30 Super Useful Gifts For Digital Nomads This Christmas

More people than ever are working remotely nowadays, so get them something they'll actually use with these digital nomad gifts.

There's no doubt about it, the internet has changed the way we work and do business.

And this has spawned a growing tribe of location independent freelancers working remotely via their laptops as digital nomads.

So gone are the days of having to commute into the same office each day, as anywhere with a good WiFi connection can become your office for the day.

And this is a great thing.

As it has freed up so many people to be able to explore the world, have adventures, and live the dream while still earning a living or building a business.

But while this new age has given people freedom to move around, live, and work where they choose, it has also made them really hard to buy gifts for.

Because as space in their luggage is always at a premium, every possession they carry around with them needs to earn it's place in their backpacks and suitcases.

Which means if you're going to get them a gift, then you need to follow the two golden rules.

Get them something that won't take up too much space, and make sure it's something they'll use regularly.

So to help you choose a gift that they'll definitely use and want to make room for, I've come up with the following list of gift ideas for digital nomads.

As these are all super useful, and won't weigh them down as they make their way around the world.

1. A New Pair Of Cool Looking Sunglasses

Let's be honest, if you can choose to work from anywhere in the world, most people are going to pick somewhere sunny, right?

So our first gift idea for a digital nomad is to get them a new pair of sunglasses.

As not only will these protect their eyes from the damaging UV rays that they will be exposed to in tropical climates.

They also look pretty darn cool too.

And for digital nomads who work outside, wearing a good pair of polarized sunglasses can reduce the glare on their laptop screen, allowing them to see what they're doing.

So treat them to a pair of sunnies if you want to give them something that will definitely get it's share of use.

And while there is a wealth of choice and different styles out there, one pair I like are the Ray-Ban Chromance mirrored sunglasses above.

2. A Carry On Backpack For Traveling Light

True digital nomads will be travelling from country to country or city to city on a regular basis, and this means taking lots of flights.

And while many become masters at finding great flight deals to keep their travel expenses down, one thing that can really add up is having to pay extra baggage costs.

So a great gift idea for them is to get them a backpack that is spacious enough to store all their stuff, yet still small enough to be able to take on to planes as carry on luggage.

And one that fits the bill nicely is the Osprey Porter 46 travel backpack.

As this has separate compartments and pockets to keep all their things safe and organised, opens up at the front to make packing easy, and is comfortable to wear with the padded straps and handles. 

And you can also get this backpack in a smaller size (30L) if they fly in regions where the carry on restrictions are more strict.

3. A Set Of Packing Cubes To Keep Them Organized

Squeezing everything into their backpacks and luggage when they are ready to move on to the next place can be a real challenge for a digital nomad, with space being at a premium.

So one trick many use to be able to fit as much as possible in is to use packing cubes.

As these do a great job of compressing their stuff down, while also being a good way to keep everything organised too.

Which means they can be a really useful gift to get for a digital nomad, with the AmazonBasics 4-piece packing cubes set being a good example.

4. A Bag To Organise Their Cables And Chargers

It can also be a pain for a digital nomad to pack up all their electronic gear in an organised and safe way.

As cables, wires, and chargers have a real talent for getting tangled, damaged, or going missing, when inside their backpack.

So another useful gift idea to help them avoid this frustration is to get them a cable organiser bag, such as the one above by Bagsmart.

As this way they can store all their cables in the one place, with each having it's own pocket or compartment.

So they'll never lose a cable again, and will be able to find what they need quickly, and without having to contribute to the swear jar!

5. Hanging Luggage Scales So They Don't Get Overcharged At The Airport

Airline weight restrictions can catch you out when travelling as a digital nomad, as each airline seems to have different rules on weights and sizes of luggage that you're allowed to carry on or stow.

And if you don't read the small print and turn up at the airport with overweight luggage, it can be a very expensive mistake to rectify.

So a small stocking filler gift idea that could potential save a digital nomad a lot of money in extra luggage costs, is to get them some hanging luggage scales.

This way they'll always know how much their luggage weighs before departing for the airport, meaning there'll be no unpleasant surprises at check in.

