37 Best Gifts for Hikers (in 2024)

Hiking boots make the difference between a comfortable trek and a miserable or possibly dangerous hike. Boots should be waterproof yet breathable, have traction, and provide foot and ankle support. They should also be comfortable to wear and light since every ounce adds weight!

The Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex Hiking Boots have a lightweight yet durable design, along with cushioning and exceptional traction abilities. They come in models for men and women.

Hiking Daypack

A hiking backpack is the second-most important piece of hiking gear after boots. You want a pack that fits comfortably, is lightweight, and can hold everything you need. The Osprey Daylite Backpack hits all of those markers!

Travel Lemming editor Abigail included this pack in her Hiking Essentials Checklist, and for good reason. It features a reservoir compartment, a hip and chest strap to distribute the weight of the pack, and a mesh rear panel that breathes.

Backpacking Sleeping Bag

Camping gear looks very dissimilar when you’re car camping versus backpacking! See Abigail’s guide to Must-have Items for Backpacking if you or your gift recipient are new to backpacking. It’s also a good resource if you simply want to upgrade a few articles — and your sleeping bag should be a top priority.

The Marmot Trestles Elite compacts down to a small size and weighs between 2 lbs 11 oz to 3 lbs, based on the option selected. It keeps campers warm down to 20°F so it`s suitable for camping in at least three seasons. I appreciate that it comes in female and male variations. The female version has more insulation at the head and feet since females tend to feel colder.

🎒 Fond of Hiking? Don’t overlook Abigail’s guides on how to select a backpacking pack and this year’s top backpacking bags!

Hiking Poles

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Hydration Pack

Hydration packs are a convenient means to keep water readily available. This CamelBak Crux 3-Liter Water Reservoir holds much water, is leak-proof, and is simple to clean. It also comes with a lifetime guarantee. The CamelBak fits within the Osprey Daylite Backpack and several other daypacks.

Water Bottle

This item that Travel Lemming writers regularly advise travelers to pack is useful for both hiking and travel! The Grayl Geopress Purifier filters out pathogens, debris, and microplastics from any freshwater resource.

Dry Bags

Items that can break easily ought to be housed within Frelaxy Dry Bags in case of a rainfall while you`re walking along a trail. These bags are useful for paper goods like maps and toilet paper, and more importantly, expensive electronics like phones or cameras. These watertight containers are beneficial not just for hikes, but also for kayaking, paddleboarding, and numerous other outdoor locales.

Snowshoes

Snowshoeing is an effective form of physical activity and a great way to spend time outside in the winter season. MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes are durable, lightly weighted, and perfect for winter hiking trips. The model designed for women has less weight and the model for men comes in three different lengths for the best customized fit.

I am also quite fond of these snowshoes for children which leave charming, giant footprints trailing behind. My kids stomp around making animal noises and spend wonderful time in these snowshoes!

Tripod

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Highly framed group or solo photographs can be taken from beautiful viewpoints like mountain tops or during hikes. A portable tripod is used that folds down compactly and attaches easily to backpacks, weighing only a bit over 3 pounds. A cellphone mount is utilized with it, capturing quality photos solely with an iPhone.

Hiking Gift Ideas Under $25

Hiking Socks

Regular socks for exercise aren`t the most suitable choice for hiking long distances outdoors. The Darn Tough Merino Wool Socks are a much better option. Made from merino wool and moisture-wicking material, feet stay warm even when the socks get wet. Cushioning aids comfort on protracted trail walks.

I prefer the men’s socks as I typically wear a women’s size 10 shoe, but the women’s hiking socks represent an outstanding choice for individuals with smaller feet!

Lip Balm

Sun Bum Lip Balm SPF 30 is sans paraben, hypoallergenic, and cruelty-free. An SPF of 30 shields lips from sunburn, while aloe and Vitamin E keep them hydrated. This represents one of the top gifts for skiers, hikers, and anyone who loves the outdoors.

Reusable Food Storage Bags

Nothing tastes as satisfying as a plain old peanut butter and jelly sandwich atop a mountain just conquered! Keep your sandwich from getting soggy with these leakproof, easy-clean bags. They`re BPA-free and have no silicone or plastic, and they reduce plastic waste.

