12 Travel Gift Ideas for Him (Husband-Approved)
Shopping for your husband can be tricky, right? You want something he’ll actually use, not just stash in a drawer, and ideally something that makes him think, “Wow, she nailed it.” For travel-loving guys, the best gifts often strike a balance between practical and thoughtful, making their adventures easier, more comfortable, or a little more fun. Whether he’s the type to pack light, gear up, or just grab what works, I’ve rounded up a handful of husband-approved travel gift ideas that check all the boxes. These gifts are practical, versatile, and road-tested in real life, so they’re basically guaranteed winners. (Seriously, I asked Jon and gave him final veto rights!)
Table of Contents Hide
Affiliate Disclosure: When you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission. This comes at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you get the inside scoop on our favorite items and support Road Trip Locals at the same time. And we can’t thank you enough for that!
1. KÜHL Kruiser Shorts
Kuhl’s collection of men’s shorts is perfect for pretty much any kind of day! With a nylon-stretch blend that’s breathable, quick-drying, and cooling to the touch, the KRUISER™ Short in particular is one of Jon’s top warm-weather staples.
The shorts pack in performance details like UPF 50+ sun protection, a pull-on elastic mesh waistband for comfort, and a zippered back pocket for essentials. Lightweight, versatile, and incredibly comfortable, these shorts can take you from the trail to town without missing a beat.
Why we love them: Jon has the KRUISER™ Short in Sienna (waist M, inseam 8") and they’ve been on constant repeat. The sienna color was a fun switch-up from his usual navy or forest green, and I love how sharp they looked on him—different, but still versatile. He’s worn them everywhere: a walk on the Katy Trail in Dallas? Yes. A night at Cidercade for arcade games? Absolutely. Running Sunday errands? You bet. They’re comfortable, practical, and look great.
Shop Here:
KÜHL Kruiser Short: Ultra-light, all-purpose performance shorts built for comfort, style, and everyday adventure.
Bonus: KÜHL Suppressor Jogger
With a tailored jogger fit, these pants also pair durability for the trail with a sleek look that’s great for sightseeing around town.
Why we love them: When Jonathan first tried on these joggers to see how they fit, I noticed he still had them on—tag and all—over 4 hours later. They’re that comfortable. The fit is great, and the pants are versatile enough for a range of activities, making them a fantastic gift for travelers short on packing space.
Shop Here:
KÜHL Suppressor Jogger: Jonathan has these in Pirate Blue, size medium, with a regular inseam.
2. QALO Silicone Rings
If your husband is the guy who fidgets with his ring until you’re certain it’s going to end up down a floor vent, or maybe he just can’t sit still—jumping from the gym to the trail to the paddle board—then silicone rings are the perfect alternative. They’re lightweight, flexible, inexpensive, and way more comfortable than metal when he’s active. And the best part? They give you peace of mind without sacrificing style.
Why we love them: After nearly losing my engagement ring during a hike in the Canadian Rockies 🙃, we only wear silicone rings when we’re traveling. They’re perfect for workouts, hiking, rafting, Via Ferratas, or really any trip where you don’t want to risk something valuable. They’re also a game-changer in hot or cold climates (when your fingers swell or shrink). Practical, comfortable, and husband-approved.
Shop Here:
3. Adventure Gear (Paddle Boards, Snow Shoes, etc.)
Adventure gear makes a great gift for travelers because it’s practical, exciting, and opens the door to new experiences.
If your guy loves being on the water, an inflatable paddleboard is a fantastic option. They’re durable, easy to pack, and built for all skill levels, with most supporting up to 350 lbs. Perfect for adventurers who want reliable, take-anywhere fun.
If land-based adventures are more his thing, snowshoes, cross-country skis, climbing gear, or even a new bike accessory can be just as perfect. We head to Yellowstone every winter for snowshoeing, photography, and wolf watching, and REI is our go-to for well-tested adventure gear.
Heads up: Inflatable paddle boards can be pricey, but the good news is they often show up on deep discounts during Prime Days or Black Friday/Cyber Monday. When they do, they usually sell fast in limited lightning deals, so keep an eye out if this is on your gift list.
Shop Here:
ROC Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards: The extra-wide design is perfect for all skill levels.
Retrospec Drifter 21/25/30 Inch Snowshoes: These are our Yellowstone snowshoes, which come with trekking poles and multi-terrain attachments for winter trails.
4. Ridge Merino Wool T-shirts
This is one of those gifts that quietly becomes a favorite. Ridge Merino tees combine odor-resistant, sweat-wicking Merino wool with a soft, durable feel that works for travel, workouts, and everyday wear. They’re modern, fitted, and look sharp without trying.
Why we love them: This is hands down my favorite shirt on Jonathan, and he swears it’s his most comfortable one, too. (The rum raisin color? Chef’s kiss 😘👌)
Shop Here:
Ridge Merino Men’s Journey T-Shirt: Slim fit with a modern crew neck.
Bonus: Ridge Merino Wool Hoodie
This hoodie is amazing. No notes. It’s lightweight enough for hot days but warm enough for cool mornings… plus merino wool means it can be worn longer between washes (huge win for travel).
Why we love it: Jon wears this on hikes, long drives, and even around town. It’s that perfect “throw-on” piece that always ends up packed. (The women’s hoodie is one of my most beloved pieces, too!)
Shop Here:
Ridge Merino Lightweight Wool Hoodie: A natural UPF of 30+ makes this the perfect layer for adventures in the sun.
