30 Camping Gift Ideas
Camping has recently become more of a lifestyle as digital nomads, van lifers, and retirees take to the road for some solitude and uninterrupted time with Mother Nature. Whether you’re an expert backpacker, full time RVer, or a weekend warrior car camper, we’ve curated a list of awesome gifts that every camper will put to good use.
Campers are usually limited on the amount of things they can bring along. So making each item count is extremely important, but that’s not to say they don’t enjoy the latest gear on the market. Check out these 30 gifts below that they’ll be delighted to make space for.
By Reina Esser • Published Jan 2 2023
1. Jetboil Camping Stove
This one-of-a-kind stove makes camp coffee a breeze!
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Conserve fuel while you make some fuel for you and your camping company. This simple to use cooking system boil's water in no time while using half the fuel of traditional systems. Even better, the bottom of the Jetboil canister doubles as a measuring cup and bowl, making it a very sensible item to bring along on backpacking trips.
2. Kelty Loveseat Camp Chair
Cuddle for warmth on this adorable camp couch.
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This Kelty "low loveseat" is a great Valentine's gift or surprise present for your spouse or favorite camping buddy! This camp chair sits low to the ground so you don't get a face full of bonfire smoke and leans back at that perfect relaxing angle.
3. Eno Doublenest Hammock
A relaxing hammock so you (and a friend!) can feel the breeze and sunshine.
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While this Eno hammock seats two, it's not necessary to invite a friend to use this awesome hammock. Tie it up at your campsite or bring it on a long hike for the ultimate rest stop. If you're outdoorsy enough, you could even sleep in it!
4. REI Trailbreak 20 Sleeping Bag
Stay extra toasty on those chilly nights.
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Sleeping bags are a personal gift for most campers. Before purchasing any ole bag, check with them to see if they need one for warmer or cold weather. This REI Trailbreak bag is rated for temperatures 20 degrees or warmer and it's water repellent finish will be sure to keep you dry. Sleeping bags are designed differently for men and women. Not only are some larger or smaller, but they have insulation and accommodations specific to the anatomy. REI has a great selection of sleeping bags for every camper!
5. YETI ROADIE 24 HARD COOLER
Perfectly stores a bottle of wine, need we say more?
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This lightweight cooler fits perfectly behind the seat of the car making it ideal for weekend warriors and car campers. You won't need to restock on ice constantly or worry about soggy food.
6. Collapsible Solar Lantern
Stop carrying around batteries, let the sun provide for you!
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This collapsible solar-powered camping lantern is a game-changer on the campsite. You can charge it by USB on cloudy days, but the sun is here to do the work for you. It is easy to store and can be programmed to different colors for campsite ambiance. This amazon 2 pack is wonderful because you need one to take on your walk to the bathroom and one to keep at the campsite.
7. Rumpl National Parks Puffy Blanket
Stay warm and stylish with this popular camp blanket.
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This 2 lbs. insulated blanket is the perfect blend between lightweight and warm for crisp fall camping trips. Rumpl thought of everything with this one. Choose from designs of different National Parks and enjoy cool features like a Cape Clip to enter hands-free blanket mode. It packs up small enough to always come along for the adventure!
8. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
Now we're cooking with...cast iron!
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Cook over the campfire like a pro! Camp chefs everywhere need this versatile but classic piece of cookware in their camp kitchen for delicious pancakes, eggs, fajitas, and beyond! Pre-seasoned and ready to use out of the box, be sure you clean it properly and you'll enjoy it for years to come.
9. REI Gift Card
Campers know best. Leave the decision up to them.
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As an avid camper myself, there's nothing worse than getting something you can't use or already have. The best gift ever is getting to walk around REI or shop online. The amount can be put towards a big purchase to lessen the blow or used on a bunch of little things!
10. Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
A camping light made simple.
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This award-winning headlamp has the option to be battery powered for days without a charge or comes with a USB rechargeable battery that lasts 3 hours. A handy red light spares your eyeballs during dark nights and the headband is washable because you'll need to eventually.
11. Roasting Sticks
Perfect for campfire snacks galore!
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Hot dogs, marshmallows, s'mores, oh my! These 32 inch extendable roasting sticks are easy to clean and pack into any car camping setup effortlessly.
12. Solo Stove Bonfire Pit
Take the fire with you.
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A perfect luxury gift for campers who won't shell out on themselves. This portable fire bit can be used at home and packed up for a weekend camping trip, too! The Solo Stove's stainless steel, the portable design also creates less smoke.
13. Set of 6 Carabiners
You always need one but can never find one.
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Keeping up with keys, water bottles, and even the dog while on a hike is a serious skill most campers underestimate. You'll thank yourself for clipping the keys to your belt or backpack and the dog leash around your waist. These carabiners also pair perfectly with the Eno Hammock for hanging. Not all carabiners are rated to hold weight. Be sure to check the packaging before using them to climb or hang on.
14. Therm-a-Rest Sleeping Pad
Ultralight and comfortable for backcountry nights.
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If you have a friend who backpacks, this sleeping pad is a great gift that packs down to the size of a water bottle. The Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad features 2.5in of thickness for stability and is well suited for cold weather camping.
15. LifeStraw Water Bottle & Filter
2 stag filtration system for hikers and backpackers.
