We’ve put together some great holiday gifts for that backpacker in your life (or…for yourself). Each one of these picks have been tested and recommended by us and thru-hikers in our community. Big thanks to Snickers, Calzone, Jukebox, Magneto, Wake N Bake, Stevie G. Wonder, Becca, Christine, Britt, and Nikki for your expert recommendations.

Enjoy and happy holidays!

By using the links below, some companies allow us a small commission (at no cost to you). We thank you for supporting THRU-r by using these links so we can reinvest in our long-distance hiking community. Yes, big things are coming.

FOOT CARE

 

SOCKS

We love Darn Tough (mens/womens) and Injinji.

CROCS

Great if you need a break from your shoes…and lightweight enough to be camp shoes if that’s your thing.

LEUKOTAPE

Taping blister-prone spots on our feet before hiking kept our feet (mostly) functional.

FOOD PREPARATION

 

JET BOIL MINI MO

A mini cooking system that packs a punch.

TOAKS TITANIUM LONG-HAND SPORK

Using a standard spork doesn’t cut it when eating from those deeper backpacking meal bags. Go for this longer-handled option to skip the annoyance. The titanium material won’t add much weight and will save on the mess.

SAWYER SQUEEZE

The standard lightweight water filtration choice for long distance hikers.

BULK FOOD (RESUPPLY FAVORITES)

 

STROOPWAFELS

One of the most worthy on-trail snacks.

BULK INSTANT OATMEAL MULTI-PACK

A breakfast mainstay that we (surprisingly) didn’t get sick of thanks to the flavor variety.

“RAM BOMB” KIT

Ramen + instant mashed potatoes + buffalo chicken = The “Premo” Ramen Bomb.

GEAR UP

 

BUFF/BANDANA

One of the most versatile additions to any backpacking system: A buff and/or bandana.

TENACIOUS TAPE

Patch your tent, puffy, sleeping bag, or other fabric-like material.

MSR MINI GROUNDHOG STAKES

A level-up from your standard tent stakes.

TECH & SAFETY

NITECORE NU25 HEADLAMP

Lightweight, dependable, and can be charged using a portable charger.

GUTHOOK GUIDE

An extremely helpful navigation app for many long-distance trails.

GARMIN INREACH MINI

Stay connected and give friends and family (and yourself) peace of mind by carrying this device during outdoor activities.

HYGIENE STUFF

 

“THE DEUCE OF SPADES” TROWEL

THE trowel to use on a long-distance hike. Its effectiveness and weight (or lack thereof) makes it a thru-hiker favorite for a reason.

KULA CLOTH

A quick drying, anti-microbial, and discreet “pee rag” option.

MINI EYE DROPPER BOTTLES

Travel size is always a good idea.

HOME GOODS (THAT REMIND US OF TRAIL)

 

DIRTBAG CERAMICS

These functional ceramic pieces are inspired by hiking in wild places. The “River Crossing” and “Snowy Switchbacks” designs are reminiscent of hiking the Sierra section of the Pacific Crest Trail.

KONEN CREATIONS

Artist Christine Konen explores the relationship between nature and light with her Sunshine Mountain Series and her Oak “Baby Log” Series.

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST: SOME LAUGHS

BEAR CREEK CROSSING LIFE INSURANCE

We’re kidding…kind of.

PRE-ROLLED JOINTS

Sorry guys, we don’t have a link for this one!

HELICOPTER INSURANCE

Also kidding…sort of.

Backpacking gear is extremely personal so if you are giving; make sure to include a gift receipt in case things don’t quite fit, are duplicate pieces of gear for your recipient, etc.
Happy Hiking & Happy Holidays!
– The THRU-r Community