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When you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. Whether you’re shopping for a nature newbie or someone who has (almost) everything they could ever need for an outdoor adventure, this list is sure to inspire some fresh new ideas.
It’s also packed full of great gift ideas for any budget. We’ve got the best outdoor gift ideas for under $40, basic apparel you should have for outdoor adventures, quirky camp accessories, and more.
- Hammocks (you could stop right here)
- Outdoor gifts under $40
- Gifts for travelers and road trippers
- Gifts for campers
- Gifts for hikers and backpackers
- Gifts for snow seekers
- Gifts for water warriors
- Gifts for outdoorsy men
- Gifts for outdoor women
- Gifts for kids
HAMMOCKS… MAKE THE BEST GIFTS FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS
Check out our complete Hammock Buying Guide, which breaks down the various types of hammocks and what—and who—they’re best for. For now, these are our go-to’s.
ENO DoubleNest Printed Hammock
ENO is one of the top-selling hammock companies, and they have some fun new prints that spice things up. This hammock is designed for two people and comes in a dozen color combos and patterns. They’re well made and durable, designed to withstand the outdoors. Don’t forget hammock straps!
Kammok Mantis Ultralight All-in-One Hammock Tent
For anyone interested in hammock camping, this is a great piece of grey that offers a comfortable place to sleep and protection from the elements. The tarp will keep wine and rain out, while you sleep nestled and suspended in air inside. It’s also great for backpackers looking to cut down on weight. Ditch the tent for this ultralight weight sleeping system.
Vivere Double Hammock with Stand
For a great price, this comfortable, cotton, well-made hammock comes is very well made and comes with its own space saving steel frame. It’s easy to assemble and take apart, so you can toss it in the trunk to bring car camping, to the park, a friend’s BBQ, wherever.
OUTDOOR GIFTS FOR UNDER $40
Nomadik Gear Subscription Box
A monthly subscription service delivered to your doorstep full of cool outdoor gadgets and gear. We tested out the box and can promise it would make for an awesome gift for outdoor lovers.
Customized CamelBak Bottles + Travel Mugs
Personalized gifts are the best. CamelBak lets you personal lots of its bottles and tumblers. You can use words or upload a photo to be added to the product.
Camping Log
I found this journal in a store in Bend, Oregon and have dutifully filled it out every night out camping ever since. It’s fun to go back and read about past camping trips, being reminded of details you’d already forgotten.
Everest Whiskey Glasses
Up your rocks glass game with these glasses in the shape of Mt. Everest, offering even more inspiration to conquer the great outdoors with every sip of liquid courage.
Books About Outdoor Adventures
Calling all gearheads, especially anyone who geeks out on history. This book is great for anyone fascinated by the evolution of outdoor gear and/or inspired by the stories of the people who set out on the most daring first attempts. Written by explorer and survivalist Ed Stafford, Expeditions Unpacked details 25 great expeditions, looking at the equipment these explorers took along with them, like Amelia Earhart’s 15-hour flight across the Atlantic in 1932 and Roald Amundsen’s 19-month race to the South Pole, 1910-1920.
Gerber Suspension NXT Multi-Tool
Everyone needs a multi-tool. Not only do they come in handy in so many situations when you’re outdoors, but it’s great to have something like this in your car for just-in-case situations. This particular model is a top pick based on functionality + price = a winning combo.
Coleman LED String Lights, 10 Lanterns
Well, if this just isn’t the cutest thing you’ve ever seen. Decorate your back porch at home to give it that camp feel, or add to your next camp setup.
Marshmallow (and Hot Dog) Roasting Forks
While random sticks do work well, marshmallow roasting sticks are one of the things that will get the most use when camping. They withstand the heat, clean up easily, and make roasting over the fire so simple with an adjustable handle.
GIFTS FOR TRAVELERS AND ROAD TRIPS
National Park Posters
Artist Robert Decker has a collection of WPA-style National Park Posters that make for a perfect gift. Did you share a trip to one of our national parks recently with someone you love, or are you eyeing one for a future bucket list adventure? He’s got lots to choose from. Read more about the posters, or look though his collection to find your favorite.
REI Travel Duffel
One can never have too many duffle bags. What’s more practical than a duffle? Stuff your stuff in and go. This one—like everything REI makes—is great quality with an even better price tag.
Coalatree Kachula Blanket
This multi-purpose blanket also doubles as a hooded poncho. It’s water and stain resistant, so it’s perfect for camping, hiking, picnics, etc. It’s available in several cool patterns and lives in our trunk. You never know when you might need an extra layer.
Cotopaxi Fanny Pack
In true Cotopaxi form, the Bataan Hip Pack stands out with its colorful style, making it the perfect fanny pack for any ourdoor fashionista. It is made with repurposed materials, and the nylon ripstop fabric is durable and lightweight.
