21 Stocking Stuffers that hikers and backpackers actually want

As the holiday season approaches, many of us start planning and shopping for the perfect big-ticket gifts for our loved ones. But often, stocking stuffers end up as an afterthought, with last-minute grabs from the grocery store checkout aisle. While candy canes and chocolates are holiday staples we all enjoy, this year, why not be more intentional and thoughtful with your stocking stuffers? Instead of the usual fare, consider items that are both practical and heartfelt, adding a touch of joy and usefulness to your loved ones’ holiday experience. Here are some unique and thoughtful stocking stuffer ideas for the hikers and campers in your life.

1. National Parks Stickers and Decals

The GEOPROJECT Insulated Water-Resistant Rip-Proof Snag-Resistant Sticker Pack adds a touch of adventure to your water bottle. Featuring 63 hand-illustrated National Park stickers, this set is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The durable, water-resistant vinyl material ensures your stickers stay put through all your adventures

2. Gear Repair Tape

Gear Aid tenacious ultra-reliable repair tape is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts. Perfect for fixing rips, holes, and tears in your gear, it ensures that you’re always prepared for unexpected equipment damage. Durable and versatile, it’s an essential addition to any adventurer’s toolkit.

3. Hiker’s Long Spoon

The Hiker’s Gold Ultralight Titanium Spoon for Hiking, Backpacking, Camping is an ingenious long spoon that makes it easy to reach every last bite in deep freeze-dried meal bags, keeping your hands clean and mess-free. This the ultimate tool for every outdoor enthusiast. At just 16 grams, its sleek and sturdy design ensures you can enjoy your meals without the extra weight. Perfect for hiking, backpacking, and camping, this spoon will become your trusted companion on all your adventures.

4. Hiking Boot Socks

Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Socks are renowned for their unmatched durability and superior quality, these socks provide exceptional warmth and comfort, making them a perfect choice for outdoor adventures. Built to withstand the toughest conditions, Darn Tough Socks ensure that your feet stay cozy and protected, hike after hike. Get my favorite Women’s version here.

5. Collapsible Camp Cup

Sea to Summit Detour Stainless Steel Collapsible 16 Ounce Camp Mug: This lightweight, durable mug is perfect for on-the-go adventurers. It collapses for easy storage and features Cool-Grip fins for a comfortable hold, making it ideal for enjoying hot or cold drinks while camping.

6. Mini LED Lantern

The LuminAID PackLite Nova USB Lantern lights up your adventures with its inflatable, solar-powered design. Lightweight, waterproof, and dustproof, it’s perfect for camping, hiking, or emergency kits. With 75 lumens on Turbo mode and up to 24 hours on Low mode, it ensures you have reliable light wherever you go.

7. Paracord Survival Bracelet

The Atomic Bear Paracord Bracelet ensures you’re prepared for any outdoor adventure with its fire starter, loud emergency whistle, compass, emergency knife, and 12 feet of military-grade paracord. Lightweight and adjustable, it’s perfect for hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting

8. Carabiner Clips

The Nite Ize S-Biner SlideLock Stainless Steel Dual Locking Carabiner is a versatile and secure solution for all your gear needs. With its dual locking mechanisms, it ensures your items stay safely attached. Made from durable stainless steel, it’s perfect for camping, hiking, and everyday use.

9. Collapsible Water Bottle

The Hydrapak Flux Collapsible Backpacking Water Bottle offers a convenient and space-saving hydration solution for your outdoor adventures. This lightweight bottle collapses down to save space in your pack and features a spill-proof twist cap. With a capacity of 1 liter, it’s perfect for backpacking, hiking, and travel.

10. Quick-dry Towel

The BOGI Microfiber Travel Sports Towel is your perfect companion for any adventure. This quick-dry towel is super absorbent, lightweight, and compact, making it ideal for travel, sports, and outdoor activities. Its soft texture and durable material ensure a comfortable and long-lasting experience. Note: These come in different sizes but we use the medium 40″ x 20″.

11. Fire Starter

The überleben Hexå Ferro Rod Fire Starter is an essential tool for any survival kit. Designed for reliable performance, this fire starter features a unique hexagonal shape for a secure grip and produces a shower of sparks to ignite your fire quickly. It’s perfect for camping, hiking, and emergency situations, ensuring you can always stay warm and cook your food.

