Article:
Holiday Gift Guide for LARPers

Many LARPers consider themselves to be connoisseurs of their sport. Finding out exactly what a LARPer might want for the holidays may involve a bit of creativity (determining what a costume is missing) and even some reconnaissance (sending in other LARP buddies to find out what the LARPer needs). While costuming is an obvious choice as a gift for a LARPer, LARPers require practical and mundane items as well.

 The basic supplies. Duct tape is a LARPer’s best friend. It can temporarily repair a busted boffer tip, tarps, staged scenery and can even hold torn clothing together in a pinch. LARPers often use duct tape in non-silver colors to look as in-game as possible. Brown, black, green and blue tape varieties are always useful. Beyond duct tape, responsible LARPers also bring with them extra supplies such as bottled water, a sewing kit and band-aids.

Camping supplies. For LARPers who camp out at weekend-long events, camping supplies are continually useful. Consider purchasing camping gear such as: tents, sleeping bags, fire pit cooking kit, blankets, air mattresses, coolers, snacks, coffee, backpacks, plastic bins for LARP gear and battery-operated lanterns.

Winter LARP gear. It’s important for LARPers to have the right gear for winter weather to avoid hypothermia and general distraction from LARP combat and camaraderie. In many climates, winter gets severe right around the holidays, so it’s perfect timing for a LARPer to receive some warm and comfortable gear (toss in some hot chocolate mix for the win).

Winter LARPs are exciting (who doesn’t like fighting in snow?) but require extra preparation to ensure safety and warmth. To look ‘in-game,’ LARPers spend extra time finding normal winter clothing that can pass for the setting of a LARP. Quality boots, Under Armour, thermals, extra socks and extra sweats are all incredibly useful gifts. Most LARPers wear regular winter gear under their more spectacular costumes in chilly weather.