The outdoor lifestyle is all about appreciating the stunning gifts of Mother Nature: mountains, rivers, beaches, canyons, forests and rocky cliffs. However, any seasoned outdoorsman (or woman) can tell you that you need more than just an appreciation for beauty to enjoy many outdoor hobbies — packing the right gear is critically important too. That’s good news if you’re seeking a gift for the outdoorsman or woman in your life, because it means you’ve got a whole lot of options! Whether you’re shopping for a weekend camper or for somebody who takes six months off to hike the Appalachian Trail, this guide will give you ten great gift ideas for those who are happiest when they’re outside.
- Portable Grill
Portable smoker grills have become a popular gift for anybody whose outdoor obsession overlaps with their culinary callings. Pellet grills are especially popular among the outdoors set, thanks to their ability to function as both grills and smokers, as well as their minimal level of clean-up. Many are set on wheels for easy transportation and/or are small enough to easily fit in a truck, SUV or hatchback. Don’t forget to throw in some grilling accessories like spatulas and tongs to make sure they’ve got their tools of the trade!
2. Multi-Tool
Nothing says “outdoors” like a high-quality multi-tool! These all-in-one tools combine the functions of a pocket knife, pliers, a screwdriver, scissors, tweezers and many other essential tools. Outdoor adventurers rely on their multi-tools to make their lives easier, and potentially even to get them out of a tight spot. Plus, a huge variety of multi-tools are now available, including some with feature sets aimed at specific activities like camping, fishing and firearms maintenance.
3. Outdoor Socks
Most outdoor sports have one thing in common: They require good socks! From moisture-wicking hiking socks to fleece socks for the coldest days of deer season, socks make an awesome gift for basically any outdoor enthusiast. Make sure to understand the different types of outdoor socks available before you buy, since there’s a significant difference between the various models, and don’t be afraid to ask what types they prefer if you need to.
4. GPS
While many of us have switched to Google Maps for our navigation needs, many outdoorspeople habitually venture far outside the realm of 4G and 5G service. True GPS systems make a great gift for these adventurous souls, with many models offering both smartphone connectivity and a stand-alone unit for areas without cell service. A quality GPS provides reassurance and secure guidance in the backcountry, and it can make a life-saving difference when it counts the most. Some even offer functions that can send location signals to rescuers in a worst-case scenario.
5. Camping Coffee Pot
There’s no reason the outdoors person you love should have to suffer through a cup of weak instant coffee while they’re on the trail. That’s why a camping coffee pot is a great gift for anybody who loves the wilderness! These coffee pots are made from fire-safe material that makes them safe to use over open flames, and they include built-in filters to hold any camper’s favorite ground coffee. They’ll thank you once when they get the gift, and again when they’re enjoying a fresh cup of coffee on a quiet morning in their campsite.
6. Power Bank
Today, even the most rugged outdoors folk often rely on electronic devices on their excursions, from GPS units to LED lanterns. To make sure they’ve always got power for their most important devices when they need it, consider a power bank as a gift. These large portable batteries can be charged ahead of a trip, and they can hold a charge for weeks or months at a time. Plug in a device via a standard USB-A or USB-C, and they’re on the way to a charge! A couple of high-quality backup charging cables can be a great add-on to complete the gift.
7. Clip-On Speaker
These clever mobile sound systems work just like normal Bluetooth speakers, with one difference: They feature built-in carabiner clips that let them attach effortlessly to a backpack, bike bag or pretty much anything else. The sound can be surprisingly robust, and many models are light enough for even the most weight-averse backpacker. Battery life should be a high priority, and look for an IP rating (such as IP67 or IP68) to ensure that the speaker can stand up to wet weather.
8. Water Bottle
No well-equipped outdoorsman ventures out without a way to stay hydrated. Consequently, a reusable water bottle makes a great gift! Glass, stainless steel and aluminum are all popular and durable options, and they also help keep water cold and refreshing for longer. If your outdoors-loving friend enjoys heading into the backcountry, consider a water bottle with a built-in filtration system.
9. Camp Chairs
Camp chairs are so versatile that you can never really have enough of them. They’re obviously great for camping, but they’re equally at home in a tailgate party, at a cookout or on the lawn at a concert. Thus, you can almost always bet that a high-quality camping chair will make a great gift for any outdoors lover. Some even include features like built-in cooler pouches and attachable shade canopies for luxurious comfort anywhere and any time.
