The 21 Best Gifts for Travelers, Tested & Reviewed

Sponsored Content: The North Face

The lightweight Men’s ThermoBall Jacket 2.0 expertly balances the convenience of packability with advanced insulation for warmth without the weight. Made with 100% recycled materials, this eco-friendly jacket incorporates a non-PFC DWR finish and Thermoball insulation, which retains heat even when wet. The slim-cut design features a stylish yet functional quilt pattern that sets this piece apart from classic puffy jackets and helps minimize cold spots. Concealed-zip hand pockets retain even more heat when closed. The whole jacket packs down into the chest pocket for ultimate portability.

Why we like it: The materials are lightweight, recycled, and durable

The tomtoc Aviator-T33 Chest Bag 3.5L is a solid, budget-friendly option for the traveler or everyday carry nut in your life who’s always looking for another sling to carry their goodies. Whether or not you think they need all that stuff is another thing, but that’s a debate for another day! The exterior shell has a design that focuses on minimalism and features water resistance, the bag utilizes durable YKK zippers, and the broad strap ensures comfort all day long. Plus, there are three pockets for stowing gear, so everything has a home.

Why we like it: It feels like a standard billfold but has modern financial storage options

The Minaal RFID Travel Wallet is the perfect gift for the traveler in your life who wants a vegan wallet with ample storage for cash, cards, and a passport. Plus, it has RFID protection, so nobody’s information will get stolen, regardless of the destination. The wallet fits into larger front pockets without issue, which is a big perk for some travelers. However, smaller pockets may negate that trick, relegating it to a back pocket, sling, or daypack. Either way, this sleek wallet looks excellent with a bow around it or while wandering through Warsaw!

Why we like it: For the price, it’s quite bright and has multiple modes that are handy for travel

Everyone needs a flashlight! We know what you might be thinking—but what about my phone flashlight? Well, use the NITECORE TIKI a few times, and you’ll understand what we mean and why it’s an excellent gift for anyone in your life who loves travel, getting outdoors, or seeing in the dark. The light features four brightnesses for different times of night, a UV light for checking IDs and certain money, and a CRI white LED for reading while camping or in a hostel. Plus, the new model uses a USB-C charging cable, which means they probably won’t have to pack an extra cord.

Why we like it: The leather is durable and looks sleek

The Bellroy Under Cover is the perfect gift for anyone who lives the feel of a classic leather billfold but wants a more modern, card-centric experience from their wallet. In addition to holding up to nine cards (YMMV based on thickness), the wallet includes RFID protection to keep your data safe. Magnets effectively hold the wallet together; however, be sure to give them a heads up that it may pop open if the wallet is overloaded. There’s no dedicated place for cash, but we could sneak it into a card slot when needed!

Why we like it: You can charge your phone, Apple Watch, and another device simultaneously

If you’re shopping for a traveler or a heavy tech user, the ESR HaloLock 3-in-1 Travel Wireless Charging Set is a worthy shout. The wireless charging station doubles as a phone stand, so users can watch videos while charging up for the day. Additionally, you can charge your Apple Watch using the included puck and plug in another device using the USB-C cable and 20-watt PD wall charger. All in, the device fits in the palm of your hand, making this a solid gift for anyone who loves traveling with their tech and doesn’t want to take up too much space in their pack.

Why we like it: It can be used for snacks, tech, or anything that’ll fit inside it with ease

We always know someone who loves bringing snacks along for the ride. With the humangear GoPouch, you can enable your friends and family members to cut out single-use plastic sandwich bags and still have a way to cleanly transport snacks and random pieces of gear. Plus, it doubles as a 3-1-1 bag for toiletries on flights. The food-safe silicone is easy to clean, and the semi-transparent material ensures you always know what’s stowed inside, from toiletries to trail mix.

Why we like it: It takes up very little room when empty and can be used for camping, travel, or home storage

The Osprey StraightJacket Compression Sack is a versatile piece of gear you might have never heard of. Essentially, it compresses anything you toss inside it. From clothing to camping gear and sleeping bags, it can help save space in your bag, trunk, or closet. Any traveler or outdoors person can find a use for one, and it’s tiny when not in use, so it doesn’t take up extra space. Plus, as gifts go, it’s on the cheaper side and will go with any Osprey gear your friend or family member might already own!

