7 Gifts For The Backpacker Who Has Everything

If you have a backpacker on your holiday shopping list, this post is for you.  Chances are your hiker already has a closet full of gear that they have carefully researched and selected.  A new tent, stove, or sleeping bag is an extremely personal choice but the gifts below are sure to please any outdoor lover (and keep them away from the returns counter).

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1.  Magazine Subscriptions

Outdoor magazines make for great travel reading and help scratch that hiking itch on days you can’t get out on trail.  Plus, if your hiker is already a subscriber, your gift can be set up as an automatic renewal for the next year. Many publications offer great deals for the holiday season including free gifts or two-for-one offers.  Check out Outside or Backpacker or search for a local publication specific to your area.

2.  Camp Pillow

Backpackers who carry a pillow often find it is a piece of gear they switch out frequently.  Much like your pillow at home it is difficult to know what works for you until you’ve slept on it for a few nights.  A backpacking pillow that doesn’t quite work out can be used for travel or passed on to a hiking buddy interested in trying something new.  

A few favorites include:

NEMO Fillo – with a layer of luxury foam.  Check out my review here.

Sea To Summit Aeros Premium – lofty and lightweight

Exped Down Pillow – inflatable with an insulating down layer

3.  Passes and Memberships

The holiday season is a great time to give parks passes and other memberships for the new year.  Click these links for information about purchasing parks passes in New York, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and Maine.  Or check out the America The Beautiful Pass which allows entry into national parks throughout the United States.  For hikers who have annual memberships with outdoor organizations or hiking clubs, these memberships also make great gifts.  An Appalachian Mountain Club membership, for example, includes discounts on guides and maps, gear, trips, lodging, and camping fees as well as a subscription to AMC Outdoors magazine.

4.  Outdoor Clothing

Many hikers wear technical clothing from outdoor brands both on and off the trail.  The best pieces are comfortable, durable, and multi-use. A few tried and true classics that can go anywhere from a summer backpacking trip to a ski weekend, to Sunday brunch include Smartwool base layers, Patagonia fleece, and Darn Tough socks.  (Plus, with a lifetime replacement guarantee, these socks are a gift that keeps on giving.)

5.  Subscription Boxes

When you give a subscription box designed for hikers and lovers of the outdoors, you are giving the gift of exploration and anticipation.  Who wouldn’t love the idea of trying new gear every month? Check out Cairn, Wild Woman Box, Hiker Crate, and Nomadik.

6.  Stuff Sacks And Dry Bags

I use stuff sacks and dry bags to stay organized on trail but also to store gear at home.  Most hikers could find a use for another bag or two in a different size, shape, or color.  Look for lightweight sacks with positive reviews regarding durability.

These are a few hiker favorites:

Sea To Summit Lightweight Dry Sack

Sea To Summit Mini Stuff Sack Set

Outdoor Research Ultralight Dry Sack

7.  Gift Cards

I know, a gift card isn’t exactly a creative gift idea.  It is, however, a special treat for backpackers who not only love gear but love shopping for gear.  If your hiker enjoys visiting an outfitter, touching everything in the store, comparing specs, and weighing their options, pick up a gift card at your local gear shop.  Alternatively, opt for a larger retailer that best meets the needs of the recipient.  REI’s generous return policy is great for new backpackers and indecisive shoppers, Backcountry.com has a huge selection, and Sierra Trading Post is perfect for bargain hunters.

What is your go to backpacker gift?  What would you most like to receive this holiday season? Let us know in the comments below!