24 Sustainable Gear Picks for Outdoor Lovers (Great for Gifts, Too)

Sustainable outdoor gear and gift ideas

We’re sharing our favorite gear picks for the eco-conscious outdoor enthusiast.

What we love about the products below are not only how they perform but the brands behind a mission to create sustainable outdoor clothing and gear.

Responsible consumerism is one of the top ways we can all contribute to helping our planet. We are big on supporting ethical brands and think it is important.

This post contains affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you. This allows us to continue publishing free travel and gear guides. Please read our full disclosure for more information.

How We Decided What Made the List

As a consumer, choosing ethically sourced products makes a significant impact on the planet. But, we aren’t only talking about the environment. We are talking about the people that physically work to create products.

Responsible consumerism isn’t just about organic cotton and recycled fabrics — it goes much deeper.

Some (but not all) things to look for while shopping for ethical products include:

  • Recycled Materials: Is the product made with recycled materials?
  • Brand Social Responsibility: How does the brand treat its employees? Does it participate in carbon-neutral programs?
  • Product Sustainability: How is the product made? Was the product made to last a long time?
  • Product Warranty: Does the brand repair gear for free?
  • Animal Welfare: Were animals tested in the creation of the product?
  • Fair Trade: How are international workers and partners treated? Fairly? Safely?
  • Organic Materials: How is the material (cotton) grown, created, and sourced?

With that said, below are some of the top ethical outdoor brands with sustainably made products for camping, hiking, and outdoor adventures.

1. Patagonia Women’s Nano Puff Jacket ($239)

patagonia-womens-nano-puff-jacket

The Nano Puff is made from 75% recycled materials.

The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket can be used year-round. You can wear it as a light layer to keep the chill off your skin, or use it as an insulating layer during the winter. The versatility of this jacket makes it a top pick on our list.


2. Patagonia Men’s R1 Fleece Pullover ($139)

patagonia-mens-R1-fleece-pullover

The R1 Fleece is made from 93% recycled polyester and is Fair Trade Certified.

The R1 Fleece Pullover is a perfect outer layer to wick moisture and keep you warm while running errands, hiking, backpacking, snowboarding, or camping. You can wear a light shirt underneath it for causal wear, or as a layer during the colder months.


3. Rumpl Blankets ($75+)

rumple-original-puffy-recycled-blanket

Rumple is a Certified B Corporation. The company uses recycled plastic bottles to create synthetic insulation and polyester in their original puffy blankets.

It is the perfect addition to any camping setup. Please note colors vary seasonally.


4. Hydro Flask 32 oz ($44.95)

hiking-water-bottle-hydroflask

Hydro Flask products are built to last a long time. Their overall business model is to get people to stop using plastic bottles and paper cups.

We have had one of their water bottles for 10 years and can attest to the product’s quality.

Reusable water bottles are perfect gift ideas for outdoor lovers, too.


5. America the Beautiful Pass ($79.99)

America the Beautiful Pass - 2024/2025 | From REI

The National Park Service was created to conserve natural and cultural resources for current and future generations’ enjoyment, education, and inspiration.

Getting or gifting the annual America the Beautiful Pass supports the National Park Service’s mission.

Visiting parks is a great way to travel, get outside, and support locals communities.


6. Cotopaxi Cubos Del Dia Travel Cubes – Set of 3 ($50)

Cotopaxi Cubos Del Dia Travel Cubes - Set of 3

These travel cubes are made from repurposed nylon and mesh.

They are excellent for compressing items for road trips, overnights, and airplane travel.


7. Kula Cloth Reusable Antimicrobial Pee Cloth ($20)

kula-pee-cloth

The Kula Cloth contains organically grown fibers.

This little cloth gets almost straight 5-star ratings for those not wanting to tote dirty toilet paper around in the backcountry — I always hike with mine. It is an essential product for ladies to have.

It makes for a unique gift, too.

Watch our hilarious gear review on TikTok.


8. Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L ($159)

patagonia-black-hole-duffel-40L

The bag is made from 100% recycled fabric, lining, and webbing.

The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L is water-resistant. It is the perfect duffel for weekend trips, road trips, and camping. The 40L can be used as a carry-on when flying.

This is my go-to bag for two or three day trips.


9. ENO DoubleNest Hammock ($74.95)

ENO DoubleNest Hammock

ENO is committed to planting two trees per purchase and donating 1% of their sales to environmental nonprofits.

A hammock is the perfect gift. Hang it on the porch, at camp, or the local park for a chill weekend.


10. Vuori Performance Joggers for Women ($94)

vuori-performance-jogger

Vuori is Climate Neutral Certified and has committed to using 80% sustainable materials in their products.

The performance joggers are perfect for lounging around the house, walking the dog, and running errands. These are a go-to for me and wash well.


11. BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern ($79.95)

biolite-lantern

No batteries are needed for this portable light source.

It charges via a USB-A charge out port for those nighttime camping and backcountry adventures.


12. Teva ReEmber Slip-Ons ($80)

teva-reember-slip-ons-womens

The Teva ReEmber slip-ons are made from recycled materials.

These slips-ons are the best for hanging out around camp or even working from home. These are a go-to house shoe for me.

The bright colors are so fun. Colors vary seasonally.


13. Good To-Go Dehydrated Camping Meals ($25.75+)

good-to-go-weekender-pack

Good To-Go products are hand-made in Maine, USA. There are no preservatives and they are big on providing “real food.” The brand offers vegan and gluten-free options, too.

Get the camper in your life Good To-Go. All you have to do is add water.


14. Patagonia Women’s Retro Pile Fleece Vest ($129)

patagonia-womens-retro-pile-fleece-vest

This vest is made with 100% recycled polyester. It is Fair Trade Certified.

It is a practical layer for chilly seasons, and the sherpa fleece look never goes out of style. I take mine camping or to walk the dog.


15. Sunbum Mineral Sunscreen Stick ($13.50)

sunbum-mineral-spf-sunscreen-stick

Sunbum is made in the USA. This sunscreen stick is free of paraben, PABA, chemical sunscreens, dyes, silicone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate.

The 1.6 oz sunscreen stick slips into a bag easily and is not greasy. It truly is an outdoor essential — I always have one in my bag.


16. Jade Harmony Yoga Mat ($79.69)

Doing yoga at home on the Jade Yoga Mat
Doing yoga at home on the Jade Yoga Mat.

Jade Yoga mats are made from all-natural and eco-friendly materials. They are made from natural rubber, with no ozone-depleting substances or PVC. The brand plants a tree for every yoga mat purchased as well.

Jade Yoga offers the best slip resistance yoga mats on the market (in my opinion).

By the way, I’m wearing my Vuori performance joggers in the photo.


17. Dr. Bronner’s Biodegradable Soaps ($3.85)

Dr. Bronner's Organic Liquid Soap - Travel Size

Dr. Bronner’s is made from all-natural ingredients. The pure-castile liquid soap is organic and Fair Trade Certified.

The soap is gentle on the environment and is practical for camping and backpacking. Not only are the four ounce containers great stocking stuffers, they travel well for camping and rafting trips.


18. Kavu Rope Sling Bag ($60)

kavu-rope-bag-hiking-bag

Since 2013, KAVU has been working on sustainability initiatives in their offices and how they source materials.

If you are looking for an eco-friendly way to carry your belongings, check out the their rope sling bag.

This bag is made from durable materials that will stand up to the day’s adventures. Plus, the rope design gives it a unique look. Take it on a short day hike, or use it as a purse.


19. Fits Socks ($25)

Ashlee & Pablo taking a hiking break sitting on the rocks.
Wearing our Fits Socks hiking.

FITS socks are made in the USA using merino wool.

FITS socks will send your other socks packing. They are soft yet durable for hiking, skiing, and any other outdoor activity. If you haven’t tried them yet, you’re missing out.


