Gifts for Hikers and Campers Who Already Own a Good Pack
By the Gift DeskUpdated 20 hand-picked ideas
The ideas at a glance
Anyone who hikes regularly has already bought the big things. They have boots that finally stopped giving them blisters, a pack they’ve adjusted a dozen times and a tent they know how to pitch in the dark. What they usually don’t have are the small upgrades that make a long day more comfortable, the camp luxuries they talk themselves out of, and the safety gear they keep meaning to get around to.
That’s where this guide focuses. We start with day-hike upgrades, then cover comforts for car camping, a short kit for the hiker ready to try a first overnight, and safety gear worth putting under the tree. Near the end there’s a plain explanation of which gear to leave alone, followed by a handful of small, cheap trailhead extras.
Shopping for someone whose time outdoors has a particular focus? Try gifts for bird watchers, gifts for anglers or gifts for stargazers.
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A few things to know before you buy
Find out whether they mostly day hike, car camp or backpack. The right gift for each is different, and backpackers care about every ounce.
Don’t buy boots, packs, tents or sleeping bags as a surprise. Fit and personal preference matter too much; fund them instead.
Safety gear is always welcome. A headlamp or first aid kit is useful to every hiker, whatever their level.
Think about where they go. Desert hikers, mountain hikers and winter hikers have very different needs.
Need more ideas? Tell our gift finder where they like to hike and what they already carry.
Hiker and camper gift questions
What’s a good gift for someone who loves hiking?
Merino hiking socks, trekking poles, a rechargeable headlamp and a lightweight first aid kit are all useful to almost every hiker. For bigger budgets, a satellite messenger gives them a way to call for help beyond cell coverage.
What do you buy a camper who has everything?
Comfort upgrades they wouldn’t buy themselves: a camp espresso maker, a hammock, a campfire grill grate or a better pillow. A national parks scratch-off poster is a nice way to celebrate the trips they’ve already taken.
What’s a good cheap gift for a hiker?
A foam sit pad, waterproof playing cards, reusable hand warmers, traction cleats or a dog-friendly water bottle all come in around $30 or less.
Is a satellite messenger a good gift?
For people who hike alone or go far from cell service, yes. Keep in mind that most need a paid subscription to work, so check the plan options and consider covering the first months.
