Must-Have Camping Gifts for the Modern Outdoor Explorer
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Explore the great outdoors with the best camping and hiking gear! Discover must-have camping gifts for the modern outdoor enthusiast in this comprehensive gift guide.
Are you an avid outdoor enthusiast who loves to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature? Or perhaps you know someone who lives for camping and hiking adventures? Look no further, because I have compiled a list of must-have camping gifts for the modern outdoor explorer. From innovative gadgets to practical gear, these items will make any camping experience more enjoyable and convenient. Whether you're embarking on a solo expedition or planning a family camping trip, these gifts are sure to delight any nature lover and enhance their outdoor adventures in the most modern and remarkable ways.
Must-Have Gifts for Camping & Hiking
Click to jump to any of the following categories or scroll through to see all of the gift ideas for camping and hiking enthusiasts!
Gadgets & Tools / Sleeping & Seating / Camp Kitchen / Wearable / Books & Games / For Kids
Gadgets & Tools
2-Pack Portable Outdoor LED Lantern
Built with 30 high-intensity LED bulbs, this lantern has full omnidirectional lighting, which means a whole 360 of ultra-bright light! This premium lantern is constructed of durable, military-grade plastic, making it extra tough. Its innovative collapsible design makes using and transporting it so convenient! This lantern is designed to provide more light while consuming less energy. With just one single set of AA batteries, it can provide a full 72 hours of non-stop, continuous, ultra-bright light.
Barebones Edison Light Stick
This is a completely unique collector's item that is 100% brass and copper. The Edison Battery Powered Light Stick is a versatile outdoor lantern and emergency flashlight in one. Its compact design makes it the most multi-purpose light in the Barebones collection.
Camping Car Refrigerator
This portable refrigerator/freezer allows you to store a variety of foods and drinks in a cold temperature to stay fresh while camping.
Camping Lanterns
These EverBrite camping lanterns boast an impressive 450 lumens output, providing you with bright and powerful illumination for all your needs. With 5 different modes, you can easily adjust the brightness level according to your preference, whether you need a soft glow for reading or a bright beam for outdoor activities.
Camping Multi-Tool
The BIIB tool hammer has 12 functions, including a mini hammer, nail claw, pliers, regular pliers, cutting assembly, cutter, saw, serrated cutter, file, flathead screwdrivers, Phillips screwdrivers, and bottle opener.
Camping Shovel & Axe
The Sunkoon folding camping survival shovel and axe set includes a shovel, axe, cutter, saw, hoe, hook, stick, wrench, screwdriver, bottle opener, hunting spear, whistle, fire starter, ice piton, window breaker, scraping fish scales and compass.
Electric Camping Lighter
This lighter kit includes a 360° adjustable USB lighter, a survival whistle lanyard, and a USB-C cable, making it perfect for both outdoor emergencies and indoor use, such as lighting campfires, BBQs, fireplaces, candles, and cigars. Its telescopic design ensures flexibility and safety in lighting fires.
Firewood Bag Carrier
This firewood bag carrier is made of heavy duty waxed 16oz cotton canvas which make the carrier water resistant. The log carrier is not only sturdy but also very attractive and useful for carrying all sorts of things
Firewood Tongs
These heavy-duty cast iron fireplace tongs make it easy to get a strong grip on large and small pieces of wood. Ideal for safely adjusting and picking up fireplace logs.
Hiking & Camping Backpack
This Maelstrom hiking backpack is made of high-quality rip-stop 210d nylon fabric, which is water-resistant, tear-resistant, and anti-scratch. The thick breathable padded back and shoulders keep you comfortable and cool during hiking.
Igloo Coolers
As one of Igloo’s bestselling outdoor coolers, the always-up-for-adventure Trailmate cooler now has more members in its crew. In addition to the fan-favorite Trailmate Journey with all-terrain wheels, the made-in-the-USA Trailmate Series includes two rugged and ready-for-the-great-outdoors hardside coolers in 25-quart and 50-quart sizes.
Keychain Multi-Tool
Save the day with this multi-tool that has an integrated bottle opener, box cutter, 3 wrench sizes, metric + standard ruler, and a flathead screwdriver.
