25 Gifts For Outdoor Lovers: Functional & Thoughtful

Teton Sports Scout - Backpack

This is a great gift for all outdoor lovers. If they already own like 5 hiking backpacks, they will be excited to try out a new one. And if they don’t own a proper hiking backpack, then they will be ecstatic to finally have an appropriate piece of gear.

There are hundreds of great hiking backpacks out there. The one featured here is the Teton Sports Scout – a huge hiking backpack with a miniature price tag. It’s a great buy for people who go on adventures that last for several days. Especially if they carry a lot of gear.

There’s also the Teton Sports Explorer, which has a larger capacity and costs $5 more.

If you can afford to spend north of $100, definitely look into getting your friend an Osprey backpack.

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CamelBak Chute Water Bottle

A good water bottle is a necessity for all outdoor lovers. And it’s that one thing that they will use for years and just forget to replace. So, it makes a really nice gift.

The CamelBak Chute is one of the best water bottle for the outdoors, and it would make an amazing gift. CamelBak is a brand that is known for their high-quality outdoor gear, and I’m sure your friend has heard of them. If you really want to make them happy, this water bottle is a great choice.

The Chute bottles are available in several different versions, but here you see the CamelBak MAG – a BPS free water bottle with a magnetic cap that can never be lost.

If you want to read more about this bottle and see the other versions you can buy, check out our detailed review: CamelBak Chute Review. Or this post on Klean Kanteen vs Hydro Flask.

Hiking Boots/Trail Runners/Outdoor Sandals

I don’t know what season it is while you’re reading this, so I have suggestions for all of them. But the general idea is hiking-friendly footwear.

Your outdoor-loving friends know that you can’t go out into the wild wearing just anything on your feet. I mean, you can, but you’re more likely to wind up in your hospital if you wear your Converse sneakers on difficult hiking trail.

Hiking boots are the most appropriate choice for winter. The best ones are breathable, waterproof and offer tonnes of traction and grip.

Trail runners are great for transitional seasons – they are lighter and aren’t as warm as boots. And sandals are the best option for summer, duh.

The trail runners featured here are a very affordable (men’s) option by New Balance.

You can find more great hiking shoes for both men and women in our related reviews.

SEE ALSO:

Hiking Boots Vs. Trail Runners – if you don’t know which to choose

Keen Vs. Merrell (High-quality hiking boots)

Keens Vs. Tevas (Sandals for women)

Paradox Men's Waterproof Breathable Rain Jacket

A packable rain jacket is a great gift for any hiker. Especially if you know that they need a new one, or don’t even have one.

But you can’t get just any jacket. It has to be waterproof so that it actually performs well in wet weather. And it has to be lightweight and packable, so that it can fit into their backpack if they choose to take it off.

The rain jacket featured here is by Paradox. It’s waterproof, breathable, lightweight and inexpensive – everything a jacket for hiking should be.

Check out our review on the best lightweight rain jackets to see more options, including some high-end jackets.

SEE ALSO: Best Lightweight And Packable Rain Jackets

Petzl Tikka Headlamp

Yes I am serious. Sometimes hikes run longer than you anticipated, and before you know it it’s pitch black outside. Or, maybe you are out hunting with a bow, in which case you start early, and finish late.

A headlamp is the one piece of gear that can help you then. The one featured here is the Petzl Tikka – one of the best portable headlamps money can buy.

It is lightweight, extremely bright and has a maximum bean length of 197 feet (60 meters).

Portable headlamps are a lot brighter than phone flashlights. They also have a longer battery life, and can illuminate wider areas. That’s why a hiker needs one.

For more great headlamps, check out one of our detailed reviews.

SEE ALSO:

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Petzl Vs. Black Diamond

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CamelBak Lobo - Hydration Pack

If your friend spends a lot of time on their bike but they don’t own a hydration backpack, then this is an awesome gift.

