The 30 Best Gifts for Outdoorsmen Who Love Rugged Adventures

Gift buying for those who love rugged adventures doesn’t have to be stressful. We’ve got you covered with a helpful list of the best gifts for the outdoorsmen in your life!

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Outdoor adventures are the lifeblood of die-hard outdoorsmen, so much so that many of them actively find ways to use their outdoor gear in everyday life. There’s no such thing as too much gear for an outdoor enthusiast—just more options to choose from!

If you need to buy a gift for an outdoorsman in your life, there are tons of items to pick from, from reliable and sturdy basics to the latest tech. Choose from tackle boxes, utility knives, inflatable kayaks, compact grills, lanterns, mess kits, and more. Throughout the year, you’ll find access to great deals from all the major retailers to help you find perfect gifts for outdoorsmen that fit your budget. To make it easier, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of popular outdoorsmen gifts to consider.

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The Best Gifts for Outdoorsmen

Whether it’s fishing, camping, grilling, or backpacking (and more!), you’ll find gifts for outdoorsmen of all kinds in this list.

Gifts Under $50

For the Pyro Obsessed

Light my Fire Kindling Wood Sticks

 Light my Fire Kindling Wood Sticks
Photo: Amazon.com

A catchy name and a catchy product for hikers, backpackers, campers, and hunters. Wet or dry, this chemical-free tinder is designed to catch fire and burn hot to get a fire going quickly. Shave off a few tinders, then strike a light using flint and steel or a match and enjoy a roaring fire in minutes. Your outdoorsman will probably be intrigued at how effective this resin fire starter is and brag to all his friends about how easily he can start a fire anywhere. That might even include the charcoal grill in the backyard!

$9.19 on Amazon.

Handy Tool

TAC9ER 22-in-1 Wallet Multitool

 The Best Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: TAC9ER 22-in-1 Wallet Multitool
Photo: amazon.com

PROMOTED PICK

An outdoorsman is prepared for anything—and with this multi-tool that packs 22 functions into one tool, there’s nothing he can’t face. This multi-tool is the size of a credit card so it’ll fit perfectly into a wallet, meaning that your favorite outdoorsman can have it with him wherever he goes. The size and price point make this tool a great stocking stuffer or gift add-on.

$9.99 on Amazon.

Coffee Mug Upgrade

Horizon 12 oz Camp Mug – Insulated Stainless Steel

 Horizon 12 oz Camp Mug - Insulated Stainless Steel
Photo: Amazon.com

When it’s time for a warm drink, a standard coffee cup just doesn’t do the trick on a cold morning in the woods. This camp mug is made especially with campers in mind. It’s vacuum insulated to keep any liquid hot and has a tri-mode lid that slides open and controls the flow. Sliding it shut will keep it from spilling. Even if he’s wearing gloves, the handle is wide enough to hold this mug. Best of all, when he brings it home, he can toss it in the dishwasher instead of cleaning it by hand.

$17.99 on Amazon.

Portable Pack

CREATOR Tactical Waist Pack Portable Fanny Pack

 CREATOR Tactical Waist Pack Portable Fanny Pack
Photo: Amazon.com

Hikers, bikers, hunters, and fishers can benefit from the CREATOR Tactical Waist Pack Portable Fanny Pack, which is compact enough to carry just about anywhere to perform a wide range of outdoor activities. This fanny pack is made of lightweight, durable nylon so as not to weigh down its user. It has extra pockets for keys, phones, or other important items that need to be stowed away while enduring the elements. The bag’s adjustable, detachable strap can fit multiple waist sizes for a comfortable fit that doesn’t detract from the activity at hand.

$19.89 on Amazon.

Oversized Protection

Don't Die In The Woods – Freakin’ Huge Emergency Blan

 Don't Die In The Woods - Freakin’ Huge Emergency Blankets
Photo: Amazon.com

Like its title suggests, the Don’t Die In The Woods Freakin’ Huge Emergency Blankets provide full-body protection that can even be converted into an emergency shelter. At 7 feet by 5 feet, this massive blanket is waterproof and reflects up to 90 percent of a person’s body heat, thanks to its NASA-designed mylar construction. The blanket helps prevent hypothermia and can keep bodies safe from cold, wet, or hot survival situations. It’s a must-have gift option for survivalists or people who spend ample time hiking or camping in secluded locations.

$24.95 on Amazon.

