The Best Editor-Recommended Gifts for Backpackers

Backpacking is a gear-heavy activity: Beyond the obvious tent, backpack, and footwear, there are the overnight essentials—sleeping pad, bag, pillow—and countless small but crucial items like a water filter, hiking socks, and layers. The upside? Endless gift opportunities for the backpacker in your life. While the list below isn’t a comprehensive checklist of everything they need to hit the trail, it is a curated selection of the items I personally rely on to stay comfortable, safe, and happy in the backcountry. I’ve been backpacking my whole life and have endured my fair share of blisters, cold nights, and aches and pains, but I’ve finally dialed in the gear that makes my trips genuinely enjoyable. You’ll find ideas here for beginners and seasoned hikers alike—from stocking stuffers to splurges, safety essentials to fun and stylish extras. And if your hiker dabbles in other outdoor pursuits, we’ve got gift guides for car campers, trail runners, and day hikers, too.
 

The Ultimate Camp Shoe ($50)

There’s no doubt that Croc’s Classic Clog has made a comeback in recent years, and they’ve managed to secure themselves as a backpacking staple as well. A camp shoe is one of those creature comforts that most backpackers I know are willing to carry the extra weight for, and the Classic Clog is as good as they come. Not only are they lightweight (mine weigh 10.7 oz. for a size women’s 9), but they’re easy to strap to the outside of a pack. The wide toe box offers lots of room for swollen digits and thick socks, and the lightly textured sole feels heavenly on bare feet. They even pull double duty as water shoes or—as I learned the hard way—as a backup hiker when your hiking boots fail (the outsole is surprisingly grippy). A final plus: They’re offered in a wide range of colors, making it easy to find your giftee’s favorite. 
See the Croc's Classic Clog
 

A Luxury Backpacking Meal ($18-$20)

As managing editor of our backpacking meals round-up, I fancy myself a backcountry culinary critic. I’ve sampled many dehydrated meals in my time, but Stowaway Gourmet has quickly risen to the top of my list. The key difference between Stowaway and most other brands is that Stowaway freezes its ingredients, which better preserves the food’s structure and nutritional value. Simply put, it actually looks and tastes like real food. I cooked up their Jambalaya with Shrimp on a recent backpacking trip and was surprised by how real the shrimp looked. Plus, the flavor was just right: Neither over- nor under-seasoned. To be fair, freeze-dried meals are generally more expensive and don’t pack down as small as traditional dehydrated meals, but if you’re shopping for a foodie, you really can’t go wrong with Stowaway’s offerings. 
Shop Stowaway Gourmet Backpacking Meals
 

All-in-One Backpacking Stove ($150)

Jetboil’s Flash 1.0L stove is one of the most popular backpacking stoves available, and for good reason. Not only does the integrated design include both the stove and a pot, but the two also lock together when in use, creating a wind-blocking, fuel-efficient system. The heat-exchange pot is a standout feature, delivering impressively fast boil times even at higher elevations. And the turn-and-click ignitor (which is reminiscent of a home stove) is intuitive and safe to use. Put together, the Flash 1.0L is a great choice for beginner backpackers building their kit. It’s not the lightest weight or most minimalist option available, but it’s well-built and reliable in a range of conditions. Plus, the stove and fuel canister nest inside the pot for easy storage. 
See the Jetboil Flash
 

Extendable and Stackable Utensils ($17)

To complete your backpacking meal kit, you’ll need utensils, and my runaway favorite is Jetboil’s Trailware Utensil Set. This set comes with a fork, spoon, and knife that stack together when not in use. Both the fork and the spoon extend, making it easy to dig deep into dehydrated meals without getting your hands messy. The spoon also features a silicone edge, which not only protects your pots from scratches but also spares you the nails-on-chalkboard sound of titanium scraping titanium (a personal pet peeve). Together, the kit weighs just an ounce and a half, though I leave the knife at home most of the time. In my opinion, this is the perfect stocking stuffer and pairs well with the Flash 1L Stove or a Stowaway meal above. 
See the Jetboil Trailware Utensil Set
 

A Backpacking Backpack for Beginners ($180)

