18 Gifts for Hikers at Any Level
Updated: Feb. 29, 2024
Need a present for someone who loves the great outdoors? Here are some of our favorite gifts for hikers, no matter how tough the terrain.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
If you’re shopping for an outdoor lover, you’ve probably considered the basics like an old-school compass and other emergency outdoor gear. But if you’re looking for a gift for an adventurous trail-seeker or someone just starting out in the hiking world, your search might need to be a little more specific.
From a portable hammock to natural bug repellents, our roundup of gifts for hikers includes both practical and creative options to suit a hiker of any skill level. Below you’ll discover some of our best new finds, products we’ve tested and a few classics from our previous favorite lists.
Special Edition Hiking Shoes
Merrell’s Moab 3 are a staple among hiking shoes. Now, you can get them in a limited edition design! The Merrell x Unlikely Hikers collab is here—and it’s beautiful. This special release features the brand’s reliable waterproof membrane and famous design but with fresh pastel colors.
Other standout details include a speckled sole and an imprint from Unlikely Hikers on the tongue that reads: “My body took me here.” The collection is available in extended sizes and widths to be more inclusive. Pair them with these work socks for the ultimate comfortable combo. If you’re big on sustainability, you can also opt for the Moab 3 hiking shoes from the new Merrell Scrap Collection. Or, if you’d like yet another option, consider these extra-comfy Allbirds trail runner shoes.
Lightweight Excursion Backpack
This lightweight excursion backpack is one of Athleta’s best sellers, and tops our list of gifts for hikers. It’s made from a recycled nylon-polyester blend that is easy to clean and resists tearing. It isn’t bulky, so it’s perfect for hiking and trail running. Plus, it has several pockets to fit all your essential outdoor gear—including two water bottles on each side of the pack.
Utility Knife and Saw
The Stoke Pivot Knife & Saw offers a pocket knife and portable saw in one pocket-sized tool. The Pivot is button-operated, so it switches back and forth from saw to knife with ease. The compact tool helps cut small branches and clears paths while hiking in rough terrain. The blade can also be used as a flint-striker if you need to start a fire on an after-dark hike. Consider it one of those gifts for hikers that doubles as outdoor products for survival.
Convertible Hiking Pants
The Co-op Sahara convertible pants come in men and women’s sizes and are made with a recycled nylon-spandex blend that’s stretchy and extremely durable. Flat seam stitching prevents chafing on long hikes, and the pants aren’t bulky, so they can be packed away conveniently if you unzip mid trail.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about facing streams and rain in these gifts for hikers either—their durable water-repellent coating wicks away moisture, and the lightweight nylon blend dries quickly if the pants do get wet.
Lightweight Parka
Gifts for hikers they can use on or off the trail are always a smart pick. A micro-parka is perfect for chilly, breezy days or as an extra insulated layer in colder weather. The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket traps in heat and blocks wind while giving you ultimate mobility. Even better, this lightweight parka is made using mostly recycled materials. Trying to choose between Patagonia and North Face? See how the two outdoor gear brands stack up against each other.
Portable Hammock
This camping hammock is made from parachute nylon that’s tear-resistant, quick-drying and perfect for hiking along tree-lined water. It comes with two aluminum stakes, two iron carabiners and weighs less than two pounds—so you can carry it anywhere.
It also supports up to 772 pounds, so it’s strong enough to hold multiple people who want to relax and take in the views on a long trek. Looking for more gifts for hikers who enjoy a cozy spot to chill? Check out these hanging chairs for the ultimate way to lounge at home.
Mini Belt Bag
This Patagonia hip pack folds up into its own pocket when not in use and expands to carry the essentials. The mini belt bag is made from recycled ripstop nylon, so it’s lightweight but durable and tough. The main pocket has a key clip and smaller security pocket that also holds the bag when it’s folded down. The functional design is comfortable enough to wear around your waist or over your shoulder while hiking.
