on a hot hike or on a dawn patrol ski mission.)
They’re BPA-free and dishwasher compatible. Collapsed, the entire bowl measures 6 inches in diameter; you can pop it up to hold 2-17 ounces of water or just over 3 cups of food at full capacity. It’s easy to tuck in your backpack, raft, or under your car seat for any last-minute adventures. (And it fits in stockings pretty well, too.) — Josette Descheambeault, contributing writer
VIEW THE BARKBOWL SILICONE DOG BOWLS
CNOC Outdoors Vecto water containers are our favorite collapsible water container in our Arizona Trail Gear List. These durable water containers make filtering water easy because they thread with both Sawyer Squeeze and Katadyn BeFree water filters, two top picks in our Best Water Filters story.
The CNOCs are stronger and more reliable than other water bags we’ve carried. They’re made of TPU (which stands for thermoplastic polyurethane) that isn’t as easily delaminated or punctured as most plastics.
When you don’t need full water capacity, the CNOCs compress down to a little more than the size of an unfilled Ziplock bag. The wide mouth makes it easy to fill from natural water sources, even when creeks are trickling at low angles or low flow.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE CNOC OUTDOORS VECTO WATER CONTAINER
Comfortable socks are a small but impactful gift that every hiker will appreciate, especially when they’re a few miles into a long trek. Tough Cutie Original Eve socks are lightweight yet super cushy, and the mix of wool, nylon and spandex makes them breathable and sweat-wicking while also being more durable than many other merino wool socks.
They’ve got all the details that make hiking socks great (and keep feet blister-free), like mesh ventilation, compression zones, and cushioning at the heel and toe. They also come in rich colors that look great popping out of the top of hiking boots. — Ebony Roberts, Contributing Writer
Tough Cutie Eve Hiker Socks
Stocking stuffers $10 or less
You don’t have to spend a lot to be give a thoughtful and luxurious gift to someone you care about. Whether you’re tasked with holiday giving for work or want to show a hiking group buddy you care, these are our favorite small gifts for hikers.
1. Box of Assorted Energy Bars and gels
Almost every hiker goes ga-ga to try new flavors of bars, gels, and performance drinks. Everyone is always trying to find the best-tasting new bar or next interesting flavor.
Here are 12 of the most popular energy foods this season:
ProBar Meal Bars, including Superberry & Greens or Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Powder (our one of most popular items at Treeline!)
Honey Stinger Energy Waffles (also available in Gluten-Free)
Kate’s Real Food Bivy Bar, including Lemon Coconut Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate
Tip: If you’re giving Performance Food Gift Sets to several people as a stocking stuffer or office/hiking group presents, you can get items like Nuun tubes or GU 24-Pack in bulk to save even more.
For more stocking stuffer hiking-related gift ideas, check out our guide to The Best Electrolyte Powders.
2. JACK BLACK INTENSE THERAPY LIP BALM WITH SPF 25
Something I always need? Lip balm with SPF. Something I never think to buy for myself until I’m in the elements, lips cracking? Lip balm with SPF. There are lots of lip balm options out there with various active ingredients, but I’ve learned to love the Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm. It goes on smooth and keeps my lips happy when the sun’s reflecting off water and snow, as well as on top of windy summits.
For chemical-sensitive buyers, the organic formula for this balm incorporates shea butter and avocado oil for an extra moisturizing, liquid texture—no chunks of beeswax hanging out on your face. And since sharing lip balm is not exactly in the interest of public health these days, having a few extras kicking around in day packs and dry bags ensures I can dig around and not be left empty-handed on my next outdoor adventure. — Bri Dostie, Contributing Writer
COMPARE PRICES OF THE JACK BLACK INTENSE THERAPY SPF LIP BALM
Are you looking for a practical gift that is a stocking stuffer with some personality? We’re fans of Buff Neck Gaiters, which makes its way into our Gear Lists for trips from the PCT Gear List and Strategy to Bikepacking trips of the White Rim Trail and rafting trips in Alaska.
Buff neck gaiters double as beanies for cooler nights in the sleeping bag and ski masks to protect your face from cold air. We’ve even seen some people use them as tube tops or skirts in a pinch (not recommended)!
There’s a Buff fabric and design for everyone. Whether your loved one is :
a National Park fan who wants to rep their favorite park
a hiker who wants a Buff with a National Scenic Trail on it
a hunter in need of everything bright orange with UPF sun protection
a winter Enthusiasts who want something extra warm for snowy adventures.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE BUFF NECK GAITER
Leukotape for the feet and KT tape to support pained muscles may not be the hippest thing to gift an outdoors person. But for runners, trail runners, hikers, and backpackers, it’s an essential item.
