Let’s face it, choosing gifts can be daunting no matter the occasion. However, choosing a gift for a camper can be a fun and exciting process but it's important to keep in mind the individual's camping style and preferences.
A practical gift, such as a portable camping stove or a water filtration system, can be a great option for someone who enjoys cooking outdoors or exploring remote locations. Consider the camper's level of experience and the types of activities they enjoy when choosing a gift, as well as the environment in which they will be camping, such as the climate and terrain.
Ultimately, a thoughtful gift that caters to their interests and needs will make for a memorable and appreciated present. Here are some ideas for the best camping gifts of 2023 to get you ahead of the camping season.
Portable camping stove
The Coleman Classic Propane Stove is known for its durability, portability, and efficient cooking performance. It features a wind-resistant design, two adjustable burners, and a propane fuel source that makes it a reliable option for outdoor cooking. Additionally, its compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to pack and transport, making it a popular choice among campers and backpackers.
Highlight of features
- Two adjustable burners with a total cooking power of 20,000 BTUs
- Wind-blocking side panels to improve cooking performance in windy conditions
- Chrome-plated grates for easy cleaning and long-lasting durability
- Pressure control technology to ensure consistent performance in extreme temperatures
- Removable grease tray for easy cleaning
- A compact and lightweight design for easy transport and storage.
Pros
- Great option for families or groups.
- Adjustable burners to control the heat level for different cooking needs.
- Stove is easy to pack and transport.
Cons
- Runs on propane, which can be messy and requires the purchase of separate canisters.
- May not be suitable for very cold temperatures, as propane is difficult to ignite in low temperatures.
- Potential for leaks from the propane connection, which can be a safety concern.
- Can be expensive to fuel.
Portable water filtration system
Both practical and useful a portable water filtration system is a great option for a gift. It provides a convenient and effective way to access safe drinking water while in the wilderness without having to drag along bags of equipment. The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter uses advanced filtration technology to remove 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and parasites, making it a popular choice amongst campers.
Highlight of features
- Filters up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water down to 0.2 microns in size, removing 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria, and 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites.
- Lightweight and compact, weighs only 2 ounces and measures 9 inches long and 1 inch in diameter, making it easy to carry in a backpack, pocket, or glove compartment.
- No electrical power or batteries are needed.
Pros
- Durable and impact-resistant, with no moving parts, batteries, or chemicals required.
- Drink directly from natural water sources by simply putting the straw in the water and sucking.
- Comes with a sealed cap and detachable lanyard for easy attachment to a backpack or other gear.
- Eco-friendly by reducing the need for disposable plastic water bottles.
Cons
- Doesn’t remove chemical contaminants such as heavy metals or chemicals.
- Can take several minutes to filter a single liter of water.
- Difficult to clean the LifeStraw, which can become clogged with debris over time.
Solar-powered charging device
Having a solar-powered charging device eliminates the need to carry heavy and bulky backup batteries, and reduces the dependence on electrical generators, which can be noisy and emit fumes. Additionally, solar-powered charging devices are environmentally friendly and can help reduce the carbon footprint of camping trips. You don’t have to know much about camping to see the value of a solar-powered charging device. The Anker PowerPort Solar Lite 15W Solar Panel Charger is highly rated for being compact, portable, and easy to use, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and campers who need to keep their devices charged while they are away from traditional power sources.
Highlight of features
- 15W high-efficiency solar panel with SunPower solar cells to provide up to 23.5% efficiency in converting solar power into electrical energy.
- PowerIQ technology detects and delivers the optimal charging current to connected devices, providing fast charging speeds of up to 2.1 amps per port or 3 amps overall under direct sunlight.
- Foldable design, measures 11.1 x 6.3 inches folded and 26.4 x 11.1 inches unfolded, with stainless-steel eye-holes on each corner for easy attachment to backpacks, tents, or trees.
- Water-resistant design with industrial-strength PET polymer-faced solar panels that are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Pros
- Easy to carry around and store when not in use.
- Fast charging small devices quickly and efficiently, even in low light conditions.
- Compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices.
- Allows you to charge two devices at once.
Cons
- Relies on sunlight to charge, so it may not be as effective in cloudy or rainy weather conditions.
- 15W panels may not be able to charge larger devices, such as laptops, at a fast pace.
- Although affordable, the device may be more expensive than other portable solar panels on the market.
- Comes with a limited 18-month warranty, which may not provide enough coverage for long-term use.
Portable camping hammock
The ENO Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest Hammock is one of the most popular portable camping hammocks on Amazon, known for its versatility, portability, and comfort. Many campers appreciate the hammock's portability and ease of setup, making it a great option for taking with you when camping, backpacking, or just lounging in the backyard.
The hammock's durability and comfort are also frequently praised, with many finding it to be a comfortable and relaxing place to rest after a long day of outdoor activities.
Highlight of features
- Made from a breathable and quick-drying nylon material, which is comfortable and dries quickly after getting wet.
- Comes with aluminum wire gate carabiners and a nautical grade line for easy and secure setup.
- A maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds.
- Constructed with triple interlocking stitching and can withstand regular use, making it a long-lasting investment.
Pros
- Easy to carry with you on camping trips or outdoor adventures
- Comes with everything you need to hang the hammock, including ropes and carabiners
- Large size accommodates one person comfortably
- Affordable price compared to other camping hammocks on the market
Cons
- Can be difficult to set up for those who are new to using camping hammocks
- Not suitable for extremely cold temperatures or inclement weather
- May not be as comfortable for taller people or those who prefer more room to spread out
- Not suitable for two people to use at the same time, as it is designed for single occupancy only.
