Not all campers are created equal. Over 10 million Americans own at least one RV, after all, so it’s safe to say that there are more than a few glampers out there in the world. However, for those of us who have a passion for the outdoors and wouldn’t be caught dead sleeping in a camper, there are a few necessary tools.
But if you aren’t one of those people, it can be hard to determine what the best gifts for campers are. If you’re feeling lost going into the holiday season, you’re in the right place! We’ve compiled a list of 10 amazing gifts for any outdoorsman to help you shop with confidence.
So, without further adieu, let’s get started!
1. Sleeping Bag
Whether you’re sleeping in a tent or under the stars, whether you’re camping for one night or twenty, a sleeping bag is an absolute must for any camping enthusiast. Particularly if you’re a fan of camping in high elevations, even warm days can turn frigid after dark, and the last thing you need is a poor night’s sleep or to catch a cold when you’re trying to make the most of your trip.
2. Tent
Some campers insist on sleeping with nothing above them but the starry skies, but it’s always wise to have a tent in your pack, just in case. If there is inclement weather, for example, it’s nice to have a backup sleeping arrangement so you and your sleeping bag don’t get drenched.
3. Camping Knife or Multi-Tool
A camping knife or multi-tool is an indispensable piece of equipment when you’re on the trails or at your campsite, making it one of the best gift ideas. From cutting open packaging to carving a walking stick by the campfire, to opening a bottle, or even cutting a loose thread from your coat, think of any camping activity, and a multi-tool can help with it.
Just be sure it’s either foldable or comes with a sheath so your friend or family member can store it safely.
4. Hammock
Hammocks are a great alternative to tents if you know there will be fairly warm weather. All you have to do is throw a tarp over it and you’re safe from the rain as well! But even if it isn’t used for sleeping, hammocks are a fun item to keep in a pack. They’re light-weight and usually come with bags to store them in that will hook on to the outside of a backpack, so they take up virtually no space.
They’re great for taking a reading break or a quick cat nap on the trail or even setting up at the campsite for relaxing under the stars before heading into the tent for the night.
5. Lantern or Headlamp
Whether it’s a lantern, headlamp, or flashlight, it’s important to have a light source with you at all times when camping. If you need to step into the woods to relieve yourself away from the campsite or to look for firewood, or your hike took a little longer than you anticipated and you need to light the way back to your tent, having some way to light your surroundings is never a bad thing.
6. First Aid Kit
Simply put, a first aid kit should be a top priority for any camping or hiking pack. Camping is a ton of fun but comes with a high possibility of getting hurt. We don’t mean life-altering injuries here, but even minor wounds, like cuts and scrapes, need attention when you’re in nature because of the chance of infection.
7. Cooking Utensils
There are a few options when it comes to cooking on the trails or at the campsite. While it’s possible to get by with a stick and some hotdogs, it’s always nice to have a little luxury here and there, even if that means cooking beans or pancakes in a skillet over the fire.
That being said, if your camping enthusiast friend is also a foodie, they might enjoy an outdoor stove, many of which can heat two pots or pans at once, making it possible to cook an entire meal, even in the middle of the woods.
8. Water Filter
This one isn’t for glampers, but if your loved one is a hardcore outdoorsman (or woman), a water filter might be just what they need. Now, you can purchase a water bottle that filters as you drink, but one of the coolest survival tools out there is the water filter that looks like a straw. You simply dip one end of the straw in water, and drink through the other!
They are highly effective, too, removing 99.999999% of contaminates, so your friend or family member can stay hydrated and healthy no matter where they are.
9. Water Container
On the subject of water, it’s vital to have some type of water container on your camping trip. Whether it be a few water bottles or a larger pouch that could even be used to wash dishes or as a shower, you should never be without clean water.
10. Hiking Backpack
Finally, your friend will need something in which to keep all these handy gadgets. A good hiking backpack will definitely be a higher-ticket item, so keep an eye out for sales, but if you have room in your gift budget, it’s the most useful camping tool there is.
The 10 Best Gifts for Campers
Well, there you have it! Those are the absolute best gifts for campers. If you have an outdoorsman in your life, any one of these gifts is sure to make you their favorite friend or family member this holiday season.
Just be sure to check with them, or someone they live with, to ensure that you aren’t buying any duplicates. And don’t feel like you have to spend a fortune! First aid kits and multi-tools, for example, are quite affordable. But if you have a bigger budget this year, consider a hiking backpack or a tent for your adventurous loved ones.
Do you have more shopping to do? Need more gift ideas? Check out our blog!
