Princeton Tec Helix Backcountry

When putting together this holiday gift guide we tried to only include things that we would love to own ourselves. That way, we could be fairly certain that anyone who received one of these products as a gift would enjoy it. We have included everything from stocking stuffers to a car tent over a $1,000. We are confident that you will be able to find that perfect gift.

Princeton Tec Helix Backcountry Rechargeable

When looking for a great gift, we are always looking for something that is unique and functional. The latest addition to Princeton Tec’s family of Helix lanterns is the Helix Backcountry Rechargeable. The small, compact, and lightweight lantern stands on four foldable legs and features a collapsible globe, allowing the lantern to hang or stand anywhere. An intuitive swipe-control technology allows access the 150-lumen white dimmable and red dimmable Maxbright LED lights. The lantern can be recharged via Micro-USB and has a burn time between 6 and 22 hours depending on settings. This is the perfect tool to hang in your tent, hut or tool bench.

Features:

• Weight: 155 Grams

• MSRP: $79.99

http://www.princetontec.com/helix-backcountry-rechargeable

Black Diamond Iota

Black Diamond Iota Headlamp 

Some of the perfect gifts come in smallest packages. The Black Diamond Iota Headlamp is new for Spring’17 but being released early, specifically for the holiday season.  It features 150 lumens and is the smallest, lightest, rechargeable headlamp on the market. The Iota is ideal for early morning or evening hikes with a burn time of up to 40 hours and rainproof exterior. 

Features:

• 1 TriplePower LED with 150 lumens 

• Powered by a lithium ion rechargeable battery (3-hour USB charge time)

• Settings include full strength, dimming and strobe

• PowerTap Technology allows fast and simple transitioning between full and dimmed power in order to instantly increase illumination in distance or proximity modes

• IPX4: Storm proof

• MSRP: $39.95

http://blackdiamondequipment.com/en_US/headlamps-and-lanterns/iota-headlamp-BD620628SLWTALL1.html

 Power Practical Luminoodle

Power Practical Luminoodle 

Looking for a unique gift this Christmas for the one who seems to have everything. The Luminoodle is an all-in-one portable USB lighting solution. Perfect for camping, #vanlife, and anywhere in between, the Luminoodle provides bright, spread out light to see your surroundings. It is flexible, waterproof, dust proof and powered by any USB battery or power source. Luminoodle comes with universal ties, embedded magnets, utility loop and a lantern bag so you can stick, strap, hook or hang it to add light to your night. Available in 5 ft. and 10 ft. sections.

Features:

• LED strip produces 180 lumens of light.

• Universal Ties, magnets, & utility loop for easy hanging.

• Rip-stop nylon carry bag designed to diffuse light

• Works with any USB port or universal battery pack

• IP-67 rated up to 1 meter for 30 minutes

• 5 ft. rope, MSRP: $19.99 and 10 ft. rope, MSRP: $29.99

https://powerpractical.com/products/luminoodle-led-light-rope?variant=13865340358

EnerPlex Kickr IV Solar Panel

EnerPlex Kickr IV

With so many products being rechargeable now, having a way to charge them while away from the grid is a must. The Kickr IV is a lightweight solar panel which is made in USA. While most panels use a glass or metal-sheet backing, EnerPlex uses a proprietary, flexible plastic manufacturing technique, saving weight and adding durability while not sacrificing efficiency. Designed to charge at the same rate as a wall outlet while in direct sunlight. 

Features:

• With 6 watts of true output, our ultra lightweight Kickr™ IV is the perfect blend of size & power 

• Patented solar on plastic CIGS thin film solar technology makes the Kickr™ IV extremely light & flexible, weighing only 0.6 lbs.

• Water resistant & designed for the harshest conditions, the EnerPlex® Kickr™ IV can withstand shocks, drops and minor punctures.

• Made in the USA: Leading, American manufactured solar technology you can trust. Engineered and 100% made in Thornton, Colorado.

• MSRP: $99.99

https://www.goenerplex.com/products/usb-enabled-portable-solar-chargers/flexible-portable-solar-charger-kickr-iv

High Sierra Karadon 55L

High Sierra Karadon 55L

Finding the pack that is just right for a gift is not hard to do with the Karadon series from High Sierra. The Karadon series for men and women include hydration, day packs and hiking & camping backpacks. The Karadon 55L comes with removable and washable shoulder straps, hip belt, and lumbar padding, allowing for hand-wash and dry. Removable suspension panel that increase the storage capacity of the packs when needed. The Karadon series is available in pop colors, and ranging from 5L-65L.