And for one that is accurate and does the job well, check out the Tarriss Jetsetter digital luggage scales.

6. A High Quality Leather Passport Holder/Wallet

One of the most vital possessions, if not the most vital, is their passport.

As this is their ticket to travel across borders, and it's also a legal requirement in many countries to produce it on request, as it usually houses their visa to be able to stay there.

Which means losing it or damaging it can be an absolute nightmare for them, and really disrupt their plans.

So a gift that a digital nomad would really appreciate is a leather wallet that can house their passport and keep it safe as they travel.

And a really nice wallet that is made from a really classy leather that is great to look at and touch, is the Bellroy travel folio.

As not only does it house their passport, but it also has space for their boarding passes, cards, money, and other essentials too.

Plus with an RFID blocking quality built in, it means hackers and phishers can't steal their credit card or passport details either.

7. A Priority Pass Airport Lounge Membership

Travelling the world constantly is definitely fun and exciting, but if there's one thing that can kill the buzz it's waiting around in airports for hours on end.

Especially when you're at a crowded and noisy airport with limited food and entertainment options.

So a really special gift you can get for a digital nomad that is always on the move, is to get them a Priority Pass airport lounge membership.

As this will grant them access to over 1,200 airport lounges across the globe, where they can escape the hustle and bustle of the crowds, and relax before their flights.

These lounges are great, as they have super comfy chairs, complimentary food and drinks, fast WiFi if they want to get some work done, and plenty of space.

So this is a gift that will take the stress out of their journey, and help them to arrive fresh and ready to go, rather than tired, frustrated, and angry.

8. A Travel Pillow For More Comfortable Journeys

Travelling can also take it's toll on a digital nomad's body, as they can be cramped into uncomfortable plane, train, and coach seats for hours at a time.

Leaving them feeling stiff and sore afterwards, especially in areas such as the neck, shoulders, and lower back.

So a gift that they'll really appreciate having with them on their journeys is a travel pillow, such as the Huzi Infinity pillow.

As this can be used as a head pillow to give their neck more support as they nap, or as a lumbar pillow to provide cushioning and help them to sit in a healthier posture.  

9. A Blackout Sleep Mask For Total Darkness

Getting a good night's sleep on a regular basis is vital for keeping our minds sharp and our bodies healthy.

However, when you are traveling around as a digital nomad, sleep can sometimes prove elusive.

Because you can never guarantee you'll have a quiet and dark sleep environment to lay your head each night.

As the street outside the AirBnb apartment or hotel that you've booked for the month may be a lot brighter and more lively at night than you expected.

So a good blackout sleep mask is an essential part of a digital nomad's tool kit, and one such as the Manta sleep mask Pro can make for a great gift.

As this one is comfortable to wear, with it's deep, contoured eye sockets, and does a great job of blocking out any light.

Giving them the pitch-black darkness they need to get into a deep and restorative sleep.

And this is a gift that will also come in handy when they're taking naps on plane and train journeys too.

10. A Pair Of Noise Cancelling Headphones

One good thing about working in a traditional office environment is that it's set up for working, which means noise and distractions are kept to a minimum, allowing you to get on with what you need to do.

However the working life of a digital nomad is often a lot different to this.

Because when working from coffee shops and other public spaces, you are surrounded by a cacophony of noise, movement, and action, which can make it really hard to concentrate and focus on your work.

So in my opinion a vital piece of kit for every digital nomad are a pair of noise cancelling headphones.

As these can be used to drown out the distracting noises around you, making it much easier to focus on your work.

So a pair like the Bose QC35 noise cancelling headphones would be a great gift for a digital nomad.

And they can also use these for their real purpose too, when listening to music or watching movies.

11. A Safe Day Pack For All Their Valuable Stuff

Every digital nomad will need a safe and secure backpack to carry their laptop and work stuff from their apartment to the coffee shop or co-working space they use everyday.

And one that you could give them as a gift is the Pacsafe Venturesafe anti-theft backpack.

Because despite being a great day backpack in it's own right, with a spacious 25L capacity and a padded laptop sleeve inside, it's the security features which sets it apart.

