Finding the perfect gift for a woman who loves the outdoors can be a challenge. Kristen’s friends and family have this issue every year, but here’s what she’s learned after years of testing outdoor equipment on trails, beaches, mountains and campsites – the best gifts aren’t expensive specialist items, they are thoughtful yet practical upgrades that genuinely improve her comfort and safety in the backcountry.
Since we first published this guide in 2020 and with every update since, we’ve seen a pattern of what our readers are buying – simple, useful gifts that solve problems without breaking the bank. That’s why we’ve completely overhauled this guide for the 2025 holiday season, focusing on 40 affordable field-tested items we actually use in the wilderness.
Hi, we’re Mark and Kristen Morgan. We left our science careers in 2018 to become travel writers and photographers, and since then our expert guides have helped millions of travel planners take better trips. Read more about us.
Why trust us with finding the right gift? We’ve lived, hiked, and camped across 4 continents, putting countless outdoor products to the test. We know what works, what doesn’t and what your loved one really needs.
Every product on this list has earned a permanent spot in our backpacks through real-world testing from the Pacific Northwest to Patagonia. We’ve organized the items we love into five main categories based on an outdoor woman’s needs, so you can quickly find exactly what you’re looking for.
From blister-preventing Darn Tough Socks to the game-changing Kula Cloth for backcountry bathroom breaks, these are the gifts that can actually make a difference outdoors.
Note: Our content is reader supported and contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you and it helps us keep this site running.
🧤Trail Comfort + Gear Upgrades
The right accessory can make or break any outdoor adventure. We learned this the hard way after thousands of miles on the trail. Our first category features the comfort upgrades and problem-solving essentials Kristen uses for all of our trips from moisture-wicking base layers to smart organizational gear. These aren’t the flashy headline items, but they are the ones that separate a miserable day from an amazing one.
After years of testing our gear across different climates and conditions, we’ve narrowed it down to eight proven essentials to help solve those annoying everyday problems outdoorsy women face. Whether she needs warm gloves for freezing summit mornings or a collapsible cart to haul things around the campsite, these practical items will improve her outdoor experience.
1. Darn Tough Socks
If there’s only one product you seriously consider on this list, let it be these Darn Tough Socks. When we first started hiking, we underestimated the importance of a good sock and made the rookie mistake of wearing cheap cotton blends. We unnecessarily suffered through miles of painful blisters. Then we finally bought our first pair of Darn Toughs in 2021, and haven’t had a blister since.
Made from merino wool, these socks help to regulate temperature and wick away sweat so our feet are comfortable in both hot and dry climates. They are also great at resisting odor on multi-day trips. Kristen now refuses to hike without them and pretty much owns every pattern available including the Bear Town (pictured) and Critter Club designs. They’re our top recommendation for any outdoor lover because they come with a lifetime guarantee, making them the best value in hiking gear.
Price: $22.00-$30.00
>> BUY: Amazon | REI | Darn Tough
2. CoolNet UV Buff
Buffs are one of the most versatile pieces of gear we own because they can be worn in 12 different ways including as a headband, bandana, balaclava or neck gaiter. We’ve used our buffs all around the world from high-altitude trails in La Paz, Bolivia to desert hikes in the American Southwest. They’ve been great for protecting us from the sun and excess dust.
We like the CoolNet UV fabric because it blocks 95% of harmful UV rays while wicking away sweat to keep us dry when we’re on exposed ridgelines or scrambling on the rocks. Kristen always tosses a buff into her day bag because it weighs practically nothing. We think this is a small gift that packs a big punch and your outdoorsy woman will find herself constantly reaching for it.
Price: $20.00-$35.00
3. FURTALK Beanie Hat
Kristen is obsessed with these FURTALK beanies. After buying one in red, she immediately ordered three more colors because they’re that good! The slouchy fit keeps her ears warm without messing up her hair so she can head straight from a sunrise hike into town for breakfast.
Made from soft acrylic yarn, she thinks these beanies are warm enough for cold mornings on the trail, but breathable so she doesn’t overheat once the sun comes over the horizon. The pom also adds a cute touch that makes them perfect for just about any occasion. Kristen rotates between her black, grey, white and red hat depending on her outfit. It’s become her most worn cold weather accessory because it blends warmth, style and function flawlessly.
