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It’s the season of gift-giving, but finding the right gift for that special person in your life isn’t always easy. To help, we turned to National Geographic staffers who travel the world for inspiration. They shared the gifts they gave or received that became their favorites of the year. From sweat-proof earphones and the essential manny pack to comfy boots and portable power banks, this list includes some great ideas.
Photo courtesy of Amazon
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“I love to travel, but I always get anxious when I fly. One of the triggers is the noise of loud jets. Last year, my mom gifted me these headphones and they helped me. I’ve never looked back. They’re very comfortable for over-ear headphones. I have several earrings and they never tug when I wear them.
It also has a noise canceling function, making it perfect for when an airplane takes off. Just by putting it on, you can enter your own little world and listen to your favorite songs. It’s great to have comfortable technology that not only helps you travel, but is also stylish. ” —Chrissy Garcia, Partnership Development and Solutions Manager
(Enjoy the quiet sound with noise canceling headphones)
Find it now at Wave Arcade
“As a Southern California girl at heart, I appreciate how these posters are the perfect blend of nostalgia and beauty. I love the combination of retro national park beauty and beautiful ocean and beach elements. I love it. It’s perfect for anyone who’s always dreaming of the ocean or wants to add a little tropical flair to their home.” —Erin Fox, Social Media Coordinator
Find it now at REI
“As I was preparing for my first real winter after moving from Florida to Washington, D.C., I needed quality boots that I could wear around town and on the trails.My sister has been wearing Blundstone for years. I recommended Blundstone after using and loving it. It’s super comfortable, durable, and does everything I need. Blundstone comes in so many colors and styles and is truly built to last. Plus, it keeps your feet warm during the winter.” —Mackenzie Duffy, Associate Manager, Social Media.
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“When I need a hot meal on the go, this electric lunch box is a savior. Whether I’m at the office or on a 13-hour road trip to Georgia, it heats up my food quickly (in about 20 minutes!) , which saves more than enough for lunch.” — Starlight Williams, Digital Editor.
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“These may not be the flashiest of things, but they’ve changed my long-haul flights and runs. They keep my feet fresh and they’re super cute, adding a fun vibe to my travel outfits.” — Starlight Williams, Digital Editor.
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“They make great gifts for people who are always on the go or who tend to lose their belongings. I’ve purchased multiple AirTags over the years for different purposes (keys, AirPods, even passports). However, it is very easy to set up and track.” —Delaney Gordon, Partner Development and Solutions Manager.
Photo provided by: Disney Store
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“One of my favorite traditions as a child was preparing Lego advent calendars. My siblings and I would make them first thing in the morning before breakfast and play with the little sets all year long. —Erin Fox, Social Media Coordinator.
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“This is an all-weather boot that’s perfect for winter days, especially when it’s snowy or rainy. Whether you’re heading out for a fall mountain hike or trekking to work after a winter snowfall, this versatile shoe combines style and practicality.” And the insulated lining adds extra comfort, making it a must-have for cold weather.” —Victoria Lawrence, Partner Development and Solutions Specialist.
Photo courtesy of Macy’s
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“You can reduce the stress of standing at the check-in desk and wondering if you have too much luggage or if you have to pay extra for checked baggage. This portable digital scale is perfect for long stays before and after your trip A perfect gift for anyone, especially if you’re returning home with added travel memorabilia.” —Kwin Mosby, Senior Digital Editor for Travel.
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“Whether you’re taking a walk or run with a sexy girl or taking a long flight, these snug earbuds provide comfort, noise canceling, and are forever charged, even on your sweatiest adventures. ” — Starlight Williams, Digital Editor.
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“For my peepers who also need a power bank and a flashlight, this 4-in-1 handheld fan is the best. It’s more than just a fan, it’s a power bank, flashlight, and mini desk lamp all in one. We are going to the tropics, so we are giving this away as a wedding favor.The foldable design makes it very easy to carry, and the strong air flow makes it perfect for travel and home use. ” — Starlight Williams, Digital Editor.
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“Lego flowers and plants blend nostalgia with a modern, sophisticated twist, making them the perfect holiday gift for anyone over the age of 18, especially Gen Z and Millennials. The no-fuss sets offer creative relaxation while adding stylish décor to any space. With thoughtful charm, a focus on sustainability, and an Instagram-worthy aesthetic, they appeal to a younger generation. A unique, gender-neutral gift that resonates with people.” —Amanda Petty, Affiliate Marketing Specialist.
