Whether you have a weekend warrior, a #vanlifer, or a wanderer that just can’t seem to stay in one place on your holiday shopping list this year, we know just what they want for Christmas. From the best gear that helps busy travelers stay plugged in on the road, to upgrades for adventure vans and vehicles, to some of the most functional travel packs on the market, check out these top gifts to give the nomad in your life this holiday season.
Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC Power Bank
One of the most challenging aspects of constantly being on the road is staying connected. Enter Goal Zero’s Sherpa 100AC Power Bank — a workhorse that keeps everything from cell phones to power-hungry laptops juiced up. The sleek and compact design of this 94.72Wh power bank makes it easy to stash in any travel pack, and features like wireless charging, high speed power delivery, and a variety of useful ports make it a must-have piece of gear for anyone needing to stay connected while on the go.
$299.95; goalzero.com
Yakima BackSwing
That weekend warrior on your list might not be fully committed to the #vanlife movement yet, but you better believe their truck or SUV is outfitted for maximum adventure capacity and long road trips. Make their adventures a little smoother, and more fun, by giving the gift of the Yakima BackSwing. This super efficient hitch adapter turns an inconvenient, stationary bike rack into a swing away rack — which makes accessing things like packs, coolers, and other gear in the back of the vehicle a breeze — even with a fully-loaded bike rack on the back. The Yakima BackSwing is sure to be a hit with any avid bikers on your list. $329; yakima.com
BioLite SolarHome 620
Do you have a rambling #vanlifer on your shopping list this year? They’ll be stoked to open BioLite’s SolarHome 620 on Christmas morning. The solar powered, portable kit includes at 6W solar panel that connects to a 20 Wh control box which powers up three overhead lights, an MP3/FM radio system, and a USB charge-out port. The SolarHome features a 20 watt hour battery inside of the control box, and an LED display that provides info on sun strength and power levels. The kit transforms any adventure van into well-lit adventure home. $149.95; bioliteenergy.com
PackTowel Personal Towel
A quick-drying towel that doesn’t take up much room in a travel pack is an essential piece of gear for most travelers. The PackTowel is available in a range of sizes, and is incredibly lightweight, absorbent and drys quickly. It’s also highly packable, which is key for backpackers and travelers who only rock carry-on luggage. From camp towels, to a towel for the beach, or just a personal towel to always have on hand during a stay at an Airbnb, PackTowels make excellent gifts for travelers of all types. $9.95-$44.95; packtowl.com
OluKai ‘Ohana Sandal
Every busy traveler needs a comfortable pair of sandals, and OluKai makes some of the most snug sandals on the market. The company’s popular ‘Ohana sandal is available in men’s and women’s sizing and is composed of a compression molded EVA midsole with an anatomical fit, and a super grippy outsole. The ‘Ohana’s upper is made out of a water-resistant, quick-drying material, which makes this sandal a durable, comfortable piece of travel footwear that will withstand many adventures. $65; olukai.com
Black Ember Citadel Modular Pack
If you have a nomadic photog on your list, they’ll surely love Black Ember’s Citadel Modular Pack. The pack’s design is built around compartments that neatly lock into the interior, perfect for keeping camera gear organized, and protected and separate from personal items. The 25L pack features an airflow back panel, 3D shoulder straps and waterproof materials. The Citadel has multiple carrying options, removable straps, and a handful of thoughtful add-ons to customize your pack, like compression straps, pouches, and various sizes of interior compartments. $255; blackember.com
Eagle Creek Pack-it Active Essential Set
Stay organized and keep your dirty shoes separate from your clean clothes with Eagle Creek’s Pack-it Active Essential Set. The set includes a Pack-it Active Cube and a Pack-it Active Roll Top Shoe Sac. Both feature two-way self-repairing zippers, easy-to-grab handles, and antimicrobial fabric. The ultra-light set is also made with water repellent fabric that is machine washable and easy to clean. $24.95; eaglecreek.com
GRAYL Ultralight Purifier
Whether you have someone on your list that seeks out adventure in remote places, or is always on the move from city to city, a solid water filtration system always makes a handy gift. GRAYL’s Ultralight Purifier is a filtration system and water bottle in one, and an efficient way to enjoy clean water anywhere in the world. The bottle weighs in at a mere 10.9 ounces and the one-press system filters out viruses, bacteria, protozoa, particulates, chemicals and heavy metals. $59.95; thegrayl.com
Osprey Transporter 40 Expedition Duffel
Osprey builds some of the burliest, most functional travel packs around, and the Transporter 40 is no exception. The 40L expedition duffel can be conveniently carried as a duffel, or a backpack, and is made out of a tough, dual-sided TPU coated nylon material that will endure the most rugged adventures. The pack also features a lockable and spacious main compartment, and a weather-protected main compartment to keep important items like your phone protected. And, the pack comes with Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee, which makes it the gift that will keep on giving, and giving, and giving.
$110; osprey.com
