Graduation Gift Guide: Travel-Friendly Essentials for the Adventurous Graduate

High school graduation marks a pivotal moment in a young adult’s life. It’s a time filled with excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a touch of trepidation as they embark on new adventures. For some, this means heading off to college in the fall. Others might be diving straight into the workforce. And then there are the fortunate few who seize the opportunity to explore the world during a gap year before settling into the next chapter.

If you have a graduate who has chosen the path of travel, whether it’s a short backpacking trip through Europe or a longer exploration of Southeast Asia, you’ll want to give them a gift that is both practical and inspiring. The ideal gift will not only enhance their travel experience but also contribute to their safety, comfort, and overall enjoyment of the journey.

Here are 11 travel-friendly gifts that any globetrotting graduate will be sure to appreciate:

Luggage: The Foundation of Any Great Trip

Suitcase

A reliable suitcase is the cornerstone of any travel adventure. It needs to be spacious enough to hold all of your essentials, durable enough to withstand the rigors of travel, and easy to maneuver through airports and train stations.

Look for a hardshell suitcase. Hardshell suitcases provide superior protection for your belongings, especially fragile items. They are also more resistant to scratches and dents than softshell suitcases.

The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner Suitcase is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. Priced under $100, it offers a durable hardshell construction and ample packing space.

For those seeking a more luxurious option, consider Roam Luggage. Roam suitcases are known for their lightweight design, high-quality materials, and eye-catching colors. Their suitcases are also customizable, allowing you to create a truly unique piece of luggage.

Carry-on

A well-chosen carry-on bag is essential for keeping your valuables close at hand during flights. It should be the right size to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, and it should have plenty of pockets and compartments for organizing your belongings.

Walmart offers a selection of affordable carry-on bags under $100 that are both compact and functional.

If you’re looking for a carry-on that matches your Roam suitcase, you can also purchase a carry-on from Roam in the same bright colors and customizable designs.

Power and Connectivity: Staying Charged and Connected

Travel Adapter

Different countries use different types of electrical outlets. A universal travel adapter is a must-have for any international traveler, allowing you to charge your phone, laptop, and other electronic devices no matter where you are in the world.

Amazon sells a universal travel adapter that is compatible with outlets in North America, Europe, China, South Korea, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, and Brazil.

Best Buy also offers a variety of travel adapters to suit your needs.

Portable Charger

When you’re on the go, you may not always have access to an electrical outlet. A portable charger, also known as a power bank, can be a lifesaver in these situations. It allows you to charge your phone or other devices without needing to plug into a wall.

Amazon offers a variety of compact and lightweight portable chargers, including one that can charge a phone to 60% in just 30 minutes.

Walmart also sells portable chargers with multiple charging ports for different types of cables.

Comfort and Safety: Enhancing the Travel Experience

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Long flights and crowded airports can be noisy and stressful. Noise-canceling headphones can help you block out the distractions and relax.

Bose QuietComfort headphones are widely regarded as the best noise-canceling headphones on the market. They offer premium noise cancellation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a long battery life.

Skullcandy makes stylish and high-quality headphones that come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Personal Safety Alarm

Traveling alone can be empowering, but it’s important to take precautions to protect your safety. A personal safety alarm is a small, portable device that emits a loud siren and flashing strobe lights when activated, deterring potential attackers and alerting others to your presence.

The Birdie personal safety alarm, available on Amazon, is a popular choice.

Walmart also offers similar, more affordable alarms that can be easily attached to your bag.

Travel Pillow

A comfortable travel pillow can make all the difference on a long flight. It helps to support your neck and head, allowing you to sleep more restfully.

The Infinity Pillow is a popular option. It is easily moldable and made from breathable materials for added comfort. It can be purchased on the Infinity website or through Amazon.

Travel Blanket

Travel blankets provide warmth and comfort on planes, trains, and in hotel rooms or hostels.

Amazon sells a travel blanket that can be easily converted into a soft pillow.

Rumpl offers travel-size down blankets that fold up into the size of a water bottle when not in use.

Organization and Security: Keeping Things Safe and Secure

Luggage Tracker

Losing your luggage can be a major headache. A luggage tracker can help you keep track of your bags and locate them if they get lost.

Tile trackers are a popular option. Simply place a Tile tracker in your suitcase and connect it to your phone. You can purchase Tile trackers from Amazon or in a four-pack from the Tile website.

Passport Cover

Passports are small and easy to lose. A passport cover can help you keep track of your passport and protect it from wear and tear.

Amazon offers a variety of passport covers in bright colors for around $10.

For a more luxurious gift, consider a leather passport cover from Smythson.

The Perfect Gift: Cash or an Airbnb Gift Card

Cash

Sometimes the best gift is simply cash. Cash allows the graduate to use the money however they see fit, whether it’s for paying for transportation, accommodations, or activities.

Airbnb Gift Card

If you’re looking for a more specific gift, an Airbnb gift card is a great option. Airbnb gift cards can be used to book lodging anywhere in the world.

Airbnb gift cards can be purchased through PayPal.

With these travel-friendly gifts, you can help your graduate embark on their adventure with confidence, comfort, and style. Happy travels!