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If you’re in search for great gifts for hikers and backpackers that won’t break the bank, here are are fifty great gifts for around $50.00! This list consists of items to use on the trail, at home, or items that remind you of the trail. All of these items are things I would recommend to my hiking friends, and is the most diverse gift list for hikers out there!
MSR Pocket Rocket- As exciting as the name sounds! Pair this tiny stove with a fuel canister and you’re ready to create some great meals on the trail.
Eno SingleNest Hammock-Great for backpacking, car camping, the beach, or your backyard!
SOL Escape Bivvy-A little added security if you need to spend an unexpected night in the woods.
Petzl Tikka Headlamp- 80 lumens, 190 hours burn time, and 5 light modes: everything you’d need in a headlamp.
REI Flash 22 Pack- A simple, sleek backpack for a day on the trail
Hillsound Trail Crampons- Lightweight traction for winter hikes.
Toshiba Canvio Portable Hard Drive 1 TB- Hikers take lots of photos. Give them a place to safely store them all.
Outdoor Research Adrenaline Gloves- Keep your hands warm and dry with these waterproof yet breathable gloves.
LifeProof phone case- If you take photos with your phone, make sure you have a case that can handle spills.
Therm-A-Rest Z-Lite Sleeping Pad-A popular pick, this closed cell foam is rugged enough for those who backpack in rugged areas.
Snow Peak Trek 900 Titanium Cookset-Titanium cookware is a great investment as it will perform well and last years.
Trigger Point Revolution Foam Roller- Roll out tight knots and loosen sore muscles after a long day on the trail
Nathan Firecatcher Hydration Vest- For those who want to dabble in trail running. If you want another (but more expensive option) the Ultimate Direction SJ vests are highly rated.
Baffin Base Camp Insulated Booties- These babies will keep your toes warm for winter camping or trail stories in your living room.
RavPower External Battery Pack- Keep everything you need charged when you can’t plug in.
Cairn- These boxes are great you get a variety of cool products to try out. And who doesn’t love getting mail? It’s $25 a month and you can gift as many months as you’d like!
Sun Altimeter 203 - Measure the altitude as a navigation aid or just for curiosity sake.
Purple Rain Adventure Skirt- My favorite clothing item for hikes. They make kilts too!
Teva Terra Athletic Sandal- For those looking for a quality pair of stream crossing/camp shoes. Check out Tevas for men here.
Exped Air Pillow UL- Give a little luxury without cramping their lightweight style.
Outdoor Herbivore 3 Day Meal Combo- All vegetarian meals to feed a backpacker 3 meals a day for three days!
Garmin Vivofit Fitness Band- Track your stats on this sleek device.
Krave Gourmet Jerky Variety Pack- An assortment that includes 10 bags of beef and pork jerky!
Sea to Summit X-Pot- This 2.8 liter cookpot has the ability to flatten for storage.
Outdoor Research Sensor Gloves- Keep your fingers warm and still be able to take photos with your phone.
National Parks Checklist Map- A great gift for someone looking to see the country via our nation’s parks!
Black Diamond Storm Headlamp- Up to 160 lumens. Perfect for night hiking.
TrailSigns- Give a hand crafted Appalachian Trail sign made from reclaimed wood!
Outdoor Research Gradient Beanie- So many colors to choose from and incredibly soft.
Peak Design Slide Camera Sling- For the avid photographer. Keep your DSLR close with this system.
Donate- Give a gift in someone’s name. A $50 donation to the National Forest Foundation will support work done in our nation’s forests and plant 20 trees. Pick an organization you identify with!
Goal ZeroFlip 20 Recharger- Charge your phone and other small electronics when you’re in the field.
Tarma Designs- This beautiful hiking themed jewelry is great for any adventurous woman in your life! There are even long distance trail designs.
Nesco American Harvest Food Dehydrator- Make your own jerky, snacks, or meals for backpacking.
Ruffwear Front Range Everyday Harness- This easy to use harness is ideal for taking your pup on the trails.
Columbia Zip Off Pants- These pants do double duty zipping off into shorts when you need ’em.
Sea to Summit Silk Liner- Add to your sleeping bag to add 10 degrees of warmth.
December Moon Design Trail Bracelet- A consistent reminder of the trail right on your wrist!
Leatherman Wingman- 14 in 1 multitool.
Ninja Pulse Blender- Give the gift of healthier eating with a blender. Whip up some smoothies for the ride to the trailhead.
Salomon Panorama Full Zip Midlayer- women’s midlayer for cool days on the trail.
Salazon Organic Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt- A box of twelve delicious bars. These may not last very long!
Marmot Precip Rain Jacket- Stay dry in wet conditions with this popular jacket. Get the women’s version.
Sea to Summit TPU Waterproof Case- Keep your phone dry in inclement weather.
j/fit Angle Balance Board- Train at home for improved balance and agility.
Post hike meal and beer- grab a gift certificate to their favorite brewery.
CamelBak Kids Mini M.U.L.E Hydration Pack- Get your kids on the trail and hydrated with a pack designed to fit them right.
Packit Gourmet Basic Camp Kitchen Kit- The perfect starter kit for the new backpacking chef. This kit includes all of the basic vegetables, beans and meats necessary for eating well on the trail.
Hiking Books- This list has over 60 awesome books about hiking. You’re bound to find a few you’ve never heard of before!
Illustrated 2016 National Park Calendar- They’re under $20 so grab a print or two while you’re there from this talented artist!
Still unsure? Bonus #51 is a no brainer. Let them choose with a gift card so they can find the perfect item for their next adventure! I recommend Amazon, REI, or Backcountry for the most variety.
For even more ideas, check out 25 gifts $25 or less as well this guide for a gift that will wow!
Last modified: September 1, 2017
