The frequent flyer is easy to buy during the holiday season. Many products make a flight or daily commute more bearable and comfortable. For those who must travel quarterly or even weekly for work, these thoughtful gifts will likely become essential staples in their bags. With the holidays just around the corner, here’s a list of little gifts that will make life easier for the person who’s always catching the next flight.
Power bank
Nothing is more frustrating for travelers than when their phone suddenly dies during a flight. The fear of dead phones takes its vacation with a fully charged power bank. There are many to choose from in every price range. Getting a charger between 15,000 mAh and 20,000 mAh — that’s milliamp hours — should be enough for most travel needs.
Charging cable organizer
Another common problem when traveling is managing charging cables. Sometimes people travel with many devices that use different charging cables, such as phones, tablets, computers, smart watches, and e-book readers. A charging cable organizer reduces clutter in carry-on bags.
Travel wallet
A traveler’s essential documents are in one convenient location with a travel wallet. These travel wallets allow globetrotters to keep their documents organized and protected in busy airports. You will no longer have to worry about which pocket holds your identity documents, passport, boarding pass or travel itineraries.
Travel adapter
Many countries do not use the same plugs as Canada. A travel adapter will convert a Type A plug (the type with two flat tubes) and a Type B plug (the type with two flat screws and a grounding plug) used in Canada to any other type used worldwide. When buying an adapter, look for one with surge protection to protect all electronics from damage.
Travel gift card
Gift cards allow recipients to choose what they need for their adventure. You can use bookstore gift cards to buy something to read on a flight or at the beach. Hotel and airline gift cards allow the recipient to choose when and where they want to go, at least partially covering one of the most important travel expenses. Other options include gift cards for luggage, gas, travel planning and travel services.
Photo: Jaromir Chalabala via 123RF
Reusable water bottle
A reusable water bottle is a game changer when you travel. Most airports have water bottle filling stations so travelers can stay hydrated throughout their journey. Choose a water bottle that will fit easily in a backpack, is insulated to maintain temperature, and has a leak-proof lid. Some water bottles even have built-in filtration systems if water safety in certain destinations is a concern.
Personalized luggage tag
Custom luggage tags allow for almost unlimited customization. They can feature names, images, patterns and colors. Tip: Choose a brightly colored tag to make it easier to identify your bags at airport baggage claim.
Mini disposable toothbrushes
A pack of mini disposable toothbrushes will ensure travelers can freshen up during any stage of their journey. Mini toothbrushes fit easily into a handbag and provide a simple way to clean teeth and freshen breath. Passengers and their seat neighbors will be grateful for it.
Travel diary
After a vacation, friends and family members often want to hear all of the travelers’ exciting stories and experiences. With a small travel journal, precious memories can be saved and shared for years. Another benefit of a travel journal is promoting positive emotions while traveling, as expressing gratitude in a journal can affect well-being.
Noise canceling headphones
Noise-canceling headphones are a travel must-have if you’re willing to spend a little more money on socks. They help block out the loud sounds of airports, buses and trains. Travelers can listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks or stream content without worrying about the excess noise around them.
This holiday season, find the perfect gift for the seasoned traveler to the vacation novice, with customizable options, varying price ranges, and essential gadgets to make traveling a breeze.