When gifting to an outdoorsy person it’s best to focus on things that will bring convenience, comfort, and practicality. It’s about helping them stay in their happy place for longer, and for them, that’s the great outdoors.
This guide features the 67 best gifts for outdoor lovers. It’s broken down into gifting ideas for the following types of adventurers: women, men, hikers and backpackers, road trip lovers, cabin goers, and travelers. Then I included some creative splurge gift options if you want to spend a little more on your special person!
Whether you’re looking for a holiday or birthday gift, this gift guide for outdoor lovers will help you find the best outdoorsy gifts for that special someone!
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Best Gifts For Outdoor Lovers – 2022 Edition
This guide contains 67 gift ideas for outdoor lovers this holiday season! If that isn’t enough inspiration, then consider giving a Backcountry gift card or an e-gift certificate so your special someone can choose their own outdoor gear. If you’re looking for more stocking-sized items, we also have a holiday guide featuring the 18 best outdoor and travel stocking stuffers.
Outdoor Gifts For Women
These are my favorite gifts for adventurous women! I’ve included items that I have personally tried and tested over years of outdoor adventures. They would all make for practical yet exciting gifts!
The North Face Gotham Down Parka
The North Face Gotham Down Parka is a super warm and stylish jacket for the cooler months. I love that it covers my hips and provides extra warmth on my thighs. I get so many compliments on this jacket!
Barbour Merino Cashmere Tartan Scarf
The Barbour Merino Cashmere Tartan Scarf is a luxurious gift idea for adventure lovers. It’s warm, super soft, and available in a range of authentic Scottish tartans. I love pairing mine with a parka and leather boots for an outdoor yet stylish look. Note that the green in the color below is a little more muted compared to the image.
Blundstone Chelsea Boot
In my opinion, the Blundstone Classic 550 Chelsea Boots are a staple wardrobe item. They are incredibly versatile, durable, waterproof, and perfect for both casual and active adventures. I wear these on short hikes, road trips, camping, and around town. If you’re looking to gift a dressier pair then I would recommend the Blundstone Heeled Boot.
Patagonia Retro Pile Marsupial Pullover
The Patagonia Retro Pile Marsupial Pullover is one of the coziest and most versatile sweaters! I own it in multiple colors and wear it on outdoor and casual adventures. Pretty much all my girlfriends also own and love this fleece, so I don’t think you could go wrong gifting it!
Patagonia Down Sweater Full-Zip Jacket
The Patagonia Down Sweater Full-Zip Jacket is one of my favorite down jackets and has been for years now. I’m forever impressed by the warmth of this jacket for how lightweight it is. I also like its more fitted look, which I like much better than the unflattering boxy style I find from a lot of other brands, and you can buy it with or without a hood. This jacket comes with me on pretty much every adventure, cannot recommend it enough! My husband also swears by the men’s version. I also love the Patagonia Radalie Insulated Jacket for a lighter weight winter jacket to wear around the city.
Sorel Explorer II Joan Faux Fur Boots
The Sorel Explorer II Joan Faux Fur Boots are perfect for cold-weather adventures. I love that they are waterproof, fluffy and cozy on the inside, and they keep your feet toasty warm. These are great for short hikes, easy adventures, and casual wear. I recommend sizing up half a size to allow for thick socks and toe warmers. Another great option is the Sorel Tivoli IV Boot (pictured above).
Pendleton Cable Hat
The Pendleton Cable Hat is one of my favorite beanies and has been for years. I own it in 3 colors and practically live in it during the cooler months. I know a lot of women who also love this beanie and overall can highly recommend it as an affordable gift. Another classic beanie option is the Fjallraven Classic Knit Hat.
Smartwool Classic Hike Crew Sock
The Smartwool Classic Hike Full Cushion Crew Socks are some of my favorites for hiking and backpacking in the cooler months. They also come in a more lightweight and summer-friendly option; the Smartwool Hike Light Crew Sock.
Goodr Polarized Sunglasses
These Goodr Polarized Sunglasses are known for being affordable, durable, and lightweight. They’re the perfect gift for the active, outdoor woman! For more of a splurge, I also love the SMITH Cheetah Polarized Sunglasses.
Fjallraven Ulvo Medium Hip Pack
It’s no surprise to me that fanny packs and hip packs are back in style. The Fjallraven Ulvo Medium Hip Pack is my absolute favorite! I bought it for traveling but now use it for everyday adventures too. It’s perfect to store your wallet, keys, phone, mask, and other small must-haves. The strap on this hip pack is long enough to be worn around the waist, or across your shoulders as a sling bag.
