Ultimate List of Hiking Gifts and Gift Ideas

Finding the perfect gift is a challenge. It takes knowledge of products and insight into a loved one's passions and interests. This gift guide shares suggestions for the hiker and adventurer in your life. There are hiking gifts and suggestions for all skill levels and price points!

HIKING

11/15/202416 min read

gift boxes on table
gift boxes on table

Ultimate List of Gift Ideas for Hikers

Finding the perfect gift is a challenge. It takes knowledge of products and insight into a loved one's passions and interests. It can feel like an impossible scavenger hunt as you go from store to store, or website to website, scouring for ideas that will make the person's face light up as they unwrap the present that you share with them. But, when you find that perfect gift...it is SUCH an amazing feeling. They say that giving is better than receiving, and I believe there is a lot of truth to that!

The gift ideas on this page will be grouped into categories to guide your browsing! The categories are:

Note: This page is full of product recommendations. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases (at no additional cost to you).

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Hiking Stocking Stuffers or Small Gifts

If you are looking for a small gift, an inexpensive gift, or a stocking stuffer, look no further. This list is for you! You'll find various hiking related products. Some are fun, some are useful, but all will be enjoyed and appreciated!

Hoyle Waterproof Playing Cards

Hikers and backpackers need to kick back and have some fun too! These waterproof playing cards are perfect for a game of cards while on the go. They come in a case and are printed on plastic card stock. They are flexible and made to last! Your favorite outdoor lover will appreciate this fun gift!

Waterproof Knot-Tying Cards with Carabiner

These cards provide step-by-step, color-coded knot tying instructions. They can be clipped to a pack for easy access, and they are durable and waterproof. They will help your outdoor enthusiast to be prepared for unexpected situations!

Microfiber Camping Towel

A microfiber camping towel is a great gift for a multi-day hiker or backpacker. This towel is super-absorbent, lightweight, and quick-drying. It also comes in its own case! The towels are available in a variety of sizes and colors.

Atomic Bear Paracord Bracelet (2-pack)

This paracord bracelet is a must-have for any hiker or backpacker. It comes with a fire starter, emergency whistle, compass, and 10 feet of military grade paracord. It is adjustable to fit a man, woman, or child. This gift will be appreciated and bring peace of mind to any hiker or backpacker.

Mossy Oak Multitool

This stainless steel multitool has a self-locking design and comes in a durable nylon pouch. Its built-in tools will help the outdoor enthusiast to be prepared for almost any situation! The tools include: needle nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, magnetic hexagon sleeve, screwdriver, knife, scale, metal/wood file, serrated knife, bottle opener & slotted screwdriver, wood saw, leather punch, 8-in-1 bit set and more. Any hiker or backpacker would appreciate this gift!

Dr. Scholl's Moleskin Padding

This is a practical gift for any hiker! Moleskin protects feet from painful pressure points that can lead to blisters. Your friend or loved one will get use out of this gift!

Burt's Bees Lip Balm Stocking Stuffers

Lip balm makes a great stocking stuffer for those who love the outdoors. The outdoor air can lead to dry and chapped lips. This lip balm is 100% natural and uses clean ingredients to keep lips moisturized. This multipack comes in four flavors: vanilla bean, coconut and pear, strawberry, and beeswax. Give the gift of comfort with this stocking stuffer!

Various Hiking and Backpacking Stickers - Perfect for personalizing a water bottle, laptop, or other surface!

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Essential Gear for Any Hiker

This gift list shares ideas that any hiker will appreciate. Peruse the list below for products that are meant to make hiking easier, safer, and enjoyable for all.

Adventure Medical Kit

This medical kit is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy mountaineering, backpacking, and camping. It contains carefully selected first aid supplies that will help treat various illnesses and injuries that a hiker may encounter while adventuring. It is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to pack and carry. It is an essential must-have for any hiker or backpacker.

Mossy Oak Multitool

This stainless steel multitool has a self-locking design and comes in a durable nylon pouch. Its built-in tools will help the outdoor enthusiast to be prepared for almost any situation! The tools include: needle nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, magnetic hexagon sleeve, screwdriver, knife, scale, metal/wood file, serrated knife, bottle opener & slotted screwdriver, wood saw, leather punch, 8-in-1 bit set and more. Any hiker or backpacker would appreciate this gift!

Waterproof and Windproof Outdoor Lighter

This is an essential safety tool for hikers and backpackers. When the unexpected happens, it may be necessary to light a small fire. This lighter is waterproof and windproof, so wet, rainy whether will not impact its use. It has a rechargeable lithium battery that uses a USB port. No gas or butane is required, so it does not need to be refilled. It is portable and durable, and it makes for a great gift.