Price: $20.00
>> BUY: Amazon
4. North Face Etip Gloves
Over the years, we’ve tested countless pairs of gloves and always keep coming back to the North Face Brand for it’s durability. We like these Etip gloves because they have a unique touch-screen compatibility so Kristen can take a quick photo or glance at her navigation app without exposing her hands to the elements.
In addition to the tech aspect, Etip gloves are also incredibly versatile. They can be worn on their own or can be worn as a base layer under thicker gloves for colder temperatures. Any outdoor woman will appreciate the fact these gloves are made from recycled polyester fleece. We both own a black pair and they’ve held up extremely well after seasons of use. If your girl prefers something a little more vibrant, shop various colors at Amazon.
Price: $45.00
5. Goodr Sunglasses
After Mark’s expensive Ray-Bans were stolen from our hotel room in Singapore, we made the switch to Goodr sunglasses and haven’t looked back. These $25 affordable shades offer 100% UV protection and polarized lenses without the price tag of a designer brand.
But what sold us were the thousands of reviews raving about the no-slip fit. We have to agree they actually stay in place during runs, long hikes and sweaty rock scrambles. Kristen loves the fun colors and patterns, plus at this price point we bought multiple pairs without a worry. The best part is if we lose or break them, it’s only a $25 replacement.
Price: $25.00-$35.00
6. YETI Water Bottle Sling
We hate having to dig a water bottle out of our backpack and these water bottle slings solve that exact problem. Kristen likes having her water instantly accessible so both of her hands are free to wrangle our toddler during walks. The adjustable strap is incredibly comfortable and the insulated sleeve keeps her water ice cold through our hot North Carolina summers.
Keep in mind, we do not recommend it for long-thru hikes, but it’s a great addition for everyday adventures. While the version pictured is specifically designed for the YETI Rambler, similar slings are available for HydroFlask, Stanley and other popular water bottles. Click here to see more options. This small upgrade truly makes a huge difference!
Price: $35.00 – $40.00
7. Smartwool Headband
Kristen brought her Smartwool Headband on our first US road trip in 2018, and seven years later, it’s still something she uses on a cold morning. This merino wool headband is extremely versatile and her ears stayed warm on a many chilly mornings in Bryce Canyon without overheating her head.
The natural-moisture wicking properties keep her comfortable even when she’s sweating and quickly dries when it gets wet. On brutally cold days, Kristen also likes to layer it under her beanie (item #3) for extra warmth and the reversible designs means she can have two looks in one. We think this is a great gift for a woman who loves fall and spring hikes when the temperatures drastically fluctuates throughout the day.
Price: $25.00
8. Collapsible Wagon Cart
We bought this collapsable wagon cart in 2023, and it has become one of our most used items for every day life. From groceries and baby gear to packages and gardening, we use this cart multiple times a week. Kristen likes it because she can easily load everything into the wagon and make just one trip.
While it’s certainly not a practical item for the trail, it’s a total game-changer for the campsite or a day at the beach. We think the oversized wheels handle rough terrain surprisingly well and it folds completely flat for storage. If your outdoorsy woman is a frequent car camper, festival-goer, or beach addict, this is a practical gift she’ll use in more ways than you’d expect.
Price: $45.00 (black color usually cheapest)
>> BUY: Amazon
In the wilderness, safety isn’t an option, it’s everything. And after years of backcountry travel, we’ve learned you need a back up plan for your back up plans. What if your phone dies? The trail markers disappear? The weather changes too fast? The gifts in this category provide critical redundancy every outdoor woman needs when things don’t go as planned.
These aren’t the flashy items that make cool Instagram posts, but they’re items we never leave home without. From offline navigation apps that work when cell service doesn’t to first aid supplies for handling injuries miles from the trailhead, these tools will build your woman’s confidence and competence in the wilderness. These are the gifts that can a make a difference between a scary moment and a dangerous situation.
