15 Best Gift Cards for Hikers_ Perfect Outdoor and Travel Essentials

Finding the right gift for outdoor enthusiasts can feel like navigating a trail without a map. Hikers are particular about their gear, and what works for weekend warriors might not cut it for backcountry adventurers. That's where gift cards shine—they put the power of choice directly in the hands of people who know exactly what they need for their next adventure.

Whether you're shopping for someone who lives in hiking boots or a friend just discovering the joy of trail life, these gift cards open doors to everything from technical gear to travel experiences. We've rounded up options that cover the full spectrum of hiking needs, from specialized outdoor retailers to broader travel and lifestyle brands that hikers actually use.

REI Co-op Gift Cards, Patagonia Gift Cards, Bass Pro Shops Gift Cards and etc

1. REI Co-op Gift Cards

REI stands as the gold standard for outdoor retail, and their gift cards are like handing someone the keys to an outdoor gear paradise. Members get those coveted annual dividends, plus access to garage sales where returned gear goes for steal-of-a-deal prices.

What makes them special: The co-op model means your gift keeps giving back through member rewards and exclusive events.

Pros:

• Access to top-tier outdoor brands and REI's own reliable gear
• Member benefits include annual dividends and garage sale access
• Knowledgeable staff who actually use the gear they sell
• Generous return policy takes the risk out of trying new equipment

Cons:

• Premium pricing on many items
• Limited to outdoor gear (though that's exactly what many hikers want)

Best for: Serious hikers who appreciate quality gear and want to support a company that gives back to outdoor communities.

2. Patagonia Gift Cards

When hikers talk about gear that lasts, Patagonia usually enters the conversation. Their gift cards open access to clothing and gear built for people who push boundaries, whether that's summiting peaks or just surviving unpredictable weather.

What makes them special: Every purchase supports environmental activism, and their repair program keeps gear out of landfills.

Pros:

• Lifetime repair guarantee on most items
• Strong environmental mission resonates with eco-conscious hikers
• Clothing designed for real outdoor conditions, not just looking outdoorsy
• Worn Wear program offers quality used gear at better prices

Cons:

• Higher price points can limit purchasing power
• More focused on clothing than technical hiking equipment

Best for: Environmentally minded hikers who want gear that aligns with their values and lasts for years.

3. Bass Pro Shops Gift Cards

Bass Pro Shops might be known for fishing, but their hiking and camping selection runs deep. Their gift cards work at Cabela's too, doubling the shopping options for outdoor gear enthusiasts.

What makes them special: The combination of outdoor gear, camping equipment, and hunting supplies under one roof.

Pros:

• Works at both Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's locations
• Frequent sales and promotions stretch gift card value
• Good selection of camping gear and outdoor clothing
• Physical stores offer hands-on gear testing

Cons:

• Less focus on technical hiking gear compared to specialized retailers
• Store locations might be limited depending on your area

Best for: Hikers who also camp, hunt, or fish, and appreciate one-stop shopping for outdoor activities.

4. Dick's Sporting Goods Gift Cards

Dick's Sporting Goods brings outdoor gear to the mainstream, making it easy to find hiking essentials without the specialty store markup. Their gift cards also work at Golf Galaxy, though that's probably not relevant for most hikers.

What makes them special: Accessible locations and competitive pricing on popular outdoor brands.

Pros:

• Wide geographic coverage makes redemption convenient
• Regular sales and clearance events
• Good selection of hiking boots, backpacks, and basic gear
• Price matching policy helps ensure competitive deals

Cons:

• Limited selection of technical or specialized hiking equipment
• Staff knowledge varies significantly by location

Best for: New hikers building their first gear collection or experienced hikers looking for deals on basics.

Amazon Gift Cards, Backcountry Gift Cards, Moosejaw Gift Cards and etc

5. Amazon Gift Cards

Let's be honest—Amazon has everything, including gear that's hard to find elsewhere. For hikers who know exactly what they want or love researching gear online, Amazon gift cards offer unlimited flexibility.