Why we like it: The wallet is easy to use, and the tools come in handy—in particular, the bottle opener

The Nite Ize Financial Tool Multi Tool Wallet is an excellent gift for anyone constantly fixing things or who loves minimalism. With seven tools, including screwdrivers and a bottle opener, this wallet is handy while traveling, hanging out around the house, or commuting to work. The aluminum is durable, and the plastic band will accommodate enough cash and cards for most users. Plus, it’ll cost less than a meal out at a restaurant, so you can save money on gift buying!

Why we like it: It can be used at home, while camping, or as a travel companion

You can use this tool for various things, from a makeshift sternum strap or a trash can while camping to attaching stuff to your bike. Plus, the newer model comes with new studs, hooks, and glow-in-the-dark straps. We dig the smaller ones because you can wear them as a bracelet when not in use so that it’s always on hand (literally); however, we find longer ones more useful out in the world.

Why we like it: It’s a tiny sling that fits more gear than you might expect, keeping your pants pockets from overflowing

The Bellroy Lite Belt Bag is a perfect mixture of lightweight fabric, recycled materials, and a small form factor, which won’t weigh you down as you go about your day. Plus, it retails for under $50, which makes it a solid gift for friends and family without breaking the bank. At 1.8 liters, you can fit the gear you’d typically fit into your pockets to keep those free from getting too bulky. There isn’t any padding or aeration; however, it’s such a small sling that we don’t miss it much. So far, the sling has held up well, making it a solid shout as a gift that’ll last a long time!

Why we like it: It fits onto your key chain, so you don’t have to worry about stowing a battery bank somewhere

The Rolling Square TAU 2 is the perfect gift for that friend or family member whose phone is constantly dying or who likes to be prepared. It’s a keychain battery bank that will give you a little juice when you need it after a long day of exploring a new city, at the beach, or shopping. With 2,000 mAh, you’ll likely get enough charge to get you home, but not much more. It feels a little large for how much power you get from it; however, the portability is undeniable.

Why we like it: It’s the most unique-looking speaker that we’ve come across, and it’s budget-friendly

The MUZEN Wild Go Bluetooth Speaker has good sound quality, and it comes in a funky, retro-inspired package, too. It uses analog-like dials, buttons, and knobs to change the volume and to change songs and has some heft to it, making it feel more durable and like it’ll last longer. It’s small enough to fit most places, even a larger front pants pocket. The sound quality isn’t perfect at the highest volumes; however, we think it performs well for the price and size.

Why we like it: You can use it as a digital business card in addition to as a tracker

The Rolling Square AirCard is a tracking device that fits into most wallets and is compatible with the Apple Find My Network, meaning it’ll almost always be findable. If you’re using a minimalist wallet, you may struggle to sneak it inside; however, we’ve had no issue with larger models, slings, daypacks, or carry on luggage. Plus, the AirCard acts as a NFC tag to share your digital ID should someone find it or to be used to share your contact information with a new friend or business contact.

Sponsored Content: HYDAWAY

Travel light with the HYDAWAY Hydration Travel Pack. Made with flexible, BPA-free silicone, this ultra-portable bottle holds 17 fluid ounces. Like classic water bottles, the HYDAWAY Hydration Travel Pack stands on its own when in use, fits most cup holders, and even includes a lid with a built-in straw. But unlike most water bottles, this unique design doesn’t take up valuable space in your pack when it’s not in use. Instead, this space-saving bottle collapses down to a 4-inch by 1.5-inch disc. Stash it in your backpack, carry-on, or pocket until you’re ready to refill. As a fun bonus, each pack includes a stylish case, which keeps the bottle clean and protected and features travel-inspired National Park designs.

Why we like it: The colorways are fun, and it has an IP rating that allows for submersion

The Altec Lansing Mini H2O Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker has a ton going for it, making it a solid gift for anyone who listens to music or podcasts. First, it’s budget-friendly, coming in at less than $20 at the time of writing. Next, there are a ton of fun colorways to choose from, so you can find your loved one’s favorite to match their gear. Last, it has an IP67 rating, so you don’t have to worry about splashes or submersion at the beach or the pool. For less than $20, you can’t go wrong!

