It can be challenging to find the right gift for a friend or loved one who is always on the go. Digital nomads and other frequent travelers need to consider weight and available space when they’re living out of a suitcase or backpack. We’ve selected the 14 best items that you can give to your favorite traveler this year.
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- Portable Neck Fan
A portable neck fan can be a lifesaver for travelers who need to stay cool in hot and humid conditions. Look for a quiet, lightweight model with a long-lasting battery and speed control.
2. Noise Cancelling Headphones
It’s nearly impossible to get any work done if you’re a digital nomad staying in a party town. A high-quality pair of noise-canceling headphones can mean the difference between meeting your work goals and not being able to pay your expenses. You’ll find a wide range of traditional headband-style headphones, including budget models from Soundcore and Sony or high-end headphones from Bose. For friends who need to travel light, you’ll have many options for noise-canceling earbuds with Bluetooth capability.
3. Reading Light
Lightweight and compact personal reading lights make excellent presents for travelers. Reading lights make it possible to read or work at night while in transport or in shared hostel rooms without disturbing their neighbors. There are many models on the market, from lights that clip on books to ones that wrap around the neck.
4. Eye Masks
Eye masks make fantastic stocking stuffers for frequent travelers. You’ll find plenty of affordable models and comfortable eyemasks online. But for that extra special traveler in your life, you may want to purchase Drowsy’s luxury sleep cocoon. The padded silk eye mask offers total darkness and the epitome of comfort. Plus, you’ll have 16 silk models to choose from.
5. Luggage Tracker
Lost luggage can cause a lot of stress. You’ll rack up some major brownie points with your favorite traveler when you stuff a couple of luggage trackers in their stockings. Look for TSA-approved models that offer GPS or Bluetooth tracking.
6. Portable Eating Utensils
Eating with plastic cutlery can be a real challenge. Plus, disposable utensils add to the amount of plastics in the environment. You’ll find a wide range of travel cutlery kits on the market. Most kits include a carrying case, and some kits include extras like chopsticks, straws, steak knives, and cleaning brushes.
7. Collapsible Travel Mug and Water Bottle
Collapsible travel mugs and water bottles are must-haves for travelers who want to reduce waste. The sturdy Stojo travel mug shrinks down to just two inches tall, so you can even slip it in your pocket. Both the mugs and water bottles are available in several colors, and the water bottle comes in a handy kids’ size. The company also offers collapsible bowls and sandwich boxes.
8. Rechargeable Power Pack
A portable USB charger is essential for digital nomads. They come in a dizzying array of sizes at affordable prices. For an exceptional value, try the ultraslim FOCHEW portable charger 2 pack with dual USB outputs.
9. Airfly Pro
You’ve probably experienced the frustration of trying to watch onboard entertainment because your earbuds or Bluetooth headphones aren’t compatible with airplane televisions. The Airfly Pro by Twelve South allows you to connect AirPods or other devices to the screen.
10. Hanging Toiletry Bag
Digging through several toiletry bags to find what you’re looking for can be exasperating. With a hanging toiletry bag, you can just open it up and hang it on the bathroom door of your hotel. You’ll have everything at your fingertips and organized for your next trip. Look for a sturdy, waterproof model with clear compartments.
11. Personal Safety Alarm
A personal safety alarm is essential for solo travelers. The birdie safety alarm is compact, user-friendly, and comes in five stylish colors. If you feel like you may be in danger, simply pull the pin, and a piercing alarm will last until you replace the pin. The unit includes replaceable batteries that will last for 40 minutes of continuous alarm. The affordable unit costs under $30, and the company donates a portion of the proceeds to women’s organizations.
12. Earplugs
A few quality sets of earplugs are crucial travel accessories for digital nomads and budget travelers staying in hostels. The Loop Quiet earplugs offer the utmost in comfort and style. Plus you can pick up a pair for just $20-35, depending upon the model.
13. Toothbrush Protector
There’s nothing worse than discovering that your toothbrush has gotten filthy in the bottom of your toiletry bag. Most travel toothbrushes are flimsy and mostly useless. With steripod toothbrush protectors, you can use your usual toothbrush while you’re on the road without worrying about it getting contaminated in transit. You can find packs of 2-8 pods ranging from around $5-18.
14. Universal Power Adapter
A universal travel adapter will make any world traveler’s life a little easier. The EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter offers 2 USB-A Ports, 3 USB-C Ports, and a 3-way AC adapter that covers EU, UK, US, and AUS power systems. The unit is lightweight and costs around $25.
Written by Cat Winske
Image by Yehven Buzuk from Pixabay