It’s that time of year again to scramble and figure out what gifts to get for everyone on your list. What do you buy for someone who is always on the go and severely limited by what can fit in their tiny backpack?
I can personally vouch for everything on this list. I carry these with me everywhere and they make a huge difference in my ability to travel widely. From gadgets that enable me to write about and photograph around the world, to clothing that protects me from the elements, you’ll surprise and delight your traveler loved ones with any of these items.
Note: Occasionally I use affiliate links for products and services that I use and recommend. If you purchase anything through my links, the price will stay the same to you and I get a percentage as a commission. This is a way to support me so I can keep sharing stories from around the world. Thank you!Under $50
How to Travel the World on $50 a Day
$9.45 for Print Edition
Travel Cheaper, Smarter, Longer
This is the book that started it all for me. After discovering Matt’s website, I realized not only was it possible to travel long term, it was also affordable. Great resource for the traveler in your life.
How Not to Travel the World
$15 for Print Edition
Adventures of a Disaster-Prone Backpacker
Lauren has been traveling the world for four years straight and she has had to overcome all manner of crazy scenarios that seem to only happen to her. Hilarious read that will make you realize, if she can make longterm travel work, so can you.
NomadTip
The previous power strip I previously recommended is no longer available. This is the one I use now as of 2021.
Anker Travel Power Strip
$29.99
For all your charging needs
Many of the rooms I stay in only have a single plug and this handy gadget fixes all that. Also super helpful when working out of cafes and it folds up nice and compact. Not the sexiest gift, but super functional.
$50 to $100
Icebreaker Tech Tee
$60 and up
The ultimate travel shirt
Made of thin, light, and strong merino wool, these shirts keep you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. All my shirts come from these guys and they last way longer than cotton tees.
Seagate Backup Plus 2TB
$79
Protect those new precious memories
If you’ve been photographing wonderful places, you need to take care of those new images. Bring a backup drive (or two) with you! I keep one in my carryon and one in my big bag.
Lifeproof iPhone Case
$99
Waterproof protection for your phone
I’m so glad I picked up one of these before shipping off to New Zealand. Straight away I knew my phone was protected anytime I traveled around the ocean or in the rain.
Kindle Paperwhite
$99 and up
Way better than heavy paperbacks
On long plane flights, trains, and buses, I always make sure I have my Kindle loaded up with new books to read. The Paperwhite is super lightweight, has a great backlight, and is easier on the eyes than a tablet.
Over $100
Pickpocket Proof Pants
$109.95
Peace of mind in the sketchiest of places
Anytime I’m traveling through crowded places, I’m sure to have these pants or shorts on. I have complete peace-of-mind with my wallet, phone, and passport stored in these. Comes in multiple styles and colors.
Rohan travel jeans
$110
Lighter, tougher, more secure than regular jeans
Jeans take up a ton of space in your bag and many long term travelers don’t even bother bringing them. But that’s where British clothing company Rohan comes in, with their lightweight, stylish travel jeans.
Scarpa Rapid LT Hiking Shoe
$115
Hybrid trail shoe
Durable shoes that have seen me through more than 1000 miles over the last 9 months. Great for walking, hiking, or running.
GoPro Hero4 Black
$499 and up
Capture and share your life
This year’s new GoPro is the best yet with high-res sharp video and vibrant colors. I’ve used mine to capture scuba diving, cliff jumping, bungy jumping, and so much more.
July 26, 2019
Since 2015 and even before, GoPro is the ultimate gift for travelers, at least for those who can afford it 🙂