13 Last Second Gift Ideas For The Avid Hiker

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!

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Black Diamond Trail Pro

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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