Whether you're shopping for a seasoned adventurer, a weekend wanderer, or someone who simply loves the outdoors, finding the right gift can feel as daunting as navigating a trail without a map. That's why we've created this ultimate gift guide to inspire and simplify your holiday shopping. Think of it as a collection of tried-and-true essentials that make every outdoor excursion a little smoother, a little more joyful, and a lot more memorable.
From practical must-haves to thoughtful splurges, these gifts are like the unsung heroes of any adventure - the little things that can turn a good travel day into a great one. So grab a warm drink, settle in, and get ready to check off your list with confidence.
Maven B.3 Binoculars
As a birder, I don’t leave home without my Maven B.3 Binoculars—they’re a must-have for any adventure. With incredible clarity and a compact, lightweight design, these binoculars are perfect for spotting everything from a Lilac-breasted Roller on AGC’s Tanzania Safari to discovering new species in the towering trees of Redwoods National Park.
Built to withstand the rigors of travel, they’re durable enough to handle bouncing around in a backpack or a surprise rain shower. The Maven B.3 strikes the perfect balance between quality and portability, making them an essential companion for wildlife and bird enthusiasts alike.
Thule Packing Cubes
If you're looking to elevate your packing game, the Thule Packing Cubes are a must-have. This durable set keeps your essentials neatly organized and maximizes space, thanks to its thoughtful design and compression capabilities. Made from lightweight yet sturdy materials, the cubes hold up to frequent travel without compromising their integrity.
The semi-transparent fabric makes it easy to find what you need, while the water-repellent finish adds peace of mind for separating damp clothes or protecting items from spills. These packing cubes have earned a permanent spot in my suitcase. With early Black Friday deals, there’s no better time to streamline your travel routine with these packing powerhouses!
Neck Turtle Travel Pillow
Buy Now From Amazon
Don’t let the quirky design of this neck pillow fool you—this travel essential is a game-changer for anyone longing for restful sleep on the go. At first glance, this pillow looks a bit like something you’d wear for physical therapy, but once it's nestled into place, you'll be amazed by how perfectly it cradles your neck and prevents the dreaded head bob. Plus, no post-nap stiffness!” Lightweight, compact, and surprisingly effective, this pillow proves that comfort doesn’t have to come at the expense of style—or sanity—on a long journey.
Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask
Buy Now From Amazon
A sleep mask is an essential accessory for adjusting to time changes or grabbing a quick on-the-go catnap while traveling. The Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask stands out as a top choice for both home and travel. Made from ultra-soft mulberry silk, it offers a luxurious feel while effectively blocking out light. The extra padding provides a gentle, cushioned fit that’s comfortable even during extended wear. With an adjustable strap, it stays securely in place without tugging, making it ideal for long flights or restful nights. Lightweight, compact, and affordable, this sleep mask is a must-have for any traveler or light sleeper.
Apple AirPods Pro 2
Apple AirPods offer a calm and collected travel experience with their sleek design and noise-canceling capabilities, reducing sensory overload in noisy airports by muffling announcements and background noise. They pair seamlessly with Apple devices, providing instant connectivity and a long battery life that lasts through flights and layovers. The compact charging case ensures easy portability, while their versatility—whether for calls, playlists, or meditations from apps like Insight Timer - makes them a valuable and versatile travel companion.
Gregory Jade 28L Backpack
The Gregory Jade 28L is a lightweight and comfortable backpack, ideal for hiking adventures. Loved by AGC travelers, it features a women-specific fit with an adjustable harness system and multiple sizes for all-day comfort. Its durable internal frame efficiently distributes weight, making it perfect for carrying gear like binoculars and rain gear on both short hikes and lightweight overnight trips. Combining ergonomic design with versatility, the Jade 28L is a reliable choice for any trail.
Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L Suitcase
The Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L is a versatile bag that combines the spacious capacity of a suitcase with the portability of a backpack. Ideal for adventure travel, it features oversized wheels for smooth rolling and deployable backpack straps for added convenience. With a durable frame and smart compartments, it keeps essentials organized and accessible, whether navigating cobblestone streets or tight spaces on flights and ferries. Perfect for those seeking reliability and functionality on their next adventure.