Stoic Tech Fleece Leggings
I have sworn by fleece-lined leggings for years now and the Stoic Tech Fleece Leggings are the perfect option for cool-weather adventures. These fleece-lined tights are comfortable, warm, stretchy, and durable. They’re a winter and holiday must!
Danner Mountain 600 Hiking Boots
The Danner Mountain 600 Hiking Boots are my go-to. They are super comfy straight out of the box, waterproof, stylish, and durable. These are amazing boots for traveling through more demanding terrain and unpredictable weather. They come in women’s and men’s versions. I have a blog post reviewing different Danner Boots, if you’re curious about some of Danner’s other styles, too! For a similar style in a more budget-friendly option, I also love the Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boots.
backcountry GOAT Fleece Shirt
The Backcountry GOAT Fleece Shirt has been my go-to this year for all kinds of adventures – it’s so versatile! I love wearing it unbuttoned over t-shirts during the summer months and shoulder seasons. Then for colder days, I wear it buttoned up or layered underneath jackets. It also comes in two other color options.
Osprey Packs Tempest 24L Backpack
The Osprey Tempest 24L Backpack is my go-to for hiking adventures. It’s lightweight, has a good amount of storage, is compatible with hydration bladders, and is made to fit a female body (the chest straps actually sit right, unlike so many unisex backpacks!) It comes in multiple sizes, including 20L, 34L, and a 45L size great for backpacking trips.
Outdoor Gifts For Men
These are the best gifts for outdoorsy men! Everything featured has been tried and tested by my adventure-loving husband and friends.
Patagonia Insulated Fjord Flannel Shirt
The Patagonia Insulated Fjord Flannel Shirt is similar to one of my own favorite Patagonia women’s flannels, but it also has added insulation. This means it can be worn as an actual jacket and not just a shirt. Plus, it’s a relaxed fit so he can layer other tops underneath if it’s really chilly.
Fjallraven Byron Thin Hat
The Fjallraven Byron Thin Hat is the perfect beanie for any adventurous man. My husband loves his and wears it when hiking, backpacking, and on road trips. The folded brow allows for an adjustable fit, making it a gift they won’t need to return!
Blundstone Classic 550 Boots
The Blundstone Classic 550 Boots are true to their name… a classic boot that can be worn in nearly any outdoor or casual situation. They are waterproof, extremely durable, comfortable, and have impressive traction. Both my husband and I love our Blundstones and would highly recommend them to anyone who enjoys outdoor adventures.
Patagonia Nano puff Jacket
The Patagonia Nano Puff Hooded Jacket is such a classic jacket and one my husband has sworn by for years (I also love the women’s version!) The Nano Puff is lightweight and breathable, yet surprisingly warm at the same time. It comes in a range of colors and would make a practical gift for any outdoor-loving man in your life.
Opinel No 8 Stainless Steel Knife
The Opinel No 8 Stainless Steel Knife is lightweight (1.5 oz), aesthetic, and the perfect gift for any outdoorsy man. With its price point under $30, it would also make for a unique stocking stuffer.
Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece
The Patagonia Better Sweater 1/4-Zip Fleece is a real classic and owned by many outdoor-loving men in my life. It’s warm, super soft on the inside, versatile for different adventures, and comes in 11 color options! I own the women’s version in a few different colors and also recommend it for my fellow adventurous ladies!
Darn Tough Hiker Socks
You can’t go wrong gifting a pair of Darn Tough Hiker Boot Cushion Socks. They are perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking and backpacking and don’t get as stinky due to their merino wool-based material. Both my husband and I have owned Darn Tough socks for years now and not a single one has got a hole… they are very durable! I love that these socks are made in the USA (Vermont, to be exact!)
Teva REember Terrain Slipper
Everyone needs a good pair of slippers, and the Teva ReEmber Terrain Slippers are the coziest! I wear the women’s version all year round, and love them for van trips, running errands, and around the house. The KEEN Howser III Slide Slipper is a good alternative that comes in a few colors!
Patagonia Corduroy Cap
My husband and I both love all of Patagonia’s hats, and the Patagonia Corduroy Cap would make a perfect gift. It’s under $50, and everything Patagonia makes is very high quality, so you know this will last them many years of adventures.
Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini 1L Hip Pack
The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini 1L Hip Pack is the perfect small fanny pack for when you need nothing more than the essentials. It fits your keys, wallet, phone, chapstick, and a snack or two! Great for hiking, camping, running errands, or anytime you want to keep your essentials easily accessible.
