Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to let your partner know just how much they mean to you, but buying gifts for outdoor lovers is notoriously difficult since they often cherish experiences more than “things”. To help shorten your search, we’ve compiled a list of the best adventure gift ideas for your outdoorsy loved ones - you might even want to snag some of these for yourself too!
A National Parks Pass is a delight for adventurers. The Annual National Parks Pass costs $80 and is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, including the 58 National Parks across the country, for 12 months. For more information on the pass, visit the National Parks Pass Information site.
If a National Parks trip is on your Valentine's itinerary, check out our trips to the Olympic National Park, North Cascades National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. You can also read our guides to Zion National Park, Joshua Tree National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park and plan your own trip.
Outdoor gear makes for great gifts, but Adventurers are often particular about the gear they want and need. With this in mind, we’ve selected some of the most reliable and functional outdoor essentials that are adventure-worthy gifts for all budgets.
Essentials
It's hard to go wrong with the essentials as everyone needs them and even if your valentine already has the item you gift, they can always use the extras
Waist pouch (or Fanny pack) - These are the latest craze and a convenient, hands-free way to carry the essentials. Perfect for quick hikes, the multiple storage pouches allow just enough space for just what you need without feeling bulky. We love getting ours from environmentally conscious brands like Cotopaxi.
Sunglasses – A long day spent outside can result in significant sun exposure. A pair of high-quality, polarized sunglasses to keep their eyes safe and protected while hiking is one of the most useful gifts for outdoor lovers. Some of our team members, including our founder, have lately been digging the ones from Goodr.
Blanket - A warm blanket is an excellent gift for outdoor lovers to keep them warm and comfortable when camping or spending evenings outside. If you haven’t already come across the ones from another PNW based company, you must absolutely check out Rumpl.
Socks – Hiking socks are great companions to keep your feet warm and comfy on any trail. There are so many brands you can buy but the one that have managed to keep up with all the adventuring our team does are Darn tough.
Warm base layer – Every outdoorsperson needs a solid set of base layers. They will keep you warm even when your outer layer gets damp. If your valentine is or identifies as a woman, we highly recommended Kari traa, who we love for making sportswear for girls!
Warm gloves – Adventurers will surely appreciate these as a gift. They’ll keep your hands warm and snug. Check out some amazing ones from a black owned business Sierus.
Other than the essentials, these are some of the most loved pieces of gear that will work regardless of whether your Valentine identifies as a man or a woman. They are sure to put these to use.
Multi-tool – This handy tool is also a lifesaver for adventurers who don't want to buy bulky tools to weigh down their pack. One brand tried and tested by our team that we can recommend is Leatherman.
Portable hammock - A hammock is a unique gift for outdoor lovers. There’s no better feeling than setting up your hammock between two tall trees and relaxing with someone you love! We love the ones by Eno. Do check out their Double Nest which would be perfect for a valentines day out in the woods or by the beach!
Portable coffee maker -There’s no better way to welcome a crisp morning and start your adventure other than with a cup of coffee. Coffee-loving adventurers will surely appreciate this gift. Check out this cool one by Aeropress.
Water bottle - Once you have your coffee sorted, you’ll also need a tumbler or flask to keep it hot for you. We never get tired of promoting our other fellow Pacific North West based business. But they also make amazing stuff. In case you already haven't tried them out, get a Hydroflask mug or flask and experience the difference it makes to keeping your drinks hot or cold.
For those of you who have a gadget junkie for a girlfriend or a boyfriend, here are our top picks. They sure are pricier but sure to win the heart of that special someone.
Instant Camera – Capture priceless moments with the nostalgia of an instant camera. We love the INSTAX range from the iconic brand Fujifilm.
Action Camera - For those of you into action sports, get your valentine a GoPro so they can get all the cool action footage of you…we mean of both of you ;)!
Drone - Perfect for adventurers who love aerial photography. DJI has a range of options.
GPS - If you worry about your outdoorsy loved one getting lost or stranded on a hike, a GPS is a useful outdoor gift that will bring peace of mind to you both! We highly recommend the Garmin Inreach Mini
Outdoor Watch – Who doesn’t love a watch for a gift? Most outdoor watches have a compass, altimeter, built-in training apps, and GPS. With Global satellite navigation, this is a great gift for outdoor lovers. Check out the wide range offered by Sunto and by Garmin.
There you have it - our gift ideas for adventurers. Celebrating Valentine's day doesn’t have to equal big grand events. Any treat out of the ordinary can make the day feel fun and exciting.
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