Christmas is only a week away, and I’m sure some of you are still looking for gifts to buy your loved ones. If you’re short on ideas for the avid hiker in your life, I’ve put together a list of 15 items they’re sure to enjoy. I’ve included stocking stuffers, big-ticket items, and a few items in between. Make sure to make this holiday a memorable one. I’ve included Amazon links for each item. You still have four days left to order to receive your gifts before December 25!
1.) Sony a6000 Camera, Tripod, Wrist Strap, and Memory Card
Do you have an aspiring photographer in the family? Make sure to pick up the Sony a6000. This is the camera I’ve used for the past 2 years, and it has served me very well. What makes this even better, is that it’s available on sale at a pretty nice discount right now!
Sony Alpha a6000 Body only | Sony Alpha a6000 with 16-50mm
If your loved ones already own a camera, pick up a few accessories. We photogs are always looking for lightwieght tripods, camera straps, and extra memory.
Pedco Lightweight Tripod | 32GB Memory Card
| Peak Design Wrist Strap
2.) GoPro Action Camera
If your loved ones are more into shooting video, make sure to pick up a GoPro. GoPros are once again at the top of everyone’s wishlist this year, which comes as no surprise. The cameras are tough and rugged, but also provide incredible footage.
GoPro HERO4 SILVER | GoPro HERO4 Session
3.) Darn Tough and Ex-Officio Socks and Underwear
I was never a fan of getting socks and underwear for Christmas as a kid, but just like growing into the taste of coffee, I’ve learned to appreciate them. Quality socks and underwear are very important when spending long days on the trail.
Darn Tough Merino Wool Sock | ExOfficio Boxer Brief
4.) Arc’terex and Patagonia Down Jackets
With winter in full swing, it’s important to stay warm. Make sure to pick up a down jacket if your loved ones are currently going without one.
Atom LT Hoody | Atom LT No Hood
| Patagonia Men’s Hoody
| Patagonia Mens No Hood
|Patagonia Women’s Hoody
| Patagonia Women’s No Hood

5.) Delorme InReach and Spot Satellite Messengers and Trackers
A satellite tracking device is very important for safety in the backcountry. Make sure to keep your loved ones safe, and provide yourself with a way to follow along!
DeLorme inReach SE | Spot SatelliteGPS Messenger
6.) Jet Boil Flash Cooking System and Mountain House Meals
There is nothing better than having hot meals at the summit of a mountain. This lightwieght setup is perfect for such adventures.
Jetboil Flash | Mountain House Meals

7.) Black Diamond Headlamp
We still have a ways to go before the days grow substantially longer. Give the gift of light this holiday season and allow your loved ones to continue exploring when the sun goes down.
Black Diamond Storm | Petzl TIKKA
8.) Black Diamond Trekking Poles
I used these poles for 225 miles on the John Muir Trail this summer. They’re one of my favoirite overall pieces of gear.
9.) Ruffwear Dog Harness, Dog Jackets, and Bowls
Don’t forget to shop for your pets! If you have dogs that like to get out and explore the outdoors, make sure they’re nicely outfitted to do so!
Web Master Harness | Cloud Chaser Jacket
| Bivy Bowl

10.) Sawyer Mini Water Filter
I used this lightwieght filter on the John Muir Trail and loved it. This is also great for avid travelers.
Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System
11.) GPS or ABC Outdoors Watch
I love to track all of my hikes and backpacking adventures on my GPS watch. It’s also great to have real-time data at the tip of my fingers. When I’m not actively hiking, I wear my ABC watch (altimeter-barometer-compass) to deliver a lot of the same information without the GPS functionality. Both watches make for great gifts.
Suunto Ambit3 Peak GPS | Casio “Protrek” ABC Watch
12.) NUUN Hydration Tablets and ProBars Meal Bars
Hydration and nutrition are vital for long days on the trail. Help support your loved ones with hydration tablets and food bars.
Nuun Hydration Tabs | Probar Meal Bars
13.) Hillsound Trail Crampons
With trail covered in snow and ice, it’s important to add some extra traction to help stay upright. These trail crampons slide over your existing hiking shoe to do just that.
Hillsound Trail Crampon Traction Device
I have a lot of items on your list & agree they are all great! I would also recommend Cairn Subscription Box~I did a year for myself for Christmas this year 🙂
Thanks! I’ll have to check out the Cairn boxes!
Great list! I’ll add the FitBit!
Thanks!
You are really spot on here. These are great recommendations. I love that you included items for dogs in there. The most important thing in my opinion. Great Read, thanks.
Thanks! Dogs are just non-human persons! Ours get so excited for Christmas and love opening gifts!
Nice list
Thank you!