Gifts For Backpackers In 2022
For those of you friends with someone who has a wild, insatiable hunger for adventure, finding the best gifts for backpackers is the perfect way to treat them before they head off into the sunset on their next destination. They know more than anybody else the travel itch is never truly scratched, and so instead of trying to convince them to hang around just a little longer this time, you can instead, at the very least, give them something that makes this trip the best one yet (and also give them something to remember you by).
Previously, we’ve listed the best travel adapters, quality notebooks for explorers them record their experience, and provided top tips for safety and prevent getting scammed, but instead of asking you to jump around, here are the best gifts ideas all in one place that doesn’t require you to remember your passport.
Gift For Backpackers
1Kindle Paperwhite
No gifts for backpackers list would be complete without something to keep them entertained on endless train journeys, frustrating layovers, or just chilling at the hostel waiting for the party to start, but any experienced backpacker knows it’s counterproductive to lug around their entire bookshelf, which is why the Kindle Paperwhite is the perfect solution.
With a spectacular battery life that will last up to a week along with a high-resolution display and enough storage (either 8GB or 32GB) to contain everything they could ever read, an e-reader is the perfect traveling companion. They are lightweight, and new editions even boast wifi connectivity, so if they need to update their friends just how good the latest Pulitzer winner is, they can do it without even switching devices. An amazing travel gift for backpackers.
Wifi enabled
6” screen
High resolution display
Long battery life
Adjustable light
Thousands of available titles
8 GB or 32 GB
- BrandAmazon
- ModelB00OQVZDJM
- Weight7.2 ounces
2Anker PowerCore
Considering we live in an age of always-needing-to-be-connected, the Anker PowerCore is the reliable friend we always dreamed of. It’s compatible with all smartphones, and with 20100mAh, it packs enough juice to charge your phone completely up to 7 times.
The PowerIQ and VoltageBoost features ensure your device charges quickly and efficiently, and the dual USB ports mean there’s the chance to be a good Samaritan and help out a traveler in need. For serious travelers hoping to leap right off the beaten path, they should not leave the hostel without this gadget.
4.8A output
20100mAh
PowerIQ
Compatible with iPhone, Samsung, and more
MultiProtect safety system
VoltageBoost
10 hour recharge
Holds up to 7 charges
2 USB ports
- BrandAnker
- ModelAK-A1271011
- Weight12.5 ounces
3Tribit Bluetooth Speaker
If there’s one thing that brings people together, especially when backpacking, it’s having a good time, and the Tribit Bluetooth Speaker is the perfect way to get the party started. It boasts deep, thumping bass that may rattle the single-glazed windows of your hostel, but that won’t matter once everyone gets up on the table with a cheeky cocktail in hand as you all belt out the words to Mr. Brightside.
The 360-degree sound means no one will ask you to turn it up, while the waterproof design ensures it can survive the odd spill of toppling into the pool. This Bluetooth speaker delivers a massive 20 hours of continuous playtime, so the party will last through the night and into the morning.
360-degree immersive sound
XBass technology
Waterproof
20 hour playtime
2600mAh battery
Compact and portable
- BrandTribit
- ModelBTS30
- Weight1.2 pounds
4Alpine Rivers Money Belt
Keeping your cash and valuables safe when on the move is something all backpackers worry about at some point which is why we’ve made the Alpine Rivers Money Belt our best value pick of the backing gifts. The discreet design fits snugly under your shift, while the multiple pockets provide enough storage space for your phone, RFID wallet, room key, and that cute server’s number.
Also included are 7 RFID bonus sleeves to prevent sneaky scammers scanning your details as they bustle past you in some of the world’s busiest cities, because you don’t want to get to the end of your stay and try to pay your tab only to find your account completely drained.
RFID blocking
Water-resistant
Ultra-lightweight
Multiple pockets
7 bonus sleeves
Fits most smartphones
FeelSoft mesh
- BrandAlpine Rivers
- ModelAR-RFIDB0CB
- Weight4 ounces
5Leatherman Sidekick Pocket Size Multi-Tool
Problems like delayed flights, sub-par accommodation, and awful weather are unpreventable when traveling, but with the Leatherman Sidekick Pocket Size Multi-Tool you’ll at least control other aspects of the journey.
Whether you’re renting motorbikes in Vietnam or need to open a tin of beans as you survive on a shoestring, having a multi tool is essential for easing the potentially troubled waters of backpacking. This lightweight tool fits right in your pocket, while the lanyard ring gives you the option to hang it around your neck for better safety and fast access.
14 tools
Knives, pliers, bolt cutters, can opener
One-handed use
Lanyard ring
25 year limited warranty
Nylon sheath
- BrandLeatherman
- Model831429
- Weight6.9 ounces
6Active Roots Double Camping Hammock
While backpacking is a lot of go, go, go with hardly a moment to rest, you’ll relish the chance to treat yourself to some rest in one of the comfiest ways imaginable. The Active Roots Double Camping Hammock is just that kind of treat.
