Photo courtesy of Featured Friends
With December well underway, the countdown to holiday gift gifting season has officially begun. Out of fresh ideas for 2022? We test a lot of gear throughout the year as Expedition Portal editors and have carefully curated this over $100 list of gifts for the adventurer in your life. Whether you’re putting together your own wish list or buying for others, we hope this guide provides some helpful solutions for the 4WD enthusiast, adventure motorcyclist, overlander, or bikepacker in your life. Don’t miss our 2022 Under $100 Overland Gift Guide for more top-notch gear and gift ideas.
For the 4WD Enthusiast
Dometic Go Compact Camp Chair
Having used this chair almost daily for the last year, we can confidently say that this is one of the best camping chairs we have ever used. Lightweight and well constructed, the Go chair is very comfortable, without the frills which encumber many camp chairs. Made from heavy-duty 600D fabric, lightweight aluminum, and beechwood armrests, the Dometic Go Compact camp chair accommodates up to 280 pounds of overlander. The chair folds compactly and fits easily into a packing bag. This chair is made to last and, while a bit pricey, will likely last a few years. (GB)
$150 | dometic.com
Makita Outdoor Adventure Cordless Fan
Unless you live in Florida or the Southern Hemisphere, buying a fan in December may seem silly, but many spend winter months preparing and outfitting their vehicles for summer adventures. A fan can be the difference between comfort and misery when camping in the heat, and this one utilizes the same battery packs you likely already use around the house, garage, and workplace. The Makita fan features two speeds (and will run for up to five hours on the low-speed setting), a three-stage automatic timer, and, unlike most fans, a slim profile, ideal for packing and storage. The only drawback to the narrow construction is the absence of a swivel function. (GB)
$116 (battery and charger not included) | makitatools.com
Boxo KOH Off-Road Tool Bag and Tool Set
The Boxo USA KOH Off-Road tool bag and tool set is designed for those traveling outdoors, weighs a mere 31 pounds, and contains professional-grade tools with a no-hassle limited lifetime warranty. The tool bag includes an 80-piece metric tool set, including a 61-piece tool roll, five removable tool bags containing pliers, hammers, a pry bar, a tire repair kit, electrical test kit and repair items, and a universal bag for your other favorite items and tools. The tool bag and roll are stitched from high-quality Cordura nylon to ensure your tools stay organized and rattle-free, with extra functionality offered by an external MOLLE webbing system. With the addition of your vehicle-specific tools, this compact tool bag may be as useful at work or in your garage as it would be on the road. (GB)
$595 | boxousa.com
Coleman 1900 Collection 3-in-1 Propane Stove
This stylish propane stove is portable and great as a built-in camper cooker. The cover is lockable via a heavy-duty latch and incorporates moderate wind guards, which are, in some situations, preferable to large wing-type wind guards. The two-burner cooker is complemented by a flat cast iron grill and griddle accessories, which means you can travel with one less frying pan. Achieve precise temperature control of both adjustable burners via dedicated knobs which deliver up to 24,000 total BTUs of cooking power, while a rotary ignition switch allows matchless lighting. The only drawback of this stove is that it is designed for use with a disposable propane can, but the good news is that adapters are available for this stove to run off a sizable refillable propane bottle. (GB)
$230 | coleman.com
For the Adventure Motorcyclist
VSSL Camp Supplies Kit
.
.
