It can be challenging to find the best gift for backpackers through Asia. Anyone in your family who loves to travel will love these best gift ideas. These thoughtful gifts are useful, like a power bank that doesn’t take up much room in carry-on luggage or a one-of-a-kind travel gift idea.
You can find the perfect gift here. Choose thoughtful gifts and the best gifts that will make the trip through Southeast Asia unforgettable!
1. Universal Travel Adapter
The EPICKA Universal Travel Power Adapter is a charger that can be used in multiple countries. It works in more than 150 countries and comes with 4 types of plugs (US, UK, EU, and AUS). It has one AC plug, four USB-A ports, and one USB-C port, so it can charge up to six devices at the same time.
This adapter is safety-certified and comes with a 10A fuse, safety shutters, and a plug lock system. It is a reliable and necessary item to bring on trips.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 4 USB-A ports (2.4A), 1 USB-C port (3A), AC socket, safety-certified with built-in 10A fuse, safety shutters, and plug lock system.
- Ideal for: Travelers needing to charge phones, laptops, tablets, and other devices in over 150 countries.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5 stars from over 15,600 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Charges up to 6 devices at once, worldwide compatibility, built-in safety features, compact and portable design, and a 2-year limited warranty.
2. GRAYL GeoPress 24 oz Water Purifier Bottle
The GRAYL GeoPress 24 oz Water Purifier Bottle is a quick and simple way to filter water that is perfect for camping, hiking, and traveling around the world. It can clean 24 oz of water in 8 seconds and gets rid of viruses, bacteria, protozoa, chemicals, and particles. Its BPA-free construction and cartridge that can be changed make it a long-lasting and dependable tool for getting clean water anywhere.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: Removes viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and particulates; purifies 24 oz in 8 seconds; one-way drink mix valve; ergonomic SoftPress pads; replaceable cartridge rated for 65 gallons (250L).
- Ideal for: Hikers, campers, survivalists, and travelers needing quick and reliable purified water.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5 stars from over 4,400 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Fast purification, worldwide pathogen removal, durable BPA-free design, no setup required, and easy-to-replace filter cartridge.
3. Noise-Cancelling Headphones (Sony WH-1000XM4)
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones have Dual Noise Sensor technology, which gives them the best noise cancellation in their class. They’re great for long listening sessions, phone calls, and travel because the battery lasts for 30 hours and the controls are touch sensors.
The Speak-to-Chat and Adaptive Sound Control features on these headphones make the listening experience more personal.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: Active noise cancellation, 30-hour battery life, touch sensor controls, Speak-to-Chat, multipoint connection, and superior call quality with five built-in microphones.
- Ideal for: Travelers, commuters, audiophiles, and professionals needing high-quality audio and noise cancellation.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5 stars from over 58,500 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Exceptional noise cancellation, long-lasting comfort, seamless multi-device pairing, fast charging, and customizable sound settings.
4. INIU Portable Charger
The 10000mAh INIU Portable Charger is thin and light, and it’s made for travelers who need a reliable, fast charger. It can charge up to three devices at once thanks to its USB-C input/output and dual USB-A ports. It’s only 0.5 inches thick, so it fits perfectly in pockets or carry-on luggage. This makes it a great gift for digital nomads and backpackers.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 10000mAh capacity, USB-C in/out, 3A high-speed charging, dual USB-A ports, 15-layer SmartProtect system, ultra-slim 0.5-inch design.
- Ideal for: Travelers, backpackers, and digital nomads needing a compact power source for their devices.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5 stars from over 68,500 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Charges multiple devices, fits in small spaces, decent battery life, durable design, and an affordable price.
5. Money Belt (Alpha Keeper)
With the RFID Money Belt for Travel, you can safely hide your passport, money, and other important documents under your clothes in a thin pouch. It’s made of RFID-blocking material, so it keeps your electronics safe, and the adjustable strap and breathable mesh make it comfortable to wear all day. Men and women who want a safe, hands-free way to carry valuables will love this travel wallet.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: RFID-blocking material, durable nylon lining, secure zipper closure, adjustable strap (fits up to 55″), breathable mesh for comfort.
- Ideal for: Travelers who need to keep passports, money, and other valuables hidden and secure.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5 stars from over 11,700 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Protects against RFID theft, discreet design for wearing under clothes, adjustable fit, and hands-free convenience.
6. Travel Towel (Rainleaf Microfiber)
For travel, the gym, camping, and the beach, the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is a versatile towel that dries quickly and soaks up a lot of water. This towel is made of high-quality microfiber and quickly dries after absorbing five times its own weight in water.
This small, light backpack is great for trips, backpacking, and other outdoor activities because it’s easy to pack in your bag. It comes with a handy carry bag with ventilation holes and comes in different sizes and colors.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: Super absorbent (absorbs 5x its weight), quick-drying, compact, lightweight, soft suede-like feel, zippered pocket (for 40”x72” size), and includes a carry bag with ventilation holes.