20. FlipFuel Fuel Transfer Device ($35)

flipfuel-fuel-transfer-device
FlipFuel device.

Do you hate packing half used gas canisters on backpacking trips like we do? Then check out FlipFuel’s genius fuel transfer device. We think this is an incredibly cool device for minimizing space on backpacking trips.

Watch the gear review on Instagram.

Use code HAPPINESSFXN at checkout to get 20% off.


21. Yeti Mug ($30)

camp-coffee
Pablo drinking coffee at camp.

For those ready to stop single use containers, the Yeti Mug is another excellent product to have.

It can be used every day for all liquids. Take it to work, take it camping, or use it while hanging out in the backyard around a fire. The insulated mug keeps beverages hot or cold.

Pair it below with the OXO Outdoor French Press for the perfect set.


22. OXO Outdoor Campground French Press 2.0 ($25.95)

OXO Campgrounds French Press 2.0

The OXO Outdoor French Press is made from 50% recycled content.

It is shatterproof. Making coffee at camp is one of the best parts of camping. This French Press is the perfect addition to any camp kitchen setup.


23. Patagonia Black Hole Mini Hip Pack ($35)

rei-patagonia-hip-pack

The Black Hole Mini Hip Pack is made from recycled materials.

For only being 61 cubic meters, this hip pack is perfect for travelers and outdoorsy people. Toss in your phone, some chapstick, a few snacks, and it will be your go-to.


24. Grayl Water Filter and Purifier ($99.95)

grayl-water-filter

Say goodbye to buying bottled water.

The Grayl water filter and purifier is great for anyone on the go. Not only is it excellent for camping, you can take it hiking or on international trips. The Grayl filters out viruses, protozoa, particulates, and more.

I took mine hiking in Scotland. It was perfect.



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Ashlee Fechino

Ashlee Fechino is an outdoor recreation and travel writer sharing the best-kept secrets that aren’t in your typical guidebook. Her goal is to inspire people to travel with a sense of adventure by sharing hidden gems across the U.S. and beyond. She is married to an expat Argentine, Pablo. They camp in their Aliner often and love wandering the world. Follow their latest adventures on Instagram @thehappinessfxn.

10 Comments

  1. Shelly on December 3, 2021 at 2:02 pm

    We love looking for new sustainable gift ideas thanks!



  2. Jennifer Record on December 2, 2021 at 2:08 pm

    love this post! I completely agree with quality over quantity.. I have purchased some of the Patagonia items listed here, but have not seen the shampoo/conditioners.. ordering!



    • Ashlee Fechino on December 2, 2021 at 3:21 pm

      Hi Jennifer – Patagonia makes such great products and we love their business model. Hope you like the Dr. B soaps. The mint feels good after hiking all day.



  3. Renee on December 2, 2021 at 5:06 am

    I’m a big fan of my Patagonia Nano Puff as well as my husband, best jacket ever. I love how packable it becomes for travelling too.



    • Ashlee Fechino on December 2, 2021 at 3:20 pm

      Renee – thanks for sharing. It is one of my favorite jackets, too!!



  4. Alaina Thomas on December 1, 2021 at 10:19 pm

    These are some great ideas! I don’t have a Hydro Flask water bottle, but I do have a Yeti. I use it ALL the time and take it with me just about everywhere. Also, I bought the America the Beautiful pass for a long cross-country road trip, and it saved me so much money!



    • Ashlee Fechino on December 2, 2021 at 3:19 pm

      Hi Alaina! The America the Beautiful pass is such a deal if you’re going to more than four parks a year. Thanks for sharing your travel story with us. We love Hydro Flask AND Yeti, too!



  5. Krista on November 24, 2021 at 4:13 pm

    Those slip on shoes look so comfy! I always love reading about sustainable travel products!



    • Ashlee Fechino on November 25, 2021 at 10:12 am

      The Teva ReEmber slip-ons are so awesome! You need a pair. Haha. Thanks for reading and commenting.