As there is a stainless steel wire mesh woven into the fabric which makes it slash proof, while the zippers lock at the top, meaning they stay out of reach from any potential pickpockets.

And there is even an RFID blocking pocket to protect your passport and bank cards from being illegally scanned.

So if you want to help a digital nomad keep their expensive equipment safe on the move, one of these backpacks will do the trick nicely.

12. A Laptop Stand For A Healthier Neck And Shoulders

The vast majority of digital nomads work from a laptop, however this can open them up to certain health issues if they're not careful.

As when using a laptop, it's impossible to keep the screen at eye level, which means you constantly have to look down at the screen.

And this throws your neck and spine out of alignment, putting a strain on your neck and shoulders, and before you know it, you can end up up with aches and pains after a days work.

So it's really helpful for digital nomads, and anyone who works from a laptop, to use a laptop stand.

As it raises the screen to eye level, meaning they can look straight ahead at it rather than down, maintain a healthy sitting posture, and avoid putting pressure on their body.

So getting a digital nomad the Roost laptop stand is a gift that can help them stay healthier over time.

13. A Mobile Hotspot For Good Internet Anywhere

If there's one thing a digital nomad needs above everything else, it's a solid and reliable, high-speed WiFi connection.

As they need to be able to work quickly and efficiently while staying connected at all times.

However, while this is easy to achieve in your own home, it can be much harder when you are relying on coffee shop WiFi.

So getting a digital nomad the gift of a mobile hotspot would prove really useful for them.

As by simply inserting a local sim card into the mobile hotspot, they will have an internet connection they can rely on wherever they are.

And for one that ticks all the boxes, check out the Verizon Jetpack 8800L

14. WiFi Range Extender For Faster Speeds

Digital nomads that prefer to work from home can also run into WiFi issues, especially if their modem is in another room.

As this can cause it to run slowly, cut out frequently, and just be a royal pain in the backside.

So a gift idea that can help them to solve this issue is to get them a WiFi range extender.

Because plugging one of these into a socket in their room will send a stronger WiFi signal to the surrounding areas, extending the range of their router, increasing speeds, and reducing interference.

So a WiFi extender, such as the one above from NETGEAR, makes for a great gift for any digital nomad that complains about the quality of the WiFi at home.

15. A Travel Plug Adapter For International Nomads

Having a good travel plug adapter is a must for digital nomads who travel through different countries and continents.

So they make for a handy little gift, and one that has everything they'll need is the Saunorch universal power adapter.

As this has four different wall plug options covering all the major destinations, and can be used in over 150 countries around the world.

And it has 4 USB ports, so they can charge their many different devices simultaneously, while it automatically adjusts it's current depending on which device they are using or charging.

So it's safer and more energy efficient to use than certain other travel adapters, and they'll get a faster charging time with it too.

16. A Portable Power Bank To Keep Their Devices Charged Up

Another constant battle that every digital nomad will be all too familiar with will be the one between their working hours and the battery life on their phones and laptops.

As it can be so frustrating to get into a great work flow, only for the flashing red light of doom to appear to tell you your device is about to die.

And while this isn't a problem if you have a power outlet nearby, If you are working on a plane, train, or somewhere outside, it can really disrupt your day.

So our next gift idea for a digital nomad is to get them a portable power bank.

As this way they can always charge their devices up when the battery is getting low, and never have to deal with their phone or laptop dying on them 

And a good choice for this is the Anker portable power bank, as this has various ports so they can charge up multiple devices, and is small and compact so they can carry it around in their bag or pocket. 

17. An External Hard Drive For Backing Everything Up

When you're working on the road as a digital nomad, you will be storing lots of important files and information on your laptop, which can be a problem.

As not only does it fill up your laptop's memory and cause it to run slower than usual, you also run the risk of losing these files if your laptop is lost, stolen, or damaged.

So getting them an external hard drive is a fantastic gift idea.

As this way they can safely store all their important stuff on it, plus make backups of the files on their laptop as a safeguard in case anything happens.

