Best outdoor gifts of 2022

 

Which outdoor gifts are best? 

Do you need gift ideas for the adventurer in your life? If you’re looking for something special to accompany them on their next excursion, you’ll find something for everyone in this outdoor gift guide.

 

Whether you're buying for someone who loves camping, hiking, outdoor sports, or simply getting closer to nature, there's an option out there. Pick carefully and you'll find a gift they'll use again and again, rather than something that will end up gathering dust. 

Best camping gifts

For the fire pit fan

Solo Stove Lite Portable Camping Stove

From the campsite to the beach to tailgating parties, this portable fire pit-meets-camping stove is always a hit. SoloStove's 360-degree Airflow technology creates an efficient, low-smoke burn that reduces wood to a fine ash, making cleanup quick and easy. Sold by Amazon

 

For the camper in a hurry

Coleman 6-Person Skydome Tent

In this updated Coleman tent, occupants will enjoy 20% more headroom thanks to nearly vertical walls. The tent sets up in less than five minutes, and it offers superior weather protection with inverted seams and patented welded corners. Sold by Amazon

 

For someone who needs a cooler upgrade

Yeti Tundra 35 Cooler

When it comes to keeping cold stuff cold, it doesn’t get any better than a Yeti cooler. These insulated chests keep ice frozen for three to five days, and they’re pretty much indestructible — cooler fell out of the truck? No problem. Sold by Yeti and Amazon

 

For the camper who likes to relax 

Cliq Camping Chair

Not only does this new camping chair support up to 300 pounds, which is more than most, but it also folds down into a bottle-sized bundle for easy packing. The simple, pop-up design only takes seconds to set up and break down. Sold by Amazon

 

For the person who loves being prepared for anything

Leatherman Wave Plus Multi-Tool

While everyone can benefit from owning a multitool, those who frequent the outdoors stand to gain the most from owning one. The Wave Plus, Leatherman’s update to the iconic Wave, is made of durable stainless steel and will last for decades of use.  Sold by Amazon

 

Other top deals in this space

• This cozy insulated outdoor blanket is perfect for nights around the campfire
• A lightweight cot for a more comfortable night's sleep
• For hot nights, a battery-operated camping fan makes all the difference 
• This camping hammock can be used for sleeping or just relaxing
• Campers will appreciate an LED lantern to light up their tent or illuminate the way at night
• To keep devices charged on a long camping trip, a solar power bank is an excellent option
• Extendible marshmallow roasting sticks are just what's needed for making s'mores around a fire
• Coffee-loving campers will appreciate this portable manual coffee maker 
• Keen camp cooks can make elaborate meals with the right camping stove.
• A camping cook set featuring plates, bowls, pots, and utensils is a practical gift for campers
• Magical flames color campfires to add a touch of whimsy to evenings telling stories and toasting marshmallows 
• With this waterproof flameless plasma lighter, it's always possible to get a fire started 
• These biodegradable body wipes are great for taking on camping trips where there's no access to a shower

Best hiking gifts

For the hiker who travels light

LifeStraw Water Filter

Anyone with serious backpacking or hiking experience knows that clean drinking water can be hard to come by when you’re away from civilization. LifeStraw’s water filters let you drink from creeks and rivers without having to worry about swallowing bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Sold by Amazon

 

For someone who needs better boots

Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots

There’s an old saying in the backpacking community: For every pound you add to your feet, you add 10 to your pack. These lightweight, supportive, and waterproof boots are a favorite for all-day rugged excursions.  Sold by Amazon, Backcountry, and Dick’s Sporting Goods

 

For the hiker who needs sun protection

Buff CoolNet UV+ Print Buff

 

This bestselling buff offers UPF 50+ sun protection, but that’s not all; it's made with odor-repellent microfiber that is breathable and quick-drying. The buff can be worn in 12 different ways, including as a balaclava or headband. Sold by Amazon, Backcountry and Dick's Sporting Goods

 

For all-terrain hikers 

Mountainsmith CarbonlitePro Trekking Poles

These high-performance hiking poles are ideal for traversing rocky or muddy terrain. They have a spring-loaded anti-shock system to reduce fatigue during use, plus they have locking pins that are compatible with snow baskets. Sold by Backcountry

 