Gifts for Hikers and backpackers
The following outdoor gift ideas are specifically for people who enjoy hiking and backpacking. I have put these gear items through the wringer over the years and can highly recommend them for their function and durability.
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
The Petzl Actik Core Headlamp is a rechargeable, compact, and user-friendly headlamp. I love how easy it is to adjust the settings and that it comes with a USB cable for charging (no more buying batteries!) I’ve owned this headlamp for about 4 years now and highly recommend it.
Jetboil Minimo Cooking System
The Jetboil MiniMo Cooking System is a versatile, lightweight, and easy-to-use camping stove option for cooking in the backcountry (or anywhere really!) I love that the MiniMo has simmer control and a push-button igniter.
Buff Midweight Merino Wool Gaiter
The Midweight Merino Wool Buff is an affordable gift option for outdoor lovers. This merino neck gaiter can be used for warmth and wind protection, and can also double up as a face covering, headband, or beanie. The Backcountry Spruces Merino Buff is another great option. These are very versatile for hiking and camping – you can even stick a puffy jacket inside and use it as a makeshift pillow!
Kahtoola Microspikes
The Kahtoola MICROspikes have been my go-to for icy adventures for about 6 years now. You put them on over your hiking boots and can walk on slippery services/trails without sliding around. They are the perfect gift for anyone who enjoys winter adventures!
Black Diamond Trekking Poles
The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles are some of the best on the market. They are lightweight, durable (I’ve had mine for 5 years), and comfortable to hold. I can recommend these for year-round hiking adventures.
Black Diamond Moji R+ Lantern
The Black Diamond Moji R+ Lantern is a must-have for any outdoor lover. It’s super lightweight (2.9 oz) and USB rechargeable (no worrying about batteries!) I also love the MPOWERD Lux Lantern which is solar powered and inflatable. Plus it’s under $25, making it the perfect stocking stuffer!
Helinox Chair One Camp Chair
My FAVORITE camping accessory is the Helinox Chair One Camp Chair. It’s so lightweight and easy to set up – it’s perfect for car camping or even a luxury item for your next backpacking trip. Pair it with the Helinox Camp Table for the ultimate camping gift!
Snow Peak Coffee Drip
The Snow Peak Coffee Drip is key to a delicious cup of coffee when you’re backpacking or camping. Add some of your favorite beans for an ideal stocking stuffer!
Garmin inReach Mini 2
It’s a bit of a splurge, but the Garmin inReach Mini 2 is an emergency device that can be used by hikers, campers, and all kinds of outdoors enthusiasts. It’s a satellite device for communication and SOS in case of emergencies. It’s a great gift for a loved one that spends a lot of time outdoors.
Gifts For Road Trip Lovers
Have that one person in your life that always seems to be on a road trip? Below you will find the best gift ideas for road trip lovers!
Backcountry All Around 40L Duffel
I love the Backcountry All Around 40L Duffel for road trips and weekend getaways. It fits more than you would expect and can be carried as a duffel or used as a backpack with handy removable straps. Choose from 5 different colors and it also comes in 60L and 105L versions.
Stanley Adventure Water Jug
This Stanley Adventure Water Jug is perfect for road trips and pre/post-adventure hydration. The jug fits 2 gallons and I like how the spigot has fast/slow options and an ice catch feature to prevent clogging. My husband and I use this water jug all the time!
Yeti Roadie 24L Cooler
The YETI Roadie 24L Cooler is the perfect size for day trips and short adventures. I am always impressed by how long it will keep ice, drinks, and food cold, and I love the easy Quicklatch system. This version comes in 3 different colors. For a more portable cooler, the YETI Hopper M30 Soft Cooler is a great option.
Kelty Low Loveseat Camp Chair
The Kelty Low Loveseat Camp Chair is such a great gift for someone who enjoys car camping and road trips. They are lightweight, collapsible, and surprisingly comfortable for two people.
Stoic Basecamp Bivy Quilt
The Stoic Basecamp Bivy Quilt Double is an affordable insulated blanket that’s perfect for car camping, tailgating, drive-in movies, and more. Since one side is water-repellent, you can lay it on the ground for warm weather celebrations under open skies. This quilt could replace a sleeping bag during the warmer months of car camping. There’s a corduroy and sherpa version that looks super cozy, too.
Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest Hammock
The Eagles Nest Outfitters Doublenest Hammock is big enough to comfortably fit two people for the next time you want to lounge. The attached stuff sack makes it perfect for hiking, backpacking, or road-tripping.