A hydration pack is a small and lightweight backpack with a hydration bladder. The premium ones have magnetic attachments and bite valves, which allow cyclists to set up hands-free hydration. Meaning that they don’t even have to stop to take a sip – they can do so without taking their hands off the handlebars.

These backpacks usually feature a few smaller pockets for other gear, and some even come with a tool roll.

The hydration pack featured here is the CamelBak Lobo – an amazing hydration pack under $100. You’ll find more good options below.

SEE ALSO:

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Osprey Siskin/Salida

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CamelBak - Bike Tool Organizer (Roll)

If you know that your friend always carries a bunch of tools when they’re cycling, then this is an awesome gift for them. It allows them to organize all of their tools and have them easily accessible at all times. And it fits into any backpack.

Just make sure to check that your friend doesn’t already own one. Some premium biking backpacks come with tool rolls, and you don’t want to get them something they don’t actually need.

The tool organizer featured here is by CamelBak. They are a great brand for outdoor gear, and all of their products are high-quality. This organizer is lightweight, well-made and really cheap for CamelBak.

TAGVO Hydration Bladder Cleaning Kit

This is one of those things that they definitely need if they already own a hydration backpack, but that they probably won’t buy for themselves.

But this gift only works if your friend already owns some sort of hydration bladder. So, make sure that is the case before you go out and buy a cleaning kit.

This is an awesome gift because it is affordable and extremely useful. Your outdoor-loving friend will love it, and it will make their life so much easier.

The cleaning kit featured here is universal and inexpensive. If you’re interested in a more high-end option, check out the Osprey cleaning kit and the CamelBak one.

Garmin Edge 520 Bike GPS - Cycling Computer

If you are shopping for a cyclist that likes to keep track of their rides, then get them a cycling computer.

This is a great gift for anyone who likes stats – they can record the length of their rides as well as average and max speeds. Now, there are lots of different types of cycling computers, in various price ranges.

The main difference between a cheap one and an expensive one is in the features.

Here you seethe Garmin Edge 520 Bike GPS – a high-end cycling computer that is capable of live uploads, social media sharing, offering in-ride challenges, and a lot more.

But since it is fairly expensive, I’ve also linked a more affordable (and less awesome) version of a cycling computer.

Cycle Torch Bike Lights

Bike lights are a must for all cyclists who like to go on night time rides. And if you know your friend doesn’t own a pair, then you’re basically obligated to get them one.

You do want your friends to stay visible in the dark, so that cars and other cyclists can notice them, right?

Sets of bike lights usually include a white headlight and a red tail light. They are inexpensive and compatible with all kinds of bicycles.

The set featured here is by Cycle Torch. It includes two bike lights, charging cables and mounting straps. A proper charger is not included in the purchase, but the bike lights can be charged with a laptop.

Castaway Travel Hammock

If you need a gift for someone who really knows how to enjoy life, then get them a hammock.

Here you can see the Castaway Travel Hammock – a portable hammock that is very durable and extremely easy to set up.

It is very lightweight and it comes in a nifty little pouch that you can carry it in.

Actually, this is one of those gifts that you’re getting for someone, but you definitely plan to use it yourself. Because, who doesn’t want to chill in a hammock surrounded by untouched nature, sounds of chirping birds and a cold beer in their hand?

If you’re looking for more information, check out our detailed review of the Castaway Travel Hammock.

SEE ALSO: Bear Butt Double Parachute Camping Hammock Review

MILIJIA LED Portable Camping Fan

If your camping-loving friend still hasn’t discovered camping fans, then it’s time you introduce them. These are a must for everyone who goes camping in the summer and doesn’t like to sweat a lot.

There’s two types of portable camping fans – battery operated ones, and the ones that you can charge with a USB cable. If you’re getting a battery-operated fan, throw in a pack of batteries to show your friends you really put some thought in the gift.

I’ve featured the MILIJIA LED camping fan here. It’s both a fan and a lantern, and it’s under $20. If you like this idea but not this specific product, you can find more portable camping fans in our detailed review.

