Finding the perfect gift for a backpacker can be tricky. They’re often particular about their gear and prefer practical items that truly enhance their outdoor experience. Generic gifts like jackets or tents might not hit the mark unless you know exactly what they need.
Backpacking involves a lot of specialized equipment, so choosing something versatile and reliable makes all the difference.
Whether the recipient is a seasoned adventurer or just starting out, gifts that combine functionality with durability are sure to be appreciated.
This guide highlights 10 carefully selected gifts that backpackers will actually use. Each item has been chosen for its practicality and quality, ensuring it can withstand the demands of the trail and become a trusted part of any backpacker’s kit.
1. Travel Water Bottles
Travel water bottles are essential for backpackers to stay hydrated on the trail. Lightweight, durable, and easy to carry bottles like those made from BPA-free plastic or stainless steel ensure clean drinking water anywhere.
Features such as wide mouths for easy filling, insulation for temperature control, and compatibility with water filters make these bottles highly practical.
Gifting a versatile water bottle guarantees a backpacker will have reliable hydration gear for every adventure.
2. Waterproof Bag Cover
Waterproof bag covers protect backpacks from rain, mud, and snow, keeping gear dry and secure. They are lightweight, easy to pack, and fit various backpack sizes.
Look for covers made from durable ripstop nylon with sealed seams for maximum water resistance. Reflective details enhance safety during low-visibility conditions.
A reliable waterproof cover ensures a backpacker’s valuables stay dry in unpredictable weather, making it an essential and practical gift.
3. Anker Portable Charger
Anker’s 20,000mAh portable charger is a must-have for backpackers relying on electronics. It charges an iPhone up to four times, making it ideal for long trips without access to power.
Though not the lightest, it provides reliable energy for phones, GPS devices, and rechargeable headlamps.
Users should charge it fully overnight, as it takes about 10 hours to reach full capacity, ensuring uninterrupted use on the trail.
4. Hydration Electrolytes
Backpackers benefit from balanced electrolyte drink packets that encourage hydration and replenish vital vitamins often missing in trail diets.
These packets, favored in flavors like strawberry, provide a tasty alternative to plain water. Adding calorie-dense energy gels with sodium and electrolytes boosts stamina with minimal effort.
Carrying both ensures consistent hydration and quick energy, essential for long and strenuous backpacking trips.
5. Mountain Equipment Rupal
The Mountain Equipment Rupal sleeping bag offers exceptional warmth and comfort for backpackers in cold conditions.
Crafted with lightweight, durable materials and high-quality goose down insulation, it packs small without sacrificing heat retention.
Its mummy shape reduces weight while maximizing thermal efficiency. Featuring a draft collar and adjustable hood, it seals in warmth on chilly nights.
This sleeping bag’s reliable performance and compact design make it an essential, long-lasting gift any backpacker will appreciate.
6. Salomon Walking Boots/Shoes
Salomon walking boots and shoes deliver exceptional support and durability for backpackers tackling rugged trails. Designed with advanced grip technology, they provide reliable traction on wet and uneven terrain.
Crafted from lightweight, breathable materials, these boots reduce fatigue while protecting feet from moisture and debris.
Their ergonomic fit ensures comfort on long hikes, making Salomon footwear an essential gift that blends performance with lasting usability.
7. PacSafe Net
Backpackers rely on the PacSafe Net to secure their gear when camping or staying in hostels. This lightweight, stainless steel mesh locks around backpacks or valuables, preventing theft with cut-resistant cables and tamper-proof locks.
Designed for portability, it easily fits inside packs without adding bulk. Its practical security offers peace of mind, making it a trusted gift that active adventurers consistently use on the trail.
8. Icebreaker Merino Top
Choose the Icebreaker Merino top for a versatile base layer that adapts to various climates. Crafted from soft, breathable merino wool, it naturally regulates temperature and wicks moisture, keeping backpackers comfortable during intense hikes.
Layering it under jackets or wearing it solo, this durable top resists odors and requires minimal washing—perfect for extended trips. Its lightweight design packs easily, making it a practical gift that backpackers will rely on season after season.
9. Workaway Subscription and Free 3 Months
Gift a Workaway subscription with three free months to connect backpackers to global volunteering opportunities.
They can exchange work for accommodation, saving money and gaining unique cultural experiences.
To set it up, purchase the subscription on the Workaway website and provide the recipient’s email for activation. This gift encourages sustainable travel and enriches their adventures with meaningful, hands-on projects worldwide.
10. Expensive Essentials
Choosing pricey yet vital gear can elevate a backpacker’s experience substantially. High-end items like ultralight tents, premium sleeping bags, or advanced water filtration systems deliver durability and performance that justify their cost.
These essentials offer long-term reliability on challenging trails, making them worthwhile investments. Gifting such quality gear ensures backpackers stay comfortable, safe, and prepared no matter the conditions.
Alicia Richards