What makes them special: The sheer scope of available products, from mainstream brands to niche gear makers.

Pros:

• Largest selection of hiking gear and outdoor equipment online
• Competitive pricing and frequent deals
• Customer reviews help inform purchasing decisions
• Prime shipping gets gear delivered quickly

Cons:

• Can't physically test gear before buying
• Quality varies widely across different sellers
• Easy to get overwhelmed by too many options

Best for: Tech-savvy hikers who enjoy researching gear online and want access to the widest possible selection.

6. Backcountry Gift Cards

Backcountry built their reputation serving serious outdoor athletes, and their gift cards reflect that focus. This isn't the place for casual weekend gear—it's where committed hikers find equipment for challenging adventures.

What makes them special: Curated selection of high-performance gear and expert customer service from actual outdoor enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Carefully selected gear from top outdoor brands
• Expert advice from customer service reps who use the gear
• Frequent sales on premium equipment
• Detailed product descriptions and specifications

Cons:

• Higher price points reflect premium positioning
• Limited physical presence for trying gear in person
• Focus on technical gear might overwhelm casual hikers

Best for: Experienced hikers who demand performance from their gear and appreciate expert guidance.

7. Moosejaw Gift Cards

Moosejaw brings personality to outdoor retail with their quirky brand voice and solid gear selection. Their gift cards work for hikers who want quality equipment without taking themselves too seriously.

What makes them special: Fun brand personality combined with legitimate outdoor gear expertise.

Pros:

• Rewards program offers points on purchases
• Good mix of technical and lifestyle outdoor gear
• Regular promotions and sales events
• Entertaining product descriptions make shopping more fun

Cons:

• Smaller selection compared to major outdoor retailers
• Brand humor might not appeal to everyone
• Limited physical store presence

Best for: Hikers who appreciate good gear and good humor in equal measure.

8. L.L.Bean Gift Cards

L.L.Bean has been outfitting outdoor enthusiasts for over a century, and their gift cards represent that legacy of quality and customer service. Their satisfaction guarantee is legendary among outdoor gear buyers.

What makes them special: Unconditional satisfaction guarantee and a reputation for gear that lasts generations.

Pros:

• Lifetime satisfaction guarantee on all purchases
• Classic outdoor gear that never goes out of style
• Excellent customer service and easy returns
• Made in USA options for those who prioritize domestic manufacturing

Cons:

• Higher prices reflect premium quality and service
• More traditional styling might not appeal to younger hikers
• Limited selection of cutting-edge technical gear

Best for: Hikers who value traditional quality and want gear they can depend on for years.

Cabela's Gift Cards, Target Gift Cards, Walmart Gift Cards and etc

9. Cabela's Gift Cards

Cabela's serves the hunting and fishing crowd, but their hiking and camping sections offer solid options for trail enthusiasts. Now part of Bass Pro Shops, these gift cards work at both retailers.

What makes them special: Focus on gear built for serious outdoor use, not just weekend adventures.

Pros:

• Interchangeable with Bass Pro Shops gift cards
• Quality outdoor gear at competitive prices
• Good selection of camping and hiking equipment
• Frequent sales and promotional events

Cons:

• Store focus leans heavily toward hunting and fishing
• Limited presence in some geographic areas
• Less emphasis on lightweight backpacking gear

Best for: Hikers who also enjoy other outdoor activities and want gear built for durability.

10. Target Gift Cards

Target might seem like an odd choice for hikers, but their outdoor section has grown significantly. Plus, gift cards work for everything from gear to snacks for the trail.

What makes them special: Convenience and variety, plus the ability to grab hiking snacks and everyday items in one trip.

Pros:

• Convenient locations and online shopping
• Competitive pricing on basic outdoor gear
• Works for trail food, first aid supplies, and camping basics
• Regular sales and promotions

Cons:

• Limited selection of technical hiking equipment
• Quality varies across different price points
• Not a destination for serious gear shopping

Best for: Casual hikers or as supplementary gift cards for trail supplies and basics.