Quality Tee

540Brands Outdoor Life Fraternity of The Obsessed Tee

 540Brands Outdoor Life Fraternity of The Obsessed Tee
Photo: Amazon.com

Sometimes an iconic T-shirt is the best way to go for a gift. If your outdoorsman likes to fish, then this T-shirt is one to consider. A hooked fish and wave are encircled by the text “Outdoor Life Join the Fraternity of the Obsessed,” which makes for great conversation with friends. The short-sleeve T-shirt is made of 100 percent soft cotton with five colors available to suit his preference.

$24.99 on Amazon.

Surprising Ingenuity

Gerber ComplEAT, Camp Cooking Tool

 Gerber ComplEAT, Camp Cooking Tool
Photo: Amazon.com

Upgrade a boring set of camping utensils with this set of utensils and a multipurpose cooking tool. The burnt bronze color and stamped design are a rugged choice for someone who loves unique-looking items. As it weighs barely 2.5 ounces, he’ll appreciate that he has a fork, spoon, dual-sided spatula, and four-function cooking tool that won’t weigh him down on his trek. Wish this set had some tongs? Problem solved: Attach the spatula and fork together using the molded snap design to make tongs. Now that’s ingenious.

$26 on Amazon.

Handy Tool on-the-Go

LEATHERMAN, Micra Keychain Multitool

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: LEATHERMAN, Micra Keychain Multitool
Photo: amazon.com

A keychain multi-tool is one of the handiest gifts for just about anyone. Anglers, hobbyists, campers, and more love the convenience of having a small knife, scissors, screwdriver, or tweezers close at hand. Loose screws, jammed items, and splinters won’t stand a chance against the power of this reliable Leatherman mini multi-tool. Use the ring to attach it to his keychain, or store it in a tackle box, day pack, or car console.

$29.95 on Amazon.  

Illumination on Demand

Streamlight 44931 Siege Compact Cordless Lantern

 The Best Garden Decor Option: Streamlight 44931 Siege Lantern
Photo: amazon.com

An outdoorsman is no exception to needing a little extra light at night. This cordless lantern is the perfect solution to seeing where he stashed his extra socks, finding his way to the bathroom, or even seeing during a power outage at home. The white or red LED light is powered by three D batteries (sold separately) and produces 55 to 540 lumens to perfectly illuminate a small area like inside a tent. Eliminate the hassle of holding a flashlight with a targeted beam of light, and experience the convenience of stable, ambient light. It’s the perfect lantern to stash in his camping gear. $34.95 on Amazon.

Read More: Best Camping Lantern

Excellent Defense

Thermacell Backpacker Mosquito Repeller

 Thermacell Backpacker Mosquito Repeller
Photo: Amazon.com

You can help the outdoorsman in your life keep bites at bay with the Thermacell Backpacker Mosquito Repeller. This heat-activated canister creates a 15-foot zone that protects campers, hikers, hunters, and other outdoor enthusiasts from being bitten by the pesky bugs. It is scent-free and requires no cords or batteries, just a camping fuel canister for maximum effectiveness. The repeller comes with four unscented repellent mats that last up to 4 hours apiece and change color when it’s time for a refill.

$36.04 on Amazon.

Top Rod for Reeling

Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Fishing Rod

 Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Fishing Rod
Photo: Amazon.com

After you grab the tackle box, check out this fishing rod. The iconic Ugly Stik fishing rod has been upgraded with this GX2 model crafted of graphite and fiberglass. Now it’s lighter and more balanced for a perfect cast every time without sacrificing durability or strength. We like the Clear Tip that responds to even the smallest nibbles to alert you to your next catch. Whatever line he most prefers to use, even braided, this rod can handle it. He’ll reel in his next lake trout with ease using this spinning fishing rod. Starting at $39.95 on Amazon.

Read More: Best Fishing Rod

Razor-Sharp Reliability

Outdoor Life Fixed Blade Knife

 The Fishing Gifts Option: Outdoor Life Fixed Blade Knife
Photo: amazon.com

Every outdoorsman needs a quality knife. The satin finish stainless steel on this fixed blade knife is crafted for ultimate hardness and corrosion resistance. With a full tang design, this knife is capable of withstanding the force exerted on any cutting job without breaking. This knife can slice through meat, rope, or other materials with ease thanks to the razor-sharp blade built into a comfortable orange and green grip. Don’t be surprised if he finds himself looking for extra ways to use this knife in everyday situations!