For hikers who need to stay hydrated

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle

Hydro Flask’s insulated water bottle keeps warm drinks piping hot and cool drinks ice cold for several hours. It has a rugged stainless steel body and a slip-resistant coating to offer a solid grip even when hands are sweaty.  Sold by Amazon

 

Other top deals in this space

• These cargo hiking pants are both stylish and practical for long hikes. 
• Hiking socks made from high-performance technical materials for all-day comfort. 
• Lightweight yet roomy, this hiking pack has plenty of room to store essentials and includes a water bladder.
• For shorter hikes or people who prefer to travel light, this waist pack is the way to go. 
• Heavy duty carabiners because hikers can never have too many of them. 
• Not only is this paracord bracelet a rugged-looking accessory, but it also has an integrated compass, fire starter, and emergency whistle. 
• This GPS navigator is perfect for hikers who venture well off the beaten track. 
• Head torches are perfect for evening hikes or in case of getting stuck out after dark in an emergency.
• Rugged, waterproof, and dustproof, this portable speaker is just right for outdoor adventures. 
• Sport sandals are great for hiking easy trails or on days when it's too hot for boots.
• Compact emergency blankets are ideal for hikers who take challenging routes that could get them into trouble. 

Best pet-related outdoor gifts

For keeping dogs hydrated on hikes

Dexas Pets Collapsible Travel Cup

This collapsible travel food and water bowl is durably made and dishwasher-safe. It comes with a carabiner so users can clip it onto backpacks or leashes to keep it easily accessible. Sold by Amazon and Chewy

 

For people who want to take their cat everywhere

Texsens Pet Backpack Carrier

If you know someone who wants to take their cat with them on their outdoor adventures, this is the perfect gift. While not all cats will love it, felines comfortable with carriers who like seeing the outside world will be safe and comfortable inside. Sold by Amazon

 

 

For winter walks

WeatherBeeta Comfitec Reflective Parka 300D Deluxe Dog Coat

Outdoorsy pet owners needn't worry about their dogs on cold days with this warm and cozy parka coat. It's extremely rugged and has reflective piping for better low-light visibility. Sold by Amazon

 

For fun on the water

Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket

Dogs can safely join people out on a boat, on kayaking trips, or at the beach with this canine life jacket. It's well-fitting with a front float to keep the head out of the water and handles to lift the wearer if they get into trouble.  Sold by Amazon

 

For all-day hikes

Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack

This dog backpack lets medium and large dogs carry some of their own gear on an all-day hike to lighten the load for their humans. There's plenty of space for essentials such as food, water, treats, and poop bags.  Sold by Amazon and Chewy

 

Other top deals in this space

• A portable dog water bottle with a built-in drinking bowl to keep dogs hydrated on long hikes. 
• This light-up harness makes dogs more visible in low light and after dark. 
• Cyclists who want to take their pets everywhere will love this dog bicycle trailer. 
• Durable yet lightweight and breathable, this is a perfect harness for all-day adventures. 
• This cooling vest will keep dogs safe and comfortable on warm days. 
• Providing traction and protecting paws from glass or sharp rocks, these dog boots are perfect for challenging hikes or unknown terrain. 
• With a treat pouch, pet parents can more easily pack treats and small accessories for their pets.
• This hands-free leash makes it easier to hike with dogs in areas where they must be kept on a leash. 
• Prepare for unexpected showers with a packable dog raincoat. 
• Cyclists can safely ride with their dogs next to them using this bicycle exerciser.
• Dog paw cleaners are perfect for use after muddy hikes. 

Best outdoor gifts for nature lovers

For the wildlife watcher

Celestron Nature DX 8x42 Binoculars Outdoor and Birding Binocular

With powerful magnification and quality lenses that provide bright, high-definition images, these binoculars are perfect for spotting birds and other wildlife. They even come with a handy case for on-the-go use. Sold by Amazon

 

For the butterfly fan

 

Uncommon Goods Butterfly Puddler

Made from stoneware and recycled glass, this little device attracts butterflies. It has a small well to fill with water and when that water evaporates, butterflies are drawn to the minerals left behind. Sold by Uncommon Goods

 

For bringing nature to the window

 

