Gifts for hikers
Hikers appreciate gear that’s light, durable and useful on every trail. Merino hiking socks, a good headlamp, an insulated bottle and the America the Beautiful national parks pass are all great picks. Here are eight ideas from about $15 to $120.
The short list
- America the Beautiful pass About $80
- Merino hiking socks $20–28
- Headlamp $25–50
- Insulated water bottle $30–45
- Trekking poles $60–120
- Lightweight daypack $50–100
- Enamel camp mug $15–25
- A national parks guidebook $20–35
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America the Beautiful pass
Typically About $80
Why it fits
A year of entry to US national parks and federal recreation lands. For a hiker, it’s an invitation to plan trips, and it pays for itself after a few visits.
Merino hiking socks
Typically $20–28
Why it fits
Merino keeps feet warm when wet, doesn’t smell after a long day and helps prevent blisters. Hikers can’t have too many pairs.
Headlamp
Typically $25–50
Why it fits
For sunrise starts, late finishes and camp at night. A rechargeable headlamp is an essential they’ll reach for on every trip.
Insulated water bottle
Typically $30–45
Why it fits
Keeps water cold in summer and tea hot on winter hikes. Durable enough to be dropped on rocks.
Trekking poles
Typically $60–120
Why it fits
Take pressure off knees on long descents and add balance on rough ground. A big comfort upgrade for anyone tackling steeper trails.
Lightweight daypack
Typically $50–100
Why it fits
For day hikes, a light pack with a hip belt and a spot for a water bottle makes a long day more comfortable than an everyday backpack.
Enamel camp mug
Typically $15–25
Why it fits
For coffee at the trailhead and cocoa at camp. Tough, light and charming in a way a plastic cup isn’t.
A national parks guidebook
Typically $20–35
Why it fits
For planning the next big trip. A good guide to the parks is something to dream over in winter and use all summer.
Light, durable, useful
Hikers carry everything they bring, so they value gear that earns its weight. Before buying, ask whether it’s something they’d actually put in their pack.
Know what kind of hiker they are
- Day hiker: socks, a bottle, a daypack, a parks pass.
- Backpacker: they have strong gear opinions; consumables, socks and a headlamp are safe.
- Winter hiker: warm layers and an insulated bottle.
Sizes and fit
Avoid boots and technical clothing unless you know their size and preferred brand. On Giver, friends can save their clothing and shoe sizes and favorite brands, which takes the guesswork out.
Questions people ask
What’s a good gift for someone who loves hiking?
Merino socks, a headlamp or the America the Beautiful pass. They’re useful for every level of hiker and hard to have too many of.
Should I buy hiking boots as a gift?
No. Boots need to be tried on and broken in. A gift card to an outdoor store is a better way to help.
Shopping for one person in particular?
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