Twenty Five Dollar Gifts For Hiking Everyone Will Love!

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25 of the Coolest Gifts Under $25 for Hikers Who Have Everything (Except These!)

You know what’s better than an epic hike? Hitting the trail with gear that doesn’t break the bank!

When I first dove into hiking, I had serious sticker shock.

So, I got smart—asking for hiking gear as birthday and holiday gifts became my thing. Now, every year, I make a wish list and share it with family and friends.

And the best part? Each time I’m out on the trail, using that gear reminds me of the person who gave it to me.

These 25 items are some of our all-time favorites, and we gift them constantly because they’re so useful!

If you’re searching for the coolest gifts under $25 or thoughtful gifts for hikers, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re hunting for good gifts for hikers or need last-minute Christmas gifts for hikers, these 25 picks under $25 are guaranteed to bring smiles (and maybe some trail envy)!

Table of Contents *Jump To the Top


S-Biner

The S-Biner is perfect for holding keys, water bottles, or even tools—clipped it inside my Osprey backpack to avoid those "where are my keys?" moments. A stainless-steel essential that can handle up to 25 lbs, it’s a practical, unique gift under $25 for any outdoor lover.


Melasa Hat with Rechargeable light

The Melasa Hat with Rechargeable Light is one of our go-to gifts for hikers. I wear mine all winter long, whether it’s for early morning hikes or dusk dog walks.

It’s cozy, easy to recharge, and a breeze to wash—just pop out the light! Perfect for anyone who needs hands-free lighting in the cold.

*With up to 8 hours of light on a single charge and a standard USB port, the Melasa Hat makes it easy to power up on the go—no extra cables or batteries needed!


Goodr Sunglass

Goodr Sunglasses are must-have twenty-five-dollar gifts for any outdoor lover. With polarized, UV400 lenses and a snug, no-bounce fit, they're perfect for all those Colorado adventures where sunglasses are essential—it’s like being closer to heaven up here!

A few pairs are always stashed in the car, the pack, and around the house because, let’s be real, paying a fortune for shades that get taken on and off constantly feels like a waste.

These sunglasses deliver amazing quality without breaking the bank!

Check out their many styles and options!


Buff:

I started wearing Buffs during marathon training, and it’s been a go-to ever since. It blocks wind in winter and keeps me cool on hot summer hikes—plus, with recycled materials and odor control, it’s a super practical gift for under $25!


Darn Tough Socks

Darn Tough Socks are the real deal! I wore a pair on almost every hike one summer, and when they finally got a hole, I sent them in and got a free replacement—lifetime warranty for the win!

Plus, the merino wool is soft and never scratchy, keeping your feet comfy all day. These socks are perfect gifts for an outdoor guy or gal who values durable, non-itchy gear for any adventure.


Have you heard of the Kula Cloth?

It was recently mentioned on Backpacker Radio, one of the top outdoor podcasts, and after doing some research, it’s easy to see why it's perfect for outdoor adventures.

This reusable, antimicrobial pee cloth is ideal for staying clean when nature calls, featuring a soft, stain-resistant side and a waterproof side to keep hands dry.

It’s not only practical but also great for the environment.

The Kula Cloth makes a thoughtful gift for outdoorsy women who value sustainability while hitting the trail!

Titanium Emergency Whistle

As someone who's hiked Colorado trails for over 26 years, I've only seen a bear once—but safety is something I never take lightly, especially when solo hiking.

The Vargo Titanium Whistle might seem like overkill, but trust me, you'll be glad to have it if you need it. Weighing just a tenth of an ounce, this 100+ decibel whistle is a must-have for any emergency kit.

For one of the coolest gifts under $25, it's an easy way to hike with peace of mind!


Patagonia Trucker Hat

In Colorado, hiking and sun protection go hand in hand, and rocking a cool hat makes the experience even better.

The Patagonia P-6 Logo Trucker Hat is a perfect fit—not only does it look great, but it’s made with environmentally friendly practices, like using recycled fishing nets for the brim.

Patagonia’s dedication to sustainability ensures their gear won’t end up in landfills, making this one of the coolest cheap gifts for hikers and any eco-conscious adventurer!


Hydro Flask Tumbler

I got my first Hydro Flask at an REI garage sale 12 years ago, and it still keeps my water super chill—perfect for all kinds of outdoor adventures.

Over the years, we’ve added more to our collection because, honestly, if one is great, why not have more?

With durable stainless steel, double-wall insulation, and a splash-resistant Press-In Straw Lid, it's one of the coolest $25 gifts for anyone who loves staying hydrated on the go!


