The 30 Most Loved Awesome Stocking Suffers for Hikers (2023)

As the holiday season approaches, the challenge of choosing the perfect gifts for the adventure lovers in your life begins. If you have a hiker among your loved ones, you’ll want to find presents that are practical, lightweight, and enhance their outdoor experiences. Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of ten great stocking stuffers that every hiker will appreciate and, most importantly, use.

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1. Portable Water Filter: For the hiker who loves to venture deep into the wilderness, a portable water filter is a must. These handy devices remove bacteria and parasites from water sources, ensuring safe drinking water wherever the trail may lead. The most-loved water filters are the Sawyer Squeeze and the Katadyn BeFree filter. Both of these are easy to find on amazon or backpacking sites.
2. Headlamp: A lightweight headlamp is a gift that keeps on giving, providing hands-free illumination for campsite navigation, after-dark hikes, or any unexpected emergencies. You can find these at any outdoors store or online. The Nitecore is nice because it is particularly light.
3. Trail Snacks: High-energy, nutritious snacks are always a welcome treat. Think energy bars, trail mix, dried fruits, or even a gourmet jerky – just the ticket for a quick refuel while on the move. Snickers bars are a particular favorite of hikers for a reward when they reach a summit.
4. Hiking Socks: Quality socks are crucial for a comfortable hike. Look for options that offer good cushioning, moisture-wicking capabilities, and perhaps some with merino wool for warmth and breathability. Darn tough socks are the most popular because they have a lifetime warranty. However, a lot of hikers, including me, are fans of ininji toe socks as they can help minimize toe blisters.
5. Compact Survival Whistle: It’s small, often overlooked, but potentially lifesaving. A loud survival whistle is essential for emergencies, especially if a hiker gets lost or injured. Remind your hiking loved one to attach it to their backpack should strap so they can reach it quickly in an emergency.
6. Portable Charger: For the tech-savvy hiker, a backup battery charger provides peace of mind, ensuring their devices stay charged without needing an outlet in sight. They come in a variety of sizes–larger ones will weigh more. I used this Anker charger on my recent thru hike of the Oregon Coast Trail and I found it lasted me many days before needing a recharge, even with watching videos at night on my phone.
7. Inspirational Hiking Book or Guide: Sometimes, the thrill of hiking comes from planning the next adventure. A book featuring the best hiking trails or personal memoirs from seasoned hikers can inspire their next journey. Choose a book of hikes for your hikers state or country or for somewhere you know they’ve always dreamed of going.
8. Packable Rain Poncho: Weather on the trail can be unpredictable. A lightweight, packable rain poncho ensures that the hiker in your life won’t get caught in the rain unprepared. There are many options out there, but I like this zip-front poncho because it allows me to uncover my body if the rain temporarily stops and I got hot while still leaving it in place over my pack.
9. Reusable Hand Warmers: For chilly mornings or cold-weather hikes, reusable hand warmers can provide a burst of warmth. They’re often activated by squeezing or bending and can be reset by boiling. These are available in any outdoors store whether a physical store or online.
10. Multi-Use Bandana or Buff: These versatile accessories can be used as a headband, neck gaiter, dust mask, or even a pot holder. They’re great for managing sweat, keeping warm, or staying clean. I personally love my merino wool buff, but you can find buffs and bandanas with a variety of patterns.
11. Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or Satellite Communicator: For those who venture into remote areas, a PLB or satellite communicator can be a life-saving device, providing peace of mind for both the hiker and their loved ones. The Garmin Mini 2 is coveted by most backpackers, but it is quite expensive. The Spot Gen 4 is more affordable. Before you invest, though, be aware that newer iphones are supposed to have emergency satellite features.
12. Trekking Poles: Compact and lightweight trekking poles can provide stability and support, especially on challenging terrains or during long treks. Carbon trekking poles are the lightest but aluminum are a little sturdier. Most hikers prefer poles with clip-adjusters rather than twist-adjusters, and they prefer cork handles for sweat absorption. They come in a range of prices. This is a nice, affordable starter pair.
13. Navigational Tools: A lightweight compass or a GPS device designed for hiking purposes can be indispensable for wilderness navigation. Most people do have GPS on their phones, but there are places in the wilderness where GPS doesn’t work, and it doesn’t help if a batter runs out. Any compass will do, but make sure your hiking loved one watches a Youtube video to learn how to use it.
14. Biodegradable Trail Soap: Perfect for hikers conscious about their ecological footprint, these soaps are safe for natural water sources. Dr. Bronner’s soap is popular with backpackers. I use it at home as well. It is concentrated and lasts a long time.
