It’s that time of year again – the time when we all wait until the last minute to get our Christmas shopping in.
Oh wait, maybe that’s just me.
If there’s one thing you need to know about me, it’s that I’m a major Christmas gift-buying procrastinator.
Typically, intelligent kinds of people will start buying their Christmas presents on Black Friday and shop for all the deals. As for me, I have the best intentions to do that every year, but all the shopping doesn’t usually happen until the week of Christmas.
Something I’m also horrible at is telling people what to get me for Christmas. Throughout the year, it’s so easy to see something and be like, “wow, that’d be a great Christmas gift,” and then completely forget about it come December.
I’m super outdoorsy (if that’s not already obvious), so I’m always down to receive gifts that get me outside more, but it’s always hard to think of exactly what I want in the moment.
That’s where this list comes in!
This list is here to help anyone shopping for a partner/family/friend who loves the outdoors. Or you can also use this list to spark some ideas of what you may want for Christmas.
You’ll find three sections below: “$50 or less”, “$50+”, and “Thrifty Gift Option.” I didn’t include too many gift ideas for $50+ because if ya girl’s on a budget, I figure other people are too. So whether you want to splurge or not is up to you!
Disclaimer: This blog post features some affilliate links. This means I get a small commission if you choose to order, but it is no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Close to Creation – it means the world ☺
Outdoors Gifts – $50 or Less
50 States 5000 Ideas
Chris got me this for Christmas last year, and it has inspired multiple adventures on the road! Before we travel to a new place, I always check this book first to learn more about what the state offers. Each state has unique places to visit, fun things to do, and delicious food to eat. This book is perfect for travel enthusiasts who want to explore every state and the things that make it special.
U.S. National Parks Album & Guide
If you follow my Instagram stories or have seen my National Park YouTube videos, then you’ve seen this book before. This album is my favorite way to track my travels through the national parks. Whenever you go to a new park, you get to stamp AND put a unique park sticker in your album. It seriously makes me so happy every time I get to do it. If you or someone else loves national parks, then I HIGHLY recommend getting this!
Colorfulkoala Biker Shorts
I hopped on the biker short trend a little bit late, but I’m so glad I did. Not only are they perfect for sunset bike rides (which I take a lot), but they’re also great for hiking, grocery shopping, lounging around the house, and anything else you can think of. Okay, I don’t recommend wearing them alone to a wedding, but you could always wear them under a dress…just saying 🤪. I love Colorfulkoala because they’re so darn comfortable and easily affordable – it’s a win for everyone!
Colorfulkoala Buttery Soft Leggings
These leggings are just like the biker shorts – amazing! They genuinely give Lululemon a run for their money. I think the 4.5 stars and 45,000+ reviews can speak for themselves.
Summer Sun Hat w/ Ponytail Hole
The first time I saw this hat was when Chris and I were hiking Angel’s Landing at Zion National Park. A woman was hiking in front of us most of the way down, and I was in awe of how cool her hat was because it had a hole in the back for her ponytail. When we finally passed them, I couldn’t help but tell her how much I loved her hat, and she told me she found it on Amazon, of all places! It’s the perfect hat to wear in the summer when you want to get your hair off your neck and keep the sun out of your face.
Wise Owl Portable Hammock
This hammock takes me back to college. The good ole days when everyone had an ENO hammock, but I couldn’t afford one. So I bought this one off Amazon, and you can’t tell the difference! It’s just as good as an expensive portable hammock for half the price! I love pitching it up between two trees and curling up with a good book – one of my favorite ways to get outdoors, especially during a day spent mostly inside.
MOUNTAINTOP 40L Hiking Backpack
I discovered MOUNTAINTOP a couple of months ago when I was looking for a less-expensive mid-size hiking backpack, and I was utterly blown away by the value of this more affordable option. One would think an excellent quality, lightweight backpack that doesn’t break the bank would be hard to find – but look no further because this is it right here! It has a hydration system and rain cover, plus it’s super comfortable. It’s an excellent option for my hikers ballin’ on a budget.
Hydro Flask
Man, oh man, do I love my Hydro Flask. I’ve been gifted Hydro Flasks a few times over the years, and I’m always as giddy as a kid in a candy store when I get one. Not only does it keep your drink cold for hours, but the company is paving the way for a better future for the planet. Plus, most of their products have a lifetime warranty – score!
Outdoor-Themed Stickers
A Hydro Flask isn’t complete without some groovy stickers. Well, in this case, some outdoorsy stickers. My Hydro Flask is almost wholly covered with stickers that have been gifted to me and ones that I’ve found on my travels around the U.S. It’s a great conversation starter because many people have stopped me and asked me about where they’re from. Plus, it gives the bottle more character.
Outdoor Gifts – $50+
Kindle
I absolutely LOVE my Kindle! With how much I travel around – and am reading more than one book at any given time – having a small, lightweight library in my pocket (that’s not my phone) is the best. What does this have to do with getting outdoors? Well, there’s no place better to read than out in nature. There’s something so serene about finding the perfect quiet spot outside to get absorbed into a good book.
Garmin Watch
I switched from Apple to Garmin earlier this year, and I’m never going back! Don’t be fooled by its simple design – this watch is absolutely perfect for any outdoor lover. It does all the standard stuff that an Apple Watch does (tells time, tracks heart rate and activity, connects to your phone, etc.), but what makes the Garmin special is its insane 14-day battery life and ability to withstand harsh outdoor environments. Plus, it has its own GPS mode, which is perfect for hiking!
Chaco Sandals
I swear I live in my Chacos. Whether I’m out running errands or going for a short hike in summer, Chacos are always my first choice. It’s funny because adding this to the list takes me back to summer camp when everyone and their mother wore Chacos. It’s 5+ years later, and they’re still not out of style!
Thrifty Gift Option
This last thing I wanted to mention is a GREAT thrifty option – because we all love those.
If you’re looking to buy outdoor gear at a fraction of the price, I highly recommend checking out Geartrade.com. Geartrade is a magical place where people can sell their new or used gear, and people all around the world can buy it.
I’m talking name-brand stuff like Patagonia, North Face, Backcountry, Colombia, Cotopaxi, and so much more. The best part is that it’s seriously discounted from the original price you would find in stores.
I’ve ordered multiple pieces and have been happy with all of them! Plus, it made me extra happy because I saved tons of money on name-brand apparel. So definitely check it out before you go and pay full price for outdoor gear.
That’s all for the 2022 holiday gift guide! Don’t see one of your outdoor favorites on this list? Then, let me know what you think I should add in the comments below!
*All the pictures are taken from the linked website.