Features:

• Hydration compatible: dedicated reservoir sleeve 

• Zippered accessory pocket 

• Reflective light blinker loop 

• Adaptable back panel system 

• Hidden rain cover

• MSRP: $59.99-$219.99

http://shop.highsierra.com/active-outdoors/frame-packs/high-sierra-karadon-55l-w-s-m/70520XXXX.html

Mind Shift Trailscape

MindShift Gear TrailScape 18L

This Christmas get the perfect gift for that someone who loves to hike and take pictures. MindShift Gear’s new TrailScape backpack balances outdoor photographers’ desire to have access to their essential photo gear while maintaining a slim and compact profile. The TrailScape fits a complete camera system, including a 70-200mm f/2.8 attached with hood in the shooting position. With its multiple lash points, photographers can carry extra gear, such as a light jacket and lunch. And, its laptop and tablet slots allow them to use this as their “go to” backpack while in transit. 

Features:

• Dedicated quick access smartphone/sunglasses pocket

• Tripod/monopod/hiking pole mounting system on sides

• Two large water bottle pockets with cinch cord

• Seamless rain cover included for downpour conditions

• Side compression straps for additional lash points

• Holds 1 standard-size DSLR and 4-6 standard zoom lenses

• Holds 2 large mirrorless body and 5-7 lenses plus a flash

• Maximum lens size: 300mm f/2.8 

• MSRP: $169.99

http://www.mindshiftgear.com/products/trailscape-18l

Slumberjack In Season 2 tent

SJK In-Season 2 Tent

If you are looking for a tent this holiday season that will hold up to any season and that will not break the bank, the In-Season 2 might be just that tent. The 3-door/3-vestibule In-Season 2 Tent features a burly, full coverage, waterproof fly to keep the weather out while keeping you and your gear dry. Multiple ventilation options provide optimal heat and condensation management while the vestibule door can be pitched out as a shaded porch. 

Features:

• Stout 4-Season 5-pole architecture is ready for late season storms

• Extra long 7′ 9″ floor area easily accommodates tall users & gear

• Large window in front vestibule

• Color coded poles provide quick and easy assembly

• Lightweight 7001 series aluminum pole set

• Weight: 7lbs, 5oz. 

• MSRP: $269.95

https://slumberjack.com/in-season-2/

Tepui Baja Tent

Tepui Tents’ Baja Series

If you are looking to spoil the one you love this holiday season look no further than the Baja Series fo tents. Perfect as a base camp, the new Baja Series tents are the Santa Cruz-based brand’s lightest to-date and allow rooftop tent users to interchange canopies depending on the conditions they face, including winter. The Baja Series is the latest in Tepui’s growing list of innovations that have made the brand a category leader in rooftop tents.

• MSRP: starting at $1,150

http://tepuitents.com/collections/baja-series

Klymit Hammock V

Klymit Hammock V 

The Hammock V is the perfect gift for those who love hammocks. The Hammock V is the first air pad designed specifically for hammocks. The Hammock V features Klymit’s signature body mapping technology and has non-slip regions to keep your pad and sleeping bag in place all night long. This form fitting pad provides a barrier from the cold below and to the sides. The Hammock V has a R value of 1.3 and weighs 26.2 oz. 

Features:

• Size: 47” x 78” x 2.5″

• Weight: 26.2 oz 

• R Value: 1.3

• MSRP: $139.95

http://www.klymit.com/hammock-v-1.html

Optimus Stoves Elektra FE Cook System

Optimus Stoves Elektra FE Cook System

This holiday season get the gift of a quicker and more efficient cook system. The Elektra FE is a great solution for backpackers and campers alike who are looking for a quick and easy way to cook their food. The Elektra FE Cook System is a fuel-efficient, high-performance stove. You get a 28% faster boil tie at a 20% fuel savings. The lightweight system fits snugly in your pack and includes the Crux Lite stove, a heat exchange pot with lid, clip-on windscreen and a handheld Piezo ignitor. 

Features:

• Fuel type: LPG Gas

• Average burn time: Up to 90 min at maximum output (with 220 g of fuel)

• Average boil time for 1 L of waterApprox. 2.3 min/1 L, depending on climate, altitude etc.