9. Trail Map Subscription
A premium map subscription is the single most important safety upgrade any hiker can make. It’s crucial if she’s planning to venture beyond a crowded trailhead. We always recommend carrying paper maps as back up, but our Gaia GPS trail map subscription allows us to download detailed topographic maps that work offline when cell services disappears, like during our hike to The Wave in Arizona.
The two most popular subscriptions are AllTrails+ and Gaia GPS. We think there are pros and cons to both so you can read more about our hiking app comparison here. Beyond emergencies, these subscriptions unlock features we use for gauging elevation profiles, trail condition reports, GPS tracking and marking custom waypoints like campsites or water sources. This is a gift that keeps on giving!
Price: $2.99-$4.99/month
>> BUY: AllTrails+ | Gaia GPS Premium
10. Astro 300 Headlamp
A headlamp isn’t just for reading in the tent, it’s one of the ten hiking essentials for those unexpected moments when the sun sets faster then you planned. After testing multiple headlamps over the years, we think the Black Diamond Astro 300 hits the sweet spot between performance and price.
One of our biggest fears is having a dead headlamp, but this one runs on both standard AAA batteries or a rechargeable BD 1500 Li-ion battery (sold separately) so we don’t have to worry about it anymore. This dual-fuel feature completely won us over. We’ve used the Astro 300 for everything from sunrise summit hikes to midnight bathroom runs, and it’s proven reliable in just about every weather condition possible. Every outdoor woman needs a dependable headlamp in her kit and this is one model we trust.
Price: $24.95
>> BUY: Amazon | REI | Black Diamond
11. Pro-Knot Outdoor Knots
Knowing how to tie a few essential knots isn’t just a nice skill, it’s a safety tool that can get you out of real situations in the wilderness. This waterproof six-card set has lived in Kristen’s backpack for years because it’s a quick guide with clear illustrations to help us tie critical knots in a matter of seconds. Each card is laminated so it will easily hold up to the elements.
We’ve used the Bowline knot for securing a bear bag and anchoring a tarp at our campsite. But it also includes the Trucker’s Hitch which is useful for strapping gear to any vehicle and the Clove Hitch which can help your girl temporarily hang clothes at a campsite. This is a low-cost gift requiring zero batteries, but teaches skills she’ll use for a lifetime.
Price: $6.75
12. Adventure Medical Kit
Another one of the 10 hiking essentials, a medical kit is one of the first things we pack when we head outdoors. We like the Adventure Medical series because it’s a pre-packaged bag with everything you need including trauma pads, blister supplies, tweezers and medications. There’s also a waterproof field guide filled with tips about treating common trail injuries like sprains, cuts, and insect stings.
We recommend this kit because every item is stored in a color-coded zippered pocket so you can always easily find what you need. When Kristen’s ankle swelled from a bee sting while hiking in Shenandoah National Park, we were able to quickly find antihistamines and wraps instead of digging through the entire kit which made the situation a lot less stressful. It’s the kind of gift you hope she never has to use, but will be grateful to have when something goes wrong.
Price: $32.95
13. GU Energy Gel
Energy gels aren’t just for runners, they’re really useful during long hikes when you need a quick energy boost. Mark has used GU gels for years while training for 10k’s, and we pack them for any trail over 8 miles in length or bring them on hikes with serious elevation gain like the Aasgard Pass in the Enchantments.
Each gel contains 100 calories of fast-absorbing carbs and essential electrolytes that start to kick in within 15 minutes. Not only do they energize you during strenuous activity, but they’re great for recovery. Kristen’s favorite flavors from this variety pack are Chocolate Outrage and Salted Caramel, or she’ll grab Espresso Love for an extra caffeine boost in the morning. All gels are vegan, gluten-free and kosher so shop now!
Price: $2.00-$48.00
14. Anker Power Bank
After owning several Anker products from headphones to speakers, we decided to try the Anker Power Bank because we always like to carry a back up power source. And at just 8.6oz, it’s light enough to justify bringing it on long hikes. We primarily use it to keep our phone and inReach communicator charged, but it’s also great for headlamps, cameras or any USB device.
