10 Must-Have Outdoor Gifts for Adventure-Loving Babies: A Comprehensive Guide for Little Explorers
If you have a little one in your life who seems to have been born with an adventurous spirit, always ready to explore the great outdoors, then look no further! We have created the ultimate gift guide for outdoorsy babies that will help nurture their love for nature and keep them happily engaged during every outdoor escapade. From gear essentials to sleep essentials, this guide is packed with thoughtful and practical gift ideas that are sure to delight both the baby and their adventurous parents. So, let's dive in and discover the perfect gifts to inspire and support the little explorer in your life!
1. Base Layers
The most crucial piece of clothing an adventure baby can own is solid base layers. When choosing a material to gift, you want to look for options that will wick moisture away - so not a cotton base. Our personal favorites are merino wool layers! They are soft, warm, and durable. Smartwool is an affordable option, high quality, and I love their 2 year warranty program. Smartwool clothing options only go as small as 2T, so that does make it difficult for young babies. Iksplor is another great option. Although this brand is on the higher end, they do have a pre-loved selection where you can shop and sell used gear. L.L.Bean also has a very affordable option made with synthetic materials, and a one year warranty. After the base layers, a baby could then be placed in a super cute fleece bunting and would stay nice and cozy during any winter activity!
2. A Great Framed Carrier
Framed child carriers are the perfect gift for adventurous families, offering comfort and convenience on outdoor excursions. The Osprey Poco lt, with its lightweight design and adjustable suspension system, ensures a comfortable fit for both parents and child. The Kelty Journey excels in its versatility, and ample storage compartments for snacks and gear. For those seeking premium quality, the Thule Sapling boasts an ergonomic design and adjustable hip belt that distributes weight evenly. These carriers provide the ideal solution for families who love to explore the great outdoors, making unforgettable memories while keeping their little ones safe and close at hand.
3. A Comfortable Soft Structured Carrier
Soft structured baby carriers have become an increasingly popular gift choice for new parents. These carriers offer a convenient and comfortable way to keep their baby close while providing support for both the parent and the child. Among the top choices in this category are the Baby Bjorn baby carriers, known for their ergonomic design and ease of use. The Ergobaby Omni 360 is another highly sought-after option, offering multiple carrying positions and adjustable features to ensure a perfect fit. Additionally, the Boppy Baby Carrier Hybrid has gained popularity for its innovative convertible design, allowing parents to switch between front and back carrying positions. With their stylish designs, durability, and thoughtful features, these soft structured carriers make for an excellent gift choice for new parents.
4. Sleeping Bag
Baby sleeping bags are often overlooked items, thus making perfect gifts for new parents or parents with young children. They provide a safe and cozy environment for infants to sleep in, ensuring a peaceful night's rest for both baby and parents. One fantastic option is the Morrison Outdoors Little Mo sleeping bag, which is specifically designed for outdoor adventures and is made with high-quality materials. Another excellent choice is the Reima Down Sleeping Snowsuit, which combines the warmth of a snowsuit with the comfort of a sleeping bag. Lastly, the ErgoPouch Sleep Sack offers versatility and practicality with its award winning, easy-to-use design, and organic cotton fabric. All three options provide the reassurance that babies are snug and secure during winter nights, making these sleeping bags delightful Christmas gifts.
5. Mittens, Hats, Socks and Booties
A child’s hands, head, and feet are the most important parts of the body to consider. In the winter, nothing stops an adventure faster than a child having cold hands or feet! Having head cover with built in neck cover, like this balaclava, ensures that a child’s head and neck will stay out of the elements - plus everything stays on without needing constant tucking or adjusting! During the summer, it is critical to keep a babies head out from the sun. A nice afternoon sun hat will allow a baby to safely enjoy the sun protected; plus it is also moisture wicking, floatable, and stain resistant.
We have tried all forms of mittens, and our favorite are fully waterproof, lined with fleece, and long enough that snow won’t fall in or won’t need constant adjusting. These Reima mittens are made for outdoorsy kids to stay out in the snow for long durations. As we mentioned before, wool is moisture wicking.
Wool socks are perfect for children because they are naturally insulating, regulate temperature effectively, and wick away moisture, keeping little feet warm, dry, and comfortable throughout the day. We put these Smartwool size small on our infant, and our oldest wears them too. On top of those well-insulated feet should be a nice pair of booties. If the baby you are shopping for is crawling or walking, booties will help keep the feet dry and warm. Most infant snowsuits will begin to loose insulation or it will get pushed into the wrong areas - so added protection will keep those extremities safe. These Reima insulated booties cinch at the ankle so you don’t have to worry about constantly putting them back on.
