If you’re on the lookout for the perfect stocking stuffer hiking gifts for the outdoorsy person in your life (or maybe just treating yourself – because why not?), you’ve hit the jackpot!
In this budget-friendly gift guide, you’ll find affordable yet awesome hiking gifts that won’t break the bank.
Whether you’re shopping for a trailblazing friend, a nature-loving family member, or just gearing up for your own outdoor adventure, this is a solid round-up of the 20+ BEST stocking stuffers under $20 for 2024.
From handy gadgets to hiking essentials, your lucky loved one is about to elevate their hiking game!
👉 Related: 24 Best Gifts For Hikers (They’ll Actually Use)
Quick Guide: Stocking Stuff Ideas
Find the perfect stocking stuffer hiking gifts with our curated list!
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What are the Best Stocking Stuffer Hiking Gifts?
Are you tired of reading articles that say “stocking stuffer” ideas only to find out they end up suggesting $300 presents?!
How ridiculous and frustrating is that? I mean, last I checked a stocking stuffer should be like a trinket—something in the range of definitely no more than $20 (if that much).
Well, don’t worry. This is NOT that type of article. These ideas are not only great gifts for hikers but also something Santa would put in their stockings if they landed on the nice list!
I’m talking legitimately useful, non-junky, hiking enthusiast-worthy ideas. So here goes.
Tool Ideas
The best gifts are the ones of preparation. You gotta always be ready to conquer challenges on the trail.
That’s why having the right multitools or handy knife in your backpack is a great practical gift idea.
Versatility is key when out in the wilderness, and a multitool that combines essential functions such as a knife, pliers, and screwdriver can be extremely helpful.
Heck, even just having a pocket knife can save you in a pinch.
Product Recommendation
| Brand | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fangfo | Multitool | Stainless steel, 14 tools in one | $11.97 |
| Good Worker | Compact | Serrated Blade Folding Knife, 2.95″ | $9.90 |
Hydration Ideas
Are you tired of carrying heavy water bottles while hiking? We all know that staying hydrated is the key to life but bulky water bottles can be a pain to lug around.
Luckily, someone came up with a solution: collapsible water bottles. Free up room in your hiking backpack for yummy trail snacks instead! These lightweight, foldable containers make for great gifts and won’t weigh down day packs.
Also, hydration tablets can be a lifesaver when it comes to losing electrolytes through sweating. I can’t tell you how much these came in handy when we hiked Zion National Park in the dead heat of summer. Boy was I glad I threw these in my fanny pack at the last minute!
Product Recommendation
| Brand | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrapak | Stow Collapsible | 17oz capacity, collapsible design | $16.00 |
| Platypus | SoftBottle | Flexible and foldable, BPA-free | $9.95 |
| Nuun | Sport Hydration | Electrolyte Tablets for Proactive Hydration | $12.00 |
Cold Weather Ideas
Let’s face it. Being cold and sometimes damp can make outdoor adventures suck; however, a true outdoor lover will push past the bitter cold to conquer icy trails and fresh snow.
Why not get a nice gift to make it a little more comfortable? Keeping warm on chilly hikes makes the outdoor experience sooo much better.
If you or your hiker friend are planning a backpacking trip in cold weather, there are a few excellent gift ideas to make that trip a cozy one.
For instance, compact hand warmers, thermal socks, and comfy knit hats are relatively inexpensive gift options to stay warm without adding extra weight to the hiking trip.
Product Recommendation
| Product Type | Brand | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hand Warmers | HotHands | Hand Warmer 10-Pack | Up to 10 hours of heat, disposable | $6.99 |
| Thermal Socks | Heat Holders | Men’s/Women’s Original | High-performance insulation, various colors | $18.99 |
| Knit Hat | Magisdu | Merino Wool Beanie | Merino wool, fleece-lined | $12.99 |
Lighting Ideas
I experienced times when the sun set behind a mountain or a storm blew in out of nowhere and a day hiking excursion quickly turned darker.
Or, maybe you just love going on a nighttime hike, stargazing, or cave exploring. There’s so much to explore in the great outdoors!
