Unique Gifts For Backpackers | 26 Adventurous Travel Presents

Published: September 11, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Esme Koster

Travel Gear

When it comes to travel essentials, having the right gear can make all the difference. From durable luggage to versatile accessories, here are some unique travel gifts for backpackers:

Travel Backpack: A high-quality travel backpack is a must-have for any backpacker. Look for features like adjustable straps, multiple compartments, and a comfortable back panel for long hours of use.
Packing Cubes: These handy organizers keep clothes and other items neatly packed and compressed. They make it easy to find what you need without having to rummage through your entire bag.
Travel Pillow: Help your backpacking friends sleep comfortably on long journeys with a compact and supportive travel pillow. Look for pillows that can be easily compressed or inflated for convenience.
Travel Adapter: A universal travel adapter is essential for staying connected while traveling internationally. Make sure it is compatible with various outlets and has multiple USB ports to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Portable Laundry System: For backpackers who prefer to pack light, a portable laundry system can be a game-changer. This compact device allows travelers to wash their clothes easily and efficiently on the go.
Travel Towel: A lightweight and quick-drying travel towel is a must-have for backpackers. Look for towels made of microfiber material that can absorb moisture effectively and dry quickly between uses.

No matter where your backpacking friends are heading, these travel gear essentials will help them stay organized, comfortable, and prepared for any adventure.

Camping Essentials

For backpackers who love to camp in the great outdoors, here are some essential gifts that will enhance their camping experience:

Tent: A high-quality and durable tent is a must-have for any camping trip. Look for a tent that is easy to set up, lightweight, and provides ample space for sleeping and storing gear.
Sleeping Bag: Keep your backpacking friends warm and cozy with a high-quality sleeping bag. Look for one that is suitable for the climate they will be camping in, with insulation and temperature ratings that match their needs.
Camping Stove: Help them cook delicious meals in the wilderness with a compact and lightweight camping stove. Look for one that is easy to use, portable, and fuel-efficient.
Campfire Cooking Tools: Upgrade their campfire cooking experience with tools like a portable grill, cooking utensils, and a camping kettle. These tools will allow them to cook a variety of meals and enjoy hot beverages in nature.
Camping Lantern: Ensure they have adequate lighting at their campsite with a reliable camping lantern. Look for one that is compact, lightweight, and has adjustable brightness settings.
Hammock: Give them the gift of relaxation with a lightweight camping hammock. This versatile piece of gear allows them to lounge comfortably and sleep under the stars.

These camping essentials will make every outdoor adventure more enjoyable and memorable for your backpacking friends.

Outdoor Cooking

For backpacking enthusiasts who love to cook and enjoy delicious meals in the great outdoors, here are some unique gifts that will enhance their outdoor cooking experience:

Campfire Grill: Upgrade their campfire cooking game with a portable campfire grill. This allows them to grill meats, vegetables, and more over an open flame, adding an extra level of flavor to their meals.
Cooking Utensils: A set of compact and durable cooking utensils is essential for outdoor cooking. Look for utensils made of lightweight materials and that come with a convenient carrying case for easy storage and transport.
Collapsible Cookware: Space-saving and lightweight collapsible cookware is perfect for backpackers. Look for pots, pans, and bowls that can be easily collapsed or nested together to save space in their backpack.
Portable Coffee Maker: For coffee-loving backpackers, a portable coffee maker is a fantastic gift. There are various options available, including ones that use a pressurized system or are manual pour-over style.
Camp Kitchen Organizer: Help them stay organized at their campsite with a portable camp kitchen organizer. This convenient storage solution keeps cooking utensils, spices, and other essentials neatly organized and easily accessible.
Campfire Roasting Sticks: A fun and practical gift for cooking over a campfire, roasting sticks are great for making marshmallows, hot dogs, and other tasty treats. Look for telescopic roasting sticks that are easy to store and extend for safe cooking.

These outdoor cooking gifts will inspire your backpacking friends to whip up delicious meals and enjoy quality cuisine no matter where they are in the wilderness.