LED Flashlight Gloves
These flashlight gloves will be a third helping hand, suitable for fishing, hiking, mountain camping, cycling, running and other outdoor night activities.
LED Light Rope
Our white LED rope light with a patented design can produce up to 360 lumens of camp light (USB battery pack included). Drape these bright LED light strips around you while taking an evening walk or keep it in the glove box as backup rope lighting. The 10 ft outdoor rope lights come with universal noodle ties, built-in magnets, a utility loop, and rip-stop bag to double as a lantern.
Microfiber Camping Towels
Lightweight and convenient, this camp towel packs down super small into the included carrying bag and makes the perfect companion for your daily adventures.
Portable Camping Fan with Light
This portable and rechargeable camping fan with light has a built-in type-C port and a USB output port for charging the fan conveniently. Use this portable fan as a power bank to power other devices, as a portable light, and of course as a fan for camping trips, fishing, power outages, hurricanes, etc.
Portable Ceiling Fan
This versatile camping ceiling fan combines a ceiling fan & light for the inside of your tent or canopy. This fan is equipped with a remote control to operate, and it has 4 speed settings.
Portable Mosquito Repeller
The Thermacell Portable Mosquito Repellent creates a 15-foot zone of protection against mosquitos. Ideal for camping, fishing, hunting, spectator sports, DIY and more.
Portable Power Station
This small portable power station from Anker has incredible reviews! There is optional solar power for charging, which makes it perfect to take camping and keep your devices charged when you aren’t near another power source.
Rechargeable LED Headlamp
This rechargeable headlamp is equipped with LED lights that can last for 10 hours on bright or 45 hours at the lowest brightness setting. The light is also adjustable for different angles. Perfect for camping, hiking, cycling, and more.
S'More To Love Roasting Reel
This reel rotates the fork for consistent roasting over the fire. The fork extends from 8" To 20" and is removable and dishwasher safe. Such a fun way to roast your marshmallows!
Walkie Talkies
These walkie-talkies support micro USB charging so you can charge them indoors, on the road, and even camping and hiking, and you do not need to pay for batteries, again and again. Nature is unpredictable, but you can be prepared and ready in the face of her fury with NOAA Weather Alert built into these walkie-talkies which can sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area. Earns a critical time for you to get full preparation advance, keeping you and your family safe.
Waterproof Dry Bag
This dry bag has overall waterproof capability, making sure to keep your items and valuables dry. It has an adjustable shoulder strap & handle for shoulder carrying and as a backpack. It also comes in 5 different sizes and lots of colors and each bag comes with a free waterproof cell phone case.
Wearable Neck Fan
This portable neck fan will keep you cool wherever you are when camping - it’s quiet and rechargeable, several colors to choose from.
Sleeping & Seating
A-Frame Camping Tent
This Ozark Trail 12-Person A-Frame Cabin Tent is perfect for family and group settings. Its whimsical design gives you that cozy cabin feel. The footprint is a spacious 14' x 12' with 113-inch center height and can house two queen-size mattresses with room to spare.
Handwoven Blankets
These blankets are cozy, practical, and full of vibrant colors to add joy wherever you take them. Offered in a pack of 1, each Aztec blanket is unique, woven by local artisans in Tlaxcala, Mexico on a traditional wooden loom.
Inflatable Couch
The perfect portable couch for hikers, campers, and outdoor lovers. The inflatable lounger is available in 15 unique patterns.
Rumpl Puffy Blanket
The Original Puffy outdoor blanket is a packable, portable, warm blanket that you can take just about anywhere. With a ripstop shell and insulation made from 100% recycled materials, it’s a cozy experience that’s better for the planet, too.
Pop ‘n Go Playpen
This baby play area is outdoor and indoor-friendly, for every occasion, under parental supervision. An essential travel pack-n-play for a busy parent on the go. This baby play yard is crafted with sturdy rails that secure with a safety lock, a breathable mesh for see-through visibility, and a UPF50+ UV canopy.
2-Person Hammock
This portable hammock packs up small and is light to travel with, making it the perfect backpacking hammock for trees. This double camping hammock has high-quality stitching and nylon with plenty of room to spread out and get cozy.