$41.99 on Amazon.

Lumberjack Envy

Nordic Pocket Saw Survival Chainsaw

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Nordic Pocket Saw Survival Chainsaw
Photo: amazon.com

Great for regular use or for emergencies only, the Nordic Pocket Saw Survival Chainsaw makes a handy gift. Carrying a hatchet can be bulky, so any outdoorsman will love the convenience of a pocket-size tree-cutting machine that runs on raw manpower. The 33 high-carbon steel teeth can shred through a downed branch or make firewood from deadwood in surprising time. Pulling back and forth with the nylon straps will feel primal, as though he’s cutting through the wood with his bare hands. Don’t be surprised if he tests its strength and finds it can withstand 20 times the power he can exert on it.

$49 on Amazon.

Gifts Under $100

Versatile Cookware

Bulin Camping Cookware Mess Kit

 The Best Gifts for Campers Option: Bulin Camping Cookware Mess Kit
Photo: amazon.com

Gone are the caveman days of eating off a piece of bark, not to mention the old tin mess kits that burned your fingers at the slightest touch. This mess kit is made from hard-anodized aluminum with a nonstick finish to make cooking, eating, and cleaning in the great outdoors much easier. Even better, the handles are heat resistant to prevent burned fingertips. You can use this cookware on an open fire, butane stove, or any other heating method you prefer. The 13-piece set is great for two to four people and includes two pots with lids, one frying pan, one kettle, four bowls, two plates, one soup spoon, one rice ladle, and one cleaning sponge. $54.99 on Amazon.

Read More: Best Camping Cookware

Storage Galore

Plano 4-Drawer Tackle Box

 The Fishing Gifts Option: Plano 4-Drawer Tackle Box
Photo: amazon.com

Has your fisherman been holding on to the tackle box he got as a teenager or complaining about it being too small? The solution could be this four-drawer tackle box that has a spacious amount of storage for flies, hooks, bobbers, and sinkers. There’s room for pliers and hook removers in the drawers or under the lid, too. Simply adjust the dividers on the top storage space to make room for any tools. With this tackle box, he’ll never be without the fishing accessories he needs on the lake. $58.96 on Amazon.

Read More: Best Tackle Box Options

Always Prepared

LEATHERMAN Wingman Multitool

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: LEATHERMAN Wingman Multitool
Photo: amazon.com

The Leatherman multi-tool is a classic, and with good reason: It delivers. It’s designed and assembled with premium materials, so this multi-tool will last for years to come. It’s equipped with 14 tools in one so an outdoorsman can face any challenge that comes his way. It even has a one-hand opening for the easiest operation yet (plus, it comes with a locking mechanism for extra safety). The lightweight, compact design means that you’ll never have to be without this tool.

$59.95 on Amazon.

Clean and Clear Water

Survivor Filter Pro – Hand Pump Camping Water Filter

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Survivor Filter Pro - Hand Pump Camping Water Filter
Photo: amazon.com

Packing enough water for more than 1 day isn’t always feasible for backpackers who travel light. Drinking clean water is a priority when wandering backwoods nature trails. This water filter can help a backpacking enthusiast drink clean water from any water source, even if it’s clearly polluted. Bacteria, viruses, parasites, and heavy metals are all removed during the filtration process that removes molecules as small as 0.2 microns. Even better, it produces up to 17 ounces of clean water per minute—faster than other options. It’s so great you might even want to grab one for emergency use at home.

$65 on Amazon.

Tried-and-True Comfort

Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair

 The Best Camping Chair Option:
Photo: amazon.com

Outdoorsmen want a comfortable place to sit at the end of a long day. Enter the King Kong camping chair. It has the same foldable design expected of a portable camping chair, but it’s durable. Cupholders on both armrests make keeping a drink handy easy. The carrying case and shoulder strap make it easy to sling over the shoulder and go. $71.14 on Amazon.

Read More: Best Camping Chair

Warm and Waterproof

Eddie Bauer Cirruslite Down Jacket

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Eddie Bauer Cirruslite Down Jacket
Photo: amazon.com

This waterproof, wind-proof, and warm jacket is just the thing to keep an outdoorsman warm when the weather is less than perfect. The jacket has a universal fit so it’s sure to be comfortable on all body types, and the high neckline will keep out any wind. The responsibly sourced down will maintain plenty of warmth, but it’s lightweight enough to carry around in a pack or tie around the waist if the day heats up.

