Top 23 unusual camping gifts for outdoor enthusiasts

Hoyle Waterproof Playing Cards 

For the camper who already seems to have everything, these waterproof playing cards are a clever and thoughtful surprise. Unlike traditional decks that easily get ruined by moisture or dirt, this all-weather set is made to withstand rain, spills, and rough conditions — perfect for outdoor use. Whether they’re waiting out a storm inside the tent or relaxing by the lake, this deck ensures that game night goes on, no matter the elements. It’s a fun, practical gift that adds a touch of playfulness to any camping trip—without taking up much space.

Snow Peak Hot Lips

At first glance, a silicone mouthpiece might not sound like the most exciting gift — but for those who regularly sip hot drinks from metal mugs around the campfire, the Snow Peak Hot Lips is a game-changer. This small, lightweight attachment slips onto titanium mugs to prevent burnt lips, making every early-morning coffee or evening tea far more enjoyable. It’s one of those clever little gadgets that seasoned campers didn’t know they needed — until they try it. A smart, affordable upgrade that shows you’ve thought about the details of their next outdoor adventure.

No normal coffee

Finding a gift for a coffee-loving camper can be tricky — especially when they’ve already got the usual gear. That’s where No Normal Coffee comes in: a rich, flavorful espresso packed into a sleek, travel-ready tube. No fancy equipment needed—just hot water and a cup. It’s the perfect pick-me-up for early mornings in the woods or slow starts at the lake. Compact, mess-free, and genuinely delicious, this tube delivers café-quality coffee deep in the backcountry. A clever surprise that proves you really get their love for both caffeine and convenience.

And here, the surprise factor is guaranteed! After all, how often do you see coffee in a tube? Learn more about the chaos packaging trend and other creatively packaged products here.

Bear Town Micro Crew Socks

Socks might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of a thoughtful gift—but they’re one of those everyday essentials that often get overlooked. The Darn Tough Bear Town Micro Crew Socks are made from merino wool, offering lightweight cushioning, breathability, and natural odor resistance. They’re ideal for long hikes or relaxing at camp, and the best part: they stay fresh even after several days of wear. A practical, personal gift—perfect for someone who wouldn’t necessarily buy high-quality socks for themselves, but will appreciate them every time they’re out on the trail.

Rolla Roasters Roasting Forks

Roasting marshmallows and hot dogs over an open fire is a classic camping tradition — and with the Rolla Roasters Telescoping Forks , it’s a whole lot easier (and safer). These extendable forks keep hands safely away from the flames while giving just the right reach to get that perfect golden toast. They might seem like a small gift, but they add real value to any camping setup. Ideal for families, food lovers, or anyone who enjoys a cozy evening by the fire—this is the kind of gear people forget to pack, but are always happy to have.

Snow Peak Titanium Plate

For campers who appreciate functional simplicity, the Snow Peak Titanium Plate is a subtle yet thoughtful gift. Made from ultra-lightweight titanium, it’s built to endure years of use without bending, cracking, or adding bulk to a pack. Whether they’re perched on a rock mid-hike or eating fireside, this plate offers a sturdy, reusable alternative to flimsy paper or heavy ceramic options. It’s the kind of upgrade that makes outdoor meals easier—and one they’ll reach for trip after trip.

Rumpl Beer Blanket 

A cold drink at the campsite hits different—and the Rumpl Beer Blanket makes sure it stays that way. This compact, insulated sleeve keeps your beverage cold while keeping your hands warm and dry. It's lightweight, compressible, and just the right mix of practical and playful. Whether shared around the campfire or enjoyed solo on a mountain ridge, it's a small gift with a surprising amount of charm—perfect for campers who enjoy the little luxuries in the wild.

Sea to Summit Airlite Towel 

For anyone who spends time outdoors, the Sea to Summit Airlite Towel is a true essential. Made from ultra-light microfiber, it absorbs over three times its weight in water and dries faster than you’d expect. It’s perfect for swimming in a lake, quick trail showers, or wiping down gear. Thanks to its tiny pack size and clever attached stuff sack, it fits easily into any backpack and dries on the go when clipped outside. A practical, space-saving gift that’s surprisingly appreciated once it's in regular use.

Max Quick Inflate Solar Lantern with Phone Charger

For campers who value both practicality and atmosphere, the LuminAID Max Quick Inflate Solar Lantern is a smart and versatile gift. It packs flat, inflates in seconds, and provides reliable light for tents, campsites, or even the backyard. The built-in solar panel means it can be recharged during the day — and it even doubles as a power bank to charge phones or other small devices when outlets are out of reach. With its sturdy handle and warm glow, it’s the kind of gear that’s not just useful, but genuinely enhances the camping experience.

