We’ve all got that friend, sibling, child, or coworker who is constantly traveling to far and distant places. These can be some of the most challenging people to buy gifts for because, after all, what do you buy for someone who spends Thanksgiving in Turkey, Christmas in Chiang Mai, and Easter in Encarnación? Well, we’ve got a few ideas.
Buying a traveler something they can use on a trip is helpful for a few reasons. First, it shows that you made an effort to look into something that you know they care about. Second, they’ll think about you when they use it, which is a good memory of home while traveling abroad. Third, who doesn’t like new travel gear? We might be a little biased, but we think that’s the best kind of gift that there is!
Before you dive into this list, you must sort a few things out. Ask their partner, family, or friends what they already have or if they’ve been wanting anything for a while. This way, you don’t buy them something that they already have. Additionally, think about what kind of traveler they are and the gear they might find useful but not already own. This is a solid way to get somebody a gift that won’t end up donated to a thrift store or sitting in the closet.
Why You Should Trust Us
Pack Hacker started after our founder, Tom, traveled the world for a few years out of one backpack and wrote a post about it. Pack Hacker has been a resource for world travelers, one-baggers, and gear aficionados since day one. Travel gear that works for domestic travel doesn’t always work for going abroad, so it’s essential to consider these things when reviewing and recommending gear. Of course, there is some overlap, which you’ll see when you dive into the list below!
- Anker Nano Travel Adapter
- Rolling Square AirCard
- Peak Design Mobile Tripod
- Altec Lansing HydraTrek Rugged Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
- NITECORE TINI 3
- Roost V3 Laptop Stand
- JOBY GripTight ONE Micro Stand
- Loop Quiet 2
- NITECORE NB Air USB-C 5000mAh Power Bank
- Heroclip Hybrid Carabiner Clip
- NITECORE NB20000 Gen 3
- Nite Ize S-Biner SlideLock
- Arcade Atlas Belt
- TUSHY Travel Portable Bidet
- MODL Outdoors Infinity Tool 2.0
- Twelve South AirFly Pro
- JBL Clip 5
- Ugreen Uno Magnetic Wireless Power Bank 10000mAh
Anker Nano Travel Adapter Review
Why we like it: It works all over the world and doesn't take up much space.
If you know someone who travels worldwide, we've got the perfect gift for them. The Anker Nano Travel Adapter is small enough to fit into their pants pocket but will work in over 200 countries. In addition to having a standard plug (without a ground), the adapter has two USB-C and two USB-A ports so that they can charge all their devices at once. Our Managing Editor used it in Kenya and Tanzania without issue for over two weeks, and its durability was top-notch. We appreciate the form factor most, as it's much easier to fit into a tech pouch or pants pocket than most travel adapters we've tested. Plus, it looks sleeker and less dated than many on the market, so you can get a gift that's functional and stylish!
Rolling Square AirCard Review
Why we like it: They can use it as a tracker or as a business card.
The Rolling Square AirCard slides perfectly into most wallets. You might be wondering how they’ll load their financial information onto it—well, they don’t. The AirCard is a tracking device, so they can find their wallet should they lose it. Or, load it into the ID window of their rolling luggage to ensure they always know where it is. The device is compatible with Apple’s Find My Network, meaning it has better connectivity worldwide, though that’s especially true in the United States, where more people have Apple devices. If someone finds the card, they can scan the QR code or tap the NFC tag to get their contact information. This isn’t perfect, as not all good samaritans know how to use QR codes or NFC tags; however, this is a solid gift for somebody constantly losing their wallet!
Peak Design Mobile Tripod Review
Why we like it: It attaches to the back of their phone, so it is out of the way when not in use.
The Peak Design Mobile Tripod is perfect for meetings on the go, snapping a long exposure photo with their phone, or setting up a family photo. They can use it with any MagSafe-compatible iPhone, a phone using the Peak Design Case, or anything attached to Peak Design’s universal mount. If you’re shopping for someone who doesn’t have any of those three things, this isn’t a good bet unless you want to buy a phone case or universal mount while you’re at it. The legs are easy to set up, and the tripod stays attached to their phone when they aren’t using it, so it’s hard to lose. Plus, they can use it horizontally or vertically, which is handy for everything from photos to Zoom calls.
Altec Lansing HydraTrek Rugged Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Why we like it: It's fully submersible.
The Altec Lansing HydraTrek Rugged Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker is the perfect gift for international travelers for several reasons. Its IP67 rating makes it safe to take it to the beach, around the pool, or on the trail. It's cheap, so it isn't a huge deal if it gets lost, broken, or stolen while exploring the world. Plus, it doesn't take up much space, so it'll easily fit inside a daypack or travel backpack. The sound quality isn't top-tier, and it doesn't have any fancy features, but it’s surprisingly quality for such a small, budget-friendly speaker. I’ll last up to six hours on a single charge, which is all most users will need for a day of fun in the sun. There are several colorway options, too, so you can order the model that matches your partner, friend, or family member's vibes.