Navigation and Safety

When exploring new territories, backpackers rely on navigation and safety gear to ensure they stay on track and remain secure. Here are some essential gifts for navigation and safety:

Hiking GPS: Equip your backpacking friends with a reliable hiking GPS device. This will help them navigate trails, mark waypoints, and track their progress. Look for a device that is durable, waterproof, and has long battery life.
Compact Emergency Kit: Safety should always be a priority. Give them a compact emergency kit that includes essential items like a first aid kit, whistle, compass, emergency blanket, and multi-tool. Encourage them to always have it on hand.
Headlamp: A hands-free lighting solution is essential for nighttime hikes and camping. Gift them a powerful and lightweight headlamp that offers adjustable brightness and a long battery life. Ensure it is comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): For serious adventurers, a PLB can be a lifesaver. These devices allow backpackers to send distress signals to emergency services when they are in remote locations with no cell reception.
Water Filtration System: Clean and safe drinking water is crucial while backpacking. Provide them with a reliable water filtration system that can remove bacteria and impurities, allowing them to drink from rivers and streams.
Trekking Poles: Help them maintain stability and reduce strain on their joints during challenging hikes with lightweight and adjustable trekking poles. These will improve balance and provide extra support on uneven terrain.

By gifting them these navigation and safety essentials, you’ll ensure that your backpacking friends are well-prepared and protected on their outdoor adventures.

Backpack Accessories

To further enhance the functionality and organization of their backpacks, consider gifting your backpacking friends some useful backpack accessories:

Compression Sacks: Help them pack more efficiently by providing compression sacks. These sacks allow them to compress clothing and other items, maximizing space in their backpacks.
Hydration Bladder: Keep them hydrated on the go with a hydration bladder. These reservoirs fit inside backpacks and allow for easy sipping through the attached drinking tube, ensuring they stay hydrated during their adventures.
Backpack Rain Cover: Protect their backpacks and gear from rain showers with a waterproof rain cover. Look for one that is lightweight, easy to attach, and fits their specific backpack size.
Locks and Security: Help them keep their belongings safe while traveling by gifting them sturdy locks. Combination locks or TSA-approved locks are great options for securing their backpacks and other travel gear.
Backpack Rain Cover: Keep their backpacks and gear protected with a waterproof rain cover. Look for one that is lightweight, easy to attach, and fits their specific backpack size.
Universal Bag Rain Cover: Besides protecting their backpack, a universal bag rain cover can also protect their daypack or other smaller bags from getting wet during unexpected rain showers.
Carabiners: These versatile clips are handy for attaching items to backpacks and securing gear. Look for durable carabiners that can withstand outdoor conditions and have a locking mechanism for added security.

These backpack accessories are practical additions that will enhance the functionality and convenience of their backpacking journeys.

Travel-inspired Accessories

For backpackers who have a passion for travel, consider gifting them travel-inspired accessories that will remind them of their adventures:

Travel-themed Jewelry: Enchant them with travel-themed jewelry, such as a necklace with a compass pendant, a bracelet adorned with map charms, or earrings inspired by landmarks from around the world.
World Map Poster: Help them decorate their space with a large world map poster. This visual reminder of their travel dreams and past adventures will inspire them to keep exploring.
Passport Cover: Protect their most important travel document with a stylish and personalized passport cover. Look for one that has slots for cards and a pocket for holding boarding passes.
Travel Journal: Encourage them to document their journey with a beautiful travel journal. This thoughtful gift will give them a space to write down memories, jot down thoughts, and preserve their travel experiences for years to come.
Travel-themed Phone Case: Help them showcase their love for travel with a phone case featuring travel-inspired designs, maps, or iconic landmarks.
Travel-inspired Wall Art: Brighten up their living space with travel-inspired wall art. Look for prints or paintings depicting breathtaking landscapes, city skylines, or famous landmarks.

These travel-inspired accessories are not only stylish but also serve as constant reminders of the joy and wanderlust that travel brings.

Travel Organization

Staying organized while traveling is essential for a smooth and stress-free journey. Consider gifting your backpacking friends travel organization essentials to help them keep their belongings in order:

Packing Cubes: Help them maximize space and stay organized with packing cubes. These zippered fabric containers divide their clothes and accessories, keeping everything neat and easily accessible.
Toiletry Bag: A compact and durable toiletry bag will keep their hygiene essentials organized and prevent leaks or spills from ruining their belongings. Look for a toiletry bag with multiple compartments and a hook for easy hanging.
Travel Wallet: Keep their travel documents, cards, and cash organized with a travel wallet. Look for one that has dedicated compartments for passports, cards, and currency, as well as RFID-blocking technology to protect against identity theft.
Cable Organizer: Help them keep their cables and electronic accessories tangle-free with a cable organizer. This handy accessory will prevent them from rummaging through their bag to find tangled cords.
Travel Toiletry Bottles: Ensure they travel light and comply with liquid restrictions by gifting them a set of travel-sized toiletry bottles. Look for leak-proof and TSA-approved bottles that are easy to refill.
Travel Laundry Bag: Keep their clean and dirty clothes separated with a travel laundry bag. Look for a lightweight and durable bag that can be easily folded and packed in their backpack.