E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller

The E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller is a practical gift that shows you’re thinking beyond the obvious. Unlike sprays or candles that need constant reapplying or supervision, this device works quietly in the background — no fuss, no scent, no open flame. It’s especially handy for campers who travel light or set up in buggy areas, and it adds real comfort without taking up space. By giving this, you're not just adding to their gear — you’re giving them uninterrupted evenings outdoors, where they can truly unwind and enjoy the moment.

Sea to Summit Ultralight Pillow

The Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow is one of those deceptively simple gifts that can completely change how someone sleeps outdoors. It inflates in seconds, offers real neck support, and packs down to the size of a fist — making it perfect for backpacking, road trips, or even long-haul flights. What makes it such a great gift? It adds a touch of everyday comfort to the ruggedness of camping, turning a restless night into real rest. It's a small luxury that elevates the whole experience — and shows you’ve thought about their well-being, not just their gear.

BioLite AlpenGlow Mini Lantern

The BioLite AlpenGlow Mini Lantern is more than just a light — it’s a mood-setter in the size of your palm. With multiple color modes and a soft, warm glow, it brings atmosphere to any campsite while still being practical for reading or navigating in the dark. Its compact design, waterproof build, and built-in bungee make it incredibly versatile. A perfect gift for campers who love small gear with big impact—both functional and fun.

Luno Car Camping Fan

This compact, USB-powered fan attaches easily via suction cup to tent walls or car windows, offering instant relief on hot and stuffy nights. It's a thoughtful gift for summer campers or vanlifers, bringing real comfort when temperatures rise—without adding bulk to their setup.

Sea to Summit Clean-Up Kit

Keeping things tidy at camp isn’t always easy—but this kit makes it simple. With a portable basin, dishcloth, and scrubber, it’s perfect for post-meal cleanups. A practical gift that’s often overlooked but always appreciated, especially by campers who enjoy cooking outdoors.

The Bucket List Travel Book 

Packed with stunning photography and inspiring ideas, this book fuels wanderlust and invites adventure. It’s the kind of gift that sparks future trip planning and reminds campers why they love exploring the world in the first place. A meaningful, screen-free source of inspiration.

Weyland Fire Starter Kit 

Reliable fire-starting is a must outdoors, and this kit has everything needed — from magnesium rods to fatwood sticks — for getting a flame going in any condition. A great gift for safety-conscious adventurers, bushcraft enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates gear that works when it counts.

Uno Casa Pie Iron Set 

This cast iron sandwich and pie maker brings a whole new level of fun (and flavor) to campfire cooking. It’s not something most campers would think to bring—but once they do, they'll wonder how they ever lived without it. A creative gift like this shows you’ve really thought about how to make their next trip cozier, tastier, and a little more special

Scrubba Portable Wash Bag 

This clever little bag lets you wash clothes anywhere—no electricity, no hassle. It’s compact, lightweight, and doubles as a dry sack or laundry bag. Gifting this is a way of saying: “I know you love being off-grid, but you shouldn’t have to wear the same underwear for four days.” A practical surprise that adds real comfort to long adventures.

Wekapo Inflatable Lounger

This inflatable couch turns any lakeside, mountaintop, or grassy meadow into a lounge zone—no pump needed. Just swing it through the air and relax. It’s the kind of unexpected gift that instantly adds fun and comfort to a camping trip. And let’s be honest: who wouldn’t love a portable chill-out zone?

NEMO Disco 30 Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag

With its unique spoon shape, this sleeping bag offers unmatched comfort for side sleepers and restless campers. It’s roomy, warm, and built for true rest under the stars. Gifting this shows that you’re not just thinking of the gear — they’ll feel how much you care when they’re actually sleeping better in the wild.

Rumpl National Park Blanket

Soft, weather-resistant, and wrapped in beautiful park-inspired designs, this blanket is perfect for campfires, picnics, or stargazing. It’s more than just practical — it’s personal. Giving this blanket is like saying, “I want you to be warm, comfortable, and wrapped in something that reflects your love for nature.”

Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

This smokeless fire pit brings all the joy of a campfire — without the smoke in your face or the smell in your clothes. Whether at a campsite or in the backyard, it creates an inviting, clean-burning fire experience. It's the kind of impressive gift that says: “You deserve the upgrade.”

Smart Beamer for Outdoor Cinema

Who says the outdoors can’t be cinematic? This compact projector turns tents or camper walls into a movie screen—just plug it into a power bank and press play. It’s a creative gift for someone who already has all the basics and would never expect something like this. A way to bring people together and create shared memories far beyond the ordinary.