24 Sustainable Outdoor Gifts & Gear (You’ll Want for Yourself)
We’re sharing our top gear picks for the eco-conscious outdoor enthusiast. Check out these useful and practical sustainable outdoor gifts and products that everyone will love. You’ll probably even want to buy some of these for yourself!
What we love about all the products listed are not only how the products 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 mission-critical.
Having quality gear is essential when it comes to recreating outdoors all year round. That’s why we decided to put together a list of our favorite sustainable outdoor gifts and products for adventure lovers.
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Purchasing & Gifting Quality Gear (Over Quantity)
Investing in quality gear staples pays off because you don’t have to buy products over and over that wear and tear easily.
Investing in brands with a quality promise to repair worn gear also pays off for your pocketbook and the planet.
What Is Responsible Consumerism?
If you know what responsible consumerism is, awesome! You can skip this part or forward it to a friend. If you don’t know, we’d love for you to keep reading to find out more. We are so passionate about supporting ethical outdoor brands.
Responsible consumerism means that you, as the consumer, buy products from brands that are environmentally friendly, consider economic impacts, and social impacts during sourcing and creation of their products.
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?
As a consumer, choosing ethically sourced products makes a significant impact on the planet. But, we aren’t just talking about the environment. We are also talking about the people that physically work in international countries to grow and create products.
Responsible consumerism isn’t just about organic cotton and recycled fabrics. It goes much deeper.
With that said, below are some of the best ethical outdoor brands and sustainably made products for camping, hiking, and outdoor adventures!
Sustainable Outdoor Brands Gift & Gear Product Guide
1. Patagonia Women’s Nano Puff Jacket ($239)
The Nano Puff is made from 75% recycled materials. The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket can be used year-round. 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 year-round makes it a top pick on our list.
2. Patagonia Men’s R1 Fleece Pullover ($139)
The R1 Fleece is made from 93% recycled polyester and is Fair Trade Certified. The Patagonia R1 Fleece Pullover is a perfect outer layer to wick moisture and keep you warm while running errands, hiking, backpacking, snowboarding, or camping. The fleece is super handy. Wear a light shirt underneath or wear it as a layer during the winter.
3. Rumpl Blankets ($110+)
Certified B Corporation. Rumpl uses recycled plastic bottles to create synthetic insulation and polyester in their original puffy blankets. The perfect addition to any camping setup. Please note colors will vary seasonally.
4. Hydro Flask 32 oz ($44.95)
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 product quality. Reusable water bottles are perfect gift ideas for outdoor lovers.
5. America the Beautiful Pass ($79.99)
The National Park Service was created to conserve natural and cultural resources for current and future generations’ enjoyment, education, and inspiration. Gifting or getting the annual America the Beautiful Pass supports the National Park Service mission. Visiting National Park Service locations is also a great way to travel locally, get outside, and support local communities.
6. Cotopaxi Cubos Del Dia Travel Cubes – Set of 3 ($50)
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)
The Kula Cloth contains organically grown fibers. Have you heard of a Kula Cloth yet? If not, you might be missing out on a backcountry essential. This little cloth gets almost straight 5-star ratings for those not wanting to tote dirty toilet paper around in the bush. This makes for a unique gift or just an essential backcountry product to have in your bag. Leave No Trace!
Watch our hilarious gear review on TikTok!
8. Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L ($159)
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 trip bag.
9. ENO DoubleNest Hammock ($74.95)
Eno is committed to planting two trees per purchase and donating 1% of sales to environmental nonprofits. A hammock is the perfect gift. Hang it on the porch, at camp, or the local park for a chill Saturday.
10. Vuori Performance Joggers for Women ($94)
Vuori is Climate Neutral Certified and has committed to using 80% sustainable materials in their products. The performance joggers are of the hottest joggers on the market this year. Gift someone soft performance joggers. These are perfect for lounging around the house, walking the dog, and running errands. These are a daily go-to and wash well.
11. BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern ($79.95)
No batteries 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 ($79.95)
The Teva ReEmber slip-ons are made from recycled materials. The ReEmber slips-ons are the best for hanging out around camp or even working from home. These are a go-to house shoe. The bright colors are just so fun. They come in both men’s and women’s sizes. Colors vary seasonally.