Coleman Cascade 222
The Coleman Cascade 222 would be a great gift for a camping and cooking lover. This two-burner stove means you can make coffee and breakfast at the same time, and the stove is conveniently packable and portable for all your adventures. The Coleman Cascade 18 is a good alternative for a camp stove with one burner.
Nocs Provisions Standard Issue Waterproof Binoculars
A good pair of binoculars is a must on any road trip, and the Nocs Provisions Standard Issue Waterpoof Binoculars fit the bill! I like having these on hand for wildlife sightings when I travel, and often when I hike too.
Stanley Camp Pour Over Set
I love that the Stanley Camp Pour Over Set includes a reusable, metal filter so you don’t have to worry about disposable coffee filters while camping. The classic camp mug is perfect for keeping your coffee hot while you enjoy it at your campsite.
Gifts for Cabin Goers
Gifting a cabin getaway would be extra special (check out this blog post on the best Washington cabins to rent!) If that’s too much or they already have a trip planned, consider the following cabin-loving gift ideas.
Pendleton Eco-Wise Wool Washable Fringe Throw Blanket
The Pendleton Eco-Wise Wool Washable Fringe Throw Blanket is such a cozy yet functional item to gift! I love using this blanket for cabin visits, road trips, car camping, picnics, and around the house. The cozy wool comes in 9 different patterns/colors, and it’s great that you can wash it if it gets dirty on your adventures.
Teva Re Ember Fleece Moc
Cozy slippers are a must for any cabin stay and for around home during winter! The Teva ReEMBER Plushed Slippers are perfect and come in both a women’s version and a men’s version. I wear these constantly on trips in the van, camping, and even around the house!
Camp Chef Roasting Sticks
The Camp Chef Extendable Safety Roasting Sticks are a great gift idea for anyone who enjoys campfires, whether that be at a cabin, at home by a fire pit or fireplace, or in the great outdoors when camping. They come in a 4 pack and have two reverse wire holders on each stick, one for hot dogs and the other for marshmallows.
GSI OUtdoors Moka Pot
The GSI Outdoors Moka Pot is perfect for cabin stays, car camping, or around the home. It makes up to 6 double shots of espresso and the rugged stainless steel is tough enough for weekends in the woods. Pair it with a camp mug!
Snow Peak Field Barista Grinder
With its compact size and adjustable ceramic burr, the Snow Peak Field Barista Grinder is the perfect gift for the coffee lover who doesn’t want to skip on a great cup just because you’re traveling.
Pendleton Towel
The Pendleton Oversized Jacquard Towel is made from cotton velour, making it super soft and absorbent. It’s also very large and offers cozy coverage on cold days. This towel is the perfect gift for people who enjoy hot tub soaks, hot spring adventures, or coastal cabin trips.
Smartwool Everyday Heritage Crew Sock
These classic Smartwool Everyday Heritage Crew Socks are perfect for cozying up around the fire, drinking coffee or cocoa, and watching snow fall. The wool blend comes in a few different colors, depending on your style. The Smartwool Everyday Cozy Lodge Socks are a nice alternative with classic winter-inspired patterns.
Rustico Leather Writer’s Log Refillable Notebook
The Rustico Leather Writer’s Log Refillable Notebook would be perfect to keep track of your memories and adventures. I love journaling while cozied up at a cabin!
Gifts for Travelers
The following items would make perfect gifts for any travel crazed loved ones in your life. I swear by these products and know any travel lover would appreciate receiving them!
Fjallraven Travel Toiletry Bag
The Fjallraven Travel Toiletry Bag is a unisex dopp kit for travel lovers. It’s durable, has an easy-clean lining, and is made from eco-friendly materials. Plus, it has numerous handy organizer pockets and an integrated hook for hanging in any bathroom.
GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Ring Cutlery set
The GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Ring Cutlery Set is a portable, reusable set of cutlery to use when traveling to avoid single-use plastics. It comes with a small clip to keep everything together and can be clipped onto your backpack or purse.
Packtowl Personal Towel
The Packtowl Personal Towels are a must-have when traveling! I pack a hand towel and full-sized towel on almost all trips, including summer hikes, road trips, cabin getaways, and plane rides. The microfiber material is quick-drying, packable, and won’t stink with multiple uses between washes.
Osprey Packs Ultralight Packing Cube Set
The Osprey Packs Ultralight Packing Cube Set is perfect for packing and organizing your clothes when traveling. They help you save space and keep everything together and easy to find. I never travel without packing cubes!
