The 45 Best Gifts For Hikers (Beginner, Budget-Friendly + Splurge)

Post Summary: Best Gifts For Hikers Under $50, luxury, budget-friendly, and more!

Looking for that perfect gift for hikers in your life?

You may think that they don’t need anything special to enjoy the outdoors, but little improvements to hiking gear and clothes can make a HUGE difference!

That’s why we’ve rounded up the best products to elevate their next trail experience, right here.

We’re sharing the 15 best gifts for hikers under $50, to get you or your loved ones outside in comfort and style!

Note: Most of these gifts for hikers are under $50, but keep scrolling – you’ll find we’ve expanded this list to include tons more goodies too!

Emily standing on String Lake Hike - TheMandagies.com

The 45 Best Gifts For Hikers

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We’re breaking down these hiking gifts in categories, so you can better search this post and find the perfect item to buy.

Looking for more gift ideas for that adventure lover in your life? You might like these lists too:

Best Gifts For Beginner Hikers

Best Gifts For Beginning Hikers - Pin

Before we begin, we wanted to highlight some items that would be PERFECT gifts for beginner hikers!

If you have someone (or ARE someone) who is curious about hiking but juuust getting started, use this list! We’re covering some high-quality basics, perfect for beginners.

REI Co-Op Trail 25 Pack ($79.95)

Sized perfectly for day hikes, the REI Trail 25 backpack is the ideal pack to get for all hiker experience levels – from beginner to expert!

With several adjustable straps, tons of pockets and hooks, and a water reservoir to store water, this might day pack does it all!

It’s also been updated with recyclable materials in the body and lining, making it a more sustainable gear choice.


REI Co-op Quarter-Zip Pullover ($49.95)

Best Gifts For Hikers - Quarter Zip Layer

Keep. yourself warm and dry in this super lightweight layer from REI.

The quarter-zip gives extra breathability, and the thumb hooks allow for easy on and off layering without bunching the sleeves.

Everyone needs a hiking base layer like this, and this REI Co-Op branded one is high quality and affordable.


Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack ($29.99)

Make from 100% recyclable materials, the Patagonia Black Hole Hip Pack is the perfect gift for hikers who love to have their gear on hand.

Their 1-liter pouch stuffs down ultra-small, but can fit all your snacks, phone, keys, and other goodies. This is perfect for air travel too!


REI Co-op Hiking Poles ($79.99)

Cool Gadgets For Hikers - Hiking Poles

These are the best-rated trekking poles we could find, making them some of the best gifts for a hiker in your life!

The wrist loops and grip help support balance on the trail, and the retractable properties make traveling with them easy.

If you’ve been wanting to try out beginner hiking poles, this is a great place to start!


Gregory Hydration Pack ($45)

Gregory Hydration Pack - Best Gifts For Hikers

Quick Rule: You should be packing 1 liter of water for every hour you expect to be out hiking.

Stay hydrated on your next adventure with this easy to install hydration bladder! This model holds 3 liters, plenty of water for a long day hiking trip.

Hook it on the inside of your backpacking, and feel the hose through a shoulder strap for easy access to water all day!

This is one of the best presents for hikers for its practical use – they’ll take it on every trip!


Therm-A-Rest Z Mat ($32)

Therm a Rest Z Seat Pad

If you buy just one of these gifts for hikers, make it this one!

The Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Pad is extremely versatile, and is a staple for all our backpacking and hiking trips.

This pad helps prevent sharp rocks from snagging your clothes, and can be used as a resting spot on long hiking trips too.


Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof Boots ($130)

Gifts For Hikers Merrell Thermo CHill Mid Waterproof Boots -WOmen

These women’s hiking boots are perfect for cold weather adventures – they are waterproof and insulated!

The lace-up hooks at the top make for a secure fit, perfect for Pacific Northwest hiking trails all year long.

More Hiking Boot Resources:
> 7 Tips To Always Choose The Right Hiking Boots
> 4 Essential Strategies to Break In New Hiking Boots
> The 12 Best Hiking Boots For the Pacific Northwest Weather


America The Beautiful – National Park Pass ($79)

Love hiking in National Parks?