15. Insect Repellent: A natural, DEET-free repellent can protect against insect bites without the harsh chemicals. If you choose to get a product with a high concentration of DEET, make sure your hiker knows that it can melt gear made from man-made materials.
16. Lens Kit for Smartphones: For photography enthusiasts, these kits include macro, wide-angle, and fisheye lenses to enhance their mobile photography.
17. Eco-Friendly Utensils: Lightweight, durable, and reusable utensils made of bamboo or titanium that they can take on their hikes. Backpackers like titanium sporks because they have the features of both a fork and a spoon in one device. Long handled options are great for those who want to eat out of a plastic bag or food container.
18. Sit Pad: Compact and lightweight, these are useful for resting during hikes.
19. Backpacking Stove: A backpacking stove is a compact and lightweight cooking device designed for use in the backcountry. It’s engineered for simplicity and efficiency, using fuel sources like propane, isobutane, or wood, depending on the model. This stove allows hikers to boil water and cook meals, providing a much-needed respite and energy source during rigorous adventures. Its compact size and light weight make it an indispensable item for backpackers who need to keep their gear to a minimum. The BRS stove is affordable and very light.
20. Tent Stakes: Tent stakes, also known as pegs, are spikes (usually made of metal, plastic, or another durable material) driven into the ground to hold a tent in place. They are crucial in windy conditions, ensuring the tent stays secure regardless of the weather. These stakes come in various designs, including standard, V-shaped, or screw-in, each offering different levels of grip and soil compatibility. Lightweight yet sturdy, they are an essential part of any hiker’s shelter system. One favorite among backpacks is the MSR Mini Groundhog as it is a nice balance of sturdiness and weight.
21. Pack Liner: A pack liner is a waterproof insert used to protect the contents of a backpack from moisture, typically made of durable, water-resistant materials like nylon or polyethylene. Used as an internal shield against rain, river crossings, or damp conditions, the liner keeps clothing, electronics, and other essentials dry. Unlike a rain cover, it protects the contents even if water seeps through the backpack material, making it an essential item for hikers traversing wet or unpredictable environments. Honestly, a trash compacter bag works great as it is thick and sturdy.
22. Patches for Their Favorite Trails: Trail patches are embroidered or woven badges that depict landmarks, logos, or names of popular hiking trails. Collectible and often colorful, they serve as mementos of a hiker’s achievements and memories formed on different trails. Hikers often attach them to their backpacks, jackets, or hats, showcasing their adventures and serving as conversation starters with fellow trail enthusiasts. These patches are not just souvenirs but badges of honor, proudly worn. Search on amazon or etsy for your hiker’s favorite trails.
23. Leukotape: Leukotape is a strong, adhesive tape often used by hikers and athletes to prevent blisters, stabilize joints, and manage minor injuries on the go. Its high tensile strength and rigid construction provide support and protection in high-friction areas, especially on feet prone to blisters. Unlike regular medical tape, Leukotape is designed to withstand moisture, sweat, and long periods of wear, making it a reliable and versatile part of any hiker’s first-aid kit. I absolutely do not hike without it.
24. Collapsible Cup or Bowl: Perfect for the minimalist hiker, these can be used for both eating and drinking while taking up minimal space. These cups are great for drinking coffee out of while eating your meal out of your pot.
25. Adventure Journal: A journal that prompts them to explore and record their experiences can be a unique gift that they’ll cherish. Any small notebook or journal will work.
26. Stargazing Guide: For the night-time adventurer, a guide to the stars can add something special to their overnight hiking trips.
27. Thermal Imaging Camera: For the tech geek, a thermal imaging camera that attaches to their phone can be both fun and practical. Be warned: they aren’t cheap.
28. Portable Spice Kit: Just because they’re on the trail doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy a gourmet meal! A spice kit can be a fun way for hikers to spice up their trail meals. The kit can include small ketchup packets saved from fast food restaurants as well as snack sized baggies filled with spices from your kitchen. Label them neatly and you have a great homemade gift.
29. Lip Balm with SPF: Protecting lips from the elements is often overlooked. A quality lip balm with sun protection is a must-have in any pack. You can find these at any grocery check out counter if you are in the U.S.
30. Gift Cards to Outdoor Stores: Let your loved one choose their own gear or replace well-worn items. A gift card to their favorite outdoor store can be a hit. REI or Cabellas are great options in the U.S., or see if their favorite online store offers gift cards.

Remember, the best gifts are those that show thought, care, and understanding of the recipient’s passions. Any of these stocking stuffers will not only be appreciated by hikers but also likely become essential items on their future trails. So this holiday season, equip the hikers in your life with gifts that fuel their passion and enhance their hiking experience! Happy gifting!