SEE ALSO: Best Camping Fans

Thermacell Mosquito Repellent

It might sound silly, but hear me out. If you are shopping for someone who likes to go camping in the summer, then you can really make them happy with this gift.

There’s no doubt they will use it in the summer. Get them a diffuser – this is a highly efficient device, which works great outdoors.

The one featured here is by Thermacell – it diffuses replaceable repellent mats that are scent and chemical free. So, completely safe to use around the kids.

You can also throw in a mosquito repelling bracelet (literally saved me last summer) and some wipes. Make them a mosquito-repelling gift basket – if they are allergic, you’ll become their new favorite person.

SEE ALSO: Best Mosquito Repellents

Bushnell Deluxe Binocular Harness

This is a good gift for someone who is into hunting, bird watching, or you just know that they carry binoculars on their adventures.

A binocular harness is much more stable than a simple strap. It keeps the binoculars close to your chest, so that they don’t swing around and bump you when you’re moving around.

Now, there’s lots of different harnesses you can buy. You can get one for $10, or you can get one for $110. With or without a back plate, with or without a pouch etc. Lots of options.

Here you see the Bushnell Deluxe binocular harness. It’s comfortable, functional and very affordable – a win-win, for both you and your friend.

For more great binoculars harnesses, check out our related review.

SEE ALSO:  Best Binoculars Harnesses

überleben Fire Starter

A fire starter is another one of those things that people don’t think they need. But when someone gets it for them, they usually wind up using it all the time.

The fire starter you see here is made by überleben. It is basically a Ferro rod with an ergonomic wooden handle. It’s designed to be carried around one’s neck, and it appropriately comes with a lanyard.

This is a great inexpensive gift (under $20), and it’s perfect for that friend you’re not really close with. Or you can combine this with a few other smaller gifts, and make an awesome gift basket for your best friend.

Spyderco Delica 4 - Backpacking Knife

This is also a great gift for both hikers and campers – basically all outdoor lovers. But you do need to know your friend very well, if you want to get this gift just right.

There’s several different types of backpacking knives – foldable knives, army knives, multi-tools, neck knives, fixed blade knives etc. The best way to figure out which is right for your friend is to just ask them which type of knife they prefer, or how they like to carry one.

That should help you figure out what type of knife makes the perfect present.

The knife featured here is the Spyderco Delica 4. It has a folding blade and it is one of the best-selling Spyderco knives. You can see other great alternatives in our featured review.

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Travel Capsule Pocket Blanket

It’s a blanket that fold into a tiny pouch which fits into the palm of your hand. And it’s an amazing gift for all outdoor lovers, not just backpackers.

This makes a very versatile and functional present. Plus, it’s so unique – when’s the last time someone gifted you a blanket that fits into your pocket? I know you want one.

It is rather large, and two people can comfortably sit on it.

And it’s also waterproof, so you could use this to shield yourself from rain.

This particular pocket blanket comes with four metal stakes that help you secure it in place. It also features four pockets (one on each corner), so that you can have your stuff handy, but protected, all times.

SEE ALSO: ​Best Outdoor Blankets 

SteriPen - UV Water Purifier

If you’re really close with the person you’re shopping for, get them a SteriPen. It’s an amazing invention – basically this is a UV water purifier.

It destroys harmful bacteria and it makes any water safe to drink. This is extremely useful to have in those worst-case scenarios – what if you run out of food and water and you still have a long way to go. Or if you get lost.

The SteriPen is on the pricier side, but it’s technically under $100. And it also doubles as an LED light – definitely not a replacement for a proper headlamp, but good enough for reading in the dark.

PocketRocket Portable Stove

So, imagine waking up in the middle of the forest. It’s a wonderful day; the sun is shining and the birds are chirping. And then you realize that you don’t have hot water – how the hell are you going to make your morning coffee.

Enter the PocketRocket stove. It is extremely small and it will fit into any backpack without a doubt. And it only weighs 2.6 ounces, so it’s super convenient to carry it on long outdoor adventures.

