2023 Traveler’s Gift Guide
The holiday season is just around the corner. If you are anything like me, you struggle to find something to get your friends, family, and the explorers in your life. So, to make things a little easier, I put together this gift guide with some of the most valued items in my travel kit. These gifts are invaluable for those setting off on a solo expedition, embarking on a scenic drive, or taking refuge in the wilderness.
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Garmin InReach Mini GPS Satellite Locator
Peace of Mind in the Palm of Their Hand
Every explorer venturing into the unknown needs to have a lifeline. The Garmin InReach Mini is a great lifeline to have. This GPS device is crucial for staying updated with real-time weather forecasts, location tracking, and elevation profiles. It also has the ability to send SOS signals directly to rescue teams – an indispensable feature for remote area trekkers.
While it does require a monthly subscription, the service’s flexibility allows users to pause it as needed, making it a savvy gift for those who toggle between adventures and home life. This has become an integral part of my travel kit, not just because of the GPS capabilities but because of the real-time weather updates it provides. The device even allows you to communicate with a set of pre-defined emergency contacts using SMS messages, allowing you to keep in touch with loved ones.
NOCO Boost Jump Starter
A Reliable Restart on Remote Roads
The possibility of a dead vehicle battery in the middle of nowhere is a daunting thought for any traveler. With the NOCO Boost Jump Starter, you can put those thoughts to rest. This compact tool can quickly revive your vehicle’s battery without needing another person.
This is an excellent tool for any traveler, but for the explorers who venture deep into the wilderness, it is a necessity. It's an invaluable addition to any road trip kit.
OBD-II Scanner
The Road Trip Worry Wart
Nothing puts a damper on a scenic drive like an illuminated check engine light. Is it a critical issue or just a dirty downstream oxygen sensor?! The OBD-II Scanner is your best way to find out the issue. It is a compact, easy-to-use device that quickly diagnoses vehicle issues.
This is a wonderful gift for the road-trippers in your life, whether traveling near or far. It's a thoughtful gift to help keep their travels smooth and stress-free.
DeepSleep Solo Mat
Dreamy Comfort for the Weary Wanderer
Rest is as crucial as adventure, and the DeepSleep Solo Mat promises to turn the back of an SUV into a luxury sleeping space. These sleeping pads are designed to fit snugly around various vehicle interiors, offering maximum comfort.
They are also extremely versatile – buy one for a single side of the vehicle or two to fill up the entire back area. These sleeping mats are self-inflating with a memory foam topper. So even in cold weather, you don’t have to worry about them deflating to an uncomfortable level.
Its superior insulation keeps the cold at bay, ensuring a warm, comfortable slumber under the stars. It's the perfect solo camping accessory with durable, all-weather material and easy setup.
Klean Kanteen 20 oz Insulated Bottle
Hydration for the High Roads and Beyond
Staying hydrated is fundamental on any journey, and the Klean Kanteen 20 oz insulated bottle is the eco-friendly way to do it. This bottle keeps drinks hot for 20 hours or iced for 50, making it ideal for any climate your traveler might encounter. Durable and designed for easy sipping on the go, it's a gift that supports the environment and the adventurous spirit.
America the Beautiful Pass
An Open Ticket to Natural Splendor
For an all-access pass to the nation’s natural treasures, gift the America the Beautiful Pass. It’s the ultimate present for nature enthusiasts, offering entry to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. Each pass covers entrance fees at national parks and national wildlife refuges, as well as standard amenity fees at national forests and grasslands.
I could go on and on about how wonderful these annual passes are, but I already did that in a previous post, so check it out for more details.
Give the Gift of Exploration
These thoughtful gifts are a way to show the traveler in your life that you support their explorative spirits. From the practicality of a reliable GPS to the cozy comfort of a vehicle-ready sleeping pad and the access provided by America the Beautiful Pass, these presents will surely be appreciated and used.
As you choose gifts that are as adventurous as the traveler receiving them this holiday season, remember that you’re not just giving objects — you’re giving experiences, memories, and the joy of discovery.
Happy holidays and happy trails to all the explorers out there!
