November 18, 2010 Gifts for light travelers
Gift-giving time is rapidly approaching and some who visit OBOW may be looking for can’t-miss gift ideas for that strange, light traveling person in their life. OBOW readers, please share your travel item wish lists - or even those of your light traveling spouse - so that others may benefit.
I have two simple suggestions. The metal-free belt from Bison Designs is just terrific. It can be left on through the metal detector and can be discreetly loosened on those long plane rides. I wear mine about four days a week and couldn’t live without it. Another easy idea is the shoulder strap upgrade. You can find the comfort king, the Tom Bihn Absolute Strap, here along with lots of other geeky, high-quality travel accessories. A cheaper, similar version by the company that makes the Absolute is available here.
Don’t forget wool - the smart and dumb kinds. Premium lightweight wool undies are something many would like to try and winter is a great time to start. This type of personal item is probably best handled with a gift certificate.
Share your bright ideas…
(Brad)
Reader Comments (6)
http://www.tilley.com/default.aspx
Just about anything from Muji travel section (great items made for ultralight travel)
http://www.muji.co.uk/
Buffs, (original, merino wool, polar)
http://www.buyabuff.com/
Clikcard Travel Locks
http://www.magellans.com/store/Safety___Security___Luggage_Locks___TagsSL220?Args=
Gift suggestion: Mini Maglite, double A, or triple A. You can buy them with LED bulbs now.
Manufacturers: Smartwool, Icebreaker, Ibex, Patagonia, Arc'teryx
Where to buy: REI, EMS, Moosejaw, Backcountry.com, Altrec.com, etc.
Icebreaker also makes briefs and boxers. Wool isn't for everyone, as people have different tolerances to wool "itch", even the ultrafine merino fibers. So as a gift, someone can try them without being out their own cash.
SmartWool or Icebreaker basic t-shirts, lightest weight
SmartWool: https://www.smartwool.com
Icebreaker: http://www.icebreaker.com
I ended up breaking down and buying one of my wish list items about two months ago: a pair of Clark's Un.beam shoes. Pricey, but quite comfortable and don't smell after a long, active day. They rubbed a little on an impromptu 1.5 mile walk, but I think they would have been just fine if I'd been wearing socks. These are definitely my new favorite pair of shoes, and the burgundy, bronze, and graphite ones are on sale right now.
http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/61879?feat=918-GN1
Now, if I could figure out how the heck to get the batteries inside it I'll be all set. ;-\