Five Star Gift Ideas

For a son who enjoys hiking and completing long-distance trails, there are numerous gift options that can enhance his outdoor adventures. Here are a few ideas to consider:

1. Hiking gear: Upgrade his gear with essentials like a quality backpack, waterproof and lightweight hiking boots, a durable tent, a compact sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a sturdy water bottle. Investing in high-quality gear will make his hikes more comfortable and enjoyable.

2. Trail snacks and meals: You can assemble a hiking gift basket with his favorite energy bars, trail mix, dehydrated meals, and lightweight cooking equipment. Alternatively, there are subscription services available that send monthly or quarterly snack boxes specifically curated for hikers.

3. Hiking guides and maps: Help him discover new trails and plan his next adventure by gifting him guidebooks and detailed maps of famous long-distance trails or specific regions he may be interested in exploring. These resources can provide inspiration and valuable information for his future hikes.

4. Hiking app or GPS device: Consider gifting him a subscription to a hiking app or a handheld GPS device. These tools can help him navigate unfamiliar trails, track his progress, and provide safety features such as emergency alerts and trail updates.

5. Outdoor photography equipment: If your son enjoys capturing the beauty of nature, consider gifting him a high-quality camera, a durable tripod, or a GoPro camera for recording his hiking experiences. Help him preserve and share his memories with these photography tools.

6. Hiking-related books and documentaries: Inspire his wanderlust and keep him motivated during the off-season by gifting him books and documentaries about hiking adventures, outdoor survival, or stories of renowned long-distance hikers. This can provide entertainment and fuel his passion for hiking.

7. Outdoor education courses or workshops: Purchase a voucher for outdoor education courses or workshops related to hiking and wilderness skills. These courses can offer your son opportunities to learn new techniques, safety tips, and navigation skills, while also connecting him with fellow hikers and building his knowledge.

8. National Park Pass: If your son enjoys hiking in national parks, consider purchasing an annual pass that grants him access to various parks. This gift not only encourages him to explore more national parks but also supports conservation efforts.

9. Hiking-themed clothing and accessories: Look for clothing items such as moisture-wicking base layers, lightweight jackets, and quick-drying pants specifically designed for hikers. Additionally, consider gifting him accessories like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, a headlamp, or a multitool for his hikes.

10. Personalized hiking journal: Give him a personalized journal to document his hiking experiences, thoughts, and reflections. This gift not only serves as a memento of his outdoor adventures but also encourages him to reflect on his personal growth through hiking.

Remember, the most important aspect of choosing a gift is to show your thoughtfulness and understanding of his interests. By selecting a gift that aligns with his passion for long-distance hiking, you are not only acknowledging his hobby but also supporting and encouraging his love for the outdoors.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”