You and Santa can Satisfy everyone for less than $100 each!
By Michael D’Angona
Many people receive gifts during the holidays … and they get put away, never to be used and ultimately forgotten. Don’t let your gifts to family and friends suffer the same fate. Give them goodies that serve a practical purpose, keep them safe, warm and dry, arm them with the tools to fix or carry things, and ultimately survive when bad times come their way.
Additionally, many of these life-enhancing gifts are rather inexpensive, especially when compared to the benefits that any one of them can provide in times of trouble. In fact, no item on this year’s list costs more than $100.
We hope this diverse, budget-friendly collection helps take some of the stress out of your gift-giving decisions this year. A word to the wise: With many companies still experiencing inventory and worker shortages, don’t wait to make your purchases, or you could miss out.
Adventure Medical Kits Sportsman Series 200
Overview
Outdoor activities can turn rough and tumble, and injuries can happen. Treat bumps, scrapes, bites, scratches and other minor injuries in the field with this comprehensive kit and get back to your fun without missing a beat. The Sportsman 200 includes such needed first aid categories as trauma supplies, wound care items, and blister and insect protection. Organized with a “find it first” design, you can even see supplies in the dark with its reflective additions. A comprehensive guide to wilderness and travel medicine is also included.
Specifications
- Group size: 1–4 people for 1–4 days of use
- High-quality tools and supplies
- Specially designed to treat sportsman-style injuries
- Easy-to-locate, red carrying bag
- External kit “map” is included
Rothco First Aid Kit
Overview
If you have an outdoors person on your list, you know they can suffer minor injuries out in Mother Nature’s domain. This year, give the gift of first aid in the form of this compact, military-style kit. Its three-sided zipper offers fast access to 20 useful and much-needed supplies. The pouch is super-strong, attaches easily to your belt and stores within a larger pack or bag until needed.
Specifications
- U-shaped zipper allows for easy access
- Durable, heavyweight canvas material
- Contains 20 top-quality first aid items
- Refillable contents are available for additional purchase
- Ideal for camping, hunting, fishing or any outdoor activity
URL
Rothco.com
Rothco Tactical Trauma Kit
Overview
Injuries come in all sizes and severities, from a small cut to an open wound that could lead to more-serious consequences. Because of this, a trauma kit should be in everyone’s home, vehicle, emergency bag or desk drawer. This kit from Rothco holds all the essentials for quick patch-ups up to stabilizing an injury until professional help arrives. From common needs such as bandages, tape, butterfly closures and sterile sponges to more injury-specific supplies such as burn gel, ammonia inhalants and EMT shears, this compact kit covers many bases. It’s available in black, ACU Digital Camo, Coyote Brown, MultiCam and traditional red colors.
Specifications
- Contains more than 40 essential first aid items
- MOLLE-compatible straps for extra gear attachment
- Supplies are organized with elastic bands and interior pockets
- Durable carrying pouch with full-length zipper access
- Full instructions included
URL
Rothco.com
SOL Rescue Flash Floating Mirror
Overview
This item from Survive Outdoors Longer makes a great gift for the adventurer in your family, especially if there’s a chance they can get lost and need to be rescued. This compact mirror produces huge results by attracting the attention of planes, helicopters or rescuers in the area. It features an aperture in the center for aiming, an integrated lanyard hole and a body that floats and is virtually indestructible.
Specifications
- Floats on water
- Signals rescuers up to more than 10 miles away
- Nearly unbreakable polycarbonate material
- Weighs only 0.7 ounce
- Instructions are printed on the back of the mirror
SOL Metal Signal Whistle 2-Pack
Overview
It’s difficult to believe that something so small and simple can save your life. But it’s entirely true—especially if you’re turned around and lost out in the wild. This whistle from Survive Outdoors Longer can emit an ultra-high piercing sound to alert rescuers to your location. Your screams can’t compete with this whistle, because it takes very little effort to accomplish successful results. Its compact design allows for easy carry around your neck, on your gear bag or even attached to a zipper pull. Don’t take a chance exploring without this life-saving tool!
Specifications
- Ideal for emergency and/or outdoor use
- Durable, all-metal construction
- Simple to use
- Integrated ring for keys or cordage
- Long-range, high-decibel sound
URL
Campsaver.com
Princeton Tec Aqua Strobe LED
Overview
The Aqua Strobe will grab rescuers’ attention on dry land, as well as on open water. Powered by one AA battery, the 360-degree strobe flashes 60 times per minute, and its night-piercing white light is visible up to 1 mile away. Its rugged polymer case and lens will hold up to rugged use and is water resistant to 100 feet. This is a great safety tool to keep in your pack and your vehicles. Choose from black, Rocket Red and Neon Yellow case colors.