This indestructible tube by VSSL Camp Supplies weighs 1.32 pounds yet carries 70 essential items, from hiking survival gear to help with wrenching the bike. The waterproof military-grade aluminum canister measures just over 9 inches with a 2-inch diameter and serves as a four-mode LED flashlight (with SOS mode) or a Suunto KB-14 mechanical compass on either end. Inside, mini tins are filled with lifesaving gear like a fire starter, waterproof matches, rope, a razor and saw, a 1-liter water bag, a 4-hour candle, a whistle, a can opener, and fishing gear. A compact first-aid kit offers bandages, antiseptic wipes, safety pins, wound closures, and tape. The kit provides enough essentials when creative engineering and lifesaving measures are needed. (MT)
$145 | vsslgear.com
Mosko Moto Woodsman Enduro Pant
Mosko Moto’s most popular enduro pant, the Woodsman, suits any terrain. Whether the rider in your life lives for single-track, open deserts, gravel roads, touring on the tarmac, or more arduous terrains, this riding pant is as comfortable as it gets. The materials are stretchy, soft, and breathable, yet strong and durable, with Schoeller waterproof material on the knees and seat. The pant features two large and two small zippered pockets so your rider can store everything from his wallet to his maps. This riding pant is designed to fit inside the boot and stretches easily for maximum mobility. Inventory runs out quickly, so don’t wait to order. (MT)
$329 | moskomoto.com
Innovv K5 Motorcycle Dash Cam
This is one of those gifts that might initially seem expensive but could save thousands in the long run. It’s also one a rider might not buy in lieu of other moto accessories, but there are many reasons to install dash cams like the Innovv K5 on your motorcycle, including crash documentation (yours or another motorist’s), legal liability, and finally, to record the fun! This cam provides its riders with an added layer of protection. The Innovv shoots in full 4K definition video and offers dual-band WiFi for fast file transfers and a parking mode that monitors your bike while away. The dash cam is paired with the Sony 8-megapixel sensor on the front, which produces footage at 30 frames per second. (MT)
$458| innovv.com
Feathered Friends Flicker UL Quilt Sleeping Bag
There’s nothing as frustrating as being stuck in a mummy bag on a hot night or not being wrapped well enough on a freezing night. Weighing just 19.1 ounces, this compact goose-down Flicker UL Quilt sleeping bag by Feathered Friends functions as either a quilt or a mummy bag. On colder nights, zip up in this 950+ fill power down. On warmer nights, it opens to cover two adults. It’s water-resistant and made with breathable Pertex Endurance fabric. The good news is that this bag comes in 40°F, 30°F, and 20°F options, and because it offers dual drawcords, you can wear it right out of your tent. The bag also features webbing loops for use as a hammock under the quilt. The bag does not come with a hood, so you might want to toss a wool hat into the gift bag as an added accessory. Comes in regular and long sizes. (MT)
$489 | featheredfriends.com
Boogear Women’s Winter Waterproof Pants
.
I tested Boogear Women’s Winter Waterproof Pants during last year’s heavy snow, and for the money, these durable pants cannot be beaten. Since they’re waterproof, they’re good for any activity in the snow, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, sledding; you name it. Available in short, medium, and tall, the ankle side zips allow these pants to be worn in or out of boots. The stretch in these pants is also super comfortable, and the waterproof coating repels water, snow, and barriers against the wind. Best of all, the pants fit like a glove, are lined with fleece, and offer multiple pockets and an adjustable elastic waistband—perfect for the outdoor girl in your life. (MT)
$120 | boogearoutdoor.com
For the Overlander
Mountain Hardwear HiCamp Fleece
Though well-known in the mountaineering and rock climbing worlds, Mountain Hardwear also makes excellent clothing for everyday adventures. I’ve been wearing the HiCamp fleece for the past three months and have barely taken it off. It’s kept me cozy and warm, from chilly desert evenings to cold winter days in Colorado. It’s a full-zip sherpa fleece sweater with a hood, two hand pockets, and two zippered chest pockets. The high-pile fleece is softer and more insulating than traditional fleece, and the full zip makes this layer extremely versatile. It’s warm enough to wear as your only layer on cool days, and the cut lets you layer underneath when the temperature drops. It comes in cool patterns and some great solid colors, too. (SS)
$150 | mountainhardwear.com
Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boots
Blundstones are ubiquitous these days, and for good reason. These boots toe the line between functionality and style. They’re as comfortable as your favorite slip-on shoes and go on just as easily, but they’re endlessly more protective. Before buying a pair for myself, I assumed everyone was wearing Blundstones primarily for style, but the reasons for the ubiquity go far beyond fashion. These are the only boots I’d wear all day: on the road, on a hike, and at the taphouse afterward. The leather upper protects from the elements and is soft, so it feels broken in out of the box. The soles give excellent traction, are long-lasting, and provide more cushion than you’d expect from a leather boot. These might not be the most protective boots you’ll ever wear, but they’ll probably outlast those lace-up boots, and your feet will be happier, too. (SS)
$220 | blundstone.com
Topo Designs Mountain Gear Bag
The Topo Designs Mountain Gear Bag has become my go-to bag for every trip. Not only is this a cavernous haul bag for multi-day trips, but it also has some exceptional organizational features that make it stand out. It’s easy to load, and the top zipper closure can be rolled back and secured with toggles if you want this to function more like a tote. If you need the rugged security of a duffel, simply zip the top flap shut. It has interior mesh zipper pockets to stay organized and two large exterior pockets, each big enough to fit a pair of shoes. I like to keep my muddy trail shoes in one of these pockets and my dirty clothes in the other. Topo Designs bags come with a lifetime warranty against defects, and they also have a program to repair their bags after the wear and tear of everyday use. You’ll be using this bag for years to come. (SS)
$150 | topodesigns.com
All-new Kindle (2022 Release)
The all-new Kindle is here with some notable upgrades, including an extended battery life, 16 GB of storage capacity, and an upgraded 300 ppi high-resolution display. Although battery life varies per user, this Kindle generation offers a single charge via USB-C that lasts up to six weeks. A glare-free paper-like display and adjustable front light and dark mode allow users a pleasurable reading experience during the day or night. Finally, the 2022 Kindle was designed with sustainability in mind and uses 30 to 75 percent recycled plastics and 90 percent recycled magnesium. While I would love to bring a pile of books on my next adventure, the Kindle’s space, weight, and budget savings are hard to beat. Plus, unlike a tablet, this reader provides a convenient escape from those pesky emails and text messages. (AG)
$100 | amazon.com
Fujifilm Instax Wide Link Smartphone Printer
Although there’s something special about developing a roll of film, it can be challenging and expensive and doesn’t offer the spontaneity of printing photos on the go. This tiny Fujifilm Instax printer allows users to print 3- x 5-inch photos, polaroid style, from their smartphone. With over 30 editable templates and various creative printing modes, printing your favorite images from your phone camera roll can be fun, quick, and easy, with no fuss or pressure to get the shot. The printer connects to your smartphone wirelessly via Bluetooth and requires downloading a free Instax Link Wide app. Note that film is sold separately. (AG)
$150 | instax.com
Offroam Magnetic Wireless Charging Phone Mount
A collaboration between Offroam and Peak Design, this wireless, custom-built charging phone mount is specifically designed to fit Ford, Jeep, Ram, and Toyota vehicles—no drilling or gluing required. The mount clamp is CNC machined with black anodized and laser-engraved aluminum, a molded silicone protective liner, and black oxide stainless steel hardware, resulting in a strong and secure mount that is quick to attach and removable with just one hand. MagSafe-compatible magnets hold your smartphone in place, and the mount’s small footprint prevents visual road obstruction. The mount does require a Peak Design phone case, which is sold separately. I’ve been pleased with the Offroam phone mount in our 1990 Toyota Pickup, so I imagine this wireless version is also a winner. (AG)
$121 | getoffroam.com
Women’s Fjällräven Övik Nordic Sweater
Scandinavians know how to embrace short winter days. They light candles, enjoy a glass of mulled wine, and get cozy, keeping warm with knitted wool sweaters. Fjällräven’s Övik Nordic sweater features 100 percent traceable, ethically produced wool and a ribbed neckline, cuffs, and hem. Elbows are reinforced with G-1000 Eco (densely woven fabric featuring Greeland wax), and the print is simple but incredibly cute. Traditional Scandinavian fishermen’s sweaters inspire the pattern, and the wool (composed of 65 percent polyester and 35 percent cotton) wicks moisture and warms, even when damp due to a jacquard knitting pattern, which binds air for optimum insulation. (AG)