Headlamp for Night Hikes
The Petzl Actik Core is a top choice for outdoor adventurers and one of the best gifts for hikers who hit the trails at night. It has a single-button design for simplicity, and it’s lightweight construction makes it one of the best headlamps. Plus, it adapts its brightness according to distance, proximity and rapid movement. Best of all, red lighting preserves night vision for fire pit hangs or after-dark treks.
The Perfect Hiking Sock
The Hiker Micro Crew Socks are some of the most comfortable hiking socks out there. With quality construction and a thick cushioned sole, Darn Tough Socks are designed to hold up for serious hikers without tearing or causing blisters. Beyond durability, they’re breathable, comfortable, warm and keep your feet dry on the longest of trails.
Bite Relief Pen
Bite Away offers relief for bites and stings from mosquitoes, wasps and bees. The electronic treatment pen is chemical-free, so it’s also safe for expecting moms and children two and older. If you’re someone who hikes in warmer climates with mosquitoes or spends a lot of time outdoors with kids, this is an essential tool to keep in your pack. While Bite Away uses heat to treat bites, the Bug Bite Thing—another must-have bite-zapping tool—uses suction.
Reusable Food Bags
Stasher food storage bags are made with reusable, leak-proof silicone. They’re perfect for packing lunches and snacks for the trails while reducing trash and plastic use. You can also use them at home, in the fridge, freezer, microwave and dishwasher to pre-pack sandwiches, fruits, veggies and other munchies for snacks on the go.
Pocket Blanket
Take a load off on wet or dry ground with the Matador Pocket Blanket. It’s made of tear-proof material and has a waterproof coating to keep you (and a few others) dry on or off the trail. And if you’re someone who struggles getting things folded back up to fit into a bag, the easy-pack pattern helps you refold the pocket blanket so that it fits back into the attached storage pouch.
Body Wipes
Wipe off dirt and sweat after a long hike with Wilderness Wipes. They’re thick, infused with aloe vera and vitamin E and even compostable. Plus, they’re unscented and alcohol-free, so they shouldn’t irritate even the most sensitive skin. When you’re done wiping away your hard-work, the packet reseals for use on your next journey.
Outdoor Sun Cap
Shield yourself from harmful UV rays on year-round hikes (and float trips) with this Outdoor Research lightweight cap that offers UPF 50+ protection for your head and neck. The sun skirt is removable, so you can also wear it as a stand-alone cap.
You don’t have to worry about overheating because its mesh panels offer ventilation. The removable chin cord keeps it strapped to your head during windy hikes or boat rides. If you like this, the Tifosi sunglasses are another excellent option.
Lip Balm With SPF
Speaking of sun protection, most hikers remember to pack sunscreen for their face and body for long, sunny treks. But lip protection is often forgotten. Aquaphor lip balm with SPF 30 is essential for protecting your lips from harsh rays. It’s also excellent for severely dry and chapped lips from cold-weather hikes. When buying gifts for hikers, it’s a thoughtful and price-friendly add-on.
Water Bottle With Filter
Fill up anywhere with a 32-ounce Eddy CamelBak water bottle filtered by LifeStraw. The bottle is durable yet lightweight and easily stows away in your pack. The filtration vessel filters water twice for an extra-fresh taste. Plus, the LifeStraw filter helps remove harmful bacteria from water collected in nature. FYI, here’s how to clean your reusable water bottles at home.
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles function as an extra pair of limbs when tackling tough terrain. They help with balance, crossing water and ice, hiking along ridge lines and facing hills. Add this pair of Black Diamond poles to your list of gifts for hikers who frequently take on more challenging courses. They’re adjustable and ergonomic—and, best of all, affordable compared to other name-brand options.
Compact Monocular Telescope
See everything from bugs to birds to plant life up close while far away with this compact monocular. It’s water- and scratch-resistant and withstands impact on those rugged adventures. It’s also super portable and easy to carry throughout any sight-seeing trek. Even better, the monocular telescope is smartphone camera compatible, so it functions like a camera lens for your phone to capture what you see in greater detail.
Originally Published: February 06, 2023
