For the guy who likes to camp, there are a million and one really great gifts out there. It will depend on the type of camping that they like as “camping” can mean many things to different people. To some, it is rolling up with the RV in a nice campground that has level spaces, designated power and water, a picnic table, and a fire pit. To others, it is hiking miles away from civilization where there are no amenities whatsoever. You carry everything in and out, and you are completely alone with nature. And then of course there is the middle ground, where it is a campground but instead of rolling up with a $90,000 RV the size of the Taj Mahal and as nice as the Ritz-Carlton, it’s a normal tent and cot, with a camp stove. My wife and I happen to fall in the latter of those two categories, but not saying I haven’t at times been jealous of the RV when I have a root digging into my back while trying to sleep or it starts raining at night. But no matter where the guy you are shopping for falls in the spectrum, there are some spectacular gifts for men in the camping category.
I’m going to assume that if the guy likes camping, he already has his own tent. In case he does not however or has just expressed interest in camping, this is the tent that I personally own and absolutely love. It’s not too complicated to set up and has been very durable. I am 6’1” so having an almost 6’3” tall tent has been amazing. However, you have to get the 6 person version for that.
Gifts for the backpackers and backwoods trekkers.
Compact Stoves
Unless they are planning on eating cold food the whole time camp stove is a most a must, and since everything is being carried on their back, a compact and light option is very important.
MSR’s stove is tried and true. It is extremely durable and has the huge benefit in that it can burn with multiple fuel types, even automotive gasoline. Take note however that the fuel bottle itself is not included and would either need to be owned already, or purchased separately here.
Two other options that could be considered are by Jetboil. Each have their benefits but do require a specific fuel type. For some this is preferable because they prefer the simplicity of one specific fuel type to get.
Jetboil with cup – Check it out here
Ultralightweight option – Check it out here
Water Filtration
Even more important than food is water. Being that you cannot carry in nearly as much water as will be required for an overnight or multi-night camping trip, being able to have clean water is a must. That is what makes a good water filtration system such a great gift. Widely regarded as the best solution to clean water, the Katadyn gravity water filtration system is the way to go. It is fast, effective, and is also compact and lightweight – making it perfect for this type of camping. You can find it here.
LifeStraw is another option that could be considered, but is better as a backup to the Katadyn gravity bag for obvious reasons. It still makes a good gift idea though. You can find it here.
Navigation and Communication
Navigation and communication while on long backpacking trips in the mountains or deep forests are both very important.
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a great GPS tracker and two way satellite communicator that gives peace of mind to both traveler and at home family members. inReach Mini 2 https://amzn.to/4ggLP4s
The Garmin eTrex 10 is an exceptional GPS navigator that is highly reviewed. Garmin eTrex 10: https://amzn.to/4fm3Ugr
For a wearable navigation and tracking solution, the Garmin Instinct 2 is a great option. It has access to navigation satellites and solar charging. Which, depending on the mode the watch is being used in, can give the user an endless battery life. You can find it here: https://amzn.to/4iEraZK
Some useful or cool ideas
The Agawa foldable bow saw is a great idea for guys that like to go on rugged backpacking trips or want a good emergency backup tool for collecting firewood or building a shelter if the need arises. It is considered the best in the business. Lightweight and compact, it takes up little space. Find it here: https://amzn.to/404ffxn
Charging devices such as phones and flashlights are also an important thing to consider on longer backpacking trips. This makes battery power banks a great gift idea for men who like to get away from civilization for a few days. I looked into a few different reasonably priced compact solar options and they just don’t seem to be far enough along yet to be practically good. So I would recommend a traditional charging bank or two.
The Nitecore NB1000 seems to be the favored option from the blog posts I have read comparing battery banks. The Gen 2 would be my recommendation as it does offer both USB and USB-C ports. You can get it here: https://amzn.to/41DCqzz
However, if you know for a fact that USB-C is all that is needed, the Gen 3 is available and is slightly upgraded. It does also include a USB to USB-C adapter if they don’t mind one extra cable. You can get the Gen 3 here: https://amzn.to/4gDzqaO
Some guys are okay with sleeping directly on the ground to save space and weight. For those that don’t however, a good, compact sleeping pad is a great gift option you could consider. You can get this PowerLix here: https://amzn.to/4iLqQs9
Gifts for the less extreme campers
For those who are looking for more of the traditional camping experience of driving in and not being restricted by weight, here are some great gift ideas.
Camping Stove
The Coleman camping stove is amazing! I have used it on countless trips from the time I was a young boy camping with my dad, until now with my wife. I have had for years now and it has never failed me. It is easy to set up/take down, stores easily, and cooks very well. I have been blown away by how long a fuel bottle lasts and how hot it gets. Highly recommend it.
Our exact model: https://amzn.to/41KOkYi
Model with built in ignitor https://amzn.to/3P3oLud
Their three burner model: https://amzn.to/4gC6aAZ
Coolers
Regardless of whether having a bear proof cooler is actually necessary for the camping they will be doing, most men dream of getting a Yeti cooler. Just knowing that, should they encounter a bear, their food will be safe, is enough. Aside from some maybe… unnecessary features, YETI is considered to be a top of the line cooler and any guy that is into the outdoors would be elated to receive one.
- YETI 45: https://amzn.to/4fj0db7
- YETI Tundra with wheels: https://amzn.to/41X6jv5
Some guys however go to the opposite camp and refuse to enter into the YETI club. Preferring the classics like Coleman or IGLOO. In which case, here are two good options.
- IGLOO BMX 72qt: https://amzn.to/4gHg9VZ
- IGLOO Marine Ultra with wheels : https://amzn.to/4gATRoH
Rest and Relaxation
While camping is an adventure and does take some work, there is an element of it that men go to relax. What better way to relax than in a hammock or reclining camp chair.
Nap away the stress with this hammock: https://amzn.to/41Fr8uO
Sure to leave other buddies jealous, this rocker is the Cadillac of camping chairs: https://amzn.to/3OZghUQ
For those who want to truly recline without the need of getting into a hammock, this zero gravity chair is a slam dunk:https://amzn.to/41DFGL9
Power Stations
For situations where they have the ability to drive to their camping location, but might not have power at said location, a Jackery power station is a phenomenal idea! Off grid camping while still having a power source. It is also a great backup if they live in an area with more frequent power outages.
- The Explorer 300 would be my recommendation: https://amzn.to/4gHicJk
- With solar charging panels: https://amzn.to/4iKOeWI
- Or if they need more power, the Explorer 500: https://amzn.to/401hRvR
- With the optional solar charging panels: https://amzn.to/4foUPDx
Gadgets and Luxury Items
These are by no means camping necessities but make for great gifts!
A Blackstone grill: https://amzn.to/49MgVif
A Blackstone grill table: https://amzn.to/4frXuMw
Tent fan and light combo: https://amzn.to/404kAVn
More for those who like to go on hikes while camping, a personal fan would be a cool gift: https://amzn.to/3BEzh8c
This is by no means an exhaustive list but hopefully these give you some ideas you can go off of. As a disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on an Amazon affiliate link on this site and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products that I genuinely believe in and think will truly be good gifts. Many I have personally bought or been gifted and use myself. Thank you for supporting me through your purchases!