Specifications
- Light output: 100 lumens
- Buoyant cone keeps light upright in water
- Hook-and-loop strap and lanyard are included
- Runtime: up to 12 hours
- Weight: 3.3 ounces
URL
PrincetonTec.com
Survive Outdoors Longer Traverse Survival Kit
Overview
This kit makes a great stocking stuffer for nearly anyone on your list. Contained within a durable tin is essential gear needed for survival or emergency scenarios. From a heat-reflecting blanket for the cold, a fire starter to create warmth to a whistle that can signal for help, this mini marvel can get you out of a bad situation or make your time during an emergency a bit more tolerable. Water purification tablets, a mini roll of duct tape and ready-to-use tinder round out this amazing pack.
Specifications
- Lightweight and compact kit
- Durable metal case
- Contains over a half dozen essential gear items
- Can be refilled and reused innumerable times
- Ideal for any sportsman or outdoorsman
URL
Cabelas.com
Survive Outdoors Longer Scout Mini Survival Kit
Overview
This is truly a gift for anyone on your list, because it can be used by nearly everyone if a survival situation comes their way. The “it-won’t-happen-to-me” mindset can change in an instant, and having this kit nearby helps out immensely. Contents include a survival blanket, signaling mirror, rescue whistle, fire-striker and compass, as well as a mini kits for fishing and sewing. The pouch, itself, is durable, and the opening rolls down, sealing moisture and water out and keeping the contents dry within.
Specifications
- Nearly a dozen key survival items are included
- Reclosable, water-resistant pouch
- Fits easily inside larger packs or bags
- Overall weight: 5.4 ounces
- Ideal for minimalist outdoor enthusiasts
URL
REI.com
Vigilant Trails Trekker Survival Kit
Overview
Compact and ready to go for any outdoor adventure, this kit contains essentials to cover six categories of survival, including fire, first aid, food, shelter, signaling and water. From ponchos to fire starters and first aid to tinder, cordage and more, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips when a situation goes from bad to worse. This kit is ideal for anyone who spends time in the outdoors. All the included items are guaranteed to perform—or the company will buy them back.
Specifications
- Compact and easy to carry
- Contains gear for six survival categories
- Each piece is field-tested for quality
- Kit will be replaced at no cost if it’s used in a verifiable survival scenario
5.11 Tactical RUSH 12 2.0 Backpack
Overview
This pack is not only full of features, it’s also highly economical for holiday gift-giving. This heavy-duty pack is at home while navigating a college campus or traversing through the wild. Its numerous pockets, sleeves and compartments help store a variety of gear and supplies needed for overnight or multiday trips. Padded shoulder straps and 5.11’s signature Center Line design offer comfort for the wearer and decrease fatigue. This pack is available in black, Double-Tap and Kangaroo colors.
Specifications
- Front lower pocket with internal slip and zippered pockets
- Constructed of high-strength, water-repellent 1050D nylon
- Padded laptop sleeve and dual internal mesh pockets
- Rear hydration compartment
- Hidden CCW compartment with loop panel
URL
511Tactical.com
Tough Built Massive Mouth Gear Bag
Overview
This bag is a great way to keep your EDC and other everyday essentials close at hand without making passersby any the wiser. The zipper is lockable and, when opened, provides instant access to all the items you’ve stowed within. It features 51 pockets and loops, so you’re sure to find the right spot to organize and protect everything. Rugged rubber feet and the rigid plastic HardBody combine to keep the bottom from being exposed to excessive wear and the elements.
Specifications
- Heavy-duty polyester fabric body
- Mesh pockets provide visibility of contents
- Capacity: 1,630 cubic inches
- Durable web straps with hook-and-loop organizer
- Dimensions: 11.5x20x10.5 inches
URL
Lowes.com
Rothco Everyday Work (EDC) Shoulder Bag
Overview
Keep all your personal items neat, organized and in their place with this incredible, everyday shoulder bag. This carry-all bag features compartments and pockets for your cellphone, pens, notepads, glasses, wallet and anything else you carry regularly throughout your day. Because of its seven zippered pockets, you won’t lose anything by chance along your way. Carry this bag like a briefcase, over your shoulder or in a cross-body style—it’s that versatile. Choose from black, brown or olive drab colors.
