Whether you're shopping for a camper who has it all or someone taking their first steps into the world of lightweight camping, these Alpkit picks provide the perfect gifts for unforgettable adventures.
Campers are simply a joy to shop for; there are so many items that are guaranteed to spark that signature 'far away' look in their eyes - you know, the one that tells you they've already mentally checked out and pitched out on a remote hillside under the stars.
Whether you're tackling a multi-day backpacking trek or seeking a minimalist weekend escape in the car, having the right gear can make all the difference between a memorable journey and a forgettable slog. That's why I have hand-picked a selection of our most trusted lightweight camping equipment, tested and approved by our starry sky loving staff.
Our top gifts for campers
It starts with tiny homes for fun adventures
The humble tent is fundamental to camping adventures and our Soloist Tent is a timeless, sleek design with concealed features that enhance its utility and protection against the elements. For those who tread where tents dare not go, the Elan Hooped Bivvy and Hunka Bivvy bag provide a snug, minimalist sleep systems that offers warmth and comfort in a compact, lightweight package. Let's dive into the aspects of each.
Soloist Lightweight Tent - for backpackers and bikepackers
Stable in bad weather, light and quick to pitch. Sleeping one (possibly with a furry friend), the Soloist is the perfect tent if you want to get rid of your other half over the holidays. Its semi-geodesic structure is stable in bad weather with a useful porch space for stashing your kit. It is a perfect tent for backpacking or bikepacking adventures.
Elan Hooped Bivvy Bag - with integrated hoop and waterproof, breathable outer
Perfect for the minimalist adventurer, the Elan Hooped Bivvy Bag takes low-profile camping to the next level with its integrated hoop design. This feature slightly raises the fabric above your face, offering more room and comfort without compromising the bivvy's compact nature. Crafted from a weather-resistant fabric that repels water and breathes to minimise condensation, this bivvy bag offers the stealth and protection needed for solo expeditions.
Hunka Bivvy Bag - Lightweight and packable
If the Elan offers too much comfort you can look to the Hunka Bivvy Bag, a deceptively simple yet highly effective camping shelter. Designed to cover a sleeping bag, it shields you from wind, rain, and snow, effectively extending the range of your sleeping system. Made from a lightweight, durable material that packs down incredibly small, it’s the secret weapon for any adventurer looking to reduce weight while maximising functionality.
Sleeping comfort you can carry
Whisper Sleeping Mat - Insulated and Ultralight
When I did DofE the only choice was a closed cell foam mat. These were light, but bulky to carry and not terribly cushioning. What I would have given for a Cloud Base Sleeping Mat! It ensures a warm and comfortable night's sleep even on cold ground. Its ultralight construction makes it an ideal choice for those who travel far and want to avoid carrying heavy gear, yet require the comfort that allows them to recover from a day's trek.
Cloud Cover camping quilt
A delightfully multifunctional sleeping bag that redefines the genre. Cloud Cover can actually be used as a traditional sleeping bag, opened up as a quilt, tucked under you in your hammock or attached to another quilt. It is techy as well - filled with the same performance hydrophobic goose down found in our other sleeping bags. Another common use is to use it to upgrade your existing sleeping bag. By taking a modular approach it can compliment what you have already and provide extra insulation for the winter.
Covert Comfort: clothing that's secretly technical
Our choice of clothing isn't just about gear that stands up to the elements; it's also about clothing that packs a punch with hidden, high-performance features. The Hayling Tee, Woodsmoke Shirt, Kraft Trousers, and Keeshond Fleece are staples for any outdoor wardrobe, blending classic styles with secretive technical properties to enhance your outdoor experience without being brash. Here’s how each piece works behind the seams, and why they are great choices for gifts to keep any camper in the camping zone:
Hayling Tee - Moisture-wicking comfortable t-shirt
At first glance, the Hayling Tee appears to be a simple, stylish t-shirt, but it harbours a moisture-wicking secret. Crafted from a blend that includes performance fibres, soft and secretly technical, Hayling is made with 96% natural based sustainably sourced Rayon fibres.
Woodsmoke Shirt - featuring hollow core fibres for insulation
We call the Woodsmoke Shirt an innovation in mountain shirts. Made from ThermoTech® polyester with hollow core fibres that trap more air to give you more insulation. It has a higher warmth-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal mid layer for chilly nights around the campfire. The Woodsmoke has become the teams go to winter shirt and should be yours to.
Keeshond Fleece - A wolf in sheeps clothing
The Keeshond Fleece offers an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, providing substantial insulation without the bulk typically associated with warm outer layers. This makes it an ideal choice if you are looking to layer your clothing, which incidentally we fully recommend when camping in winter. The fleece's subtle, textured appearance gives a hint of its thermal capabilities, making it a sophisticated choice that secretly serves as a powerful barrier against the cold.
