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!
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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.