Specifications
- Durable, heavyweight cotton canvas material
- Dimensions: 8.75x5x11 inches
- Convenient top-carry handle with leather accents
- Features nine compartments and pockets
- Ideal for work, school, office or when traveling
URL
Rothco.com
Leatherman Curl Multi-tool
Overview
If your gift recipient is new to the multi-tool world, this item is a great place to start. Equipped with the tried-and-true components that put Leatherman on the map, there are two types of pliers, multiple cutters, a file, scissors, screwdriver, a can/bottle opener and more. This tool is ideal for everyday, around-the-house tasks—and then some. Carry it on a belt or clipped inside a pocket for quick access. This multi-tool is affordable and reliable, and its 25-year warranty covers all the bases.
Specifications
- Made of 420 HC stainless steel
- Includes 15 tools
- Weight: 7.50 ounces
- Outside-accessible features
- Carry with removable pocket clip or included nylon sheath
URL
Leatherman.com
Leatherman Bond Multi-tool
Overview
Like the “Goldilocks” story, this multi-tool is neither too large nor too small. It’s just right for everyday tasks around the house or on the jobsite. Its glimmering, stainless steel construction includes 14 essential tools, including pliers, contoured, comfortable handles, both hard wire and traditional wire cutters, an awl, can and bottle openers, a file, multiple screwdrivers and, of course, an ultra-sharp general cutting blade. Trusted Leatherman craftsmanship exudes from this tool, which offers smooth joints and easy tool access. An optional belt clip attachment is available for greater carry versatility.
Specifications
- 420HC knife blade
- Includes 14 essential tools
- Weighs only 5.8 ounces
- Lanyard ring is included for cordage attachment
- Includes nylon sheath for easy carrying
URL
Leatherman.com
Gerber Gear Lockdown Drive Tool
Overview
When it comes to tool versatility, this oddly shaped pocket tool is a marvel. It offers a mix of handy options, including a utility blade, flat knife, file, screwdriver and an awl. Its rectangular design fits easily into your pocket or gear bag and is built tough for everyday use. Its utility blade is replaceable, so you’ll always have a sharp edge for all your needs. This tool is perfect for the person who has everything!
Specifications
- Dimensions: 3.87×0.56 inches
- Low profile with modern esthetics
- Replaceable utility blade
- Removable pocket clip
- Weight: 4.50 ounces
URL
GerberGear.com
CRKT Squid Assisted Black Folder
Overview
Everyone needs a reliable pocketknife for everyday tasks, and the Squid is a great choice. This compact, fast-opening, all-around carry knife is there when you need cordage cut, tape sliced, containers opened and more. The Squid features an incredibly quick blade deployment, thanks to its efficient flipper. CRKT’s famous IKBS ball-bearing pivot system provides smooth and fluid blade movement. This folder’s durable, stainless steel handle welcomes daily punishment and, when needed, the stainless 8Cr14MoV blade comes back to super-sharp life with little effort.
Specifications
- Assisted-opening flipper
- High-carbon stainless steel blade
- Safe framelock construction
- Integrated lanyard hole
- Removable pocket clip
URL
CRKT.com
CRKT P.S.D. Folding Knife
Overview
This knife’s name stands for “particle. separation. device.” It means business when faced with any number of jobs around the house, office or backyard. It’s full-recurve blade and double grind ensure top performance when tackling tough materials, while its ergonomic, G10 handle provides a firm grip. This knife is not all brawn without beauty, because it features decorative accents, a carbon-fiber external handle layer and a brilliant-blue backspacer at the pivot. This is a gift that looks great—and works even better!
Specifications
- Assisted-opening flipper with IKBS ball-bearing system
- G10 handle with carbon-fiber layer
- 1.4116 stainless steel blade
- Integrated lanyard hole
- Removable, low-profile pocket clip
URL
CRKT.com
Kershaw Analyst Knife
Overview
Sometimes, a traditional pocketknife just won’t do, and that’s where the Analyst comes in. This tactical folder has a tanto blade with a partially serrated edge to combine penetrating thrusts with the ability to efficiently cut through all sorts of materials. Its SpeedSafe opening action combines with an ergonomic, glass-filled nylon handle to provide confident deployment and a full-handed grip. The linerlock allows the convenience of one-handed closure.