Lucky for us in the Pacific Northwest, we have TONS nearby, from the gorgeous Olympic National Park, majestic Mount Rainier, and the rugged North Cascades National Park!

The American the Beautiful Pass pays for itself in just three park visits, which makes it one of the absolute best hiking gift ideas for the outdoor lover in your life! They’ll be thanking you all year long!


Inexpensive Gifts For Hikers Under $25 (Budget-Friendly)

Best Gifts For Hikers Under $25 - Pin

These budget-friendly hiking gifts are perfect if you’re tight on funds! We’ve hand picked the best hiking stocking stuffers that are high-quality AND at a low price, giving you the best of both worlds.

Injinji Hiking Toe Socks (Liner) ($12)

Injinji Crew Socks - Best Hiking Gifts

Know someone who gets blisters often?

This might be one of the perfect gifts for hiking lovers!

Injinji sock liners are meant to go on under your regular hiking socks, preventing excess moisture and rubbing inside your shoe.

We can personally vouch that these socks work!


REI Co-op Gift Card

REI Co-op Gift Card

Overwhelmed by the amount of amazing gift ideas for hikers? Sometimes the best method is to let them choose their own!

You can go wrong with an REI gift card. It’s one of the best last-minute gifts to give someone, without sacrificing quality or thoughtfulness.


Darn Tough Socks ($15-$25)

Darn Tough Hiker Crew Socks

Darn Tough socks are built to last a LONG time.

They even have a special warranty program – if your socks wear out, you can literally exchange them for a brand new pair!

Socks always make good hiking presents, so your recipient is going to love all the fun colors and styles that Darn Tough offers!


REI Co-op Water Bottle ($15)

Inexpensive Hiking Gifts - Water Bottle

You literally can’t go wrong with a trusty water bottle. They are always useful, and these Nalgene x REI Co-op water bottles have stood the test of time!

They come in tons of colors, and you can even use them as a fun hiking stocking stuffer, so put even more goodies inside.


Tenacious TApe ($8-$12)

GearAid Tenacious Tape Repair

Do you know someone who seems to snag their clothes often? Or maybe they just like to extend the life of their gear as long as humanly possible!

Gear Aid’s Tenacious Tape are fabric patches that come in tons of colors, materials, and even shapes!

We like the plain strips to cut exactly the size we need, and the fun outdoor shapes to patch our gear up with fun designs.


The Deuce #2 UltralighT Backcountry Trowel ($19)

The Deuce Backcountry Trowel - Best Budget Hiking Gifts

This will be one of the best hiking gifts you will ever give! The Deuce #2 UL Backcountry Trowel is the perfect companion for when nature calls deep in the forest.

It weighs practically nothing and is handy for digging a hole and burying your…deposits…for responsible Leave No Trace practices.

Pooping in the woods isn’t glamorous, but it sure is a lot easier with this tool!


GoodR Sunglasses ($25)

Goodr OGs Sunglasses

Goodr Sunglasses make bringing eye protection on a trip stress-free!

With polarizing frames (AKA protects against harmful rays!) and non-slip grip, they stay on your head better than regular sunglasses. No more worrying about losing them on the trail or falling off your face!

They come in tons of styles, shapes, and colors, perfect for customizing, and even better as stocking stuffers!


Stasher Bags ($15)

Know someone who loves packing their own delicious hiking snacks?

Stasher Bags are the perfect solution for storing food, and reducing waste.

They come in tons of colors, shapes, and sizes to easily accommodate all kinds of food.

Grab individual ones here at REI, or browse Amazon’s Stasher Bag collection for fun sets!


Hiking Gifts For Him

Osprey Packs Stratos 24L Backpack ($180)

Gifts For Hikers - Osprey Backpack 24L

This highly breathable, versatile pack is perfect for long day hikes in the mountain.

With several adjustable straps, you can secure it for a comfortable long-term fit for lengthy trails.