And for one that is perfect for nomads, check out the LaCie rugged external hard drive.

As this one has a huge 4TB of space, and is designed to be durable enough to be able to survive life on the road

18. A Productivity Planner To Keep Them On Track

Having the freedom to work online as a digital nomad, without a boss looking over your shoulder or strict working hours to keep, can be a real blessing.

However it also takes a lot of self discipline.

Because as you have no-one to answer to, it is up to you and you alone to make sure you put the hours in and get the work done every day.

And while some people have this inner drive and motivation, others may struggle to stay focused.

So a great gift idea for any digital nomad who falls into this category is The Productivity Planner.

This is a work journal designed from scientific research into what makes people productive, which allows them to add weekly goals and make those goals easy to track.

So it can really help them with their work and keep their eyes on the prize.

19. A Membership To A Co-working Space

While the freedom of being a digital nomad is great, it can also feel like a lonely furrow at times, as you may miss the buzz of working in a busy office.

And while coffee shops can fill this void a little, to get some real social stimulation and interaction it's better to find a co-working space to work from.

As these have been specially set up to cater for remote workers and freelancers to come in and work on their stuff, so you'll be surrounded by like-minded individuals.

And they regular run social events and workshops so people can get together, meaning you won't feel so alone when working out of one of these places.

So if you know a digital nomad who is craving a little more social interaction, how about signing them up for a months membership at a nearby co-working space.

As this will give them the chance to road test the idea for free, and decide if they want to continue using one going forward.

20. Online Courses To Sharpen Their Skills

Becoming a digital nomad doesn't mean you become any less ambitious or focused on your career.

And a great way of furthering yourself is by learning new skills through online courses.

As this will give you the skills and qualifications you need to become more valuable to your clients, and earn more money in the future.

So if you know a digital nomad who has an eye on learning something new, how about treating them by signing them up for the course of their choice.

This way they get to further themselves, and you get a good feeling knowing you are helping them on their way.

And a good place to look for courses is Udemy, as they have hundreds of courses to choose from that are perfect for digital nomads.

21. Books About The Nomad Lifestyle

Being a digital nomad is a lifestyle choice, and many who choose this path with have the entrepreneurial and vagabond spirit inside them.

So getting them a book relating to this to read during their down time is a pretty cool gift idea.

And the bible for digital nomads is The 4-hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss, which practically started the whole nomad revolution.

Then there is Vagabonding by Rolf Potts, which is full of tips and advice on how to travel long-term and live life on the road.

And how to get back into 'normal' life if your nomad journey comes to an end.

Or if you know an aspiring digital nomad, or one just starting out, then How To Travel Full Time by Daneger and Stacey is a great choice.

As it's also full of practical tips and advice on how to survive and enjoy the digital nomad lifestyle, as well as detailed guides on some of the top digital nomad hot spots around the world.

22. A Kindle Paperwhite For Easy Reading

Buying books for a digital nomad who loves to read is a lovely gift idea, but sometimes this can take up too much room and add too much weight to their backpacks.

So why not treat them to a Kindle Paperwhite instead?

As these are light as a feather, paper thin, and can be loaded up with hundreds of books at a time.

So they'll never run out of things to read to help pass a long journey ever again.

23. A Nintendo Switch For Gaming On The Move

If you know a digital nomad that prefers to play video games rather than read, then you could get them a Nintendo Switch rather than a Kindle.

As these are great for having in their bag to play on the move, and can really take the pain and boredom out of a long plane or train journey.

And they can also be plugged into their TV at home too, if they want to play video games on the big screen.

So one of these would be ideal for any nomad that enjoys gaming to help them wind down after a long day.  

24. A Portable Bluetooth Speaker For Their Tunes

Another almost essential gadget for a digital nomad is a portable speaker.

As this gives them something to listen to music on, or to add better sound quality when watching movies or Netflix shows on their laptop.

Plus these speakers also work great for days by the pool or at the beach, as you can get some music going when hanging out with your friends.

So no digital nomad is going to turn their nose up at the gift of a portable speaker, and a top choice is the JBL Flip 5.

