Finding genuinely useful gifts for hikers can be surprisingly difficult. Most walkers already have strong opinions about their kit, while novelty presents often end up forgotten at the back of a cupboard.
This guide brings together practical, thoughtful gifts for hikers that can actually earn a place in their backpack, car or post-walk routine. There are ideas for different budgets, from warm layers and insulated drinkware to waterproof bags, outdoor accessories and a few comforts for slower evenings after a long day on the trail.
Whether you are shopping for an experienced hillwalker, a weekend rambler or someone only just beginning to spend more time outdoors, these are gifts designed to make their next adventure a little warmer, easier or more enjoyable.
Includes gifted products, but we only recommend what we would purchase for ourselves after reviewing.
Practical gifts for any hiker
The best hiking gifts tend to be the things that make time outdoors warmer, easier or more enjoyable. This section includes useful ideas for all kinds of walkers, from everyday essentials to a few thoughtful comforts for after the trail.
Fjällräven 1960 Logo Hat
A warm hat is one of those hiking gifts that looks simple but gets used constantly, both on the trail and in everyday life. The Fjällräven 1960 Logo Hat is made from soft lambswool with a double-layered rib-knit construction that helps hold in warmth on cold mornings, exposed ridges and winter walks. The wide folded cuff gives it a snug, comfortable fit, while the embroidered Fjällräven logo adds a classic outdoor feel without making the design look overly technical. It is lightweight enough to tuck into a backpack pocket when the temperature rises, so it can stay close at hand throughout the day. With its unisex shape and understated colour options, it makes an easy gift for hikers, campers and anyone who spends a lot of time outside. It is also the kind of practical accessory that works just as well for dog walks, commuting and cold weekends away.
AeroPress Go Plus
For hikers and campers who care about good coffee, the AeroPress Go Plus offers a much more satisfying option than relying on instant sachets at the trailhead. The compact travel system packs neatly inside its own double-wall insulated stainless-steel tumbler, including the coffee maker, scoop, stirrer and space for paper filters. It can be used to make standard coffee, espresso-style drinks, iced coffee or cold brew, giving it more flexibility than most portable coffee makers. Brewing is quick, and the simple design also makes it relatively easy to clean when access to running water is limited. The insulated tumbler helps keep drinks warm once brewed and fits into most standard cup holders, making it useful for camping, road trips and early morning drives to the start of a walk. It feels like a particularly good gift for someone who enjoys turning a quick coffee stop into part of the outdoor experience rather than simply drinking whatever is easiest.
Red Original waterproof backpack
The RED Adventure Waterproof Backpack 30L is a substantial gift for hikers who are regularly out in wet, muddy or exposed conditions. Its roll-top construction and impermeable Armour Tech fabric create a fully waterproof main compartment, while the recycled nylon outer is designed to resist scuffs, punctures and abrasion. The 30-litre capacity offers enough room for layers, food and everyday hiking equipment, supported by stretch-mesh external pockets for items that need to stay accessible. Inside, there is a padded laptop sleeve and a separate watertight stash pocket, making it useful for commuting and travel as well as outdoor adventures. An integrated emergency whistle adds a small but sensible safety feature. It is more robust than a lightweight hiking pack, but that durability makes it particularly useful for year-round British weather and waterside trips.
RED Original Pro Change Robe EVO
The RED Original Pro Change Robe EVO is a practical gift for hikers, wild swimmers and anyone who regularly finishes an adventure cold, wet or muddy. Its oversized fit provides enough room to change underneath, while the waterproof and breathable outer helps protect against rain and wind. Inside, a deep-pile moisture-wicking fleece lining adds warmth and helps dry the wearer after swimming or getting caught in bad weather. Adjustable cuffs, a wind-baffled two-way zip and a toggled hood offer extra protection when conditions turn, while several pockets provide space for valuables and cold hands. It is inevitably bulkier than a normal waterproof jacket, but for exposed walks, camping trips and chilly days by the water, it is a particularly comforting piece of kit to have waiting.