With these travel organization essentials, your backpacking friends will have an easier time keeping their belongings tidy and within reach throughout their journeys.

Adventure Photography

For backpackers who love to capture their adventures through photography, consider gifting them accessories that will enhance their photographic skills and help them capture stunning shots:

Camera Strap: Upgrade their camera strap to a comfortable and durable one. Look for straps that provide extra support and have quick-release mechanisms for convenience.
Compact Travel Tripod: Help them capture stable and sharp images with a lightweight and compact travel tripod. Look for one that is sturdy, yet easy to carry in their backpack.
Lens Filters: Enhance their photography with various lens filters. Filters like polarizers, neutral density, and graduated filters can add drama and enhance colors in their photos.
Camera Cleaning Kit: Keeping their camera and lenses clean is essential for producing clear and sharp images. Gift them a camera cleaning kit that includes a microfiber cloth, cleaning solution, and a blower brush.
Memory Card Case: Help them organize and protect their memory cards with a durable memory card case. Look for one that is water-resistant and has slots for different types of memory cards.
Camera Backpack: Upgrade their camera carry solution with a dedicated camera backpack. Look for one that is designed to protect their camera gear and provides easy access to their equipment while on the move.

These adventure photography accessories will help your backpacking friends capture their experiences and preserve their memories in high-quality photographs.

Portable Power and Charging

When backpacking, having access to reliable power and charging options is essential for staying connected and powered up. Here are some portable power and charging gifts that will keep your backpacking friends charged and ready to go:

Portable Power Bank: A portable power bank is a must-have for any backpacker. Look for one with a high capacity and multiple USB ports, allowing them to charge their devices multiple times on a single charge.
Solar Charger: Help them harness the power of the sun with a solar charger. These devices can charge their gadgets using solar energy, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly charging solution.
Multi-port USB Wall Charger: A compact and lightweight multi-port USB wall charger will allow them to charge multiple devices simultaneously while staying at accommodations with access to electricity.
Portable Solar Panels: If they are embarking on longer outdoor adventures, consider gifting them portable solar panels. These panels can efficiently convert sunlight into electricity, allowing them to charge their devices even when they are off the grid.
Car Charger: For backpackers who are road-tripping or hitchhiking, a car charger is essential. This will allow them to charge their devices while on the move, keeping them powered up during their journey.
Power Strip: A compact and lightweight travel power strip with multiple outlets will come in handy when they need to charge multiple devices or plug in their electronics in shared accommodations.

With these portable power and charging gifts, your backpacking friends will be able to stay connected, capture their adventures, and access essential information wherever they go.

Travel Entertainment

Long journeys and downtime during travel can sometimes be monotonous. Help your backpacking friends stay entertained and pass the time with these travel entertainment gifts:

Travel Board Games: Compact and travel-friendly board games are perfect for backpackers who enjoy playing games with friends. Look for games that are specifically designed for travel, with magnetic pieces and foldable boards.
Deck of Cards: A classic deck of cards is a versatile and lightweight entertainment option. There are countless card games they can play alone or with fellow travelers, making it a great way to socialize and have fun.
Travel-sized Portable Speaker: Give them the gift of music and enhance their travel experience with a compact and portable speaker. Look for one that is lightweight, Bluetooth-enabled, and has good sound quality.
Travel Journal: In addition to documenting their journey, a travel journal can also provide entertainment. Encourage them to sketch, write stories, or create travel bucket lists in their journal to keep their minds engaged.
Portable Travel Games: Compact travel games like mini chess sets, travel-sized Connect Four, or pocket-sized Sudoku and crossword puzzle books are great entertainment options for backpackers.
E-books or Audiobooks: Load up their devices with e-books or audiobooks to keep them entertained during long bus rides or flights. Choose genres or titles that align with their interests and preferences.

