You’re looking for gifts for an outdoor lover/ hiker. We can be an odd bunch which may make you think, “what gift should I get a hiker”. Let me tell you, we are easier to buy than you think. I will review some gifts your hiker friends and family may like.
New Bottle / Mug
Every hiker would happily have a new bottle. One specific type of bottle is one with a decent built-in water filter. We often run out of water on a hike, but you don’t just want to drink straight out of a stream, however clean it seems. Animals weeing upstream, or even a dead animal up there, you don’t want to be straight drinking that. Buying a bottle that has a filter would be handy and helpful in this situation.
Hikers also love coffee and tea, so having a decent mug that is sturdy to carry is ideal. This would also be a great gift. Mainly looking at the metal mugs as they won’t smash in a bag. It could also be good to get one with a carabiner as the handle or something attached to the handle so that it can be strapped on the outside of their bag. As I call them, you can never go wrong with a new camping mug (as I call them).
Carabiners
Now, I know what you are thinking… I’m looking for hikers, not climbers; why would they want a carabiner? First of all, this is an excellent affordable present to buy. Ideally, climbing grade just in case you’re a climber. The idea behind this is not for climbing. Carabiners are amazing for clipping things to someone’s pack to attach items you want easy access to. I use them often; I just got a cheap pack of 10 on amazon.
My final point is carabiners are cool. Your mate will appreciate them even if they have no use for them (yet). Again, I recommend getting ones that are suitable for climbing. A little more expensive, but if your mate does get into climbing, hell already has some if needed.
Camping/ Portable Stove
Does the person you’re buying for have a stove? If not, this is the perfect gift. Every hiker would love to be able to make a coffee or cook some food while out. It can add to the day. To do this, you need a stove. Camping stoves can be relatively cheap, depending on what you buy. They can also be a bit pricey. Just remember you’ll need gas as well. I have written a whole post about portable stoves and the best ones to buy.
New Backpack/ Rucksack
You’ll have to know the person well to buy this gift. They may already have all the bags they need. Or they may have a brand preference. Once you find out there, a new backpack/ rucksack may be perfect. If they don’t have a choice for the brand, they may need a specific size for hiking or camping, so make sure to find that out too.
Now, you have all the info if they need a perfect bag. This would be a great gift. I have even written a post about the best hiking bags. So use that to help you choose. There are many to choose from, so hopefully, that post will help you find the best one.
A Contribution
I hear what you are saying… a contribution to what? Most hikers/mountaineers will have something in mind they want to achieve or buy. Some are more expensive than others. Your hiker friend is most likely saving for some challenge (or a bit of gear) that you may not know about—contributing to this. Whether it’s a new pair of winter boots or an expedition to Kilimanjaro, your friend or partner will probably appreciate this one more than anything.
This also means you can guarantee they will get the gifts they want. There is no guessing what to get them or researching suitable products. Now, I know a lot of people are against giving money. However, as someone trying to save for an expedition, it will be greatly appreciated and never forgotten.
