Wrap It Right: Eco-Friendly Gift Wrapping for Outdoor Lovers
The holidays are here, and with them comes the annual battle between wrapping gifts beautifully and not feeling guilty about the waste. The good news? You can have it all—thoughtfully wrapped presents that look stunning and align with your love for the outdoors. All it takes is a little creativity and a planet-first mindset.
Here’s how to wrap it right this season, with nature-inspired, eco-friendly ideas that will impress your loved ones and leave Mother Earth smiling.
Think Outside the Box (Literally!)
Skip the shiny, single-use wrapping paper (which often contains plastic) and use materials you already have. Old maps, hiking trail guides, or even leftover campsite brochures make unique, adventure-themed wraps that are as memorable as the gift itself. Add a sprig of pine or dried flowers for that extra outdoorsy touch.
Bag It Beautifully
Reusable cloth bags are a gift in themselves! Wrap your presents in bandanas, scarves, or even camp towels. You can find beautiful options at thrift stores or grab outdoor-themed prints from your favorite sustainable brands. Secure with twine or reusable bungee cords for a rugged yet charming vibe.
Nature’s Finishing Touches
Skip the store-bought bows and tags and look to nature for inspiration. Pinecones, acorns, cedar sprigs, and even feathers make fantastic decorations. Tie them onto your package with natural jute twine or strips of fabric for a rustic, outdoorsy feel.
DIY Upcycled Wrapping Paper
Got paper bags, outdated calendars, or brown packing paper lying around? Turn them into custom wrapping with stamps or stencils. For the adventurous souls, add sketches of mountains, trees, or wildlife—or let the kids doodle their favorite outdoor memories to make it even more special.
Go Naked (Your Gifts, That Is)
Sometimes the simplest option is best: don’t wrap at all! Use a reusable gift box, basket, or tin that your recipient can repurpose later. Outdoor gear like stuff sacks, dry bags, or camp cookware also make fantastic gift containers—practical and zero-waste.
Skip the Tape
Traditional tape is a sneaky environmental villain. Try folding paper neatly and securing it with twine, cloth strips, or reusable clips. It gives your gifts a polished, rustic look and keeps your conscience clear.
Compostable Creativity
If you must use paper, opt for 100% recycled and compostable options. When the festivities are over, toss the paper in your compost bin and call it a win for the planet.
Gift the Outdoors
For the outdoor lover who has everything, consider skipping material gifts altogether and giving experiences instead. Book your loved one a camping trip to one of the beautiful Spacious Skies Campgrounds (psst… use code SOLSTICESAVINGS to save 25% through January 2), gift a national park pass, or a guided nature tour. These make exceptionally meaningful gifts with zero wrapping required. (And a perfect option for the last-minute shopper!)
This holiday season, let’s show a little love to the planet while celebrating the ones we hold dear. With these eco-friendly wrapping ideas, you’ll deliver gifts that are not only beautiful but also reflect the spirit of adventure and sustainability.
Happy wrapping, and remember: It’s what’s outside that counts, too!