- Ideal for: Travelers, gym-goers, campers, hikers, and beach enthusiasts who need a lightweight, fast-drying towel.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5 stars from over 26,300 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Quick drying, easy to pack, sand-resistant, skin-friendly, durable, and available in 16 colors and 6 sizes.
7. Swiss Army Knife
The Victorinox Swiss Army Spartan Pocket Knife is a Swiss-made pocket knife that can be used for both everyday tasks and trips outside. With 12 useful features, like a big blade, a small blade, a can opener, a corkscrew, and a bottle opener, it can be used for many different tasks. It is a reliable tool for any situation because it is well-made, has a famous look, and is small.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 12 functions including large and small blades, corkscrew, can opener, bottle opener, wire stripper, screwdriver, tweezers, and toothpick.
- Ideal for: Everyday carry, camping, hiking, DIY tasks, and outdoor adventures.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5 stars from over 2,500 reviews).
- Top Benefits: High-quality Swiss craftsmanship, durable stainless steel tools, compact design (3.6″ length), lightweight (2.1 oz), and lifetime warranty.
8. Osprey Transporter 40L Travel Duffel Bag
This is the Osprey Transporter 40L Travel Duffel Bag. It’s a tough, weatherproof bag made for short trips and storing gear. It can hold 40 liters of stuff and has a backpack harness that can be extended and a sternum strap for comfort.
This durable bag is made from recycled polyester that has been approved by bluesign and has a TPU coating. It has many pockets for organizing your things and making smaller items easy to get to.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 40L capacity, deployable backpack harness with sternum strap, zippered end pocket, internal zippered mesh pocket, weather-resistant TPU coating, and PFC-free DWR coating.
- Ideal for: Travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those needing a versatile, durable duffel for short trips and gear storage.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5 stars from over 550 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Rugged weather resistance, multiple carrying options, organized storage, durable construction, and sustainable materials.
9. First Aid Kit (Surviveware)
The Surviveware Waterproof Premium Survival First Aid Kit has 184 pieces and is designed for outdoor activities, travel, and being ready for anything. This kit is great for camping, hiking, and boating because it is made of waterproof material and has watertight zippers (IPX7 rating).
Labeled compartments make it easy to get to things, a CPR mask that can be taken off, and MOLLE-compatible straps make it portable.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 184 first aid supplies, labeled compartments, removable CPR mask, waterproof (IPX7 rating), MOLLE-compatible straps, and a first aid guide.
- Ideal for: Hikers, campers, travelers, and emergency preparedness for outdoor and severe weather situations.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5 stars from over 1,500 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Comprehensive supplies, waterproof design, organized compartments, portable with MOLLE straps, and FSA/HSA eligible.
10. Digital Luggage Scale
Portable digital hanging scales like the Travel Inspira Luggage Scale are made to keep you from having to pay extra for overweight bags when you travel. This small and light scale’s backlit LCD screen makes it easy to use and read in any light. It can hold up to 110 pounds (50 kg). In addition to having a CR2032 battery and a rubberized handle for easy grip, this is an important item to bring with you on trips.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 110 lbs (50 kg) capacity, backlit LCD display, rubberized handle, auto-off function, low battery and overload indicators, tare function, and CR2032 battery included.
- Ideal for: Travelers who want to avoid overweight baggage fees, hikers, and those who frequently ship packages.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5 stars from over 30,300 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Prevents overweight fees, easy-to-read display, compact and lightweight design, comfortable grip, and 2-year limited warranty.
11. Travel Journal
Your Page-A-Day Artisan Travel Journal is a small, vegan leather-bound diary made for writing down memories from your travels. Featuring 176 acid-free, archival-quality pages, it has room for writing down personal thoughts, the date, the place, and the weather.
This fashionable journal has cloud designs, fancy stitching, an elastic closure, and a ribbon bookmark to keep your thoughts and travel memories safe.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 176 pages, vegan leather cover, cloud motifs, ribbon bookmark, elastic closure, and a back cover pocket for mementos.
- Ideal for: Travelers who want to document their journeys with style and convenience.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5 stars from over 2,100 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Compact size (5” x 7”), durable design, smooth paper for various writing tools, and secure storage for travel keepsakes.
12. Travel Pillow (Cabeau Evolution S3)
With its soft memory foam material, the Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow is the perfect neck pillow for comfort and support while traveling. Protects your head from falling forward with special seat straps that attach securely to car or airplane seats.
The ergonomic design, adjustable straps, and washable cover make it the perfect gift for travelers who want to be comfortable without taking up too much room in their carry-on bags.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: Memory foam, patented seat straps, adjustable clasp, washable cover, and a compact carry bag.