6. Camping Chair
Another perfect gift for an outdoorsy family would be a baby camping chair! These pint-sized chairs are specifically designed to provide comfort and safety for little adventurers. With durable materials and a compact foldable design, they are easy to carry and set up, making them ideal for camping trips, beach outings, and backyard picnics. Baby camping chairs not only offer a cozy spot for the little ones to sit and relax, but they also promote independence and a love for the great outdoors. Whether they are enjoying s'mores by the campfire or watching the waves crash on the shore, these chairs will undoubtedly become a beloved addition to any outdoorsy family's gear collection. A chair like the Baby Delight Go with Me is great for an independent, foldable-style, high chair, or relaxing chair. We personally have the Pop ‘N Sit chair, which is great for those with good head control - wiggle-worms might fall right out though. For younger babies, we also have the Inglesina Fast Table Chair (and personally use it at home as a regular high chair as well).
7. Snow and rain Suits
If you're searching for the perfect gift for an outdoorsy baby, you might want to consider a snow suit or a rain suit. These practical and thoughtful gifts will not only keep the little one cozy and comfortable, but also protected from the unpredictable elements. A snow suit, like the Reimatec Snowsuit, is ideal for those wintry adventures, ensuring that the baby stays warm during snowy hikes or playful snowball fights. The fabric is super durable and long-lasting, made to be water and windproof, all while still being breathable. On the other hand, a rain suit is perfect for those drizzly days spent splashing in puddles or exploring muddy trails. With their durable and waterproof materials, both suits offer peace of mind to parents while allowing the baby to embrace and enjoy the wonders of nature. Whether it's building snowmen or dancing in the rain, gifting a snow suit or rain suit is an excellent choice for nurturing the adventurous spirit of an outdoorsy baby.
8. Portable Sound Machine
When searching for the ideal gift for an adventurous family, you might consider a portable sound machine. This compact and versatile device is a must-have for any family constantly on the go, especially with babies! Whether embarking on a camping trip, a beach vacation, or a road adventure, the portable sound machine enables the family to create their own tranquil oasis in any location. This Yogasleep Hushh white noise machine has a variety of soothing nature sounds, such as ocean waves, forest rain, or chirping birds, this gift not only drowns out unwanted noise but also revitalizes the spirit, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. Additionally, the sound machine can lull restless children to sleep, allowing the whole family to enjoy a peaceful night's rest no matter where they are. Its lightweight and portable design make it easy to pack in a backpack or carry-on, ensuring that the family brings a sense of tranquility wherever their adventures take them. With a portable sound machine, the gift of serenity and relaxation is just a button away for the adventurous family in your life.
9. Hygiene + First Aid
When it comes to gift-giving, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding unique and extravagant presents. However, amidst the frenzy of shopping, we often forget about practical and essential items like hygiene and first aid products. These seemingly mundane gifts may not elicit the same initial excitement, but for adventurous families, they are treasures. From hiking in the mountains to exploring remote beaches, these families take on exciting and sometimes risky adventures. Hygiene and first aid products become their reliable companions, ensuring their safety and wellbeing in unforeseen circumstances. They even make cute ones, like this bear-themed medical kit that easily attaches to a backpack with a carabiner. So, next time you're searching for a gift, consider the practicality and thoughtfulness of these items. They may not be flashy, but they will surely be appreciated by those who create unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.
10. Balance Bike
While it may seem impractacle to give a bike to a young child who has yet to master pedaling, it's never too early to start on a balance bike. These specially designed bikes are perfect for helping children develop balance, coordination, and confidence before transitioning to a traditional bicycle. With their lightweight construction and absence of pedals, balance bikes allow children as young as 18 months to learn how to balance on two wheels, paving the way for a smoother and more enjoyable biking experience in the future. So, why not consider giving the gift of a balance bike? It's an investment in a child's development and a foundation for a lifetime of cycling adventures.
This gift guide for outdoorsy babies is abundant in amazing products that will delight both the little ones and their adventurous families. From cozy and durable clothing to innovative and versatile gear, these items are designed to enhance outdoor experiences and create lasting memories. However, the realm of outdoor exploration is vast, and there may be hidden gems that this guide has missed. We encourage you to leave a comment below and share your favorite products or recommendations for adventurous families. Together, we can continue to expand and enrich the world of outdoor adventures for our little ones. Happy exploring!