In the woods, skills are decidedly more important than gear; however, some gear is necessary--and having the right equipment can really make life in the field a lot more enjoyable and safer.
Contrary to what most gear gift guides will try to tell you, the newest, most expensive gear is NOT always the best gear. I shouldn't continue to waste energy getting annoyed with lists that just push the newest, most hi-tech, and expensive gear as if it's the best thing since sliced bread, but I often do. Speaking of which, we actually have included some tasty, thick, camp bread (which you'll need a quality knife to slice!) on our list!
All that being said, I compiled a list of a few of my favorite items for general outdoor use to keep in mind when you're looking for gift ideas for the bushman or woods girl in your life. Based on BMP's modified 10 Essentials list, you can't go wrong with this gear:
2014 Outdoorsman Holiday Gift Guide
1. Planning
NOLS Expedition Planning (NOLS puts out a lot of outdoor skill guides, but this is a great starting point for adventure planning)
Nat Geo maps (here's one to Nat Geo's Boundary Waters Map Pack)
Delorme Atlas & Gazetteer (available for all states; here's a Minnesota Atlas)
2. Clothing
3. Water/Hydration System
4. Navigation & Illumination
5. Fire
6. Tools
7. Shelter
Poncho/tarp (not my first choice for rain gear, but a great multi-purpose item to keep in your pack)
Marmot tent (served me well on many trips)
8. First Aid & Personal Care
9. Signals
10. Food
Brown bread in a can (a must try…taste best cold with a good coating of butter)