Kraft Trousers - legwear that meets the demands of the camp chores
Kraft Trousers are the ultimate in stealth durability. Designed with reinforced stress points and a stretch fabric that accommodates a full range of motion, these trousers are built to withstand the rigours of climbing, scrambling, and trekking without hindering your movement. The trousers’ low-key appearance disguises their robust build, making them just as suitable for a casual day out as for a demanding trail.
Our most desirable camping accessories
From the multifunctional Lhfoon Titanium Spork to the powerful Juice Holder Powerpack, these accessories are designed to provide you with the convenience and efficiency needed for any adventure. Start your frosty morning right with a hot brew from the MyMokka. Paired with the Refresher 500, a flask that keeps your coffee hot for hours, these are ideal for the friend who believes a day without coffee is a day wasted. Illuminate your campsite with the Tyndall Lantern, and keep your gadgets charged with the Juice Holder Powerpack. This duo ensures that longer nights in the wilderness are bright and connected, perfect for the tech-savvy adventurer.
Drift camping pillow
Camping pillows have gotten cool! Now there is no reason to pack your bedroom pillow or suffer your neck with a folded fleece. Drift is super lightweight and inflates with a couple of puffs. Use it camping or to prop your head up on long journeys in the car. Its soft, washable face fabric is ever so luxurious and will convert even the gnarliest lightweight camper. The gift you didn't know you wanted, and the gift you will never want to camp without.
Lhfoon Titanium Spork - Ultra-Durable and Lightweight Design
Perfect for the all-in-one eater! The Lhfoon Titanium Spork is a marvel of minimalist design, combining the functionality of both a spoon and a fork in one durable, ultra-light package. Made from titanium, this spork resists bending and breaking under use, ensuring that whether you're stirring hot soup or twizzling spaghetti, you have a reliable tool that's easy to carry on any journey. This lightweight, durable spork is a camper's best friend.
MyMokka - Portable Espresso Maker
Perfect for the discerning coffee lover MyMokka isn’t just a coffee maker; it’s a portable espresso device that brings luxury coffee to the most remote locations. Compact and easy to use, it requires no electricity, using instead a simple hand-pump mechanism to extract rich, flavorful espresso. It’s perfect for those who refuse to compromise on their morning brew, even in the wilderness.
Refresher 500 Flask - Thermal Retention for Hot and Cold Beverages
The Refresher 500 Flask goes beyond just carrying liquids; it ensures they stay at the desired temperature for hours on end. Keep your coffee hot on a chilly morning hike or your iced water cool in the summer, this flask maintains the temperature of your drinks, providing hydration and comfort whenever you need it.
Tyndall Lantern - Multi-Functional LED Lighting
Perfect for the night owl camper - the Tyndall Lantern is more than just a source of light; it features adjustable settings to cater to different needs, from a bright, wide-angle light for cooking or setting up camp, to a soft, ambient glow for relaxing at night. It’s USB rechargeable, and its durable design makes it suitable for both hanging in a tent or standing on a table, providing versatile illumination options for any campsite.
Juice Holder Powerpack - High-Capacity Charging
Perfect for the tech-savvy explorer, the Juice Holder Powerpack is an indispensable accessory for the modern outdoor enthusiast. With its high-capacity battery, it can charge multiple devices multiple times over, ensuring that you stay connected even in remote areas. Its robust, weather-resistant exterior makes it safe to use in various outdoor conditions, providing peace of mind that your devices will remain charged no matter where your adventures take you.
Gift with confidence
Every gift in this selection has been thoroughly tested by our team of outdoor enthusiasts. We know a thing or two about the demands of lightweight camping, which is why everything comes backed by our Alpine Bond guarantee - we stand behind the quality and durability so you can focus on pitching with confidence. With our 123-day returns policy, there's plenty of time to ensure each gift is welcomed into its new home. You can return or exchange your gifts online or in any store.
What if you still can't choose?
Our hand-picked camping essentials have been chosen from our extensive range of products for campers, bikepackers and backpackers. If one of these hasn't ticked your boxes, or you are buying for someone else and getting tied up in jargon, just hop on to the live chat at the bottom of the page, or visit one of our stores for more expert advice.
Gift Cards - For when you are struggling to find that perfect camping gift
If, even after all of these great ideas, you are still struggling to put your mouse on that perfect present, our gift cards come to the rescue. We have physical gifts cards you can send to your loved ones, an Alpkit Foundation Giving Card and an e-Gift Card for when time has got you beat. These can be redeemed online or instore.
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