Ironically, i’m not usually one to procrastinate Christmas shopping. I did however procrastinate writing this post though. So I guess I still fit the stereotype of the last-minute-christmas-guy. In my defense, we’ve made it easy on ourselves over the last few years by deciding not to give each other presents. We decided a while years back that for Christmas and birthdays we’d pick a new place to travel to, and that became our present. This year we decided to mix it up and give each other only 2 gifts, but both have to be experiential. One gift is just for the other, and the other gift for the both of us. Example, and if you’re reading this Amber, this is not your gift ;). A present for Amber could be a spa day for just her, and then a ballroom dance class for both of us.
BUT for those of you who are looking for a more conventional, last minute gifts for your spouse, significant other, child, or parent, here’s a little guide. The only twist is, these are things I love or I would want. Not gonna pigeon hole anyone and say these gifts are for guys only, but they’re for anyone you know who loves travel, photography, outdoors and fishing. So if you know someone like me, guy or girl,
they’re going to love one of these.
Many, but not all, of these brands are smaller brands that I’ve discovered this year and have grown to love. I’ve tried to use as many Amazon links as possible because, well, it’s crunch time and Prime gets the job done. But all of these people are going to do their best to get you your presents on time. And if not, well there’s always the next birthday. I divided the gifts up in different categories, and different prices. Some of you might need the big gift, while others just need a small stocking stuffer, so I tried to cover all the bases.
1
DSLR Pro Pack
Incase
One of my favorite travel/photography brands. You’ve seen me do a tour of my bags and all my camera gear as well as my giveaway where the winner had to guess how much the weight of my camera gear inside my bag was. I love their DSLR pro pack which is my go to bag, but it’s not for the light user. Only for the lover and over packer of photography gear.
2
Portable Mini Drone
DJI
I’ve had 2 drones, and love both of them. If you know someone who wants to get into droning, this is a great place to start, and quite frankly, to end. It’s got almost everything you need short of full scale film procution value for the big screen, but it’s so awesome and at a great price. I bought my first DJI for $1400, and second for $1000, so this one at $350 is killer. Just do yourself a favor. Get the insurance. It’s one of those when, not if, type things.
3
Canon EOS REBEL T7i
Canon
We’re definitely a Canon family. Fun fact, I grew up shooting Nikon. My first SLR camera was a Nikon F which was fully mechanical, no electronics, not even a light meter, which is how I learned photography. Then I married Amber and converted to Canon. If you know someone who is looking to get into photography, the t7i is a great way to start. It definitely requires more of a budget, but it’s well worth it. I shot almost my whole last trip to Iceland with it and it did not disappoint.
4
Universal Lens Cap
KUVRD
They’re still technically in Kickstarter phase, but that’s not a bad thing for a gift. Always fun to give a gift that also means a lot to someone else. They make the ULC (Universal Lens Cap) which is a cap/cover that fits over any lens and doubles as protection/shock absorption/water proofing for your glass. A great gift for a photographer.
5
CapturePro Camera Clip
Peak Design
I like hiking, being outdoors, and photography, but there’s nothing worse than a) carrying your camera around your neck while hiking, while it swings back and forth bouncing off your chest or b) hiking with your camera in your bag, where it’s not accessible. Peak design makes this clip that hooks to your backpack, or belt, or strap, so your camera mounts right to it and is always ready to go. I use it all the time and love it. It’s perfect for a travel photographer. I use this with my Incase DSLR pro pack and it’s the perfect combo.
6
Accessory Organizer
Incase
I LOVE their accessory organizers. I use 4 or 5 of them for cords, cables, batteries etc. They also have this KASKADE version, which is the same. Shout out to him BTW. I went to one of his shows in NYC because his incredible photographer Mark Owens is a friend of mine. The show started at 1am, and I’m like, “shouldn’t we all be asleep?” Never felt like such an old man in my life.
7
EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens
Canon
For a more budget friendly stocking stuffer for someone who is ready to take their photography to the next level by getting their first non-kit lense, this is a great option. It’s inexpensive (for a lens) and can elevate your photography game big time with the f/1.8.
8
Black Shell Form-Fitting Rain and Dust Cover
Peak Design
Protects your camera from water, snow to keep your camera safe without adding bulk or impeding your workflow.
1
Water Bottle
Hydro Flask
We use ours all the time, in pretty much every size, even the kids love them. I even put ice water next to the bed at night, and it’s still icy cold in the morning. Never knew how much ice water I’d need on hand till I moved to AZ?
2
5'9" Polyphonic Surf Board
Album
If you have someone on your list who’s been REALLY nice this year, they might deserve this, or any other from Album. Both Amber and my boards are Album boards, and they are AMAZING. They’re more like art. My brother keeps telling me to hang mine up in my office, but it also rides like a dream so I just can’t. I love this board though, guy or girl, it would be an INCREDIBLE gift! I love the pink.
3
Sleeping Bag
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi is a super cool brand based out of Utah. They really get it with all their designs. If your gift receiver loves the outdoors, they’ll love Cotopaxi. They also give back to impoverished countries and are just overall doing great things. Love this sleeping bag.