Compressible Camping Pillow
This compressible camping pillow is a soft, supportive, and packable travel and camp pillow for decadent rest anywhere. Offered in three sizes to suit your needs; stuffs easily into itself for easy packing; machine washable.
Portable Rocking Chair
This Portable Outdoor Rocking Chair is equipped with a breathable mesh backrest and convenient carrying handle. This portable folding chair quickly and easily folds flat for simple storage and transportation. The patented Spring-Action Rocking Technology delivers smooth rocking motion anywhere outdoors – lawn, patio, camping or tailgating.
Reclining Luxury Camping Chair
This reclining camping chair swings smoothly and gently, with a relaxing motion that is designed for comfort. It also has a supportive headrest and deep reclining action allowing a full view of the night sky.
Ultralight Backpacking Tent
This redesigned ultralight backpacking tent is more versatile than ever, with new awning-style vestibules that add even more livable space. Clever storage solutions keep all your essentials organized and out of your way. Keeps you warm at night, is light for carrying on the trail.
Memory Foam Camping Mattress Pad
This camping mattress pad is 2.75” of extra thick rollaway mattress, which features a hybrid design with 1.75" dense foam support & 1" Memory Foam for amazing comfort on any hard surface or floor.
Canvas Cabin Tent
This canvas cabin tent is a great choice for family camping. The size of the tent is big enough for a 4-people family. It also has a panoramic roof with a rainfly that goes overtop.
Inflatable Glamping Tent
The inflatable camping tent does not need manual installation of support rods, and it has an inflatable self-supporting structure. It can be installed in 3 steps. Step 1, take out the tent; Step 2, Inflate; Step 3, Fix the four corners. You can completely assemble the tent by yourself in 5 minutes. Make your camping trip more enjoyable and comfortable.
Air Mattress with Headboard
Queen-sized air mattress with plush headboard provides support when sitting up and helps keep pillows from falling off. Built-in air electric pump inflates and deflates the mattress for a convenient setup and takedown process.
Queen Size Sleeping Bag
These queen-size sleeping bags are the ultimate camping experience with a soft poly-flannel lining. The bag unzips on each side, It’s perfect for family camping trips. With dual-layer construction, you'll be comfortable and warm.
Ultrasoft Camping Comforter
This ultrasoft camping comforter has moisture-managing insulation to help you sleep in comfort. The cotton shell is brushed for a soft, cozy feel. Designed for year-round comfort: helps keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Camping Cot
This camping cot keeps you up off the ground and allows you to store luggage and other supplies underneath.
Inflatable Corner Sofa
Whether you are just relaxing or need extra space, this sophisticated corner sofa design creates spacious comfort and convenience for any indoor camping space.
Inflatable Sofa Bed and Chair Sleeper
This inflatable sofa pulls out into a queen-size air mattress large enough to seat or sleep 2 people. The chair pulls out into a twin-sized air mattress that supports up to 220 pounds of person and bedding.
Heated Camping Chair
Whether it's a winter camping trip or a fall bonfire, this heated outdoor chair is your all-season companion. The integrated heating element ensures extra comfort in cooler temperatures. Surprise outdoor enthusiasts with this heated camping chair, perfect for enhancing their outdoor experiences.
Camp Kitchen
Campfire Popcorn Popper
Take the fun anywhere outdoors with the Traditional Shake and Pop Popper. All you need is an open flame and you'll have 3 quarts of tasty popcorn in just 4-5 minutes.
Stanley Classic The Perfect-Brew Pour-Over Gift Set
The stainless steel design is stylish and non-breakable. The stainless steel filter helps extract your coffee's aromatic oils and subtle flavors instead of being absorbed by a paper filter. It’s a smarter option for your coffee. The perfect solution for brewing your fresh brewed coffee at home, in your office, or outdoors.
Marshmallow Roasting Sticks
Nothing beats cooking s'mores and hot dogs over an open fire. You and your family can enjoy countless delicious meals or snacks with these fire pit skewers.
