Gift Considerations for the Outdoorsy One

Pondering what to get yourself or someone on your list that is outdoorsy? Here are six

recommendations from Blissful Hiking:

A three-in-one jacket – while a bit heavy for ultralight backpacking, a three-in-one jacket is great for the outdoorsy type who may find themselves in all kinds of weather. The liner zips out so that you have three jackets for any kind of weather – a rain parka, a fleece jacket, or a combination of the two for those cold, wintry days in the woods. Check outdoor websites like Backcountry.com, Sierra Trading Post, REI, etc. for the best deals (I recently found a Columbia brand jacket for half price).

You can’t go wrong with good quality hiking socks. For example, I’ve been trying out the new Ecosox – made of bamboo (!) and had found them terrific for outdoor use. On several extended day hikes I had no blisters, no stink. They proved durable and washed well. From the manufacturer: “…

the spun bamboo viscose fibers make Ecosox ultra soft, moisture wicking, odor resistant, and help prevent blisters.” They are reasonably priced also. (Update) I discovered after only a few weeks use they developed holes in them. The durability for long term use is questionable.

A Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter – this is THE thing for filtration among backpackers. Whether using the mini that can attach to your drinking system such as the Platypus or Camelback or the regular size, these on-the-go water purifiers are great for making sure water is safe to drink.

Anything Cuben Fiber – Check the Z Packs site for the one who may have everything but is looking to lighten their load. Z packs has a whole line of cuben fiber type gear, great for those looking to cut out extra ounces from their bags, packs, liners, etc. but with the durability and water resistance you expect from a good fabric. I used my pack liner from Z Packs in a pouring rain and all the contents remained bone dry. That makes for one happy hiker.

A Lifeproof Case – most are going to a cell phone for all things phone, music, and camera-wise on the trail. Make sure to protect the investment with a waterproof and bombproof case like this one. But avoid the imitations sold on other websites and buy from reputable places (we got ours at Best Buy).

How about investing in a backpacking course that can offer ideas on backpacking, gear, food, first aid, safety, and more? We are holding a backpacking seminar here through Blissful Hiking. What a

great way to make a happy hiker by offering to pay his or her tuition to this great one day seminar for only $45! Or treat yourself and a friend or spouse? Check it out and see the great reviews from last year's participants. Registration is now open but seating is limited. If you want to give this as a gift, we’ll send a card to that special person, announcing your gift of a hiking workshop! Just let us know via e-mail on the registration page that it is a gift, and add in your email the address where to send the special card!