4
Nomad 7 Solar Panel
Goal Zero
Goalzero is another brand doing great things, also based out of Utah. Way to go Utah! This solar panel set is a great gift from santa.
5
Flash Personal Cooking System
Jetboil
I LOVE my Jetboil. I’m on my second one in about 10 years, but my first one died because of user error. Whoops.
6
Nylon Print Hammock
Grand Trunk
They make great hammocks and hammock accessories. I have a few of them, from lightweight to kids hammocks. So this would be a great gift for a kid too. Atticus and Rosie LOVE their hammock. I brought this ultra light hammock to Iceland, but overlooked the lack of trees. Poor planning on my part. But it’s still great. You can get these suspension straps as a stocking stuffer. They make set up super easy and less invasive.
7
Flex 4 System Cook Set
MSR
This is perfect for someone who camps with a larger family, or with friends. They have smaller sets to, I just happen to have a family of four.
8
Survival Belt
Slide Belts
This has quickly become my favorite belt! I wear it all the time. I’d wear it to church if I had the black one. If you can’t tell by the photo, it has a hidden knife, flash light, and flint and steel. At first I was worried it would be a little gimmicky, but I honestly use the tools all the time, and on top of that it’s super sturdy with a ratchet to tighten. Move over Bear Grylls, there’s a man vs wild.
9
12-Ounce Food Flask
Hydro Flask
Chances are whoever you’re getting a gift for doesn’t have the food flask, and it’s small enough to fit in the stocking and will keep their food warm on a hike or while fishing.
10
Light-A-Life Mini USB Chainable Light
Goal Zero
You can use this light to light up your camp area. It would make a great stocking stuffer.
11
Jetset Utensil Set
Jetboil
If the person you’re shopping already has a jetboil, or even if not, these cooking utensils are awesome and compact.
12
Pocket-Sized Water Filter
MSR
I’ve never actually used this. Kinda looks like Life Straw 2.o and I want it! Looks so awesome.
13
Reactik Plus Headlamp
Petzl via Back Country
A solid Petzl Headlamp, via Backcountry.com another of my favorite brands, also based out of Utah. Man Utah is really killing it.
1
Fly Rod Carrier
Denver Outfitters
I’m just waiting for the rack to be done on my truck so I can mount this thing. It’s one of my favorite pieces of gear i’ve had all year and can’t wait to hit the river with it. There’s nothing worse that having to collapse your rods to move to your next spot. If you’re shopping for someone who loves fly fishing like me they’ll LOVE this. It’ll make their day I can promise you that!
2
Single Hand Rods
Jefferson Rod Co
Two of my brothers and I just got new 4 piece rods from Jefferson Rod Co. They make handmade incredible rods that are just as much art as they are incredible rods. If this person is a fly fisherman, they’ll love this. And If not, turn them into one by getting them this.
3
Tightlines Sling
Vedavoo
I like being low profile when I fish. I don’t like huge packs or bags. For years I wore a fanny pack slung over my shoulder, and Amber made fun of me for it. Veedavoo makes perfect slings for fishing. Super easy to access and low profile so you’re not feeling like you have a huge rucksack.
1
Spar SeaCell Jogger Pants
Rhone
I discovered Rhone last year and love everything they have. Pretty much everything I wear at the gym is Rhone. I just got these joggers which are super comfy.
2
Colorful Packable Full Zip Windbreaker
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi once again killing it with design. I have two of these windbreakers. With a lot of their pieces including some of their bags, their designs always change so everything is based on availability, but I love how they always mix it up.
3
Classico Polarized Sunglasses
Madson
I LOVE my Madsons. I have two pairs, both polarized. This is a great pair, but I also have the “Strut” style and love them. I don’t love super sporty sunglasses, but need them for fishing etc, so these are perfect. It also helps that they have a killer price for great sunglasses.
4
Beach Towel
HE > I
I fell in love with this brand in Hawaii. Partly because it’s a Hawaiian brand, but also because of the message. Love their beach towel.
6
Supai Wilderness Blanket
Keep it Wild Co.
Another great local brand, based out of AZ, Keep it Wild Co has greats blankets for your outdoor adventures.
7
Charcoal/Black Mesh Hat
Skye Mountain Co.
You may have seen my snap stories a while ago but I just got this hat from Skye Mountain Co and love it. They make great hats for outdoor enthusiasts.
8
Long Sleeve
Album Surf
Love this long sleeve, which, if you’re giving this to your boyfriend, girlfriend, husband or wife, it’s going to double as yours. Amber wears mine more than I do!
10
Gray Knit Cuff Beanie
Slouch Headwear
This is Amber’s brother and his wife’s company, and they make the coolest comfiest beanies for all ages, genders.
11
Yosemite National Park Unisex Tee
Keep it Wild Co.
Another from Keep it Wild co. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and genders. They make great hats, shirts, blankets, you name it. The geologist in me loves this Yosemite one.
Love the design of your blog! And thanks for a great guide!
