How to Choose Eco-Friendly Holiday Gifts for Little Adventurers

The holiday season is a time of joy and giving, and what better way to celebrate than by choosing gifts that are as kind to the planet as they are to our little ones? For families who love the outdoors, eco-friendly holiday gifts not only inspire adventure but also promote sustainability and a respect for nature. Here’s a guide to selecting thoughtful, eco-friendly holiday gifts that align with Play Outside’s values of sustainability and outdoor play.

1. Choose Sustainable Kids Clothing for Outdoor Play

When it comes to eco-friendly gifts, durable, sustainable clothing is one of the best choices you can make. Look for high-quality, versatile clothing that kids can use year-round for all their adventures. By choosing sustainable materials, you’re not only reducing waste but also investing in long-lasting items.

Our Pick: The Bamboo ONE Adventure Shirt from Play Outside. This shirt is made from eco-friendly bamboo, a renewable resource that’s soft, breathable, and durable for outdoor play in any season. Plus, bamboo’s natural moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties make it a great base layer for winter or a stand-alone shirt in warmer weather.

Pro Tip: Look for materials like organic cotton, bamboo, and recycled polyester, which have a lower environmental impact than conventional fabrics.

2. Support Mom-Owned, Eco-Conscious Brands

Supporting small, mom-owned businesses that prioritize sustainability is a great way to give back during the holidays. These brands often focus on ethical production practices, sustainable materials, and thoughtful designs that cater to adventurous kids.

Our Favorite Brands: In addition to Play Outside, consider brands like Bug and Bird for eco-friendly kids’ accessories, Keep the Littles Wild for nature-themed clothing, and Oma and Jo for minimalist designs with a focus on sustainability. Supporting small businesses means you’re not only giving a great gift but also helping these brands continue their mission of creating products that respect the earth.

3. Give the Gift of Outdoor Gear

Encourage outdoor play by gifting your little ones gear that makes exploring nature easy and fun. Whether it’s a child-sized backpack, a set of binoculars, or a nature exploration kit, outdoor gear sparks curiosity and helps kids build a love for the outdoors.

Our Pick: For a versatile backpack, try the REI Co-op Tarn 12 Pack, which is the perfect size for young adventurers. Pair it with an Adventure Notebook so they can document their outdoor findings and create memories with each trip!

Pro Tip: Look for outdoor gear made from recycled or sustainable materials, which help reduce environmental impact and teach kids the importance of eco-friendly choices.

4. Opt for Reusable, Eco-Friendly Accessories

Gifting reusable accessories like water bottles, snack bags, and storage containers not only reduces waste but also makes it easy for kids to carry their snacks and essentials on every adventure. These small but thoughtful gifts are practical, sustainable, and can be personalized for a special touch.

Our Pick: Eco Snack Bags are perfect for stashing trail snacks and lunch treats, and they’re washable and reusable, reducing the need for disposable bags. For water, try a Klean Kanteen stainless steel bottle—it’s durable, easy to clean, and designed to last through countless outdoor trips.

Pro Tip: Choose BPA-free, food-safe materials to keep snacks and drinks safe and fresh during outdoor adventures.

5. Books and Games That Celebrate Nature

Books and nature-themed games make great gifts that inspire curiosity and appreciation for the environment. They’re perfect for rainy days when outdoor play isn’t possible, and they help teach kids about nature, wildlife, and the importance of protecting our planet.

Our Pick: Look for beautifully illustrated books like The Nature Adventure Book or The Little Gardener by Emily Hughes, both of which encourage a love for the natural world. Pair it with an Adventure Journal so they can take notes and sketch what they find outside.

Pro Tip: Choose books printed on recycled paper or made by publishers committed to sustainable practices for an extra eco-friendly touch.

6. Nature-Inspired DIY Kits

Craft kits and DIY activities that incorporate natural materials, like rock painting or seed-planting kits, offer a hands-on way for kids to connect with nature. These kits are fun, educational, and provide a creative outlet for kids to explore their environment.

Our Pick: A DIY Seed-Starting Kit allows kids to plant and grow their own flowers or vegetables, teaching them about nature and responsibility. Pair it with  Eco Planters for a complete at-home gardening setup.

Pro Tip: Look for kits with sustainable packaging or ones that include biodegradable materials for a more eco-conscious choice.

7. Experiences and Adventures

One of the most meaningful gifts you can give is the gift of experiences. Plan a family hiking trip, an afternoon bird-watching, or even a backyard camping night. These adventures create lasting memories and help kids appreciate the outdoors in a hands-on way.

Our Pick: Gift a “Family Adventure Voucher” for a day trip to a local park or nature reserve. Pack a Bamboo ONE Adventure Shirt for each child to keep them comfortable, and bring along our Eco Snack Bags filled with treats for the journey.

Pro Tip: Pair an experience with a small gift, like a field guide or binoculars, so kids can use them on the outing and feel like true explorers.

Make This Holiday Season Eco-Friendly with Play Outside

This holiday season, make a positive impact by choosing eco-friendly holiday gifts that inspire adventure and align with your family’s commitment to sustainability. At Play Outside, we’re dedicated to creating eco-conscious clothing and accessories that support outdoor exploration and help kids connect with nature. From versatile bamboo shirts to durable snack bags, we have everything you need to outfit the little adventurers in your life.

Happy holidays from Play Outside—may your season be filled with joyful, sustainable giving and endless outdoor fun!

Love

- Adriana