But there’s a catch – the mini-stove needs fuel to work, which is sold separately. So, it’s not a 100% functional gift straight out of the box.

The upside is that the PocketRocket is universally compatible with isobutane-propane fuel canisters, which you can get in any outdoor gear store.

Garmin GPS

The perfect gift for your outdoor-loving pal whose sense of direction is virtually non-existent. A GPS will help them keep track of their routes, and ensure that they can always find their way home.

The GPS you see here is by Garmin. It is waterproof and designed specifically for outdoor lovers. Also, it features a nifty little wrist bracelet that allows you to wear it like a watch.

However, it’s not a git you’ll get just anyone, considering the price point. And you can’t really get a good and reliable GPS for little money.

But if you want to spoil your friend and show them just how much you care for them, then the Foretrex 401 makes an amazing gift. As long as they’re rational and they actually use it.

Yi 4K Action Camera

If you’re shopping for a really close friend, get them an action camera. But only if they don’t own one – if your friend already has an action camera, check out the next gift idea.

And I am not saying spend $400 on a GoPro – there are so many good alternatives out there, that won’t cost you more than $100.

An action camera is an amazing gift for that outdoor lover who likes to record their adventures. It will show them that you really put some thought into the gift, even if it’s not the best and most expensive piece of equipment.

The Yi 4K is the action camera featured here, and it’s definitely one of the best alternatives to a GoPro. 

SEE ALSO:

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Yi 4K+ vs GoPro Hero5

Action Camera or Drone Accessories

If your friend owns a GoPro or a different action camera, but doesn’t have too many accessories, then this is the best gift for them.

An SD card is probably one of the best things you could get them. It’s that one item they need but probably won’t go out and buy on their own. And I’m talking about a sick, 128GB SD card that would allow them to film hours upon hours of video.

Tripods, gimbals, waterproof cases, lens filters, external mics – all of these are also great action camera accessories. Gimbals are best for people who are very active and like to film their adventures – hikes, mountain climbs, even parachute jumps.

Tripods, on the other hand, are better for people who like to take stills. And the other three accessories are a great gift for anyone with an action cam!

*Just make sure that the accessory you are buying is actually compatible with your friend’s action camera.

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HUL Drone Case

Does your friend often take a drone on their adventures? Then a new drone case is an amazing pick for them.

This is an especially great gift if your friend purchased a drone just recently. Chances are they’re already looking into buying a case, and you can get gift them something they actually need.

A drone case is important not only because it protects your drone, but also because it makes carrying all those accessories very convenient.

You just need to make sure that the case you get is compatible with your friend’s drone.

The case you see here is made by HUL, and it is designed for the DJI Phantom and Phantom Pro drones.

To see other cases, bags, and backpacks for drones, check out our related reviews.

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UGREEN Power Bank Portable Charger

If your friend spends a lot of time outdoors, then they might be struggling with charging their tech. This is why a power bank makes an awesome present.

But not just any power bank. The one I have in mind is a 20000mAh power bank, which supports quick charging. That’s enough juice to keep their tech necessities fully charged for several days!

The UGREEN Power Bank Portable Charger is wrapped with a special coating on the surface for a better handgrip feeling, slim and portable design making it easy for users to slip into the back bag and take it on the go.

goTenna Mesh

This is an awesome gift for all outdoor lovers. The goTenna Mesh pairs with your phone and transforms it into a walkie-talkie. So, it gives that techy friend of yours a valid excuse to use their smartphone when you’re out hiking.

It’s compatible with Android and iOS phones, and it allows you to send and receive texts, make phone calls and send your location info without any WiFi or cell service.

This is a must if for those friends that often like to go their separate ways, but don’t take into account the lack of service in the nature.

With the goTenna, you’ll never have to frantically yell their name again.

The downside is the price – it’s a rather expensive present. But if you’re shopping for that friend you really love, then it’s a great pick.