Cindy | https://promocodespace.com/company/magicangeleyes-com/
Since David is “on” the blog duty, I’d like to ask him what lenses he shoots the most with. I have the nifty fifty and the kit lense my canon T1i came with (it’s an oldie but a goodie). I’m wondering if there is another lense I should get next or perhaps what type of flash or extras are needed after that step. Thank you!
Happy to help, which 50mm do you have? Either way, the 1.8, 1.4, 1.2 are all solid lenses. If you’re looking for something a bit more versatile, look into the 24-70 f/2.8. It’s pricy, but it will change your game big time! yeah the T1i is a bit old but i’m sure it works! My first DSLR was the T3i but i’ve since upgraded a few times. A new lens is a great next step, but after that, might be time to upgrade your body;)
Thank you so much for taking the time to respond — you’re answer was really helpful and I very much appreciate it! I have the 50mm 1.8. I’m going to work to save up for that 24-70 f/2.8 per your rec. I’ve been wanting to upgrade at least one thing all these years! Glad to hear you had the T3i. One day I will upgrade the body too I hope. And I hear you on the Nikon flip to Cannon – same thing happened to my dad in the 70’s-80’s, so he encouraged me to get the Canon when I first bought a camera a few decades later. May be what you tell A or R when they’re old enough and get into photography too! Greatly admire the pictures you all take. Glad you jump on here to share – my husband knows I love this blog, so it’s great to show him what YOU share with your readers too. Happy Holidays to you and yours.
David!! This is a manly gift guide and my husband is going to love me for getting him MAN STUFF. Thanks so much for sharing- this is seriously so so great. Merry Christmas!
Do you really think that drone is a good all-in-one option? I’m loving the price point and that it looks small enough to travel with! Do you use this one when traveling?
http://beyondblessedblog.com
instagram.com/ChloeBArnold/
So here is the thing, there are definitely better drones. I use and travel with the Mavic Pro and love it. It actually folds down better for travel in my opinion, but I will say, I think the difference is kind of negligible. Here’s a pretty good video and breakdown by Casey Neistat… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwfD6Ybb5SU. Ultimately I think that if you’re doing something that requires any kind of production value, even the Mavic might not cut it, so if you want something entry level, fun, can shoot 1080, don’t need 4k, then the Spark is great!
Great job on the gift guide David
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
Love this gift guide, great job David! I definitely see a few of these that I would want myself or would love to get for my friends and family!
xoxo KMS
http://www.sehnsationalstyle.com
Wow is many great gifts! I want to get the Canon camera!
xx
Courtney || https://courtneylivin.com
Love the new design of your blog!
Way to go, David. Great, succinct and useful!
My fiancé would love just about everything on this list because he’s quite adventurous and outdoorsy! Meanwhile I love all the camera gear you’ve listed! Thanks for all this!
Kim
simplylovebirds.com
This is probably the best gift guide I’ve ever seen! It was so unique and thorough. I love that so many of the gifts weren’t typical.
The design and layout of this gift guide is amazing! Well done, David! I loved the Kate Spade layout and material too. Ya’ll are killing it lately… (always)!
Well done! I’ve found at least a few things I might need to get for my honey. Great list, thank you David!
This is the best gift guide I have found! So much great stuff on here! Thank you!
I scrolled through this list and thought ‘my husband would love all of this!’. Sure enough I showed it to him and he wants it all! Great job David!
Hi! Love all this post and all Christmas gift suggestions! Do you recommend/ know of any certain kind of binoculars for a boater? Thanks so much!
I wish! Sorry, I just have cheap bushnells:/
Great post! Thanks for ALL the Awesome guy gift ideas! I have 6 men in my family to shop for who are all into the outdoors and these gifts I think any man would be happy to receive.
My dad is a huge fly fisherman with EVERYTHING and I can never find something for him. Fantastic ideas from vedavoo.
I got my vedavoo bag for Iceland and love it!
Love your gifts David! Love getting ideas from a guy’s point of view! And those shirts!! Love!
Love hearing from a guys persoective! Super helpful gift guide
Great gift guide! I’d love the receive some of the presents here, especially the cameras, wow! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Got the survival belt for my husband and thinking of the Rhône joggers. Torn on the size. He’s 6’2” usually wears a 36” pant with 32” inseam. He has an athletic build and somewhat big legs. Not sure if I should go large or x large. Thoughts? And thank you for this! So great to get a gift guide directly from a hubby!
Hmmm, tough. I’m the same way though, I usually wear 36″ waist but am a bit taller and have big legs too. I have XLs and they work out great for me, I think Large would end up being too small in the waist. Just my thoughts. He’s going to love the survival belt!
Can’t thank you enough!!
Ahhh I need gift ideas for the mid 30’s city business “indoorsman”. . I think this is the gift guide for the west coast 20’s husband, which is great too, but..
Hey you never know, I never realized how much I loved/needed the outdoors than when we lived in NYC. haha;)
Such a good post. Love having this from a guys perspective.
xo, Meghan | http://tanlinesanddaisies.com/
Great guide, david!! Love the new layout and how everything flows so nicely!!