Gift ideas to make traveling easier
The goal: Take the hassle out of travel. The gift: anything that does that.
Here are some items that can smooth the way, whether it’s across the state or around the world.
Our 2016 holiday gift guide is here, over 200 gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list »
Separate your tech and clothing in one bag
The Ecbc Sparrow II Wheeled Garment Bag is a two-wheeler that neatly organizes clothes and electronics.
It has an electronics compartment that unzips and lies flat on the X-ray belt so a laptop can remain inside if you have the Transportation Security Administration’s PreCheck fast-through-security clearance.
The pocket can hold up to a 16-inch laptop and a 12-inch tablet, and the bag comes with a 6000 mAh power bank.
Info: Sparrow II Wheeled Garment bag costs about $400
Yes, it’s a phone. But it does other tricks
The Sony Xperia XZ 4G LTE is an unlocked Android smartphone with a 32GB memory card and a Sony camera that shoots 23-megapixel stills and 4K video even in low light. Its front camera can shoot 13MP selfies.
The camera is so hot that your shutterbug may forget it can also make calls, send texts and surf.
Info: Sony Xperia XZ 4G LTE costs about $700.
The newest chargers
Zus Smart Car Charger rapidly rejuices smartphones and tablets. Its built-in cooling system helps Zus generate less heat while charging. Its free iOS or Android app can help find your car, set parking reminders and monitor a car’s battery health.
Info: ZUS Smart Car Charger costs about $30;
Twist Plus World Charging Station has four fast-charging USB ports plus an adapter that can power an Apple MacBook.
Twist to select the local plug configuration for the country you’re visiting — it works in more than 150 countries — and start charging. It’s ideal for travelers who carry multiple devices.
Info: Twist Plus costs about $45
Ready to travel clothing
ScotteVest Chloe Hoodie is a durable, machine washable hooded microfleece jacket with 14 pockets.
A thumbhole in the extra-long plush-lined cuffs helps warm hands when the cuffs are rolled down.
Sizes from XS to XXL. Available in black, brown and purple.
Info: ScotteVest Chloe Hoodie costs about $100
Voormi Access Vest is a durable lightweight, water repellent vest with Voormi’s trademarked Surface Hardened Thermal Wool. Mesh side panels wick away sweat. Ideal for active adventurers whether walking, hiking, biking or skiing. Available for men and women in five sizes and two colors.
Info: Voormi Access Vest for women or for men costs $129.
CEP Progressive+ Ski Merino Compression socks feel tighter around the ankle and less constricted near the knee. They are designed to keep you cozy after skiing and winter activities and to help prevent swelling and deep-vein thrombosis on long flights.
Info: CEP Progressive+ Ski Merino Compression socks for women or men cost $60.
A killer gift
SteriPen Pure+ is a 2.6-ounce water purifier that the company says uses its small UV light to kill 99.9% of bacteria, viruses and protozoa in less than a minute.
Great for cleaning water from a stream or waterfall or from the tap in places where water may not be potable.
Info: SteriPen Pure+ costs $70
This will keep you hanging
Kammok Wallaby Hammock plus Python Straps is made of ultra-light, silky ripstop fabric. It weighs 10 ounces but can hold up to 400 pounds so travelers can relax almost anywhere.
A pair of mini Kanga Claws and Python Straps make hammock hanging a snap.
Info: Kammok Wallaby hammock costs $94
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