Presented by the Slinky Stove Collapsible Firepit
In this gift guide, I’ll be sharing 15 gift ideas pertaining to bikepacking, hiking, general fitness, and overlanding. These are products that I actively use in the field and believe will provide meaningful value to fellow adventurers. Those who follow me online (@bicycle_touring_apocalypse) will know that I live for the outdoors (heck, when this goes live, I’ll be bikepacking in Crete, Greece), and this obsession with wild places is reflected in my suggestions. Each item is designed to get you or a loved one outside and will enrich the experience when doing so. Finally, these are gifts that keep on giving and will enhance outdoor excursions for many years to come.
Whether you’re treating yourself or a special someone, remember that the greatest gifts cost nothing at all. Whether that’s checking in on a loved one, making plans with friends/family, offering your time to a charitable cause, or simply listening. As cliché as it sounds, love is all we need.
Bedrock Sandals Cairn Evo Pro
Kicking of this gift guide is Bedrock Sandals. I purchased my first pair back in 2019, and I’ve worn them almost daily since. They’re undoubtedly the most versatile and comfortable footwear I own and have become a permanent addition to my pack list whether I’m biking, hiking, overlanding, or simply running errands. The Cairn Evo Pro features a premium polyester and nylon webbing upper, patented G-hook-and-loop heel and front strap system, minimalist/flat footbed, and a Vibram Megagrip sole (re-soleable). If you’re looking for the ultimate do-it-all footwear, then look no further.
$130 | Learn More at Bedrock
Decathlon Cross Training Fitness Rings
This year I picked up a set of affordable Decathlon Cross Training Fitness Rings in a bid to maintain upper body strength when travelling. The rings weigh just 3.7 pounds and take up little room inside my rig, yet provide a rigorous workout. They’re suitable for pull-ups, dips, muscle-ups, ring rows, and much more. They feature a 24-centimeter-diameter wood handle, steel buckles, and an adjustable 13-foot polypropylene webbing. I’ve enjoyed strength training since my teens and worked out in every gym imaginable, but these rings are the only equipment you need.
$38 | Buy similar from RPM at Huckberry
Big Agnes Zetto UL Jacket
The Zetoo UL joined me on more than 20 Norwegian peaks during 2024 and unequivocally earnt its place in my gift guide. The ultra-lightweight (7-ounce) compressible jacket is designed to perform as both a mid- or outer layer and features YKK Vislon Slim zippers, two interior drop-in pockets, and exterior zipped pockets. In addition, it incorporates the company’s Signature Diamond Quilting and is insulated with premium 850 PFC-free water repellent down. Whatever the conditions, I always pack the Zetoo (compresses into its built-in stuff sack) when heading into the mountains as a precautionary measure, since it’s ultra-lightweight and provides impressive warmth.
$350 | Shop at REI Learn More at Big Agnes
Jetboil Flash Cooking System
The Flash cooking system remains one of the best backcountry stoves on the market and boils water in under 100 seconds. It was the only cooking solution I brought on the road this year, and I used it to prepare water for hundreds of meals and drinks. It incorporates a 1-liter FluxRing cook pot with an insulating cozy, convenient push-button igniter, and it’s compatible with Jetboil’s accessory ecosystem (including the coffee press, hanging kit, pot support, skillet, and more). It’s super easy to clean, lightweight, and takes up little space when stored. Whether you’re looking for a backup cooking system on the road or a backcountry stove, the Jetboil is a great choice.
$130 | Shop at Backcountry
Sealskinz Extreme Cold Weather Gloves
I bought my first pair of Sealskinz Extreme cold-weather gloves over a decade ago for bikepacking, mountaineering, and general outdoor use, and they’re still functional to this day. Last year, I treated myself to a fresh set ahead of a sub-zero bikepacking ride in Abruzzo, Italy, and once again, they proved indispensable. The gloves integrate Fusion Control, which is a technical, open-mesh bonding process that ensures waterproofness, insulation, and breathability. Additional highlights include the Primaloft Gold Bio insulation, soft merino wool lining, and a sheepskin leather palm for a lasting grip. Finally, the polyester and elastane outer is stretchy, which minimizes impact on dexterity.