Kambukka Thermal Mug
The Kambukka Thermal Mug is a useful gift for hikers who like to bring coffee or tea along for the journey. Its double-walled vacuum-insulated stainless-steel construction helps maintain the temperature of drinks, while the leak-proof lid means it can be packed into a day bag without the usual worry about spills. The three-position lid can be pressed for one-handed sipping, opened for drinking like a normal cup or fully closed for travelling. A non-slip base helps it stay steady during rest stops, and the compact shape fits into most standard cup holders for early drives to the trailhead. The removable Snapclean mechanism makes the lid easier to clean thoroughly after regular use, helping this feel like an everyday travel mug rather than something reserved only for occasional walks.
Red Original Water Pouch
The RED Original Waterproof Dry Pouch is a compact but reassuring gift for anyone who carries a phone, keys or other valuables in unpredictable conditions. Its 1.3-litre interior is completely watertight, using welded seams and a YKK AQUASEAL zip to protect the contents from rain, dirt, sand and accidental immersion. A removable high-impact foam insert adds protection from knocks and drops, which is particularly useful for electronics. The dual strap and daisy-chain system allows the pouch to be attached to a backpack, belt, bike or paddleboard rather than buried at the bottom of a larger bag. It is most obviously useful for paddleboarding and kayaking, but it also makes sense for wet-weather hikes, camping trips or simply keeping important items separate and protected inside a walking backpack.
LifeStraw Water Filter bottle
The LifeStraw Go Series Water Filter Bottle is a thoughtful gift for hikers, travellers and campers who want greater reassurance about the water they drink while away from home. Its two-stage system combines a membrane microfilter, which filters bacteria, parasites and microplastics, with an activated carbon filter that helps reduce chlorine, odours and unpleasant tastes. The 650ml bottle has a leak-resistant mouthpiece and carry handle, and its BPA-free construction keeps it practical for everyday walks as well as longer trips. Replacement filters are available, so the bottle can continue being used rather than treated as disposable equipment. It is still important to understand the water source and the limits of any filtration system, but this provides a compact option for back-up hydration, overseas travel and outdoor routes where reliable tap water may not always be close by.
Gifts for young hikers and outdoor families
Family adventures often need a little more planning, but the right clothing and kit can make getting outdoors together feel much easier. These gift ideas are designed for younger walkers and families who enjoy exploring as a group.
PO.P Kids’ Fleeces & Jackets
PO.P is one of the brands we regularly recommend for practical children’s outdoor layers, and its fleeces make a lovely gift for little hikers. We tested the soft pile fleece jacket, which added warmth without feeling too heavy or restrictive for walking, climbing and outdoor play. It worked well as a standalone jacket in mild weather and as a cosy mid-layer beneath a waterproof coat when conditions turned colder. Thoughtful details such as the quality zip, internal storm guard and chin protection made it comfortable for everyday wear, while the durable design feels well suited to being passed down once it has been outgrown. Colours and styles vary throughout the year, but PO.P’s fleece range is a good place to look for versatile layers that can be worn for family walks, nursery days and everyday adventures.
Thermos Icon Spout Stainless-Steel Bottle
A reliable reusable water bottle is always a useful gift for hikers, particularly when it is designed to cope with long days outdoors. The 710ml Thermos Icon Spout Bottle uses double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours, making it suitable for warm-weather walks, gym sessions and full days of travelling. The covered flip spout keeps the drinking area protected from dirt between uses, while the leak-proof lid makes it safer to carry inside or alongside a backpack. An integrated carry loop makes it easy to pick up or attach to other gear, and the non-slip base helps prevent it from sliding or being knocked over during breaks. It is also dishwasher safe, which is useful after muddy trips or when it has been used regularly. With its durable stainless-steel construction and practical size, it is the sort of gift that can become part of someone’s everyday kit rather than being saved only for occasional hikes.
Thule Sapling backpack carrier
The Thule Sapling is a generous gift for outdoorsy parents who want to keep exploring once a pushchair is no longer practical for the route. Its adjustable torso and padded hip belt help distribute the weight comfortably, while Thule’s ErgoRide child seat supports beneath a child’s legs rather than leaving them dangling. Daisy had a clear view over my shoulder and seemed comfortable enough to spend our first rainy woodland walk reaching for trees and trying to catch raindrops. The carrier also has a ventilated back panel, built-in UPF 50 sunshade and a 22-litre gear compartment for nappies, spare clothes, snacks and family hiking essentials. The child seat and drool pad can be removed and machine washed, which feels particularly useful after muddy adventures. It is a substantial investment, but one that could open up far more routes and outdoor days for an active family.
