It is almost that time of the year when many scour the internet in search of the perfect gift for their outdoorsy loved ones. Hiking’s popularity has experienced a remarkable surge in the past few years, breaking free from its former niche status in the realm of outdoor activities.
It has now firmly established itself as a mainstream recreational pursuit, cherished by individuals spanning all age groups and backgrounds. Hikers are a unique breed; they prefer muddy boots to polished shoes and mountain vistas to city skylines. So, finding the right gift for hikers can be daunting, especially on short notice.
Considerate gifts for hikers underscore your grasp of their outdoor needs and passions, so make sure the gift you pick out is something that will enhance their experience on the trail. We have assembled a Holiday Gift Guide that’s bound to make any hiker’s heart leap as high as a mountain peak.
Make sure to go all the way through to our surprise #1 Osprey Poco Plus.
This post includes affiliate links. It’s super important for us to be transparent with our Wanderers! If you click on one, we may receive a small, but wanderful commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for WANDERING with us!
7. ustTekFire LED Fuel-Free Lighter
Material: Synthetic
Product dimensions: 3 x 1.5 x 0.85 inches
Weight: 1.6 Ounces
Price: $35
After a long day on the hiking trail, the ability to effortlessly ignite a campfire is incredibly refreshing. The ustTekFire LED Fuel-Free Lighter, a lightweight and compact device, makes fire-starting a breeze and offers the convenience of a bright LED light.
Windproof, flameless, and electronic, the lighter eliminates the need for butane fuel or altitude adjustments. Plus, it includes a ParaTinder™ wrist lanyard that can be unraveled to about 3 feet of versatile paracord with an additional single tinder thread. For added convenience, the lighter comes with a USB cord, allowing for straightforward recharging from any USB port.
Pros
- It can withstand elements on the trail
- It is lightweight and compact
Cons
- The hinged lid gets in the way
6. Energizer LED Headlamp Pro360
Light source: LED
Brightness: 360 Lumen
Power: AAA batteries
Price: $25
The Energizer LED Headlamp Pro360 is a trusty light source for your loved one no matter where your adventures lead them. With a powerful output of 360 lumens on high mode, it can illuminate a beam up to 80 meters away. Alternatively, you can use the dimming feature to extend its run time.
This versatile headlamp also offers various light settings, including spot, flood, and red night vision, allowing you to tailor the lighting to your specific needs. You won’t have to worry about constantly changing batteries, as this battery-powered LED light comes with three included AAA alkaline batteries.
On high mode, it can run for up to 4 hours, delivering light that’s a remarkable 4 times brighter than standard LED technology. The Pro360 is designed for flexibility, thanks to its pivoting feature, which lets you direct the light precisely where you need it.
Plus, it’s built to withstand the elements with its water-resistant and impact-resistant construction, ensuring long-lasting durability. When it comes to reliable and bright lighting in any situation, you can always depend on Energizer.
Pros
- Has long-lasting battery
- It is waterproof
- Wide and comfortable headband
Cons
- Headlamp plastic not sturdy
5. Retrospec Drifter Plus Snowshoes
Material: Polypropylene
Frame material: Aluminum
Maximum weight: 200 Pounds
Price: $99.99
Winter presents a challenge for many hikers, with snowy trails making it difficult to hit the great outdoors. Among the sought-after items in outdoor stores during the fall and winter seasons are the Retrospec Drifter Plus Snowshoes.
Choosing snowshoes as a gift for hikers is like gifting them the key to enjoying the outdoors, even in the coldest of winters. The Retrospec Drifter Plus stands out as the benchmark of snowshoes, striking the perfect balance between technical prowess for long journeys and the convenience of lightweight design for short jaunts. These snowshoes are a breeze to put on and built to endure years of rugged use.
What sets the Retrospec Drifter Plus apart is its ease of strapping in, combined with remarkable rigidity and durability. With unparalleled traction, these snowshoes allow hikers to effortlessly glide over the snow, ensuring that winter trails are no match for their adventurous spirit.
Pros
- Has exceptional traction
- The bindings are easy to use
Cons
- Relatively low weight limit
4. Six Moon Designs WY’EAST DAYPACK
Material: Denier robic nylon
Dimensions: 14 x 7 x 18 inches
Item weight: 1.28 pounds
Price: $155
A dependable backpack is an essential companion for any hiking adventure. The Six Moon Designs Wy’East is the ideal companion for many hikers. The backpack offers a no-nonsense design, making it perfect for day trips to the mountains, daily use, or quick and lightweight overnight journeys.
