10 Gift Ideas Under $10 for Hiking, Backpacking, & Camping Enthusiasts

10 Gift Ideas Under $10 for Hiking, Backpacking & Camping Enthusiasts�

Are you looking for great gift ideas for a hiker, backpacker, or camper? Here are ten inexpensive gifts, each under $10, that are sure to be appreciated by hiking, backpacking, and camping enthusiasts!�

Emergency Whistle
These devices are important for both new and experienced hikers, backpackers, and campers to carry. Three loud blasts on the whistle repeated over and over signals distress, and helps get the attention of others. Choose an emergency whistle constructed without a small warbling ball inside. These may become ineffective if the warbler gets wet and swells. Whistles designed to attach to a backpack are extra handy.�

Freeze-dried�Meals
These easy to prepare snacks and foods come in a wide variety of one and two-serving meals. Most avid hikers and backpackers will probably want a two-serving portion after a full day's hike. There are several package styles. Those in a zip lock pouch are very convenient. The meal can be prepared quickly by opening the pouch, adding water, and sealing until ready. Mountain House brand freeze-dried meals are popular for taste and quality among outdoor enthusiasts.�

Waterproof Matches
Fire starters are a good, inexpensive gift choice for hikers and campers of all experience levels. Enclose them in a plastic bag, as the matchbox and striker are probably not waterproof. Backpackers, hikers, and campers should have more than one source of fire. Propane lighters are a good alternative gift.�

Hiking, Backpacking, or Camping Magazine
There are a variety of magazines for hikers, backpackers, and campers from which to choose. Some are written for novices; some for experienced outdoorsmen. These publications often include how-to and personal experience articles, new equipment evaluations, safety tips, and trail and campground reviews.�

Bootlaces
Something as common as bootlaces can be a great, inexpensive gift for hikers and campers. Without extra laces along, a broken lace can prematurely end an outing. Most regular hiking bootlaces are 72" long and round instead of flat shaped. They come in several different colors.�

Fabric Ditty Bags
Small fabric ditty bags help organize hiking and camping supplies and keep small items from getting lost. They are lightweight and usually made from nylon, with a drawstring closure. Ditty bags come in different sizes and colors.

Wilderness Guide
These are detailed topographical maps of limited areas. Some are waterproof. There are also full-size plastic sleeves available to roll up some guides, such as Pacific Northwest green maps. Look for wilderness guides at outdoor stores and stationery stores.�

Emergency Light Sticks
Light sticks are safety devices used to attract attention in an emergency, by being twirled around on the end of a string. They also will emit a little light in the event of battery failure. Light sticks are sold in packages of several, in different colors.�

Metal Hand Warmer
These comfort-inducing devices for backpackers, hikers, and campers come in several varieties - lighter fluid, burning fuel sticks, or chemical interaction. They usually are packaged with a fabric pouch storage bag. Toe warmers are also available.�

Energy Bars
The bars are lightweight food items made from a variety of ingredients; in a variety of tastes and flavors. They make a nice snack while hiking, to keep energy levels up. Energy bars usually combine proteins and carbohydrates, and are an easy, good-tasting treat for backpackers, hikers, and campers.