Gift Ideas for Outdoor Lovers & Travelers

Christmas is fast approaching and if you're still hunting for presents,  this post is for you! :) Here are some  recommendations on what to give to your adventurous, wandering loved ones. 

Not celebrating Christmas? You can also make this part of your wish list or as a present for another occassion!:)

Note : I've excluded some items which I've already featured on previous years' lists (For more gift ideas, see past lists here, 2011 | 2013You'll still find most of them in the market! ;) 

1. TAKE THEM  OUT ON AN ADVENTURE!
Rockies peak, Mt. Maculot in Cuenca, Batangas
Mountain Hike
Do something fun and challenging together by visiting a mountain!
Here's a good resource on organizing a DIY hike, Top 6 Hiking Spots Near Manila Ideal for Romantic Dates  (Update : Pico de Loro which appears #5 on the list is  closed indefinitely for hiking activities.)

Spending a night out of town? Get discounts on unique accommodations here.  

Not much into hiking? Check this post by The Poor Traveler for other travel ideas, 15 Cheap but Awesome Destinations Near Manila

2. OUTDOOR BOOKS 
Day Hikes and Nature Walks from Manila - written by Pinoy Mountaineer, Dr. Gideon Lasco, this handy guidebook provides information, itineraries and topographic maps of worthwhile hiking destinations near Manila. 

Where to Buy : R.O.X. Marque Mall - Pampanga, R.O.X. Ayala Center – Cebu, and Solidaridad Bookshop in Padre Faura, Manila.
Price : 390 Pesos
For orders of 5 or more books, you can order by email at info@pinoymountaineer.com (with free delivery nationwide!)

AKYAT! A Filipino's Journey to the Seven Summits - through this book, veteran mountaineer, Romi Garduce shared his journey, struggles and anecdotes on climbing the highest peak of each of the seven continents, dubbed as the Seven Summits. He is the first and currently, the only Filipino to have completed this feat. 
Where to Buy : Central Bookstores, Amazon & R.O.X. stores. 
Price : 499 Pesos
Romi Garduce's team climbing Vinson Massif, highest peak in Antartica (Photo from Primer Group of Companies)
Inspired by these books to explore the outdoors? Click here to get good discounts on flights, hotels and vacation packages around the Philippines and overseas. 

3. A BOX OF TRAIL FOOD!
Make sure your loved ones are getting enough sustenance while they're out on an adventure. Look for  those that are easy to pack, low in sugar and high in protein such as energy gels, and sports bars. Brands I've tried are Nice & Natural (available in Rustan's Supermarket, Pioneer Center in Mandaluyong).  You can also find those in Healthy Options stores. Energy Gels are available in sports stores such as Toby's, R.O.X., Multi-sport stores (Stinger or GU works for me). Note : The effectiveness of energy gels varies from person to person. Do find out which brands they use before giving it to them. 
A sample of some of the food you can put in your gift box
4. TECHNICAL SOCKS 
Buying footwear for you loved ones can be a little tricky - it may not fit or  it just might not be their style. A safer alternative are a pair of socks. Specifically designed for hiking or running, these provide maximum comfort and offer extra protection from chaffing and injury. 

Here are two local brands which has good reviews online. 
Ahon 
Price Range : 399-1,200 Pesos/pair depending on model
Where to Buy :  Basekamp branches and online through their Facebook page, Ahon.PH.

Vamos Socks 
Price Range : 395 Pesos/Pair-795 Pesos (bundle of 3). 
Where to Buy : Visit their website, wearvamos.com for a list of retailers or to purchase online. 

5. BOOK THEM A FLIGHT 
Surprise them by flying them to their favorite destination or a place they've never been! 

Not sure which destinations to book? Check out this helpful article posted on recommendation from the travel gurus at Lonely Planet for their Best Destinations for 2017

Need to spend a night in Manila or in Hong Kong? Visit this link to avail of discounted hotel rates. 



Past adventures

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