40 BEST GIFTS FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS FOR THE 2019 HOLIDAY SEASON

*This post is sponsored by REI, our favorite one-stop shop for 2019 holiday gifts for outdoor lovers in your life. As always, all words (and gift ideas) were thoughtfully crafted by the Bearfoot Theory team.

The perfect gift for outdoor lovers in 2019 should do three things: fuel adventure, increase stoke levels and keep them outside for way longer. The good news is that every adventurous gift on our 2019 outdoor enthusiast gift list does all that and more.

From international travelers to hikers, backpackers, road trippers, vanlifers, camp cooks, and powder chasers, we checked off every box to make sure there’s something for every kind of adventurer in your life. And our holiday gift list makes your shopping as quick, easy, and painless as possible by including gifts for outdoor lovers that are ALL available at REI. The less time you have to spend in the store and on your computer, the more time you’ll have to #optoutside with friends and family this holiday season.

If you aren’t an REI Co-Op member, now is the time to sign up and earn dividend points with every purchase which means 10% back in cash or store credit. REI always guarantees easy returns in case a gift just doesn’t work.

Gifts for Outdoor Lovers – Index

Gifts for Outdoor Women

Gifts for Outdoor Men

Gifts for Vanlifers + Roadtrippers

Gifts for Hikers + Backpackers

Gifts for the Camp Chef

Gifts for International Travelers

Gifts for the Snow Lover

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Outdoor Gifts for Women

Our favorite gifts for adventurous ladies who love to get outside and get after it.

• REI Co-op Trailsmith Overalls

If you’re an outdoor woman that needs a tough pair of working pants or you just spend a lot of time around the campfire in the cooler months, these overalls are for you. These REI Co-op Trailsmith Overalls are seriously durable, good at blocking wind and provide extra warmth around the core. They get softer with wear, have elastic shoulder straps that improve stretch and mobility, and have deep pockets for your essentials. Check out the normal pants version here.

 

• Janji Transit Tech Meridian Half-Zip long sleeve top

The Janji Transit Tech Meridian Half-Zip long sleeve top is the perfect 2020 gift for the female hiker that likes to sport cute, but highly functional layers. The half-zipper gives you coverage or ventilation, depending on the conditions, and when I wore it in Rocky Mountain National Park, I found it to provide solid wind chill defense when I was above treeline. The terracotta color has a fun pattern, and it’s fitted but not too snug (although you should size up if you prefer a looser fit). As a bonus, the Janji brand donates 5% of proceeds to support clean water, sanitation, and hygiene initiates in developing countries

 

• Oboz Sapphire 8″ BDry Insulated Boots 

Whether you are snowshoeing, shoveling the driveway, or headed out for apres, these Oboz Sapphire 8″ BDry Insulated Boots keep your feet toasty, while providing superior traction with their winterized rubber soles. Equipped with Oboz’s O-Fit Insole, these winter boots give you the support of a traditional hiking boot, so they give you the ability to tackle the trails (or that icy parking lot) with confidence.

 

• Leatherman Signal Colors Multi-Tool

A super useful multi-tool with a little bit of flair. This Leatherman Signal Colors Multi-Tool has everything you need. From a hammer that you can use to pound tent stakes into the ground to a sharp knife for cutting cord (or slicing cheese), this is a perfect gift for the outdoor woman who wants to be more prepared and independent on their adventures. It’s compact, weighs only 7.5 ounces, and every tool can be opened using a single hand.

 

• Kavu Spectator Waistpack

The Kavu Spectator Waistpack is a simple, stylish, and straightforward option for everyday or casual outings. It has two zippered compartments, an adjustable strap, and an easy side buckle. The cute designs punch up the look enough so you can go without a full size bag or purse and not have to worry about stuffing everything into a pocket. This is easily the best fanny pack for going hands-free on a night out with friends.

See More Gifts for Outdoor Women

Outdoor Gifts for Men

The man who loves outdoor adventure might not buy himself nice (and useful) things but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it for him. Here are some of our favorite gift ideas.

 

• NRS H2Core Silkweight Hoodie

This NRS H2Core Silkweight Hoodie is my partner’s favorite shirt to wear when we are hiking. With long sleeves, a hood, and thumbholes, it provides SPF 50+ sun protection for the arms neck, and hands. At the same time, it’s highly breathable and wicks moisture due to its synthetic blend, making it a great option for sweaty hikes or a day on the water.

 

• Wallace Lake Men’s Flannel Shirt

The unofficial uniform of every outdoor enthusiast is a flannel. This version by REI is everything you want in a flannel, plus it’s a homage to their humble beginnings while on a trip to Wallace Lake. The Wallace Lake Flannel comes in a variety of colors for a look that works all around, whether a day on the trail, an evening around the campfire, or a dinner out.