Backcountry x Arcade Belt
The Backcountry X Arcade Belt is an adventure-ready, comfortable way to keep your pants up when hiking, skiing, or really doing anything active! The plastic buckle is lightweight and easy to clip on and off, and I love that they make a slim style for women.
Hydro Flask 20oz Wide Mouth Coffee Mug
The Hydro Flask 20oz Wide Mouth Coffee Mug is perfect for coffee and tea lovers on the go. I’ve had other canteens spill in my backpack before but can vouch for this one being 100% leakproof!
Topo Designs Camera Cube
The Topo Designs Camera Cube is my go-to camera storage system for sliding into backpacks that aren’t my camera bag. When I go backpacking I put this in my pack and I’m good to go! It’s padded to keep your camera gear safe and fits 1 camera, 2 lenses, and my little pouch with additional batteries/cleaning cloths, etc.
Splurge Gifts for Outdoor Lovers
Do you have that special someone in your life on who you’re looking to spend a little extra money? The following items are high-quality, splurge gift ideas for all the best-behaved outdoor lovers out there!
Parajumpers Panda Down Jacket
The Parajumpers Panda Down Jacket is literally like wearing a sleeping bag. It’s SO cozy and really warm! I wear this jacket on cold-weather outdoor adventures and around town.
Hestra Heated Liner Gloves
The Hestra Heated Liner Gloves are ideal for people who get super cold extremities. You charge them up at home and then can choose from 3 different heat settings once you’re out in the elements. Wear these on their own or pair them with the Hestra Heli Gloves. They also come in a Heated Liner Mitten.
Biolite Firepit
The BioLite FirePit brings camp cooking to a whole new level. Throw in a couple of logs of firewood and you’ll be cooking up a gourmet camp meal in no time! With long battery life and easy setup, this firepit is a really fun (and tasty) addition to camping adventures! You can also buy accessories for it, like the Grill Lid, Griddle, Carry Bag, and FireMat.
Thule X Tepui Explorer Roof Top Tent
The Thule x Tepui Explorer Ayer 2 Roof Top Tent brings some extra luxury to car camping. Gone are the days of sleeping on the ground. Now, you can sleep on your roof away from pesky critters AND on a comfortable mattress!
POP Paddleboards Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard
The POP Yacht Hopper Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard is a great addition to any camping gear closet. It’s inflatable, so it packs up nice and small making it easy to store. If I had a dollar for every time I sat by a beautiful body of water wishing I had a SUP with me I’d be a rich lady!
Lyric Therapeutic Massager
There’s nothing better after a long hike or camping trip than using the Lyric Therapeutic Massager on your back or legs. With multiple attachments and speed settings, this wireless electric massager will help sore muscles recover quickly!
Fjallraven Kiruna Padded Parka
The Fjallraven Kiruna Padded Parka is a bit of a splurge gift but it’s an item that will last for years and never go out of fashion. This jacket offers resistance to wind and water, a moderate amount of insulation, and a longer fit for added protection. It comes in this beautiful tan color and khaki green. If you’re looking to gift something warmer then The North Face Arctic Down Parka is a good choice.
Ooni Fyra 12in Wood Pellet Pizza Oven
The Ooni Fyra 12in Wood Pellet Pizza Oven is definitely a luxury item, but when that pizza craving hits you’re going to be thankful you have this. The wood pellets keep the perfect temperature for the perfect pizza. Gift it along with the Ooni Cooking With Fire Cookbook!
Red Wing Heritage Classic Boots
The Red Wing Heritage Classic Moc 6in Boots are the kind of timeless boots that will last for years and always be in fashion. I can also vouch for their comfiness with the cork filler footbed for absorbing shock. These classic boots come in both a women’s version and a men’s version.
Final Thoughts on Gift Ideas for Outdoor Lovers
I hope this list helped you find the perfect gift for that outdoor lover in your life! Remember that gifting experiences and quality time is ideal. Looking for ideas? Check out my guides on Meaningful Holiday Experiences and Magical Winter Outdoor Adventures During the Holidays for some suggestions, or plan a trip to one of the 12 Best National Parks to Visit in Winter.
Your gift list for nature lovers is awesome! Categorizing by type of explorer makes it easy for everyone to find the perfect gift. Thanks for sharing these helpful ideas!
Hey Renee, wondering if you have any good recommendations for a mens overnight backpacking pack? Would love to give my man one but also love a good recommendation. What does your man use and does he like it?