Whether it's Christmas, a birthday, Valentine's Day or simply a chance to show you care, it can sometimes be hard to find gift ideas for hiking enthusiasts. With CIMALP, that's no longer a problem! Discover 8 gift ideas for hiking lovers.
Classic gifts for hikers
Let's start with the most classic option: giving a gift to a hiker can be an opportunity to complete their kit. To make sure you hit the mark, discreetly ask the person themselves or someone close to them what they actually need.
A knife
A knife is the essential tool for any hiker, and you're sure to delight them by giving one. Choose something solid — and why not one with a screwdriver and other handy features. Do be mindful of any superstitions, though: it's said that giving a knife cuts the friendship or love between two people, unless the recipient gives a small coin in return to the giver.
A backpack
A hike without a decent backpack isn't quite a hike! This is a gift that will please every hiker, from beginners to seasoned veterans. If you're choosing the bag on your own, go for 30 or 35L — the sweet spot for hiking. Make sure it has plenty of pockets and suits both the build and the activity of the person you're giving it to. As for style — classic or something a bit different: that's your call!
Hiking clothing
A hiking garment or accessory — now that's a practical gift! Trousers, shorts, a sweatshirt, a windproof jacket, a hat, a water bottle or even socks — the right hiking gear may be less original, but it should never be overlooked. If you're unsure about the person's preferences or size, gift cards are an excellent alternative that takes the guesswork out of it!
Tech gifts for hikers
Staying on top of technology in the middle of nature is perfectly possible! Many hikers are hooked on tech gadgets that make their lives easier. A slightly pricier gift idea, but one that will really make an impression.
A GPS device
Tech-savvy hikers will be thrilled to receive a GPS device as a gift. With one, they can pinpoint their exact location, record a route, follow a track…
If you decide to go down this route, do your research on all the features. Look for good battery life and solid mapping to keep up throughout an entire hike, a fairly large screen for easy reading, and the lightest option possible so it doesn't become a burden!
A high-tech watch
Altimeter, barometer, compass, temperature… all the tools useful for hiking packed into a single watch — it's possible! With a slightly higher budget, you can even find smartwatches connected to your smartphone to track your performance.
Original gifts for hikers
If you want to stand out and do something a bit different, go for the more original gift options!
A scratch-the-world map
Has the person you're buying for hiked in many different countries? Give them a scratch map of the world! Every time they complete a trip, they can scratch off the area they've explored. Decorative and ever-evolving, this gift will bring back all their favourite memories and will surely inspire them to discover new destinations!
A gift box
We're more familiar with gift boxes for unusual overnight stays in a treehouse or a wellness weekend… but hiking gift boxes exist too! They typically offer a guided hike for 2 adults — whether on foot, on snowshoes in the mountains, by bike or otherwise. And if you can't find exactly what you're looking for among the existing boxes, nothing stops you from creating your own! A gift that could be perfect for beginners who'd love to go hiking with a guide.
A beautiful book
A hike is something you plan, organise — but also dream about. And beautiful landscape books or guidebooks can be the spark that ignites that dream. Has your friend always wanted to hike in Lapland? Give them a book of the most stunning Lapland scenery! You might just be the one who plants the idea in their head.