 

• Patagonia Torrentshell Rain Jacket

Every man needs a rain jacket, and this one is our absolute favorite. Patagonia’s Torrentshell Rain Jacket is insulated, breathable, waterproof, and made from recycled nylon making it a more earth-friendly option.

 

• EX OFFICIO BOXER BRIEFS

Ex Officio makes some of the best undergarments for both men and women in our opinion. These Ex Officio boxer briefs come in a variety of fun, outdoor designs and best of all, they’re breathable, odor-resistant, and easy to wash on the go making them perfect for multi-day treks or international travel.

 

• Mens Darn Tough Hiker Socks

Really, there’s nothing like a giving or receiving a great pair of socks as a gift, especially a pair of Darn Tough Hiker Socks. This Vermont-based company makes some of the best hiking socks that will ensure happy feet on the trail.

Gifts for Vanlifers + Roadtrippers

Vanlifers and Roadtrippers don’t need much when they’re out on the road—but for those times that they do, here’s our curated list to help you gift right.

• CGear Sand-Free Mat

An outside mat is something that every vanlifer finds useful. It keeps sand and dirt from getting tracked inside and created a nice “patio” space for hanging out. This CGear Sand-Free Mat is my favorite because it allows sand and dirt to filter through, rather than pile up on top, and it’s what I use when I set up camp in my van.

 

• Snow Peak Fire Kit

This Snow Peak Fire Kit allows you to enjoy a campfire or get your grill on wherever you are without making a mark. It packs up flat making it easy to store and transport, and can be used as both a fire pit and a grill, making this a perfect gift for van lifers and car camping trips.

 

• Revel Gear Camping Lights

Create a magical atmosphere with these camping lights by REVEL GEAR. These bright, energy efficient, and dimmable lights are perfect for stringing along an awning, on the inside of your tent, or around your campsite. Plus, with your purchase, you help REVEL GEAR support renewable energy and lighting projects for those in need.

 

• ENO Lounger DL Chair

I recently purchased a set of these chairs for Ryan and I in the van, and man am I a convert! These ENO Lounger DL Chairs are hands down the most comfortable chairs I’ve ever owned. They allow you to sit back in a way that eliminates slouching – my back has never felt better.

 

• REI Co-op Double Sleeping Bag

Looking to get cozy with your partner? This REI Co-op double sleeping bag will keep you both warm, plus it allows you adjust as needed by offering separate ventilating zippers in case one of you sleeps hotter than the other. Perfect for the bed in your rig or a comfy setup in your tent.

 

• REI Co-op Kingdom Low Table

This REI Co-op Kingdom Low Table collapses for easy carrying and storage, and it’s perfect for lounging at camp. Whether you’re playing cards, prepping food, or want a bedside table in your tent, this table will make a nice addition to your setup.

See our top 10 must have van life essentials

Gifts for Hikers and Backpackers

Perfect for day hikes or multi-day treks, check out our top picks for the hikers and backpackers in your life.

 

• REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL2 Tent

The REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL2 Tent is the best of the best and is what I currently use. It’s lightweight, roomy, and easy to set up, making it perfect for both backpacking and car camping. If you want one tent that’ll fit the bill all around, this is it.

 

• Deuter Aircontact Lite Backpacking Pack

The Deuter Aircontact Lite Pack comes in a variety of carrying capacities in both a men’s and women’s fit, and is highly adjustable making this a great gift for any backpacker.

 

• Garmin Mini 2-Way Satellite Communicator

This nifty little handheld device keeps you safe on backcountry expeditions by tracking your location, providing 2-way texting and SOS capabilities should things go wrong. A Garmin Mini 2-Way Satellite Communicator is a must to keep you safe and your loved ones at ease.

 

• Sea to Summit Comfort Lite Sleeping Pad

In need of a new sleeping pad or know someone who is? This Sea to Summit Comfort Lite Insulated Sleeping Pad is a great option for cooler temps. It’s designed to provide max comfort and insulation while still being lightweight. Another thing I like about this pad is the air inflation bag and the one way valve that makes blowing up and deflating this sleeping pad a cinch.

 

• Black Diamond Trekking Poles

Get your hiking or backpacking enthusiast a pair of trekking poles – it’s an absolute game changer. Trekking poles help distribute the weight off your knees and ankles and help you have better posture while hiking. These Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles are lightweight, fold up for easy transport, and come in different sizes so you can get some that fit your form perfectly. To give you an idea for sizing, someone who is 5’3″ would want the 110″, someone who is 6′ would want the 130″ pair.

 

• Sea to Summit Compression Sack

Compression sacks are always handy, especially waterproof ones that double up to keep your gear dry. This Sea to Summit Compression Sack can reduce your clothing and gear to 1/3 the size while preventing water from entering. We’ve used this on backpacking and bike camping trips to get our gear to fit where it needs to.

 

• The TentLab Backcountry Trowel

A trowel is a must have for anyone hiking or backpacking without bathroom facilities nearby. A lightweight, easy to carry option like this TentLab Backcountry Trowel will make leaving no trace a cinch.