$195 | fjällräven.com
For the Bikepacker
Moon Meteor Storm Pro
The long dark evenings are upon us, which means being seen and seeing ahead is imperative. Moon’s Meteor Storm Pro offers up to 2,000-lumen brightness, 160-hour max runtime, and 4-hour charging time and weighs just 7.3 ounces. In addition, it features eight modes, dual beam angle, light mode memory, IPX 5 water resistance, a quick-release helmet mount, side visibility, and more. I’ve owned a wide range of bike lights, but anything comparable to this output and runtime traditionally required a bulky external power pack. I own two Meteor Storm Pros and have used them non-stop for the past couple of years, including several longer bikepacking rides, and I simply cannot fault them. (JM)
$150 | moon-sport.com
Wahoo Elemnt Roam Wireless GPS Cycle Computer
This lightweight computer (3.3 ounces) has more functionality than you could ever ask for and is the perfect companion for daily commutes, weekend adventures, or bikepacking odysseys. Key features include pre-loaded maps (including North America, Europe, Asia, Oceania, and South America), GPS navigation with turn-by-turn prompts, a 17-hour battery life, 2.7-inch color display, 32-gigabyte memory, and smartphone connectivity with dedicated Elemnt App. In addition, the computer offers integration with Live Track Portal, Supersapiens Glucose Monitor, Ant+ Radar Integration (displays real-time proximity of vehicles approaching you from behind), Specialized Angi (if it detects a crash, it will begin countdown on Wahoo display), and much more. In short, there are simply too many benefits to list, but if you’re looking for a bicycle computer that will do-it-all, look no further. (JM)
$350 | wahoofitness.com
Carsick Designs The 1 Three 7 Bag
Bikepacking has produced innovative bicycle luggage, such as frame bags, seat packs, handlebar systems, and more. While these products keep gear secure, they’re often highly compressed and make access on the go difficult. Alternatively, Carsick Designs has utilized the venerable bicycle basket to create a durable bag that showcases generous internal volume and easy one-handed access. The 1 Three 7 is handmade using durable outer materials and is lined using 400 Denier Pack Cloth. The bag is designed to fit a 137 Wald Basket and is secured using two side buckles for seamless installation or removal. If you require additional ties or security, you’ll find bar-tacked webbing strips integrated into the bag for peace of mind. (JM)
$110 | carsickdesigns.com
Selle Anatomica H2 Leather Saddle
It’s a common misconception that the bigger and more padded a saddle, the more comfortable, but that’s simply not the case. Excessive padding will often generate heat, abrasion, and discomfort. After hearing so much hype about Selle Anatomica, I decided to try their H2 model and have never looked back. The H2 is suitable for riders weighing 190 to 250 pounds (choose either the T2 or X2 for lighter riders), and there are chromoly-steel and cast-aluminum models (add carbon rails for an extra $75). Additional features include a full-grain leather top with dual reinforcing laminate layers, Hex Key Tension System, and a patented Flex-Fly slot that relieves perineal discomfort and sit bone pain. I have traveled hundreds of miles with this saddle and have never suffered discomfort. (JM)
$190 | selleanatomica.com
Overland Journal Lifetime Subscription
Photo: Jack Mac
Overland Journal is offering a limited number of lifetime subscription programs for customers in the US and Canada. This subscription will ensure Overland Journal is delivered without interruption for your lifetime and also includes:
- Handmade L.T. Wright knife, including Overland Journal–branded leather sheath ($105 value)
- Overland Journal hat ($26 value)
- Two Lifetime Subscriber decals ($8 value)
By becoming a lifetime subscriber, you will also be helping fellow adventurers, as 5 percent of all sales from this program will support scientific and philanthropic overland expeditions around the globe.
Overland Journal is produced five times annually and includes a Gear Guide, Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter issue. (AG)
$980 | overlandjournal.com
For additional overland gift ideas, check out these Expedition Portal gift guides:
Our No Compromise Clause: We carefully screen all contributors to ensure they are independent and impartial. We never have and never will accept advertorial, and we do not allow advertising to influence our product or destination reviews.