‘Tis the season for holiday shopping and gift-wrapping! I was recently inspired to share a video on my YouTube with gift ideas for National Park lovers. While making it, I started to think about all the helpful hiking gadgets and accessories I’ve accumulated over the years.

Truthfully, you don’t need much to start backpacking other than the obvious: a sleeping bag, a water purification system, food, etc. However, having a few small extras on hand can dramatically improve your experience on the trail.

Here’s my official holiday gift guide for hikers and backpackers!

1. Seat Pad

A seat pad is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: a compact, cushioned pad that gives you something to sit on other than the ground. It’s a handy accessory for taking a load off while you’re making food around the campfire after a long day of hiking.

I’ve had the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat for years and highly recommend it, but there are plenty of cheaper options that work just as well. I like how this seat pad folds up with a bungee closure so I can tuck it into an exterior pocket on my pack for easy access.

2. Water Shoes

Every hiker needs a solid pair of water shoes for creek crossings. They’ll save you from hiking around in wet socks and shoes—a recipe for blisters. A lot of people go for Chacos or Crocs, but I’m a fan of the Teva Original Universal Sandal (which I’m holding in the picture above) because it’s comfortable and lightweight.

3. Satellite Device

In my opinion, a satellite communication device is an essential safety item for backpacking. Most wilderness areas have limited or nonexistent cell service, making it challenging to stay in touch with friends and family or get help in an emergency.

Satellite communicators are an excellent tool for sending updates to loved ones and calling for help during your backpacking trips. I have a Garmin inReach Explorer which is now discontinued, but the brand has other similar versions like the inReach Mini 2.

4. Solar Lantern

While a solar-powered lantern isn’t a backpacking necessity, it is fun to have. I’ve owned a LuminAID for years and it’s come in handy many times.

I don’t notice it hanging on my backpack while I hike because it folds flat, and it provides the perfect amount of light. I usually pull the lantern out in my tent at night when I’m settling in for bed so I don’t waste my phone or headlamp battery.

5. Shoe Gaiters

Help your favorite hiker stay comfortable on the trail with a pair of shoe gaiters. These footwear accessories clip onto the outside of your sneakers or boots to block dirt, rocks, and other debris. They can make a world of difference, helping you cut down on the number of times you have to stop and shake your shoes out.

While there are many gaiter styles available, I like low trail/running gaiters—my Outdoor Research gaiters (which I’m wearing in the picture above) are super old but still get the job done. There also tall versions that cover almost the entire leg, as well as waterproof options.

6. Microspikes

If you’re shopping for someone who frequently hikes in the show, consider gifting them a pair of microspikes. Microspikes are typically made of rubber, with small metal parts that give you traction when hiking in slick conditions.

They slip onto the bottom of your shoe to provide extra grip when navigating snow or ice. Kahtoola is one of the most popular and trusted microspike producers, but most within the $50-75 range should be fairly high-quality.

7. Neck Gaiter

A neck gaiter is somewhat similar to a shoe gaiter, but its main purpose is to block the sun. Brands like BUFF make these versatile all-season pieces. They’re commonly worn around the neck (hence the name) but can be used in many ways.

In a pinch, you can turn the gaiter into a face mask, hood, balaclava, and more. Make sure the fabric is moisture-wicking and breathable—UPF protection is also a bonus.