Cotopaxi Todo 2L Hip Pack
The Cotopaxi Todo 2L Hip Pack is a travel essential I never leave home without. Perfectly sized for the necessities, it keeps my passport, wallet, and phone secure and easily accessible—whether I’m navigating the airport or heading out for dinner after a full day of hiking. I love wearing mine across my chest for added security and quick access, making it as practical as it is stylish.
Its compact yet functional design features multiple compartments to keep everything organized. The vibrant Cotopaxi colors add a fun touch to your travel gear. Lightweight and comfortable, it’s ideal for day hikes, sightseeing, or nights on the town. If you're looking for a versatile, durable, and adventure-ready hip pack, this is the one to grab!
Montem UltraStrong Trekking Poles
It’s no secret that we are huge fans of trekking poles at AGC. They provide stability and reduce strain on the trail, making it a no brainer to add these as a recommended or required item on our packing lists. My Montems have traveled with me to Portugal, Switzerland, and on day hikes in my beloved backyard in the Rocky Mountains. They are a fan favorite for good reason: they offer the perfect combination of durability, convenience, and style. Made from lightweight aluminum, they rival the performance of pricier carbon fiber poles while being budget-friendly. Plus, they collapse small enough to fit in a checked bag, making them ideal for travel.
The quick-release adjustment system is smooth and reliable, perfect for quick height changes on uneven terrain. The ergonomic cork handles provide comfort and grip even on long hikes. With a range of fun color options, these poles are as practical as they are stylish. Black Friday is the perfect time to grab a pair of these trekking poles and gear up for your next adventure!
Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks
If you’re looking for compression socks that blend style and comfort for everyday wear, the Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks are a perfect pick. Designed with a breathable nylon-spandex blend, they offer light compression (15-20 mmHg) that feels supportive without being restrictive. They are ideal for long days on your feet, red-eye flights, or even recovery after workouts.
These socks stand out with their stylish ombre designs. They add a pop of personality while remaining sophisticated. The thin material increases airflow and ensures your feet stay cool, while antimicrobial properties help keep odors at bay. Although the fabric is less padded than some other options, it provides subtle cushioning in the toe and heel. These socks are a must-have for both daily routines and your next adventure.
Smartwool Hiking Socks
Founded in 1994 in Steamboat Springs, CO, Smartwool was the first outdoor company to create performance Merino wool ski socks. This revolutionized the category and forever changed the way outdoor enthusiasts viewed their feet. Since then, Smartwool has continued to innovate and perfect the craft, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with Merino wool.
Merino wool is the key ingredient in almost every item Smartwool makes. It's soft material, manages moisture, regulates temperature, and resists odors. Merino wool is what makes their base layers, hiking socks, running socks, and other outdoor apparel so incredibly comfortable and effective in any condition.
Bombas Sunday Slipper
If you’re looking for a cozy pair of slippers to wear at home on a cold morning, look no further! This is the slipper that looks as good as it feels. They are designed with soft, ultra-warm, and fluffy sherpa inside and out. They also have a memory foam and EVA midsole for a high level of support and a rubber outsole so you can step out quickly without having to change into real shoes. Not only will these make you feel like you’re walking on clouds, but Bombas donates one essential clothing item for every pair that is purchased.
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Traveling can wreak havoc on your lips with changing temperatures and low humidity, especially during air travel—but the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask has you covered. This hydrating hero is packed with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to repair and moisturize, leaving your lips soft and smooth.
What makes it even better? The mask comes in variousa fun, seasonal flavors—perfect for the holidays—and is available in smaller, travel-friendly sizes, making it easy to toss into your carry-on or give as a thoughtful stocking stuffer. Available at Laneige, Sephora, and Amazon, it’s the ultimate treat for lips on the go!
Teapile Travel-Bottle Set
The Teapile Travel-Bottle Set keeps your toiletries organized and is hassle-free while on the go. Featuring durable, leak-proof silicone bottles in various colors, this set makes it easy to differentiate between products at a glance—no more fumbling for shampoo when you need lotion! With TSA-approved sizes and a mix of containers, including jars for creams and bottles for liquids, this set is perfect for packing light and staying within carry-on guidelines.