As this one is small and light enough to slip easily inside their backpack or day bag, yet still packs a punch in the volume stakes.

And it connects to their smartphones or laptops via Bluetooth, so no wires or cables are needed.

While also being waterproof and tough enough to be able to survive the constant travel and days out.

25. A Digital Camera To Capture All The Memories

As a digital nomad that can choose to live anywhere in the world, you will forever be coming across stunning places, interesting people, and breathtaking experiences.

And you'll want to capture all of these wonderful memories by taking plenty of photos along the way.

So if you want to splurge and really treat a digital nomad, think about buying them a digital camera as a gift.

As this way they can take professional looking photos and videos that will truly capture the beauty of all the places they visit.

And a real favourite among the nomad crowd is the Canon Powershot G7 X, as this is capable of taking truly stunning images and 1080p full HD video.

Making it a really great piece of kit that any digital nomad would treasure.

26. A Versatile Tripod For Steadier Shots

If your digital nomad already has a great digital camera, then you could get them a tripod for it instead.

As using a tripod will allow them to set up shots that look fantastic, as well as keeping their videos steady and professional looking.

And the tripod to go for here is the Joby Gorillapod.

Because these tripods are ideal for nomads, as they are light, easy to carry around, and extremely versatile.

As they have rubberised feet and adjustable legs that can create a steady stand for your camera on any surface, no matter how uneven it is.

And you can also wrap them around things like trees or lampposts, to get shots from a different angles too.

27. An AirBnB Gift Card To Save On The Rent

Most digital nomads find that the easiest way to rent out apartments for a month or two in foreign countries is through AirBnB.

As they're not tied into long-term rental contracts, and can have all the utility bills included in the price.

So it's just so much easier and more convenient to do it this way.

And this is why getting them an AirBnB gift card is likely to be so well received.

As they can use this money the next time they book an apartment, and maybe even pay that bit extra for an even nicer place.

So it's a gift that will really help them out..

28. Treat Them To An Adventure Wherever They Are Right Now

The things we do and experience in life last longer in the heart and memory than the things we own.

So why not treat a digital nomad to a tour, adventure, or day out in the city they are currently residing in.

As this way they get to enjoy a really fun and exciting time, doing something they probably wouldn't have considered doing for themselves.

This could include spa days, afternoon tea, food tours, bar crawls, zip lining, bungee jumping, or any of the main tourist must-see things to do.

And this can really help them to let their hair down and truly enjoy the place they are in.

29. Pay For A Night In A Fancy Hotel

The digital nomad lifestyle isn't a holiday, and as such nomads have to keep a close eye on their costs and expenses.

As freelancers and remote workers can't always guarantee their income each month.

And many will choose to live in very modest accommodation in order not to spend too much, so they can save a bit for a rainy day.

This means that they aren't the kind of people to spend money on frivolous things, even when they are things that they would enjoy.

So treating them to a night at a luxury hotel would be such a lovely gift.

As this way they can relax and pamper themselves for the night, order some room service, and get to experience the place they are in more like a tourist again.

And take a day off from frugal nomad living.

30. Get Them A Plane Ticket Home For The Holidays

On the whole, the life of a digital nomad is a pretty amazing one.

As you get to see and experience the world, meeting new people every day, and live in some truly spectacular places.

However that doesn't mean you never get homesick.

Because there are times when you really miss your friends and family, and wish you could spend some time with them.

And this is never more true than during the holiday season.

So if you want to get a lovely surprise gift for a digital nomad, how about buying them a plane ticket to fly home to spend the holidays with their family.

As this is something that most nomads would truly love to do, but don't as the prices are through the roof at this time of year and they can't afford to do so.

Which makes it such an awesome gift to give, both for them and for you too.

Rounding Up

The digital nomad lifestyle can be fantastic, as it's full of freedom, fun, and adventure.

However, buying a gift for a nomad is tough, as they are very picky about what stuff they carry around with them.

So I hope you've managed to find a suitable gift among this list of gift ideas for digital nomads that I've given you here.

As these are gifts that they will find useful, and are sure to put a smile on their faces.