 

• All-Weather Outdoor Journal

These all-weather outdoor journals are the perfect gift for any writer who likes to hike, backpack, travel, or do anything else outdoors.

 

Check out these day hiking essentials for more gift ideas

Gifts for the Camp Chef

Making the camp cook happy for the holidays pretty much guarantees that you’ll be happy (and full) too. Take the camp kitchen to the next level with these gift ideas.

 

• Eureka Ignite Camp Stove

A camp stove might just be the most important piece of equipment in your camp kitchen. The Eureka Ignite Camp Stove has two powerful burners, great simmering capability, and a solid construction that will help you cook up delicious camp meals for years.

 

• GSI Base Camper Cookset

A good set of pots and pans that’s easy to clean is key for the camp chef. This GSI Cookset comes with everything you need including a large and a small pot, a frying pan, and a cutting board that all pack away into a single stuff sack.

 

• YETI Rambler Tumbler

An insulated mug is a car camping and road tripping (and really an everyday) essential. This YETI Tumbler keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold. The lid on this tumbler is easy to open and close yet prevents major spills, plus it’s really easy to clean.

 

• GSI Outdoors Glacier Vacuum JavaPress

The GSI Glacier Vacuum JavaPress is built for the outdoors. It’s rugged stainless steel construction makes it durable for years of use, and best of all, it also serves as a carafe to keep your coffee hot.

 

• Ultimate Survival Technologies FlexWare Sink

A dish bucket makes clean up at camp much easier. This Ultimate Survival Technologies FlexWare Sink folds down for easy storage when not in use, plus it’s sturdy, lightweight, and can be used for more than just dishes.

 

Gifts for International Travelers

Going somewhere? Use our list to get the perfect gift for that loved one who lives to put a new stamp on their passport.

 

• GRAYL’s Geopress Water Purifier Bottle

GRAYL’s Geopress Water Purifier Bottle removes viruses, protozoa, bacteria, heavy metals, and more from water wherever you are. I used GRAYL to quickly purify both tap and stream water when I was in South America, but it’s equally useful on road trips where you are getting your water from gas stations, campsites, and garden hoses. This gift will help you stay healthy and hydrated while traveling, plus you’ll never need to buy a plastic bottle of water again. 

 

• Nomadix Quick Dry Towel

A quick try towel always comes in handy while traveling whether you’re on the beach, hitting the trail, or rinsing off. The Nomadix Quick Dry Towel comes in vibrant designs, is full size (yet packs down small), and is lightweight, making it the perfect gift for travelers.

 

• REI Co-op Travel Pack

This is by far one of the handiest travel packs we’ve seen. The REI Co-op Ruckpack Travel Pack will hold everything you need for traveling, plus it comes with a removable mini pack for day trips. With lots of thoughtful touches, you’ll be ready for anything with this pack. It comes in both a men’s and women’s size.

 

• REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are traveling essentials that allow for ultimate organization, more room in your bag, and peace of mind. REI’s packing cube set has three different sizes to keep everything in its right place. These make a great gift for vanlifers too!

 

• REI Co-op Shower Roll

Let your wanderlusting friend bring their whole medicine cabinet with them — neatly, of course. With the REI Shower Roll they can easily pack up all their amenities, plus it comes with a mirror and strap to hang it up.

Gifts for the Snow Lover

Help the skiers, snowboarders, and snow lovers in your life hit the slopes with gear that will keep them cozy and warm on the coldest of days.

• BUFF Polar Headwear

BUFF’s multifunctional headwear is always a good idea and makes the perfect versatile gift. This fleece lined Polar Buff is especially handy during the winter when it’s cold out.

 

• North Face Knit Beanie

A cozy knitted beanie, like this one by The North Face, makes a great gift for the snow bunny in your life. This chunky, hand knit one will keep them warm and toasty.

 

• MSR Evo Snowshoes

Looking to try something new? These MSR Evo Snowshoes are dependable and work well in a variety of conditions, making these a great gift whether you’re looking to try snowshoeing for the first time or you’re a seasoned snowshoer.

 

• Backcountry Access T3 Transceiver / Probe / Shovel Rescue Package

If the snowshoer/skier/snowboarder in your life likes to get out in the backcountry, help them stay safe with essential avalanche safety gear. This Backcountry Access package comes with a lightweight, easy-to-use beacon, shovel, and probe  – a kit that anyone venturing around avalanche-prone terrain should always have with them.

 

• Black Diamond Mercury Mitts

Keep their mitts warm with a pair of insulated, waterproof and convertible Black Diamond Mercury gloves for chilly days on the hill.

Read our beginner tips for hitting the slopes this winter

 

Hope this list of best gifts for outdoor lovers in 2019 helps simplify your shopping so you can get out of the stores and spend more time outside this holiday season.

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