This hammock comes in 4 colors and boasts a compact and lightweight design to prevent it from bulking up your already bulging pack. The durable nylon ensures longevity, while the two-person style means you’ll be the most popular guy on the trail. It comes with sturdy tree straps designed to prevent damage to the tree, and as a bonus, 5% of the sale goes to the Elephant Conservation Center in Laos.
4 colors
Tree straps
Compact and lightweight
Durable nylon
Carabiners
5% of sale donated to charity
- BrandActive Roots
- ModelB072PVRCMS
- Weight2.3 pounds
7TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack
It shouldn’t be a surprise something as comprehensive and reliable as the TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack has a place in our selection of the best gifts for backpackers because without a backpacking backpack, how are you going to carry your stuff?
At 55 liters, it’s the perfect size for quick adventures, but smart packers should be able to live out of it for months without issue. Still, it’s not too large to become a hindrance, and with useful features like multiple pockets, comfortable molded channels, compression straps, and an integrated rainfly, you will be prepared for whatever the great wide world throws at you.
3400 cubic inches / 55 liter capacity
Multi-position torso strap
Open-cell foam lumbar pad
Molded channels
3 colors
Sleeping bag compartment
Multi-directional compressions straps
Bungee storage
Multiple pockets
Integrated rainfly
- BrandTETON Sports
- Model121T
- Weight4.5 pounds
8Hydro Flask Water Bottle
Here at Gear Hungry, we’re very passionate about the importance of staying hydrated whether at your desk, waiting for your 12-hour bus journey, or trekking through the Andes hoping to find lost cities of Gold, and the Hydro Flask Water Bottle is the perfect way to ensure you keep pesky headaches and exhaustion well and truly at bay.
This stylish water bottle comes in 9 colors and 2 sizes with an anti-slip grip that’s easy to chug whenever you feel parched along the trail. It’s insulated to keep your ice-cold water just that (because warm water is, literally, the worst), while the wide mouth straw prevents spillage of the precious liquid gold that’s often hard to come by on your travels.
9 colors
2 sizes
Slip-free grip
Insulated
Wide mouth straw
BPA-free
Keeps hot drinks for 6 hours
Keeps cold drink for 24 hours
Durable powder coat
- BrandHydro Flask
- ModelB01GW2GH4M
- Weight2.2 pounds
9PETZL Tikka Headlamp
If you’re ever lost in the wilderness way after sunset, having the PETZL Tikka Headlamp firmly strapped around your noggin could mean the difference between safety and endless wandering into the mouth of darkness. At 200 lumens, it lights the way better than your smartphone flashlight (while also conserving its energy), while the dual lights are great for signaling for help if needed. Although we hope that never happens.
The easy on/off switch is just a click away, while the wide beam spreads out to show you the path you need to take while also warning off potential predators. For those who like to explore until they can explore no more, this headlamp an absolute must, even if you think you know what you’re doing.
200 lumens
Comfortable strap
4 colors
Single on/off button
Reflective design
Wide beam
Red or white light
- BrandPETZL
- ModelE93AAB
- Weight2.88 ounces
10ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1 Person Tent
For lone wolves (or those prone to snoring) the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1 Person Tent is the perfect addition for longer hikes and treks where there’s not a hostel or hotel so miles. The freestanding, two-pole design is convenient and makes for a hassle-free setup, while the water-resistant fly protects from the elements and gives you extra storage space.
As you’d expect, there are plenty of additional features inside to make your night’s sleep a comfortable one in this solo tent. The zippers are tough, and storage pockets help you keep everything close by. There’s also a gear loft to give you a little more breathing room, so kick off your shoes and take a load off, you’ve earned it.
Freestanding
Two pole design
Water resistant polyester tent fly
Extra storage space
#8 zippers
Storage pockets
Gear loft
Guy ropes
- BrandALPS Mountaineering
- Model5024617
- Weight4.2 pounds
11Rainleaf Microfiber Towel
Your towel is always the last thing you think about when packing for your next adventure, but regular bath towels are heavy and bulky, which is the last thing you want on your travels. An excellent alternative to this is the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel, which is compact, quick-drying, and ultra-lightweight.
There are 7 colors to choose from with sizes ranging from extra small to extra extra large that are suitable for travelers of all types. Unlike questionable hostel towels, it’s also skin-friendly, while they carry case means it’s easy to pack away when you head off to your next destination.
7 colors
X-small to XX-large
Fast drying
Ultra compact and lightweight
Skin-friendly
Hand snap loop
Carry case
- BrandRainleaf
- ModelB07NDHJ6L6
- Weight13.8 ounces
12Bisgear 16 Piece Camping Cookware
Hiking and backpacking can be hungry work, which is why one of the best gifts for hikers we’ve come across is the comprehensive Bisgear 16 Piece Camping Cookware. This set contains everything you and your trekking team need to keep fueled during your adventure including cutlery, a pan and cover, and even a mini stove for morning coffees.
Everything is BPA free, and there’s a useful carry bag to keep everything together. Unlike other camping sets, it’s not too heavy, either, so there’s no need to worry about leaving it at home and instead of surviving off berries and twigs.