Nature's Hangout Clear Window Bird Feeder

Even the most dedicated nature lovers can't spend every hour of the day inside. This window-mounted bird feeder brings nature closer, so the recipient can enjoy the beauty of birds even when they're stuck indoors. Sold by Amazon

 

For the birder

 

Letterfolk Bird Passport Journal

This super compact birding journal has space for bird watchers to record their spots. It features 20 entry pages and another eight pages of checklists, bucket lists, and activities. Sold by Amazon

 

For the squirrel enthusiast

 

Heritage Farms Woodlink Squirrel Diner Feeder

While some people do everything they can to stop squirrels from getting into their bird feeders, others are more than happy to feed these furry critters. This feeder holds up to 4 pounds of peanuts, corn, or a wildlife mix. Sold by Amazon

 

Other top deals in this space

• Made from sea grass and sari cuttings, this bird nester is a sustainable gift for nature lovers. 
• This roomy bird feeder holds 8 pounds of seed and keeps squirrels at bay. 
• For lovers of the natural world, a guide to the wildflowers of North America is a thoughtful gift. 
• Each of these sets of three wildflower seed mixes is formulated with the needs of pollinators in mind. 
• Approved by the Organization for Bat Conservation, this bat house provides shelter for local bats.
• Hummingbird feeders attract and provide food for those affordable birds. 
• For people who love bees, this bee drinking ball is designed to trap water so these tiny pollinators aren't short of something to drink. 
• This set of postcards with vintage nature designs is perfect for stationery fans. 
• Bird baths give garden birds somewhere to bathe and drink. 
• Ideal for amateur mycologists, this mushroom grow kit contains everything needed to grow oyster mushrooms.

Best outdoor sports gifts

For the skier or snowboarder

 

Oakley O-Frame 2.0 PRO XL Snow Goggles

These midrange snow goggles by a trusted brand feature a low-profile frame design that boosts visibility. Besides 100% protection against UVA, UVB, and UVC rays, the goggles filter out blue light and have an anti-fog coating. Sold by Amazon

 

 

For the keen cyclist

 

Ortlieb Saddle Bag Two

This roll-top saddle bag offers quick access to snacks and has a secure strap system that stops it from swaying during rides. As a bonus, it has Scotchlite 3M reflector details that boost visibility to drivers, pedestrians, and fellow cyclists in low-light conditions. Sold by Backcountry

 

For the fitness fan

Garmin Instinct Solar Rugged Outdoor Smartwatch

A top-of-the-line model, this Garment smartwatch is specially made for the outdoors with solar-charging capabilities, a rugged case, and a three-axis compass. Besides tracking activity levels, it offers comprehensive health monitoring by tracking heart rate, sleep, and pulse ox. Sold by Amazon and Backcountry

 

 

For the water lover

 

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak 2-Person Inflatable Kayak

Do you know someone who's always wanted to give kayaking a try or who enjoys kayaking but doesn't have their own kayak? This inflatable model is a great starter kayak and packs down small so storage isn't such an issue. Sold by Amazon

 

For the golfer

 

TaylorMade Select Stand Bag

Lightweight yet durable, this bag is a great choice for any keen golfer. It stands independently and has a carrying strap, which is great when not using a golf cart. Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods

 

Other top deals in this space

• With a hands-free water pack, it's easy to stay hydrated during any sporting activity. 
• This windproof and water-resistant cycling jacket keeps bikers comfortable in all weather. 
• Insulated snow pants are ideal for fans of winter sports. 
• These running gloves are designed to keep hands warm without overheating during exercise. 
• A nifty little rehooking device that helps cyclists put the chain back on their bikes in mere seconds with no mess.
• Treat sore muscles and aching feet with this salve. 
• Thanks to this rock climbing training board, keen climbers can build their arm and finger strength at home. 
• Thanks to this action camera, people can easily capture the magic of their outdoor sporting pursuits. 
• Not only are these trail running shoes great for hitting the trails but they have enough grip for all kinds of outdoor sports. 
• This complete skateboard is a fun gift for an adventurous sports fan or lover of extreme sports.
• For fans of water sports, this inflatable paddle board is great fun. 
• Dry bags help keep belongings safe while kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, and engaging in other water-based activities. 
• Croquet sets let players have outdoor fun closer to home.

Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals. 
 

Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
 

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.