5. Hybrid Dress Shoes
Hybrid dress shoes are a genius gift for guys who need something that works everywhere—whether they’re heading into a meeting, exploring a new city, or just want shoes they can actually walk in all day. They blend classic dress-shoe style with running-shoe comfort, which means no more lugging around an extra pair or suffering through blisters just to look polished.
Why we love them: Jon has tried a few brands, but his favorite pair is his Cole Haan 2.ZERØGRAND Laser Wingtip Oxfords. These shoes are seriously innovative, with an energy foam sole that feels like a running shoe and cushioning that keeps him comfortable all day. He wears them everywhere—from travel days to client calls to nights out—and they check every single box for style, comfort, and versatility.
Shop Here:
Cole Haan 2.ZERØGRAND Laser Wingtip Oxford: Jon’s pick for an option that combines dress-shoe polish with running-shoe comfort.
Wolf & Shepherd Crossover™: Another lightweight hybrid dress shoe built for all-day wear.
Amberjack “The Original”: Designed with hiking boot soles for extra stability and traction.
6. Justin Classic RayBan Sunglasses
Sometimes the best gift is the timeless one. Ray-Ban’s Justin sunglasses take the iconic Wayfarer look and update it with larger rectangular lenses, a rubberized finish, and a range of colors that go from classic black to bold statement shades. They’re durable, versatile, and stylish, making them another gift option that’s perfect for everything from road trips to city walks.
Why we love them: Jon has the Matte Rubber Black frames with Light Grey lenses, and they’ve become his everyday pair. He wears them driving through Yellowstone, wandering around new cities, or just running errands, and they’ve held up beautifully. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and sharp-looking—basically, the one pair he never forgets to pack.
Shop Here:
7. Gossamer Gear Mariposa Backpack
This ultralight backpack is built for long-term adventures, but it works just as well for road trips and flights. It fits a ton, is super comfortable to wear, and makes carrying gear over long stretches so much easier.
Why we love it: We took these packs to Alaska for a three-week road trip, and they were a game-changer! Jon loved how light it felt even when stuffed full, and I loved how easy it was to stay mobile across cars, planes, and trails. This bag has become Jon’s go-to for any trail, short or long.
Heads Up: This backpack is an investment, so watch for sales around Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which are great times to take advantage of discounts.
Shop Here:
Gossamer Gear 60 Mariposa Backpack: Jon has the Gray Backpack in Pack Size Medium.
8. Gore-Tex Terrex Hiking Boots (Adidas)
These boots bring waterproof protection, comfort, and solid traction together in a lightweight package. Perfect for hikers who want gear that doesn’t slow them down.
Why we love them: Jon stumbled on these at REI after blowing out his old boots in Alaska. They fit so well, he’s basically lived in them for every hike since. If your guy is in the market for a new boot, these are a super solid pick!
Shop Here:
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Hiking Shoes: Lightweight, waterproof comfort for every hike.
9. Spotting Scope or Binoculars
A spotting scope or binoculars make fantastic gifts for wildlife watchers and photographers, offering a closer view of animals in their natural habitats without disturbing them. Whether headed on a safari, wolf-watching in Yellowstone (Jon’s favorite!), or even birdwatching close to home, spotting scopes and/or binoculars are great gifts for anyone who enjoys seeing wildlife.
Why we love them: Wolf-watching in Yellowstone National Park is one of Jonathan’s favorite hobbies. Wolves are especially elusive animals, often staying a quarter mile off the road or more. Binoculars and spotting scopes take wolf-watching to a completely new level, as you can see pups playing and packs hunting from a respectful and safe distance away.
Shop Here:
Celestron Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope: Praised for its clear image quality and durable, waterproof design.
Nikon PROSTAFF Binocular: Sharp optics and lightweight build.
10. Travel Backpack Cooler
Perfect for road trips, camping, or beach days, these coolers keep food and drinks cold while leaving your hands free. Rugged, practical, and easy to carry.
Why we love it: Whether road tripping or just hanging out in the park (or at the beach), this is one of those things that always gets used.
Shop Here:
YETI Hopper BackFlip 24 Soft-Sided Cooler Backpack: Known for its rugged durability, leakproof design, and excellent insulation.
IceMule Pro Backpack Cooler: Praised for its lightweight, waterproof construction and reliable cooling performance for up to 24 hours.
TOURIT Cooler Backpack: A budget-friendly cooler well-rated for its insulation and spacious, leakproof design with room for 30 cans.
11. 32 Degrees Ultra-Light Packable Jacket
This jacket is warm without being bulky and packs into its own bag, perfect for layering on trips. Affordable, practical, and versatile.
Why we love it: Jon reaches for this jacket constantly. It looks good, works for almost anything, and doesn’t take up space in a bag. A win-win-win!
Shop Here:
32 Degrees Ultra Light Down Packable Jacket: Regular fit, great for layering, traveling, and cold weather.
12. Gorilla Bow Travel
This resistance-training set is like a packable gym you can take anywhere. Great for travelers who want to keep up workouts without relying on hotel gyms.
Why we love it: When we lived out of short-term rentals for months during travel seasons, this kept us consistent with exercise. It’s portable, simple, and genuinely effective.
Shop Here:
Gorilla Bow Travel: Packable mobile gym for resistance-based workouts on the road.
Happy Gifting!
We hope you enjoy these gift ideas for the travelers in your life! To save this gift guide on Pinterest for later, hover over any image in this post and click on the red “Save” button that pops up in the upper left-hand corner of the image. (If you’re on mobile, you might have to tap the image first to see the red ‘Save’ button.)
Related Posts
Collecting souvenirs is a wonderful way to capture memories and experiences from your travels. Here are 9 cool and unique travel souvenir ideas for your next road trip, bucket list adventure, or family vacation!