$90 | Buy at REI Learn More at Sealskins
Watershed Ocoee Dry Bag :: Gift Guide
I bought a Watershed dry bag after hearing and reading countless testimonials from hardcore kayakers and canoers. I entrust the IP68-rated Ocoee to protect my camera equipment while sea kayaking, and it has never let me down. It’s manufactured using a polyurethane-coated fabric that features an exceptionally strong and grippy coating of Watershed’s Kryptothane Plus (an 840-denier nylon base). Fabric meeting points are double- or triple-layered and welded using high-pressure radio waves. Additional attributes include a ZipDry closure, carry handles, lash points, and multiple compression straps. The Ocoee is offered in a range of colors and is compatible with various Watershed accessories.
$159-233 | Shop at Watershed Shop at Backcountry
Hoka Speed Goat 6 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoes
I’m a keen runner and have clocked thousands of miles in various footwear, but Hoka’s Speed Goats have outperformed and outlasted all of them. Disclaimer: there’s not one size fits all when it comes to running shoes, but these have enabled me to run further and more regularly injury-free. The latest iteration weighs just 10.6 ounces and features 100 percent recycled polyester mesh, a Gore-Tex Invisible Fit waterproof membrane, Vibram Megagrip sole with a Traction Lug outsole, 5-millimeter lugs, and a molded EVA sock liner. These trail running shoes are a great option for those who seek scenic routes away from the pavement.
$170 | Shop Hoka at Backcountry
Slinky Stove in Small, Medium, and Large
From our presenting sponsor, the Slinky Stove is a stainless steel collapsible, smokeless firepit available in 7″, 17″, and 25″ diameters. Each size collapses to 3″, 5″, and 6″ tall, respectively, for compact storage. In its shortest position it’s a campfire ring, the medium setting is good for cooking over coals, and the tallest position allows for a larger fire and maximum heat output. Legs fold out from the bottom and the expanded levels are secured with a lift and twist to engage the locking mechanism. The Slinky Stove comes with a storage bag, a grate for grilling, and a stainless lid to convert the stove into a table or create a secure platform for the legs on soft surfaces.
$69 / $139 / $175 | Choose Your Slinky Stove
F Stop Gear, Loka 37L Ultra Light Camera Pack
All of my photography gear is focused around outdoor adventures, which is why I chose the F Stop Gear Loka. This bag has been used and abused almost daily yet remains functionally perfect (I was so impressed that I purchased the larger Sukha for multi-day excursions). The 37-liter pack is bursting with features, including an internal aluminum frame, carry handle, built-in compression straps, a hip belt with zipper pocket, adjustable sternum straps, side mesh pockets, and is compatible with various ICUs (internal camera units). Crucially, it’s designed for “very physical adventures,” and after hundreds of miles in the mountains with the Loka, I can attest to this.
$240 | Buy Now at F-Stop Shop F-Stop at B&H
Selle Anatomica H1 Saddle :: Gift Guide
The Brooks B17 has traditionally been my saddle of choice, but since 2019, I’ve predominantly used a Selle Anatomica H1. Unlike the former, the latter is comfortable out of the box and requires little to no break-in time. I’ve ridden big mileage on my H1 both at home and abroad, and it consistently delivers all-day riding comfort, whatever the conditions or terrain. The saddle is made in San Diego, California, and showcases a patented Flex-Fly Slot (relieves perineal discomfort and sit bone pain), hex key tension system, fore/aft adjustability, and is designed for riders between 180-250 pounds.
