Five gifts I'd pick for myself, even though I already own them.
Words by Michele Underwood | Photos by Michele, Mountain Gazette, Rumpl, and RUX
Snow Peak Titanium 450 Mug in blue.
When I was young, my mom told me that when picking out gifts for people, I should choose something I'd love to receive myself. So that's what I did. And all these years later, that's still how I think about gift giving.
Which brings me to this list.
I've picked five gifts for the outdoor adventurer in your life, and every single one is something I'd be happy to unwrap myself. Some I already own and use, and others come from brands I've grown to appreciate through my own adventures. Whether the person on your list loves hiking, camping, skiing, mountain biking, or just being outside, I think there's something here they'll enjoy.
There's a little something for different budgets, from a small gift to a bigger splurge.
1. Mountain Gazette — My Number One Pick
Mountain Gazette, Issue 206.
If there's one gift on this list I'd recommend above all the others, it's a Mountain Gazette subscription.
I love this publication. Calling it a magazine almost feels wrong because it's enormous. At 11 by 17 inches, it's more like a beautiful oversized book filled with incredible photography, stories, and the kind of outdoor culture that makes me want to pack up the van and head for the mountains.
Mountain Gazette has been around in one form or another since 1966, and it was brought back to life in 2020. There's a little nostalgia in its pages, and I'm here for it.
It's not a magazine you flip through and throw away. I keep my issues. They're the kind of thing you leave on the coffee table, pick up again months later, and discover something you missed the first time.
What I appreciate most is that Mountain Gazette isn't just about gear or where to go next. It's about the people, places, and stories that make the outdoors so special.
And because it's a subscription, your gift keeps showing up long after the holidays are over. Two oversized issues arrive each year, one in spring and another in fall.
Why I'd give it: You don't have to know someone's jacket size, favorite outdoor activity, or what gear they already own. If they love the mountains, this is a pretty wonderful gift.
Price: $89/year
2. Snow Peak Titanium Mug
Snow Peak Ti-Double 450 Titanium Mug in silver.
If you've spent any time reading Overland Girl, you probably know I have a thing for Snow Peak titanium.
I own several of their titanium mugs, including the double-wall 450 in different colors. Do I need that many titanium mugs? Probably not. But I love them.
There's something about Snow Peak's attention to detail that makes even a simple coffee mug feel special. They're lightweight, beautifully made, and the folding handles make them easy to pack away. I have one in every color, which comes in handy when I have a crew of coffee drinkers around.
I use mine for coffee at camp, in the van, and at home. The anodized colors are a fun alternative to the usual stainless steel camp mug, especially if you're buying for someone who already has just about everything.
This is one of those gifts that someone might not splurge on for themselves, which makes it even better to give.
Why I'd give it: It's small, useful, and a little bit of luxury for someone who loves their morning coffee outdoors..
Price: $64.95
3. RUX Waterproof Duffel Box
RUX Waterproof Duffel Box, 75L, in black.
I have a lot of RUX gear. And I mean a lot. I own three RUX 70L containers and a whole collection of their packing bags in just about every size. When you're traveling with mountain bikes, skis, hiking gear, and everything else I bring along, having a way to keep it all organized makes a big difference.
So when RUX introduced its new Waterproof Duffel Box, of course it caught my attention.
What I like about the design is that it's not your typical duffel bag. It has a structured base that allows it to stand open while you're packing, so you're not fighting with a floppy bag every time you try to put something inside. It also has a waterproof roll-top closure to help protect your gear from rain and wet conditions, although it's not intended for prolonged submersion.
I haven't tried this particular duffel yet, but considering how much of their gear I already own and use, it's definitely on my wish list.
Why I'd give it: For the person whose outdoor gear seems to multiply every season. Whether they're camping, skiing, mountain biking, or traveling, this is a great way to keep everything together.
Price: $340
4. Rumpl Fleece Puffy Blanket
Rumpl Fleece Puffy Blanket in Puzzled Black.
I love this blanket. Especially when I'm camping or hanging out in the van after a long day outside. I have two sizes. The smaller one stays at my workstation in the van, where I can throw it over my lap while I'm working. The larger one goes under my bedding, with the fleece side against my skin. It's so cozy.
I've used Rumpl blankets for years, and the Fleece Puffy combines the warmth of a puffy blanket with the soft, cozy feel of fleece.
One side has that familiar Rumpl weather-resistant outdoor blanket material, while the other is lined with fleece, with recycled insulation in between. It's the kind of blanket you want to wrap up in when the temperature drops, whether you're sitting around camp, watching a movie in the van, or just hanging out at home.
Another thing I appreciate about Rumpl is that their blankets are designed for the outdoors. The weather-resistant side is useful at camp, though I'd still keep the fleece side off wet or muddy ground.
Why I'd give it: Almost everyone can use another good blanket, especially someone who spends a lot of time outdoors. And this one feels a little more special than your everyday throw.
5. The North Face ThermoBall Traction Mule V
You know that feeling when you've been wearing hiking boots or ski boots all day and finally get to take them off?
That's exactly when a pair of The North Face ThermoBall Traction Mules comes in handy.
I wore mine all the time last winter, and I think these things are awesome. They're warm, comfortable, and so easy to slip on when you don't feel like putting on another pair of shoes. I even wear mine out running errands, and it's funny how often someone will say, "Aren't those so comfortable? I love mine!"
They have insulation, a cozy fleece-lined collar, and a rubber sole, so they're great for hanging around camp, stepping outside the van, or just wearing around the house.
And while they're perfect for someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, I think just about anyone would appreciate a pair. You don't have to be a skier or camper to enjoy having warm feet.
Why I'd give them: Warm feet are one of life's simple joys. Whether someone spends their weekends skiing, camping, or curled up on the couch, these are a gift almost anyone can enjoy.
Price: Approximately $70
A Little Something I'd Love to Receive
My mom's advice about gift-giving has stuck with me all these years. And looking at these five gifts, I think she'd approve.
They're all things I'd be excited to receive, and that's what makes them worth recommending. Some are practical, some are a little indulgent, and some are just plain fun.
If you're shopping for someone who loves the outdoors, I hope this gives you a few ideas. And if you happen to find something here you'd like for yourself, well, I won't tell.
I write Overland Girl, where I share firsthand travel experiences across the American West — from desert landscapes and national parks to small towns layered with history. My work blends movement, place, and the stories that shape them.
Some posts may include affiliate links to products or services I use on the road. If you choose to purchase through those links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. It helps support continued travel and storytelling. I only link to items I personally use or would use myself.