This compact battery delivers about 2 full charges for an iPhone 16 which is perfect for a weekend away or a multi-day hike where we use our GPS navigation and take a lot of photos. The dual port allows you to charge two devices simultaneously and it can recharge in about 4 hours. We think this is an essential piece of gear for any trip over two days where you depend on electronics.
Price: $25.99
>> BUY: Amazon
15. Tick Remover
Growing up in upstate New York, Kristen learned to always check for ticks after hiking, and more importantly, how to remove them properly. The biggest mistake people make is using regular tweezers which can accidentally leave the tick’s head embedded in your skin where it can still transmit disease.
We like this specialized tick removal tool because it’s designed to scoop out the entire tick including the head and mouth without squeezing its body which pushes bacteria back into the bite. At less than $30 for a 6-pack, we’ve stashed them everywhere from our first aid kit, day pack, car and even toddler’s diaper bag. We highly recommend this tiny tool because it’s cheap insurance for preventative health.
Price: $5.99-$27.99
16. Pocket Bellows
If you’ve ever struggled to start a campfire while getting a face full of smoke, you need a pocket bellow. Even experienced campers have trouble with stubborn fires, and this small collapsible tool solves that frustration. The telescoping design directs the air exactly where the flames need it most without burning your hands or face.
It weights practically nothing so it’s perfect for throwing into a day bag as an emergency essential too. If you don’t believe us, check out the thousands of 5-star reviews. For anyone who loves to camp, this tiny tool turns fire-starting into a quick and painless process.
Price: $14.99
>> BUY: Amazon
☕ Hydration + Camp Kitchen
There’s honestly something magical about that first cup of coffee at sunrise or finally eating a hot meal after miles on the trail. But nothing kills the vibe faster than a finicky stove or realizing you have no way to purify water. It’s all about streamlining the process so you have exactly what you need and cooking is enjoyable, not a frustrating chore.
In the beginning, we brought way too much kitchen stuff until we figured out what actually mattered. Now we only pack the essentials like a compact stove to get water boiling fast and a water filter so we can drink safely from streams. This next category features gifts to help take the stress out of camp cooking so your girl can spend more time relaxing in the outdoors.
17. YETI Travel Mug
When you’re outside, there’s just something about a warm drink on a cold morning or a sip of ice-cold water after a long day on the beach. We think the YETI Rambler delivers on that promise better than any other tumbler we’ve tested. It’s double-walled vacuum insulation performs flawlessly keeping liquids hot or cold no matter the temperature outside.
Kristen refills her 35oz rambler multiples times a day and it’s become her go-to for everything. It’s pricier than generic tumblers, but Kristen’s YETI is still going strong after years of daily abuse and still performs like new. We think it’s worth every penny for someone who takes hydration seriously. Available in 25oz, 35oz and 42oz, plus multiple colors and lid styles to match her preference.
Price: $38.00-$45.00
18. LifeStraw
The LifeStraw is one of those deceptively simple products that can genuinely save your trip, or even your life. We’ve carried ours on trails all around the world since 2018 and it’s bailed us out more times than we can count when water sources were low or we questioned the water quality.
It works just like a regular straw so all you have to do is stick it in any water source and take a drink. The microfiltration membrane filters out 99.99% of bacteria and parasites instantly. Less than 2.0 ounces and about the size of a large marker, it takes up almost no space in our backpacks. Our LifeStraw gives us peace of mind when we’re relying on natural water sources in the backcountry. We honestly think this is one of the smartest investments you can make.
Price: $17.49-$24.95
19. Nalgene Water Bottle
A good water bottle is the foundation for any outdoor kit, and Nalgene bottles have been popular for decades. Kristen has been using one since she was a kid in gymnastics, and you’ll always find one in our backpack.
Nalgene is well known for it’s incredible durability. These bottles can survive repeated drops and extreme temperatures without cracking. The wide mouth design makes filling from steams easy and allows you to actually get your hand inside for proper cleaning. We like to pair our Nalgene with our LifeStraw every time we hike. Available in various colors and sizes from 16oz to 48oz, these bottles will outlast most of her other gear.
