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!
- REI Co-op Big Haul 90 Duffel
- Anker Nano Travel Adapter
- Rolling Square AirCard
- Peak Design Mobile Tripod
- NITECORE TINI 3
- Roost V3 Laptop Stand
- Vuori Meta Pant
- Loop Quiet 2
- NITECORE NB Air USB-C 5000mAh Power Bank
- Heroclip Hybrid Carabiner Clip
- NITECORE NB20000 Gen 3
- Nite Ize S-Biner SlideLock
- TUSHY Travel Portable Bidet
- MODL Outdoors Infinity Tool 2.0
- JBL Clip 5
- Ugreen Uno Magnetic Wireless Power Bank 10000mAh
- Olight iUltra OAL Keychain Flashlight
- Matador Mesh Organizer Bag Set
- ESR CryoBoost Foldable 3-in-1 Magnetic Charging Station (25W)
- SlimFold Global Minimalist Travel Wallet
- Arterra Honey Badger
- Arcade Aero Mag
REI Co-op Big Haul 90 Duffel
SPONSORED
Why we like it: Offers massive storage space, yet packs down to a neatly shaped cube once you're done with it
With 90 liters of capacity, this duffle is ready for long trips and gear-heavy getaways. Carry it by the tote handles or switch to the tuck-away backpack straps when your hands need a break. Its recycled ripstop nylon upper and reinforced ballistic nylon base are built for the long haul, while a PFAS-free DWR finish helps moisture bead off. External lash points, compression straps, and handy pockets keep everything organized, and it even packs into its own storage pouch when the adventure's over.
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.
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.
Vuori Meta Pant
SPONSORED
Why we like it: A pair of pants that won't look or feel out of place in most situations.
Made for days that go from airport terminals to sightseeing and dinner plans, these versatile pants feature 4-way stretch for easy movement and smooth-to-the-touch fabric for all-day comfort. Moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties help you stay comfortable while exploring, too. Five pockets, including a zippered back pocket, keep everyday essentials close at hand. With three fits and multiple inseam options, it's easier to find your ideal match. Dress them up or down, and you've got one less thing to overthink when packing.
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!
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.
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!
Olight iUltra OAL Keychain Flashlight Review
Why we like it: It turns on when you pull it apart and charges wirelessly.
A flashlight might seem like a strange gift, but hear us out. The Olight iUltra OAL Keychain Flashlight is tiny enough to attach to their keys without adding much bulk, yet it puts out 80 lumens for finding keyholes, digging through a travel backpack, or searching for something under the couch. The best part is how easy it is to use. Pull the light away from its magnetic base, and it turns on. Snap it back into place, and it turns off. The aluminum construction feels durable, and the built-in USB-C connector lets them charge it without carrying another cable. It only has one brightness setting, and the battery lasts 50 minutes, but that's plenty for most quick tasks.
Matador Mesh Organizer Bag Set Review
Why we like it: The see-through mesh makes it easy to find things.
The Matador Mesh Organizer Bag Set is a solid gift for anyone who likes keeping their travel gear organized without adding a bunch of bulky pouches to their setup. The set includes three sizes, making it easy to separate everything from charging cables and battery banks to smaller accessories that tend to disappear into the depths of a backpack. The mesh construction lets them see what's inside without opening each bag, which is especially handy when they're in a hurry. Plus, the durable material can handle being tossed around in a travel backpack, and it cleans up easily when things get dirty. These aren't waterproof, and there's no internal organization, but that's not really the point. They're simple, lightweight organizers that get the job done.
ESR CryoBoost Foldable 3-in-1 Magnetic Charging Station (25W) | Keeping things cool while you juice up.
Why we like it: The device can charge a phone, earbuds, and a smartwatch.
The ESR CryoBoost Foldable 3-in-1 Magnetic Charging Station is a stellar gift for anyone who's invested in the Apple ecosystem. It charges a compatible iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch simultaneously, so they don't have to juggle multiple cables and wall chargers while traveling. The phone charger supports up to 25W Qi2 wireless charging and has a built-in cooling fan to help keep temperatures down during charging. Don't worry, the fan is surprisingly quiet, and they can turn it off if they prefer a quieter setup overnight. When they're ready to hit the road, the entire station folds down to roughly the size of a battery bank, making it easy to slide into a tech pouch or sling. It isn't the cheapest charger around, but the convenience is hard to beat.
SlimFold Global Minimalist Travel Wallet Review
Why we like it: It holds multiple cards and international currencies.
The SlimFold Global Minimalist Travel Wallet is a solid gift for anyone who wants to keep their everyday carry slim without sacrificing useful features. The flexible, waterproof material helps protect their cards and cash from unexpected spills, while the five internal sleeves hold 8-10 cards. There's also a dedicated pocket for an AirTag, which is handy for keeping track of their wallet while traveling. Unlike some minimalist wallets, this one accommodates taller international banknotes, so they won't have to fold everything into awkward shapes when exploring another country. A magnetic closure helps keep everything secure, and the thin profile makes it easy to slide into a pants pocket or sling. It's not designed for carrying a huge stack of cards, but for everyday essentials, we dig the balance of portability and practicality.
Arterra Honey Badger Review
Why we like it: It works as both a tech pouch and a small sling.
The Arterra Honey Badger is a clever gift for anyone who likes getting more than one use out of their travel gear. At 1.75L, it's compact enough to organize cables, chargers, a battery bank, and other everyday tech accessories. However, the removable strap lets them turn it into a small sling when they're ready to explore their destination. There's plenty of internal organization, including stretchy mesh pockets and a zippered mesh pocket in the lid, so smaller accessories won't get lost in the main compartment. Plus, the durable nylon construction and clean appearance make it suitable for everything from the airport to a coworking space. It isn't the perfect tech pouch or the perfect sling, and larger items like over-ear headphones won't fit, but we appreciate how it can do both jobs without requiring another bag.
Arcade Aero Mag Review
Why we like it: The magnetic buckle makes it easy to fasten and adjust.
The Arcade Aero Mag is a great gift for anyone who wants a comfortable belt without the hassle of a traditional metal buckle. Its flexible webbing stretches enough to keep things comfortable throughout the day, while the mostly plastic buckle means they might not have to remove it at airport security. The standout feature is the magnetic closure, which snaps into place easily and stays secure throughout our testing. Plus, the belt is made from recycled REPREVE polyester, putting post-consumer materials to good use. The micro-adjustable buckle makes it easy to dial in the fit, and the clean design works well for everyday wear or travel. It only comes in one width and fits waist sizes 30–40 inches, so it's not for everyone. Still, for someone who values comfort and convenience, it's a solid upgrade over a traditional belt.
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!