Fjallraven Kanken Pack
Say what you want about hipster culture, these bags have gone mainstream. Fjallraven’s signature vintage-style backpacks and travel accessories speak to simpler times, slowing down, and getting off-the-grid. Mustache wax sold separately.
GIFTS FOR CAMPERS
Kelty Low Loveseat Camp Chair
Shopping for outdoorsy people who have everything can be tough, but there are gems out there like the camp loveseat that you can fairly assume they don’t own and make for great gifts. This is also perfect for families so kids can sit together and roast marshmallows or cuddle up in mom’s lap after a long day adventuring.
Luci Inflatable Solar Light
This is pretty much my favorite piece of camping gear (lame? whatever), and—BONUS—it was given to me as a gift. This lantern is inflatable so when it’s not in use, it shrinks down for easy packing. It’s also solar powered. You get plenty of juice even if it’s not super sunny, and it lasts all night. It’s bright, and also adjustable. There are two straps on either side for easy hanging. It’s just perfect.
Camp Cookbook
For on-the-go gourmands who don’t want to scrimp on meals, this camp cookbook has recipes ranging from breakfast and lunch to snacks and full-on feasts. Highlights include the dutch oven pork, blueberry skillet scones, and veggie chowder. It also has drink recipes because, well, camping and cocktails just go hand in hand.
Enamelware Coffee Percolator
Camp coffee is better than any other coffee. This classic enamel percolator brews a perfect cup of joe in minutes, and comes with a lifetime warranty. Because that’s how long this gear will last.
Pull Start Fire Pull String Firestarter
This may be seen as cheating, but for anyone who struggles to build campfires (raises hand), why not get a little head start? Especially if it’s cold, windy, or wet—forget about it! These bad boys light your fire instantly and can be a total lifesaver.
Portable Battery-Powered Camping Fan
Just because you’re outside doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice all of life’s little pleasures. It gets HOT out there, and these little fans can be a life saver. Rig this up in your hammock, tent, from a tree while you stop for lunch, wherever. It’s small but mighty and makes a big difference.
Coleman Compact Propane Stove
I have a love/hate relationship with camp stoves. I try to cook over an open flame as much as possible, but sometimes stoves are just more convenient. It’s nice to bring along when you’re car camping—ya know, just in case. I love the look of this vintage compact stove, which is just big enough for two pans so your eggs and bacon are hot at the same time.
GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper Cookset
Everything a family of four needs to cook and eat in the wild. This set has 4 plates, bowls, and mugs with sip lids, plus a 2-liter pot, 3-liter pot, frying pan, and most important, a pot gripper for getting things off the fire or stove safely.
GSI Outdoors Gourmet Kitchen Set
This all-in-one kit has everything you need for your camp kitchen, including condiment containers, a cutting board, scubber and scraper, camp towel, spoon, spatula, and more. Complete with a nice carrying case so nothing gets lost.
HydraPak Water Reservoir
We all could be doing more to cut down on single-use plastic, and this is one easy way to eliminate unnecessary jugs of water while camping. This 8 liter bladder from HydraPak, comes with a wide-mouth cap for easy pouring and has a flexible handle that helps you carry and hang it. On its own, it’s extremely lightweight (9 oz) and packable. Such a smart investment and great gift for eco-conscious adventurers.
GIFTS FOR HIKERS AND BACKPACKERS
REI Flexlite Chair
This mini chair is great for kids while camping or backpackers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort. Even when every ounce matters, there are some ounces that are nonnegotiable. For some, that includes a one-pound (!) folding chair. Because after a long day, sitting in a comfortable chair is just so much better than sitting on a log or a rock or the ground.
Buff Multifunctional Headwear
It’s always nice to have one of these in your bag. Buffs can keep you warm or clean from dust, act as a towel if that’s what you need at that moment, etc…
LifeStraw Water Filter
I met these guys at Outside Experience, and people were drinking water straight from a nasty fish tank full of dirt and who knows what else. It really works. And, as you know, it’s really important to have clean water while backpacking. The LifeStraw is small, lightweight, cheap, and effective.
MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove
A portable stove is pretty much an essential for backpacking, and this is pretty much a fantastic option for a great price.
Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack
Truth be told, most dogs have more energy than we do out on the trails, so why not let them help carry some of the stuff? This comfy pack has a snug, non-slip fit and two points of leash connection.
GIFTS FOR SNOW SEEKERS
Smith Snow Goggles
Some of the best in the field, these Smith I/O MAG™ S ChromaPop Goggles feature an innovative new interchangeable system that’s designed for peak performance and a perfect fit. These are a smaller lens that’s still big on field of vision. With anti-fog technology and optical clarity, these ChromaPop performance lenses help you see the snow and lets you change lenses between bright light and low light conditions.