If your giftee is brand new to the sport, you can start them off right with a proper backpack. While most high-end designs will run you a premium, REI’s Trailmade 60 Pack (also available in a women’s-specific fit) is a budget alternative that doesn’t skimp on the necessary features. In fact, this pack has become one of my go-to packs for its organization, capacity, and comfort. 60 liters is a good place to start for most long weekends, and the Trailmade has a plethora of pockets for easy gear organization, including water bottle pockets, brain storage, and a dedicated sleeping bag pocket. The mesh backpanel and hipbelts are comfortable, and the backpanel is adjustable, so your giftee can dial in their proper fit. While it does come with a few compromises (namely, a lack of waterproofing), I think it’s a great choice for those just dipping their toes into the sport. To learn more, read my in-depth review of the pack. 
See the REI Trailmade 60 Pack
 

A Smarter Water Bottle ($13)

SmartWater bottles have long been a favorite among ultralight backpackers for their minimal weight, but Cnoc’s ThruBottle offers a similar experience in a reusable, more durable package. Mine weighs a scant 3.2 ounces, which is half the weight of my wide-mouth Nalgene. It slides effortlessly in my backpack’s side water bottle pocket (in larger pockets, I can fit two), and the tall, slender profile makes it easy to grab without removing your pack. The ThruBottle is also compatible with many water filters, such as the Platypus Quickdraw shown below. There aren’t many bells and whistles, but it does come with fluid-ounce and milliliter measurements on the side, which can be helpful for backcountry cooking. 
See the Cnoc ThruBottle
 

A Versatile Squeeze Water Filter ($55)

Hikers headed out into the backcountry for more than a day will need a reliable water filter, and my go-to has been Platypus’s QuickDraw Filter System for the last few years. These compact filters come with a 1-liter dirty water bag (labeled, nonetheless) with a plastic loop at the opening that makes it easy to gather water without drenching your hands. The filter itself screws right into the bag and, in my experience, filters more quickly and reliably than most squeeze filters. It also includes an attachment that makes it compatible with narrow-mouth water bottles like the Cnoc ThruBottle above. I appreciate that the water bag has a lid, allowing it to double as extra water storage at camp. And when it’s time to hike out, the filter can be rolled into the bag for tight storage (it's best secured with a hair tie or rubber band). 
See the Platypus QuickDraw Filter System
 

The Coziest Fleece There Is ($180)

Fleece jackets offer a nice dose of comfort and warmth on the trail, and the Arc’teryx Kyanite Jacket (available for women, too) is my personal favorite. Versatility is one of its best attributes: I wear it both around chilly campsites and during early morning starts. The fleece traps warmth when you need it, but breathes surprisingly well when you're moving. The interior fleece is incredibly soft and wicks sweat effectively, while the sleek nylon face fabric offers a little bit of wind resistance. There’s no doubt that the Kyanite is expensive, but durability, fit, and finishing details are premium. Not only is it a great piece for the backcountry, but it also adapts seamlessly to casual use. To learn more, check out my in-depth review of the Kyanite. 
See the Arc'teryx Kyanite Jacket
 

Reusable Pee Cloth ($20)

There are many reasons to opt for a pee cloth over toilet paper, including less waste, less weight to pack out, and long-term savings. My Kula Cloth joins me on every backpacking trip, as well as most hikes, fishing outings, and bike rides. The fabric is antimicrobial and silver-infused, which means it can be used multiple times without worry of infection, and when it’s time to clean it, you can simply toss it into your wash. It's designed to hide stains, and the fun patterns make it a surprisingly cheerful accessory to hang on your pack. Plus, the snaps make it easy to fold and attach the cloth to gear loops or compression straps. Simple as it is, this little cloth has been a complete game-changer for my comfort outdoors. 
See the Kula Cloth
 

A Multiuse Backpacking Chair ($65)

Most of the time, I find it hard to justify the weight of a backpacking chair, but Crazy Creek’s Hex 2.0 has been a staple of my kit of late. Not only does it provide campside comfort (I especially love having some back support after hauling a heavy pack all day), but it pulls double duty as an insulated pad. You can slide it under an inflatable sleeping pad for extra warmth, or use it as a pad for your dog, which is how I’ve been using it lately. The webbing straps are a breeze to adjust while sitting in the chair, but they also compress the chair into a tight roll that can be strapped to the outside of a backpack. Durability is on point, too, and despite the dog nails, rocks, and bush-whacking mine has endured, it has no wear to show for it. It also makes for a great companion for outdoor concerts, football games, and park lounging. 
See the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0
 

