There's no wrong time to spoil the nature lover in your life. Whether they enjoy staring up at the stars through the see-through flaps on their tent or fly fishing like there's no tomorrow, they're always in the market for gear, apparel and other items that will aid in their next adventure.
From brands like Gatorade to REI, they'll have their next trip planned in no time — even if it's just camping in their backyard.
Under $20 | Apparel | Gear | Books | Accessories
Gifts for outdoor lovers under $20
Snow Peak Hot Lips Silicone Protection
Long gone are the days where you burn your lips while sipping your morning coffee. Thanks to these silicone savers that slip over the brim of any titanium mug, you won't have to worry about starting your morning off with a burn. "You don't know you need these, until you do," said one reviewer, with another one adding that they're "such a little simple item and so necessary."
Chums Surfshorts Wallet
Made with ripstop fabric (think: sleeping bags, sails, tents, etc.), this wallet is meant to keep your cash, coins and cards safe from the elements. Available in 12 different colors, this wallet features a clear front pocket for an accessible way to show your ID.
Odysea Personalized Camper Mug
This handmade metal mug is perfect for sipping hot chocolate around a campfire. Personalize with their name and an outdoor scene.
I'd Rather be Camping Socks
On the rare weekends that they're not camping, gift them these socks as a cozy reminder of how much they're missing the great outdoors.
Protect Our Forests Bandana
Wipe away sweat while rocking an important statement in this bandana, which has themes of protecting forests as its focal design. With drawings of Smokey the Bear and phrases such as "Protect Our Forests" and "Yours to Enjoy — Not to Destroy" emblazoned on it, reviewers love it due to its "good quality."
Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie
Everyone needs a good beanie. This one from Carhartt is made from 100% acrylic and comes in 35 color options.
Apparel gifts for outdoor lovers
Lasso Compression Socks
Runners rave about this breathable athletic sock that provides compression throughout the foot and leg. It’s crafted from a moisture-wicking polyfiber yarn.
Parks Project National Parks 'Grandpa' Hat
Parks Project has lots of T-shirts, fleece sweatshirts, mugs, posters and other merchandise that's National Park-specific and allows them to show off their love for their favorite park. But if they want all-encompassing merch, this 'grandpa' hat gives them a comfortable fit that feels worn in.
Lululemon Cold Terrain Run Gloves
Prevent frozen fingers — and stay safe — with these stretch-fleece gloves that have reflective stripes on the side. An added bonus? They have screen-friendly fingertips.
Patagonia Brodeo Beanie
Available in a dozen different colors, this beanie is one of the most reviewed hats on Patagonia's site. Perhaps it's because it fits true to size. Maybe it's due to the "real good warmth" it provides or, rather, for how "comfortable" and "stylish" it is. Either way, reviewers all rave about this beanie from the popular and well-loved outdoors and activist brand.
Marmot Women's Minimalist Jacket
Whether they're hiking the snowy peaks of the Rockies or braving the cold weather of the Pacific Northwest, they can brave any and all of the elements with this jacket from Marmot. Labeled as both water- and wind-proof, this jacket also has a drawcord along the hem, making sure the warmth stays trapped in. Reviewers not only love it because it's true to size, but also because it's "lightweight but kept me warm," according to one.
Outdoor Voices RecTrek Pant
Waterproof, durable, comfortable — all words used to describe the RecTrek pant from Outdoor Voices. Available in six colors, these pants are perfect for hiking, camping or any outdoor activity they have up their sleeve. "The pants are very breathable, [there's] space to wear fleece leggings underneath if needed and [they] dry quickly. I feel very confident in these hiking pants," said one reviewer. Another one noted that these strike the perfect balance between professional and personal wear, wearing them into the office on more casual days.
Gear gifts for outdoor lovers
Tushy Travel
Bring ultimate comfort with you no matter where you go — literally. This portable bidet is the gift your outdoorsy friend or family member didn't know they needed.
Collapsible Trekking Pole
These 4.5-foot trekking poles collapse to two feet, perfect for on-the-go outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, they weigh less than four ounces, meaning they won't add much weight to their backpack. They're also outfitted with cork-like handles make gripping more comfortable. One reviewer said they won't climb without them ever again, noting that they assist with easing pain that comes with hiking and "perform beautifully."
Wise Owl Double Hammock
Available in both single and double person options, Wise Owl hammocks allow you to immerse yourself in the outdoors for a fraction of the cost. Available in a number of color combinations, this hammock also comes with two straps and two carabiners to hoist onto trees.
Made with a nylon fabric that's proven easy-to-clean, this hammock weighs 24 ounces, meaning it won't weigh your pack down when traveling or hiking to your favorite hammocking spot.
Crazy Creek Chair
For lunch breaks in between trails or for popping a more comfortable squat instead of a log or the ground, turn to this Crazy Creek chair, which folds and can be carried via the handles, or hook it to your backpack with a carabiner. Reviewers love it because it's lightweight, high-quality and a "camping classic."
Nite Ize Radiant Rechargeable LED Headlamp
Wearing a headlamp is a must for nighttime hikes and runs. This reliable option features a built-in power bank that charges small devices from anywhere. “The spotlight is comparable to that of a strong flashlight, and the flood lights are the perfect brightness for visibility at night without waking up everyone in camp,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. Added another, “I recently did a 27-mile, nine-hour overnight hike. The light was strong all night long.”