Snowshoes
Snowshoeing = winter hiking. It’s a fun way to enjoy the outdoors when it’s covered in snow, and something everyone in the family can do together.
Smartwool Ridgeway Gloves
A good pair of gloves is pretty much a given for anyone spending time outside in the winter. These versatile gloves are made from leather and wool with a double-layer on the thumbs and index fingers for a more durable design to withstand use in the outdoors.
GIFTS FOR WATER WARRIORS
At this price, this might be the best gift on the list. With more than 5,000 ratings on Amazon, this kayak has 4.4 stars. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to dip their toe in the water (pun intended), best for small bodies of water like lakes and mild rivers. Since it’s inflatable, it’s easy to pack down and transport. It comes with a set of aluminum oars and air pump.
Waterproof Socks
Catalyst iPhone X Waterproof Case
I know they say iPhones are waterproof these days, but I’m not taking any chances. This case is made from shock-proof premium materials and has a slim design. It’s great for swimming, taking to the beach, out on a boat or kayak, etc.
GIFTS FOR OUTDOORSMEN
Hults Bruk Tarnaby Hatchet
Every man loves manly tools, and there’s no better wilderness tool than the hatchet. This is small, all-purpose hatchet can be used for making kindling, chopping firewood, and clearing some light brush or debris from your campsite or trail—or any other way deemed necessary out in the wilderness.
Arc’teryx Zeta SL Rain Jacket
So you want to spoil him? Arc’teryx makes super duper quality stuff. Buy this once, and you’re set for life. It’s highly technical gear with no detail overlooked. This rain jacket is one of its most popular models.
Merrell Trail-Running Shoes
If your man doesn’t have a pair of Merrells, hook.him.up! I love their trail running shoes because they’re super lightweight, have great tread, and—let’s be real—compared to some other options, they’re pretty stylish. Merrell is also my go-to brand for water shoes. If you’re doing any trekking through water, they offer the same great support and dry quickly.
Darn Tough Hiking Socks
If you know anything about hiking, it’s that you can’t skimp on footwear. Darn Tough makes quality wool socks in lots of fun color schemes. Buy one pair and they’ll last you for years. Sometimes you get what you pay for. Sorry (not sorry), Hanes.
ExOfficio Boxer Briefs
Hiking and other strenuous outdoor activities requires special underpants to deal with things like sweat, smell, etc. I know guys who wear these as everyday underwear. Just saying.
Patagonia Reversible Bivy Down Vest
Every stylish outdoorsman needs a stylish vest.
GIFTS FOR OUTDOOR WOMEN
GoGirl
Don’t laugh! We all know guys have it easier when it comes to peeing wherever they please. This handy “urination device” is leveling the playing field by allowing girls to—are you ready for this?—pee while standing up.
Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
A puff jacket is the most versatile winter gear. They’re lightweight enough to layer and keep you warm in very cold temps or comfortable in only slightly cold temps. It’s more like a three-season jacket, if you can believe it.
Merino Wool Midweight Base Layer
I really only wear REI and Patagonia base layers. They personally fit me better, and they’re less expensive than a lot of other brands. Midweight is great on its own for keeping warm if it’s a little chilly out, or you can layer it under a coat if it’s cold. They’re also great for sleeping in if it’s chilly at night.
Patagonia Ahnya Pants
It might seem ridiculous to spend so much money on joggers, but the last time I checked, I spend more time in my loungewear pants than anything else. Think about it: at home, traveling, road trips, airplanes, at camp after a day hiking or backpacking, etc, etc. These pants are divine and worth every penny.
KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Shoes
There’s no wonder these are a best seller. You really can’t go wrong with KEEN’s wide variety of quality hiking shoes. There’s something for everyone. Personally, I prefer a low ankle for simple hiking. These are lightweight and flexible yet durable, waterproof hiking shoes.
ExOfficio Thong Underwear
Who says you can’t be sexy when you’re outside? Listen, I wear ExOfficio underwear and thongs when I’m hiking or backpacking, and they’re great. They’re a little more high-waisted than my everyday underpants, which is helpful, and they’re made of that same breathable material like your favorite outerwear. Winter is for full-booty coverage. Summer is for no underwear-lines.
OUTDOOR GIFTS FOR KIDS
REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack – Kids’
Kids have lots of important things to carry around, whether on the trail or walking around the block. Help them do it in style with this cool and comfy backpack.
REI Co-op Kindercamp 40 Sleeping Bag
Get the little ones even more excited about sleeping outside with a fun sleeping bag.
Kids Canteen
Canteens are just more fun than regular water bottles.
Kammok Roo Jr. Hammock
Because every adventurous kid deserves his own mini hammock to hang and chill in. Kammok is a leader in outdoor hammocks, and one of few brands that sells specific kids’ size hammocks. The Roo Jr. holds up to 400 lbs and is built for kids under 54″.