The Best Gadgets and Accessories
What do you get someone whose life is built around collecting experiences and not things? The most obvious thing to get an avid traveler is a trip to somewhere! Unfortunately, that’s not easy to wrap up and put under a Christmas tree, nor afford. Luckily there are some pretty fun gadgets out there that make great gifts for travelers.
They might prefer memories to objects, but that doesn’t mean they won’t appreciate having these cool items to make the most out of their travels with! Most of these ideas are even small enough to pack in your checked luggage if you find yourself traveling for the holidays.
Scratch-Off World Map
What avid traveler doesn’t love maps? This Scratch-Off World Map makes the perfect gift to buy if you’re limited on spending money but want to show how well you know, and care for, the recipient.
They can decorate their home while showing off all of those places they’ve traveled to. The best part of the map is that they can customize it personally to display their own unique travel story, and not only includes countries, but cities too.
The map is printed on high quality silk art paper and has a gloss coating. It works just like a scratch card: they’ll remove the “gold scratch” to reveal the map underneath.
The Trtl Pillow
There are few things better than being able to doze off just after takeoff, and waking up just as the flight crew announces that the plane is making its descent. The problem is comfort. If you can’t get comfortable, you can’t sleep.
The good news is that the Trtl Pillow resolves this issue. Built more like a scarf, it can even be used in the middle seat as it contains a hidden support structure that will cradle your head, helping your favorite traveler get that all-important shut eye so they can enjoy the destination without being so weary.
Wondering what medical tourism involves? We go over the pros, cons and logistics of going on vacation for a medical procedure.
Devacurl Anti-Frizz Devatowel
A great gift for the budget conscious with a beauty conscious friend, the Devacurl Anti-Frizz Devatowel is unlike terrycloth towels that can lead to frizzy hair. Its smooth microfiber texture helps to dry curls and enhance their shape without the frizz.
Easy to stow, it’s ideal for your traveling female friends and family who are out on the road a lot and want that smooth look.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Getting comfortable on a long-haul, overnight flight doesn’t matter much if the cabin is noisy and distracting. Your traveler can forget about all of those crying babies, loud carts and that snoring neighbor with a pair of these noise-cancelling headphones by Bose.
They offer the quality music sound Bose is renowned for, as well as noise cancellation that makes even quiet sound quieter. Plus the battery lasts for 20 hours per charge, or as much as 40 hours in wired mode, meaning travelers can get through their flight in peace and arrive feeling much better.
It also includes an airline adapter, as well as a carry case, USB charging cable and backup audio cable.
Kammock Roo Double Camping Hammock
For the traveler who likes to camp, this camping hammock is ideal. Launched by crowdfunding but now available on Amazon, it’s affordable, incredibly lightweight and folds out to about the size of a queen-size bed, comfortably fitting two people.
Plus, you can feel extra good about your purchase as Kammock — the Austin, Texas based company that produces it — will donate funds for malaria treatments to five children in Africa for each one it sells.
This BabyQuip review shows how easy it is to rent infant and toddler equipment while you're on vacation, rather than having to lug it along with you.
Airbnb Gift Card
Gift cards are convenient, but many gift givers worry they aren’t personal enough. An Airbnb gift card is ideal for your favorite adventurers, especially those who are too far away for an in-person gift exchange.
Airbnb enables travelers to choose more unique accommodations that often allow them to enjoy the comforts of home and/or other amenities standard hotels just can’t provide. Plus they can be found in nearly 200 countries across the globe.
Logitech Keys-to-Go
Your traveler probably wants to take their iPad or tablet along, and this Logitech Keys-to-Go portable Bluetooth keyboard makes it a breeze. It’s ultra-portable as it’s super thin, incredibly light and fits anywhere.
The FabricSkin covering helps to protect the keys from potential crumbs, dirt and even spills. Have you ever sat a cup of coffee on the tray table beside your iPad just when the plane hits an air pocket? This will help prevent what could have been a big disaster.
Plus, typing is comfortable, with well-spaced, full-size keys. And the battery lasts for three months between charges.
Wanderlust Collection Passport Holder
A passport holder is a great inexpensive gift, and this one can even be personalized. All you have to do is click “customize now” and add your recipient’s initials or name. It’s super stylish, made from scratch resistant faux leather which gives it an especially elegant look. Plus it comes with a wide range of design options too.
What to you know about all inclusive resort tipping etiquette? Read on to learn more about tipping and what's appropriate.
Hidden Pocket Scarf
Speakeasy Travel Supply makes hidden pocket scarves which come in a variety of colors and fabrics, and contain a secret pocket to keep important items like a passport safe. Not only is the pocket impossible to spot unless you already know it’s there, it’s large enough to hold a wad of bills and even a small cell phone in addition to a passport.
Your traveler will have peace of mind when walking around in a foreign city — a gift that’s truly priceless.
Sneaky Snuggler Puffy Camping Blanket
A Montem Sneaky Snuggler Blanket is perfect for travelers of all sorts. Water and puncture resistant, they won’t have to worry about it getting damaged. It’s also exceptionally compact and lightweight, making it a no-brainer to bring on any trip.
It’s perfect for keeping warm on camping trips, cuddling up by the campfire and cozying up for a night in the tent. You can also spread it out on the grass of a park for a picnic or take it with you on a long train ride for a comfortable journey.
If you have plans to travel in South America you'll find it helpful to learn these Spanish phrases before you go. It'll make the trip go a lot smoother!
Diadema 18L Hiking Daypack
Every traveler needs a durable backpack, regardless of what they tend to get up to on their travels. The Diadema Daypack makes for a great gift that the traveler in your life is sure to get a lot of use out of.
Not only is it waterproof and tear resistant, it’s extremely packable which means you can throw it in your suitcase or stuff it into a larger bag so it can be used on days when you want to travel lighter. Want to go out on a quick hike? Put some snacks and supplies in the daypack and head out!
Going to explore a city for a day? Take a bike tour? Hang out at the beach? This bag works great for all of that and more.
Like these products? Find more travel gift essentials at Look What’s Cool!