Black Diamond Headlamp

Headlamps are one of the most versatile pieces of gear around. Whether it’s making backpacking easier, late-night reading in bed, or my husband using it for car repairs, our headlamps get plenty of action.

We always keep one in our packs because you never know when you’ll need a little extra light.

With features like dual-fuel power, brightness memory, and stormproof protection, it's one of those unique gifts under $25 that’s both practical and essential for any adventurer!


Trekology Backpacking Camping Pillow

Sleeping well on the trail is a game-changer, and the Trekology pillow delivers every time. Melody discovered it while prepping for a Mt. Kilimanjaro summit, and it’s been a go-to ever since. Now, it’s a staple in the family’s camping gear.

Slip it into an air mattress for a secure fit and a great night’s sleep. Compact, lightweight, and durable, this pillow is perfect for any adventure.

With anti-slip dots and a latch strap, the Trekology pillow stays in place, offering ultimate comfort whether you're in the mountains or tucked into a tent.


REI Travel Kit

For anyone who loves to travel, staying organized on the road is essential, and the REI Travel Kit is the perfect solution!

Before COVID, Melody was off leading trips around the world for two weeks at a time, and this little gem became her go-to item for keeping her gear in order.

It’s so handy that she’s hung it on everything from car mirrors to tree branches at camp!

The zip-open design features mesh pockets and bottle loops, ensuring everything stays in place—no more digging around for essentials. Plus, it’s lightweight, tough, and eco-friendly, meeting bluesign criteria. For a twenty-five dollar gift, it’s a serious winner for anyone who loves to stay organized while adventuring.


Camping Towel

Do you hate being dirty on the trail? Many hikers struggle to stay clean and often end up lugging around too much fabric.

Enter the camp towel: small but mighty!

This lightweight option is perfect for drying off quickly on the trail, whether after a refreshing dip in an alpine lake or during unexpected summer rainstorms. It’s saved the day on countless backpacking trips, swiftly mopping up water and drying out in no time.

Perfect for quick camp baths or refreshing dips in alpine lakes, this lightweight, compact towel dries in a flash and makes for one of the best gifts for hikers who want to stay fresh on the go!


Titanium Dig Trowel

Don’t get caught in a pinch—whether you need to dig a cathole or fix a broken tent pole, this titanium tool has your back.

The Vargo Titanium trowel is perfect for those “oh shit” moments on the trail. Lightweight but strong, it makes quick work of both digging and securing your shelter.

For twenty-five dollar gifts, this one’s a lifesaver for any outdoor adventurer!


PACT Wipes and Towels

When nature calls in the wild, these little guys pack a BIG punch in wiping out toxins. Don’t leave anything behind with the towel that could!

With just a squirt of water, the dehydrated PACT Wipes unfold into a thick 9-inch towel, keeping you cleaner than traditional toilet paper. It's one of the best options when searching for twenty five dollar gifts that hikers will actually use.

The PACT Tabs use a noninvasive species of mycelium to break down waste faster—just toss a few tabs in your cathole, cover with dirt, and let nature do its thing. Makes for a perfect pick when you're thinking about unique gifts under $25!

*Make sure to Leave No Trace and pack out anything not biological.

Makes for a great pick when you’re thinking about unique gifts under $25!


Firebiner

I always worry about having the right tools when I’m out hiking, but this multipurpose tool has been a game-changer! It’s a carabiner that hooks easily onto my pack, so it’s always within reach.

The replaceable ferro rod (extra rods included) and patent-pending Spark Wheel make starting fires a breeze. Plus, it features a screwdriver tip for quick fixes and hang slots for my keys or other small items.

And when camp is set up, use the built-in bottle opener to crack open a cold one! It’s the perfect option for Christmas gifts for under $25!


Dagmi Outdoors Emergency Blankets

These Dagmi Outdoors Emergency Blankets could literally save your life! My family and I keep one in our backpacks and a few in each car for winter emergencies.

Be prepared for any situation with their quality blankets, ultra-compact in a ripstop waterproof bag and housed in a durable hard-shell EVA case with a screw-lock carabiner.

Designed by NASA, these Mylar blankets reflect 90% of body heat, keeping you warm and safe—because it’s smart to have a little “space” for safety! Ideal gifts for outdoorsy people who want to stay cozy on their adventures!

Use code “COHH” for 15% off.


Fireside Story Dice

Hiking gifts under $25 don't get much better than this fun storytelling game! I love how it turns spontaneous adventures into creative, laugh-out-loud moments.

Just roll the dice and create a story from the symbols that pop up—it’s perfect for keeping things light after a long hike. Compact enough to toss in your pack, it's also great for trail breaks or entertaining kids who need a distraction.