Specifications
- BlackWash-finished 8Cr13MoV steel, combination-edged tanto blade
- Opens quickly with SpeedSafe assisted opener
- Glass-filled nylon handle provides a sure grip during use
- Integrated lanyard hole
- 4-position, deep-carry pocket clip
Rothco Spec Ops Tactical Fleece Jacket
Overview
As the weather turns crisp, it’s time to turn to this great cold-weather jacket. This heavyweight fleece outerwear features five zippered pockets that are ideal for small item storage, a mandarin collar with an inside hanging hook, foldout cuffs with thumbholes and an all-around comfortable fit. Additionally, this jacket keeps your body heat in with both a tricot lining and a warm polyester outer layer. Choose from black, olive drab and Coyote Brown colors and seven sizes to accommodate everyone’s personal build.
Specifications
- 100% heavyweight polyester fleece shell
- Zippered closures with glove-friendly web loop pulls
- Shoulder and forearm yokes
- Interior tricot lining for additional warmth
- Foldout cuffs with thumbholes
URL
Rothco.com
Wazoo Survival Gear Cache Beanie
Overview
Wool is great to wear during the cold months, and this beanie doesn’t disappoint. However, this head covering offers a bonus in the form of a secret cache pocket with a credit card-sized amount of space. Keep a key or two, some cash and maybe a credit card, handcuff key, small compass or a signal whistle securely inside the discreet, “invisible” pocket. The beanie’s fine merino wool is one of the best options available today; it ensures warmth and comfort, even on the chilliest winter days. It’s available in blue, brown, olive, heather grey, black and charcoal grey.
Specifications
- 100% fine Italian merino wool
- 100% fleece interior lining
- Hidden pocket seamlessly integrates into the design
- Low-profile hook-and-loop closure
- Extra warm, with chunky, 3-inch cuff
Bombas Men’s Hiking Calf Socks
Overview
A good hike starts at the feet, and these socks deliver mile after mile of pleasurable travel with every step. With full cushioning and thermoregulating venting, these socks deliver on both comfort and performance when you’re out in the wild. They feature an intelligent design that offers seamless areas where needed and extra stitching in other areas for increased durability. Wear them while hiking or for your everyday travels. These socks are available in multiple colors and sizes.
Specifications
- Moisture-wicking construction
- Comfortable, seamless toe
- Honeycombed arch support
- Y-stitched heel
- Seamless toe
URL
Bombas.com
5.11 Tactical Decoy Pants
Overview
If you plan to buy someone pants this holiday season, make them tactical decoy pants so they can wear them year-round. These pants can switch from rugged long pants to comfortable shorts with just a couple quick unzips. They sport weather-resistant and moisture-wicking properties and feature eight diversely sized and configured pockets that allow you to stow all sorts of supplies, small gear items and even a snack when on the trail. Woven with a bit of stretch and outfitted with polyester mesh internal pockets, Decoy Pants have a 50+ UPF rating that makes them ideal for active pursuits in any environment.
Specifications
- 86% polyester, 14% elastane plain-weave material
- 50+ UPF rating
- Comfort waistband with zipper and snap closure
- Back body yoke utility pockets and concealed cargo pockets
- Articulated knees for comfort and ease of mobility
URL
511Tactical.com
Wazoo Survival Gear Cache Belt
Overview
Nearly everyone wears a belt sometimes, so the gift of giving a concealed cache belt is an excellent choice. Constructed of tough webbing and a steel buckle, this belt will last year after year, with little wear and tear. Inside, store small items and gear such as money, coins, keys, knives, survival gear or other small personal items that you need to keep close. The hook-and-loop closure ensures tight security, while the belt’s simple design will match most outfits for a discreet carry, no matter where you go. Multiple colors are available (the belt shown here is in Multicam).
Specifications
- Top-loading compartment with hook-and-loop closure
- Cerakoted stainless steel buckle
- Durable MIL-SPEC webbing exceeds 2,180-pound break test
- Paracord gear loop sewn into belt pocket
- Durable rubber ranger band tail-keeper
The Groove Belt
Overview
If you’re looking for something different—and better—to hold up your pants, take a look at the Groove Belt. Durable and strong enough to keep any load in place, it also has just the right amount of stretch to move with you during your daily activities (except maybe when grazing the local all-you-can-eat buffet). Once you’ve adjusted the length for the perfect fit, all you need to do in the future is line up the rare-earth neodymium magnets to cinch the belt. And, yes, this belt will support a holster.
Specifications
- Available in multiple color/buckle combinations
- A380 aluminum belt buckle
- Keep loop for excess length
- Adjusts size similarly to standard web belts
URL
GrooveLife.com