$199 | Shop Selle Anatomica
Komoot Navigation Subscription
Another entry in my gift guide is a Komoot subscription; a navigation tool designed to “allow everybody to better find, plan, and live authentic outdoor experiences.” It’s a fantastic app for planning or downloading hiking, cycling, or running routes worldwide and has also helped me enjoy new adventures closer to home. Highlights include a huge library of routes tailored to your favorite sport (easily filtered by difficulty, duration, accessibility via public transport, and more), turn-by-turn navigation, offline maps, and the possibility to save and share your routes. It’s also the only route planning app that supplies inch-by-inch surface, way type, and elevation analysis in the planning panel, which ensures no surprises en route.
$60 (billed annually) | Learn More at Komoot
Peak Design Carbon Travel Tripod
I bought the Peak Design travel tripod because the quality, ergonomics, and attention to detail are outstanding. Unsatisfied with traditional offerings, the company spent four years reimagining the tripod to create something that packed down to the diameter of a water bottle without compromising on performance. It’s available in alloy (3.44 pounds) or carbon (2.81 pounds) and provides ergonomic adjustment points, built-in mobile compatibility, an Arca-compatible standard plate, a mobile mount, hex tool with carrying clip, and bushing removal tool. Crucially, it’s 100 percent serviceable and backed by a lifetime warranty.
$380-600 | Buy Peak Designs at B&H
Oveja Negra Royale Hip Pack (Wack Pack)
Passion, creativity, and wholesomeness are just some of the words I’d use to describe the team behind Oveja Negra. Every handmade product is of exceptional quality, and the Royale hip pack is no exception. The Wack Pack variant is significant as it reflects the company’s commitment to protecting the environment and is manufactured using random mismatched cuts of fabric, webbing, and hook and loop. It showcases a simple/durable roll-top closure, zippered interior stow pocket, side compression straps, high-density closed cell foam reinforced hip wings, Duraflex dual adjust waist buckles, a padded and breathable mesh back, and reflective logo.
$110 | See More at Oveja Negra
Durston X-Dome 1+ Tent
The tent market is saturated, so it takes something decidedly special to stand out. To this end, I consider Durston’s X-Dome 1+ an industry benchmark. This one-person tent weighs just 34.7 ounces yet provides an impressive 23 square feet of floor space, 42 inches of interior height, and a 9.2-square-foot vestibule. Set up is seamless as the fly, inner, and poles all extend to the same four points, so you can pitch in any order. It’s 100 percent free-standing without the need for cords, guylines, or stakes (the latter is recommended). Finally, the price is very reasonable.
$369 | Shop Durston
Thermarest Honcho Poncho for Kids
The Honcho Poncho is an insulated, water-resistant, and packable kids’ poncho and blanket in one. It features eraLoft insulation, which stays warm even when wet, a waterproof breathable shell, and a kangaroo pocket with a top zip pocket. It will fit most 5-10 year olds and, when not in use, packs conveniently into its own zip storage pocket. It’s a great way to keep kids warm on the road or at camp, with the added bonus that if they take a nap, you can simply release the snaps under the arms to turn the poncho into a cozy blanket.
$60 | Buy at REI
Overland Journal
This gift guide presents items I stand behind and believe to be worth your investment. To this end, I’ll conclude with the Overland Journal. I’m grateful to be part of this wonderful team and witness the meticulous attention to detail and love that goes into every issue. Published five times per year, it provides 136 pages of stories, reviews, and photography from around the world that seeks to inspire and educate. Time is life’s most precious currency, and we strive to create a publication that’s worth yours. Lose yourself in the Overland Journal, and in the words of J.R.R Tolkien, “there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.” Use code 25OFFADVENTURE from December 4 – January 2 to get 25% off everything in your cart, including merchandise.
$65 | Shop Overland Journal
Read more:
Holiday Gift Guide
Thanksgiving Gift Guide
Black Friday Gift Guide for the Overlander in Your Life
Expedition Portal’s Last Minute Gift Guide
Overland Gift Guide :: 15 Gifts Over $100 For Your Favorite Overland Adventurer
Overland Gift Guide :: 15 Affordable Overland Gifts Under $100
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