If you are heading out on a quick overnight trip, this 24L backpacking also has sleeping bag straps so you can secure extra gear to the outside.


The North Face Horizon Breeze Brimmer Hat ($45)

The North Face Brimmer Hiking Hat
Hiking Hat

The North Face Brimmer Hat is the perfect companion to sunny trails and hot days.

It wicks sweat from your face, keeping your head nice and dry.

The adjustable shock cord will keep it on your head on windy days, and the variety of colors makes it really customizable to any hikers!


Buff Coolnet Insect Shield ($29)

Know someone who loves hiking in the summertime? June and July in the Pacific Northwest are RIPE with insects like mosquitoes, ticks, and flies.

The Buff CoolNet with Insect Shield helps prevent and repel insects, and better avoid diseases carried by these pesky creatures.

It’s all the best features of a classic Buff, with even more cool features!


REI Co-Op Polartec Fleece Gloves ($45)

We have personally owned this pair of REI Polartec Gloves for YEARS and it’s a staple in our winter hiking getup!

The are soft on the inside, e-tip compatible, and convenient to attach together and store.

These gloves are great for anyone who loves to go hiking in the winter, and do winter sports like nordic skiing or snowshoeing!


Patagonia Brodeo Beanie ($49)

Patagonia Brodeo Beanie - Hiking Gifts For Him

Nothing is better than a good Wes Anderson-style beanie, especially in the Pacific Northwest!

You’ll fit right in on OR off the trail. From surfing to coffee shops, backpacking or camping, the Patagonia Brodeo beanie is the perfect accessory.

No need to join the Life Aquatic cast to rock this hat – the trails will do just fine!

Made from recycled wool, this beanie is extra cozy and perfect for those cold trail mornings. It comes in multiple colors too, so you can buy one for every mood you’re in!


JOBY Gorillapod Mini Tripod ($41)

Film Tripod Mini - Gifts For Film Photographers

If you’re looking for a travel tripod with versatility, we recommend the JOBY GorillaPod Mini Tripod.

It’s a great hiking companion if you enjoy capturing footage while on the trail!

This one has legs that can wrap around trees and easily accommodate uneven surfaces.


Hiking Gifts For Her

Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks ($13-$25)

Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks - Gifts For Hikers

Smartwool hiking socks are perfect for thru-hikers, backpackers, and tough adventurers.

Make sure to buy at least two pairs to bring on your next trip! They come in tons of colors, making them some of the best gifts for hikers!


Gone Hiking Candle by Homesick ($38)

Hiking Gifts For Her - Homesick Candle

Bring the scent of the forest home with you!

These incredibly popular Gone Hiking candles by Homesick smell SOOO good, and remind us of our forest bathing escapades.

With notes of Pine, Jasmine, and Sandalwood, these candles will make your room smelling like fresh forest air in no time!


Kula Cloth – Antimicrobial Pee Cloth ($20)

Kula Cloth Microfiber Pee Cloth

No more packing out messy toilet paper on the trail, take a pee cloth instead! Kula Cloth is the perfect discrete accessory for independent women.

You simply use it to wipe when you’re done peeing, snap it back on the exterior of your pack, and let it air dry!

The antimicrobial surface keeps it clean and absorbent, and the snap closure allows you to fold it in half for more privacy too.


Columbia Global Adventure Packable Hat ($35)

Best Hiking Gifts  Columbia Global Adventure Packable Hat

The Columbia Global Adventure Packable Hat is not only super stylish, but it’s meant to be stuffed in a suitcase and still keep its shape!

This makes it the perfect gift for hikers who like to go on grand, international adventures.

This packable, pliable hat doesn’t need coddling, and can stand up to being thrown around and packed away in a bag. It will bounce right back with it’s shape!

The wide brim and 30 UPF rating means you can stay safe AND stylish on the trail!


Saalt Menstrual Cup ($28)

Saalt Menstrual Cup - Hiking Gifts For Her

Nothing screams inconvenient more than starting your period mid-hike! I mean it’s totally normal, but could there be any worse timing??

