Best Camping Gifts of 2024 (29 Ideas They’ll Actually Want)

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πŸ‘‰ Jump to:Recommended Camping Items | Priced Under $25 | Unique | Cookware | Clothing | FAQ

I’m a lifelong camper who’s curated this epic camping gifts guide after personally testing numerous outdoor gear items!

This roundup addresses camping essentials for both car camping and backpacking, excellent for new campers and those needing a few upgrades. I also share affordable camping gifts, cookware, clothing, and even suggestions to help campers make memories β€” rather than add to their collection of stuff.

Notification: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!

9 Essential Camping Gifts

Backpack

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Travel Lemming editor Abigail undertook a 5-day backpacking trip to test this year’s top-rated backpacking backpacks under real conditions. The Osprey Eja / Exos 48 received her vote as the overall best pack.

The backpack is lightweight, comfortable, and made with recycled materials. Osprey also has a generous guarantee and will repair damages to the pack at any time after purchase. Read Abigail’s detailed review for more information.

Sleeping Bag

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Sleeping bags shaped like mummies serve a purpose, but this rectangular sleeping bag is for those who prefer extra legroom.

The camping sleeping bag referred to as the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag possesses a thermal comfort rating of 20Β°F. Side zippers on the bag allows you to regulate the level of breathability. It boasts a hood to retain warmth and stop your pillow from falling out. An interior compartment permits you to effortlessly retrieve keys, a cellular telephone, or a little flashlight during the night.

πŸ“š Related Reading: Prefer a more portable sleeping apparatus? See Abigail’s guide on necessary articles for trekking for additional gear suggestions!

Camping Pad

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I endured a soaking camping trip last summer, complete with a terrible tent that leaked on the ground. Camping mats saved our group by keeping our sleeping bags dry and campers warm.

The sleeping pad by NEMO has a low weight and is designed for backpacking – though it can also be utilized for car camping. The pad includes a pump sack for simple inflation following a lengthy day on the trail.

Tent

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A decent tent can create or ruin your camping trip! The Kelty Wireless 6 solves several issues. It’s easy to assemble and has a full rain cover to keep you dry and cozy. There are also two storage cabinets and two doors, ensuring that nobody has to climb over another to reach the bathroom in the middle of the night.

Hammock

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Sleeping under the stars with a hammock outside is truly relaxing after an adventurous hike through nature. The Kootek Camping Hammock allows one to easily spend the night in the fresh outdoors courtesy of its included carrying case and all needed attachment pieces.

Camp Chair

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Camping is fun, but let’s face it β€” it can be tough on the body! A comfy chair where you can relax after a hike or day outside is definitely a bonus.

The REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair is optimal for both automobile campers and backpackers. It weighs just one pound, has four legs providing steadiness, and grants reliable backing given its resilient materials.

Leatherman Multitool

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There’s a valid reason a pocket knife is incorporated into the list of 10 outdoor essentials! You can utilize it to create kindling, get food ready, mend gear, or as a first aid tool.

The Leatherman Wave Plus Multitool includes several cutting implements and sawing tools suitable for such tasks. It also provides pliers, scissors, various screwdriver bits, and devices for opening beverage containers. A protective sheath is included to carry the Leatherman securely. Its one-handed operability allows for quick repairs even in restricted spaces.

πŸ‘‰ Don’t Miss: Hiking Essentials Checklist (26 Things to Pack on a Hike)

Solar Phone Charger

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This small device can ensure you don’t lose power even when you are away from standard power sources.

Though most aim to disconnect from our electronic devices when camping, there can be causes to keep them powered. Pictures may be wanted, time told, or a signal required in case of emergency.

The large solar energy charged battery isn’t considerably bulkier than a phone and can charge up to pair of devices. It’s water-resistant, drop-resistant, and dirt-proof so it withstands well to the demands of camping!

Satellite Communicator

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Garmin offers reputable satellite communication devices, providing backcountry hikers a means to stay in touch even in remote areas.

Backpackers wishing to communicate when outside of network coverage can utilize a satellite communicator. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator is diminutive and lightweight at merely 3.5 ounces. It enables two-way messages and tracking in addition to SOS abilities should a hiker encounter trouble.

7 Camping Gift Ideas Under $25

Headlight

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This rechargeable device allows you to illuminate your campsite after dark while keeping your hands free.

