11 Best Gifts for Hikers

Last Updated August 10, 2023
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Here you’ll find a list of the best gifts for hikers across all price ranges. From wallet and purse-friendly stocking stuffers to items with a wow price tag. So whether you’re buying a Christmas present, a birthday surprise, or just a little something to say I’m thinking about you to a loved one we will have a great hiking gift idea for you.

Best Gifts for Hikers

Best Hiking Gift Ideas

What makes the best gift for hikers? If you’re not a hiker yourself and have done a bit of research into buying the perfect hiking gift I’m sure you’re completely flummoxed by the wide range of weird and wonderful products available. If so, you’ll be glad you have found this article. We have done all the hard work for you. Any product you buy that is listed in our best hiking gift guide is guaranteed to be loved by anyone that is serious about hiking.

Swiss Army Knife

When I was young and went camping or hiking with my cub scouts mates having a Swiss Army Knife meant you were one of the cool kids. And although the Swiss Army Knife has been around for over a hundred years it still has that X-factor.

The fact it has stood the test of time also tells you that it is an extremely useful product to have with you. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of different Swiss Army Knives. I’ve not tried them all, but I’ve used more than my fair share, and I can 100% recommend the Swiss Army Knife Huntsman. We also have written a list of the best Swiss Army Knives if the Huntsman isn’t to your taste.

Compass

A compass makes a great present for hikers, and you also have several options to personalize a compass with some engraving.

Deciding to give a compass is a wonderful idea as you can buy a small cheap clip-on compass as a stocking stuffer all the way up to an expensive professional military compass. And if want some tips on the best compass to buy then check our guide.

Headlamp

Hikers have multiple options for seeing in the dark. You have lanterns, campfire, flashlights, and our recommended gift idea – a headlamp.

The one greatest plus point of a headlamp over all other light sources is the ability to see and still have both hands free for other tasks.

The Petzl e+LITE headlamp is an amazing option to give to a hiker. It is lightweight and in a price range that doesn’t bust the bank. But if you do wish to spend a higher amount then have a look at our best headlamps for hikers review.

Lantern

A good quality lantern has been part of an outdoorsman’s kit for over a hundred years. And with good reason. A lantern is perfect for the job it is designed to do. No piece of equipment would stand the test of time like that if it wasn’t a valuable asset to carry with you.

Thankfully advancements in technology now mean lanterns are lighter, more compact and more durable than ever before. And of course they run on batteries and some are even solar-powered and can charge your other electrical devices.

Clearly a lantern makes a wonderful hiking gift. And we have many great options in our best lantern buyer’s guide.

Heated Gloves

If you’re going to give heated gloves as a gift to your hiking friend then you can’t go cheap. These aren’t novelty items. They are used to protect one of the most vulnerable parts of the body when out in the cold.

But if you do have a loved one that enjoys a winter hike then this is a gift that will help you sleep a little better at night knowing you have made them safer on their adventure.

We have a list of our favorite heated gloves and highly recomend the Outdoor Research Lucent heated gloves.

Compact Binoculars

People don’t go hiking as a means of getting from A to B, they go to see the beauty our planet has to offer. And there is one way to get a better close up view of all this beauty – compact binoculars.

As with any top quality gift, compact binoculars don’t come cheap. We have done a buyer’s guide and mini reviews on all the best compact binoculars accross multiple price ranges. So if you don’t have deep pockets you can still buy a family member a great gift knowing you are getting value for money.

Hand Warmers

A great stocking stuffer for Christmas is a hand warmer for hikers. These little gadgets are awesome at what they do and are good to have handy if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Hand warmers are lightweight and add very little to a hikers load. So they will always be carried when there is a chance of cold weather. They can also be used for other useful tasks such as warming a sleeping bag or drying sock.

Being cheap and extremely useful makes hand warmers a perfect present. Read our round-up of all the best hand warmers in the many different styles or buy our recommended product from Zipper.

Portable Solar Panel

Bringing the modern world into the backcountry has made the lives of hikers all the more enjoyable. But it also means new ways have to be found to power the gadgets and gizmos people want to bring along with them, such as smartphones and camera equipment.

This is where a good quality solar charger comes in extremely handy. This is a fast moving industry, and tech becomes old very fast. So head over to our best solar panels for hikers review for all the latest information. A current favorite for hikers is the Big Blue solar panels.

Ferro Rod

Starting a life-saving fire without fuel is easy if you have a good quality ferrocerium rod. It’s why it makes sense to always have one of these great gadgets on your keychain.

There are many amazing options to choice from, and you can see what we recommend in our best Ferro rods review, but if you are in a hurry then you can’t go wrong with buying the Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL Ferro rod

Survival Multi Tool

A good quality multi tool makes an excellent present for hikers. The Leatherman Signal is a small multi-purpose tool that is geared towards the needs of an outdoorsman so would make the perfect gift.