Picnic Table Cover
With bright colors and flannel backing, this vinyl tablecloth not only gives your table a new stylish look, but also protects your table from scratches, beverage spills, and kids’ arts & crafts mishaps, making your table last longer. The elasticized edges keep the vinyl tablecloth tightly fitted and stay free from moving/falling off. Perfect for outdoor settings and picnic tables when camping.
Portable Fireplace & Grill
This portable wood-burning camping grill/stove/firepit is easy to assemble. Very convenient for barbecues, camping, beach, RV camping, and other outdoor occasions.
Outdoor Picnic Blanket
This picnic blanket is constructed with a waterproof PEVA backing in order to keep out moisture, for comfortable seating and easy clean-up.
Camp Kitchen Organizer
Keep all your outdoor kitchen essentials in one kit ready for an impromptu trip to the woods for dinner + star gazing. Pockets galore + paper towel holder (or mini clothesline), hang from the car or closest stick on the old oak.
Yeti Rambler Stackable Mug
The Yeti Rambler Stackable Mug is made from durable stainless steel with double-wall vacuum insulation to protect your hot or cold beverage at all costs. These Ramblers come standard with the YETI MagSlider Lid, the only drink lid that uses the power of magnets to keep your favorite drink on lock. There are so many colors to choose from!
Wearable
Beanie with LED Light
This LED hat light has 4 built-in LED bulbs and has 3 brightness levels. This knitted hat with flashlight is thoughtfully designed to look good and fashionable, keep you warm, and provide approximately 10 hours of battery life. Wear it running, camping, hiking, hunting, jogging, shoveling snow, etc. Light up your way in the dark night.
Wearable Hoodie Blanket
This wearable synthetic-insulated hooded poncho offers a barrier against wind and rain with its water-resistant and breathable shell; ideal for camp, at the game, or anywhere a little extra warmth is needed.
Anorak Jacket for Women
This classic wind- and water-resistant layer is designed to keep the light rain out and the outdoor fun going.
Anorak Jacket for Men
This classic wind- and water-resistant layer is designed to keep the light rain out and the outdoor fun going.
Hiking Socks
Moisture-wicking boot socks are a must-have when hiking and camping!
Barebones Open Fire Gloves
The glove is made from flexible and durable materials, allowing for a comfortable fit and long-lasting performance. Its sturdy construction ensures it can withstand the demands of open-fire cooking, making it a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures.
Fleece Pullover for Women
A cozy fleece pullover is a practical and stylish gift for any camping enthusiast. It's soft, warm, and flattering with a versatile design. The half-zip and mock neck collar add convenience and protection. Available in beautiful colors, it's perfect for any outfit. Give the gift of warmth and style!
Fleece Pullover for Men
A cozy fleece pullover is a practical and stylish gift for any camping enthusiast. It's soft, warm, and flattering with a versatile design. The half-zip and mock neck collar add convenience and protection. Available in several colors, it's perfect for any outfit. Give the gift of warmth and style!
Hiking Boots for Women
Quality waterproof hiking boots are a necessity for anyone who loves hiking and camping!
Hiking Boots for Men
Quality waterproof hiking boots are a necessity for anyone who loves hiking and camping!
Patagonia Rain Jacket for Women
I finally splurged and upgraded to a new rain jacket for myself and have been so happy with this Patagonia - especially on recent cool fall weather hikes and several fall rain storms. My last rain jacket (different brand) was a size Medium and if I wanted to layer anything under it, was too small to zip - so I got this one in a large and it is perfect. It fits me so well.
Patagonia Rain Jacket for Men
This 3-layer waterproof/breathable H2No® Performance Standard rain jacket shell provides the highest levels of comfort and performance and long-term waterproof durability; Fair Trade Certified™ sewn. Perfect for camping, hiking, and everyday use.
Books & Games
Camping Journal
Life is a journey, and the best journeys are camping trips! Use this logbook to record the details of your camping adventures so you can look back on and share experiences and favorite spots.
Fireside Story Dice
These story dice are a fun way to tell stories around the campfire and create lots of new memories!
Campfire Stories Deck for Kids
Firmly grounded in the natural world, the fun and furry prompts in Campfire Stories Deck--For Kids! spark children’s imaginations for story-telling adventures. To play, young players pick one card from each set and then use the prompts to make up a story. With this deck in hand, kids of all ages can gather around the campfire and set their outdoor imaginations on fire!
