'Tis the season for spreading outdoor joy, and here at Em Outdoors, I've curated a fantastic list of affordable gifts for the nature lovers and adventure seekers in your life – all under $30! Enjoy!
Ah, the season of giving is upon us, and while we all want to shower our outdoorsy pals with the finest gear, our wallets might be singing a different tune. Inflation didn't do anyone any favours!
But don't worry! From cozy winter gear to handy camping tools, there are plenty of thoughtful and affordable options that will warm the hearts of your adventurous friends and family. I've done the work for you and dug up a list of fun and useful gifts that won't break the bank. Let's explore some fantastic gift ideas that won't exceed a $30 budget.
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1. Outdoor Cookbook (Price: ~$20)
An outdoor cookbook is an ideal gift for those who love to combine their passion for cooking with their outdoor adventures. Outdoor specific cookbooks provide delicious and practical recipes tailored for campfire and camp stove cooking. Check out this Trailside Cookbook as an example.
2. Kula Cloth (~$26)
The Kula Cloth is the perfect eco-friendly companion for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a portable, antimicrobial pee cloth that is not only practical and sustainable but also designed with vibrant, nature-inspired prints, ensuring a stylish and comfortable experience during your outdoor adventures.
3. Travel-friendly Games (Price: $12 - $20)
Compact and portable games are great for spicing up campfire evenings and bonding with friends and family while on the go. Yahtzee, Hanabi, Anomia or Cribbage are all great options!
4. Outdoor Adventure Journal (Price: $13 - $16)
Help your outdoorsy friend's keep memories alive and document their escapades with a journal. Moleskin makes pocket journals, or you may opt in a waterproof journal, like this one from Rite in the Rain.
5. Waterproof Dry Bag (Price: $20 - $30)
Help your adventurous friends keep their gear dry on kayaking trips, hikes, or rainy days. A waterproof dry bag is a versatile and essential accessory for any outdoor lover. My favourite ones are the MEC Nano 3D Dry Bag which come in a variety of sizes and prices.
6. Travel Clothesline (Price: ~$19)
Another one of my essential travel items I've talked about in my previous blog posts and on Instagram is the Sea To Summit travel clothesline. Super handy, well designed and goes for $18.95 at MEC.
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7. Pocket Soap (Price: $7)
Great as stocking stuffers, Sea To Summit makes pocket soaps which are little leaves of soap that dissolve in water and are biodegradable, phosphate and paraben free. Also, since they are not liquid, they are carry-on friendly! These come in a body wash and laundry option.
8. Nature Guide Book (Price: ~$20)
A nature guide book offers a wealth of information and insights into flora, fauna, and natural habitats, making it the perfect companion for outdoor exploration. You can choose one specific to the preferred area too. Check this one out for Ontario here.
9. Therm-a-rest Z-seat (Price: $20 - $35)
Anyone who's been reading this blog or following me on Instagram has probably heard a LOT about this Z-seat that I use constantly for a seat while camping, backpacking and also for comfort on long canoe paddles. Though typically these are $36 at MEC, I found them online for cheaper on Amazon.ca for $19.95 (select the "Coyote" colour).
10. Soft Flask (Price: $20 - $30)
Staying hydrated is essential during outdoor activities. A soft flask for Fireball... ahem, I mean... water.... is a convenient and collapsible way to carry liquids while hiking, biking, or camping.
11. Outdoor-Themed Mugs (Price: $8 - $20)
Warm beverages are a must during Canadian outdoor adventures. Gift a stylish, outdoor-themed mug that features nature designs or witty camping quotes. Perfect for sipping hot cocoa by the campfire or enjoying a morning coffee with a view. Check out this "Take a Hike" mug by Mountain Warehouse, on sale for $7.99.
12. Camping Utensil Set (Price: $20 - $30)
Give the gift of eating campfire meals with a compact camping utensil set. It's a practical addition to any camper's gear collection. Check out this GSI option here.
13. Hand Warmers and Body Warmers (Price: $10 - $20)
Canadian winters are chilly, and hand and body warmers are a perfect way to keep warm during outdoor adventures. They're a thoughtful stocking stuffer for your outdoorsy friends - especially the ones that run cold!
14. Thermal Socks (Price: $15 - $25)
A classic Christmas gift. Keeping feet warm in Canada's cold winters is a priority. Gift a couple of pairs of high-quality thermal socks to keep your friends comfortable and cozy during their outdoor escapades. I recommend basically any sock from Darn Tough or Smartwool - did you know Darn Tough socks have a lifetime warranty? Both brands can be found at MEC.ca and lots of other outdoor stores.
15. Packing Cubes (Price: $20 - $30)
For your organized outdoorsy friend: organizational packing cubes to keep gear and clothing in order during travels like these ones from Eddie Bauer, currently on sale for $27 (as of Nov 20, 2023).
16. First Aid Kit (Price: $15 - $30)
Safety third! There are tons of options out there for first aid kits tailored for outdoor activities and emergencies. MEC has lots of options for these and they vary depending on the duration of the activity. Check out this Day Trip Kit.
17. Bandana or Buff (Price: $20 - $30)
Another great stocking stuffer, bandanas or buffs are versatile and multifunctional to protect against the elements. And they come in all sorts of fun colours - check it out!
18. Massage Therapy Gift Card (Price: choose your own adventure!)
Give the gift of relaxation with a massage therapist gift card, providing your adventurous friend or family member with a well-deserved break from their outdoor escapades to soothe their muscles and unwind.
19 .Compact Multitool (Price: $15 - $30)
A compact multitool is an essential item for any outdoorsy person. And you don't need to drop $120 on a Leatherman. Just look for one with features like a knife, bottle opener, and screwdriver. It's a handy companion for camping, hiking, and day-to-day tasks. Check out this one on Amazon.ca which is $26.99 even says I Love You on it - CUTE!
These affordable gifts show that you don't need to spend a fortune to make the outdoor enthusiasts in your life happy. Whether it's a warm beverage by the fire or a practical tool for their next adventure, these items are sure to enhance their outdoor experiences.
Do you have recommendations for great gifts for outdoor fanatics? I'd love to hear from you. Comment below!
Happy gifting and happy holidays!
My travel clothesline has to be one of my favourite items! Great list!
Don't sleep on the packing cubes! Something you might never buy for yourself but can really change your life! The outdoor cookbook can be a game-changer too, and the clothesline is one of my favourite pieces.