10 Affordable gifts for adventure lovers
It’s that time of year again: Gifting season.
With the holidays right around the corner, you’re most likely starting to think about gifts for friends, family, and loved ones. Whether you’re seeking a gift for your Secret Santa or a long-time adventure bud, check out this list of wallet-friendly gifts under $50 that are perfect for all types of adventurers.
1. Urban Native Era ‘You Are On Native Land’ Beanie – $24.99
Increasing Indigenous visibility through fashion, Urban Native Era is one of my favorite brands in the outdoor industry. I’m a huge fan of their ‘You Are On Native Land’ line which sends a necessary and intentional message to non-Indigenous communities. No matter if you’re the wearer or observer of this beanie, it’s sure to send an important message and ignite conversation around the phrase.
2. Adventurist Backpack Co. Nomad Sling Bag – $45
Every great adventure needs a great adventure bag to go along with it. This sling bag is perfect for outdoor-loving friends to carry all their travel essentials. The attached shoulder strap can be adjusted to wear cross-body in the front or back, or buckled around the wearer’s waist as a fanny pack. You’ll also give back when gifting these bags. For every Nomad Sling Bag purchased, the Adventurist Backpack Co. gives out 25 meals to families in need across the U.S.
3. She Explores Book – $12.99
Gifted to me last year for Christmas, I can’t recommend this book enough. Written by creative storyteller and female adventurer Gale Straub, She Explores shares the inspirational stories and photos of 40 diverse women who’ve journeyed, struggled, succeeded, and explored on their own terms in nature.
4. MicroSend Magnetic Route – $19.99
Have that one climbing friend who can’t get enough crag? Well, consider gifting them a mini magnetic climbing route that sticks to the fridge. This set of miniature handholds, quickdraws, and 90cm climbing rope can hold up photos, pin up notes, and serve as a mini reminder of the sport they love. Even better, part of the proceeds from sales of MicroSend directly supports Access Fund, a non-profit focused on rock climbing advocacy and conservation.
5. Travel Magazine Subscription – ~$40
Gift the gift of adventure inspiration. Whether your friend, family, or loved one is interested in diving into a new outdoor sport or constantly daydreaming about their next adventure, there’s a magazine out there that’s bound for their coffee table. Bonus: Outbound Collective Editor, Hatie Parmeter, recently put together a roundup of her favorite adventure and travel magazines.
6. Allmansright Harvest Collection Stuff Sack – $22
Who wouldn’t want an ultra-light sack shaped like a carrot to hold their tent stakes?! I love to recommend gifts and gear from Allmansright, an outdoor gear brand that makes ultra-light, fashion-forward gear out of a small studio in the Bronx. In addition to this limited edition stake stuff sack, the brand makes all kinds of outdoor accessories. Their name derives from the Swedish word and law, "allemansratt" which means "The Right to Public Access" or "Freedom to Roam.” Allmansright continually donates 2% of profits to diversify and advocate for the outdoors for all.
7. Swiftwick PURSUIT Two Socks – $18.99
Who doesn’t love a new pair of socks for Christmas? Swiftwick’s PURSUIT sock is my absolute favorite hiking (and every day) sock. It’s made out of merino wool, which helps keep moisture, odor, and blisters off your feet. I find these socks are snug without being too snug and have held up for several years with hardly any wear and tear, despite spending ample time on the trail. If you need a simple gift for a hiking lover, this is your pick.
8. MPOWERD Luci Color Lantern – $24.99
This present will light up the campsite (or backyard) in a whole spectrum of colors. The Luci color lantern has eight settings and a built-in solar panel for easy recharging in direct sunlight. It’s also super portable thanks to its inflatable design that packs down in seconds. I also love that MPOWERD is a steward of energy justice, working with over 700 NGOs and non-profits to provide clean energy to those who need it most.
9. Kula Cloth – ~$20
Who knew a pee cloth could be so handy for the backcountry? Kula’s antimicrobial pee cloths are perfect for that eco-conscious person in your life and who's a fan of peeing in the woods. They come in literally any and all designs you can think of (like this totally random creepy victorian cat Kula) and often partner with independent artists to feature their designs on Kulas throughout the year.
10. Donation to an Outdoor Non-Profit – You choose!
Consider gifting a donation instead of a material item this holiday season. For the eco-conscious, social justice-focused, or community-centered person in your life, giving a donation in their name is a great way to give back in a unique way that honors your loved one and the community you’re donating to. Some of my favorite outdoor non-profits include Chicago Adventure Therapy, the Venture Out Project, Native Women’s Wilderness, Diversify Outdoors, and Alliance for the Great Lakes.
Feature image by Thom Holmes.
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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