Regardless, having a reliable light source will keep you and your hiking friend safe.
That’s why compact and lightweight headlamps or clip-on LED lights make for the ultimate gift ideas. They come with adjustable brightness settings and long battery life, making them an ideal stocking stuffer for all outdoors enthusiasts.
Product Recommendation
| Brand | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mioisy | Spot Headlamp | 2 Pack, Waterproof, adjustable brightness, red night-vision | $15.99 |
| Innofox | LED Light | 2 Pack, Clip-on design, 150 lumens, USB rechargeable | $19.99 |
Technology Ideas
When you’re out hiking, it’s essential to keep your phone safe from the elements. You don’t want it getting wet or running out of battery. Otherwise, it won’t be inexpensive hiking gifts you’ll be buying, it’ll be a new phone!
That’s why most hikers should consider getting a waterproof phone pouch and a solar-powered charger. They’re practical and make a great stocking stuffer. They’ll keep your phone protected and powered up on your next outdoor adventure.
Product Recommendation
| Brand | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| JOTO | Universal Waterproof | Fits most smartphones, clear window, IPX8 waterproof | $7.99 |
| Nuynix | Solar Power Bank | 38,800mAh capacity, solar recharge, dual USB ports, flashlight | $19.19 |
Nutrition Ideas
Avoid the “hangry” monster with some easy energy snacks! I mean, who doesn’t love food gifts? I know it doesn’t sound like the most fantastic gift but I’m here to tell you that outdoor enthusiasts love and need high-quality hiking snacks.
When it comes to hiking, my go-to essential is to have the right snacks to keep my energy levels up. I’m really sensitive to blood sugar crashes so having consistent healthy carbs, fats, and proteins during day hikes is priceless.
Hiking and backpacking trips require sustained energy, and the right food can make a significant difference.
So, if you’re planning a hike soon, consider stocking up on some trail mix, energy bars, and dehydrated fruits for quick and nutritious fuel on the go.
Trail mix is an excellent option for hikers as it’s lightweight and easy to carry. It’s a mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits that provide a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
Energy bars are another great option, and there are many varieties available on the market. Look for bars that are high in protein and have a good balance of carbohydrates and fats to keep you going for longer.
Dehydrated fruits are also a good source of energy for hikers. They are lightweight, easy to pack, and provide a quick boost of energy. You can find a variety of dehydrated fruits such as apples, bananas, and strawberries. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals that your body needs during a hike.
Product Recommendation
| Brand | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kind | Healthy Grains Bars | Gluten-free, non-GMO, Cranberry Almond | $14.00 |
| Nature’s Garden | Trail Mix | Non-GMO, no artificial colors or flavors | $13.50 |
Photography Ideas
If you are planning to document your hiking adventures or camping trips, you can consider investing in compact and durable cameras or smartphone accessories that can help you capture the beauty of national parks.
Camera accessories make for unique hiking gift ideas. Smartphone accessories such as clip-on lenses, tripods, and remote triggers can help you improve the quality and composition of your phone camera shots.
When choosing an accessory, make sure you opt for one that is easy to use and fits your budget, so that you can focus on enjoying the outdoors and capturing memories that will last a lifetime.
Product Recommendation
| Brand | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soinsun | HERO Session | Waterproof housing case with bracket accessories | $12.99 |
| Joby | GorillaPod | Flexible tripod, compact design, universal smartphone mount | $17.00 |
Eco-Friendly Ideas
As a nature lover, an obsessor of national parks, and a conscious consumer, it’s important to choose environmentally friendly products.
When it comes to backpacking gear, there are plenty of eco-friendly options that can help reduce your carbon footprint without compromising on quality.
Opting for a fun gift that’s also made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo or recycled fabrics, is a great way to show your love for nature and all national parks while enjoying your hiking trips.
These materials are not only eco-friendly but also durable and long-lasting, making them a practical choice for the best hiking gifts.
So, if you’re looking for a way to make your hiking gear more sustainable, consider adding some eco-friendly options to your list of the perfect gift and gear collection.