These Reusable Food Storage Bags come in sizes for snacks and sandwiches and are also practical on family excursions by vehicle.

Hand Warmers

These hand warmers are wonderfully soothing on winter hikes! Simply opening the package, shaking the warmer, and it will progressively heat up over the next 30 minutes. HotHands Hand Warmers can be worn on hikes, at chilly sporting events, or tucked into a sleeping bag.

Ornament

These rustically styled State Hiker Ornaments feature the outlined shape of a chosen state location, containing interior cutouts of one or more hikers within. They make a wonderful way to commemorate a trip involving hiking. This presents one of the more imaginative gifts for hikers, perfect for trail companions and scout leaders!

Funny Sticker

This vividly colored sign states, “Time outside makes me a little less murdery,” and I can genuinely relate! It’s an entertaining graphic to fix on a portable electronic or container. I’m certain the individuals around you will appreciate being cautioned.

Hiking Clothing Gifts

Down Jacket

The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket is a convenient choice for hikes that initiate chilly and warm up. The jacket is windproof and keeps the wearer warm when it’s damp (although, it’s also water-repellent). It folds right into an interior pocket with a carabiner clip, so it can be tucked away when it’s not needed.

The men’s insulated garment with a hood has all the same attributes, plus a hood for added warmth.

Rain Jacket

I always pack a rain jacket for every hike… and I`ve needed it more often than expected! This men`s Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket is waterproof yet breathable, making it perfect for hiking. I`ve personally tested the Columbia Arcadia II, the women`s version of this jacket, and highly recommend it.

Sun Hat

I have a variety of hiking hats in different designs, but this North Face Class V Brimmer Hat is my favorite for complete sun defense. The large brim maintains the sun off and a chin band keeps the hat on your head. It dries rapidly and also floats in case you lose it while paddleboarding or kayaking. This hat also appears on Travel Lemming’s “ Best Gifts for Campers” guide!

Beanie

It’s not unusual to bring along multiple headwear options when hiking outdoors! You may need a 100% Merino Wool Ridge Cuff Beanie in the early morning or at higher elevations, and a sun hat for warmer sections throughout the hike. This cuffed beanie is breathable yet maintains heat. It can even fit comfortably underneath a helmet, making it perfect for climbers, cyclists, and snow sports enthusiasts.

Moisture-Wicking T-Shirt

This shirt made for wearing in the sun has a protection rating over 50 and is moisture-wicking and quick-drying. It’s a great option for activities like hiking, running, swimming, and other water sports. My husband enjoys wearing his men’s sun protective shirt from BALEAF so much that he wears it around the house just because of how comfortable it is. It’s also available in a version for women.

Merino Wool Base Layer

Hikers layer so they can put on clothing as they get cold and remove clothing as they warm up. This men’s merchandise from REI Co-op is long-sleeved but provides ventilation. It works as a bottom layer for hiking, skiing, and on chilly days. The women’s version is also an excellent bottom layer with the same benefits.

Convertible Pants

Convertible hiking pants allow hikers to adapt to changing temperatures conveniently. Wear the pants fully when cold then unzip above the knees for more ventilation as the weather warms.

The women’s Columbia Saturday Trail II Convertible Pant is waterproof, stain-resistant, and comes in several color options. With a zippered pocket, you won`t lose items like keys. For men, the Silver Ridge Convertible Pant by Columbia offers similar features.

Hiking Safety Gifts

First Aid Kit

I don’t bother removing my first aid kit from my hiking daypack, except to take stock after I’ve used it! I just leave it in there for next time, as it truly is a hiking necessity.

The Ultralight/Watertight kit for adventures that includes bandages, medications, and other essentials is stored in a watertight bag to make sure supplies aren’t damaged.

SAM Splint

Keep a SAM splint with you, which could prove useful for immobilizing injuries though hoping it`s never needed. I learned of their value through wilderness first aid training, so now one accompanies every Girl Scout hike as a precaution.

If your young children are too young for mobile phones and tablets with cameras, obtain a camera designed for children so they are able to record their journey. It will keep them occupied, and they will possess some pleasant souvenirs at the conclusion!