13. Good to Go Dehydrated Camping Meals ($8.60+)
Good To-Go products are hand-made in Maine, USA. There are no preservatives. The brand offers vegan and gluten-free options. They are big on providing real food. So get the camper in your life Good to-Go. Just add water!
14. Patagonia Women’s Retro Pile Fleece Vest ($129)
Made with 100% recycled polyester. Fair Trade Certified. A practical layer for all seasons. And, the sherpa fleece look never goes out of style. Get the Patagonia women’s Retro Pile Fleece Vest.
15. Sunbum Mineral Sunscreen Stick ($13.50)
Free of paraben, PABA, chemical sunscreens, dyes, silicone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. Sunbum is made in the USA and contains recycled materials. The 1.6 oz sunscreen stick slips into a bag easily and is not greasy. Truly a hiking and outdoor essential.
16. Jade Harmony Yoga Mat ($84.95)
Made from all-natural and eco-friendly materials. Jade Yoga mats are made from natural rubber, with no ozone-depleting substances and no PVC. Jade Yoga offers the best slip resistance yoga mats on the market. The brand plants a tree for every yoga mat purchased.
17. Dr. Bronner’s Biodegradable Soaps ($3.85)
Dr. Bronner’s is made from all-natural ingredients, organic, and is Fair Trade Certified. The pure-castile liquid soap is gentle on the environment and is practical for camping and backpacking. Not only are the 4 oz containers great stocking stuffers, they travel well for the outdoor enthusiast.
18. Kavu Rope Sling Bag ($60)
Looking for an eco-friendly and sustainable way to carry your gear? Check out the KAVU rope sling bag! This versatile bag can hold everything you need, and it’s made from durable materials that will stand up to the day’s adventures. Plus, the rope design gives it a rustic and unique look. Since 2013, KAVU has been working on company sustainability initiatives in their offices and how they source materials.
19. Fits Socks ($22.99+)
Made in the USA with American craftsmanship and merino wool. FITS socks will send your other socks packing! They are super soft yet durable for hiking, skiing, and any other outdoor activity. If you haven’t tried them yet, you’re missing out.
20. Flip Fuel Fuel Transfer Device ($35)
Do you hate packing half used gas canisters on camping trips like we do? Then check out FlipFuel’s GENIUS fuel transfer device!
It is easy to use. All you have to do is put the canister you want to add gas to in the freezer (or in the shade of your backpack). Place the canister you want to transfer gas from in the sun and wait 5 minutes. Then, thread the canisters onto the FlipFuel device and open the valve – and voila! Now you have one full gas canister to save space.
We think this is also an incredibly cool device for minimizing space for backpacking trips.
Watch the gear review on Instagram!
Use code HAPPINESSFXN at checkout to get 20% off!
21. Yeti Mug ($25)
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!
22. OXO Outdoor Campground French Press 2.0 ($25.95)
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. The OXO French Press is the perfect addition to any camp kitchen setup.
23. Patagonia Black Hole Mini Hip Pack ($35)
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 outdoor enthusiasts. Toss in your phone, some chapstick, a few snacks, and it will be your go-to.
24. The North Face ThermoBall Eco Insulated Jacket ($210)
The North Face ThermoBall Eco-Insulated Jacket is made from 100% recycled content. It packs down into the size of a pocket, making it an excellent travel jacket. The ThermoBall jacket can be used for hiking, camping, and everyday wear. It is great for wearing alone as a stand alone jacket or as a layer. The North Face is a great option for sustainable outdoor products and gifts.
The End
We absolutely love all of the brands listed above as well as the products.
We hope this sustainable outdoor product and gift guide helps you select the most epic gifts and gear that you and your loved ones can use for many years to come.
Thanks for reading.
Ashlee & Pablo
Read More Gear Guides
- 25 Best Camping Items To Buy on Amazon
- Camping Gifts: Cool Gift Ideas That Make Happy Campers
- Exactly What To Wear Hiking For Everyone
- Jackson Riviera Kayak Review: Specs, Features, and More
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We love looking for new sustainable gift ideas thanks!
Thanks for reading!
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!
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.
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.
Renee – thanks for sharing. It is one of my favorite jackets, too!!
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!
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!
Those slip on shoes look so comfy! I always love reading about sustainable travel products!
The Teva ReEmber slip-ons are so awesome! You need a pair. Haha. Thanks for reading and commenting.