NITECORE TINI 3 Review
Why we like it: It's incredibly bright for how tiny it is.
We know what you might be thinking. A flashlight? Seriously? Well, yes! Whereas the advent of smartphone flashlights is helpful, being stuck with one of those alone when an emergency strikes is problematic. The NITECORE TINI 2 is incredibly powerful, packing 600 lumens, yet easy for them to hold in the palm of their hand. In high-power mode, the battery will last just 20 minutes; however, lower modes will allow the light to last for days, which makes it a high-quality travel companion. Plus, the exterior is metal, not plastic, so whoever you give this to can use it for years to come.
Roost V3 - Laptop Stand Review
Why we like it: It is pretty skinny when folded up, so it’ll fit in most backpacks.
We’ve been high on the Roost V3 Laptop Stand for years and have shown no signs of descending from the astronomical height this stand allows them to keep their laptop at. It is an excellent gift for anyone who works on their computer for extended hours, as it is more ergonomic than leaving their laptop on the table in front of them. Plus, it packs into a tiny case. It’s long when folded away; however, it’s so skinny that it easily fits into travel backpacks, daypacks, and even some slings. With seven adjustment levels, this gift is perfect for laptops and humans of all shapes and sizes.
JOBY GripTight ONE Micro Stand In Hand
Why we like it: It fits in their pocket and works for meetings, watching videos, photography, and taking steady videos.
The JOBY GripTight ONE Micro Stand ticks a lot of boxes when shopping for the holidays. First, it’s small enough to fit into a stocking. Considering it fits into every pants pocket we’ve tried, a stocking above the fireplace is no problem. Second, it works with almost all modern cell phones, so you can get it for anyone. Well, not Uncle Larry, because he’s been using a Motorola Razr since 2004. Third, they can separate the two pieces, giving the device more functionality. The phone grip can be attached to a tripod for a better angle or shooting video, and they can use the stand for a point-and-shoot camera. The JOBY GripTight ONE Micro Stand is a solid gift idea for anyone interested in phone photography, taking meetings on the go, operating hands-free, and watching videos easily.
Loop Quiet 2
Why we like it: They’re small, comfortable, and easy to use.
No, these aren’t Bluetooth headphones. No, seriously, stop asking us about sound quality in the comments on our review on YouTube. They’re earplugs, not headphones! Now that we’ve got that disclaimer out of the way, why should you purchase the Loop Quiet Earplugs for an international traveler? Well, most well-traveled adventurers have a pair of earplugs or have thought about getting some. In our experience, these are the best ones on the market, as they’re easy to put in, don’t fall out, and have different size plugs to fit all ear types. Plus, they’re easy to clean and come with a case, making them harder to lose than others we’ve tested. They don’t offer the protection they’d want for an active construction site; however, they’re more than adequate for most travel uses.
Nitecore NB Air Ultra Lightweight and Slim USB-C 5000mAh Power Bank Review
Why we like it: It fits into your pocket alongside your phone without adding much bulk.
The NITECORE NB Air has quickly become one of our favorite battery banks for one reason: portability. Sure, it only has one USB-C port, has a maximum capacity of 5,000 mAh, and a rated energy of 3,300 mAh, but it fits into almost any pocket and will charge a phone, flashlight, or Nintendo Switch. What else can you ask for? The battery bank has an IPX7 rating, so spills and drops into water won't phase it. The USB-C port has an input and output of 18 watts, which isn't revolutionary, but it will get the job done quickly. This isn't a battery bank for those who need to charge things multiple times per day, but for those looking for an emergency topper or roughly one charge, it's a home run that fits into your pocket.
HEROCLIP Medium Hanger
Why we like it: There are multiple sizes and colorways, so they can find something for every kind of traveler.
Buying the Heroclip Hybrid Carabiner Clip for someone as a gift usually goes one of two ways. The first option is that they’re blown away by it and can’t believe they didn’t already have it. The design offers an ingenious way to ensure their backpack doesn’t have to sit on dirty or wet floors, turning any ledge into a hanging device. The second option is that they already have one, love it, and are happy they’ve got another, just in case the first one breaks or goes missing. The clip is lightweight, fits into the palm of their hand, and comes in multiple sizes to work with almost any bag or sling. Plus, some fun colorways are available, so you can find one that fits the vibe of the person you’re shopping for.
NITECORE NB20000 Gen 3
Why we like it: It has four ports for charging multiple devices.
The NITECORE NB20000 is a 20,000 mAh battery bank with two USB-A and two USB-C ports, making it a stellar choice for folks with lots of tech to charge. Because of the carbon fiber shell, the battery bank is highly durable and looks sleek, making this the perfect gift for the ultralight traveler in your life. The device is pocketable, but it takes up a lot of space, so it isn't ideal for those with small pockets or who want something they can keep in the same pocket as their phone. Because of its large size, a sling or tech pouch is more ideal!
Nite Ize Biner Slidelock Aluminum Backpack
Why we like it: The locking device is easy to use and doesn’t take much extra time to engage.