Insulated Water Bottle

Every hiker needs a reliable water bottle. This bottle keeps water cold for up to 48 hours. It is made of stainless steel and is leakproof. It comes with a handle, paracord, and a straw spout. It comes in various sizes and color options.

Atomic Bear Paracord Bracelet (2-pack)

This paracord bracelet is a must-have for any hiker or backpacker. It comes with a fire starter, emergency whistle, compass, and 10 feet of military grade paracord. It is adjustable to fit a man, woman, or child. This gift will be appreciated and bring peace of mind to any hiker or backpacker.

Trekology Collapsible Nordic Hiking Poles

This hiking pole set is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, making it both lightweight and strong. Its cork handle provides an excellent gripping surface, and they are ideal for keeping footing on rough or uneven terrain. The poles are adjustable and a good fit for all users.

Hiking Backpack with Hydration

This 20 liter Osprey backpack is lightweight and durable. It has an internal hydration sleeve with over-the-shoulder exit ports. It comes with a 2.5 liter Hydraulics LS Reservoir for hydration. It has a comfortable fit and a removable waistband that can help with weight distribution.

Frogg Toggs Rainwear

Every hiker needs to be prepared for rainy weather. There is not much worse than hiking along a trail while wet and cold. These Frogg Togg products are lightweight and waterproof. Your favorite hiker will appreciate having some tucked away in their pack!

Hiking Boots

Having a pair of hiking boots that fit your feet, are durable, breathable, and comfortable is really critical to having an enjoyable, successful hike. We rundown the highlights of four major hiking book brands here: A Review of Several Top Hiking Boot Brands

Darn Tough Hiking Socks

A good pair of hiking socks is just as important as a good pair of hiking boots! The Darn Tough Vermont socks are an excellent choice. They are both comfortable, offering cushioning in all the right places, and durable. They wick moisture to keep feet dry, and they come with a lifetime guarantee! Your favorite hiker will love this product!

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Gear for the Overnight Hiker

The overnight or multi-day hiker needs a few additional supplies to stay happy, safe, and comfortable. The list below will share several ideas for gifts that serve these purposes!

Backpacking Pillow

A backpacker needs and will appreciate having a lightweight pillow that is a comfortable place to rest his or her head after a long day of hiking! This pillow is lightweight and compact, but yet it inflates to a comfortable size when needed. It comes with a removable, washable cover and the pillow design works for both side and back sleepers. Your friend or loved one will truly appreciate this gift!

Foam Sleeping Pad

Another must-have comfort item for a backpacker is a sleeping pad. This foam sleeping pad has a hexagonal nesting pattern that provides plushness and comfort. It folds up for easy packing and it weighs less than 15 ounces. This item is sure to be appreciated by any backpacker.

A High-Quality Sleeping Bag

Every backpacker should have a sleeping bag that is designed for their needs. The Big Agnes bags are high-quality bags that are durable and lightweight. They are made from soft materials that provide excellent warmth and comfort. They come in a variety of styles and designs. As you think about the perfect gift for your backpacking loved one, consider the climate and terrain that he or she most often explores. Also, consider the length of trip that he or she tends to take. The Big Agnes store should have a sleeping bag that will meet his or her needs.

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A High-Quality Tent

Having a high-quality tent is another critical need of any backpacker. Like sleeping bags, tents come in a variety of sizes, styles, and weights. Big Agnes tents are known for providing comfort and space with minimal weight. Explore the site to find a tent that meets the needs of your hiker.

A High-Quality Backpacking Pack

A backpacking pack must be durable, lightweight, and large enough to hold all necessary gear. The Osprey Exos 58 Ultralight Backpack is a quality pack. It is efficiently designed to maximize storage space. It is also designed with comfort in mind, including padded straps and a waist strap to aid in weight distribution. It comes in various sizes and colors, so there is sure to be one that will meet the needs of your loved one.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Every serious backpacker needs dry bags. They are essential for keeping food and supplies dry no matter what conditions are encountered on the trail. This particular dry bag is a 30 liter size, is waterproof, and it will float if dropped in water. It also has a zippered front pocket, a waterproof phone case, and a shoulder-strap so it can be used as a daypack as well. It comes in a variety of colors, so you can be sure to find one that your favorite backpacker will love!

Wise Owl Camping Hammock

Some backpackers love camping in hammocks while on an adventure. This camping hammock is lightweight and portable. It comes in single-size or double-size. It is made of rip-resistant nylon. It can be set up quickly and at adjustable heights. It comes with a storage bag, straps, and carabiners. You can choose from a variety of color options as well!

Water Filtration Methods

Every backpacker needs access to clean, potable water. Water filtration systems are essential for safe hydration while adventuring. The following products offer different methods for obtaining clean, drinkable water.

Reliable Cooking Stove

A reliable stove is essential for cooking and boiling water. Lightweight, compact backpacking stoves that use gas canisters are popular for their convenience and efficiency. Your outdoor adventurer will appreciate this gift!

Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator

This satellite communicator is compact and lightweight. It allows two-way communication and interactive SOS around the globe. It has TracBack routing which will help a hiker navigate back to his or her campsite should they get lost. Hikers can share their location with loved ones back home at any time. This device also pairs with other Garmin devices. It has a 14 day battery life if kept in 10 minute tracking mode. A subscription is required for access to all services, but this is a gift that can offer peace of mind for any backpacker.

Solar Charger Power Bank

This portable charger can charge three devices at the same time. It is compatible with most smart devices. It is waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof, and it includes a compass carabiner so it can easily clip to a backpack, charging while your hiker explores the trail. This item makes for a great gift, allowing your loved one to charge needed devices, even while away from the comforts of home.

Fun Hiking Products

Perhaps you are just looking for a fun hiking-related gift for your friend or loved one. A gift that will bring a smile to their face as they open it. This gift list is for you!

Mountain Trees Adjustable Hiking Hat

This hat is stylish and comfortable and sure to bring a smile to any hiker's face. The mountain and pine trees are embroidered, and the hat comes in both black and navy options. It is great for daily use as well as use on the trail.

Hiking Hair Don't Care Baseball Cap

Your loved one will surely get a chuckle with this one. This baseball cap comes in a distressed black wash. It is cotton, lightweight, and perfect for any hiker who has experienced hiking hair!

LED Flashlight Beanie Hat

This fun gift fills two purposes -- it keeps the hiker warm and it provides hands-free light! The flashlight is USB-rechargeable and lasts for three to seven hours on one charge. The hat is soft and stylish. This gift can be a handy gift for the hiker who finds himself or herself out after dark!

I'd Rather Be Hiking Socks

These fun socks are unisex and one size fits most. They are comfortable and a fun gift for the avid hiker!

How To Survive A Freakin’ Bear Attack: And 127 Other Survival Hacks You'll Hopefully Never Need

This paperback book is fun, yet filled with information. It offers advice for how to face some extremely perilous and challenging situations in life! It includes information on various scenarios, as well as info on first aid and CPR, climbing trees, building rope bridges, and lighting a campfire using only a phone. The outdoor-lover in your life will enjoy this book!

100 Hikes of a Lifetime: The World's Ultimate Scenic Trails

Is your favorite hiker always dreaming of the next hiking, always planning the next adventure? This National Geographic book will be an inspirational gift. If offers information about amazing day hikes and multi-day hikes for scenic locations around the world. It is filled with both beautiful photographs from National Geographic as well as expert info from seasoned hikers.

Travel Sized Hiking Journal

This 6 inch x 9 inch hardcover journal and log book will be a cherished gift of your avid hiker. The journal includes prompts to help the hiker reflect on the journey, and it also includes a place to record information to help them document their adventure.

Bigfoot Multi-Tool Carabiner

This multi-tool is both fun and useful! It has tools such as: a ruler, a bottle opener, a cord cutter, a flathead and a Phillips head screwdriver, a butterfly wrench, a can-opener, and four hex wrench positions. Plus, it has a fun sasquatch design!

Portable Neck Fan

The hiker who is challenged by hot weather may appreciate this fun gift! This portable fan has many air outlets and three speeds to cool the overheated hiker down quickly. It is lightweight, hands-free, and quiet. It also comes in a variety of colors.

Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker

Does your favorite outdoor enthusiast love to listen to music or the game while out on an adventure? This portable mini Bluetooth speaker is perfect for listening to tunes while on the go. The battery provides up to five hours of playtime on a single charge. The sound is good, and the speaker is waterproof and dustproof. Perfect for the hiker who loves music!

Various Hiking and Backpacking Stickers - Perfect for personalizing a water bottle, laptop, or other surface!

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Gifts for the Hiking Foodie

Whether it is a short hike, an all-day hike, or a multi-day backpacking trip, hiking is an endurance activity that requires fuel. Here are some gift ideas for the hiker with a selective palate. You'll find snack options, meal options, and food prep gear.

Salted Caramel Energy Stroopwafels

These delicious salted caramel energy waffles are perfect for enduring energy while on the trail. They are easy to carry, and they provide a burst of energy when needed. The waffles are free from artificial sweeteners, colors, and preservatives. There are other flavor options available as well!

Clean Energy Smoothie Pouches

These hiking snacks are perfect for the health-conscious hiker. They are plant-based energy smoothies that come in an 8-pack with a variety of flavors (banana, strawberry, and blueberry). They are a convenient on-the-go snack that will give a boost of energy when needed!

Multi-Spice Shaker Container

For the multi-day hiker or backpacker, this can be a well-appreciated gift! This spice shaker container holds six different spices: garlic salt, black pepper, cayenne, curry, paprika, and salt. It will help the hiker add an extra burst of flavor to any hiking meal!