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12. Neck Gaiter / Head Wrap

The BUFF ThermoNet Neck Gaiter is designed to keep you warm and comfortable in cold weather. This moisture-wicking, breathable, and versatile neck warmer also doubles as a thermal cold weather face mask, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Its adult size ensures a snug and comfortable fit for all your winter adventures.

13. Mini Rechargeable Air Pump

The FLEXTAILGEAR Tiny and Portable Air Pump is an ultra-mini pump that is perfect for inflating and deflating pool floats, air beds, mattresses, and more. With its 1300mAh rechargeable battery, USB charging, and lightweight design, it’s an essential tool for camping, hiking, and travel.

14. Emergency Blanket

The Don’t Die in the Woods Emergency Sleeping Bag with Hood is a must-have for any survival kit. Made from extra-thick mylar material, it retains 90% of body heat to keep you warm in emergency situations. Lightweight and compact, it’s perfect for hiking, camping, and backpacking, ensuring you stay safe and protected in the great outdoors.

15. Rechargeable Handwarmers

The OCOOPA Magnetic Hand Warmers Rechargeable 2 Pack offers convenient and reliable warmth for cold days. Featuring magnetic connectivity, these hand warmers can be easily attached together or separated for use. With a long-lasting rechargeable battery, they’re perfect for outdoor activities, commuting, and emergency situations. Stay warm and cozy no matter where you are.

16. Campfire Christmas Ornament

The Noble Gems Campfire Glass Christmas Tree Ornament brings the warmth of a cozy campfire to your holiday decor. Handcrafted from glass, this detailed ornament captures the essence of outdoor adventures and adds a charming touch to your Christmas tree. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and those who cherish memories of camping trips.

17. Mini Art Kit

The Funto Travel Watercolor Set is perfect for creatives on the go. This comprehensive set includes 12 vibrant watercolor paints, 10 premium postcards, a brush, brush pen, fineliner, and pencil, catering to adults, beginners, and artists. Compact and portable, it’s ideal for capturing inspiration wherever you are.

18. Expandable Towelettes

These coin tissues or compressed towels, also known as toilet paper tablets, are perfect for camping, hiking, and everyday use. These might seem like a strange gift, but trust me, they will love them. Soft, odor-free, and expandable with water, they come in a convenient pack of 100 with two waterproof carrying cases.

19. Inflatable Pillow

The Klymit Luxe Travel Pillow is your ultimate travel companion for a good night’s sleep on the go. Designed with luxurious comfort in mind, this lightweight and compact pillow offers superior support and is easy to pack. Perfect for camping, long flights, or road trips, it ensures you rest comfortably wherever your adventures take you.

20. Bug Repeller

The Thermacell Mosquito Backpacker Repeller, Gen 2.0 provides up to 16 hours of DEET-free mosquito protection in a 15-foot zone. Lightweight and compact, it’s perfect for backpacking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Its scent-free repellent ensures a comfortable and bite-free experience.

21. Trail Snacks

The Taos Bakes Variety Pack offers a delicious and nutritious selection of breakfast bars. Packed with high protein and high fiber, these gluten-free and non-GMO granola bars are perfect for adults and kids alike. Each 12-pack includes 1.8oz bars, making them an ideal healthy snack for on-the-go or trail mix adventures.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of incredible stocking stuffers for the hikers and campers in your life. These 21 thoughtfully curated items offer both practicality and delight, ensuring that every adventure is met with the right gear and a bit of joy. Each item on this list is either something I personally have and love or is on my own wish list— I would never recommend something I wouldn’t use myself.

Please note that these are affiliate links, and I may receive a small compensation if you make a purchase through them. This helps support my work and allows me to continue providing valuable content.

I’d love to hear from you! Comment below with your favorite stocking stuffer or if you think I missed anything great. And don’t forget to share this post on social media, pin it, or email it to a loved one to spread the holiday cheer and help your fellow adventurers find the perfect gifts. So, fill those stockings with these fantastic finds and make this holiday season unforgettable for your favorite outdoor enthusiasts.

graphic showing 21 christmas stocking stuffer ideas for campers and hikers

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