Too often, I run into an outdoor enthusiast who knows they should use tape, but can’t seem to get themselves to purchase it. They'll bum off friends and swear that the pain will go away soon.
When you give them sports tape, it means they’ll always have it on hand and will have no excuses not to practice the self-care they need.
LEUKOTAPE and KT TAPE
5. NOSO PATCHES: A FUN WAY TO REPAIR GEAR
Every hiker gets holes and rips in their favorite gear items, but Noso Patches can save the day. These fun designs bring color and life to the repair process. We like the Noso Patchdazzle Gear Repair kit that comes with stencils to make patches into fun designs.
These patches are the easiest way to gear repair for everything from tents, to down jackets, to sleeping pads. They don’t require cutting, sewing, heat, or glue to stop leaking down or fix ripped or punctured nylon.
Noso Patches come in fun colors and shapes like bears, mountains, and even a National Park-themed patches (very useful if your hiker walks into a cactus). We love the Joshua Tree National Park and Zion patches in particular.
It’s washable, and our down jacket writer even has a taped and repaired puffy that has lasted ten years and counting. It's such an improvement on messy duct tape for repairs. We hope your loved ones won’t have to repair gear in the field, but when they do, Noso Patches make the experience pleasant.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE NOSO PATCHES
The Rite in the Rain waterproof, lightweight notebooks are a place to journal, draw, and otherwise document your outdoor trip. They’re significantly more durable than a standard paper journal (which tend to disintegrate with any water exposure or over a long carry).
The Rite in the Rain Mini notebooks weigh less than an ounce and come with 24 pages. I usually fill one in about a month, but luckily, they come in packs of 3. They work with pencils or Sharpies in wet and dry conditions.
What I like best is that the paper won’t tear or turn to mush like other notebooks. I have a dozen of these journals documenting many trails’ worth of memories. I look forward to reading them in old age. Unlike my paper journals, they’ll still be around.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE RITE IN THE RAIN NOTEBOOK
Name your own price gifts
These thoughtful gifts are outside-of-the-box, but show you really care.
1. a personalized, GUIDED HIKING TRIP
Take a guided hike of hidden trails in Iceland. Photo courtesy 57Hours.
If you're loved one has always dreamed about hiking in a certain national park or another country— but would feel comfortable going with a knowledgeable and certified mountain guide, 57Hours makes it easy to find a credentialed guide for any destination and any sport.
You can search Hiking by destinations for trips in locations worldwide.
Some of the trips we're drooling over include:
There's also domestic hiking trips in destination areas like national parks. In the U.S:
For everything else, there is always the super popular adventure gift card, which includes guided rock climbing, mountain biking, and classes like avalanche safety and awareness.
VIEW THE 57 HOURS GIFT CARD
2. A GIFT TO A CONSERVATION ORGANIZATION IN THEIR NAME
To keep playing outdoors, we need to conserve the nature that we have and create the next generation of responsible hikers.
Our writers and editors included a few of their favorites:
Oregon Natural Desert Association - a group that (among other things) oversees the Oregon Desert Trail and favorite of editor Naomi Hudetz
Global Majority in the Outdoors, Nature, and Environment (PGM ONE) is a favorite of editor Amanda Jameson and provides BIPOC people working professionally in the outdoors, environmentalism, and sustainability spaces with opportunities to experience community, work to heal from racialized and other forms of trauma, and share information on employment in the outdoors-related industries.
Lynn Canal Conservation - a group that works in the Chilkat and Chilkoot of Alaska and favorite of senior writer Josette Deschambeault, who recommends you watch this video Rock, Paper, Fish to learn more about their work.
The Venture Out Project leads backpacking and wilderness trips for the queer and transgender community and is a favorite of our former communications director Lauren Hudgins.
Want to give an experience rather than a thing? REI has classes and events across the country covering a wide span of activities and interests. Bonus - they’re reasonably priced. Here’s a (tiny) sampling:
VIEW ALL CLASSES AT REI
Still not sure what to get a friend or family member? Do what my family does and give the REI Gift Card. Even if you’ve got an excellent grasp on what a person likes, sometimes it can be tricky knowing what gear they already own. REI Gift cards never expire and can be used on any item.
Best yet, this season, REI will donate $1 for every gift card purchased–no minimum purchase required.
VIEW THE REI GIFT CARD