When you’re done, everything stores neatly in the tin. Whether you're enjoying a post-hike brew or cozying up at camp, this game always makes storytelling fun!


Fireside Gaming Kit

This game is just plain fun to have for hikes, camping trips, or even hanging out at home. It's not essential, but it’s great to toss in your pack when you want to add some easy entertainment.

The best part?

Everything’s in one spot, so it’s a grab-and-go game that you don’t have to think twice about. Plus, if you love card games, here's a link to some of our favorites. It's one of those hiking gifts under $25 that's fun to give and even better to use!


Stikky Tracks and Stikky Night Skies

We recently discovered these fun books, and we’re totally into them! I took Stikky Night Skies to the Great Sand Dunes International Dark Sky Park, and we had a blast stargazing and learning along the way.

If you’ve ever felt bored on a hike or wondered what woodland creatures are crossing your path, Stikky Tracks is a must-have. It’s one of those great gifts for under $25 that turns nature exploration into a super fun adventure!

You'll be amazed at how quickly you can learn to identify 14 animals by their tracks, poop, and other signs, all while enjoying the great outdoors.


Dirty Gourmet cookbook

For many outdoor enthusiasts, cooking is just as enjoyable as hiking, and the Dirty Gourmet cookbook is a game changer for prepping for camping trips!

Packed with over 120 delicious recipes for everything from day hikes to backcountry adventures, it’s a fantastic gift for under $25 that anyone will love. The meals are spot on, and the granola brittle recipe is a year-round favorite!

What sets this cookbook apart is how easy it is to whip up tasty dishes, with mouthwatering pictures that make cooking feel effortless—like having a friend in the kitchen guiding you.

If you know a couple who loves the outdoors, it’s the perfect wedding gift—just add a spatula and bowl!


Anker Power Bank

This Anker Power Bank is my go-to for all my adventures—planes, trains, and hiking trails! When I'm exploring Colorado, cell service can be hit or miss, so I rely on my phone for maps and photos. This little guy is super light but has some serious power!

It’s slim enough to fit in my pack and provides two full charges for my iPhone 15. Plus, it’s tough—dropped it a few times, and it still works like a charm. With two-way USB-C charging, it’s quick and easy to recharge. *Now, if only someone could tell me how to remember the charging cord!


Squirrel’s Nut Butter

We’ve all been there: you finish an epic hike or workout, and then you’re gritting your teeth in the shower as you discover those sneaky chafed spots. That’s where Squirrel’s Nut Butter comes in!

This stuff was originally designed for bikers (and you can imagine how that goes), but I’ve found it to be a lifesaver on my hiking and trail running days.

It’s all-natural and works wonders to protect your skin from chafing and blisters. Plus, the 2 oz. compostable tube is super easy to throw in my pack, so I always have it on hand for my next adventure. If you’re on the hunt for unique gifts for outdoor lovers, I can’t recommend this enough.

Trust me; it’ll make your outdoor days way more comfortable!


Compression Stuff Sacks

Compression sacks are a secret weapon for many hikers on the trail! For day hikes, they’re perfect for stuffing in layers because, let’s face it, 14ers can feel like winter at the top, even in summer.

They’re also a lifesaver for trips, making it easy to stash all that dirty laundry away until the end!

This set comes in three sizes, providing options for all kinds of gear. Lightweight and durable, the straps help keep everything compressed and organized.

These sacks are highly recommended for anyone looking to stay organized on hikes and trips!


Ubeesize Tripod

I love taking pictures while hiking, especially since I often go solo. This little tripod has been a game changer! It wraps around trees, clings to logs, and perches on rocks for those perfect shots.

At just $15, it’s an awesome gift for anyone who loves the outdoors—channel your inner Oprah and share the love!

This lightweight, flexible tripod works with both phones and cameras, and I've had mine for over four years.

The sturdy metal legs grip well, and it even has a wireless remote for selfies or videos from up to 30 feet away.

If you're looking for a handy gadget for your hikes, this tripod is a must-have!


As you gear up for your next outdoor adventure, remember that the perfect gifts don’t have to break the bank! With our selection of twenty five dollar gifts, you’ll find 25 delightful options under $25 that every hiker will appreciate.

From handy tools to cozy essentials, these good gifts for hikers are sure to add a touch of joy to every journey.

We hope you love giving them as much as we do—because there’s nothing quite like the thrill of sharing a thoughtful gift.

Whether you're hitting the trails or relaxing at home, let these gifts inspire more fun and exploration in the great outdoors!

For even more fun gift ideas, dive into our other exciting guides tailored specifically for women and 10 must have gifts for campers that will elevate every outdoor adventure!

Melodie MonbergComment