Mountain House Meals

Who says backpacking meals have to be boring?!? Surprise your loved one with a few fantastic meal options from Mountain House. Mountain House meals are freeze-dried, which helps to keep pack weight down, and they are filled with flavor. The hiker simply rips open the bag, adds boiling water, waits a few minutes, and then enjoys the meal. A few amazing options are: Chicken & Dumplings, Breakfast Skillet, Biscuits & Gravy, Fettuccini Alfredo with Chicken, and the Chicken Fajita Bowl.

Backpacker's Pantry Desserts

Don't stop with a tasty main course, though. Your favorite hiker can end a long day of hiking by enjoying a delicious dessert. Backpacker's Pantry has some fantastic options! Choose from decadent desserts like Creme Brulee or Dark Chocolate Cheesecake. They do have several great entree options to explore as well!

Stanley Adventure All-in-One Boil and Brew French Press

Does your favorite hiker crave a good cup of coffee in the morning? This gift is perfect for him or her! This all-in-one French press is tough, durable, and compact. The user simply boils water in the pot portion, adds coffee grounds, and then presses the plunger once ready. The coffee press keeps all coffee grounds at the bottom and out of the cup. Plus, there is a lifetime guarantee!

Collapsible Coffee Cup

Any hiking coffee-lover needs a coffee cup that can be easily packed or clipped to a hiking pack. This collapsible coffee cup does the trick! It holds 16 ounces and can be used for both hot and cold drinks. It collapses for easy storage and comes with a hook that allows it to be clipped to a pack.

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Gifts for the Hiking Pet Lover

Hiking with a pet can be a lot of fun for both the hiker and the pet! The hiker gets a chance to hike and explore with their furry family member; the dog gets a chance to explore a new area and burn off some energy. Win-win! Hiking with a canine companion can have a few extra challenges, though. The gift ideas below are items that will help to make the hiking experience more enjoyable, safer, and more fun for both the hiker and the pet!

Collapsible Bowls

Keeping pets hydrated while hiking is so important. These water and food bowls are collapsible and they come with carabiners. This is great because it means the hiker can easily clip them to a pack while hiking! Less hassle and they are readily accessible when the hiking buddy needs a drink. They come in various sizes and colors. They are sturdy, durable, and easy to clean.

Portable Pet Water Dispenser with Food Container

Some people prefer to keep their water supply separate from their pup's water supply, and this portable pet water and food dispenser is perfect for that situation. The large size holds 19 ounces of water and has an attached water bowl. The food container fits into the bowl section when not in use. This dispenser comes in a variety of colors. It also has a locking mechanism to prevent leakage a carbon filter to ensure fresh, clean water.

Hydration Pack for Dogs

For the hiker who likes to bring their furry friend on all-day hikes, a hydration pack may be a better option. This hydration pack is a saddle-bag style pack. It has two pockets for hydration bladders and it includes two 600 ml collapsible water bottles. It comes in two colors and various sizes.

Reflective and Adjustable Dog Harness

A harness is essential when walking a dog on public hiking trails, and this harness is comfortable and adjustable. It can help reduce dog pulling for the hiker and the reflective pieces can increase dog safety for the pup. It comes in a variety of sizes, colors, and some really fun patterns!

Pet Waste Bag Dispenser and Used Bag Holder

You might be thinking this is a crazy idea for a gift! However, you'd be surprised by just how appreciated this gift may be for the hiker who often hikes with his or her dog. Trailside potty breaks are necessary, and it is essential to be prepared. This product has a small pouch to hold a roll of pet waste bags. What most people don't consider, is that the hiker then has to do something with that waste bag...and trash cans are often few and far between! This product has a second bag that is odor-blocking, leakproof, and discreet. It can hold the used waste bag until a trash can is found. The product can easily clip to a leash or backpack.

Pet First Aid Kit

Every pet parent needs to be prepared for the unexpected, especially when far from home or far from a vet. This pet first aid kit will bring peace of mind to the hiking pet owner. It is vet-reviewed and endorsed, and it contains medical essentials that may be needed out on the trail. The kit casing is sturdy, durable, and reflective.

Paw Trail Wax

This wax protects a dog's paws against sharp rocks, uneven terrain, thorns, etc. It improves moisture and paw pad elasticity. It is also natural and lick-safe, so there is no need to worry.

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To Wrap Things Up (Pun Intended! 😂)

Finding the perfect gift for a friend or loved one can feel like you are going on a wild goose chase, always reaching for something that you can't quite see. It doesn't have to be that way, though! I hope this gift list has given you some ideas for surprising your loved one with a gift that he or she will love. I hope you are able to experience the joy of giving, and seeing the smile of delight on your loved one's face.

~Best wishes and happy gift giving! 🎁

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