Photo by Tom Merton via iStock
A budget of $1,000 for holiday shopping is a robust amount of money. Of course, when you’re shopping for someone who loves overlanding or off-roading, a $1,000 can disappear quickly! That means you want to stretch your dollars and get the most bang for your buck.
Well, these gifts do just that!
These gifts under $1,000 for outdoor enthusiasts provide all kinds of utility and functionality. Some even improve your loved one’s comfort level while they spend time outdoors. From air conditioning for their tent to better tires for their vehicle to improved battery management, there are all sorts of gift possibilities for 2023!
Gifts Under $1,000: Inergy FLEX Battery
If you have a loved one who’s already invested in the Inergy FLEX 1500 power station, getting them an additional battery is money well spent.
I have the FLEX 1500 power station and three FLEX batteries, giving me 3,000 watts of available power. While that might seem like a lot of batteries, you can actually stack up to five batteries together and expand the system to up to 96 batteries. That’s a lot of power!
Adding batteries is super simple, too – it’s a plug-and-play system in which the batteries automatically connect when their voltages are within range and equalize to give you long-lasting power.
These batteries can be charged via AC or DC power. They’re also solar compatible, and you can use each of these charging systems simultaneously to reduce total charging time. Nice!
My three FLEX batteries stacked below the FLEX 1500 Power Station.
Better still, the FLEX batteries have all sorts of integrated safety features to ensure proper operation. There are multiple temperature sensors for smart cooling and an emergency shut-off control. The integrated battery management system monitors each cell string individually, too, which protects from temperature fluctuations, over-discharge, over-charge, and short-circuiting.
At 14″ x 8″ x 4.7″ in size and about 16 pounds, these batteries are compact and lightweight enough that you can easily maneuver them from your vehicle to the location where you’ll have the FLEX 1500 power station. And with a two-year warranty, you can use them with the peace of mind that Inergy backs up their products.
As I discuss in the video above, I’ve been wholly impressed with my Inergy power station and batteries thus far. Having clean, reliable, near-silent power generation while I’m out camping is a major bonus for someone like me who often has to work on the go.
With an additional battery for their Inergy system, your loved one can extend the amount of time they have power or power even more devices while they’re adventuring. Not bad, right?!
Editor’s note: These batteries are in high demand and might be backordered when you visit the Inergy website. Inergy’s FLEX 1500 Tactical battery is a fantastic alternative if that’s the case.
Learn more about the Inergy FLEX battery
Gifts Under $1,000: Autoterm 2kw Diesel Air Heater
One of the ultimate gifts for the dedicated overlanding aficionado in your life is a diesel air heater. Trust me, I’ve had the exact model installed in my Turtleback Expedition Trailer for a couple of years now, providing indispensable warmth to my rooftop tent. It has truly transformed my outdoor experience!
The diesel air heater offers the advantage of instant, dry heat for your tent, camper, or van. With this dry heat, you can bid farewell to concerns about condensation, ensuring your clothing and bedding remain dry and comfortable.
Furthermore, since the heating unit is positioned outside your sleeping quarters, worries about carbon monoxide poisoning are greatly reduced. In my case, the diesel air heater is installed in the front section of my trailer, as depicted above, with the heat being ducted up to my rooftop tent. As a result, I enjoy fantastic warmth without any risk of poisoning or exposure to exhaust fumes.
Throughout the past year, I’ve used this heater in diverse locations and under various weather conditions, and it has consistently performed admirably, providing me with a snug and cozy tent to sleep in. Its outstanding reliability and user-friendly operation are qualities that your loved one will undoubtedly cherish in a Christmas gift!
This particular unit can operate on either 12-volt or 24-volt power and runs on diesel fuel. With 2kw of power output, it delivers an ample amount of heat (7,000 BTUs), even in the harshest winter camping conditions when outdoor temperatures plummet. Additionally, its fuel efficiency is impressive, consuming just about one liter of fuel for every five hours of operation, allowing you to stay comfortably warm without depleting your fuel supply. You can witness this remarkable heater in action in my video here:
One of the standout features of this diesel air heater is its wired controller unit (available in both digital and analog options). Regardless of your choice, you can conveniently adjust the heater’s settings from the warmth of your bed or sleeping bag. On those frosty winter mornings when you crave a little extra heat before rising, having a remote controller for a heater like this is a true blessing.
What’s more, this heater is remarkably easy to install and functions flawlessly at high altitudes, making it indispensable for those like me who frequently camp in mountainous terrain. It’s impressively quiet as well, allowing for a peaceful night’s rest while it operates—a claim not all diesel heaters can make!
This heater has undoubtedly been one of the most valuable additions to my overlanding setup, and it’s poised to do the same for the overlanding enthusiast on your holiday shopping list!
Learn more about the Autoterm 2kw Diesel Air Heater
Gifts Under $1,000: EcoFlow Glacier
The EcoFlow Glacier is a versatile marvel that’s not just a refrigerator but also a freezer and an ice maker, all rolled into one. With a generous 38-liter capacity, it offers ample space to store your loved one’s food and beverages for those exciting overlanding adventures. What’s more, its extended runtime of up to 40 hours ensures that provisions stay refreshingly cool throughout the entire weekend.