A carabiner is a handy tool while traveling for several reasons, and the Nite Ize S-Biner SlideLock takes things to a whole new level. It has two clips, so they don’t have to fiddle with fitting two things into the same side and getting tangled. Plus, each side has a mini locking device that’s easy to use and ensures neither side pops open when they don’t want it to. We’ve lost the locking tab in the past; however, if they keep an eye on it when engaging it, there shouldn’t be an issue. There are a ton of colorways and sizes available, so you can get your giftee a color that matches their vibe and a size that works best for their needs. Or, get them an assortment of both. They’ll find a use for them!
Arcade Atlas Belt Review
Why we like it: It’s comfortable, holds their pants up, and shouldn’t have to come off at the airport.
The Arcade Atlas Belt might seem like a strange gift at first glance, but let us sell it to you before you pass judgment. First, it’s crafted from recycled REPREVE polyester, which is stretchy enough to be comfortable on all kinds of journeys and strong enough to keep their pants up all day long. Second, the belt has no metal, so they can wear it through airport security. Some agents may request that they remove it; however, we find this typically only happens if they tuck in their shirt or they can see it. Third, it retails for less than $40, which is a solid shout for something that your friend or family member will use every day, all day. Hopefully, if you’re still passing judgment after all that, it’s because you love this thing and can’t wait to get one for yourself and your loved one!
TUSHY Travel Portable Bidet | Using the Bidet in Detroit.
Why we like it: They can use it at home, at work, or while traveling.
A Pack Hacker Pro Member once pointed out something about bidets that completely changed our thinking. If you were walking the dog and accidentally got doo-doo anywhere on your skin, would you wipe it off with a paper towel or wash it with water? Whether they have a bidet at home or not, the TUSHY Travel Portable Bidet is a solid tool for staying clean and comfortable while traveling. This gift works in two ways. First, it’s convenient and works well. Second, it seems like a gag gift and usually gets a laugh. What’s better than a gag gift that’s actually helpful?
MODL Outdoors Infinity Tool 2.0 Size
Why we like it: There are multiple sizes and accessories to make it worthwhile everywhere from the taxi to the airport to the hotel room or campsite.
The MODL Outdoors Infinity Tool 2.0 checks a lot of boxes, from making a fashion statement to use as a camping tool. The bands come in multiple sizes and colors and are stretchy, making it easier to wrap around things. They can use it as a makeshift sternum strap, to hold onto multiple grocery bags at once, or to wrap around a tree to hold a garbage bag. Various attachments, like hooks and studs, are handy for hanging things and adding style to the strap when wearing it as a bracelet. Plus, some models glow in the dark, which is fun and makes them easier to see at night.
Twelve South Airfly Pro
Why we like it: They can connect two devices, so they can easily watch a movie with their friend or partner without trying to hit play on two screens simultaneously.
The Twelve South AirFly Pro turns any 3.5mm headphone jack into a receiver for a Bluetooth signal, making it easy to turn a long flight into a more comfortable experience or enabling them to watch TV without the audio waking their friends or partner if they’re jetlagged or can’t miss the big game while abroad. There are four versions of the AirFly, so you can get the version with the battery life, connectivity, and auxiliary ports that make sense for the person you’re shopping for. The AirFly Pro and Duo have the most features; however, the Duo and SE will work for some travelers and are more budget-friendly. The Duo and Pro enable them to connect two devices, which is a better option for people who travel in pairs.
JBL Clip 5 Review
Why we like it: It has solid sound quality, bass, and a large clip.
We've tested multiple JBL Clip speakers, and each one improves on the last. The JBL Clip 5 is roughly the same size and weight as the Clip 4, though it has a larger clip, so it's easier to attach to things. The battery life and sound quality are better, too. It's more durable, as all the silicone has stayed on, which we can't say was true for the Clip 5. The speaker has an IP67 rating, so whoever you give this to can take it to the beach or on a hike without worry of it getting wet. It charges via USB-C, so most travelers won't need to adjust their tech pouch. Plus, you can pair multiple speakers using the JBL app, making this a solid gift for those already invested in the JBL ecosystem.
Why we like it: It operates as a phone stand, wireless charger, and regular battery bank.
The Ugreen Uno Magnetic Wireless Power Bank 10000mAh is fun, practical, and useful. First and foremost, it's a wireless charger that boosts up to 15 watts of charge to devices with wireless capabilities. Plus, it has a USB-C port that maxes out at 20 watts for non-wireless devices or when faster charging is desired. Last, but certainly not least, it has a little screen that shows your battery life and cute little faces, which we consider a desktop companion on long work days as a digital nomad. The device has a built-in kickstand so they can use it as a phone holder and a wireless charger. We've charged our devices while on FaceTime or watching videos, which is a handy way to pass the time, no matter where life takes you!
So there you have it, some of the best gifts for international travelers, from tech to self-care tools. Hopefully, by this point, you have a few ideas about how to make someone’s day special. Happy shopping!