Coleman Classic 2-Burner Propane Stove
Slices of bacon, an omelet, pancakes, burgers, chicken breasts and anything else you would normally cook at home can now be cooked while camping with this two-burner propane stove from Coleman. "It's a classic," said one reviewer, who also added that it's a no-frills stove, recommending it to anyone who is looking for a simple piece of equipment.
REI Co-op Flexlite Camp Chair
Not only is this camping chair super comfortable, but it also weighs just a little over a pound, making it the perfect choice for backpacking trips.
Mystery Ranch Hip Pack
For a larger version of the viral crossbodies and hip packs that have risen in popularity in recent years, this one from Mystery Ranch weighs less than one pound, yet has enough room to hold everything from ultimate frisbee discs to a water bottle.
Teton Mountain Ultra 1-Person Tent
For the solo traveler or the backpacker who doesn't want to add unnecessary weight to their load, gift them with this one-person tent. Proven to be water- and wind-proof according to reviewer testimonies, don't let size fool you as this tent is also spacious given the small capacity. Easy to set up and takedown, this tent also has longevity, according to reviewers who have used it for a number of years.
Garmin Venu Sq Smartwatch
The Venu Sq — the Sq is short for square — tracks your heart rate and footsteps, monitors sleep, measures heart rate and has a built-in GPS. It also features a pulse oximeter. It offers roughly six days worth of battery life.
Cotopaxi Allpa 28-Liter Bag
Frequent travelers and outdoor enthusiasts take to TikTok to rave about this bag. This pack can be carried on your back thanks to the shoulder straps or like a briefcase thanks to the side handles. A nylon exterior also makes this backpack easy to spot clean when the elements get in the way.
Napier Backroadz Truck Tent
For the camper who prefers to use their truck as a one-stop shop for all things transportation and lodging, gift them this tent that checks all the boxes. With two large mesh windows and a mesh doorway, this tent provides ample natural light but has flaps that can zip up for privacy while you're sleeping or changing. "The design allows for a huge amount of headroom inside," said one reviewer, adding that "the door hanging over the tailgate allows room for storage of belongings, even with a truck bed air mattress inflated."
Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock
In 2020, the co-founders of Yellow Leaf Hammocks left “Shark Tank” with a $1 million deal. Each eco-friendly sling can hold up to 400 pounds and is hand woven with a weather-safe yarn that won’t mold, mildew or break down in the sun. Happy napping!
Books for outdoor lovers
"Where Should We Camp Next?"
When even family powerpoint night doesn't help dwindle down the vacation spots, turn to this guide to campgrounds and spots in each state, including spots for glamping. "I’ll be referring to this book for years to come I am sure, and have already ordered more for gifts," said one reviewer.
"She Explores: Stories of Life-Changing Adventures"
Filled with both stories and advice for women, by women, on various topics: including solo hiking trips, cooking food in the wild, making plans for crossing into unknown waters and more. This book is an "inspiring" insight into the world of hiking and exploring the outdoors as a woman.
"Camp Cocktails"
If they need a gin and tonic while enjoying the great outdoors, gift them with this recipe book that will provide them with more recipes to get crafty with. With different chapters based on what kind of outdoor adventure they're going on, they'll be the talk of the campground (in a good way!)
"Leave Only Footprints" by Conor Knighton
After a called off his engagement, Conor Knighton went from A to Z through the national parks, literally. Going from Acadia to Zion, Knighton shares his stories on the trails he hiked, people he met and lessons he learned along the way.
"Where the Deer and Antelope Play," by Nick Offerman
Actor and outdoor enthusiast Nick Offerman highlights stories of lessons learned, trails trekked and people met while exploring the Great Outdoors.
Accessories for outdoor lovers
Matador Pocket Blanket
Throw this 3.5-ounce nylon and wool blanket in your backpack for picnics and trips to the beach. It fits in the palm of your hand, but folded out, it covers 64 by 44 inches.
Campfire Beer Caramelizer
Infuse smoky flavors right into your beer whether in your backyard or at a campsite. This caramelizer is a stainless-steel rod that you toast over an open flame and then stick into your beer to achieve that delicious, cozy flavor.
City Bonfires Portable Bonfire Kit
For rainy days at the campsite or for implementing campground elements at your city apartment, this portable bonfire kit is food-safe, meaning you can even roast marshmallows over it.
Homesick Candles Lake Living
Wintertime have them missing their favorite weekend destination? Cold weather has them reminiscing about warmer temperatures and days spent on the boat? There's a simple solution to that: this candle with notes of citron, pine, lime and more that will remind them of their home away from home.
Outer Bug Shield Blanket
These super-soft blankets are treated with a naturally derived anti-insect technology to propel mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, flies, ants and more. Each odorless throw measures 50 by 60 inches and can be laundered up to 25 times without losing its effectiveness.
Hyperice Hypervolt2
This handheld vibrating massage gun loosens tight muscles and reduces soreness after long hikes. It device offers three levels of vibration, and it comes with five different head attachments to target specific areas.
