Five Star Gift Ideas

Here are a few ideas for an ultralight backpacking Christmas gift for your son:

1. Ultralight Backpack - A high-quality ultralight backpack is essential for any ultralight backpacker. Look for backpacks made with durable and lightweight materials like Dyneema or Cuben Fiber. Some great options include the Gossamer Gear Mariposa Backpack or the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Windrider Backpack.

2. Lightweight Sleeping Bag - A lightweight sleeping bag is critical for anyone who wants to pack light. Consider a down or synthetic sleeping bag with a high fill power that can keep your son warm in cold weather. Some standout bags include the Western Mountaineering Summerlite Sleeping Bag, the Therm-a-Rest Questar 20 Sleeping Bag or the Big Agnes Lost Dog Sleeping Bag.

3. Ultralight Tent - An ultralight tent can be a game-changer for an ultralight backpacker. Consider getting your son a quality ultralight tent like the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo or the Zpacks Duplex Tent.

4. Pocket Stove - A pocket stove will help your son quickly cook up a warm meal and coffee or tea on the trail. Some great options for an ultralight backpacker include the MSR PocketRocket Stove or the Jetboil Flash Stove.

5. Ultralight Water Filter - It's important to stay hydrated while backpacking, and a water filter is essential for ensuring that your son has access to clean water. Look for lightweight and compact options like the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter or the Katadyn BeFree Water Filter.

6. Portable Solar Charger - A portable solar charger can keep your son's electronic devices charged while on the go. Some fantastic options include the Anker PowerPort Solar Lite Charger or the Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus Solar Panel.

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.”