If they haven’t tried menstrual cups yet, this one by Saalt might be one of the most useful hiking gifts for her.

You can wear these up to 12 hours, which means it can stay in place the entire trail!

Menstrual cups make managing periods in the backcountry a little easier so you can focus on the things that bring you joy – like good company and nature!


Lululemon EveryWhere Sling ($48)

Lululemon Everywhere Sling Bag - Best Hiking Gifts For Her

Something that she can wear on AND off the trail? Count us in!

The Lululemon Everywhere Sling Bag is taking the world by storm.

It’s hugely popular for its size, wide array of colors, and overall stylish nature that fits a wide range of outfits.

This is one of the best hiking gifts for her that she will use practically everyday!


The North Face Berkley Mini Backpack ($45)

The North Face Berkley Mini Backpack - Hiking Gifts For Her

Bring EXACTLY what you need and nothing else with The North Face Berkley Mini Backpack.

This backpack has three main compartments (front zip, big zip, and inside zip) as well as an exterior pocket to fit a full-sized water bottle.

Take on the trails with style on your next adventure with this bag!


Hydro flask Standard Mount 24 oz Water Bottle ($39)

Hydro Flask 2 Oz Water Bottle - Hiking Gift Ideas For Her

The Hydro Flask Standard Mount 24 oz Water Bottle is the largest of the standard mount sizes.

We love the skinny frame of this one, because it easily fits into the side pockets of most backpacks!

This bottle comes in TONS of colors, so you can customize it to be the perfect hiking gift for her.


Unique Gifts For Hikers (Accessories, Cool Gadgets, Etc)

Hydro Flask Food Jar 20 oz ($39.95)

Take your homemade chili on the go with this Hydro Flask 20 oz Food Jar.

Its vacuum seal and leak-proof protection mean it will keep hot things hot and cold things cold for hours.

Don’t settle for bland food on the trail – make your own extravagant hiking snacks at home and take them on your next trail! You’ll make all your adventure buddies jealous.


AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press ($40)

Aeropress Coffee Press Gifts For Hikers

This portable AeroPress means that making great coffee mid-hike will be a breeze!

This set comes with everything you need, including filters.

The drinking mug doubles as a carrying case, so you know you’re packing a functional piece of gear for your next hiking trip!

Read More: 6 Ways To Make Coffee While Camping


Peak Design Capture Clip ($75)

Oregon Photography Gear - Camera Clip

If you’re looking for the best gadgets for hikers, this one might be the perfect gift to get them!

The Peak Design Capture Clip is designed to fit on any backpacking strap and your camera, creating a secure fit while providing easy access to your gear!

If you know a hiker who also loves photography, you definitely need to buy them this.

Looking for more camera gifts for hikers? Read our 20 must-have photography accessories!


Smartwool Liner Gloves ($24)

Smartwool Tech Liner Gloves

Sometimes you just want to keep your hands warm without all the bulk.

Use these Smartwool Liner gloves for easy handling (hellooo touchscreen friendly!) and then layer up later when you’re ready for more intense adventures.

This Christmas gift for hikers will keep them warm all season long!


Outdoor Research High Boot Gaiters ($35)

Outdoor Research High Gaiters - Outdoor Gifts Under $50

Keep the snow out of your shoes for good with this essential layer for Washington winter hikes!

These super-durable gaiters by Outdoor Research have boot hooks on the front and bottom lace hooks that keep them secure and in place.

They also work for summer too – keep dirt and bugs out of your shoes in the warmer weather!


Pacific Crest Trail – Washington Day & Section Hikes ($15)

Gift Ideas For Hikers - Pacific Crest Trail Hiking Book Washington

Is hiking the Pacific Crest Trail on your bucket list? One way to start getting acquainted with the trail is to practice by taking day hikes and section hikes!

There are many books about the PCT, but we think it’s best to start with a PCT map and hiking guides for your favorite state.