Throughout this site you’ll find numerous articles and reviews on multi tools if you want to do some research – starting at our best multi tool guide. But if you don’t have time for that, then pick up the Leatherman Signal. This is a multi tool designed for survival, camping and hiking.

Windproof Lighter

Lighters aren’t just for smokers. If your looking to buy a unique hiking gift then a lighter might seem like a weird present if the recipient doesn’t smoke. But the ability to make a fire is essential if you’re lost in the backcountry.

Being able to boil water will save your life if you end up lost while out hiking. So think of a windproof lighter as a great stocking stuffer for you hiking friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Best Gifts for Hikers

Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section of our article on “Best Gifts for Hikers.” As outdoor enthusiasts ourselves, we understand the joy and fulfillment that comes with exploring nature’s wonders on foot. Whether you’re looking to surprise a seasoned trekker, a weekend warrior, or a nature-loving friend, finding the perfect gift that complements their adventurous spirit can be a rewarding experience.

In this section, we address common inquiries that often arise when selecting gifts for hikers. From essential gear for both day hikers and overnight adventurers to thoughtful and budget-friendly options, we’ve curated a comprehensive list of suggestions to make your gift-giving process seamless and delightful.

Safety is paramount in the great outdoors, so we’ve included recommendations for gifts that prioritize hiker’s well-being, as well as eco-friendly choices to align with their commitment to preserving nature. Additionally, we explore unique and tech-savvy gifts that cater to the needs of experienced hikers seeking innovative solutions to enhance their outdoor experiences.

Whether you’re a fellow hiker seeking to upgrade your own gear or a thoughtful friend searching for the perfect gift, our FAQs are here to guide you on your quest to find the ideal presents for the hikers in your life. Let’s dive in and discover the best gifts that will accompany them on every step of their journey, making their hikes more enjoyable, safer, and ultimately, unforgettable.

What are some essential gifts for hikers?

Hikers always appreciate practical and versatile gifts. Some essential gifts include high-quality hiking gear like durable backpacks, multi-tool sets, lightweight camping stoves, compact sleeping bags, and comfortable hiking shoes. Additionally, items like portable water filters, first aid kits, and GPS devices can be lifesavers on the trail.

What are some budget-friendly gift options for hikers?

If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of thoughtful gifts you can give to hikers. Consider items like reusable water bottles, trail snacks, hiking socks, bandanas, or trail guidebooks. These gifts show that you care about their hiking experience without breaking the bank.

What unique gifts can I give to an experienced hiker?

Experienced hikers often appreciate innovative and specialized gear. Consider gifting them advanced hiking gadgets such as solar-powered chargers, lightweight titanium cookware, custom-made hiking maps, or even a membership to a hikers’ club or trail preservation organization.

Are there any must-have items for overnight hikers?

For overnight hikers, certain gifts can significantly enhance their camping experience. Consider giving them quality camping tents, inflatable sleeping pads, portable camp chairs, camping hammocks, or compact campfire cookware. Personalized items like custom-engraved camping mugs can also add a special touch.

What safety-related gifts are suitable for hikers?

Safety is paramount for hikers, so gifting safety-oriented items is always thoughtful. Some great options include emergency whistles, fire starters, compact emergency shelters, headlamps, and topographic maps of the hiking area. A subscription to a wilderness survival course could also be a valuable gift for those seeking to expand their survival skills.

Should I consider the environmental impact when choosing gifts for hikers?

Absolutely! As outdoor enthusiasts, hikers generally care about the environment. Opt for eco-friendly gifts such as reusable utensil sets, biodegradable soap, collapsible silicone containers, or sustainable outdoor apparel made from recycled materials.

What are some suitable gifts for day hikers?

Day hikers will appreciate gifts that improve their day trips. Consider items like hydration packs, trail running shoes, wide-brimmed hats for sun protection, hiking poles, and camera gear to capture beautiful moments on the trail.

How can I choose the right size of hiking gear to gift?

When giving hiking gear like backpacks, clothing, or footwear, it’s essential to consider the recipient’s size and preferences. If you’re unsure, opt for items with adjustable features or gift cards to outdoor retailers, allowing them to choose the perfect size themselves.

Are there any tech gadgets suitable for hikers?

Yes, there are several tech gadgets that hikers will find useful. GPS devices, fitness trackers with built-in GPS, solar-powered chargers, and rugged waterproof cameras are just a few examples of tech gifts that can enhance their hiking experiences.

Can I gift experiences rather than physical items to hikers?

Definitely! Experiences like guided hiking tours, wilderness workshops, or a weekend getaway to a scenic location can create unforgettable memories for hikers. Consider their interests and choose an experience that aligns with their preferences.

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