But here’s the real kicker – the built-in ice maker is a game-changer! It churns out 18 ice cubes in just 12 minutes, so you and your loved ones can enjoy chilled drinks in no time. Imagine firing it up, preparing your evening beverages, and by the time you’re ready, a fresh batch of ice is ready to elevate your experience.
The fridge-freezer compartment is equally impressive, featuring independent temperature controls for each side. Each can be configured as a refrigerator or a freezer, with temperatures ranging from -13 degrees to a toasty 50 degrees.
What sets the Glacier apart is its rapid cooling capability. When empty, it can swiftly cool from 86 degrees to a refreshing 32 degrees in just 15 minutes. Plus, since it’s a standalone unit, you enjoy all these benefits without the need for constant power sources.
In fact, it goes above and beyond with its integrated 100W USB-C port, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop directly from the fridge. Yes, you read that right – your fridge can power your devices! It also boasts convenient remote control via Bluetooth and WiFi, integrated wheels for effortless transport, and versatile power options, including DC, AC, or solar power compatibility.
This is the must-have overlanding companion that adds convenience and luxury to any outdoor escapades. Don’t miss out on the Glacier for the overlanding enthusiast on your holiday shopping list! It’s a game-changing addition to any camping or overlanding gear collection!
Learn more about the EcoFlow Glacier
Gifts Under $1,000: Ultimatron 100ah Lithium-Ion Battery
When gearing up for an extended off-grid adventure, your trailer’s battery should be the least of your concerns. Unfortunately, many off-road trailers come equipped with conventional AGM batteries that fall short in terms of performance and power compared to their lithium-ion counterparts.
That’s precisely why the Ultimatron Lithium Battery is a perfect choice for the avid overlander on your holiday gift list!
These lithium iron phosphate batteries promise an extended service life, ensuring that your gift will continue to provide value for years to come. Not only are they a reliable choice, but they are also exceptionally safe, boasting state-of-the-art technology that eliminates the risk of fire or explosion. Furthermore, they demonstrate remarkable stability even under the most demanding loads.
As I discuss in the video above, unlike AGM batteries, lithium batteries like these do not suffer from a memory effect. This means there’s no need for full charge and discharge cycles. You can confidently deplete these batteries to zero and recharge them within hours. Thanks to the integrated battery management system, you can rest assured that the battery’s power is efficiently managed, guarding against overheating, overcharging, and overvoltages.
What’s more, this battery offers Bluetooth connectivity and even includes a built-in heater!
Even in extreme conditions, such as scorching heat or bitter cold, this battery delivers exceptional performance. It’s precisely this level of reliability and performance that your loved one will treasure most about this gift! The compact size and relatively low weight add to its appeal.
With the Ultimatron battery, you’re not only giving a remarkable gift but also peace of mind, thanks to the included five-year manufacturer’s warranty. So, make this holiday season unforgettable with the gift of the Ultimatron 100Ah Lithium Battery!
Learn more about the Ultimatron 100ah Lithium-Ion Battery
Gifts Under $1,000: MSR Habitude 6 from BTR Outfitters
If you’re shopping for someone who loves a good tent camping trip with their family or friends, the MSR Habitude 6 from BTR Outfitters is an excellent holiday gift idea!
This tent sleeps up to six adults and offers 83 sq. ft. of living space, in addition to 24.5 sq. ft. of vestibule space for taking off shoes before entering the tent. Once inside, your loved one can enjoy nearly 77 inches of peak headroom to move around inside the tent.
As you’d expect from MSR, this tent is built like a tank. Strong fabrics, sturdy pole geometry, and YKK stainless steel zippers ensure this tent stands up to the rigors of use and abuse. In fact, the canopy is made of 68D taffeta polyester and DWR, while the floor is constructed of 68D taffeta polyester 10,000mm polyurethane and DWR.
The rain fly is robustly made, too. The 68D ripstop polyester 1500mm polyurethane and DWR fabric is strong, lightweight, and waterproof.
The MSR Habitude 6 is also easy to set up. The tent features a simple design with subbed poles and color-coded pole clips so it’s easy to determine which pole goes where. Setup takes just a few moments – an important quality if your loved one is caught in foul weather!
This tent also has features that make it much more livable. For example, there are storage pockets inside – one for each person – and extra hang loops for larger items. The integrated porch light is a nice feature for finding your way back to the tent after the sun goes down. In other words, this is one heck of an upgraded tent for your favorite overlanding enthusiast!
Learn more about the MSR Habitude 6 from BTR Outfitters
Gifts Under $1,000: Zero Breeze Mark 2
For many camping enthusiasts, summer trips can be a little miserable due to the heat. So why not help them out with that by giving them the gift of air conditioning?
The Zero Breeze Mark 2 unit (battery not included) is priced below $1,000 but punches way above its weight class by providing a far more comfortable camping experience with 2,300 BTUs of cooling power. In fact, this unit can drop the immediate air temperature around you by 30 degrees in certain conditions. Nice!
The unit works on AC power, solar, 12V, or a power station, but if you want to add more portability, you or your loved one can invest in a battery system that provides up to eight hours of runtime, depending on the specific settings.
