Hey there, procrastinator. I see you.
(Let’s face it, most of the time I am you.)
You’ve put off gift shopping for the adventurer on your list a little too long, and now you’re desperate for last-minute gift ideas. Maybe you just couldn’t figure out what she needs, because she already has all the perfect gear. Or, maybe you procrastinated on shopping for everyone. Or, maybe you just forgot.
Either way, I’m here to help! I’ve gathered up my favorite last-minute gift ideas for hikers and nature-lovers - gifts that don’t require hefty expedited shipping upgrades, or any shipping at all, for that matter! These are also perfect for the adventure-lover in your life who’s just straight-up hard to buy for.
Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Hikers and Nature Lovers
Memberships
Hike It Baby: Is she a mom, or soon to be? Hike It Baby is an organization for trail meet-ups and challenges for parents and their babies and small children to hike (or stroll or jog) at various levels together. Hike It Baby memberships start at $10 per year.
AllTrails Pro: Does she enjoy seeking out new trails to tackle, or hike a lot when she travels? A subscription to AllTrails Pro allows for added functionality like downloadable maps and real-time GPS navigation via the AllTrails mobile app. A subscription to AllTrails Pro is $29.99 for a year.
The Sierra Club: Does she like her outdoor adventures with friends and a side of activism? Maybe the Sierra Club (founded by John Muir!) would be a good fit. Sierra Club memberships start at $15 per year.
National Parks
Annual Pass: Is she a National Parks fan? The America the Beautiful pass gets her in every US national park (and loads of other federal lands) for FREE for a whole year! Okay, so this one does have to ship, but you could print out the info page so she knows about the awesomeness that will soon land in her mailbox. Get the US National Parks pass here for $80.
Guidebooks: Check your local bookstore’s travel section for a national park guidebook - whether a general guide to all national parks (like this one, from National Geographic), or a book for the specific park she wants to visit. This would also be a great way to surprise her with plans for a trip!
Other Gift Ideas
Gift Cards: Yes, you could buy her a gift card to one of the big names, like REI or Patagonia, or you could support local and small businesses; if there’s a locally-owned gear store nearby, see if they have gift cards available, or do the same for online shops, like mine! Get a Dear Summit Supply Co. gift card here.
Local Adventures: While at your local bookstore, find their section of local books - I bet there’s a guidebook or two for trails, parks, and other outdoor adventures in your state or region. State park systems often have memberships available - for discounted entry or usage fees - which would also be a great gift option.
Training Experiences: Help her level-up her skills with courses from organizations like the National Outdoor Leadership School, whose two-day Wilderness First Aid courses are highly regarded, or the Leave No Trace Center, whose trainings on wilderness ethics set the gold standard for hikers, backpackers, and nature lovers worldwide.
What are you giving the adventurer on you list? What’s your favorite adventure-related gift you’ve received?
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