We’ve put together a list of our favorite gear for that special man in your life to enjoy on his next outdoor adventure. If your dad, brother, son, husband, boyfriend, or uncle enjoys camping, then we think this list will provide some great gift ideas. Most of the linked items use our affiliate links with Amazon to make your shopping easy.
Luci solar Lantern
This lightweight lantern is a heavyweight when it comes to features and practical uses. We love this simple way to light things up! Check out our full review to see why this innovative gadget will be a handy addition to your man’s outdoor fun.
ANKER portable power bank charger
We like how lightweight and compact this portable power bank is for cell phones, notebooks, Kindle, etc. Powered by a lithium-ion battery this unit is rapid charging and easily fits in your pocket or backpack. It comes in multiple colors with red being the easiest to spot quickly.
Hand-held radios
These handheld 2-way radios are rugged, and versatile while keeping us connected in the backcountry. Often we will find no cell phone reception where we camp and like to use our radios to stay connected and save cell phone batteries. While hiking we have been impressed with the clarity over distance even when there is no line of sight. Check out our review.
Bifocal Sunglasses
Having polarized bifocal sunglasses with “cheaters” will help him see to tie a lure or take out a cactus sliver. The 1.5 magnification works well for me, but the bifocal comes in various magnification strengths.
Magazine subscription
Choose magazines featuring a wide range of hobbies including Outdoor, Handyman, BackPacker, Bicycling, Fishing, and lots more to give your special guy a subscription to enjoy all year long.
Bozeman Coffee Percolator
This is our go-to for a great cup of joe while camping. Read our review for all the deets.
Include a delicious smelling bag of ground coffee to get him started. We like Peet’s Major Dickenson found at most grocery stores. Don’t forget the filters.
Papa Bear Mug
Get a fun design insulated mug to keep beverages hot or cold just for “Papa Bear.” Stuff it with hot cocoa mix, a specialty coffee, or include a 6-pack of his favorite brew.
Headlamp for hands-free fun
A headlamp is so handy for lighting the way while keeping your hands free. There are a ton of choices out there. The Go For Wild is the one we like with a motion sensor to easily switch the light on and off or change modes.
Lightweight sleeping pad
Sleep outdoors in comfort with this super lightweight inflatable mattress. Pres used a Therm-a-rest for years but found the Klymit Static V saves him quite a bit of weight when backpacking and is really happy with the comfort it provides. The sleeping pad folds up nice and small and only weighs 18.7 ounces.
Men’s Water shoes
These men’s Crocs for water adventures provide protection for his toes while staying secure on his foot and allowing water to easily drain off.
Don’t forget the Edibles
Stuff his gift basket with specialty cheeses with jerky, salami and crackers, Homemade cookies, granola bars or brownies, will help stave off the hangray while outdoors. Yummy soups in a cup are great comfort food for cold evenings.
Spice up his backpacking meals with a variety of freeze-dried food. We have used the Mountain House brand for many years with their large variety of meals from breakfast to dinner. Beef stroganoff is one of Pres’ favorites.
Homemade coupons
Use your imagination to come up with fun and meaningful ways to bless your special guy. Make coupons by hand or use the printer with special paper. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- wash the car/ truck
- back or foot rub with special lotion
- shopping trip for new duds
- bake his favorite cake or dessert
- night out at the pub or brewery
- treat to breakfast or lunch out
- movie tickets
- offer to help with a chore or clean the garage
- coupon for an oil change for his vehicle
Wrap it all up
Place all of the goodies you’ve picked out for your man in a handy reusable storage bin and tie a handy bandana for the bow on the handle. Thrift stores are a great place to pick up gift baskets. I’ve seen fabric storage bins at our local Dollar Store too. Now you’re all set with a custom, practical gift he will so appreciate!