Easy to clean
Folding cutlery
Non-stick pot
Pan and cover
Carry bag
BPA free bowls
Mini stove with piezo ignition
Lightweight and durable
- BrandBisgear
- ModelB01KUFNXZ8
- Weight1.63 pounds
13ROXANT Grip Scope Monocular
Ideal for a variety of situations including bird or animal spotting and gauging distant routes or dangers, the ROXANT Grip Scope Monocular is a compact and comfortable way to enhance your vision to see what’s what when out in the wilderness.
The high definition scope gives you a clear picture of what’s beyond, while the wide view gives you a better idea of your surroundings. You can hang it from your belt or wear it around your neck for fast access, and the provided cleaning cloth removes smudges. Be sure to also check out our guide to the best compact binoculars that you may find useful during your adventures.
Non-slip grip
Easy to hold
Minimized shake
High definition scope
Wide view
Compact and durable
Cleaning cloth
Belt loop
Neck strap
- BrandROXANT
- ModelROX-GS
- Weight7.8 ounces
14GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug
A morning cup of Joe is the first thing most backpackers look forward to when waking up in a brand new city, and instead of sharing old and dirty hostel mugs with the other guests, you can use the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug to ensure you’ve always got a fresh cuppa.
It’s insulated to keep your drink warm, while the easy measuring reading ensures you can use it for more than just coffee if you catch our drift. It holds 17.5 fluid ounces, and the collapsible design means you can slip it into your bag when done, with others begin none the wiser. A perfect gift for coffee lovers who like backpacking.
Insulated
Environmentally friendly
4 colors
17.5 fluid ounce capacity
Lifetime promise
Sip it lid
Collapsible
Easy measuring
- BrandGSI Outdoors
- Model75253
- Weight4 ounces
15SUUNTO Core All Black Military Outdoor Sports Watch
True explorers, mountaineers, and hikers will love the SUUNTO Core All Black Military Outdoor Sports Watch which brings everything you could ever need from a watch and more. The digital display allows for fast, at-a-glance reading, but it’s the other features that really make it stand out.
This sports watch also boasts an altimeter and compass, while the sunrise and sunset readings ensure you will always know how much light you have left. Most useful though, particularly for those who love to trek through more unpredictable climates, is the storm alarm, which warns when it senses a sudden drop in pressure.
Digital display
Weather tracking
Altimeter, barometer, compass, and sunrise/sunset
Current elevation
Storm alarm
Stylish design
- BrandSUUNTO
- ModelSS014279010
- Weight1.44 ounces
16Katadyn Hiker Water Filter
Instead of resigning yourself to drinking dirty, bacteria-laden water when trekking through jungles and rainforests, it pays to invest in the Katadyn Hiker Water Filter to ensure you don’t chug down your whole clean water supply in one day.
It’s easy to use with a simple pump function and no backflushing and employs activated carbon to filter out harmful agents to prevent you from getting sick at the very worst time. This portable water filter cleans as much as 750 liters, giving you and your group a hassle-free solution to staying hydrated.
One size
Easy to use
0.2 micron glass fiber filter
Activated carbon
No need for constant backflushing
Carry bag
Cleans up to 200 gallons / 750 liters
Ultralight
Compatible with hydration bladders
- BrandKatadyn
- Model8018270
- Weight1.2 pounds
17Hydrosleeve Package
If you need fast access to water when on the move if your hands are occupied with trekking poles or your digital camera, the Hydrosleeve Package ensures hydration is just ahead lean away. The 2 sizes are enough to fit on your arm without slipping and it can hold 7.5 ounces of water.
With it, you get two anti-slosh bladders which prevent, well, sloshing, while the FDA approved silicone and BPA free materials ensure it’s safe to use. The Therma-cool insulator keeps your drink fresh throughout your excursion, whether it’s deep into the jungle or just a morning run around a brand new city full of potential.
2 colors
Small and Medium sizes
Therma-cool insulator
2 anti-slosh bladders
7.5 ounce capacity
FDA approved silicone
BPA free
Hands-free hydration
- BrandHydrosleeve
- ModelB07BQHHQ56
- Weight8 ounces
18GoPro HERO 7
Much like backpacks, Kindles, and your passport, the GoPro HERO 7 is an essential travel accessory to prove to all your friends you didn’t just sit on the computer trolling people online all summer long. This is a product that needs no introduction, and if you want to ensure your memories of your trip last forever, there is nothing better.
It’s a spectacular improvement on previous models, with HyperSmooth video and predictive movement to ensure crisp footage with 4K60 video. The voice commands are intuitive, and the Super Photo features ensure you’ll capture all your experiences with total ease. Another great addition is the live streaming feature, so if you see come across something that you feel everyone else needs to see, you can set that up to show the world just how much fun you’re having.
HyperSmooth video
Predictive movement
Super Photo
Voice commands
Rugged and waterproof
Live streaming
4K60 footage and 12MP photos
Time warp
8x slow motion
- BrandGoPro
- ModelCHDHX-701
- Weight4.2 ounces
Sources:
- 6 Reasons Backpacking Is Good For You - Nomads World
- What To Do When You Have A Travel Itch You Can’t Scratch - Lifehacker