If you're like most people, the holiday shopping experience can be challenging. While some of the people on your list are easy to shop for and seem to be happy with just about anything, others pose a little bit more of a challenge.
If you happen to have serious outdoor enthusiasts in your life, then they probably fall somewhere in between the two extremes. On the one hand, you know they'd love gifts that speak to their profound love of sunshine and fresh air, but, on the other, you're understandably worried about choosing the wrong thing.
That's where we come in! Here, we'll go over some can't-miss gift ideas any outdoor enthusiasts are guaranteed to deliver great results! We promise they'll get years of good use out of each one. Which of the following will make the cut for the special people in your life?
For Serious Campers
If you've got hardcore campers in your life, they're always the first to suggest a family trip to a national park or a new campsite they've heard about once the weather turns cools down. They know all the important flora and fauna to watch for at each location. They probably even enjoy their best sleep underneath the stars. Make those people's holiday special this season with a gift like one of the following items:
Orca Cooler
Serious outdoor enthusiasts often like to plan camping trips that last a little longer than just a weekend. However, even folks that are truly committed to roughing it get tired of dining on peanut butter, beef jerky, and other non-perishables after a while. That's where an Orca cooler makes the perfect gift.
Orca coolers are capable of keeping food cool and safe for up to eight consecutive days, so they're perfect for week-long camping, fishing, or hunting trips. Plus, Orca products are seriously heavy-duty, and most come with a lifetime guarantee--something any outdoorsperson can appreciate.
Heavy-Duty Hammock
Sure, a standard tent is fine for sleeping and keeping warm. However, serious nature lovers wouldn't consider any camping trip complete without relaxing under the stars or a particularly beautiful canopy of breathtaking foliage. A durable camping hammock is the ideal way to enjoy a little stargazing, some light reading, or even a quick cat nap out in the fresh air and sunshine.
Try an extra-roomy option like the ENO Double Nest for maximum comfort. A Double Nest is generous enough for two adults to use simultaneously. However, it's also durable enough to stand up to the elements and lightweight enough not to weigh you down as you move from place to place. Pack enough for everyone in your camping party to use, and we guarantee a great time to remember!
Safety Gear
Even a really experienced outdoorsperson can occasionally wind up lost in the woods, and trust us when we say there's nothing scarier than that feeling. Even in the day and age of the ubiquitous cell phone, you can't count on being able to get a signal absolutely anywhere, especially when you're out in the wilderness.
Consider stuffing your favorite campers' stockings with a handy gadget like a GPS messenger this year. It's capable of tracking them wherever they go, no matter how far they wander. It also ensures that help is never more than a button click away.
For Aspiring Trailblazers
Not everyone locked in a love affair with the great outdoors feels the need to spend the night in the wilderness. Some love nothing more than traveling to a favorite hiking site, spotting a new trail they'd like to try, and putting one foot in front of the other as they soak up the sights. Hiking's a really healthy way to spend your time, too! If you know people who are avid hikers, consider encouraging their interest by giving them one of the following items this year. They'll love you for it!
Timberland Hiking Boots
If the hikers in your life are still blazing trails in tennis shoes, we can't think of a better holiday gift than a serious pair of hiking boots from a top brand like Timberland. Feet need adequate support, especially when exploring uneven terrain. They need to be fully protected against any possible hazards as well, and that's exactly where Timberland boots excel.
Timberland hiking boots are waterproof and weatherproof to keep feet warm and dry under any possible weather conditions. Features like heavy-duty traction outsoles, crush-proof toe guards, gusset tongues to keep out debris, and anti-fatigue technology certainly don't hurt, either. The hiking enthusiasts in your life won't be able to believe how much better they feel after a long day on the trail!
North Face Outerwear
Besides the proper footwear for the trail, you need performance outerwear, especially this time of year. You never know when the wind might decide to whip up or when you'll find yourself caught in an unexpected rain shower.
Try an option like this thermal Sherpa jacket from North Face. It's insulated and soft, so you can be sure it'll keep you warm no matter what type of weather Mother Nature throws at you. It's also lightweight enough that it won't weigh you down when you want to stay light on your feet. And, did we mention that it's also waterproof?
Insulated Lunch Tote
You don't need to spend entire nights in the wilderness to need a little sustenance. Even those who enjoy a causal afternoon hikes will need to stop and refresh themselves sooner or later. Why settle for trail mix and dried fruit when you can treat yourself to a wonderful light lunch with all your favorite food instead?
