We have 2 family members (young adults) who love to camp. We’re especially hoping to find something they don’t already have, as they’ve been camping for several years, so have most of the basic essentials. For you campers, what are some things you would not live without?
Trying a new post on this new format. Hope all goes well.
Garmin handheld GPS - if they are out of range and will allow a way to communicate and you are looking for $ gift. For stocking stuffers - we have put in the small (size of a mini purse kleenix pack) that has a shiny blanket for emergencies, whistle, deck of cards and many custom card decks are available on etsy - so maybe they have a favorite hiking area, depending where they camp.
Cards can be fun for camping. Or travel games. If they are fans of the Settlers of Catan game, this is a sale game I just ordered for a camping friend - Catan Dice Game Clamshell Edition : Target
Collapsible buckets can be handy. We used to always have a filled one next to our camp fires.
If they’ve been camping several years they may be pretty well set- or they may know what they’re lacking. My daughter and her boyfriend wanted better sleeping bags (for lower temps), a good hammock, quality hatchet, and headlamps.
Do they hike and camp or drive out somewhere and camp? Even if they have a lot of camping gadgets and items already, there is probably a “wish list”. Ask or give them REI or other outdoor store gift cards. A lot of the camping items you need to try on or see in action to pick the right one. Also, think about National or State park’s annual passes as a gift, they will appreciate it!
If they cook a lot, maybe some “kitchen” equipment. We have finally collected a great supply of cooking gear. Things like a good nonstick pan (cast iron also great but heavier), saucepan, silverware, plastic stemless wine glasses, insulated coffee cups, a good small knife with a sleeve, a small container with can opener, wine opener, whisk, spatula, serving spoon, measuring spoons, etc., cutting board, french press - you get the idea.
Really nice camping chairs. Check REI for ideas. Luci lights are being made in a variety of styles these days, including strings. For those who don’t know, they are solar blow up lights for camping as well home. One of my favorite presents as a teen backpacker was a higher end Swiss Army knife. There are high end coolers these days. The question could be more specifically answered if we knew whether car camping or backpacking.
I’ll 2nd the solar lights. High quality headlamp. Teva makes a camping type moccasin that would keep feet warm around a fire. Patagonia jacket, warm hat. Small Weber style propane gas bbq if they do car camping.
They usually car camp, then “day- hike” from there. Appreciating all responses so far!
Lightweight nylon hammocks, with webbing slings and carabiners to attach around trees. Very compact, incredibly easy to set up and take down, and a nice option for hanging out at the campsite/in the woods.
Quick drying towels are also nice to have.
For my camping and hiking family in the past few years I gave yearly gift certificates from REI $200 each. That will definitely buy a new sleeping bag, an expensive sleeping mat, a coat , etc. I never would have guessed what they bought each year. You could get a whistle or a compass and attach a note about the gift certificate. REI just has really nice stuff.
From experience, gift certificates online are much better than in paper. Once one lost his paper certificate and I luckily had a receipt. After a phone call to REI I was able to get a reissued gift certificate and to delete the paper one.
For car camping, there are some low profile cots available as an alternative to a pad. REI has a number of brands. The lightweight ones are pricey. Also pricey, a Yeti cooler. Lanterns are a lower price option. A stash of fat wood is nice for starting fires.
Do they have a Jackery portable power station? The small one is $200 and will power all their needs if needed. You can also add on a portable suitcase type solar panel to keep it charged. Do they have a heat source? A Little Buddy portable heater would be nice. Are they camping in the vehicle or outside? If in the vehicle, include a carbon monoxide monitor.
Overhead miners headlamps. Awesome to have and keep your hands free. Especially when nature calls at night lol.
Bear spray.
Waterproof matches.