2008 Inexpensive Outdoor Holiday Gifts
Gift Cards, Training, Memberships, and Ideas to Stretch a Dollar
During these difficult economic times, shoppers may wonder how it is possible to find an inexpensive outdoor gift idea for a friend or loved one. The following are ideas for those who want to get a meaningful outdoorsy gift for that special someone without having to pay a lot of money.
Gift Cards for Gear Stores
A gift card is a great way to show that one cares, and not have to spend a lot of money. The advantage is that it takes the guesswork out of the process. The recipient can spend the money on the card for something he or she want. Also, one doesn’t have to put a lot of money on the card. A twenty-dollar gift card can be a reasonable amount. Major retailers such as REI and EMS offer gift cards. Local gear shops may offer them or gift certificates as well.
Outdoors Training as a Gift Idea
Give the gift of knowledge in the form of a free class or contribute a certain amount towards an outdoors course or class. Training courses are offered through local guide services, or a national organization such as Outward Bound or the National Outdoor Leadership School. Some ideas include:
- Medical training, such as Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder.
- Survival training.
- Primitive living skills.
- Technical skills, such as in rock climbing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, or mountaineering.
Memberships in Outdoors Organizations
Provide a one-year membership for an outdoor organization. These groups offer community, structure, and opportunities for like-minded people to enjoy the outdoors. Memberships could include a local hiking club, an environmental education center, or an advocacy organization such as Leave No Trace.
Buy an Outdoors-Oriented Magazine or Book
A one-year subscription to a magazine is another good gift idea. Publications such as Outside Magazine or Backpacker Magazine are oriented towards those interested in hiking and camping. For books, there are plenty of how-to books, guidebooks, and personal accounts in circulation to keep that outdoorsy person hooked. REI has an excellent book selection.
Provide an Outdoor Experience
Perhaps money is so tight that it is not possible to buy a gift at all. What about giving the gift of knowledge? Take a friend or family member on a hike, or a child on his or her first overnight camping trip. Teach what to bring on a hike, how to navigate cross-country using a map and compass, or how to build a campfire. The memories from these adventures will be worth far more than any gift, and last longer as well.
Save Money This Holiday Season
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