# What do you buy someone going backpacking?

> Gift ideas for backpackers from our own long-trip gear: a daypack, walking shoes, a waterproof jacket and an action camera. What works for months on the road.

- Source: https://clevertourists.com/resources/gifts-for-backpackers
- Authors: Evan & Clara, Clever Tourists (first-hand, from years of travel across 20 countries)
- Published: 2026-10-19
- Last updated: 2026-10-27

**Backpackers need gear that survives months of use and packs small, so the best gifts are a daypack, comfortable walking shoes, real rain protection and, for the adventurous, a waterproof action camera.** All of these are on [our gear list](https://clevertourists.com/gear) from a 526-day trip.

## A daypack

The main pack stays at the hostel; the daypack goes everywhere. A 30-litre pack like the Herschel Little America carries a laptop, a jacket and water for a day out, and works as a personal item on most flights. A backpacker without a main pack yet would rather have the [Osprey Porter 46](https://clevertourists.com/resources/best-gifts-for-travelers).

## Shoes for walking all day

Most backpacking days are 15,000+ steps on stone streets. Light, cushioned trainers like the Adidas Runfalcon handle cities and easy trails, and for someone who likes minimalist shoes the Vivobarefoot range is on our list too. Buy shoes only if you know their size, or include a gift receipt.

## Rain and adventure

• **A waterproof jacket** that packs small is used in every climate, as a windbreaker in the mountains and a rain shell in the tropics.

• **A waterproof action camera** such as the GoPro HERO13 Black covers snorkelling, kayaking and motorbike loops where a phone would be at risk.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the most useful gift for a backpacker?

A good daypack or a packable waterproof jacket. Both get used every day of a long trip.

### Is a GoPro worth it for backpacking?

If they snorkel, dive, cycle or ride motorbikes, yes: it is waterproof and rugged where a phone is at risk. For city travel, a phone is usually enough.