Hiking Gift Guide: 8 Great Gifts for Hikers

Need a gift for the hiker in your life? This hand-picked list of 8 cool hiking gifts will help you nail that perfect birthday or holiday gift. From quick day hikes to all-day epics to backcountry treks, we’ve got something for every type of hiker on your list.

These gift ideas are designed to help outdoor explorers go far, enjoy the journey, and get there in style. Let’s dive right in and help you check this one off your shopping list.

A great pack is a must for anyone who enjoys backpacking, hiking, or camping. Arete™ 18 ticks all the boxes for a great companion on half-day to all-day excursions. It’s got room for all the essentials, a side stretch pocket for an extra water bottle, breathable mesh panels and straps (no sweaty backs here)! And of course, a secure zip pouch for phones. The inner stash pocket holds either a 1.5L Crux reservoir for hydration or a 15” laptop—van lifers, you’re welcome. It’s also easily compressible for storage in a larger pack.

For the hiker who always has to have the coolest new gear. The latest iteration of our signature hands-free hydration system, this 3-liter bad boy is leakproof and ready for the long haul. The backpacker in your life will appreciate this if they plan to tackle big challenges like a fourteener or thru-hike. It’s also great for weekend camping trips or all-day adventures. The Fusion™ 3L fits almost any hydration-compatible pack, thanks to the universal hanger.

For hikers who need a little extra hydration and all the comfort, there’s the Cloud Walker™ 18. This pack includes a massive 2.5L Crux reservoir for those super hot or dry hikes. With side compression straps, removable waist belt and built-in trekking pole holder, Cloud Walker is built for comfort in any terrain. And despite all the handy features, this pack still has a classic, sleek silhouette that will have them looking cool on the trail.

Eddy® + filtered by LifeStraw® is the easiest, most compact water filtration system on the planet—just stick the bottle in the water source and drink. LifeStraw does all the hard work of filtering out bacteria, chemicals, and other nasty particles. Perfect for multi-day or backcountry treks, international travel, or anywhere you might question your water source. Tritan™ Renew is BPA-free and contains 50% recycled plastic. So your hiker friend will thank you, and so will the environment.

Heads up! This LifeStraw bottle is also available in vacuum insulated stainless steel. 

This crossbody sling pack is perfect for shorter day hikes or a quick venture from the campsite. With just enough room for the map, snacks, and an extra layer, it’s a grab-n-go essential for any hiker. Don’t worry, we didn’t forget about the water. This super lightweight and versatile hiking pack comes with a .6L Tritan Renew bottle made with recycled plastic. Also compatible with 1.5L Crux reservoir for extra hydration. 

Every hiker loves a well-engineered piece of gear. This clever 2-in-1 combo serves as both a water bottle and detachable travel cup. Sure to please any outdoor enthusiast who’s all about efficiency, multi-tasking, and saving space in their bag. The insulated stainless steel MultiBev bottle is leakproof, sweatproof, slip and splash resistant, easy to carry, and fits in most cup holders. You'll probably want to grab one for yourself, while you’re at it.

You can file this one under “epic hiking gifts for her”. Built specifically for a woman’s frame, Helena™ 20 is compact and lightweight without sacrificing space. Whether it’s two miles or 10+, this pack will hold everything she needs from start to summit. With a load bearing waist belt and removable sternum strap to ensure maximum comfort. Includes a 2.5L Crux reservoir for go-anywhere hydration. Best of all, this women’s hiking pack is partially made with post-consumer recycled materials. 

A serious hike requires serious recovery. And the right nutrients can mean the difference between waking up in tip-top shape or feeling not-so-great the next day. THRIVE Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA) recovery formula helps hikers bounce back faster and come back stronger after a long hike. Formulated with the critical BCAAs leucine, valine and isoleucine, plus glutamine to support the repair and building of lean muscle and reduce soreness. Just mix one scoop in water and go.

Read more about the benefits of BCAAs for post-workout and muscle recovery. 

Looking for more gift ideas for outdoor adventurers and athletes? Check out these related gift guides:

-Gifts for Runners

-Gifts for Mountain Bikers

-Camping Gifts