Price: $12.00-$16.99
20. Hammond’s Marshmallows
After a long day of adventuring the campfire isn’t just for cooking, it’s for relaxing. And while you can survive on jerky or dehydrated meals, we think bringing one small luxury can make all the difference. A friend gifted us these small-batch, gourmet marshmallow from Hammond’s and they’ve been a total game changer.
Now these aren’t your standard grocery store marshmallows because they’re fluffy, flavorful, and turn a simple s’more into something truly decadent. Kristen’s favorite flavors are vanilla bean and toasted coconut, but they also come in chocolate chip, strawberry creme and birthday cake. If your outdoorsy woman appreciates the little moments, these heavenly squares will make her smile.
Price: $5.50
21. Go Travel Coffee Press
Instant coffee just doesn’t cut it for us and that’s why our AeroPress Go is a justifiable luxury item. It’s changed our mornings completely because it brews 8oz of regular coffee or three espresso-style shots in under two minutes after the hot water has boiled.
What makes this product genius is the packable design. Everything nests together inside the travel mug including the plunger, stirrer, scoop, filters and lid all compressed into one tiny package smaller than a Nalgene bottle. We even bring this when we travel internationally because getting a good cup of coffee isn’t always easy. It’s also great for car camping, or backpacking where every oz matters.
Price: $49.95
22. MSR PocketRocket 2
We’ve used several different backpacking stoves over the years and the MSR PocketRocket 2 has become our favorite for its unbeatable combination of weight, speed and reliability. At just 2.6oz, it’s extremely lightweight and boils a liter of water in only 3.5 minutes.
We think the recessed burner is a great feature because its genuinely wind-resistant so the flame won’t go out when you’re cooking at an exposed campsite. It screws directly into a standard fuel canister, packs down to fit into your palm, and can accommodate a wide range of pot sizes. For any woman who is serious about ultralight backpacking, or just tired of a bulky stove system, this is the gold standard that won’t let her down.
Price: $59.95 (but usually $49.95 on Amazon)
23. Stasher Reusable Silicone Bags
Most outdoorsy women care about reducing waste, and Stasher reusable bags make it easy to ditch the single-use plastic bags without any hassle. These silicone bags have become a staple in our food prep because they’re reusable, BPA free and completely leakproof. Our daughter loves the bright colors and they’re always in our day bag when we need snacks on the go.
Beyond simple storage, we use our Stasher bags to pack out our dirty food waste during hikes. And when we get home, they can be rinsed easily with hot soapy water or popped into the dishwasher. While they’re pricier than disposable bags, they’ve lasted us through years of use. This is practical gear that will help your woman minimize her waste.
Price: $42.99
>> BUY: Amazon
24. Coleman Camp Chair
A basic camp chair is a classic item for any woman who loves the outdoors. While there are plenty of expensive models out there, we think you just need a simple chair to enjoy the campsite. We’ve had our Coleman camp chairs for years, hauling them to campsites all over the US and they’re still going strong.
While you’ll find $200 ultralight chairs with fancy features, this is all you need for car camping. We like this model because the mesh cup holder keeps drinks secure and the side pocket is great for storing practical items like a phone or headlamp. They fold up into a small carrying bag so your girl can bring it to camp, tailgates, sport events and picnics. It’s a no brainer budget pick that will last for years!
Price: $44.99-$54.99 (Amazon usually runs deals under $50.00)
🧼 Hygiene + Personal Use
Outdoor life isn’t always glamorous, but feeling uncomfortable doesn’t have to be part of the experience. We’ve learned feeling fresh truly makes everything better after spending days in the backcountry. A quick face wipe after a dusty hike or brushing your teeth properly at camp can go a long way.
This category features the small essentials Kristen uses to stay clean and comfortable. From Shower Steamers that provide much-needed recovery after a long day to our favorite Leave No Trace essentials to make bathroom situations way less awkward, these eight practical items can make a big difference.
25. Matador Soap Bar Case
Anyone who’s traveled with soap bars knows the frustration of slimy plastic cases or bars turning to mush and leaking everywhere in your toiletry bag. We think the Madator Soap Bar Case actually solves this problem with a simple design.