Designed with convenience in mind, these bottles are easy to fill, clean, and squeeze, ensuring you can use every last drop of your favorite products. The variety of colors adds a fun touch and keeps your packing neat and stress-free.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Buy Now From REI
Give the gift of adventure this year! An $80.00 Annual National and Federal Park Pass provides access to more than 2,000 recreation areas managed by six Federal agencies. A majority of the proceeds of these passes are used to improve and enhance visitor recreation services. This is a win-win gift for a loved one AND the outdoors.
SOIL: The Story of a Black Mother’s Garden by Camille Dungy
Buy Now From Amazon
Camille Dungy, a celebrated author and Fort Collins local, where AGC’s headquarters are located, has crafted a poetic masterpiece SOIL: The Story of a Black Mother’s Garden. This inspiring book chronicles her family's creation of a vibrant, culturally significant garden, challenging neighborhood rules that prioritized uniformity over individuality.
More than a story about gardening, SOIL explores themes of family, community, race, and legacy, celebrating the connection between nature and humanity. A thoughtful gift for nature lovers and community builders, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
AGC Kula Cloth
Buy Now From The Good Adventure Shop 
A Kula Cloth is a reusable antimicrobial pee cloth intended for use in a wilderness setting, while hiking or backpacking. If you seek to have good hygiene but don't love to pack in excess amounts of toilet paper or employ the 'shaking off' method, a pee cloth is a way to stay comfortable AND have a positive impact on the environment.
You can be stylish and hygienic with this fun Adventures in Good Company-inspired design!
Bookaroo A6 Notebook
The Bookaroo A6 Notebook is the ultimate travel companion for journaling your adventures or jotting down quick notes. Its durable external cover withstands the rigors of travel, making it perfect for tossing into a daypack or purse without worry. Despite its compact size, it packs in plenty of functionality, including a handy front pocket for storing business cards, stickers, or other small souvenirs from your travels.
It’s a thoughtful gift or a treat for yourself, this notebook is as adventure-ready as you are!
BV Classic Pen
Buy Now From Light House Paper Co 
I first discovered the BV Classic Pen at one of my favorite spots—Inkwell & Brew in Estes Park, CO—and it’s been a satisfying splurge ever since. The elegant design and vibrant colors make it a joy to use, while the smooth, fine-tip writing is perfect for jotting down notes, filling out travel documents, or journaling on the go. It’s the pen I always have tucked in my fanny pack and travel bag, ready for any adventure.
Beyond its practicality, the BV Classic Pen feels like an upgrade from your everyday writing tool, making it a thoughtful gift to pair with a travel journal. Whether you’re treating yourself or someone else, this pen adds a touch of luxury to even the simplest moments of travel, and it’s a little indulgence that’s well worth it!
Studio A6 Watercolor Field Journal
Buy Now From Amazon
The Studio A6 Watercolor Field Journal is the perfect companion for your next creative adventure, helping you take your travel journaling to the next level. Compact and durable, it’s designed for artists and adventurers who want to capture the beauty of their journeys in vivid, expressive ways. Its high-quality, textured watercolor paper is ideal for painting, sketching, or mixed media, holding up beautifully to both wet and dry techniques.
Small enough to fit in a daypack or purse, this field journal makes it easy to document your travels wherever inspiration strikes. Thoughtfully designed with a sturdy cover to protect your artwork, it’s a creative must-have for travelers looking to preserve their memories in a unique, artistic way.
Trailbound Watercolor Travel Set
Buy Now From Art Toolkit
The Trailbound Watercolor Travel Set is the ultimate gift for creative adventurers and a favorite among our artistic travelers. Compact yet incredibly versatile, this thoughtfully curated kit includes professional-grade paints, a mixing palette, and essential tools—all in a sleek, travel-ready case. It’s designed for those who love capturing the beauty of their journeys with vivid, artistic flair.
Lightweight and portable, it fits easily into a daypack, making it an ideal companion for artistic explorers. Whether you’re gifting this to someone special or treating yourself, the Trailbound Watercolor Travel Set encourages creativity and brings your travel memories to life in a truly unique way.
