6 Gift Ideas for the Avid Hiker in Your Life

Finding the perfect gift for anybody, let alone avid hikers, can be a struggle. What makes shopping for the hiker in your life even more difficult is that most experienced hikers already have everything they need, or at least think they do.

Hikers are also often meticulous about their gear. It has to be useful, compact, and unique enough to be worth stuffing in their backpacks before hitting the trails. As tempting as it can be to take the easy route and just buy an outdoor or sporting goods gift card, get something more tangible.

Consider getting your hiking friend or family member something they have never seen before that is also extremely useful. This way, when they go hiking, backpacking, or camping, they will always think of you when they use it. If you need inspiration, you will find something unique and valuable below. The following six gift ideas will be perfect for any camper, backpacker, or hiker you know.

MSR Strike Igniter

Most hiking experts recommend bringing along something that can light a fire. You never know when something might arise during a hike that would require fire or flames. Portable stoves (see below), lanterns, campfires, and even portable espresso machines (see below) all could need a flame.

Many hikers choose to bring matches or simple plastic lighters. While those items are great, they have their drawbacks. Moisture, wind, and low air pressure can all make matches and lighters useless. The MSR Strike Igniter is as small as a lighter and can produce up to 5,500 degrees sparks, even in the worst elements. With a lifespan of 3,000 to 12,000 strikes, it lasts longer than dozens and dozens of lighters, making it something they will use for a long time. As a bonus, it also features a bottle opener. Even if the person you buy this for does not use it on hikes, they will almost certainly find another use for it.

Kammock Wallaby Hammock

Sometimes, when hiking, you can find the perfect scenic spot after walking a ways and want to lay back and enjoy the view. Unless you have brought along a tent or sleeping bag, odds are the only two options are to get on the ground or stand. The Kammock Wallaby Hammock is great for any hiker, even those with everything. Most hikers do not carry any hammocks, tents, or bags for day hiking because they are either too bulky or too heavy. This hammock weighs only 10 ounces and folds down to the size of a soda can, perfect for any hiker to stuff in a backpack if needed.

Letbroil MicroMo Cooking System

Similar to the hammock above, a major reason hikers do not bring a stove is space and weight. The Letbroil MicroMo Cooking System weighs just one pound and is smaller than most water bottles. With this tiny, useful stove, your hiking friends or family can show off their inner chefs anywhere the trails may take them.

Fenix MC11 Tactical Flashlight

No matter where anybody goes, it is always a great, safe idea to pack a small flashlight in their car, purse, backpack, or bag. This is doubly true for anybody who goes hiking or backpacking. You never know what emergencies might arise while on the trail, and having a quality flashlight might save somebody's life. There are thousands of different tactical flashlights made for hiking and the outdoors. What makes this one different?

It can stand, hand, and clip to almost anything, making it invaluable for dark trials and tents. While it does need one AA battery, that one battery can last up to 53 hours. The MC11 is made from durable aluminum, has three brightness settings and a swiveling head, and is one of the best flashlights you could ever give someone.

Handpresso Wild Hybrid Espresso Maker

You never know when the mood might strike, and you start craving an espresso, even hiking on the trails. While you will never find a Starbucks out in the woods, you can have the next best thing. The Handpresso Wild Hybrid Espresso Maker lets anybody make a shot of espresso anywhere in the world.

Many hikers who need a little caffeine, coffee, or espresso fix either need to bring their pre-made brew, use a bulky French press, or use the Handpresso. This tiny, handheld espresso maker is perfect for hikers. It is small enough to fit in a backpack without displacing any other important items and high-quality enough to make a fantastic shot of espresso. With a bit of hot water, some ground espresso or espresso pods, and a little effort working the maker, you can make a great shot of espresso.

Gear Aid Tenacious Tape

A package of tape may not seem like a great gift, but for hikers, a package of Gear Aid Tenacious Tape can be a lifesaver. Hiking gear and equipment go through a lot of wear and tear when used often. Out in nature, it can be incredibly easy to rip or tear shoes, backpacks, clothing, tents, rain gear, or any other fabric. When that does happen, they will be thrilled you gifted them tape made especially for outdoor gear.

Gear Aid tape has peelable backs, so when cutting into small strips, it is quick and easy to seal any rip before it gets any bigger. Tape rolls come in different varieties for different types of situations. They are waterproof, washable, and repositionable without leaving a sticky residue, making them perfect for any hiker, regardless of experience.

There are plenty of gift options for the hiker in your life, even if they already have seemingly everything. If you are desperately looking for the perfect gift, skip the usual gift card and give them something they will use for years and years. While the above six ideas are just a small sampling of the great gift options available for hikers, they are some of the best, most unique, and handy pieces of hiking equipment you can give somebody.