The brightly lit Rechargeable Headlight is the headlamp I use to see my way around camp after dark. It keeps my hands free and has several modes, including white and red lights, a flashing mode, and a steady light mode. A motion sensor allows users to wave their hands to turn it on instead of fumbling for the switch.

Personal Water Filter

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The portable water filtering device known as the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter provides a straightforward and trustworthy solution to guaranteeing potable liquid in the wilderness. This device allows purification of water taken from any stream or lake to keep hikers hydrated on the trail. It`s lightweight and long-lasting, thus it will endure for many years with correct cleaning and maintenance.

Camp Soap

a bottle with a picture of a man on it

Sea to Summit Wilderness Wash Soap is an advantageous gift for keeping dishes, clothing, and individuals clean during outdoor adventures. The extremely concentrated formula means a small container will last through many trips into nature. It’s also biodegradable and aids in protecting the environment.

Weatherproof Matches

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πŸ“ Google Maps online location tool | Site homepage | πŸ‘‰ Discover Nearby Lodging on a Travel Reviews Website

Fire Starters

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Fire starters can offer a small bonus of burn time to help kindling and campfire logs ignite. And there`s no need for them to lack purpose or aesthetic appeal!

Natural fire starters are handcrafted with slow-burning wax. Extra details like dried pinecones, moss, acorns, and other forest pieces also burn and make each fire starter one-of-a-kind. Even the wrappings and container the gift arrives in can be contributed to the bonfire!

Roasting Forks

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Using cooking sticks makes preparing meals over an open fire much simpler. It eliminates searching for the perfect twig, which is banned in some areas.

Ezire Telescoping Roasting Sticks can be extended, making it possible to stand at a safe distance from the heat of campfire flames. They feature a wood handle and are excellent for cooking marshmallows, hotdogs, and other foods that can be skewered over an open fire. Additionally, the roasting forks are dishwasher safe, allowing easy cleaning between trips to the campsite.

Outdoor Rope Lights

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Outdoor lights somehow make an area more cheerful! They also serve as a practical method to illuminate your campsite.

The Power Practical Lumitube ropeway beam is a five-foot long strip that can run on batteries for expedition. The strip comes with fasteners for hanging and a utility loop. The storage bag can also double as a lantern when containing the illuminated strip.

3 Unique Camping Gifts

America the Beautiful Pass

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I’ve obtained national parks passes repeatedly over the years and have never regretted it! The America the Beautiful Pass works at all US national parks, plus over 2,000 national monuments, historic sites, trails, and other federal lands.

REI Gift Card

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REI offers many alternatives for camping equipment, clothes, and other supplies! A REI Gift Card is helpful if you’re uncertain what your friend or loved one desires. It’s also an option if you live far away and prefer not to worry about shipping.

AllTrails Membership

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I love AllTrails because it helps me find hikes wherever I happen to be. I can narrow hikes down by distance, elevation gain, and by attractions like waterfalls, wildflowers, and hot springs. Users can also filter by activities like day hiking, backpacking, cycling, and paddle sports.

A AllTrails+ Membership allows members to download maps to follow even when they don’t have cell service. It also provides notifications about turn-offs while hiking, further preventing one from getting lost. Plus, the Lifeline service lets friends and family track hikers when on the trail.

6 Cookware Camping Gifts

Campfire Coffee Maker

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Let’s be clear β€” roughing it in the backcountry doesn’t mean giving up a decent cup of coffee in the morning. We are not uncivilized.

The Stanley Adventure All-In-One Boil + Brew French Press is a lasting stainless steel French press that will withstand the test of time. It is easily cleaned and does not allow grounds into your coffee. It also serves as a cup to heat liquids, soup, and other fluids.

Camp Stove

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My family has been cooking on Coleman propane stoves since I was little! They withstand long-time use, ignite reliably, and cook food evenly.

The Coleman 2-Burner Propane Camping Stove is best for automobile camping. It’s too heavy and cumbersome for a backpacking trip. But it’s a marvelous present for new campers or a family who loves the great outdoors.

πŸ”₯ Backpacking Camp Stove: Choose the Jetboil Flash Cooking System if your outdoorsy loved one would like a lightweight, compact stove!