Mack's Foam Ear Plugs
Foam earplugs are a simple yet effective gateway to sound sleep, helping to block out the snores of a bunkmate or bustling nightlife. The Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs offer a reliable solution with a 37.1 dB noise reduction rating; they effectively block out disruptive sounds and stay securely in place all night. Their tapered design ensures consistent comfort, avoiding the slippage or discomfort of other brands. Affordable and travel-friendly, they come in a compact, reusable case, making them a great choice for restful sleep on the go.
REI Trailmade Pants
The REI Co-op Trailmade Pants are a fantastic choice for adventure vacations. They offer comfort, durability, and versatility for a range of outdoor activities. Designed with stretchy, quick-drying fabric, these pants can handle everything from long hikes to casual sightseeing.
Their inclusive sizing options set these pants apart, ensuring adventurers of all heights find their perfect match. Thoughtful details like ample pockets and a streamlined design make them practical and stylish, whether exploring the backcountry or strolling through a mountain town. With the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants, you'll be ready for any adventure.
Toad & Co Boundless Jersey Long Sleeve Tee
The Toad & Co Boundless Jersey Long Sleeve Tee is a travel favorite, blending comfort, versatility, and sustainability. Its soft, stretchy fabric feels cozy enough for lounging at the lodge after a long day of hiking but polished enough to wear out for a casual dinner. The lightweight design makes it an excellent layering piece for unpredictable weather, while its classic cut ensures it pairs effortlessly with everything from hiking pants to jeans.
We also love Toad & Co for their commitment to sustainability—this shirt is made with eco-friendly materials that align with responsible production practices.
ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Briefs
For active travelers, investing in quality underwear is a game-changer,, and the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Briefs are a top choice for comfort, performance, and practicality. Crafted from lightweight, breathable fabric, these briefs are quick-drying and moisture-wicking, ensuring you stay comfortable whether hiking, flying, or exploring a new city. Their odor-resistant technology makes them ideal for multi-day adventures, while the durable design ensures they can handle the demands of active travel.
These briefs are also incredibly packable, allowing you to travel light without sacrificing comfort. They can be easily washed and dried overnight, making them perfect for extended trips. If you prefer a different cut, ExOfficio offers the Give-N-Go 2.0 in hipster and full-coverage styles, catering to various preferences.
Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small)
The Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag is a lightweight, compact solution for organizing travel-size toiletries, making it ideal for active travelers. It’s small enough to fit in a backpack or carry-on, but holds enough travel-sized toiletries for a 10-day trip. Designed to be hung, it’s perfect for tight spaces like small bathrooms or camp showers, allowing easy access to your essentials. Durable and travel-friendly, this bag is a great option for those looking to save space without sacrificing functionality.
Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is an excellent choice if you're looking for one that works for most international travel. Equipped with three standard international plugs and a US-style plug, it covers most countries worldwide. With four USB-A ports and one USB-C port, it can charge multiple devices simultaneously, and its fast charging capability outperforms other adapters. It comes with a replaceable fuse and spare, adding an extra protection layer for unexpected surges. Compact and sturdy, it also has a USB cable and a nylon travel case for added convenience.
While no universal adapter is truly universal, the Epicka’s robust features make it a great all-in-one solution for most travelers. It’s slightly bulkier than basic plug adapters, but its ability to power multiple devices efficiently makes it a valuable addition to any travel kit, especially for tech-savvy adventurers.
Anker PowerCore Slim 10000
If you don’t already travel with a power bank, it’s time to start—no one wants a dead phone right when they need to snap the perfect shot or schedule an Uber. The Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 is a great choice, combining portability, reliability, and fast charging in one sleek package. With enough capacity to charge most smartphones twice, it ensures you’ll stay powered up through busy travel days.
Compact and lightweight, it fits easily into a pocket, purse, or daypack, making it a hassle-free addition to your gear. Its high-speed charging feature works with many devices, and its built-in temperature control prevents overheating. With its durable design and trusted performance, the PowerCore Slim 10000 is an excellent companion for travelers.
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