Holiday Gift Guide for Hikers: 22 Gifts to Inspire Their Next Adventure

Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned hiker or someone who’s just discovered the joy of hiking, finding the right gift can make a world of difference to their adventures. From high-tech gadgets to comfort essentials, this guide has everything a hiker could want for the holidays. Let’s dive in!

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1. Lightweight Backpack

A lightweight, durable backpack is a must for any hiker. When shopping around for a backpack, look for ones made with waterproof material, multiple compartments, adjustable straps and comfortable padding. These features help you prepare for different weather and scenarios that can happen while on the trails.

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2. Insulated Water Bottle

A good water bottle is indispensable and something you can’t go wrong with. Coming from fellow hikers, we have numerous water bottles and love it when we get more, especially insulated ones! Double-wall insulated bottles keep drinks hot or cold for hours, which is ideal for multi-season hiking.

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3. Trail Running Shoes

A good pair of sneakers that are made to provide support and comfort both on and off the trails is a good idea for hikers and runners. This is a great way to merge two hobbies and have a flexible shoe that allows them to go from walking down the city street to light trails without having to bring a second pair of shoes

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4. GPS Device Or Smartwatch

For navigating off the beaten path, a GPS device or GPS-capable smartwatch provides accuracy and peace of mind. Many smartwatches are multifunctional and can also let you answer calls, texts, track steps, have a built-in compass, track your trail route and monitor your heart rate.

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5. Trekking Poles

Hiking poles are an incredible gift for hikers. They serve multiple purposes and aid hikers along their adventures by providing stability on rugged terrain. Look for lightweight, adjustable poles, as they provide support on steep inclines and help reduce strain.

For more information about hiking poles, check out our article “Are Trekking Poles Worth Using? (Pros, Cons, Types, & Tips)“

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6. Lightweight Tent

A solid tent is good gift idea for hikers who enjoy overnight trips or camping. The ideal lightweight tent for hiking should be compact, easy to set up and provide adequate protection from the elements.

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7. Merino Wool Socks

A great stocking stuffer! Merino wool socks are breathable, moisture-wicking, and keep feet warm even when wet. Merino wool, sourced from Merino sheep, are natural fibres that are softer, finer and less itchy than traditional wool, making it ideal for hiking.

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8. Portable Power Bank

A portable power bank is a compact, rechargeable battery pack that lets you charge electronic devices on the go, which is invaluable for hikers, campers, and travellers who may be away from outlets for extended periods. For hikers, a power bank can mean the difference between a reliable GPS device, camera or smartphone and a drained battery.

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9. Camp Stove

Cooking on the trail is easier with a compact, reliable camp stove. Camp stoves allow you to prepare warm meals and beverages, making your outdoor experience much more comfortable, especially in cooler weather.

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10. Waterproof Hiking Boots

Waterproof hiking boots are beneficial for hikers tackling wet, muddy, or snow-covered trails. They’re designed with special waterproof materials and construction techniques to keep water out while maintaining comfort, breathability, and durability.

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11. Hiking Guide Book

A hiking guidebook is an invaluable resource for hikers, providing detailed information about trails, local geography, and tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the trail. Whether you’re a beginner looking for easy day hikes or an experienced hiker seeking more challenging routes, a good hiking guidebook can help you plan your trips, stay safe, and discover hidden gems.

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12. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential item for any hiking or outdoor adventure. It contains supplies and tools that can help address injuries or medical emergencies while you’re away from immediate access to professional healthcare. Having a well-stocked and well-organized first aid kit not only improves your loved one’s safety but also gives them peace of mind while exploring the outdoors.

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13. Weather-Resistant Jacket

A good jacket can make the difference between a miserable hike and a great one, especially in unpredictable weather. Weather-resistant jackets are lightweight, packable, and engineered to shield you from wind, light rain, and occasional snow while maintaining breathability. They’re perfect for layering, ensuring you stay comfortable and dry without overheating during outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, or camping.

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14. Compact Headlamp

A compact headlamp is an excellent holiday gift for hikers because it’s lightweight, versatile, and is a great safety tool. It provides hands-free lighting for nighttime adventures, early-morning starts, or emergencies on the trail.

Compact models are easy to pack, often rechargeable, and come with features like adjustable brightness and weather resistance, making them practical and affordable.

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15. Emergency Shelter

An emergency shelter is a thoughtful and potentially lifesaving holiday gift for your loved ones. It provides essential emergency protection from the elements during unexpected situations, ensuring safety and comfort in emergencies.

Lightweight and compact, it’s easy to carry in any pack, offering peace of mind without adding bulk. Its practicality makes it a gift that shows you truly care about their well-being on the trail.

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16. tick removal tool

A tick remover makes a thoughtful and practical holiday gift for hikers because it helps ensure safety and peace of mind on the trail. Lightweight and compact, it’s easy to carry in any first-aid kit, making it a reliable tool for quickly and safely removing ticks to reduce the risk of Lyme disease and other infections.

Although small, this essential item shows you care about a your loved ones health and well-being during their outdoor adventures. Plus, if they have dogs, this tool will also be useful to help remove ticks from their hiking companions!

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17. Foldable Sit Pad

A foldable sit pad provides a comfortable, portable solution for taking breaks on the trail. Lightweight and easy to pack, it offers a cushioned surface to sit on during rest stops, protecting from cold, wet, or rough terrain. Its foldable design ensures it takes up minimal space in a pack, making it a practical and thoughtful gift for hikers who value comfort and convenience on their adventures.

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18. Fire Starter

A fire starter ensures your loved ones can quickly and reliably start a fire in emergency situations or during cold, wet conditions. Compact and lightweight, it’s a handy piece of survival gear that offers peace of mind, allowing hikers to stay warm, cook food, or signal for help.

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19. Collapsible Cooking Set

For hikers who love to cook, a collapsible cooking set is an excellent holiday gift. It combines functionality with space-saving design and can easily fit into a backpack. With foldable pots, pans, and utensils, it offers convenience and versatility, allowing you to prepare a variety of meals while keeping your pack lightweight and organized.

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20. Hiking Apparel

Hiking apparel makes a thoughtful holiday gift for hikers because it combines practicality and comfort for outdoor adventures. High-quality, moisture-wicking clothing helps keep hikers dry and warm, while durable, weather-resistant layers protect against the elements.

Whether it’s a breathable shirt, insulating jacket, or durable socks, quality hiking apparel ensures a more enjoyable and comfortable experience on the trail, which your friends and family will be sure to appreciate!

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21. Compact Camera

Help your loved ones capture their favourite moments with a lightweight, high-quality camera that can withstand the wear and tear of tough trails and unpredictable weather.

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22. National Park Pass

For hikers who love exploring trails, a National Park Pass offers access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites. While there are parks that do not require an entrance fee, numerous of them will require a pass.