The secret is Dry-Through technology allowing the bar of soap to dry through the fabric without any leakage. Kristen was skeptical at first, but it’s been great for both backpacking trips and international travel. The roll-top is also adaptable for every size of soap bar. It’s a great gift for any woman who prefers bar soap over liquid because she can toss it in her bag without worry.
Price: $13.95
26. Shower Steamers
A friend gifted Kristen these Shower Steamers years ago for a road trip, and honestly we almost left them behind because they seemed like an unnecessary luxury. Then after a brutal 10 mile hike followed by hours of driving, Kristen tried one and was immediately grateful we brought them last minute. They’ve since become one of our most purchased items from this entire guide.
These aren’t just fancy bath products, they’re concentrated aromatherapy tablets designed for muscle and respiratory relief. Drop one in the corner of a hot shower, and the steam becomes infused with essential oils creating a DIY steam room. Each tablet lasts about 15 minutes, which is the perfect amount of time to compress before bed. This is a quick self-care tool any woman would love.
Price: $9.99-$24.69
>> BUY: Amazon
27. Kula Cloth
One of the most annoying problems women face outdoors is what to do when nature calls miles from a bathroom. Kristen thinks the Kula Cloth is arguably the most essential piece of gear for women planning multi-day outdoorsy trips. It solves the common problem of packing out used toilet paper (leaving it behind damages the environment).
This reusable pee cloth is made with Antimicrobial Silvadur™ silver ion–infused absorbent materials to help it stay fresh after multiple uses. The dimpled side soaks up moisture to prevent bacterial growth and odor. It also clips to the side of a backpack so it drys quicker in between uses. After switching to the Kula Cloth years ago, Kristen has never looked back. She even keeps one in her purse for sketchy public restrooms with no toiler paper.
Price: $22.95-$25.00
>> BUY: Kula Cloth | REI
28. Pure-Castile Magic Soap
Dr Bronner’s soap is a staple for us because one bottle can be used for pretty much everything from body wash and hand soap to dish cleaner and laundry detergent. The concentrated formula lets a few drops go a long way, making it incredibly efficient for outdoor life.
What sets it apart from the rest is the ingredient list. It’s made with organic oils and no synthetic detergents, dyes or harsh chemicals. Kristen has eczema and most soaps trigger flare ups, but Dr. Bronner’s leaves her skin feeling soft instead of itchy. It’s also biodegradable so it’s a great item for the campsite. We buy the large bottle and refill small travel size containers (like these ones) for any trip.
Price: $4.50-$32.49
29. Tenacious Tape
No one wants a ripped puffer jacket on a freezing summit or a torn tent during a rainstorm. From our vast adventures in the great outdoors, we’ve learned gear failures always happen at the last moment. This is why we always pack a role of Tenacious Tape in our bag. The heavy-duty adhesive is designed to create a permanent, waterproof seal on almost any fabric and it’s saved us multiple times when our gear gave out.
Years ago when we were traveling through Asia, a cat scratched a gaping hole in Mark’s Osprey Farpoint 40. But we slapped a patch of Tenacious Tape on it and it’s still holding strong after many more trips. We like the small roll so we can cut custom-sized pieces for whatever we need, but it also comes in pre-cut patches if your girl would prefer to decorate her gear.
Price: $7.95-$17.95
30. Nomadix Towel
We never recommend standard cotton towels for any outdoor adventure because they’re bulky, heavy when wet, often smelly after one use, and they take forever to dry. When we’re traveling or headed into the backcountry, we always pack a microfiber towel because they’re super lightweight and incredibly quick-drying.
Made from a combination of post-consumer recycled plastics and nylon, we like Nomadix Towels because they dry in a fraction of the time. We’ve used our towels for just about everything, and the best part is they never have that gross mildew smell even when stuffed in our bag still damp. Available in multiple sizes and patterns, these are ideal for any woman who camps or travels.
Price: $39.95
31. Rechargeable Hand Warmers
Kristen hates when her fingers go numb during a sunrise hike and these rechargeable hand warmers are a small luxury that make a surprisingly big difference without the waste of disposable heat packets. There are three different heat setting so she can crank them up or down depending on her needs.