Why we like it: It has two high-powered ports for fast charging

The NITECORE Carbo 10000 Power Bank is one of the smallest, lightest, and most powerful 10,000 mAh power banks we’ve tested, and if we’re playing favorites, it’s one of the best. The second version has USB-C and USB-A ports; however, the newest version has two USB-C ports. Both are still available, so you can choose the one that works best for your friend, family member, or Secret Santa. You can fast charge most phones with the USB-C output, making this a solid choice for anyone looking to charge quickly on the go without taking up a ton of space.

Why we like it: The grip is comfortable and makes holding onto a mirrorless camera much easier

Modern technology calls for modern solutions. The Peak Design Micro Clutch is a fix for hanging onto tiny mirrorless cameras. There are versions with and without battery grips, so ensure you know what camera your giftee has before purchasing. The aluminum bracket and Hypalon strap are durable, lightweight, and easy to set up. With some cameras, you must remove the bracket to remove the camera battery, which is frustrating. However, once you’ve mastered the technique, it’s easy to do quickly! If the person you are gifting this to has a larger or DSLR camera, you can opt for Peak Design’s larger Clutch.

Why we like it: You can use it to warm up or protect yourself from getting a sunburn

If you’re looking for a gift for someone who is constantly cold or is serious about skincare, the Buff USA Wool Buff is a solid choice. This neck covering will keep you warm when the temperature dips or ensure your neck stays safe from the sun’s rays on warm days. Multiple versions are available, so you can choose a thicker one for winter adventurers, a thinner one for sun protection, and a mid-grade option for use in both situations. We prefer the Merino wool option, which can go longer between washes and doesn’t smell as much as other materials. Plus, there are many colorways to choose from, so you can find one that will be the perfect gift.

Why we like it: It’s similar to a standard comb but more durable without weighing a ton

We know what you might be thinking—a comb! Really? Well, yes, we’re serious! The Chicago Comb Co. Model No. 2 Carbon Fiber isn’t your dad’s old Kent comb (though we wouldn’t be all that mad if it was); however, it has a classic look with modern features. It’s crafted from carbon fiber, ensuring it’s lightweight and durable. It has a large loop on the end, so you can hang it on hooks in the bathroom when counter space is of the essence. The comb isn’t an excellent shout for longer hair; however, we like it for shorter haircuts and beard grooming. Plus, it’s small enough to fit into most toiletry pouches without issue! Who wouldn’t love that as a gift?

Why we like it: You can use it for snacks, toiletries, jewelry, and more

The humangear GoTubb is a simple piece of gear; however, it has a variety of uses that stretch from fashion to snacking and toiletries. How’s that for an all-encompassing gift? They’re food-safe, so you can stow airport snacks inside so you don’t have to splurge for airport pricing. Or, use it to stow toiletries, like hair gel or lotion. If you’re bringing jewelry for a special event, toss it inside so it doesn’t get lost in your luggage on the way to your destination. No matter what kind of person you’re gifting this to, they’ll have no issue finding a use for it!

Why we like it: It’s a tool that can be used to watch videos, take meetings, or shoot photos and video

The JOBY GripTight ONE Micro Stand is the perfect gift for anyone who understands the power that their phone can harness. It can be used as a phone stand to conduct meetings on the go or to watch YouTube videos or soccer games. Or, use it as a phone tripod to take steady video or long exposures of stars or buildings at night. You can take the stand apart and attach the phone grip to a standard tripod for a better angle or use the stand portion as a tripod for a small camera or Instax. When doing the latter, larger cameras can topple over, so it’s best to use caution. Still, for such a tiny piece of gear, the JOBY GripTight ONE Micro Stand is a versatile travel companion!

Sponsored Content: REI

When packing carry-on-only is just out of reach, REI Co-op Big Haul Duffel offers freedom and flexibility you can't get with a roller board but with 60L of packing space to play with. Easily switch between two carry modes with multiple strap configurations. Air-mesh shoulder straps offer backpack-style carry and then stow away when not needed. Or opt for the duffel tote handles that easily attach with convenient hook-and-loop connectors. An additional four sturdy haul handles—one on each side of the duffel—help you snag it off a luggage carousel. Made with a rugged, highly water-resistant recycled ripstop nylon upper and a recycled ballistic nylon base, this durable travel bag keeps everything safe and dry. Access the main compartment via a two-way zipper, and store smaller essentials in the external zipper pocket. Once fully packed, use external compression points to compact your load.