Photo courtesy of Amazon
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“I love reading, but I’m always on the go, so I finally decided to dedicate my life to an e-reader. Since it has similar features to a regular Kindle, I prefer the children’s version of the Kindle. I have a very cute Ocean Explorer case (and I’ve gotten a lot of compliments about it).
For parents, it comes with a 1-year subscription to Amazon Kids+ and a 2-year warranty. It’s also super easy to check out books through the Libby Library app and have them sent to your Kindle. Charge with USB-C. It’s convenient because you can charge most gadgets with the same cord. It’s small enough to fit into a crossbody bag or belt bag. I also take my Kindle to concerts and read before the show starts. —Leanna Lakeram, International Magazine (Kids Media) Account Manager
Photo courtesy of Loop Earplugs
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“This is my third pair of earbuds. I keep them close at hand in my travel bag, backpack, and bedside table. They don’t need to be charged and they block out sound well. It comes in a cute and sturdy container so you can clip it to your pocket or keychain, so you can give it to your friends who are traveling with you so they can enjoy the peace and quiet. —Ariel Deiaco-Lohr, Director of Licensing and Partnerships.
Photo courtesy of Anker
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“Whether I’m on a business trip or for leisure, I always remember to carry a power bank with me. It’s especially useful on long journeys when I don’t have access to an electrical outlet. This gadget is a godsend.
Keep your phone or other gadget turned on and capture every jaw-dropping and unforgettable moment. The perfect gift for people who travel. And yes, Anker also has a wireless charger. —Kwin Mosby, Senior Digital Editor, Travel
(A portable charger perfect for travel and adventure)
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Find it now at Patagonia
“Patagonia’s Mini Hip Pack is small but mighty. The material is ultralight, 100% recycled, and folds down to the size of an eyeglass case. It holds keys, cell phones, credit cards, sunglasses, and more. It has the perfect capacity for everyday essentials. I usually wear it over one shoulder and it’s comfortable thanks to the padded back panel.
Whether I’m heading to the office or hitting the trails, I never leave the house without a hip pack, or as I like to call it, a manny pack. ” – Jeremy Brandt-Volel, Digital Marketing Manager
(This fanny pack is perfect for traveling)
Find it now at Stubble & Co.
“I love this backpack because it’s so comfortable, completely waterproof, has lots of pockets, and has high-quality stitching and clasps. It has a real class feel and can be used as a work bag as well. , I think it’s a great backpack for weekend getaways.” —Lorna Parkes, National Geographic Traveler UK Editor-in-Chief.
Find it now on Voited
“This is the most comfortable blanket you can own, with faux fleece on one side and recycled ripstop on the other. Perfect for adventures, can be transformed into a pillow, sleeping bag, hands-free cape, and comes in a variety of designs. I use it for everything, at home and on camping trips.” —Georgia Stevens, National Geographic Traveler UK Features Editor.
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“With this GPS-enabled smartwatch, you don’t have to stop while hiking, biking, or running to check your map, all on your wrist. You can plan your route in advance and access it offline. Whether you want to know the temperature, altitude, sunset time or whether a storm is coming, there are plenty of extra features to help you stay on track.It has up to 13 days of battery life and is water resistant to 50 meters. It’s the ultimate adventure accessory.” —Georgia Stevens, National Geographic Traveler UK Features Editor.
(These are the best fitness trackers to achieve your health goals)
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“I gave these to my wife last Christmas and they are one of the pieces of technology she uses the most, especially when her AirPods keep falling out of her ears, like listening to podcasts and audiobooks via WhatsApp. , a great way to talk to your relatives. These have revolutionized the way she video-records her painting classes and continue to improve over time. This week, the ability to set reminders and record audio messages. added: I hope she buys me shoes this Christmas.” —Marcelo Galdieri, Digital and Consumer Touchpoint Leader
*While we are sharing our personal opinions about these experiences and products, National Geographic does not endorse these experiences or products on anyone’s behalf. We have not conducted product safety testing on, manufactured, sold or distributed any of these products, and we do not guarantee the safety or quality of these products or their intended use for individual consumers. We are not making any representations about our experience. Prices and availability are subject to change from date of publication.