Here’s the Washington section hikes book, the Oregon section hikes book, and the Northern and Southern California PCT section hikes book.


Plant Foraging Books

Gift Ideas for Hikers - Foraging Books

One of the coolest gifts for a hiker is forest knowledge! It’s super rewarding (and important!) to know which plants are edible and which ones aren’t.

Personally, we love Pacific Northwest Medicinal Plants by Scott Kloos, and the fun recipe book The Forager’s Pantry by Ellen Zachos.

However, you can find foraging books specific to the region you’re in!


Gifts For Hiking Safety

Garmin In-Reach Mini 2

Garmin inReach Mini 2

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is one of the best hiking gifts for those who like to take longer, more advanced adventures.

This two-way satellite communicator acts as a tether to the real-world. Keeping your friends and family informed of your location at all times when in the backcountry!

Note: Using a Garmin requires a subscription, kind of like a cell phone plan. Basic plans start as low as $15/month, and you can start and pause your subscription based on the months you are using it!


Adventure Medical Kit – Mountain Series ($24.99)

Adventure smarter with an easy-to-pack medical kit on your next hike. These Adventure Medical Kits are essential gifts for hikers of all experiences!

These first aid kits come in several sizes, ranging from a day hikers kit for 1 to an entire mountaineering medical kit for 10!


Counter AssauLt Bear Spray

Counter Assaunt Bear Deterrent - Gifts For Hiking Safety

This is one hiking gift idea you hope is never used, but will be glad it’s around when an emergency arises!

Counter Assault Bear Spray is easy to use, and a great deterrent for if you have a close encounter with a bear. This is especially important to have if you plan on exploring any hikes in Glacier National Park!

Remember: You can’t check bear deterrent on an airplane, or carry it on board with you. If you have to fly to your hiking destination, buy it once you arrive!


Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp ($49)

Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp - Best Gifts For Hikers

This is the kind of gift that will last them for YEARS.

The Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp has won tons of awards, and is one of the best-selling and highly-rated headlamps on the market.

Headlamps come in handy during sunrise and sunset hikes, and are also a great hiking safety gift for those unexpected events on the trail.

Give them the gift of light! (Also, the Astro 300 is a more budget-friendly headlamp option)


Luxury Gifts For Hikers

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket (~$200)

Gifts For Hikers - Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket is probably one of the most versatile layers that you can give any outdoor lover!

It’s the perfect Christmas gift for hikers, because they come in many styles and colors, fitting nearly anyone’s style preferences.


Arc’Teryx Beta Lt Men’s Jacket ($450)

Arcteryx Beta LT Jacket Mens - Luxury Gifts For Hikers

The Arc’Teryx Beta LT Jacket is as close to perfect as you can get. It’s incredibly lightweight, while keeping you super dry in rainy, rough conditions.

Waterproof, windproof, and breathable, it’s the last jacket you’ll ever need for hiking and outoor adventures.


Danner Mountain 600 Hiking Boots ($220)

Hugely popular in the Pacific Northwest, the Danner Mountain 600s are trusted by hikers and adventure lovers practically anywhere you go.

These boots work in all seasons, perfect for muddy trails to rocky mountain terrain. It’s the boot that all the cool kids have!


Osprey Poco Child Carrier ($350)

Osprey Poco Child Carrier - Best Outdoor Gifts For Families

The adventure can still continue, even after your family expands!

The Osprey Poco Child Carrier is the perfect companion for family trail outings.

It had numerous adjustable features, safety accessories, and lots of storage space for all your hiking essentials!


Garmin Forerunner 965 ($600)

Garmin Forerunner 965 - Luxury Hiking Gifts

The Garmin Forerunner 965 is for serious hikers, trainers, and trailblazers.

With all the sleek aesthetics of a traditional high-tech watch, it has tons of cool features that enhances your performance and trail experience.

From reporting your quality of sleep to training readiness scores, you can customize it to maximize your body’s potential!

It even has GPS built into it, so you can track your location while in the backcountry. This watch has it all!



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