Gifts for Travelers!

Iiiiiiit’s that time of year! Whether you’re searching for some new items to add to your travel-packed new year, or you simply need an idea for a traveler in your life, I present… (no pun intended)

1. The latest GoPro camera

GoPro HD HERO2: Outdoor Edition
I reluctantly agreed to try this video camera (which also takes stills!) on a trip to Thailand. It seems like such a “man-friendly” product, as you can strap it your chest, your head, OR your surfboard! Besides, isn’t having my DSLR and my iPhone enough?
But as soon as I found out I was able to take it diving (it is waterproof up to 197′ or 60 m) I was sold. I was even MORE sold when I saw the footage of us climbing waterfalls, exploring in long boats, driving a Thai motorscooter, surviving the water-sport that is Songkran (Thai New Year)…this thing is incredible. It’s a must-have for the video and/or adventure traveler you love.

2. Packing Cubes

eBags Packing Cubes – 3pc Set (Blue Polka Dot)
I was kind of against packing cubes for the longest time. The college student and backpacker in me was always like, how is this different from rolling up my clothes and putting them in plastic bags?
When I finally decided to give them a try, I fell in love for a few reasons: 1) your clothes or items can breathe. 2) everything lies pretty flat, which prevents you from having to dig to get the item you need (done this way too many times with my plastic bags.)
At roughly $20 for a set of three, I think it’s worth giving packing cubes a try. They fit splendidly in my work suitcase AND my travel backpack. Double-duty!
If you’re purchasing for the lady traveler in your life, I highly recommend this cute polka-dot set!

3. A Make-Your-Own, Keep-Your-Sanity Travel Kit

These are the non-negotiable items I put together as a ‘travel kit’ for planes, trains, and automobiles we inevitably spend hours on. Some of those hours, we might require…I don’t know…some peace and quiet?! Maybe even some sleep?!
I know many travelers out there already rely on these items as as basic need. I do know that after years of use, it was time for my travel kit to get an upgrade. There are highbrow ear plugs out there! While certainly not a complete necessity, it is a luxury for us travelers to either put together a kit or upgrade an existing one.
I recommend:
Eagle Creek Travel Gear Comfort Travel Pillow,Charcoal
Dream Essentials Sweet Dreams Contoured Sleep Mask with Earplugs and Carry Pouch, Black

4. Bobble BPA Free Water Bottle

Bobble BPA Free Water Bottle, 18.5 Ounce, Magenta
This light, BPA free water bottle has a filter that works as you drink. Travelers can fill their water bottles with tap water (where appropriate) and get much better tasting water. We all know how important it is to stay hydrated on the road, and much more water we drink when it tastes good. While this certainly isn’t high-tech enough to be able to fill your water bottle up in INDIA and not come down with Delhi belly…it offers a solution for your water needs in many destinations. I have been very pleased with its ability to transform the taste of water. Also, it comes in all kinds of cute colors! (YES!)

5. Cocoon CoolMax Blanket

Cocoon CoolMax Blanket
I LOVE this thing! It was given to me as a gift, and it has become invaluable as a way to stay comfortable while traveling. It is one of my most-used travel items, on buses or in place of sheets, in hot weather or cool. It has the technology to keep you cool and dry, it also keeps you somewhat warm, is extremely soft…and the best part…it is this huge blanket that rolls up into a tiny, tiny little ball! What else could a traveler ask for?

6. Moleskine Travel Journal

Moleskine Passions Travel Journal
This is the only item on the list that I do not currently own. I want one! I am a huge fan of Moleskine journals—they are invaluable to my trip memories and are high quality and durable. From what I’ve seen, there are five different section tailored to different parts of trip planning and recording. I love that they made a product specifically for travelers. Really, though, when it comes to this gift…any journal will do!

7. Scratch Off Map

Scratch Personalized World Map Poster (Travel Edition)
Last but certainly not least, the omnipresent Scratch-Off Travel Map. Though I’ve seen these all over the place, including Pinterest, I have to say it was by far the best “traveler’s gift” I have received (thanks, bro.) First of all, it’s a map. We all love maps. Secondly, it allows your traveler to show off where they’ve been (which we secretly or not-so-secretly all love to do) AND to daydream about their next destination. Finally, it’s SCRATCH OFF. Which means, if you’re human, and ever slightly enjoyed lottery tickets…this is going to be fun.