Great British Outdoors Map
The Great British Outdoors Scratch Map is a fun gift for hikers who enjoy collecting destinations almost as much as exploring them. It brings together more than 100 scenic places around Britain, including national parks, areas of natural beauty and memorable outdoor landmarks, with sections that can be scratched away after each visit. Rather than being purely decorative, it can provide inspiration for future weekends and make it easier to see which parts of the country are still waiting to be explored. It is especially suited to walkers who love creating informal challenges without committing to one particular hill-bagging list. Framed on a wall, it also becomes a personal record of past trips and shared adventures, making it a more meaningful present for couples, families or anyone gradually working their way around Britain’s outdoor spaces.
Cotton Juniper Blanket
The tentree Cotton Juniper Blanket is a cosy gift for campers, van travellers and hikers who enjoy the slower moments surrounding an outdoor trip. Made from organic cotton, it has a bold nature-inspired tree design that feels equally at home folded inside a campervan, spread over a picnic bench or kept on the sofa for recovering after a long walk. Unlike a technical insulated camping blanket, this is more suited to relaxed evenings, cool mornings and dry-weather use than carrying deep into the hills. Its attractive design also means it can stay on display between adventures rather than being hidden away with the rest of the camping gear. Each tentree item also supports the brand’s tree-planting programme, adding another thoughtful element for a recipient who cares about the landscapes they spend time exploring.
QUECHUA kids’ 15 L backpack
The QUECHUA Kids’ 15L NH900 Backpack gives young hikers enough space to carry some of their own essentials without handing them an oversized adult rucksack. Designed for children aged seven to fifteen, it has padded shoulder straps, a cushioned back and an adjustable chest strap to help keep everything comfortably in place. The large zip is easy for children to operate independently, while the main compartment has room for a spare layer, lunch and other walking essentials. A front buckled pocket keeps smaller belongings accessible, and the two side pockets are handy for water bottles or anything collected along the trail. At around 430–450g, it is light enough for everyday adventures and can also double as a practical school or day-trip bag. It is not waterproof and does not include a rain cover, so valuables will still need protecting during wet-weather walks.
Gifts for women who love hiking
Shopping for a woman who loves hiking doesn’t have to mean buying novelty outdoor gifts. These are practical clothing, accessories and pieces of kit designed to be worn and used on real adventures.
ACAI Skinny Outdoor Trousers
The ACAI MAX Stretch Skinny Outdoor Trousers are a practical gift for women who want outdoor clothing that feels technical without looking overly bulky. They have the close fit of skinny jeans but are made from lightweight, four-way-stretch softshell fabric, allowing plenty of movement for hiking, dog walking and other everyday adventures. The material is breathable, moisture-wicking and snag-resistant, with a shower-resistant finish that handles light rain and dries quickly after heavier showers. A high waistband and shaped legs create a secure, flattering fit while still leaving room to bend, climb and move comfortably. They are not a replacement for waterproof overt rousers in prolonged rain, but their versatility makes them useful for changeable days when traditional walking trousers can feel too heavy or technical. They also work well for travelling or heading somewhere casual after a walk
Women’s OOahh PLUS Slide Sandal
The OOFOS Women’s OOahh PLUS Slide Sandal is a thoughtful gift for hikers who appreciate having something comfortable to change into once the walking boots come off. Designed as recovery footwear, it uses the brand’s cushioned OOfoam technology to absorb impact and reduce stress through the feet and joints. The PLUS version has additional foam beneath the foot, alongside a wider strap, raised heel cup and sculpted arch support for a more secure and stable feel. The neutral Driftwood shade makes these easy to wear beyond the trail, whether relaxing at home, travelling or recovering between active days.
Decathlon Dry bag with window
The Decathlon Dry Bag with Visibility Window is a simple but genuinely useful gift for anyone who regularly hikes, camps or spends time near the water. Its five-litre capacity is well suited to smaller essentials such as a phone, purse, keys, snacks or a spare base layer, while the transparent panel makes it easy to find what is inside without unpacking everything. The roll-top closure and IPX6 rating help protect the contents from heavy splashes and rain, and the carry strap makes it easy to use separately or place inside a larger hiking backpack. It is important to note that the bag is splash-proof rather than designed for full immersion, and Decathlon recommends adding a separate IPX8 pouch for electronics or important documents. For wet British walks, paddleboarding trips or keeping dry clothes separate from damp kit, it is an affordable gift that could be used far more often than expected.