11. Walmart Gift Cards

Walmart's outdoor section covers hiking basics at budget-friendly prices. Their gift cards work great for hikers who prioritize value or need to stock up on consumables like batteries and trail food.

What makes them special: Unbeatable prices on hiking essentials and supplies.

Pros:

• Lowest prices on basic hiking gear and supplies
• Convenient locations and online ordering
• Good for trail food, first aid supplies, and camping basics
• No expiration dates on gift cards

Cons:

• Limited selection of quality hiking equipment
• Focus on budget options over performance gear
• Staff knowledge about outdoor gear varies

Best for: Budget-conscious hikers or those who need to stock up on trail supplies and consumables.

12. Airbnb Gift Cards

Hiking adventures often require overnight stays, and Airbnb gift cards open up lodging options near trailheads and in outdoor destinations. Many hikers prefer unique stays over standard hotels.

What makes them special: Access to unique accommodations in outdoor destinations where hotels might not exist.

Pros:

• Lodging options near remote trailheads and outdoor areas
• Often more affordable than hotels for longer stays
• Kitchen access helps with meal planning for hiking trips
• Unique properties add character to outdoor adventures

Cons:

• Quality and amenities vary significantly by property
• Less predictable than hotel stays
• Cancellation policies can be restrictive

Best for: Hikers who travel to different regions and prefer unique accommodations over standard hotels.

13. Hotels.com Gift Cards

For hikers who prefer predictable accommodations after long days on the trail, Hotels.com gift cards provide access to reliable lodging options. Their rewards program offers free nights after accumulating stays.

What makes them special: Reliable accommodations with a rewards program that benefits frequent travelers.

Pros:

• Predictable quality and amenities
• Rewards program offers free nights
• Wide selection of properties in outdoor destinations
• Easy booking and modification process

Cons:

• Less character than unique local accommodations
• Can be expensive in popular outdoor destinations
• Limited options in very remote areas

Best for: Hikers who value predictable comfort and amenities after challenging outdoor adventures.

14. National Park Service Gift Cards

National Park Service gift cards work at park visitor centers and online stores, covering everything from park passes to educational materials. They're perfect for hikers who spend time in America's national parks.

What makes them special: Direct support for America's national parks and access to park-specific gear and passes.

Pros:

• Supports national park conservation and maintenance
• Works for annual park passes and entrance fees
• Park-specific gear and educational materials
• Valid at all national park locations

Cons:

• Limited to National Park Service properties and online store
• Smaller selection compared to general outdoor retailers
• Primarily covers park fees and basic items

Best for: Hikers who frequently visit national parks and want to support the park system.

15. Garmin Gift Cards

Garmin dominates the outdoor GPS market, and their gift cards provide access to devices that serious hikers depend on for navigation and safety. Their ecosystem includes watches, handhelds, and mapping software.

What makes them special: Specialized focus on GPS technology and outdoor navigation tools.

Pros:

• Industry-leading GPS accuracy and reliability
• Devices designed specifically for outdoor use
• Regular software updates and new mapping data
• Integration between different Garmin devices

Cons:

• Higher prices reflect specialized technology
• Learning curve for advanced features
• Limited to Garmin products and accessories

Best for: Tech-savvy hikers who want the best navigation tools and safety features available.

The best gift card for any hiker depends on their experience level, preferred activities, and personal style. Serious backpackers might appreciate REI or Backcountry cards that give them access to technical gear, while casual day hikers might prefer the flexibility of Target or Amazon cards. Consider what type of hiking they do most, where they like to shop, and whether they value supporting specific outdoor companies or causes.

Remember that many hikers appreciate experiences as much as gear—gift cards for accommodations or national parks can create memories that last long after the latest gadget breaks down. The key is matching the gift card to the person's hiking style and values, ensuring your gift helps fuel their next adventure.

​15 Best Gift Cards for Hikers: Perfect Outdoor and Travel Essentials

15 Best Gift Cards for Hikers: Perfect Outdoor and Travel Essentials