A Little Shell Goes a Long Way ($145)

Backpackers are always looking for ways to maximize comfort and performance while minimizing weight, and a windbreaker jacket is a great way to do so. My favorite at the moment is Outdoor Research’s Deviator Wind Jacket, which is incredibly lightweight (5.3 oz. for the men’s; 4.5 oz. for the women’s) but offers great protection from the wind. It’s a great layer to toss on when hitting the trails in the morning, but it also provides great protection on gusty ridges or lakeside trails. The perforated back fabric works great with a pack, offering just a touch of breathability to the high-sweat area. And the design comes with two hand pockets and a chest pocket for warming hands or storing small gear. And when not in use, the Deviator is easy to stuff in an external stuff pocket. I find it layers really well with the Arc’teryx Kyanite Jack above, offering a bit more wind resistance to the fleece’s warmth. 
See the Outdoor Research Deviator Wind Jacket
 

Electrolytes With Good Flavor ($7.50)

Electrolytes are a game-changer, especially for backpackers who are pushing their bodies to the limit. Nuun’s Sport Hydration Tablets are my favorite for several reasons. Not only are all of the flavors tasty (my favorites are grape and watermelon), but they’re low sugar and use all-natural ingredients. The plastic tube easily slides into a hipbelt pocket and holds up to 10 tablets. I usually treat myself to a liter of water with Nuun in the evenings to replenish my body and boost my hydration before bed, which makes for a headache-free morning (Nuun doesn’t contain caffeine). These are great stocking stuffers and can be bought in a mixed-flavor pack that includes three tubes.  
See the Nuun Sport Hydration Tablets
 

Yes, Wool Undies ($33-$50)

Truth be told, I’ve become a die-hard wool lover of late, especially when it comes to backcountry travel. I’ll dress head to toe in wool, including my undies, which I recommend from WoolX. There are a lot of benefits to wearing wool in the nether regions: It’s quick-drying, breathable, odor-resistant, and antimicrobial. And forget the itchy wool sweaters you’ve worn in the past; WoolX’s undies are extremely soft against the skin. Mine have also held up well to consistent use (WoolX spins their merino around durable nylon fibers), making them well worth the hefty price tag. It’s worth taking the time to look through WoolX’s line, which offers a range of styles for both men and women. 
See the WoolX Merino Underwear Collection
 

The Best Merino Sunhoody ($145)

While we’re on the topic of wool, I’d be remiss not to mention my favorite sun protection shirt, the Ibex Springbok Sun Hoodie (available in women’s, too). This shirt has everything I look for in an ideal trail shirt: UPF 35+ protection, a light hood, a breathable build, and all the benefits of merino—it’s quick-drying, odor-resistant, and soft. Mine has held up well over many days on the trail, with only light pilling to show for it. I also wear it often around town; the cut is really flattering, it’s offered in several classy solid colors, and the button collar adds a nice touch of style. Every backpacker needs a shirt they can really rely on, something that’s both protective and cozy (and looks good, too), and in my opinion, the Springbox delivers this in spades. 
See the Ibex Springbok Sun Hoodie
 

My Go-To Blister Tape ($13)

If your giftee is prone to blisters like I am, one of the best things they can do is pre-tape their feet before heading out in new shoes or long-distance hikes. In my experience, Leukotape offers the best hold and protection. It’s incredibly sticky and won’t rub off when your feet start to sweat or get wet. The heat-activated adhesive will stay stuck for a long time, especially if you take the time to heat it up with your hand when you apply it. I always pack a small amount in my first aid kit in case a blister starts to form. And its applications don’t end there: It can also be used to wrap injuries such as sprains, or come in clutch if you need an emergency patch. It definitely isn’t the most glamorous gift, but any dedicated backpacker understands the pain of dealing with blisters on the trail. 
See the Leukotape Medical Tape
 

Soft and Breathable Hiking Sock ($29)

