November 06, 2024

Top 10 Gifts For Backpackers In 2024 - 2024 Gift Guide

Shopping for ultralight backpackers usually means you've got to be a bit of a gear junkie.

With such a variety in outdoor gear options available, you typically need to know what performance gear & technologies look like.

However, we've made that shopping experience MUCH easier this year by highlighting some gear items for you that we know any ultralight backpacker will love!

Each of these gift suggestions will help any backpacker enjoy their adventures more comfortably & confidently.

The best part is, you can avoid busy shopping malls & long lines by ordering any of the following items online!

Best "Wearable" Gifts

1. Skyline Trail Joggers

Many hikers avoid wearing shorts because of exposure to brush, bugs, sun, etc. But full length pants can be hot and restrictive. The Skyline Trail Joggers give you all the benefits of shorts like venting and mobility while still keeping your legs fully covered.

2. Vario Ultralight Jacket

At just 9 oz, this is one of the most versatile AND lightweight 3 season jackets available. 3DeFX insulation keeps you warmer when stationary, but allows for more venting while in motion. The Vario will keep you comfortable in a MUCH wider range of temperatures when compared to other 3 season jackets.

3. Nebo Windbreaker Jacket

This is perhaps one of THE MOST useful items a backpacker can take on the trail, but is also an item that many backpackers buy for themselves least often. At just 4 oz, the Nebo has one of the highest weight to benefit ratios out of any piece of gear.

Typically when someone is feeling cold, the answer isn't more insulation. Wind chill is the #1 culprit of feeling cold in the backcountry. The Nebo will block that wind while still allowing you to breathe - making it a piece that you can wear even while being active!

Best "Backpacking Essentials" Gifts

4. StormLoft™ Down Topquilt

Not all top quilts & sleeping bags are the same, and the StormLoft™ makes that obvious. Our unique cut wraps around your body naturally without gaps or "cold spots." PLUS this quilt is literally lined with pure gold! ExpeDRY gold treated down is the new gold standard when it comes to down insulation. It dries incredibly quickly, and stays lofty & warm even on multi-day expeditions in damp conditions.

5. CS40 Ultra Backpack

At 27 oz, the CS40 is one of the lightest & most comfortable full-framed backpacks out there. It's grabbed attention from major publications like Outside, Backpacker, & GearJunkie. Functional load lifters and the super durable UltraWeave 200 fabric will ensure you can enjoy the pack without worry for thousands of miles on trail!

6. Fortius Trekking Pole Tent

This ultralight tent has also grabbed attention in major publications. One of the most unique aspects of the Fortius is that it is so "storm worthy." Many trekking pole tents buckle or collapse in wind or high elevation rain/snow storms. But the Fortius comes equipped with extra tie-outs and reinforcements with a design that was built to withstand the weather.

Best Gifts Under $50

7. Altitude Sun Hoodie

This very well may be the LIGHTEST synthetic sun hoodie available at just 4 oz! The Altitude is incredibly breathable & does a phenomenal job at wicking moisture & drying quickly. Additionally, the Altitude uses FUZE™ Antimicrobial Treatment to increase bacteria & odor resistance - much like merino wool! This treatment is permanent and will not wash out over time.

8. LoftTek™ Hybrid Booties

One of the first areas of our bodies to feel cold is our feet. These ultralight booties are super warm & very compressible. The LoftTek™ Hybrid insulation won't "wet out" or collapse with moisture, so you can to totally confident in warm feet at night - even if you get wet feet during the day!

9. Closed Cell Foam Pad

Whether you're looking to keep your inflatable sleeping pad from sliding around your tent or to protect it from punctures, the 1/8 inch Closed Cell Foam Pad weighs just 2 oz and will do the job! You can also use this foam pad to kneel or sit on while taking breaks or setting up camp.

10. Ultralight Non-Slip Stretch Pillow

The best way to make sure you keep enjoying your outdoor adventures for years to come is to ensure a good night's sleep on the trail. These little pillows fit in the palm of your hand when compressed, & only way 2.6 oz. They have silicone grips that prevent it from sliding around your tent, and a soft top fabric that feels like your sheets at home!

BONUS LIST: Best Backpacking Gifts For Her

The following items are great gift ideas for female backpackers. They are performance driven pieces of gear that will keep her warm, comfortable, & happy. With a women-specific fit, these items not only perform but they look good, too.

11. Women's Vario Ultralight Jacket

We've already covered the Vario in this Gift Guide, but the women's specific cut is HIGHLY popular. The attractive cut, full zipper, 9 oz weight, and pockets make it a jacket that's useful both on & off the trail!

12. Women's Altitude Sun Hoodie

It's comfortable, lightweight, breathable, quick-drying, & odor resistant (permanently using FUZE™ silver treatment). Pair that with an attractive women's specific fit & you get a base layer she'll love!

13. Women's NovaPro Jacket

This is our WARMEST puffy jacket yet! With Nova Zero Stitch™ fabric and DownLT™ insulation, it's a warmer & more reliable puffy jacket that doesn't "wet out" so easily. With zippered underarm vents, this jacket will keep her comfortable in a variety of settings.

14. Women's NovaUL Jacket

The NovaUL uses the same technologies and fabrics as the NovaPro, but is lighter for those that don't want to carry as much weight and that don't want to overheat. As a 3 season jacket, she'll love wearing this throughout the year.