Speaking of portability, this unit is easy to move around camp. It has a large integrated handle on top, and since it weighs just 16.5 pounds, you don’t have to be a bodybuilder to get it out of your vehicle and set it up in your tent.
I’ve field-tested this unit in a variety of camping situations, and I’ve been thoroughly impressed by its performance.
While it won’t cool a large camper, it works great for making my rooftop tent a more comfortable environment when I’m summer camping. I’ve also tested it in a teardrop trailer, and it worked very well for that application, too. An area roughly 25-40 sq. ft. is an ideal candidate for this unit.
Though fall is here and winter will be here before we know it, investing in an air conditioner now means your loved one will be ready for those early-season hot-weather camping adventures next year!
Learn more about the Zero Breeze Mark 2
Gifts Under $1,000: Set of Milestar Patagonia M/T-02 Tires
If you’re considering a gift for your off-roading or overlanding enthusiast, there’s no better time than now to surprise them with a present that keeps on giving!
A while back, I decided to upgrade my vehicle’s tires, replacing my Nitto Trail Grapplers with a set of Milestar Patagonia tires, and I can’t express enough how impressed I’ve been with their outstanding performance, both on and off the road.
These tires feature cross-direction siping, enhancing the strength of the tread blocks. This unique siping design provides added resilience in various conditions, including muddy, rainy, and snowy terrain.
What sets Milestar Patagonia tires apart is the incorporation of a robust three-ply sidewall technology known as MILETECH. This innovation not only enhances the tires’ rigidity but also ensures their long-term durability. Moreover, these sidewalls exhibit exceptional pliability and flexibility, a crucial advantage when you need to deflate the tires for improved traction, as I discuss in detail in my video below.
In addition to their structural prowess, these tires boast a silica-based compound integrated into the tread, delivering enhanced resistance against chipping, improved cut resistance, and an extended tread life. The tire’s aggressive tread design, with ample voids between the treads, facilitates the self-cleaning process, allowing the tires to efficiently shed mud and debris.
Speaking of debris, Milestar has gone the extra mile by incorporating stone ejectors within the tread pattern, ensuring that stones are expelled rather than lodged in the tread. This ingenious feature contributes to improved traction, complemented by the strategically angled biting edges on the tires. Learn more about these tires in my video below:
To further sweeten the deal, Milestar offers these tires with a center rib design, enhancing on-road comfort. With an extensive range of nearly three-dozen different tire sizes to choose from and a track record of stellar customer reviews, these tires make for an exceptional gift choice for the adventure-seeker on your holiday shopping list.
Consider gifting them a full set of four tires, and you’ll remain well within your $1,000 budget while ensuring they’re fully equipped and ready for their next expedition!
Learn more about Milestar Patagonia tires
Gifts Under $1,000: REDARC Weekend Escape Battery Charger Kit
If you’re in search of the perfect gift for someone who relishes short overlanding getaways to escape the daily grind, look no further than the REDARC Weekend Escape Battery Charger Kit.
What makes this kit truly exceptional is its ability to provide overlanders with the creature comforts they desire while remaining off the grid. Are you craving a cold fridge during your adventure? Absolutely achievable! How about having fresh food on hand? You’re covered! Need to power an inverter? No problem at all!
This kit is designed as a dual-battery setup, equipped with everything required to seamlessly integrate a second battery into a vehicle (batteries are not included). This additional battery can then power essential accessories like a fridge, an inverter, or other 12v devices. When you’re on the move, the kit ensures that both batteries remain charged, prioritizing eco-friendly power sources. Plus, when you set up camp, simply place a solar blanket on the ground to harness solar energy and recharge the batteries.
With the inclusion of a dual voltage monitoring gauge, monitoring the battery performance has never been easier. You can effortlessly keep a close watch to ensure that the voltage remains within the optimal range, preventing any issues related to undercharging or overcharging.
Embarking on off-grid camping adventures is all about embracing freedom and self-sufficiency, and with the REDARC Weekend Escape Battery Charger Kit, you can offer exactly that!
Learn more about the REDARC Weekend Escape Battery Charger Kit
Gifts Under $1,000: Warn VR EVO 10-S Winch
When it comes to critical gear for overlanders and off-roaders, a reliable winch is an absolute must-have, and Warn is the brand you can trust.
This standard-duty winch is a game-changer, featuring a synthetic rope and an impressive 10,000-pound capacity that’s ideal for large SUVs, Jeeps, and 1/2-ton trucks. Its series-wound motor and planetary gear train ensure lightning-fast operation even under heavy loads. Additionally, it’s equipped with a high-performance Albright contactor for unbeatable reliability.
Warn has gone the extra mile to provide outstanding durability, granting this winch an IP68-rated waterproof rating. It comes complete with a versatile two-in-one remote, a robust cast-aluminum tie-plate, and the added peace of mind of a limited lifetime warranty.
This is truly a gift that keeps on giving, offering the lucky recipient on your holiday shopping list something they’ll cherish and depend on for years to come. What more could you ask for in a gift?
Learn more about the Warn VR EVO 10-S Winch
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