Insulated lunch boxes from brands like Kavu were made with those needs in mind. Padding, insulation, and handy compartments make it possible to pack and protect a hot or cold lunch of your choice. Handles, secure zippers, and heavy-duty adjustable straps make it easy to take your meal anywhere you travel.
For Picnic Lovers
Of course, not every outdoor enthusiast is all about roughing it or going too far off the beaten trail. Some people just like the feeling of the sun on their skin and a gentle breeze in their hair while they read in the park, chat with friends, or enjoy a picnic at the beach on a nice day. If that sounds like people you know, you'll definitely want to pursue the following gift ideas.
Stainless Steel Chasers
Picnic baskets and deliciously prepared fare aren't the only things that are important when it comes to putting together the ideal picnic. A relaxed outdoor event isn't complete without the right cocktails or mocktails, if you prefer. Stainless steel tumblers and insulated options like the Orca Chasertini make maintaining the ideal temperature of your drink a simple process.
They are capable of keeping your drink cold or hot for hours, thanks to vacuum seals, copper linings, and food-grade steel bodies. Mix your martinis, mojitos, or hot toddies at home, pour them into your chasers, and rest easy in the knowledge that they'll still be the ideal sipping temperature by the time cocktail hour rolls arrives.
Cozy Ponchos
Any serious picnic enthusiast can tell you that you never want to arrive at your location without a way to keep warm in a pinch. However, there's just something about a full-on jacket that seems to defeat the purpose of going to the beach or the park in the first place, and hoodies aren't necessarily for everyone.
People who consider being stylish to be just as important as keeping warm will definitely appreciate receiving a fashionable poncho as a holiday gift. This cozy accessory won't cramp their style when it comes to relaxing outdoors. Luxurious fabrics like chenille, faux fur, or cable-knit cotton ensure they'll look as wonderful as they feel when they wear it.
Ballet Flats
Nothing complements a delicious picnic and a couple of cold drinks quite like a light stroll afterward. However, not every picnic lover is necessarily a tennis shoe person, especially if the picnic is also a special occasion. A pair of ballet flats is the perfect solution for any occasion when you want to look sophisticated and put-together, but heels just aren't an option.
Look for a pretty but understated pair your special someone will wear all the time. Neutrals like black, taupe, or chocolate go with almost any ensemble. However, you shouldn't necessarily overlook alternatives with more personality. Think cute animal print alternatives, subtle embellishments, or interesting patterns!
For Ocean Lovers and Boating Enthusiasts
Who says the passions of outdoor enthusiasts only extend to activities that are done on dry land? If you're lucky enough to live near a large body of water like an ocean, lake, or a river, the chances are pretty good that you know some people who love nothing more than spending the day near the water. Treat them to one of the following popular gifts this holiday season, and you'll delight your friends and family.
Boat Shoes
Whether the outdoor enthusiast loves sailing or spends long days walking up and down the docks watching the waves, they absolutely need a good pair of boat shoes. Not only do they help you keep your footing under wet, slippery conditions, but they're among the most fashion-forward footwear options to have in your closet right now, as well.
Look for unique offerings from brands like Sperry that are world-famous for designing iconic boat shoes. Go with a classic oiled leather model or think outside the box with a pair of tennis-shoe-inspired boat shoes that really break the mold. There are even slip-on laceless boat shoes for folks who don't like to deal with shoe laces.
Knit Beanies
Even in the warmer spring and summer months, the wind can really escalate unexpectedly near the ocean or the river. Water-loving adventurers can never have too many stylish ways to keep their heads warm and protected from the elements. After all, you can only wear a baseball cap so many times before you lose it to the sea!
A knit beanie makes an amazing alternative for both men and women. Not only are beanies fashionable right now, but they are soft, comfortable, versatile as well.
Waterproof Sandals
While the feeling of the sand between your bare toes and the waves lapping at your ankles is relaxing, sometimes you just really need the support and protection of an actual shoe. A serious beachcomber needs more than a flimsy dime store flip-flops to go the distance.
Treat that special someone to a pair of waterproof sandals from a top brand like OluKai or Chaco instead! They're as supportive and comfortable as any other shoe, but are also waterproof and designed for wet conditions. They're perfect for shell collectors, surfers, or anyone else who loves to spend their time by the water!
Of course, these are just a few of the many gift options out there that the outdoor enthusiasts in your life would be thrilled to receive this holiday season. Each one is not only useful and practical but stylish and fun to receive. Add them to your shopping list today, and we guarantee happy faces when it's time to exchange gifts!