• Clip-on windshield

• Weight: 455g

• MSRP: $94.95 

www.optimusstoves.com

Kelly Kettle Basecamp kit

Ultimate Kelly Kettle Camp Kit

The Kelly Kettle has been around for over 100 years. Why? Because it works! It has been tried and tested all over the world, in every imaginable condition. It has nothing to get bent or broken. Requires no batteries or wind breakers. Uses all natural fuel, so there is never any canister fuels to buy or discard of. Altitude does not affect its performance. It simply works every time, and works even better in windy conditions.

Features:

• Large “Base Camp” Kelly Kettle and 32 oz. pot

• Lid / Frying Pan

• Two Piece Grill

• Pot Gripper

• Packable Camp Cups with CooLip™ protector and inside measurements

• Hobo Stove for cooking for long periods over the firebase

• 2 Camp Plates

• Pot Support for cooking over the chimney

• All products are made from high quality Stainless Steel

• Nylon stuff sack 

• MSRP: $169.00

http://www.kellykettleusa.com/ultimate-stainless-base-camp-kit.html

RinseKit

RinseKit

When putting together our gift guide it was hard for us to choose just one category for the RinseKit. This versatile product could virtually fit in any guide. The simple, space efficient ‘hose-to-go’ easily attaches to a standard spigot, stores pressurized water inside a small cooler-sized reservoir, and sprays high-pressure water whenever and wherever needed without the use of batteries or a motor. Perfect for a campsite, boat dock, beach or in the car for extended road trips, RinseKit helps you quickly clean yourself, your gear or even a dirty dog. RinseKit holds 2 gallons of water, weighs 24 pounds when full, retains water pressure for a month and offers up to 3 minutes of spray time – long enough to take a quick shower and spray down dirty camp dishes or rinse saltwater off of fishing gear.

• MSRP: $89.99

http://www.rinsekit.com/product/white-rinsekit/

Bertucci DX3 Plus

Bertucci DX3 Plus

The DX3 line, which launched in 2015, has quickly become a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts due to its lightweight construction, rugged performance and value-driven pricing, making it the perfect Christmas gift. But this year Bertucci has expanding its popular DX3® line adding the DX3 Plus. The DX3 Plus features a classic field watch design with a controlled use of color on the watch face, hands, markers and nylon band. There are seven different models in the DX3 Plus line with colors like: Defender Drab, Granite Gray and Patrol Green. 

Features:

• Scratch-resistant hardened mineral glass crystal

• Active Comfort™ ergonomic 4 o’clock crown does not impinge wrist movement

• Swiss super luminous hands & markers

• 12/24 hour markings dial

• 50 M water resistance

• 4 year battery life

• 3 year warranty

• MSRP: $75.00

http://www.bertucciwatches.com/Bertucci/DX3Plus.html

Native Eldo

Native Eldo

One of our favorite things about Native glasses are that they look great but are technology at the same time. The Eldo is no exception and is made with a new Trilaminate Injection Technology for frame production as well as castor-based, biodegradable frame materials, which offers a superior strength-to-weight ratio. This style features a bold flat brow style, large impact-resistant lens, and enhanced clarity. Inspired by the persevering spirit of this frame’s namesake town, the Eldo is your perfect companion for hitting the trail all day and capping it off with a celebratory beverage.

Features:

• Revolutionary anti-ocular intrusion system that prevents lenses from dangerously shooting toward your eyes in the event of an impact

• Exhaust vents that enhance airflow and significantly reduce fog

• Cushioned and adjustable nose pads that ensure a soft feel and custom fit

• Flexible hinges that allow the temple to quickly and securely lock into position 

• Interchangeable Lens System

• MSRP: $129.00

https://nativeyewear.com/shop/sunglasses/eldo/eldo-desert-tort-pol-n3-brown

AlpineAire Guacamole and Tortilla CHips

AlpineAire Guacamole and Tortilla Chips

I don’t know that you think of freeze-dried food as a gift, but this Guacamole and Tortilla Chips will be a hit. Using classic all natural ingredients, fresh guacamole is made in small batches then immediately freeze dried to preserve all the flavor and nutrients. Now you can have a party on the trail by surprising your friends and your taste buds with the instant convenience of AlpineAire Foods freeze dried Guacamole. 

