Top gifts for travelers
The holidays are coming up fast! I have been doing some research on the best latest travel accessories and want to share them with you in case you’re in search of a gift for the traveler in your life (or yourself, let’s be honest). Many of these items are self-explanatory, but each of the specific products shown below are ones that I’ve found to be top-rated in their categories. Prices range from $13-199 so there are options for many levels of spending.
Poler Unisex Rolltop Bag
I love backpacks. I have a giant collection of them in all shapes and sizes. My Poler backpack is my traveling go-to. It’s made of rugged, water-resistant material, is very comfortable to wear, and fits a surprisingly large amount inside of it without becoming bulky looking or misshapen. I have the Poler rucksack, however, I think that this rolltop bag, currently found on Amazon for $140, would be ideal for use as a carry-on as well as a daypack while traveling. The rolling and clipping top aids in anti-theft and the 21-liter size is perfect. I may have to get this one next.
Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader
Alright so this is an obvious one, but if you are a frequent traveler or you know one who doesn’t have a Kindle yet, y’all are seriously slacking. This is my personal favorite travel accessory. I have ALWAYS carried a book or two with me while traveling and the Kindle is the perfect way to have a whole library available in your hands. The battery life is super long and it’s so tiny and easy to pack. The latest version is around $129, but if you go for just a generation prior, it drops to $79. I still have my first generation Kindle and it’s going strong!
Kmall Inflatable Travel Pillow
Neck pillows are a subjective topic, but my definite favorite are the inflatable ones. Instead of having to carry around a bulky, stuffed pillow, you can stuff a deflated one in your purse or carry-on pocket to be pulled out and inflated only when needed. I find them to be quite comfortable too. This one from Kmall is only $13! Can’t beat that.
Rolo Adventures LLC Portable Roll-Up Travel Bag
I just recently found out about this Rolo Roll-Up Bag and really want to try it! Like packing cubes, it compresses a large amount of clothing into a small roll. Pack it inside your suitcase or attach it to the outside of your backpack. My favorite feature is the hook on top which allows it to hang in a closet or on the back of a door. It has great reviews so far and is currently just $49.
Delicacy Universal Travel Power Adaptor
When traveling internationally, a reliable power adaptor is absolutely essential. This one is only $21 and it has a built-in smart IC chip which allows it to detect what type of electronics you are plugging into it so it can adjust its power output accordingly. I love that! It also has 4 USB ports, allowing for lots of charging at once.
RAVPower Portable Charger
This RAVPower Portable Charger is compact but packs a big punch. It holds up to 5 full iPhone charges or can charge 3 devices at once. It’s available in 4 different colors and comes with a protective pouch. A great deal for $42.
Sennheiser Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The Sennheiser PXC 550 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones are the ultimate traveler’s headphones. At $199.99, they are an investment, but a worthwhile one. They cancel out almost all background noise, connect via bluetooth, and their battery lasts up to 30 hours. Whether on a bus, train, plane, or sitting in a busy terminal, these headphones will be your best friend.
Manfrotto Compact Tripod
A tripod is key- especially on solo travels, in remote places where there aren’t other people to ask for photos, or when shooting in low light situations. The Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod weighs just 2.03 pounds, is under 16 inches when fully closed, and extends up to 51.5 inches. Perfect to store in your bag and whip out when needed. At $58, it’s a steal for a sturdy, reliable product at a super light weight.
L.L. Bean Merino Wool Hooded Sweatshirt
Available in both women’s and men’s fits, this lightweight wool hoodie is the perfectly cozy travel sweatshirt. I always recommend a hoodie while traveling, so you can flip it around and put the hood up over your face while you’re sleeping. Wool brings it to another level, adding breathability and body temperature regulation to ensure you don’t get too cold or too hot on the plane (or at your destination). I never know if there will be freezing air blowing on me or if it’ll be warm and stuffy, so I find this material to be key. At $159, it’s pricey for a hoodie, but L.L. Bean makes long-lasting products and this will be a go-to layer for years to come.
MiiR Wide Mouth Water Bottle
Bringing a good reusable water bottle with you while traveling is a clever little travel hack. Of course, it has to be empty while going through security, but then you can just fill it up at a water fountain once you reach your gate. Then, you can have a full bottle while you’re on the plane, instead of constantly having to ask for little cups to stay hydrated. I also like to keep a bottle on me at all times during the day, so I love having this with me throughout my whole trip. This bottle by MiiR comes in three sizes (16oz, 20oz, 42oz), it is insulated for use of hot or cold liquids, and the smaller two sizes fit in cupholders. Prices range from $27-35, though they’re currently on sale. I recommend MiiR because it’s a fantastic bottle, but also because they give 3% of their revenue to organizations with sustainable methods of empowerment.
Field Notes Notebook Pack
I like to write out my daily travel plans, keep track of restaurants or sights that I loved, jot down notes, or keep a journal while traveling. Stick one of these mini notebooks in your carry-on and you’re all set to record everything your heart desires while adding fewer than 3oz to your bag’s weight. A 3-pack goes for $9.95.
What are your favorite travel-themed gifts you’ve received or given? I would love to hear about them!
*Post contains affiliate links. Photos are from product websites.