Camp Dishes

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Enameled camp cookware can withstand campfire or portable stove heat as well as the bumps and bruises of outdoor food preparation. This tableware should last for years.

The Set of eating and cooking utensils from Coleman contains plates, cups, bowls, and cutlery items for four individuals. Moreover, this assortment is dishwasher safe for those occasions when things are not entirely cleaned up at the campsite.

Portable Cocktail Kit

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A portable cocktail package is one of those supplies that’s not essentially necessary – but it does make camping notably enjoyable!

The SKY FISH 13-Piece Bartender Kit incorporates all the tools required for blending up a post-hike appetizer. This set features a shaker, a jigger for measuring, a strainer, a mixing spoon, and also a corkscrew. Additionally, it comes with a cooler for safeguarding the drinks being brought along.

Dutch Oven

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While certainly a hefty item, campers who won`t be transporting the cast iron pot too far to their campsite will appreciate having it. They can simply place it right in the campfire and cover it with hot embers to allow for evenly cooked meals. And with it, they can prepare everything from breakfast casseroles and one pot dinners to fruity crisps and cinnamon swirls.

The cast iron camp Dutch oven by Lodge is an affordable, pre-seasoned pan. The cast iron lid on this Dutch oven can even double as a griddle!

Collapsible Sink

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Doing dishes is one of the most inconvenient parts of camping! It helps to have an accommodating sink that doesn’t require much space. The SOL 16 Liter Flat Pack Collapsible Sink is an excellent solution, featuring plenty of room for pots and pans. Its carrying handle increases its convenience.

4 Clothing Camping Gifts

Rain Jacket

a green and white checkered shirt and green pants

I’ve endured many damp camping excursions, and there is no way I’d want to partake without a quality rain covering. The Marmot Women’s PreCip Jacket is a lightweight rain shell designed for hiking and camping. It`s also accessible in a gentleman`s form.

Both versions have underarm vents and breathable fabric. They also have roll-up hoods and fastenings to keep water out of all openings. Plus, they compact down very small, making them easy to carry!

Wool Socks

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Nothing can derail a hiking or backpacking trip more so than blisters, and quality socks prove vital! Campers and hikers can always utilize additional socks and sometimes overlook buying them.

The Classic Hike Light Cushion Merino Blend Sock, which is designed to wick moisture and allow breathability, helps to keep feet dry. Since the crew length ensures the socks are taller than any hiking boots, they will aid in preventing blisters and shielding the feet from brush and sticks during hikes.

Sun Hat

a hat that is on top of a hat

Try an Oaxaca food tour, one of the preferred tour possibilities in the state. With so much incredible cuisine and local, traditional tastes, learning how to prepare prominent Oaxaca dishes is one of the most enjoyable activities to participate in within the state.

You don’t want to forget headwear when hiking on most days of the year. The North Face Class V Twist and Sun Brimmer Hat is my choice for a hiking hat because it offers ample coverage. It also has an adjustable chin strap to keep it secured.

Beanie

a black hat sitting on top of a white hat

The loop you`ve just finished returns you to Badwater Road. Continue south until you reach the turnoff for Natural Bridge, which is fairly clearly marked.

The 100% Merino Wool Ridge Cuff Beanie is a superb solution. It’s thin enough to be comfy while you rest but secures in heat. It also comes in a variety of colors, just for fun!

🎁 Looking for Additional Gift Ideas? Check out our gift guides for people who enjoy outdoor activities like men and for people who enjoy outdoor activities like women! Or check out our gift ideas for skiers,ideas for snowboarders, and for hikers.

FAQs About Gifts for Camping

What are some good camping gifts under $25?

There is a lifetime of activities between Tucson and the Grand Canyon. As you travel north, you can explore the state’s most beloved towns like Sedona and Flagstaff. And if the big city scene suits you, take some time to explore Phoenix. Vastly different landscapes exist between these places, each with its own unique appeal. From Southern to Northern Arizona, you’ll have plenty to see and do.

What are some unique camping gifts?

Some unique gifts for campers include an access pass for all US national parks, which allows entrance to all such locations, and a premium subscription to AllTrails. This allows hikers to download maps and navigate safely, even without cellular reception.

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Hopefully, this camping gifts guide has provided some ideas for those close to you! See our lists of the top travel presents or road trip gift suggestions for additional present options. Happy shopping!

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

Join us on our journey!

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