With the holiday season upon us, the quest for the perfect gifts for family, friends, and adventurers has officially begun. Featuring cookbooks and knives, whiskey, shot glasses, and blankets, we hope this under $100 holiday gift guide not only sparks joy but offers suggestions to delight even the hardest to please. Whether you’re shopping for the 4WD enthusiast, adventure motorcyclist, overlander, or bikepacker, the Expedition Portal staff have you covered.
For the 4WD Enthusiast
C6 Outdoor MuthaTucka Blanket
The MuthaTucka puffy blanket is perfect for those cool winter camps. At 50 x 80 inches, it’s long and wide enough for a large mutha. A drizzle and dew water-resistant coating ensures you will stay warm and dry next to a crackling campfire, and the blanket features a built-in 24-inch-deep foot pocket. Available in either gray or our choice, the C6-inspired horizon pattern, this blanket comes with a C6 dry bag for storage and transportation, or you could leave it in the tent. The MuthaTucka is made of 30D ripstop polyester and features 3D hollow-fiber siliconized synthetic poly insulation (240 GSM). (GB)
$85 | c6outdoor.com
Opinel No.08 Knife with Lanyard
A legendary, handmade French knife for less than $20? Yes, please! The Opinel No. 08 is the knife upon which the company’s empire was built—stylish, compact, razor-sharp, with a lockable blade, this knife is a perfect everyday carry. The No. 08 boasts a 12c27 stainless steel blade just under 3.5 inches long, with an overall length just shy of 8 inches, and weighs a mere 1.6 ounces. The handle is available in various colors, the most popular being the classic beechwood handle, but we could easily be tempted by the red, dark brown, or “le khaki.” The knife is delivered in a stylish wooden “coffin,” perfect for wrapping. (GB)
$18 | opinel-usa.com
Ultimate Ears WonderBoom 3 Portable Speaker
I (Graeme Bell) have traveled with a UE Boom Bluetooth speaker for the last seven years, and despite all the rigors of overland travel, the speaker still works today as it did when new. Incredible! The WonderBoom 3 sneaks in at $100 ($99.99) but makes this list as you get a lot of bang for your buck. The compact speaker is ideal for overland travel as it is dust and water-resistant (the Wonderboom 3 can be submerged for up to thirty minutes) coupled with a robust drop-proof construction that can withstand most 5-foot drops. With 40 meters of wireless range and a 14-hour battery life, the Wonderboom 3 will keep the tunes and podcasts coming while you are busy around camp or enjoying a fire with friends. PSA, if your camp neighbors can clearly hear your music, it is probably too loud. (GB)
$100 | ultimateears.com
Wavian Jerry Can
Few items evoke the spirit of adventure like a green or khaki jerry can. Merely sitting in the corner of the garage, the humble jerry can looks ready for action. Tough, dependable, and timeless, it needs no introduction and no improvement. Available in red for gasoline, yellow for diesel, and blue for kerosene, these leak-proof steel fuel cans come directly from the same manufacturer that has supplied many NATO countries for over 75 years. Features include 0.9-millimeter steel walls, an interior rust-proof Rezol lining, an internal breather pipe for splash-proof pouring, a leak-proof bayonet closure, and a locking pin for the cap. The three-handle configuration is for easy carrying, either solo or with a helper. (GB)
From $80 (not available in California) | wavianusa.com
For the Adventure Motorcyclist
Bigfoot Bushcraft Extra Thick Ferro Rod + Steel Striker
Matches get wet, and lighters don’t last, so if you want to give your camper, hiker, motorcycle rider, or adventurer a gift that will perform time and time again, consider Bigfoot Bushcraft’s Extra Thick Ferro Rod + Steel Striker. When inclement weather strikes, creating fire from their half-inch diameter rod is a spark away. This quick and easy tool is compact, lightweight, and fits anywhere, providing 12,000 strikes for 5,400 sparks. It weighs a mere 4.3 ounces and is wind and waterproof. Comes with a travel pouch and emergency nylon paracord. (MT)
$20 | igfootbushcraft.com
Matador FlatPak Toiletry Case, Soap Bar, Toiletry Bottle, and Shower Towel
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Carrying hygiene essentials is a breeze with lightweight, high-function Matador Flatpak products. These leakproof cases are created with Cordura fabric, a proprietary coating that repels water and dries quickly. That means toothbrushes and razors will dry inside the 2.25-liter zippered toiletry pouch, and nothing will leak. The pouch weighs just under an ounce and expands to fit your travel essentials. Soap bars dry right through the material and never get mushy. The 3-ounce toiletry bottle offers a wide mouth for easy pouring, and the full-size NanoDry shower towel is super absorbent and luxurious to the touch. The towel dries rapidly and folds easily into a compact silicone carrying case. It’s the perfect lightweight and compact set for the hiker or motorcycle adventurer in your life. (MT)
$30/toiletry case, $14/soap bar case, $14/toiletry bottle, $35/shower towel | matadorup.com
Deja Blue Just Ride 5 Base Layer
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Made by women for women, Just Ride 5’s newest addition to its collection of base layers is a trendy blue and checkered cafe racer-styled shirt designed for both comfort and warmth. Wrap your moto lady in luxurious style that offers moisture-wicking and UV protection. The long sleeves feature thumb holes to keep cuffs in place, and the shirt is created with an extended torso for maximum coverage where it’s needed most. This base layer is silky to the touch, designed with quality materials and construction, and is created with a zipper garage to prevent chaffing on the neckline. The shirt also comes with a secret zippered stash pocket, perfect for IDs and cash. (MT)
