Holiday Gift Guide: Expert Picks
This year, finding the right gift doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re looking for rugged outdoor gear used by our own Outdoor Discovery Programs (ODP) instructors, or cozy items loved by other customers, these products are well made to be well loved year after year.
4 Min. Read | Winter
Rugged Outdoor Essentials
By giving gifts that help your family and friends get outside more, they can get more from the time they spend outside. Check out these picks from some of our Outdoor Discovery Programs experts.
Katahdin Performance Flannel
"I love the quick dry material. It's soft and warm, yet I don't need to worry about breaking a sweat on a fall hike and then heading straight to dinner afterwards."
- Wendy P., ODP Instructor
Men's Water-Resistant Cresta Hiking Pants
“The pants are rugged but lightweight, dry very quickly, and offer zippered pockets. Can be used for hiking, camping, and even casual wear.”
- Mark A., ODP Instructor
Cresta Wool Midweight Hiking Socks
“They keep my feet dry, add an extra layer of tick prevention, and cushion my feet on those long day hikes through our nearby state parks.”
- Elisabeth S., ODP Instructor
Trailblazer 250 Headlamp
“Use one for nighttime chores around the campsite or for reading at night, and you'll be spoiled by the hands-free versatility. The red-light mode allows use without affecting anybody else’s night vision.”
- Gaeton A., ODP Instructor
Kahtoola Microspikes
“My must have for the in-between winter conditions of snow and ice when not enough snow for snowshoes. I use them frequently for leading winter hikes and I won't leave home without them - always in my car.”
- Dorothy, ODP Instructor
Packlite Chair
“This chair radically improves your evenings at the campsite after a long day canoeing, kayaking, or hiking. Light and packs up small enough to fit inside a kayak.”
- Bob F., ODP Instructor
Outdoor Blanket
“I keep this blanket in my car all the time. It enhances every outdoor experience, from picnics with friends to impromptu road trips. Beyond its practicality, this blanket is a vessel for cherished memories, making it an invaluable addition to my adventures.”
- Jane W., ODP Instructor
Stowaway Pack
“I’ve been using this lightweight and rip-resistant pack for 5+ years. There’s plenty of room for bins, maps, rain shell, first-aid kit, and more. Side pockets hold two nice size water bottles, and the outside back pocket holds a wet shell without getting everything inside wet.”
- Carl S., ODP Coordinator
Sleeping Bag – Flannel-Lined
“My granddaughter refers to her L.L.Bean Flannel-Lined Sleeping Bag as her ‘cozy camp bed’, because it's so soft and warm. That's high praise from her.”
- Connie T., ODP Program Coordinator
Cozy Favorites
The holidays are our moment to give, freely and fully – and share the simple joys that we feel from spending time with one another. We turned to the cozy experts themselves, our customers, for their favorite items that bring loved ones closer together and create memories that last far beyond this holiday season.
Deluxe Scrabble
“So happy we bought this deluxe set. Really well made and just love the swivel board with tile holders!!!”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Ultrasoft Comfort Flannel Bedding
“These flannel sheets are wonderfully soft and cozy.”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Sheepskin Throw Pillow
“This is an absolutely wonderful pillow. It's so soft and plush.”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Washable Wool Throw, Plaid 54" x 60"
“L.L.Bean quality shines through in this attractive and durable throw, and we love the fact that they can be monogrammed/personalized!”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Men's Mountain Classic Fleece Jacket
“Probably the single most-worn item of clothing I have.”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Double-Wall Camp Mug
“Keeps my coffee warmer than any of my other insulated mugs.”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Premium Dog Beds
“This is probably the best item I have ever bought from L.L.Bean. My dog jumped on the bed as it hit the floor and she has not gotten off it since then.”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Women’s Sherpa Fleece Jacket
“Having recently moved to a new and very cold climate, I'm looking forward to winter days with this brilliant jacket. So cozy and beautifully constructed.”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Cozy Sherpa Wearable Throw
“Received this as a gift and fell in love with it. It’s the perfect shawl to throw around your shoulders on a chilly evening. So soft! I loved it so much I bought one for a family member, who also fell in love with it.”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Men's WIcked Good Slippers
"They feel like your feet are surrounded by a cozy cloud."
-Verified L.L.Bean Customer
Wicked Plush Throw
“This plush throw is super soft and extremely comfortable. It is like being surrounded by a cloud. One of the best items we have ever bought. Everyone needs this throw!”
- Verified L.L.Bean Customer
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