Do you have someone on your list who frequently spends their time camping or backpacking? Or maybe you're creating a wish list as you patiently await a pickup notification for your newly built Escapod Topo. Whether new to camping or a seasoned outdoor pro, there's plenty of gear out there to choose from. Tried and tested, here are our favorite gifts and goods for time spent sleeping outside.
FOR THE NEWBIE
Camp basics are essential for an enjoyable outdoor experience. Some folks start with gear that was handed down to them, or purchased at a local big box store. If you're someone looking to build your camping kit, or you're wanting to give the gift you know they'll use, here are a few ideas that meet almost any budget.
REI Membership - $30
A lifetime membership to REI Co-Op provides a lifetime of benefits for any outdoor enthusiast. From camping to backpacking, fishing, biking, skiing and so much more, it's easy to spend hours in an REI store or browsing their website for gear. A $30 REI membership unlocks a ton of perks and benefits from the giant outdoor retailer including free standard shipping (restrictions may apply) on online orders, an annual dividend, special offers and discounts along with so much more. Give the gift that will keep on giving!
Black Diamond Spot 350 Headlamp
Ever wondered how to get from the campfire to your tent without tripping or getting lost? Or what happens when nature calls in the middle of the night? A headlamp will do the trick. When the sun begins to set, most pros have their headlamps hanging around their necks or stashed in their camp chair pocket before darkness settles in. The Black Diamond Spot 350 is a low profile headlamp that has a bunch of features packed into its small compartment. Plus with 350 lumens which is plenty of shine for late night activities.
GSI Santoku Knife Set
The injury that happens most in the outdoors are cuts. Don't mess around with a dull knife in the camp kitchen. Instead consider the GSI Outdoors Santoku Knife Set. It comes with 3 different knives, including a serrated blade, as well as a foldable cutting board, soap bottle and dish cloth. Throw a couple of utensils in the sleek zippered case and you've got about half your kitchen needs in one compact carryall.
Estwing E45A 26" Splitting Axe
A night spent outdoors wouldn't be complete without a roaring campfire. The Estwing 26" Splitting Axe is our go-to axe for beginners. Heck, we even take this thing out on our regular adventures. There's not much to say about an axe, but what we can share is that it's easy to use and works perfectly for splitting smaller logs, kindling and pre-bought wood. A camping necessity you don't want to leave out.
GSI Escape 3L Collapsible Pot & Pan
Although it may seem like a steep purchase, this pot and pan is built to last while taking up very little space in the overall "camp kitchen." GSI Outdoors Escape set includes a 3L collapsible pot perfect for boiling water, while the non stick 9 inch fry pan is a go-to for sautéing. In addition, it includes a lid that doubles as a strainer. Simple, reliable, compact.
Kelty Deluxe Lounge Chair
A fan favorite, Kelty knows campsite comfort and the Deluxe Lounge Chair is no exception. Some things we typically look for in a camp chair include ample arm chair storage, durability and of course comfort! With dual beverage holders, three reclining positions and adjustable arm rests, this chair is built for lounging.
THE SPLURGE! Exped Megamat
Ok, we know the price tag can be off-putting, but hear us out! One of the biggest challenges known to humankind when it comes to camping is sleeping outdoors. Primal in nature, we outdoor lovers have needs that sometimes go beyond a dirty tent floor. There are hundreds of options out there, and we've tried A LOT of them. Blow up mattress, cot, sleeping pad, sleeping systems. The Exped MegaMat delivers in a way that does not compare. It may be way over-the-top for minimalist car campers with its bulky size, but for those who don't want to compromise a good night's sleep this may be the solution. The self-inflating mattress provides the best of both worlds - air to keep you up off the group and foam for support (hello, side sleepers). Plus the durability of the exterior is virtually puncture proof. Trust us, the dogs have tried.
FOR THE PRO
They might think they have everything, but surprise them with something different that they'll actually use - every time. From camp cooking gadgets to comfort upgrades, give them something they will love.
Square Pie Iron (Pudgie Pie Maker)
A cheesy pizza sandwich, a gooey cinnamon role, a sweet and delicious hand pie. These are just a few recipe ideas for the Square Pie Iron. While we're not sure where the origin of the term Pudgie Pie came from, but what we can tell you is that this is one of the easiest camp meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner. This coupled with a few Pudgie Pie recipes from Taste of Home and you're a contender for "best gift giver" of the holiday season!
Luci Solar String Lights by MPOWERED
One of the best gifts we've ever received are the Luci Solar String Lights by MPOWERED. With a generous 18 ft. length nylon cord, the lights feature 3 different brightness settings and a built in rechargeable battery. The best part is, they're solar! We use these lights at EVERY SINGLE campsite and have lots of fun stringing them on trees, around our awning or using them as a photo prop.
The North Face Thermoball Traction Booties
Another item we don't leave home without (no seriously, we take these everywhere) are our Thermoball Traction Booties from The North Face. At this point we could probably dedicate an entire closet to these slippers, we have pairs for the house, we have pairs for Podzilla. Needless to say, we're big fans. They're toasty warm, comfortable, convertible and have a durable sole for outdoor use. Plus, they come out with new colors and patterns each season!
Hest Camp Pillow
Camp comfort is taken up a notch when migrating from inflatable pillows to a standard bed pillows. Although it took up coveted space in our cars, we felt it's sometimes worth it. If this sounds like you (or someone you know) check out the Hest Camp Pillow. Combining the best of both worlds, Hest brings "memory foam comfort in a compact, portable adventure-ready package that packs into itself to protect the sleeping surface during travel." It's definitely a higher price point, but sometimes beauty sleep cannot be compromised.
Rumpl Blanket
Whether heading out for a fall drive or cozying up to the campfire, a Rumpl Blanket is generally within arms reach. With a variety of stylish designs and sizes, These weather-proof all-season blankets are perfect for any type of adventurer. Pro tip for Escapod owners, the 2-Person Sherpa Puffy makes an ideal comforter for the Topo 1 and Topo 2!
Thermarest Honcho Poncho
While we did just notice Rumpl's new poncho in collaboration with Carhartt, the Thermarest Honcho Poncho has been around for years and might have even been first on the scene with a puffy poncho. The poncho is essential a wearable puffy blanket, which means it's comfortable, durable and packable.
THE SPLURGE! Jackery 240 Portable Power Station
Power can be a challenge when camping, especially in dispersed areas without access to electricity. While we prefer a more primitive style of camping, we like keeping our devices charged and ready. That's where the Jackery 240 Portable Power Station comes in. The Jackery has multifunctional outputs perfect for keeping our camera, GoPros, phones and other devices charged at once. This product is especially great for longer road-trips or those working while on the road. Bonus tip, pair with the SolarSaga 100W for a complete off-grid solution.
Regardless of the gear, the most valuable part of the outdoor experience is actually being outdoors. A chance to connect with our natural environment and explore the beauty of our surroundings. Perhaps the greatest gift of all is experiencing it with the ones we love.
Love the great ideas!