Pricey and budget versions of five popular travel-related gifts: universal adapter, daypack, packing cubes, wireless noise-canceling earbuds, and spinner carry-on suitcase.
As the holidays approach, I’m starting to think of what to give friends for when we can travel the world again. Here are budget and pricey (including one in the ridiculous realm) options for five popular travel-related gifts.
1. Universal adapter
Steal ($10): TryAce’s universal power adapter comes with three outlets, four plugs, and works in 190 countries.
Splurge ($23): Flight 001’s high-quality 5-in-1 Universal Adapter has four color-coded plugs that fit together as a cuboid, can be used in 150 different countries, and includes two USB ports. I’ve used this on five continents without a problem!
2. Daypack
Steal ($16): The ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack is water-resistant and has padded straps, a top handle, and three zippered compartments. The main compartment is large enough to carry a jacket, camera, tablet, and snacks with room left over. The smaller outer pocket gives quick access to items like your phone and guidebook, while the inner zippered pocket doubles as a storage pouch for the bag and is perfect for cash, credit cards, and passport. Two side mesh pockets hold water bottles or an umbrella. Thirteen cool colors to choose from. I’ve used mine on bike trips in Italy, Spain, South Africa, and Vietnam—it still looks new after many washings.
Splurge ($100): The unisex TUMI Voyageur Just In Case Backpack provides double-zip entry to the main compartment and includes a zip-front pocket, top grab handle, adjustable backpack straps, and an add-a-bag sleeve. It folds completely flat, making it easy to pack. Perfect for day trips or as your personal item on a flight. It also has enough polish to carry for business.
3. Packing cubes
Steal ($21): The AmazonBasics 4 Piece Packing Cubes Set comes in six colors, has double-zipper pulls for easy access and a carry handle, along with a mesh top panel for ventilation (the mesh also makes it easy to see what’s inside.) The tough nylon is machine-washable.
Splurge ($37-$42): One of the best things about the Eagle Creek Pack-it Specter Starter Set is how lightweight it is. Another plus is the garment envelope; it fits in most carry-on luggage, holds 8-12 dress shirts or trousers, and comes with a folding board so your clothes stay relatively wrinkle-free. The packing cubes’ handles make it easy to grab them from your suitcase. I’ve taken my Eagle Creek Specters in my carry-on on every trip of the past seven years—82 countries (with many repeats). No rips, no broken zippers, no stains that didn’t come clean in the washing machine. And they really do weigh almost nothing!
4. Wireless Noise-Canceling Earbuds
Steal ($18): Cshidworld’s wireless earbuds are waterproof, noise-canceling, and offer 4-5 hours of playtime from a single charge (plus 30 extra hours in the portable charging case). USB-C charging connector. The sound is crisp, with good treble and decent bass. And at this price point, you won’t have a heart attack when you lose one.
Splurge ($220): Apple AirPods Pro need no introduction; for many (including me) they live up to the hype.
5. Spinner Carry-on
Steal ($50): Goplus Expandable Carry On Luggage (20”) is lightweight, has 360-degree wheels, telescopic trolley handle, and a large interior space that’s expandable by two inches. The reinforced corners and textured ABS shell mean it can take a beating. It’s available in black, blue, purple, red, and pink.
It also has one of the goofiest-looking promo images ever. (What the heck is that on the wall?) ;
Splurge ($1000): The interior of the TUMI 19 Degree International Carry-On features two mesh zip pockets, zip divider, one card pocket, and a hanger bracket. The exterior includes a three-stage telescoping handle system with push button, retractable top and side carry handles, four dual-spinning wheels, hanger bracket, two integrated TSA locks., and protective bumpers. Available in glossy black or bright silver aluminum.
Super-Splurge ($3200): The Rimowa x Moncler “Reflection” series is the latest collaboration between the iconic luggage brand and a European design house, which in the past have included Dior, Off-White, and Supreme. Integrated locks, reinforced corners, silver packing cubes, and a luggage strap are included. Good thing Rimowa’s signature look is a few dings (to prove you actually use the bag) because I don’t think overhead bins will be kind to the Reflection’s aluminum exterior (so polished, it can serve as a mirror).
Ridiculous ($?): The Reflections carry-on is also available with a removable LED screen that displays ticker-style red text (customizable via an app). You know, in case you aren’t posting to social media enough.
Twist’s Take: Choose to steal or splurge on these five popular travel-related gifts. And if you’re a Bond girl on a mission to the Swiss Alps, you may want to consider the Reflections carry-on. Just don’t opt for the LED version. Really.
