Practical Gifts for Hikers
- Melanie Adair
- Nov 19, 2022
- 5 min read
Christmas gifts for day hikers
Searching for that perfect gift for your outdoor adventure family and friends that they will actually use? Or maybe you have a friend who's just getting into hiking? Here's a list of hiking items, for all seasons, separating them into different price ranges to make sure there is something for everyone's budget.
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Table of Contents
Big Ticket Items (over $100)
Hiking gifts for all Budgets
Under $10
Emergency Blanket
Every hiker should have one of these in their bag. It is small and lightweight, doesn't take up much space, and can save your life when you need it.
Lip Sunscreen
Always wear sunscreen, especially on your lips regardless of the weather.
Moisturizing Lip Chap
Lips can get pretty dry and cracked in the winter. A hydrating lip balm can help keep them protected and you can always use this.
Hand Warmers
Everyone can use some hand/feet warmers, especially in the cooler weather. I always carry a pair with me just in case and they do not take up that much space.
Under $20
Moleskin
These are made to prevent blisters and to use if you have blisters. These are precut and can easily be used when on the trail.
Clif Bars
All hikers need snacks and most hikers will eat a ton of snacks each hike. Clif bars allow you to keep the bars in your bag and pull them out when you need them. They work great as emergency backup food.
Water Tablets
At some point on a hike, you may run out of water and need to refill from a water source. These are lightweight, come in a water-resistant package, and only take 30 minutes for 1 L of water to be drinkable.
Knife
A knife can be beneficial in any situation, especially an emergency one.
Bug Spray
Not all hikes are created equally and that also means the number of bugs you will encounter.
Tripod
A tripod with flexible legs and a remote will do wonders when you're hiking.
Stasher Bag
These stasher bags work great to keep all your snacks in without having to worry they will spill open. They can also be used to put hot liquids in.
Neck Gaiter
These work perfectly to keep your neck and face warm on those cold, chilly hikes
Gore-Tex Patches
These waterproof patches work on most materials if you get a rip in them. Simple peel off the back, place on the fabric, rub and that's all!
Under $30
First Aid
First aid is always required on every hike, regardless of the length. Get one that comes in a water-resistant bag.
Beanie/Toque
Works well for 3 of the 4 seasons. Buy one that has a fleece lining around the ears or is fleece lined. This will prevent the wind from coming in and keep your head a bit warmer.
Buff
This can be used as a headband, neck protector from the sun or cold, a sweat rag, and a lot of other versatile uses.
Wool Socks
You can never have enough hiking socks as I love wearing these for all occasions.
Under $50
Reusable Water Bottle
This reusable, collapsible water bottle is the perfect gift for any hiker. When you're done with it, you simply collapse it down to take up less space. It also weighs a lot less than plastic or metal water bottles.
Headlamp
This is a multipurpose item that can be used when hiking, camping, or even around the home.
Rain Cover
If the hiking bag does come with one, this rain cover packs down small and can be easily thrown into the hiking bag.
Battery Charger
Again, another multi-use item that can be used in everyday life. This one can last a few days while charging your phone, has multiple port adaptors and comes with a built-in flashlight.
Waterproof Case
This is great to carry any electronics in it or important items to protect your stuff from getting wet.
Arm Sleeves
These are great for people who burn easily as they protect your arms and the top of your hands.
Bear Spray
If you live in a bear country (or any wild and dangerous animals), this is a must!
Emergency Bivvy
Perfect for those who love to hike all year round as this works like a sleeping bag if you ever needed to stay overnight.
Electrolyte Gel
Something that can be used regardless of what activity you are doing and can also be kept in their hiking bag until needed.
Waterproof Compression Bag
These waterproof compression bags work well with bulky items to prevent them from getting wet and save space.
Under $100
Hydration Reservoir
A hydration reservoir works amazingly to keep you hydrated but an insulated one works even better, especially during those hot months.
Rain Jacket
This waterproof fain jacket is light to wear, light to carry, and can pack down quite small.
Waterproof Gaiters
These gaiters are an amazing piece to add to your hiking friend's collection if they do not have them. For 3 out of the 4 seasons, you will be wearing these. And they work amazingly in unpredictable weather.
Waterproof Gloves
These are the perfect addition to winter hiking, even fall, and spring hiking to keep your hands dry and warm.
Spikes
These are one of those items you didn't even know you needed until you have them. They make any icy condition safe enough to walk on. I have walked up trails that were covered in ice and didn't even budge.
Big Ticket Items (over $100)
Tiley Hat
Protect your whole head area with a Tiley Hat in warmer weather.
Day Pack
These are a bit expensive but are absolutely required to have an enjoyable hike. Look for one that has a hip belt, enough pockets to store everything, and is anywhere from 20-35L (so you can use it in all seasons).
Waterproof Pants
Unpredictable weather doesn't stand a chance when you carry these around. They also work well for the wind.
Down Jacket
This is one of my favorite hiking items I have purchased. This adds a ton of extra warmth without the bulk! And it is very easy to layer with other layers.
If you are still not sure what to get that friend or family member, gift cards are always a second favorite to any hiking or camping store!
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