These travel entertainment gifts will ensure that your backpacking friends have something fun to do during their travel adventures, making their journeys even more enjoyable.

Health and Wellness Essentials

Traveling can sometimes take a toll on the health and well-being of backpackers. Help your friends stay healthy and take care of themselves with these essential health and wellness gifts:

Travel First Aid Kit: Keep them prepared for minor injuries and ailments with a compact and comprehensive travel first aid kit. Look for one that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other essentials.
Water Bottle with Purifier: Hydration is key while traveling. Gift them a reusable water bottle with a built-in purifier to ensure they have access to clean drinking water wherever they go.
Travel-sized Toiletries: Help them maintain good hygiene by providing travel-sized toiletries like hand sanitizer, sunscreen, bug repellent, and travel-sized toiletries.
Compression Socks: Long flights or extended walking can lead to swollen feet and discomfort. Compression socks improve circulation and reduce leg fatigue, ensuring their feet stay comfortable and supported.
Travel Yoga Mat: Encourage their well-being with a lightweight and compact travel yoga mat. Yoga is a great way to stay active, stretch tired muscles, and relieve stress during their travels.
Travel-sized Workout Equipment: Help them stay fit on the road by gifting travel-sized workout equipment like resistance bands or portable exercise sliders. These compact fitness tools can be easily packed and used for a variety of workouts.

These health and wellness essentials will contribute to the overall well-being of your backpacking friends, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Eco-friendly Gifts

For backpackers who are conscious about the environment and strive to minimize their ecological footprint while traveling, consider gifting them eco-friendly gifts that align with their sustainable values:

Reusable Water Bottle: Help them reduce plastic waste by gifting a sturdy and insulated reusable water bottle. Look for options that are free of harmful chemicals and can keep their drinks hot or cold for extended periods.
Reusable Utensil Set: Encourage them to ditch single-use plastic utensils with a reusable utensil set. Look for sets that include a fork, knife, spoon, and maybe even a reusable straw, all made from eco-friendly materials.
Solar-Powered Charger: Provide them with a sustainable power solution by gifting a solar-powered charger. This device harnesses the energy of the sun to charge their electronic devices, reducing the need for conventional electricity.
Reusable Produce Bags: Help them reduce the use of plastic bags while shopping for groceries with a set of reusable produce bags. These lightweight and washable bags are perfect for carrying fruits, vegetables, and other items.
Bamboo Toothbrush: Replace their plastic toothbrush with an eco-friendly bamboo toothbrush. Bamboo is a sustainable material that is biodegradable, making it an excellent alternative to plastic toothbrushes.
Biodegradable Soap: Keep them clean and eco-friendly with biodegradable soap bars. These soaps are gentle on the environment and do not leave a harmful impact when used in natural water sources.

By gifting these eco-friendly items, you are not only supporting your backpacking friends’ sustainable lifestyle but also contributing to the preservation of our planet.

Miscellaneous Travel Gifts

Sometimes, it’s the unique and unexpected gifts that make the biggest impact. Here are some miscellaneous travel gifts that are sure to surprise and delight your backpacking friends:

Travel-Sized Portable Washing Machine: Revolutionize their laundry routine with a travel-sized portable washing machine. This compact device allows them to wash their clothes on the go, saving them time and money on laundry services.
Travel Hammock: Give them the gift of relaxation with a lightweight and portable travel hammock. It’s perfect for setting up and relaxing in nature, whether on a beach, in the forest, or at a campsite.
Travel Pillow Blanket: Help them stay cozy and comfortable during their journey with a travel pillow blanket. This versatile accessory combines the functionality of a travel pillow and a soft blanket, ideal for long flights or bus rides.
Collapsible Water Bottle: Save space in their backpack with a collapsible water bottle. These bottles can be easily folded or rolled up when empty, taking up minimal space but providing ample hydration when filled.
Portable Bluetooth Speaker: Enhance their travel experience with a portable Bluetooth speaker. They can enjoy their favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks wherever they go, whether relaxing at a scenic viewpoint or hanging out with fellow travelers.
Travel Document Organizer: Help them keep their important travel documents organized and easily accessible with a travel document organizer. Look for one that has dedicated compartments for passports, boarding passes, and travel itineraries.

These miscellaneous travel gifts offer unique and unexpected features that will enhance your backpacking friends’ travel experiences. They are the little surprises that can make a big difference on their journey.