$74.25 on Amazon.

Cozy Night’S Sleep

Easthills Outdoors Jungle Explorer Camping Hammock

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Easthills Outdoors Jungle Explorer Camping Hammock
Photo: amazon.com

Sleeping in a hammock is the ultimate luxury for backpackers. Camping hammocks weigh mere ounces compared to their backyard counterparts. This hammock is no exception: It weighs only 36 ounces yet holds up to 700 pounds. Everything needed is included with this hammock, from tree straps to guy lines to aluminum stakes. Even a mosquito net is included to keep out critters of any size. Enjoy the roominess on your own or share the hammock, since it’s large enough to hold two people. Overnight backpacking is more pleasant with a restful night’s sleep, weightlessly swinging in the trees. $79.99 pn Amazon.

Read More: Best Camping Hammocks

Coffee on the Go

WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker

 The Best Gifts for Coffee Lovers Option: WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker
Photo: amazon.com

Don’t let your favorite outdoorsman suffer with poor-quality coffee: This Nanopresso portable espresso maker will let your outdoorsman have cafe-quality coffee anywhere. He can achieve a full-bodied shot of espresso with a rich crema without a bulky machine; all that’s needed is hot water, ground espresso, and a cup. The included protective case allows him to take this anywhere with no worries. Plus, it’s easy to clean, so there’s no need to waste time scrubbing it when there’s so much of the outdoors to experience.

$84.90 on Amazon.

Camp in Comfort

The North Face Wasatch Sleeping Bag

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: The North Face Wasatch Sleeping Bag
Photo: amazon.com

For temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, this Wasatch sleeping bag from The North Face is the perfect choice. The specialized insulation and water-repellent exterior ensure a cozy and warm night’s sleep. The full-length zip and hood keep out the cold, and the quality construction will make this sleeping bag last. And the insulation is made from 50 percent post-consumer waste, so you can feel good about this purchase and know that you’re helping the planet.

$89.95 on Amazon.

Gifts Under $250

Convenient Grill-and-Go

Cuisinart CGG180 Petit Gourmet Gas Grill

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Cuisinart CGG180 Petit Gourmet Gas Grill
Photo: amazon.com

Every outdoor adventure doesn’t have to be a wilderness backpack excursion. For those trips that allow for extra comforts and luxuries, this petite gas grill will make dinnertime easier than cooking over an open fire. Even a big appetite is satisfied with this grill that holds up to eight burgers at once. When it’s time to pack up, just fold the legs up and under the grill, then carry this 17-pound grill right to the car. As a bonus, it works great for tailgate parties too!

$132.32 on Amazon.

Customer Favorite

Suunto Traverse

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Suunto Traverse
Photo: amazon.com

This sport watch goes beyond telling time and date with the integration of GPS and GLONASS navigation systems. Hunters and hikers will love being able to quickly retrace their steps and drop pinpoints along their route with this watch. Altitude, barometric pressure, and distance are just a few metrics that are tracked with this watch that’s made specifically for outdoor enthusiasts.

$239.99 on Amazon.

Gifts $250 and Over

Rugged Comfort Footwear

Danner Men’s Quarry USA 8-Inch BR Work Boot

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Danner Men’s Quarry USA 8-Inch BR Work Boot
Photo: amazon.com

This Danner Quarry work boot is an over-the-ankle boot made from 100 percent leather. Whether working in sun, dirt, rain, mud, or gravel, these waterproof boots can withstand it all. The wearer will get all the support needed without sacrificing comfort, thanks to the Ortholite footbed and cushioned upper collar.

$262.41 on Amazon.

Extra-Tough Cooler

YETI Hopper M30 Portable Soft Cooler

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: YETI Hopper M30 Portable Soft Cooler
Photo: amazon.com

For cold drinks or food on the trail or out on the water, look no further than this Yeti portable soft cooler. This cooler delivers on many customers’ requests for a wider, easier opening. This soft cooler opens wider than others on the market and replaces a zipper closure with magnets, so it’s easy to get in and out of the bag without compromising the bag’s ability to keep things cold. The leak-proof liner and durable construction make this cooler perfect for all guys on the go.

$299.98 on Amazon.

