The holiday season is upon us once again, and this year’s shopping mayhem comes with the extra pressure of knowing that there is actually less time between Thanksgiving and Christmas. You’ll have to double your efforts to get it all pulled together.
Don’t panic, though. I’m hear to help you find the perfect gift for the traveler in your life, and maybe even show you a few things you simply can’t live without!
GR1 Rucksack from GoRuck ($295)
I’ve seen first hand the versatility of this bag. I’ve trained with it, traveled with it, and even competed in one of GoRuck’s events, with one of these babies loaded down with 50lbs of gear on my back and watched as the bags of others’ fell apart under the stress. You won’t have that problem with the GR1. Don’t you dare call it a “backpack.” It’s so much more. The numerous pockets and the design are reasons enough to hit the road with this tough mother. When you add in the construction quality, materials used, the warranty, AND the fact that you’ll feel like a total bad ass special forces soldier when you wear it, you’ll know it’s a deal.
Power grid from Tego ($59)
Do you remember the old shoe commercial that used the slogan “Looks like a shoe, but feels like a sneaker?” The fine folks a Tego have come up with a handy dandy charger for all of your digital devices that looks like a Lego, but works like an electrical outlet. It’s lightweight, small, and easy to use, and comes in four different colors. It can charge two devices at once or one phone twice. It’s perfect for using when you are on the go or in parts of the world where electrical outlets are either hard to come by or don’t strike you as trustworthy.
Voyage Upright Suitcase ($199)
If you’re on the road often, you’ve no doubt learned the importance of a good suitcase. It should be sturdy and well designed, but most importantly, it should stand out on the luggage carousel! Fab.com (my favorite online retailer of awesomely cool goods) have launched their own line of luggage. It meets all of the requirements, and even comes with wheels! It comes in several colors, too! I especially like the red version, and can’t wait to get my hands on it. As their description says, “don’t be surprised when that hot flight attendant gives you a compliment (and a telephone number). Because, as the age-old saying goes, you are what you lug.”
Printstagram Print ($25-$60)
When I’m traveling, I’m taking pictures. I have books and books of photos, but I’m always looking for other ways of showcasing my trips. I love what Printstagram can do. Upload a few of your photos and they will print them off in grid for you, frame the print, or upload dozens and have a poster printed. Both of them will make a statement on your wall. Imagine a whole trip’s worth or images hanging in one elegantly laid out frame. The next time you have company over, be prepared to spread the word about Printstagram. It’s a conversation starter. You can also print single prints, books, calendars, and even cards!
Luckies of London Scratch Map ($18.21)
Whether you’re a kid or a kid a heart, keep track of your travels by scratching off the countries you’ve visited. Coming in at just over 2 ½ feet long, this map is the perfect way to showcase where you’ve been, and encourages you to travel more, if for no other reason than to keep scratching the gold covering off. It’s equal parts adventure and lottery ticket. What’s not to love?
Pelican Micro Case ($20.92)
You don’t have to be an outdoor enthusiast to realize the value of the Pelican Micro Case. It’s waterproof, crush proof, and dust proof. It’s a great box that’s easy to pack, and it’s the perfect size to keep your phone, cords, or wallet safe and dry. It’s made from polycarbonate and includes a rubber liner for padding and waterproofing, available in a variety of colors, and comes with a carabineer. I’ve hiked, flown, biked, rucked, and lived it up in a penthouse suite, all with the Pelican Micro Case in by bag.
The World’s Religions by Huston Smith ($16.99)
Religion can be complicated and a tricky thing to wrap your head around sometimes. Nothing else in the world has caused so much torment and joy. Famed author Huston Smith puts it all in perspective for you in this book. He discusses the key beliefs and practices of each of the worlds major religions in a style that is endlessly readable and understandable. This is the perfect read to have a deeper understanding of different cultures, and to inspire you to plan your next trip.
Bentoware Lunch Boxes ($23-$40)
Planning a day trip but dread the idea of fast food? Bentoware has got you covered. I love the idea of bento boxes, the small individual containers that fit together that are so common in Japan (and Japanese restaurants), and now you can have your very own. It’s a great system for keeping foods separated and proportioned; the color schemes and cases are eye catching. Bento boxes are increasingly popular in the U.S., and there are clear reasons why.
“The Holiday,” “The Family Stone,” and “Christmas Vacation” (prices vary depending on format)
Perhaps there is no greater joy for the traveler at this time of year than actually settling down, burrowing into the couch, sipping a hot beverage, and watching movies about the travels and travails of others. These films are sure to fill you with the spirit of Christmas and remind you of the warmth (and dysfunction) of family. This handy combo pack has everything you need to get you through the holidays: Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, romance, laughs, sadness, life, death, and Cousin Eddie.
www.amazon.com, www.netflix.com,
Kiehl’s Assorted Products ($29-$80)
It doesn’t matter if you’ve just gotten home or are in the middle of a trip – sometimes you just need to take care of yourself. Kiehl’s has put together an assortment of their terrific skin care products for the holidays. These goodie bags are decked out in packaging designed by New York City graffiti artist Haze, which means it looks as good as you will after you slather on their lotions. I can speak from experience when I tell you that their Men’s Facial Fuel products are nothing short of A-MAZ-ING!
Toland Travels 
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