$85 | jstride5.com
For the Overlander
Stillhouse Whiskey
I love drinking whiskey around the campfire in the wintertime, but I don’t love attempting to pick up broken glass in the dark. Stillhouse solves this problem by using a metal can with a thread-on lid. You can bring this anywhere without risking a broken bottle on the rocks; plus, the rugged stainless steel can cool much faster than glass bottles. Throw this in your cooler, and you’ll have chilled whiskey soon, with or without rocks. It comes in several flavors, as well as “original” unflavored whiskey. If you prefer clear spirits, Stillhouse also makes vodka. See where the trail takes you this winter, and bring this whiskey. (SS)
$31 | stillhouse.com
Pale Blue Earth Rechargeable Batteries
At this point, most electronic devices are powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. However, this isn’t the case for every device, and keeping that old headlamp is more environmentally friendly than buying a new one. Pale Blue Earth makes rechargeable batteries to address this. These batteries recharge directly via a built-in USB-C port. A pack of batteries comes with a four-way splitter cable to charge four batteries off one USB outlet. AAA and AA batteries recharge in about one hour, while the higher-capacity batteries take closer to two hours to charge. Buy them in a 4-, 8-, or 12-pack and help ditch disposable batteries forever. (SS)
$25/Four-pack | paleblueearth.com
Decathlon Forclaz Trek 100 Down Jacket
There are many inexpensive down jackets, but the Decathlon Forclaz Trek 100 is surprisingly high-quality, considering the price. I’ve seen a lot of puffy jackets, but most that are this nice cost at least twice as much. It’s filled with RDS Certified (Responsible Down Standard) 800-fill duck down for a great warmth-to-weight ratio. The shell and face material are made from lightweight polyamide with a DWR finish on the shell for weather protection. This jacket weighs less than a pound and packs into the left-hand pocket. It can be used as a travel pillow or easily packed away when not in use and is available in men’s and women’s sizes and various colors. (SS)
$90 | decathlon.com
Hydro Flask Personal Bundle
Keeping drinks warm on those cold mornings at camp feels life-changing. Well, imagine having a double-wall insulated bowl to keep your food warm while you eat it and a plate that never gets too hot to touch from that fresh-off-the-grill food. This kit comes with a 12-ounce cup with a lid, an insulated 1-quart bowl with a lid, a 10-inch plate, and a stainless steel flatware set in a convenient carrying case. This bowl and lid come in handy for storing leftovers without another container, something I always seem to have to do when cooking at camp. Every item has a non-slip powder coating and is made of the same high-quality stainless as other Hydroflask products. (SS)
$75 | hydroflask.com
Mystery Ranch In and Out 22 Backpack
A high-quality, packable backpack should be in every traveler’s kit because you’ll need a bag to carry gear when leaving on day trips. The Mystery Ranch In and Out 22 is the most overbuilt packable backpack I’ve ever used, and I mean that in the best way possible. It’s made of durable Cordura fabric and features high-quality, reasonably sized zippers that’ll outlast small, ultralight zippers. This lightweight bag has the features you’d want when you wear a backpack: contoured shoulder straps with 3D mesh for cushion and breathability, a side water bottle pocket, and two small zipper pockets for items you need to access quickly. As you’d expect, it packs into its small front mesh pocket, but you might not pack this little bag away anytime soon. (SS)
$99 | mysteryranch.com
Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole 1-Liter Mini Hip Pack
The fanny pack is back! Rocked by nearly everyone in the ’90s, fanny packs have undergone a bit of a transformation in the modern day, are smaller in size, and look quite practical for travel. Weighing 3.52 ounces, Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole hip pack is lightweight and stows into its own pocket while not in use. Made from 100 percent recycled fabric, Fair Trade Certified sewn, and with two compartments for organization, this small bag can be worn around the waist or across the front or back of the body. I could easily swap my purse for this pack, storing credit cards, keys, chapstick, hand cream, and an iPhone in the main or front-zippered security pocket. (AG)
$35 | patagonia.com
How a Car Works Video Course
As overlanders, having a basic understanding of mechanics and vehicle anatomy is paramount. But listening to and understanding car talk can be like trying to translate an unfamiliar language. What are the inner workings of a differential or a transmission? This 20-hour automotive engineering video course contains over 122 lessons that explain every part of a car as host Alex Muir dismantles and rebuilds a 2001 Mazda MX5 Miata. A one-time payment gets you lifetime access and a 200-page handbook. This item is on my holiday wish list, so I expect to be well-versed in how braking systems, manual gearboxes, clutches, and diesel engines work in 2023. (AG)
$25 | howacarworks.com