Falke TK2 Explore Long Women Trekking Knee High Socks
Good hiking socks are rarely the most exciting present to unwrap, but they can make a noticeable difference once someone is several miles into a walk. The FALKE TK2 Explore Long Women Trekking Knee-High Socks combine medium cushioning with a merino wool blend and a three-layer moisture-wicking construction designed to keep feet comfortable across changing temperatures. Their knee-high length provides extra coverage beneath taller walking boots, while light compression supports the lower leg and helps reduce movement and slipping during longer routes. The left- and right-specific shape gives a closer fit around each foot, helping limit friction and pressure points. They are designed as an all-season option for hills, mountain terrain and longer walking days rather than only cold winter hikes. These would make a thoughtful gift for a regular walker, particularly someone who already owns the obvious outdoor kit but would appreciate an upgrade to an everyday essential.
Gifts for men who love hiking
From dependable layers to useful outdoor accessories, these hiking gifts for men are suited to weekend walks, longer days in the hills and everyday time spent outside.
TOG24 Miles Men’s Relaxed-Fit Microfleece Jacket
The TOG24 Miles Men’s Microfleece is a useful everyday layer for walking, travelling and spending time outdoors. Its lightweight fleece fabric provides warmth without adding too much bulk, so it can be worn alone during mild conditions or layered comfortably beneath a waterproof jacket when the weather changes. The relaxed fit makes it easy to move in, while the full-length zip allows the wearer to adjust ventilation as they warm up on steeper sections of a walk. Elasticated binding around the collar, cuffs and hem helps keep the fit neat and retain warmth without making the jacket feel restrictive. It also includes two lower pockets and a contrasting zipped chest pocket for keeping small essentials close to hand. This is a sensible gift for someone who prefers practical outdoor clothing they can also wear day to day, whether they are heading out for a weekend hike, walking the dog or packing for a cooler-weather trip.
Hanwag Cabin Loafer
After spending hours in stiff walking boots, slipping into something soft and warm can feel like a small luxury. The Hanwag Cabin Loafers are cosy unisex hut shoes handmade in Tyrol using seamless boiled wool, which helps regulate warmth and moisture while remaining comfortable against the feet. Their flexible natural latex sole is waterproof and slip-resistant, making them suitable for moving around mountain huts, campsites, glamping accommodation or chilly holiday cottages without needing to put heavy boots back on. They are also compact enough to pack for longer walking trips where comfort at the end of the day matters. The understated design means they do not feel limited to outdoor use, either, and they work just as well as warm slippers at home. These would make a thoughtful gift for walkers who already own all the obvious hiking gear but would appreciate something designed for the quieter, more comfortable part of the adventure.
Helly Hansen Odin Stretch Hood Insulator 2.0
The Helly Hansen Odin Stretch Hood Insulator 2.0 is a versatile insulated jacket for hikers who want warmth without feeling restricted as they move. PrimaLoft Gold Active insulation provides lightweight warmth, while the breathable ripstop outer and two-way stretch panels make it suitable for active days in the mountains. It can be worn on its own in cool, dry conditions or layered beneath a waterproof shell when the weather becomes more challenging. Practical details include an elasticated hood, adjustable hem, articulated elbows and zipped chest and hand pockets for small essentials. A durable water-repellent treatment adds some protection from passing showers, although this is primarily an insulated mid-layer rather than a fully waterproof jacket. It is a generous gift for someone who hikes, skis or spends time outdoors throughout the colder months.
Solar Power Bank 20000mAh – Portable Solar Charger
The Terrabound 20,000mAh Solar Power Bank is a practical gift for hikers, campers and travellers who regularly spend long periods away from a plug socket. Its large-capacity battery is designed to provide several charges for phones, GPS units and other USB devices, while dual USB ports allow two pieces of kit to charge at the same time. The rugged outer has reinforced, rubberised corners to help it cope with being carried outdoors, and a carabiner makes it easy to attach to the outside of a backpack. There is also an integrated LED torch for an additional source of light around camp. The built-in solar panel is best viewed as an emergency top-up rather than a replacement for charging the power bank fully before leaving home, but it adds some reassurance during multi-day trips. It is a useful piece of backup kit for navigation, photography and keeping a phone available when needed.
