It has been a couple of years since we discovered the joys of backpacking. The more we followed through on our new passion, the more we began to realize that there were particular items that could make our travels easier. Most of them revolve around reducing the weight of the things that we carry.
Travelling as light as possible is what most backpackers aspire to do. Most of the things that they carry along are light, multifunctional and durable. At the end of the day, you want something that lasts because when you are on the road, it is really hard to find replacements. If you do, it can come at a hefty price.
With that in mind, I decided to put together a list of what I consider the best gifts for backpackers.
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Best Electronic Gifts For Backpackers
In today’s world electronic gadgets play a big role in our lives. As a backpacker who has been on the road for a long while, I know just how disconnected I can feel when my gadget fails or if it is too heavy that I need to leave it behind. Here are a couple of electronic gifts for backpackers that should be you should consider.
1. Portable Power Bank
Travel without a phone seems almost impossible in today’s world. If you think about it, we use our phone for so much. We use it for maps, to stay in touch, order a cab and so much more.
Unfortunately the phone doesn’t remain charged for long. This is especially difficult if you are on a long journey with no place to charge your phone. That is where a portable power bank is a lifesaver. It is also helpful to charge other gadgets like your kindle, your smart watch or even your headphones.
2. Lightweight Laptop
If you are looking for a gift for a backpacker who works on the road and don’t mind buying an expensive gift then you should think of a lightweight laptop. I may be a bit partial to the Dell XPS line. Apple also has its own range of light weight laptops called the Macbook air. The Microsoft Surface Pro is another laptop that would fit the bill.
3. Camera
Every traveler tries to capture their moments on the road. Some people prefer to use the camera on their phones. In fact, the cameras on the phones have become quite good. If the backpacker that you are buying a gift for loves photography, then getting them a good travel camera is a great option.
A Go-Pro is a great option if you are looking for something rugged, waterproof and action based. If you are looking for something more in the professional photography section, then the Sony Alpha series is a great option. The interchangeable lenses make the camera versatile and fun to use.
4. Noise Canceling Earphones
When you are on the go, noise can get to you. Sometimes you need a bit a peace and quiet when you are on the road for a long while. One way to get that is to buy yourself a good pair of noise canceling earphones or headphones. That is what makes them a great idea as a good gift for backpackers. We recommend the Bose brand which we have been using for a while and love.
The Apple airpods are another popular choice. These are light, efficient and portable. They are also expensive.
5. Bluetooth Speakers
If the person you are looking to buy a gift for is a fan of music then the ideal gift would be a portable speaker. Today there are a variety of different types of small pocket sized Bluetooth speakers that are available. They are quite affordable, and it is definitely a gift that would make an impression. There are even waterproof speakers which are perfect for beach and poolside parties.
6. E-Readers
A lot of people love to read. The downside to travel is that you can’t really carry books everywhere you go. Backpackers love to travel light so this can pose a problem for an avid reader. E-readers have solved this dilemma. There are a number of different options out there: Kindle and Kobo are a the more popular options.
7. Smart Watch
A smart watch is a great gift for backpackers. It allows a person to multitask without having to pull out their phone. It is definitely something that comes in handy when a person is on the go. I have found that the step counter and the heart rate counter also keep me motivated to ensure that I am healthy when I travel which is often difficult when I don’t have a fixed routine. That is one of the big reasons why I put a smart watch on the list of gifts for backpackers.
8. Outlet Converter
Every country in the world has a different power outlet. That means that every time you hop from one country to another, you will face the conundrum as your gadgets may not be able to be charged. Outlet converters are an essential part of everyone’s list of travel essentials. There are a number of really cool outlet converters that are available in the market.
Best Packing Gifts For Backpackers
Another set of gifts for backpackers that should be considered are items that help a person pack their stuff efficiently. Carrying minimal items is one thing, having them well packed and easily accessible is another. Luckily there are a number of ways in which a person can choose to organize their gear. Many of those make ideal gifts for backpackers.
9. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are a great way to keep all your stuff organized. At first we found ourselves packing and unpacking everything at every stop we made. Once we started using packing cubes, our backpack became so much more organized. If you haven’t started using packing cubes yet or you aren’t sure how to pick the right one then you should take a look at our guide to buying the right packing cubes. They definitely make it a great gift for backpackers.
10. Vacuum Seal Bags
Vacuum seal bags are God sent when you are trying to pack a lot of stuff in a bag. This is especially true when you are trying to fit in a lot of warm clothes in a tiny backpack. Using a vacuum seal bag reduces the space they occupy immensely, and it can be packed away in the backpack when you visit warm weather locations.
The downside to vacuum seal bags is finding a way to reseal them once you open them up. That makes them one of the most ideal gifts for backpackers.
Best Lightweight Gifts For Backpackers
When packing things into a backpack, you are going to want to find the lightest possible alternatives to daily products. There are a couple of items that would make perfect gifts for backpackers. Take a look at the list of items that we have put together below for inspiration.
11. Pocket Blanket
A blanket comes in pretty handy. It keeps you warm on those long trips through the cold airports and planes. It also helps as an added layer when the linen is not quite sufficient in the places that you stay. The problem however is that carrying a blanket is difficult because it is bulky and almost impossible to pack. That is where a pocket blanket is high on the list of gifts for backpackers.
12. Microfiber Towel
You can’t travel without a towel. At least I can’t. I love knowing that the towel that I use is my own and that is especially true when we choose accommodation that is on the lower end of the budget.
A good microfiber towel is light, easily packable and is invaluable particularly if you are going to a beach location. It is definitely one of the big (or should I say small) items on our list of gifts for backpackers.
13. Travel Clothes
Travel clothes are always a great option as gifts. If you are thinking of shopping for clothes as a gift then think of something that is lightweight, easily washable and dries quickly. Darker colours are a great way to go. They do not show dirt easily and are great when you are on the road.
If the material is wrinkle free then you will definitely score bonus points. It is definitely one of the easier items on our list of gifts for backpackers to shop for.
14. Lightweight Jacket
A good lightweight jacket is an essential part of any backpacker’s luggage if they are headed to a cold location. We have a couple of jackets from Columbia which are awesome. Down jackets are pretty easy to pack since they fold really nicely. They also keep the wearer warm. It makes one of those perfect gifts for backpackers.
Best Sustainable Travel Gifts For Backpackers
There are a number of sustainable gifts for backpackers that should be on your list. Why should you consider putting sustainable items on your list? Because they are good for the environment and everyone should make an effort towards ensuring that we protect it.
Most backpackers are conscious about the effect their actions have on the world around them.
15. Collapsible Water Bottle
One of the ways that travellers contribute to the plastic around is by buying a lot of packaged water. Who can fault them because everyone needs to drink right? One way to ensure that you reduce using and contributing to the number of plastic bottles that dumped in the trash.
A collapsible water bottle definitely helps reduce that. In fact, a lot of cafes and hostels set up stations where you can fill your water bottle for free.
16. Life Straw
I have not had a chance to try out the life straw yet, but I have heard a lot of great reviews about it. It helps to filter the water before you drink it. This is particularly useful when you are traveling in a country that does not have drinkable tap water.
It is a popular choice for backpackers who are traveling through south east Asia. Definitely one of those things that you should add to your list of gifts for backpackers who are headed that way.
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