On one single charge, these babies will stay hot for hours, especially when placed on the lowest setting. They can recharge in about 3 hours with a USB-C and fit easily into jacket pocket or pair of gloves. After multiple seasons of use, they’ve more than paid for themselves. Perfect for anyone with perpetually cold hands or early morning photo shoots when temperatures are freezing.
Price: $15.99-$26.99
>> BUY: Amazon
32. Picnic Blanket
Not every outdoor adventure has to be a lung busting 10 mile hike into the wilderness. Some of our best days have been casual picnics in a state park, a day out at the beach or an evening watching a sunset. We purchased this cute picnic blanket last year, and it’s become one of our most-loved items because it gives us a clean spot to relax just about anywhere.
The waterproof backing is what makes this blanket extremely functional because it keeps us dry no matter where we put it down. It’s large enough to fit 3-4 adults comfortably, and folds up easily so we can carry it everywhere. We own the blue stripe blanket and love how good it looks in photos, while being durable enough to handle real outdoor use, especially with our toddler.
Price: $21.99-$29.99
>> BUY: Amazon
🎄 Stocking Stuffers + Small Luxuries
Sometimes the smallest gifts make the biggest impact, which is the goal with our final section. This category features thoughtful, budget-friendly items that can add a touch of comfort or inspiration to outdoor life without breaking the bank.
These next eight items have constantly been the most popular purchases from our guide year after year. We understand why because they’re the kind of gifts to show you actually understand her outdoor lifestyle. Perfect for stocking stuffers or rounding out a larger gift, these are the little things she’ll appreciate long after opening it.
33. Women Who Hike
Sometimes the best piece of gear isn’t something you carry on the trail, it’s something that inspires you to get out there in the first place. Women Who Hike features first-hand stories from 20 diverse female adventurers overcoming problems when conquering their favorite trails. After reading it, Kristen thinks it’s a book that will make you want to book your next trip immediately.
Each unique story highlights a different challenge, and it’s filled with inspiring examples of how each woman pushed through to discover her resilience and confidence outdoors. It’s the perfect nightstand or cozy cabin weekend novel when you’re dreaming of a next adventure. If she’s a new mom, the companion book Moms Who Hike highlights the unique challenge of tackling the trails with kids (it’s on Kristen’s wishlist).
Price: $24.95
>> BUY: Amazon
34. Radiate Portable Campfire
Nothing beats a real campfire, but sometimes it’s nice to have the ambience without the entire set up. We think Radiate is the perfect solution. This portable campfire delivers an instant flame without having to worry about firewood or propane because you just light the edge and it’s ready to shine.
Made from recycled soy wax and paper briquettes, it burns for a continuous two hours with no toxic fumes or heavy smoke, making it safe for apartments, patios or camping sites. We’ve used ours from our Seattle balcony to small beach bonfires in North Carolina. It’s reusable, so you can extinguish it then relight it later. This is the perfect gift for anyone who wants the campfire experience without all the work.
Price: $14.90-$43.99
>> BUY: Amazon
35. Rite In The Rain
The biggest risk to trail notes, camping lists or brilliant mid-hike ideas isn’t forgetting them, it’s the elements destroying them. Rite in the Rain notebooks solve this problem with all-weather paper that works to repel water, sweat, and mud so your notes stay intact no matter the conditions.
We prefer the hardcover notebook for documenting trail details we want to remember and journaling positive thoughts in the morning. This unique paper works with regular pencils or all-weather pens even when it’s soaking wet. Founded in 1916, Rite in the Rain has been the gold standard for field notebooks for over a century and it won’t let her down when conditions get rough.
Price: $14.85-$39.95
36. Travel Guidebooks + Itineraries
The single hardest part of planning a trip isn’t the packing, it’s the endless research. But we’ve done the hard work for your with our guidebooks and itineraries filled with years of on-the-ground experience. We’ve compiled everything we know into detailed, actionable resources to actually help you travel better.