This pack is all about versatility, with several detachable components that allow you to shed weight for those ultralight adventures. Crafted from robust and durable 210D fabric, it’s built to withstand the rigors of the trail.
The Wy’East backpack doesn’t just stop at durability; it’s also incredibly user-friendly. Its roomy, comfortable shoulder straps are well-equipped with elastic drop pockets, providing easy access to soft flasks, snacks, or your phone. The hip belt, although optional, adds an extra layer of comfort and stability when you’re hauling a fully loaded pack.
With thoughtfully-sized pockets, a removable foam sit pad for a touch of comfort during rest stops, daisy chains for securing ice axes, secure zip pockets to keep your essentials safe, and hydration options to keep you refreshed on the go, the Wy’East is a backpack that exceeds expectations. You’ll find yourself reaching for it more often than you’d ever imagined, making it an indispensable addition to your outdoor gear collection.
Pros
- It is very roomy
- Has easily accessible exterior pockets
- It is durable and waterproof
Cons
- Female reviewers reported some slight torso discomfort
3. Garmin inReach Mini 2
Screen size: 1.27 inches
Connectivity: USB, Bluetooth
Battery life: 336 hours
Price: $399.99
For all the concerned moms and dads out there, who want to ensure their kids’ safety while they venture into the great outdoors, we have the ultimate gift recommendation. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a game-changer for hikers, backpackers, or even rock climbers.
This compact wonder isn’t just a satellite communicator; it’s a lifeline to your loved ones. It offers a plethora of essential features, including two-way messaging, TrackBack routing, and a built-in SOS function. With the inReach Mini 2, you can relax knowing that your adventurous family member or friend is well-protected during their escapades.
Stay up-to-date with real-time weather information through the inReach Mini 2 or any compatible paired device. You can even request weather forecasts for their precise location or any waypoints along their expedition.
The inReach Mini 2 boasts an internal rechargeable lithium battery that delivers up to 14 days of usage in the default 10-minute tracking mode or an impressive 30 days with a 30-minute tracking interval. This gift isn’t merely a device; it’s the gift of peace of mind, both for you and your outdoor enthusiast.
Pros
- It is very reliable
- It is very light and compact
Cons
- It is not easy to use
2. Olympus TG-6 Black Underwater Camera
Lens type: Macro
Frame Rate: Up to 30 fps
Display resolution maximum: 1040000 Pixels
Price: $499.99
Outdoor enthusiasts are known for being tougher on their gadgets than the average person. Therefore, having a robust electronic device is essential as they navigate challenging terrains, enduring accidental drops, and weathering the elements.
Whether they’re hiking in the mountains, lounging on the beach, or adventuring in the snow, the Olympus TG-6 is the go-to choice for those who demand durability without compromising image quality.
The TG-6 is the pinnacle of rugged photography. It boasts the coveted Variable Macro System, enhanced underwater shooting modes, and expanded system versatility with the introduction of a new fisheye converter for circular fisheye photography. This camera has evolved to offer an even broader spectrum of creative possibilities, ensuring stunning images in any environment, no matter how demanding.
Pros
- Extremely sturdy
- It is waterproof
- Clear quality images
Cons
- Has no manual mode
1. Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier Backpack
Weight: 7 lbs. 14 oz.
Max. Weight (Child+Gear+Pack): 48 pounds
Sunshade: Yes
Price: $395
For those new parents, the Osprey Poco Plus is the perfect gift to rekindle their passion for the outdoors while sharing it with their bundle of joy. This remarkable carrier features a double halo harness with front-facing arm loops, simplifying the process of loading and securing their child.
The adult’s adjustable harness and Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt ensure a comfortable carrying experience, catering to parents of various heights. The carrier also comes equipped with practical features such as a removable drool pad, toy attachment loops, and a zippered lower compartment spacious enough to accommodate a diaper-changing kit.
Extra storage is available on both the main body and hip belts, ensuring that parents can carry all the essentials for their adventure. With a built-in sunshade, the baby will remain protected from harmful rays while they both enjoy the beauty of the trail. It’s time to get back to nature, and the Osprey Poco Plus makes it easier and more enjoyable than ever.
Pros
- It is a very high-quality build
- The sunshade is easy to deploy
- Has exceptional breathability
Cons
- The large grab handle is just behind the neck and can be irritating when looking up
Hikers are a special breed, and this holiday season is your chance to show your appreciation for their adventurous spirit. Whether they’re conquering mountains or exploring local trails, these gifts will make their outdoor escapades all the more enjoyable. So, here’s to hiking in style and the perfect gear for a trailblazing adventure!