Ultimate Survival Tool

Garmin InReach Mini, Compact Satellite Communicator

 The Best Gifts for Hikers Option: Garmin InReach Mini, Compact Satellite Communicator
Photo: amazon.com

Wilderness trekkers, backpackers, backcountry skiers, and hunters might just love having a reliable way to communicate in case of an emergency. Garmin is a top brand for GPS units, and this communicator boasts 100 percent global Iridium network coverage with a subscription. When his cell phone drops the signal, he can use this device to text, check locations on a variety of maps, or receive weather alerts. While he’d prefer to never have to use it, the SOS function immediately alerts the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center in case of trouble. Sometimes a little peace of mind comes in small packages.

$299.99 on Amazon.

Magnified Vision

Maven C1 10X42 mm ED Binocular Gray/Orange

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Maven C1 10X42 mm ED Binocular Gray/Orange
Photo: amazon.com

A powerful set of binoculars can come in handy for bird-watchers, hunters, or hikers. Spotting elusive elk or other wildlife from a distance can be thrilling for nature lovers. These binoculars have extra-low dispersion glass and multicoated lenses to see crystal clear, high-contrast images at up to 10 times magnification. Though they are powerful, they are also small and lightweight, so stowing them in a pack is easy. Of course, bird-watchers likely prefer to use the neck strap so they’re close at hand.

$350 on Amazon.

Take Photos Anywhere

Nikon W300 Waterproof Underwater Digital Camera

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Nikon W300 Waterproof Underwater Digital Camera
Photo: Amazon.com

Whether your outdoorsman just wants to take photos on the kayak without worry or become an underwater photographer, this Nikon underwater camera is the perfect option. It’s just the camera for adventuring as it’s waterproof, freeze-proof, and shock-proof. Take stunning high-res photos, 4K video, or time-lapse videos anywhere. This camera even comes equipped with telephoto power so he can get incredible up-close photos without any blur or distortion.

$386.95 on Amazon.

Quick Setup Kayak

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series

 The Gifts for Outdoorsmen Option: Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series
Photo: amazon.com

Hardshell kayaks are for rentals and occasional kayakers, but a regular kayaker will appreciate the convenience of this inflatable pro series kayak. It’s lightweight, UV fade resistant, and resists scratches and abrasions, meaning it’s about as tough as they come. Inflating and deflating this kayak is a cinch thanks to the high-pressure, spring-loaded valves. Even anglers will love this kayak since it includes space for two recessed fishing rod holders.

$416.60 on Amazon.

How to Choose the Best Gifts for Outdoorsmen

While some gifts, like multi-tools or utility knives, will appeal to almost any outdoor enthusiast, it can help to ask some more pointed questions to figure out the best gift for the outdoorsman in your life.

  • What does he spend his time doing outdoors? While a waterproof jacket could come in handy for anyone, an underwater camera probably wouldn’t be the best idea if he’s never gone near a body of water on one of his excursions.
  • Is he outdoors all year long or only during good weather? A down jacket won’t be necessary if your outdoorsman only likes to venture out when the weather is temperate.
  • Does he venture out on his own, or does he prefer going with a group? A large cooler bag may not be necessary for a solo outdoorsman, but it could be an invaluable gift for someone who treks with others.

How to Get Deals on the Best Gifts for Outdoorsmen

Choosing gifts for outdoorsmen can be overwhelming with the many options available. Some gear crosses over between activities: For instance, a knife is handy for campers and hunters alike. Survivalists will appreciate out-of-the-box ideas to add to their collection of useful equipment. Backpackers tend to be most interested in items that make their adventures easier or more enjoyable—without adding extra weight.

While you scour the internet for the best gifts for outdoorsmen, be sure to use a helpful extension like Honey to check for available discounts or best prices at online retailers. If you use Walmart’s app, the Savings Catcher will automatically match the price for you. Planning ahead for a birthday gift can also save money. It also removes the stress of worrying if the gift will arrive in time! No matter how you shop, deals and discounts can be found to help you stick to your budget while finding the right gift.

Prices listed here were accurate at the time of publication on 6/30/2021.

Brie Greenhalgh

Contributing Writer and Editor

Brie Greenhalgh has been a writer and editor for BobVila.com since 2019, where she shares advice about home improvement solutions, service and renovation costs, and top home products. Additionally, Brie writes for and manages a team of writers at The Tour Guy, where she fills her travel plans with new places to explore, stay, and eat around the world. Brie Is also the founder of The Editing Academy, which empowers aspiring professionals with the necessary skills to become proofreaders and copy editors.

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