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This LifeStraw water bottle has a built in water filter to protect from bacteria, parasites, chemicals, and microplastics. Not only is a reusable water bottle more sustainable, but this one allows campers to drink straight from the source.
16. Outdoor Portable Power Bank
9 days of use, no electricity required!
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I recently purchased this product for my camping trips and am very impressed with the number of gadgets it allows us to keep charged. Simply place this powerful charger out in the sun and its rechargeable solar panels will do the rest. You can also recharge the power bank via a USB cable, making it car compatible.
17. Monocular Telescope
Compact for all your adventures.
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The Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube Monocular Telescope is a wonderful alternative to traditional bulky binoculars. Never miss a thing with this handy telescope fitting conveniently around your neck, in your pocket, or clipped to your pack. Add the smartphone adapter to capture pictures of your discoveries or the multiplier lens to get even more up-close and personal.
18. Ultralight Hiking Poles
Suitable for Hikers of all skill levels.
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While you might like the $20 Amazon option, it's worth it to spend a little more on trekking poles. After all, they will reduce stress on legs and joints, and having one break mid-hike would be a tragedy. These tungsten carbide tipped poles offer a stable grip with each step.
19. Coleman Camp Stove
Level up your camp kitchen.
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When you're away for the weekend enjoying the outdoors, camp cooking is the best activity. Having a great stove like this Coleman 3-in-1 HyperFlame makes it even more enjoyable. The stove features wind-blocking burners and interchangeable tops for camp chefs who multitask.
20. Collapsible Camping Bowl
Comes with a stainless steel fork, too!
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Clean-ups are a breeze with this silicone collapsible camping bowl. Enjoy campsite oatmeal, noodles, salads, and more! This nifty set is great for the solo camper and includes a stainless steel fork and lid.
21. Edible Wild Plants: A North American Field Guide
Forage for dinner with this handy field guide.
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Foraging is the act of searching widely for food. It is a common act among campers and hikers who enjoy identifying the local flora and fauna of the area. If your camper is not into this kind of thing, consider a gifting them a field guide related to their interests. Birds, rocks, mushrooms, reptiles, and more!
22. Coffee Grinder
Because being off grid doesn't mean drinking bad coffee.
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This lightweight coffee grinder makes it possible for you to enjoy your artisan coffee anywhere! It's a luxury we all need on a cold morning and before busy days enjoying nature. No electricity necessary, just turn the handle manually to grind quality coffee for you and your camp buddies.
23. Backcountry Baselayer
A must-have for all campers.
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A thermal base layer can make all the difference when you are out in the wilderness. Whether you're car camping or hiking the Appalachian Trail, staying warm is essential to have a good time. This is a great gift idea for someone who might not be willing to invest in quality outdoor clothing. Layer your clothing over it as usual and forget you even have it on! Add the long-sleeve top to complete the gift.
24. Coleman Outdoor Folding Table
For gathering friends or working from "home."
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A compact and lightweight camp table can make all the difference in your outdoor setup. Whether you have an RV, teardrop camper, or tent, the space around your campsite is an extension of your home for the weekend. This is a great table that can easily be used for card games, camp dinners, or as a workspace for any last minute emails you need to catch up on before relaxation officially begins.
25. Sea to Summit Dry Sacks
Keeps valuables dry why you trek on.
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A dry bag allows a camper to take items they might normally leave behind on their adventures. Cameras, phones, a dry pair of socks, etc. This versatile bag is perfect for campers who enjoy kayaking, fishing or heading to the springs for a dip. Personally, I pack mine full of snacks, and its works wonderfully for long kayak trips! Choose a size between 8L and 20L to ensure a towel, phone, snacks, and water bottle fit comfortably.
26. Ruffwear Singletrak Dog Pack
Bring Lassie along but make her carry her things.
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If your camper has a dog, chances are they are all too familiar with giving up valuable backpack space for a collapsible bowl, water, food, and poop bags so that Lassie can come along on the hike. While this is completely honorable and she deserves to join the adventure, free up storage for your essentials by asking her *politely* to carry her things. Once she sees the car keys or leash she'll forget she's even got it on.
27. Teva ReEmber Shoes
Shoes and slippers all in one!
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Great for long drives, grocery store runs, and the campsite. These comfortable and stylish shoes slip on easily with foldable backs. Sometimes your slippers need a bit more sole to protect you against the elements. These shoes can also pass as a part of any outfit as a huge plus.
28. Mushroom Camp Coffee Mug
Is any gift guide complete without a coffee mug?
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A camp mug is a status symbol that you do this often. Add a cool design like this mushroom mug to be identified as an early morning camping expert. Perfect for evening cups of tea or hot cocoa around the camp fire.
29. Camp Rug
Everyone at the campground has one.
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Upon pulling up to your campsite, it's apparent to see that the professionals have luxury setups equipped with a camp rug. You may think it's frivolous, but turning the outdoors into your living room for the duration of your trip makes for a comfortable and fun time. Avoid tracking dirt into your tent or camper and look like a pro. This camp rug is reversible and folds up to be the size of a picnic blanket.
30. Camping Mosquito Net Canopy
Mosquitos can get lost while you enjoy the fresh air.
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Campers are all too familiar with the smell of insect repellant. A screened canopy means you can apply a little less DEET and enjoy a bug free evening around the campsite.