• MSRP: $6.99 

https://www.alpineaire.com/us/us/5679-60455-guacamole-and-chips

LL Bean Adventure Sleeping Bag

L.L.Bean Adventure Sleeping Bag, 25F Mummy

Any backpacking holiday gift guide would not be complete without a sleeping bag. The Adventure sleeping bag is a super comfortable and relaxed mummy shape for those that don’t like the super snug fit. This 25-degree mummy sleeping bag is one of the most affordable, lightweight and spacious you’ll find. Use it for three seasons of backpacking and camping adventures.

Features:

• Weight: 3 lb. 14 oz.

• Dimensions: 82″ x 34″

• Fits to: 5′ 11″

• Packed size: 15″ x 9″

• Synthetic ST2 insulation that stays warm even when wet and won’t clump

• Fill is sewn in overlapping baffles to eliminate cold spots.

• A wide bar of antisnag tape keeps zipper running smoothly.

• Hook-and-loop tabs secure zipper overnight.

• MSRP: $99.95

http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/112495?feat=505846-GN3&page=adventure-sleeping-bag-25f-mummy&attrValue_0=Balsam&productId=1566670

Mountain Hardwear Laminina Z Flame

Mountain Hardwear Laminina Z Flame 21 degree Sleeping bag

The Laminina Z Flame is specifically for the lady on your shopping list this year. This bags’ unique construction maximizes the loft of your insulation, eliminates cold spots and thermally maps insulation to areas you need the most warmth. By strategically placing insulation, this bag concentrate the warmth where women need it most – around your core and feet. The comfort mummy fit of this 21°F-rated bag offers room to move while remaining thermally efficient. Soft polyester lining wicks away moisture and lightweight nylon shell repels water. Full-length zipper has double sliders for ventilation.

Features:

• Zoned insulation maximizes warmth where it’s needed most

• Thermal Q® insulation has outstanding compressibility and maintains excellent loft

• Comfort footbox follows natural foot position for maximum warmth and comfort

• Face gasket and tailored hood comfortably block drafts at the hood opening and seal in warmth

• Durable, lightweight nylon shell with DWR treatment repels water

• Nylon compression stuff sack and mesh storage bag included

• Weight: 3 lb 7 oz 

• MSRP: $179.00

http://www.mountainhardwear.com/womens-laminina-z-flame-21-sleeping-bag-regular-1568341.html?dwvar_1568341_variationColor=391#q=laminina&start=7

Kelty Bestie Blanket

Kelty Bestie Blanket

This Christmas season give the gift of warmth. It’s perfectly sized for lounging around the campfire or for warming up with a good book. Insulated with Cloudloft, this blanket will be sure to keep you and your besties warm. Stuff sack includes a handle for easy transport to your cozy moments.

Features:

• Cloudloft Insulation

• Perfect sized fit for lounging around the campfire

• Stuff sack included

• Exclusive pattern only available on Kelty.com

• MSRP: $22.95

https://kelty.com/kelty-built-bestie-blanket/

Cairn

Cairn

Give the gift of outdoor discovery all year long. Cairn is a monthly delivery of outdoor goods that any outdoor adventurers will love with every delivery. For just $25 per box, Cairn carefully curates 4 – 5 trail-ready products valued at $35-40. Products include gear, apparel, food/energy, skincare and emergency/medical. Each month offers a new variety of products. For the holiday’s they also have some Holiday Gift Boxes.

• MSRP: $25.00

http://www.getcairn.com/collections/gift

Swiftwick Pursuit Hike

Swiftwick PURSUIT Hike Socks

Socks are always a classic holiday gift, but the PURSUIT Hike line of socks are more than just your normal white pair of cotton socks that you got when you were younger. To create the ultimate dry performance for hikers on the trail, Swiftwick added Olefin, an inherently water repellant fiber, to the proven outdoor performance of Merino wool. With our socks, athletes will experience a Contoured Compression Fit and Fiber First Moisture Wicking which creates a dry, blister-free environment for users’ feet. The PURSUIT Hike comes in light and medium cushion in classic outdoor colors, giving hikers the opportunity to choose the right socks for their trail, pack load and personal preference.

Features:

• Linked Toe Technology

• Contoured Compression™ Fit

• Fiber-First™ Moisture Wicking

• Dry Performance

• MSRP: $21.99-$23.99

http://www.swiftwick.com/pursuit-hike-six-brown-red-light-cushion-13198-prd1.htm

FITS Light Hiker Socks

FITS Light Hiker Crew

Another pair of sock in this guide as we believe you can never have too many good pairs of socks. The Light Hiker Crew is FITS most popular hiking sock style. It is cushioned under foot to take the pounding of an all day hike while managing all the moisture you can throw at it. 