Topo Designs Bandana
A potential stocking stuffer option, this 100 percent organic cotton bandana made by Colorado-founded Topo Designs features a rolled edge finish and custom grid print in various designs, from abstract to campscape. The versatility of a good handkerchief knows no bounds and can be used to protect the face in swirling sand, block your neck from the sun, or tie around the neck, backpack, or head to spruce up an outfit. Use it to clean your sunglasses, wipe your face, or wear it as a headband. The sizing is 21 x 21 inches, and this bandana is safe for machine washing. (AG)
$18 | topodesigns.com
Wild: Adventure Cookbook by Sarah Glover
This coffee table cookbook features full-color photographs and mouthwatering recipes from James Beard Award Finalist Sarah Glover. Spanning 340 pages, the Wild: Adventure Cookbook transports readers to the Australian wilderness and includes tips on preparing food over an open flame, a list of basic outdoor cooking equipment, and how to choose the best produce. Barbequed corn and aioli, morning bagels with smoky pancetta, and a host of fire-cooked seafood dishes look like the perfect complement to a day on the beach with a group of friends. An added bonus: a sweet Defender makes an appearance in the book. Stay tuned; Sarah is currently working on her next cookbook based on the American road trip. (AG)
$50 | amazon.com (currently sold out at sarahglover.shop)
For the Bikepacker
Toaks Titanium Wine Flask and Shot Glass Combo Set
Often, the small creature comforts make all the difference on an expedition. I’m a big advocate of traveling light but make exceptions for items that bring me joy. This Toaks wine flask and shot glass combo set is a great example. I usually fill this small 150-millimeter flask with my favorite Dalwhinnie whiskey and save it for a special camp spot to enjoy with good company under the stars. The flask and shot glasses are made from super lightweight titanium, with the former weighing just 1.55 ounces, and the 30-millimeter shot glasses are a tiny 0.35 ounces each. The flask and glasses include a convenient storage pouch with a drawstring fastening. The total weight is an almost non-existent 2.25 ounces (minus alcohol)—a small price to pay for a nightcap with friends. (JM)
$85 | toaksoutdoor.com
Knog Oi Classic Bike Bell
Whether on an epic adventure, weekend blast, or daily commute, chances are you’ll share roads and trails with other riders, pedestrians, and dogs. Therefore, investing in a bell to alert others to your presence is advisable. Traditionally, bells weren’t exactly cool, but thanks to Knog’s ingenious Oi Classic bike bell, that’s no longer the case. The tasteful design wraps around your handlebar and is just 49 millimeters wide, and a spring-loaded actuator provides a “loud but pleasant” tone that’s an impressive 80+ decibels. The Oi is offered in four colors, and the fitment requires just one hex screw. I bought one of these bells and, after my first ride with it, bought three more. They’re sleek, unobstructive, and produce a clear yet unstartling ring that I’ve found very effective. (JM)
$30 | knog.com
Surly Bikes Wool Beanie
Whether riding on busy roads or hauling down trails, wearing a helmet is imperative. However, during the wintertime, this leaves your head exposed to the icy cold, which often results in luminescent red ears and brain freeze! Sure, you can squeeze a wooly hat underneath, but it’s inevitably super snug and not especially comfortable. A great solution is Surly’s wool beanie, which provides excellent warmth while being thin enough to wear comfortably under a helmet. This one-size-fits-all beanie is made using moisture-wicking Merino wool and is available in two colors. It’s long enough to cocoon your head and partially protects the back of your neck, yet it is easily rolled for the perfect fit. I’ve used this product over the past three winters and can’t recommend it enough. (JM)
$35 | surlybikes.com
Salsa Cycles EXP Series Anything Cage HD Kit
Front panniers have been a staple of long-distance bicycle touring for many years, but they’re not always ideal for bikepacking. The latter often requires hike-a-biking, traversing narrow trails, and navigating technical terrain, which makes bulky front panniers cumbersome. A great compromise is a fork cage and drybag combo, such as Salsa’s EXP Series Anything Cage HD Kit. The cage weighs 0.3 pounds, is constructed of impact-resistant nylon, seamlessly attaches to bottle cage mounts, and is rated to a 6.6-pound cargo weight limit. The accompanying EXP Series Anything Cage Bag features water-resistant 400D nylon and a TPU base, quick-release roll-top closure for easy accessibility, two Hypalon daisy chains for multiple attachment points, and provides 3.35 liters of volume. This is a great option if you’re looking to increase storage on the bike without drastically compromising rideability. (JM)
$68 | salsacycles.com
Overland Journal Subscription or Renewal
Photo: Jack Mac
An Overland Journal subscription or renewal is a gift that keeps giving all year. We produce five high-quality issues yearly, including four seasonal and a Gear Issue that is chock full of reviews and in-depth testing. The magazine is timeless, full of helpful travel tips, inspiring adventure stories, and exceptional photography, and it will be right at home amongst your favorite coffee table books and novels. (AG)
$45 | overlandjournal.com
For additional overland gift ideas, check out these Expedition Portal gift guides:
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