Travel

Shopping for the traveler in your life? Think 'carry-on only'

Do you have a traveler on your holiday gift list? I do — and he's pickier than ever.

This traveler (OK … it's me!) insists that any and all gifts be small, sturdy and light. Remember: "carry-on only." That's a tall order for gift-givers. It rules out snow globes, bottles of wine and Christmas tree ornaments. Still, there's a long list of useful, compact travel accessories that no globetrotter should go without.

1. Water: If you're up in the air, you have to stay hydrated. Post-security, of course. I opt for the regular Nalgene wide-mouth bottle. But if you're traveling outside the U.S., be prepared for bad drinking water. You can opt for bottled water or soda pop. Or, you can get the high-tech "SteriPen" UV purification system. There's a "gift bundle" that includes the hand-held purification pen, plus a 21-ounce collapsible bottle. Cost: $79.95

2. Tools: These days, you have to check most tools, which goes against the "carry-on only" rule. But there is a collection of handy multitools developed by Zootility Tools. The "Pocket Monkey" fits in your wallet. It's smaller than a credit card and features a bottle opener, a flat screwdriver, a cord or zip-tie cutter, a hex wrench and a ruler, among other features. Made from stainless steel, it won't break or rust. I first saw these at REI, but you can order online. Cost: $14.

3. Shock cord: It's always a good idea to travel with rope. From tying the Christmas tree to the roof of the car to making two small bags into one to avoid a bag fee, rope comes in handy. There are several models available in several different colors. I first saw the "Alaska Survival Bracelet" last year at Eagle Enterprises. It features everything you need to start a fire: steel, tinder and scraper, all wrapped up in a rope bracelet.

4. Light: There's no substitute for a good headlamp. Your iPhone flashlight is nice, but you're going to need both your hands at some point. Or, you may want to read back at your hotel without the overhead light on. I just bought a super-bright Petzl headlamp at REI for $30. It's got three settings and it's perfect for mid-winter strolls in the dark. They were sold out of the Zipka model with the handy retractable headband. REI's model features a rechargeable battery-pack (not included).

5. Underwear: Hey — it's important when you're traveling. A few years back, I got hooked on the ExOfficio model. Since then, I've branched out to get their jacket and some shirts (both T-shirts and long-sleeve ones). But I keep coming back to the underwear. Aside from being comfy (this is, indeed, a subjective quality), they wash easily in the sink and dry quickly. This is crucial for the frequent traveler. I like the boxers, which run about $26 a pair. They're high-tech synthetic. I've had several pair for more than five years, and I wear them all the time.

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Another ExOfficio item that you wear next to your body but is not necessarily "underwear" is a radio-frequency identification "neck wallet." There are many variations of this accessory, and I have a couple. But I use one every time I travel internationally. It fits my passport and other important items. The RFID shield prevents thieves from using card-readers to access your data. Costs: $9.

6. Footwear: Face it — shoes are a fashion statement. It's a good idea to have sturdy walking shoes when you're traveling. But it's nice to have some slippers when you're not out on the trail. I'm still looking for some, actually. But I also wear compression socks on long flights because my feet swell up. You can go to a local pharmacy or order them on Amazon. The more they compress your legs, the more expensive they are. Check with your health care professional to find out which model is right for you.

7. Gloves: I've learned the hard way that it's a good idea to pack gloves. My go-to everyday travel gloves are made by Mountain Hardwear. They're made of Polartec fleece and have a snug wristband. Not only do they come in handy for an impromptu bike ride — sometimes the plane is freezing and you have to bundle up. I got my gloves at REI, but they're available everywhere.

8. Charger packs: Portable battery chargers are all the rage. Even though we all love our wireless devices, we're only as free as our power cords are long, eh? The RAVPower Quick Charge unit is a high-capacity charger that can boost several devices at once. It's a little bulkier than other units, but packs a bigger punch. Costs $60 on Amazon.com.

The Jackery Bolt compact charger is smaller and lighter, and probably will get you through the night until you find a proper plug. It will fully charge an iPhone 6 three times. There's also a built-in flashlight. Costs $26 at Amazon.com.

Many of the frequent travelers on your gift list have their own ideas about their electronics. They have a favorite laptop, a camera they love (or smartphone) and maybe even a tripod for those hard-to-get shots. They probably have their noise-canceling headphones (I like the ones by Bose).

Most travelers I know love to meet new people and visit new countries. At the airport, in the country, at the restaurant or later on at the rooftop bar. And it's more fun with a friend or a loved one. If you want to offer a memorable gift for a special traveler, why don't you arrange a trip so that you can go along? More than any gadget or fancy electronic device, they might appreciate the chance to share a special moment with a loved one in a new country. I know I would.

Scott McMurren is an Anchorage-based marketing consultant, serving clients in the transportation, hospitality, media and specialty destination sectors, among others. Contact him by email at zoom907@me.com. You can follow him on Twitter (@alaskatravelGRM) and alaskatravelgram.com. For more information, visit alaskatravelgram.com/about.

Scott McMurren

Scott McMurren is an Anchorage-based marketing consultant, serving clients in the transportation, hospitality, media and specialty destination sectors, among others. Contact him by email at zoom907@me.com. Subscribe to his e-newsletter at alaskatravelgram.com. For more information, visit alaskatravelgram.com/about.

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