Features: 

• FITS’s patented Full Contact Fit® (hugs the contours of your foot and stays put)

• Crew height rises just below the calf, and extra cushioning in the heel, toe and the arch.

• MSRP: $20.99

https://www.fitssock.com/collections/men/products/light-hiker-crew?variant=14981500807

Sagan Xtreme Straw

Sagan XStream Straw Filter

Having a way to get drinkable water while out hiking or backpacking is necessary for any outdoor adventurer. The XStream Water Filter Straw has been tested and certified by independent water laboratories to remove 250 gallons of bacteria, virus, giardia and cryptosporidium. No more laying in the dirt and mud trying to get a drink. This amazing filter extends to 4 ft. in length, is lightweight, and will pack away anywhere such as a coat pocket or backpack.

Features: 

• The XStream Straw Water Filter meets or exceeds the United States EPA water quality standards for removal of virus, bacteria, giardia and 118 other unwanted chemicals for up to 250 gallons.

• Comes as a 2 ft length with a 2 ft extension, total 4 ft (48″) long. 

• Weighs only 5 oz.  

• MSRP: $74.99

http://www.kellykettleusa.com/sagan-aquabrick-water-filters/sagan-xstream-straw-filter.html

SOL Traverse

The Survive Outdoors Longer Traverse

Give the gift of preparedness this holiday season. When the unexpected happens, having survival supplies close at hand is key. The Survive Outdoors Longer Traverse, ($20), is an all-in-one kit for survival, Weighing just 6.1 oz., the rugged aluminum kit includes an emergency blanket, Duct tape roll, fire striker and tinder, water purification tablets and water bag, safety pins and survival tips. The Traverse makes a great stocking stuffer for any outdoor adventurer.

• MSRP: $20.00

http://www.surviveoutdoorslonger.com/survival/kits/sol-traverse-traverse.html

The New Primal Uncurred Bacon

The New Primal Meat Sticks

This is another great stocking stuffer idea. The New Primal use only responsibly sourced 100% grass-fed beef, free-range turkey and naturally raised pork snacks, in their meat stick flavors. This year they introduce four new flavors: Habanero Pineapple Beef, Cilantro Lime Turkey and their first pork products, Maple Bacon Pork and Barbecue Pork. These flavors are a refreshing take on the traditional meat stick varieties and offer unexpected fun to the snack market.   

The new meat stick flavors retail for $1.99 per unit or two different sampler packs will also be available. The Meat Stick Sampler box contains three sticks of each flavor and retails for $41.95. The Classics Sampler box contains a bag of Classic Beef, Spicy Beef and Classic Turkey Jerky along with two sticks of Classic Beef, Spicy Beef and Classic Turkey and retails for $32.95.

http://shop.thenewprimal.com/meat-sticks/

Pine Mountain ExtremeStart Firestarter

Pine Mountain ExtremeStart Firestarter

I don’t know about you but finding some great stocking stuffers is always a must. The Pine Mountain ExtremeStart Firestarter is a perfect winter camping companion. It’s pretty tiny (about the size of a Swiss Army Knife) and can get a fire started in minutes. No need to hunt for kindling or pack newspaper with you.

Features:

• For indoor or outdoor use—fireplaces, fire pits, charcoal grills, wood barbeque grills and smokers

• Burns 20+ minutes for quick and easy lighting

• Clean burning and odorless with less flare-up

• MSRP: 12-Pack; $5.98

http://pinemountainfire.com/products/extremestart-firestarter

Helinox Chair Zero

Helinox Chair Zero

When every ounce counts while backpacking the Chair Zero is a perfect option for those looking for a way to sit comfortably in the backcountry. The superlight and compact Helinox Chair Zero weighs one pound and packs small. The seat sits eleven inches off the ground for comfort and its strong frame can support up to 265 pounds. The best part is that it packed down to the size of a larger water bottle. 

Features:

• Superlight compact backpacking/camping chair

• Single shock corded pole structure for easy setup

• Compact size for easy packing /carrying

• Stuff sack included

• Packed Weight 1.1 lb.

• Capacity 265 lb.

• MSRP: $119.95

https://www.bigagnes.com/Products/Detail/Helinox/chairzero