Insulated cooler
A gift everyone can enjoy! A well-insulated cooler will keep your food and drinks cold for longer periods. Also needs to be able to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor use. The YETI Tundra 65 is a great gift for a camper because of its top-notch insulation properties, ensuring that contents remain cold and fresh even in hot temperatures.
Highlight of feature:
- Tie-down points,
- Non-slip feet.
- Capacity: 65 quarts (61 liters).
- Insulation: Permafrost™ Insulation to keep contents cold.
- Vortex™ Drain System for easy draining
Pros
- Keeps food and drinks cold for several days.
- Has a non-stick, easy-to-clean interior that makes it simple to maintain.
- Large capacity
Cons
- Can be heavy, and can take up a lot of space in a camping setup.
- Doesn’t have a built-in drain plug, making it difficult to remove any melted ice.
- Doesn’t come with wheels, which can make it difficult to transport over rough terrain.
LED lantern
If your camper is a hiking and cave-exploring enthusiast an LED lantern is a thoughtful gift. It’s the perfect gadget to light the way to their next adventure. Opt for LED lights because they are much brighter and last longer than traditional lanterns and they don't consume a lot of battery power. The Etekcity LED Camping Lantern is a favorite, known for its versatility and high performance that is suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities.
Highlight of features
- Up to 50 hours of bright light
- Brightness: up to 140 lumens with multiple brightness settings.
- Beam distance: up to 30 meters.
- Waterproof.
Pros
- Batteries can be changed
- 360° Lighting Effect
Cons
- Powered by batteries thus is not rechargeable
- Some campers may find the headlamp to be a bit heavy for extended use.
- The battery pack in camping lantern can be bulky.
Camping chair
A camping chair is the ultimate relaxation gift for a camper because nothing beats watching the sunset over a lake with your favorite snacks. The KingCamp Heavy Duty Steel Folding Chair with Cooler Bag and Side Table brings some of the luxuries from home to the great outdoors. perfect choice for campfire comfort. This folding chair is popular among outdoor enthusiasts and campers due to its sturdy and durable construction.
Highlight of features
- Made with a heavy-duty steel frame and 600D Oxford fabric, which is durable and can support up to 330 lbs (150 kg).
- Cooler Bag with a capacity of 14 liters,
- Side Table which is foldable with a cup holder
- The chair folds up easily and comes with a carrying bag for convenient storage and transport.
Pros
- Keeps drinks and food cool for hours.
- Pockets have enough space for a book, snacks, or other items.
- Comfortable, convenient, and easy to carry.
Cons
- Can be bulky, some may not be very durable.
Swiss Army Knife
No camping gift list is complete without the presence of a multipurpose Swiss Army Knife. Both sentimental and practical this is an epic gift for the younger campers. Why not have it engraved to add a personalized touch?
Highlight of features
- The Spartan Pocket Knife has 12 functions, including a large and small blade, can opener, bottle opener, corkscrew, scissors, and more.
- Made with stainless steel and features a polished ABS handle that is both durable and comfortable to hold.
Pros
- Backed by a lifetime warranty against defects in material and workmanship.
- Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around in a pocket or attached to a keyring.
- Affordable compared to other Swiss Army knives
Cons
- Campers report difficulty sharpening the blade.
- Some of the smaller tools can be difficult to access due to their location on the knife.
Portable camping shower
Possibly the hardest part of any camping trip is the lack of restrooms. Some would argue this adds to the charm, while others lament the fact. Showering in the great outdoors is far from luxurious, lucky there is a way to make this experience a little more familiar.
A portable shower is an out-of-the-box gift you can consider for your camping mate. Consider the Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Camp Shower, which is one of the top-rated options.
Highlight of features
- Convenient for camping in areas without shower facilities, easy to use.
- The Helio Shower features a foot pump that allows you to pressurize the water for a strong, steady stream of water without the need for batteries or electricity.
- 2.9-gallon (11-liter) capacity, providing ample water for a full shower or multiple washes.
Pros
- Convenient for camping in areas without shower facilities, easy to use.
- Strong water pressure and ability to provide a full shower.
- Foot pump and twist nozzle are easy to use.
- The shower's compact design and carrying case make it easy to take on camping and backpacking trips.
- Able to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor use.
Cons
- Can be bulky and may not provide a hot shower.
- Expensive compared to other portable showers, which may not fit everyone's budget.
- Some customers found the shower to be heavy when filled, making it less convenient to transport.
- The 2.9-gallon (11-liter) water capacity may not be enough for some customers who require more water for longer showers or washing larger items.
Waterproof camping blanket
When in the great outdoor water can both be your best friend and worst enemy. Keeping things dry is essential and a waterproof camping blanket is an awesome campers gift. This blanket is designed to provide warmth and comfort during camping or outdoor activities while also being resistant to water and moisture. They can also be used as a makeshift shelter, tarp, or ground cover. The Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket is a fun choice with its beautiful designs.
Highlight of features
- Warm, versatile, and great for outdoor use.
- Available in 1-person, 2-person, or 4-person sizes
- Made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials
- Durable, water-resistant, and stain-resistant
- Lightweight and packable, making it easy to carry and store
- Insulated with synthetic down, providing warmth in a variety of weather conditions
- Machine washable for easy cleaning and maintenance
- Comes with a stuff sack for convenient storage and transport
Pros
- The softness and warmth of the Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket.
- The blanket is lightweight and easily packable.
- Machine washable and dries quickly, making it easy to clean and maintain.
- The design and colors are visually appealing and stylish.
- Blanket is durable and can withstand frequent use.
Cons
- May be considered expensive.
- Some campers experienced issues with the seams of the blanket coming apart after multiple washes or uses.
- Blankets may be too small to fully cover a larger individual or couple.
- Some experience crinkling noise when moving, which may be disruptive.