Our guidebooks give you the complete logistical roadmap with tested routes, vetted hotel recommendations, restaurants where you’ll find the locals, and hidden gems we’ve discovered through trial and error. Our day-by-day itineraries lay out everything with step by step directions including where to go, what to see, where to eat, and where to sleep based on our trips. We only write about destinations we’ve personally explored, and we include our mistakes so you don’t repeat them.
Price: $9.99
37. Portawipes
When every ounce counts on a backpacking trip, Portawipes are the minimalist hygiene solution that actually makes sense. These compressed tablets are smaller than a quarter, but expand into full-sized durable towels when you add just a few drops of water. The first time we saw it, we couldn’t believe our eyes!
We pack these towelettes for multi-day trips and use them for everything from washing our hands, mopping up spills, cleaning small cuts, and freshening up when a shower isn’t happening anytime soon. They’re made of unscented natural fibers that are gentle on skin. Each tablet weighs practically nothing and they’re biodegradable so it’s perfect for trying to minimize weight without sacrificing hygiene.
Price: $11.47-$38.97
38. Burt’s Bees Gift Set
Exposed lips take a beating outdoors when the wind, sun, cold and altitude can leave them cracked and painful. Kristen never hits the trail without Burt’s Bees lip balm because the natural beeswax formula creates a protective barrier that actually lasts.
Each gift set includes various flavors, which is perfect for stashing them in multiple locations. At this price point, it’s one of those small essentials that make a perfect stocking stuffer. Shop combination sets with hand lotion and lip balm on Amazon, or go for the holiday-themed 12 Days of Burts if you want more variety.
Price: $9.99-$29.99
39. Gaiatop Mini Fan
Heat and humidity can ruin an otherwise perfect outdoor day, but sometimes a little airflow is all you need. This compact rechargeable fan has become an essential for us during the brutal North Carolina summers. We’ve used it everywhere from humid campfire evenings to scorching beach days. We loved this fan so much, we’ve even bought the Gaiatop stroller fan for our daughter.
Three speed settings (low, medium and high) lets you adjust airflow based on conditions, and it’s surprisingly powerful for its size. It can run for 4-8 hours depending on speed and recharges via USB-C in about 3 hours. At just a few ounces, it’s light enough to toss into a day pack without thinking twice. Kristen’s favorite feature is the little stand it comes with so she can prop it up exactly where she needs.
Price: $9.99
>> BUY: Amazon
40. Nature Meditation Deck
Outdoor experiences aren’t just about physical endurance, they’re also about being present and finding peace in the wilderness. This Nature Meditations deck is one of those thoughtful unexpected gifts that always surprise people with how much they use it.
Each card highlights a short meditation or visualization practice designed specially for outdoor settings. This includes activities such as mindful breathing while watching a sunrise, grounding experiences at trailheads, and practicing gratitude at a summit. We like these cards because they’re great for anyone looking to bring balance, focus, and positive energy back into life.
Price: $19.95
Next Steps
We hope our outdoorsy woman gift guide helps you find the perfect gift for any occasion!
If you’re still on the fence about what to get, here are the top 3 items we love and recommend:
- Darn Tough Socks – The only socks she’ll ever need
- Kula Cloth – Help her stay dry anywhere she goes
- Picnic Blanket – One gift she probably doesn’t own
Need more gift ideas?
- Here’s our outdoorsy men gift guide.
- Take a look at our thoughtful hiking gifts.
- Shop our practical traveler gift ideas.
- Explore our gifts for national park lovers.
- See our best photography gifts.
- Don’t miss our useful camping gifts.
Happy shopping,
Mark and Kristen
Was this guide helpful? Pin it for future inspiration!
All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
Mark and Kristen spent 6 years traveling the world, visiting over 40 countries across 4 continents and more than 30 US states. They created Where Are Those Morgans in 2018 to help others plan the best possible vacations by writing authentic travel and hiking guides based on their real experiences.
Since the arrival of baby Maya in late 2024, Mark and Kristen’s extensive travels have slowed down but they still take plenty of trips. Where Are Those Morgans now helps millions of travelers each year to visit new places and hike new trails through information-packed blog posts and expert travel guidebooks. Read more about Mark and Kristen.