For Christmas, a birthday, Valentine's Day, or simply to put a smile on someone's face, you might sometimes find yourself stuck for gift ideas for hiking enthusiasts. With CIMALP, that's a thing of the past! Here are 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 a great opportunity to complete their kit. However, to make sure you hit the mark, discreetly check with the person themselves or those close to them to find out what they actually need.
A knife
A knife is an essential tool for any hiker, and you'll almost certainly make them happy by gifting one. Choose something sturdy — and why not one that comes with a screwdriver and other handy gadgets. Do bear in mind, however, that the superstitious believe giving a knife cuts the friendship or love between two people, unless the recipient gives the giver a small coin in return.
A backpack
A hike without a good backpack just isn't quite a hike! This is a gift that will delight every hiker — from beginners to seasoned veterans. If you're choosing the bag on your own, go for a 30 or 35L — ideal for hiking. Make sure it has plenty of pockets and suits the build and activities of the person you're giving it to. As for the look — classic or something bolder: that's entirely up to you!
Hiking clothing
A hiking clothing item or accessory — now that's a practical gift! Trousers, shorts, sweatshirts, windbreakers, hats, water bottles or even socks — the right hiking gear may be less original, but it's never a bad idea. If you're not sure about the person's tastes or size, consider gift cards, which are an excellent alternative and take all the guesswork out of it!
Tech gifts for hikers
Staying on the cutting edge of technology out in nature is perfectly possible! Many hikers are hooked on tech gadgets that make their lives easier. A slightly pricier gift idea than the others — but one that will really make an impression.
A GPS
Tech-savvy hikers will be thrilled to receive a GPS as a gift. With one, they can pinpoint their exact location, record a route, follow a track…
If you decide to go for this type of gift, make sure you look into all the features. Choose one with good battery life and solid mapping to last throughout a full hiking trip, a reasonably large screen for easy reading, and as light as possible so it doesn't become a burden!
A high-tech watch
Altimeter, barometer, compass, temperature… all the elements useful for hiking packed into a single watch — it's possible! With a slightly bigger budget, you can even find smartwatches that connect to your smartphone to track your performance.
Unique gifts for hikers
If you want to stand out and make a real impression, go for something a little more original!
A scratch-off world map
Has the person you're buying for hiked across many countries? Give them a scratch-off world map! 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 best memories and will surely inspire them to discover new destinations!
An experience box
Most people know experience boxes for gifting a quirky night in a treehouse or a relaxing weekend retreat. But hiking experience boxes exist too! They typically offer a guided hike for 2 adults — lasting several hours — whether on foot, on snowshoes in the mountains, by bike, or something else entirely. And if you can't find what you're after in existing boxes, nothing stops you from creating your own! A gift that could delight even the most complete beginners looking to hike with a guide.
A coffee table book
A hiking trip takes planning and organisation — but it also starts with a dream. Beautiful landscape books or guidebooks can spark that dream. Has your friend always wanted to hike in Lapland? Give them a book showcasing the most stunning Lapland scenery! You might just be the one to plant that seed.