Product Recommendation
| Product Type | Brand | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Utensil Set | To-Go Ware | Bamboo Utensil Set with Holder | Lightweight, includes fork, knife, spoon, and chopsticks | $13.50 |
| Spork | Outxe | Titanium Ultra Lightweight Utensil | 2 Pack, Eco-Friendly, Titanium Spork | $15.99 |
Navigation Ideas
When it comes to hiking, navigation, and learning how to read trail maps are key factors that can make or break your experience.
With these skills, you can also help fellow hikers. To ensure that you stay on track and reach your destination safely, it’s important to equip yourself with the right tools and know how to use them.
One of the best gifts for hikers is a quality compass. It can provide accurate and reliable guidance in challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.
You want a device that is user-friendly and intuitive so that you can focus on enjoying your hike without getting bogged down by complicated instructions.
Overall, having a reliable navigation tool and reading up on how to safely navigate your way through the woods even without these tools on hand can give you peace of mind.
Whether you opt for a traditional compass or a high-tech GPS tracker, make sure to choose a device that suits your needs and preferences, and that you feel confident using in a variety of outdoor settings.
Product Recommendation
| Brand | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Costin | Multifunctional Compass | Metal military waterproof, distance calculater | $14.00 |
| Book | Essential Wilderness Navigation | A Real World Guide to Finding Your Way Safely in the Woods With or Without a Map, Compass or GPS | $16.00 |
Cleaning Accessory Ideas
Taking proper care of hiking boots is important to ensure they last for a long time. Therefore, it is a top priority to maintain them regularly.
One way to maintain hiking boots is by products designed to protect and enhance their quality. For instance, waterproofing spray can be used to prevent water damage, while moisture-wicking insoles can help keep feet dry and comfortable.
Additionally, compact boot brushes can come in handy for removing dirt and debris from the boots. These thoughtful gifts for hikers can make a big difference in the lifespan of hiking boots and the overall outdoor journey.
Product Recommendation
| Product Type | Brand | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof Spray | Nikwax | Fabric and Leather Proof | Adds water repellency, extends life of footwear | $17.95 |
| Insoles | Walk-Hero | Plantar Fasciitis Feet Insoles | High-arch support, odor control, various sizes | $19.99 |
| Boot Brush | Shacke | Compact Boot Brush | Wooden handle, sturdy bristles | $9.99 |
Final Thoughts: Best Outdoorsy Stocking Stuffers Under $20
If you’re looking to make your outdoor enthusiast friend’s national park excursion, winter hiking adventure, or car camping experience more enjoyable and practical, then these unique hiking gifts are the perfect choice.
Not only are they affordable, but they are also thoughtful gifts for hikers that your friend will truly appreciate.
So, whether you’re shopping for an outdoor gear extraordinaire or simply just treating yourself, be sure to take a peek through our collection of practical and fun hiking gifts that are sure to be a hit on and off the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are these gifts suitable for all types of hikers?
Yes, the curated list includes a variety of items catering to different preferences and needs, making them suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.
2. Can I find these products in local stores?
Most of the recommended products can be found in outdoor and camping stores, as well as online retailers. Check local stores or popular online platforms for availability.
3. Are the eco-friendly options durable?
Yes, the eco-friendly options recommended are made from durable materials such as bamboo and recycled fabrics, ensuring longevity and sustainability.
4. Can I use the navigation tools for other outdoor activities?
Absolutely! The compact navigation tools recommended, like compasses and GPS trackers, are versatile and can be used for various outdoor activities beyond hiking.
5. Are the lighting options suitable for night photography?
While they are not specifically designed for professional photography, the recommended lighting options provide ample illumination for night hikes and casual photography.
6. Are the snacks suitable for specific dietary preferences?
Yes, the recommended snacks include options that cater to various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and non-GMO choices.
7. Can I find additional stocking stuffers under $20 for hikers?
Certainly! The list of hiking gifts provides a starting point, but there are numerous other budget-friendly options available to enhance the hiking experience.