- Ideal for: Travelers, commuters, and anyone needing neck support during flights, road trips, or seated activities.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2/5 stars from over 5,300 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Prevents neck strain, compact design, easy to clean, secure fit to seats, and provides excellent chin and head support.
13. Tile Mate (Luggage Tracker)
The Tile by Life360 Mate (2024) Bluetooth Tracker is a small device that can help you find things like keys, bags, and other important things. It has a range of 350 feet and works with both iOS and Android. The Tile app works with it without any problems. The 4-pack set can withstand water, has batteries that last up to 3 years, and works with Life360 to improve family safety and send SOS alerts.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 350-foot Bluetooth range, water-resistant (IP68), up to 3-year non-replaceable battery, loud ring, phone finder, and SOS alert via Life360.
- Ideal for: Anyone who frequently misplaces items like keys, bags, or wallets and wants a reliable tracking solution.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5 stars from over 1,500 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Easy to use, long battery life, seamless app integration, family safety features, and functional design for everyday use.
14. Rechargeable Headlamp (Black Diamond Spot)
The waterproof Black Diamond Spot 400-R Rechargeable LED Headlamp can be used for camping, hiking, running, and other outdoor activities. It has a maximum output of 400 lumens and different lighting modes, such as strobe, dimming, and red night vision. It has a 1500mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery that powers it and makes sure it works well and lasts in all kinds of weather.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 400 lumens, red night-vision mode, rechargeable 1500mAh Li-ion battery, waterproof (IPX8), Brightness Memory, and PowerTap Technology for instant brightness adjustment.
- Ideal for: Campers, hikers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts needing reliable lighting for nighttime activities.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5 stars from over 290 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Multiple light modes, rechargeable battery, waterproof design, compact and ergonomic, and adjustable brightness settings.
15. Portable Bluetooth Speaker (JBL Clip 4)
The JBL Clip 4 is a very small, portable Bluetooth speaker made to be used while you’re on the go. With 5 watts of output power, it provides high-quality sound in a tough, dust- and watertight case. It’s great for travel, hiking, and other outdoor activities because it comes with a built-in carabiner clip that makes it easy to attach to bags or belts.
Why it’s a Great Choice
- Features: 5W output power, Bluetooth connectivity, waterproof and dustproof design, integrated carabiner, and rechargeable battery.
- Ideal for: Travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing portable, high-quality sound.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5 stars from over 350 reviews).
- Top Benefits: Compact and lightweight, easy Bluetooth pairing, rugged build, clip-on convenience, and clear audio performance.
Choosing the Best Gift for Backpackers Through Asia
Essential Travel Gifts for Practicality and Convenience
When looking for the best gift for backpackers traveling through Asia, choose things that are useful and easy to carry:
- Power Bank – Ensures devices stay charged during long journeys. Look for options with decent battery life that won’t take up too much space in carry on luggage.
- Universal Travel Adapter – Supports various plug types for seamless travel across Southeast Asia. This is a perfect gift for international adventures.
- Swiss Army Knife – A versatile tool useful for camping, meals, and minor repairs. It’s compact, lightweight, and makes an awesome gift for backpackers.
Security and Comfort Gifts for Peace of Mind
Consider giving one of these thoughtful gift ideas to help make travel more secure and comfortable:
- Money Belt – Keeps cash, cards, and important documents secure and hidden. A meaningful gift for any family member traveling through busy cities and markets.
- Detachable Day Bag – Ideal for day trips and excursions. Provides flexibility without the need to carry a full-sized backpack.
- Lightweight Travel Bag – Offers organized storage while ensuring comfort and convenience. Perfect for keeping essentials handy.
Final Thoughts
If you want to give a friend or family member a travel gift, choose something that will be useful and show that you care. You could get a universal travel adapter, a day bag that you can take off, or a power bank to make the battery last longer. For example, a Swiss Army knife, a money belt, or carry-on luggage would be great gifts for people in Southeast Asia who travel or work from home.
Giving reusable bottles is a thoughtful gift that makes a difference and reduces the use of plastic bottles. Choose wisely, and your gift will help them on their way!
FAQs
What to give someone travelling to Thailand?
A universal travel adapter, power bank, or a detachable day bag are great gifts for someone traveling to Thailand.
What to put in a backpack as a gift?
Include camera gear, a Swiss Army knife, a money belt, and travel gifts like a travel guitar or a power bank.
What size backpack for 2 weeks in Asia?
A 40-50L travel bag or carry-on luggage is perfect to avoid taking up too much space.
What to get a friend going to Japan?
Consider thoughtful gifts like a power bank, camera gear, or a unique travel gift idea such as a detachable day bag.
What is a meaningful gift for a digital nomad?
A universal travel adapter, travel bag, or power bank are meaningful and awesome gifts that are essential for any digital nomad.