Finding the right pair of hiking socks is also a must for preventing blisters on the trail, and my favorites of late have been Courier’s LoFi sock. These socks feature cushioning along the forefoot, arch, and heel that helps protect against blisters and fatigue. They’re also perforated in high-sweat areas, which helps keep the skin dry (another important way to prevent blisters!). The shin-high cut fits perfectly under a pair of hiking boots and won’t slip down. Even after lots of miles on the trail and plenty of trips through the washer, mine have remained soft and wear-free. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, their HiFi socks are much thinner but still offer targeted cushioning where you need it most. Though not the cheapest socks you can find, I’m a firm believer that backpackers should never skimp on their foot protection, and investing in proper socks is the best way to stay blister-free. 
See the Courier LoFi Sock
 

Comfortable and Flattering Hiking Pants ($169)

It’s tough to gift apparel—especially pants—but if you’re going to buy a pair of hiking pants for your favorite backpacker, the Stio Pinedale Pants (also sold in women’s) are a safe bet. These pants are among the most comfortable I’ve worn to date, thanks to their supple, stretchy fabric. I’ve been known to do my morning pre-hike stretches donning these pants. They fit perfectly, too: Not too baggy, not too tight, and the integrated belt is great for dialing them in. The fabric is treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating, which sheds light moisture. Pockets are well-assorted with both front and back zippered pockets, and they come in a range of flattering colors. I came away very impressed with these pants after wearing them on a recent backpacking trip in the Kananaskis wilderness, and I’ll recommend them to anyone looking for versatility and comfort. 
See the Stio Pinedale Pants
 

A Dashing Trail Cap ($48)

I never head out on a backpacking trip without a hat, and Skida’s Original Brim Hat is my favorite of all time. Originally designed for skiers, these 5-panel hats offer more coverage than your average baseball cap—the wide, long brim protects your whole face from the sun. They’re also very breathable, water-resistant, and lightweight, making them a comfortable all-day wear. Though a bit on the pricey end, they’re incredibly well-made, and are sure to last many seasons of consistent use. The cherry on top is the plethora of pattern options you can choose from: Skida offers everything from cow print to floral patterns, as well as collaborative patterns with artists and organizations. And if you’re willing to spend a bit more, you can buy a matching buff, beanie, or dog bandana. 
See the Skida Original Brim Hat
 

The Ultimate Camp Coat ($450)

As someone who runs cold, staying comfortable at camp can be tough. For shoulder season or even winter camping, Patagonia’s Das Parka (available for women, too) is my go-to insulated jacket. This jacket is equipped with a generous dose of synthetic insulation—which, over down insulation, continues to insulate when wet—and reinforced with a wind and water-resistant shell. It’s lightweight, too, weighing just over a pound for both gendered fits. It packs down into a stuff sack, but I’ve also had luck shoving it loose between the other gear in my pack. I’ve also had luck wearing it while belaying at the crag: The two-way zipper makes it easy to access a belay device on a harness. The thin shell fabric definitely requires care (mine is riddled with patches), but the build quality matches the price. It fits well, packs easily, and, most importantly, provides great protection from the cold. 
See the Patagonia Das Parka
 

Durable Dog Harness ($65)

If your giftee has a dog they like to take on the trail (or is a dog), it’s worth considering Ruffwear’s Flagline Dog Harness. This harness is very easy to adjust and won’t come loose, no matter what off-trail bushwhacking your dog gets into. Durability is on point, too: my springer spaniel has put hers through the wringer, and it shows no wear. I like that there are multiple attachment loops and a nifty handle at the top of the harness, which has come in handy for more technical scrambles and deep water crossings. I also prefer a harness over a collar so I can keep a tight leash on my dog without harming her (she gets a little too excited about ground squirrels). Ruffwear also has great options for leashes, booties, and rain jackets. I also love the Vert insulated jacket for keeping my dog cozy at cold camps. 
See the Ruffwear Flagline Dog Harness
 

A Sleeping Pad for Two ($320)

Buying a two-person sleeping pad was the best upgrade my husband and I have ever made. We invested in the Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated Pad at the start of spring, and we haven’t gone back to our single pads since. Not only does this pad save us weight (our two pads weighed more together than the Rapide), but we no longer fall victim to the dreaded void between our pads at night—we’re warmer and more comfortable for it. The Rapide’s quilted baffling is comfortable for both side and back sleepers, too. In our experience, it’s warm enough for snow camping, and we’ve certainly pushed it past its 3-season warmth rating (4.8 R-value). It’s durable, well-built, and big enough for both my husband and me to spread out. For couples looking to up their backpacking game, the Rapide is a no-brainer. 
See the Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated Pad