Survival Kit

The Emergency Bag includes necessary items for survival in case you can`t return to your planned destination. The kit has a warming blanket, loud whistle, fire starter and waterproof tinder, a direction finder, tape, and additional survival tools. It`s stored in a watertight bag to protect the contents.

Garmin inReach Communicator

We go hiking to escape from it all, but the Garmin Location Tool and Satellite Communicator allows you to stay in contact in case of emergency.

You can send an SOS and have two-way communicating with a satellite subscription — an important feature if you like hiking far off the grid. You’ll also access to weather forecasts, topographical maps, and even geocaching.

Microspikes

I wish I`d had these on a recent icy hike I took. One person from our group slipped down the trail and collided with two others and a dog!

Avoid wipeouts with the Yaktrax MICROspikes Traction System. They slip over regular hiking footwear and help tackle icy circumstances. The tote bag and compact size mean you can throw them in your pack and pull them out just when needed.

Headlamp

A headlamp is essential for long hikes, as well as early and late starts. The Petzl, TIKKINA Outdoor Headlamp will aid in illuminating your hike while allowing both hands to be free for maneuvering. Weighing only 0.2 pounds, it offers three choices for white light levels.

Hiking Gift Ideas For Families

Baby Backpack

A quality baby backpack which can last for years. The author`s pack stood up to carrying four kids over ten years! Look for packs containing a belt, as it transfers weight to the hips rather than the back. You’ll also want space for water bottles and other hiking essentials. Lastly, opt for a pack that can be easily put on and taken off alone if you plan to take the kids by yourself.

The Deuter Kid Comfort Child Carrier has a cushioned hip strap, a meshed rear for airflow, and an adjustable back for improved fitting. I appreciate that the strap pockets allow you to access items without necessitating the removal of the whole pack.

Front Baby Carrier

The Tula Explore Baby Carrier is a good option for infants too small for a youngster transporter. The entrance alteration gives neck backing for infants requiring to face their guardians. The padded midriff band assists in dispersing weight, and padded arm straps give included consolation. The Tula changes to three positions and can hold youngsters up to 45 pounds.

Nature Journal

A Journal for Nature Observation for Kids can help them focus more closely on what they see during a hike. It can also entertain and perhaps educate them. They’ll practice writing, learn about ecology, and try various scientific practices while observing the world around them.

Waterproof Sandals

Children hiking near streams or lakes are going to get wet. It’s just a reality! Get them some water shoes rather than trying to fight it.

Original Kids Tevas will cling firmly to their feet and shield them from rocks and sticks in the water. They’re worth the higher cost compared to cheaper brands, as they’ll have more longevity. You’ll get value for money by handing them down if you have multiple children.

Microfiber Towel

One of the most practical items you can bring when traveling with kids is a towel. You can use it for aquatic activities, lay it out for a picnic, or toss it in your trunk to hold muddy shoes after a hike. The PackTowl Personal Towel is lightweight and folds to a small size, drying quickly.

Bug Catching Kit

The Adventure Kidz Outdoor Bug Exploration Kit includes binoculars, a bug net, a magnifying lens, and bug containers. However, you don`t need to bring everything along on a hike! Choose one or two items to carry to examine bugs and other wild creatures on the trail.

Gift Cards For Hikers

AllTrails Pro Subscription

AllTrails is among the best travel programs. It will help you find hikes everywhere. The program informs customers of trails’ elevation gain, distance, conditions, and additional helpful info. You can also filter by length, difficulty, popularity, and even natural features like waterfalls and caves.

A AllTrails+ Membership enables users to save maps — an important feature when cellular service may not be available. Additionally, the Lifeline service allows trusted contacts to track users when hiking.

National Parks Pass

Some of the nation’s finest routes (similar to these routes in Rocky Mountain National Park) can be found within national parks! The America The Beautiful Access works at all the country`s national parks and over 2,000 historic sites and other federal lands.

REI Gift Card

The REI retail store carries numerous high-quality clothing items, hiking gear, and other gifts suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.A gift option such as an REI Gift Card allows hikers to select the gear most essential to their needs.It also permits them to indulge in an item they may not have purchased independently!

FAQs About Hiking Gifts

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We will not spend much time on which bag you should acquire here, but obtaining the right one is an important purchase that needs to be correctly made, so inspect our thorough guide to the best backpacks for traveling throughout Europe.