119 Best Gifts for Hikers & Backpackers 2022 [Unique Ideas]
It’s hard to buy gifts for hikers and backpackers in 2022. I get it.
We’re a gear-hungry bunch who spends an obscene amount of time searching for products that’ll take our trail game to the next level. Finding unique gifts for us hikers can get overwhelming because we don’t just want good gear; we want the best gear.
But don’t stress out because I’m a trail chasing, mountain climbing, ultralight backpacking gear junkie, and I’m here to help.
This hiking gift guide — updated for 2022 — is split up into easy-to-navigate sections, each with its own category. The gear, clothing, food, and other gifts on this list will be suitable for any budget, with price tags ranging anywhere between $5 and $700.
So stay tuned, and I’ll help you find the perfect present for that beloved hiking or backpacking fanatic in your life. If you have questions about anything on this list, leave me a comment, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible with my best gear nerd answers.
Noel’s Top Picks for Hiking & Backpacking Gifts
Minimalist Water Filter: Sawyer Squeeze
Water purification is essential in the backcountry, so the Sawyer Squeeze is a perfect present for any backpacker looking to filter water on their trip. The Squeeze weighs just over two ounces, is extremely packable, and is rated to filter over 100,000 gallons of water. It’s a staple of the backpacking community.
Health & Wellness Gifts for Hikers
Healthy Insect Repellent: Sawyer Picaridin Lotion
Mosquitos, gnats, flies, and ticks are not only incredibly annoying but can also transmit devastating diseases. This DEET-free Picaridin-based lotion is healthy, easy to apply, and will last up to 14 hours. No harm if it comes in contact with clothing or gear, either, as it dries quickly and won’t damage synthetics.
Read more of the gift guide written by Noel Krasomil here.
May 9, 2022
The Packable Life
Hello, world. I’m Noel Krasomil, the guy behind The Packable Life. I’m a trail-seeking, deal-finding, street food-devouring, blog-obsessed 30-something from Colorado, U.S.A. I have been a full-time travel writer for over a year, with no end in sight.
I created The Packable Life to inspire others to travel, hike, and blog with purpose — to grow stronger, more focused, and more inspired every day on the road. I want to challenge you to pack lighter, travel longer, hike farther, and blog smarter.
LIFE OUTDOORS
MEDIA MENTIONS
Fresh drinking water is essential. This water filtration system ensures you will never run out as long as there is a nearby natural water source. It can filter out bacteria, protozoa and microplastics.
MEDIA MENTIONS
Faster and more efficient than pumping or waiting for chemical treatments, the Sawyer Squeeze System offers on-the-go hydration at a good flow. This product is long-lasting, affordable, reliable, cleanable, and very user-friendly.
MEDIA MENTIONS
But Sawyer was way ahead of me — 15 years ahead, to be precise. In 2008, the brand started its Clean Water for All initiative, which provides Sawyer filters to developing countries around the world. And the company spends 90% of its profits funding it.
