By Stephanie Hutchens
So your favorite globetrotter is setting out on the adventure of a lifetime in the new year. Great timing, because the holidays are the perfect opportunity to gift essentials to help make their trip the best one yet. Whether they’re headed to a ski lodge, a sandy beach or St. Paddy’s in its hometown, our seasoned travelers turned editors’ list of the 10 budget-friendly gift reccomendations we can’t live without can help you pick the perfect present for the traveller on your list.
1. Sleep Anywhere:
Trust me when I say if there is one thing you need from this list, it’s this neck pillow, eye mask and ear plug set. Not only do I not wake up with a tweek in my neck, but I can fall asleep anywhere. While neck pillows are one of the most popular items to pack for overnight trips, many of them don’t live up to the job of supporting your neck comfortably. Comfortable, easy to pack, and great for those overnight bus rides; basically, a life saver!
If you’re looking for something that packs down even smaller, the TRTL Travel Pillow is pretty great too! It may look like a cozy scarf, but it’s actually the most ingenious travel pillow yet.
Amazon.com | $19
2. Be Powerful:
There is nothing worse than a dead phone, especially when you’re traveling and need it most. Whether trying to snap the views of the Austrian Alps on a drive through the countryside, or looking up directions to the best local café, this portable charger will make sure you’re always powered up no matter what. Able to charge your phone up to 3 full charges, it’s the perfect gift for someone going on full-day excursions and overnight trips!
Amazon.com | $32
3. Keep Carrying On:
This bag is the perfect size for your weekend getaway and meets all the carry on requirements. Not only does this water proof bag turn into a backpack from a duffel, but it has a variety of different smaller compartments, making it easy to pack and organize your things.
Patagonia.com | $129
4. Be Adaptable:
Whether listening to music on the bus, watching a movie during your layover at the airport or just hanging out in your hostel room, there never seems to be enough adapters for all our gadgets. This travel adapter and surge protector not only gives you extra outlets, but also comes with 4 USB plugs and converters for up to 150 countries.
Amazon.com | $39
5. Don’t Miss A Moment:
This one button, easy to use GoPro Hero 5 Session Holiday Bundle is not only compact and waterproof, but it’s the best way to capture every adventure. This new session has a voice controller, so you don’t have to mess around with buttons to shoot footage or take your favorite selfie. This pocket-sized gift is great for skiiers, hikers, swimmers and everyone in between.
If you’re not looking to splurge, check out this 4-in-1 phone lens to give you that DSLR quality for a fraction of the price!
Amazon.com | $249
6. Liven The Party:
You cannot beat this small but mighty speaker. Not only is it waterproof, but its Bluetooth capability allows you to play your favorite songs no matter where you are. This little guy comes in handy whether your laying on the beach in Amalfi or picnic-ing, vino and baguettes included, in front of the Eiffel Tower. It’s to use, quick to charge and you can bring it everywhere with no hassle.
Amazon.com | $16
7. Proof Your Life:
There is nothing worse than breaking your phone abroad. With this LifeProof battery charging case, your iPhone is pretty close to invincible. Waterproof, dirt-proof, and drop-proof, it’s the perfect present for the traveller whose looking to dance the night away without a care!
Amazon.com | $149
8. Travel Effortlessly:
Ever get to the airport or bus station and can’t seem to find your wallet, ticket or passport? Us too. This multi-purpose travel wallet makes it easy by keeping all your important documents in one easy to access place. It is made for holding your passport, cards, ID, boarding passes, cash, and basically anything else your trip requires, making your next trip stress-free and organized.
Amazon.com | $7
9. Plan Ahead:
Whether planning ahead for spring break, or just jotting down the name of your favorite café and study spot in Florence to recommend to your friends, this notebook is the perfect way to keep track of all your must-dos, must-sees and must-eats. Double it as a planner, and it’s perfect for mapping out your trips to come. (Don’t you just love having something to look forward to?)
Amazon.com | $12
10. Make It Count:
Never wonder if your bags are over weight again before your next trip with this at home luggage scale. This small and easy to use gadget will save you time in the check-in line and allow you to shove in that extra pair of shoes you went back and forth about (the answer is always yes, bring more shoes.)
Amazon.com | $6
*We only recommend items we love, so we hope you love them too. Bus2alps may collect a small commission from the links in this post.*