Where Should We Camp Next? Book
Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the camping scene, this guide offers invaluable insights and inspiration to help you plan your next camping adventure with ease.
Waterproof Playing Cards
These waterproof playing cards are flexible and easy to shuffle, even when wet. Perfect for the lake, beach, camping, or a tailgate.
The Campout Cookbook
Forget freeze-dried astronaut meals and bags of stale, store-bought gorp. Finally, here’s a cookbook that complements the magic of gathering around a campfire and sharing a meal with friends.
National Parks Playing Cards
This set of playing cards is perfect for any National Parks fan!
Trekking The National Parks Board Game
Created By National Parks Enthusiasts - This couple traveled to every single national park and then worked with their son to make the game. It’s the perfect recipe for a family game night! Appeals to a wide range of people: outdoor lovers, board game players, and gift-givers.
Basecamp Conversation Cards
Basecamp Cards are conversational card decks that make communication simpler, more meaningful, and memorable. These cards were carefully designed to invite honest communication, storytelling, and a balance between depth and fun! There is an original edition, a second edition, and a kids’ edition.
For Kids
Camping Lantern for Kids
This is a fun animal-themed headlamp and lantern set for kids of all ages. These portable mini lanterns are the perfect camping companion.
Kids’ Campfire Crew Sweatshirt
Your little one will make a statement this season in the staple graphic crewneck sweatshirts from Little Co. by Lauren Conrad.
Campfire S’mores Play Set
This Campfire S’mores Play Set from Melissa & Doug encourages kids to connect with the natural world through imaginative play, and to discover the joy of outdoor adventures that instill curiosity and confidence while inspiring them to say, "Let's Explore.” Includes crackling flames, 4-piece log, wooden saw, reversible fire pit mat, 2 toasting sticks, activity booklet, collectible medallion, and mesh storage bag.
Hiking Play Set
This Hiking Play Set from Melissa & Doug encourages kids to connect with the natural world through imaginative play, and to discover the joy of outdoor adventures that instill curiosity and confidence while inspiring them to say, "Let's Explore.” Hiking essentials include play first aid kit, play binoculars, sunscreen tube with flip-top, multi-tool (compass, magnifier, saw, ruler), durable canteen, wooden snack bar, 6 double-sided animal track cards, trail guide activity book, pencil.
Camp Cooler Play Set
This Camp Cooler Play Set from Melissa & Doug encourages kids to connect with the natural world through imaginative play, and to discover the joy of outdoor adventures that instill curiosity and confidence while inspiring them to say, "Let's Explore.” Kid-sized play cooler has handle, hinged lid with cup holder indents, and removable divider that doubles as a food prep surface; includes 2 snack containers with snap-on lids, 2 wooden spoons, yogurt cup with lid, drink container with 2 nesting cups, play ice pack, collectible medallion, activity card.
Binoculars & Compass Play Set
This Binoculars & Compass Play Set from Melissa & Doug encourages kids to connect with the natural world through imaginative play, and to discover the joy of outdoor adventures that instill curiosity and confidence while inspiring them to say, "Let's Explore.” Includes play binoculars with soft eyepieces, built-in compass, an adjustable strap with self-stick closure, handy storage bag, field guide, and collectible medallion.
Kids’ Hammock Chair
Add fun and comfort to your family’s next outdoor adventure with the Ozark Trail Kids’ Hammock Chair. Unlike traditional camp seating, this product combines the relaxing swaying motion of a hammock with the portability of a folding chair.
Kids’ Wind and Rain Jacket
This wind and rain jacket for kids is great for multiple seasons, mild temperatures, and layering up for adventures. This lightweight, packable, and weather-resistant anorak was made in bold, fun colors for brightness even on the gloomiest days.
Kids’ Camping Backpack
This small hiking and camping backpack is the perfect size for kids. Lots of colors available.
Kids’ Duffel Bag
This color block duffel bag is perfect for kids to take camping - it has a side zipper pocket and a separate shoe compartment.
