One thing I have been trying to do more of sharing my active travel and adventures here on the blog.  I love to take adventure of all the local outdoor activities when I am in a new place, rather then over indulge on food and drink.  For each new destination, I have had to acquire new pieces of kit and now have a living room that overflows with stuff.  To help you not over buy, I have listed gift items that are useful on the road and at home.  Anything marked with a * i have received a complimentary sample of and enjoyed testing out.  The rest are suggestions that I have yet to try.

Paramo Expedition Towel– It is perfect for your gym bag or hand luggage. Made from Parameta® S fabric, this towel provides a luxurious feel with unique water-management properties to give a low bulk, rapid drying towel, ideal for expedition and general travel use.  It can even be recycled by Paramo if you don’t want it any more.

Leki Micro Vario Carbon poles-  Do you love sporty trekking and are often on the go? The Micro Vario Carbon, equipped with lots of details, supports you uphill and downhill and helps you save energy. In addition to the anatomically formed AERGON Thermo Long Grip and the super simple Speed Lock 2 Adjustment System comes the newly developed ELD External Locking Device, which ensures more stability and safety on the mountain thanks to its special construction. The pole can be folded together to a pack size of 40 cm at the push of a button and can be stored in any backpack. Weighing in at just 240 g, it is a real all-rounder.  You might not have a use for this at home but perhaps you can lend them to a friend?

Kathmandu Small Departure RFIDtech wallet–  Protect yourself from digital theft with this space saving Departure Wallet. With a few precisely designed sleeves and slots, including two safe RFIDtech pockets, you’ll be able to easily keep all your essential travel documents organised.  When you are not travelling, you can also store leftover currency and spare SIM cards.

Furoshiki slip on shoes– these Vibram shoes are super comfortable for exploring cities on foot yet stylish enough to wear almost anywhere. Without laces to try, they make airport security a piece of cake. They do have a zero heel drop so you will probably need to get used to wearing them at first.  Another bonus?  They pack down small so won’t take up too much room in your suitcase.  You can also use them as slippers at your Air BNB.

Osprey Transporter zip bag*- I have been testing out the 30L rollover top bag in teal. It is a little more slick than the traditional backpack I normally use. It has a laptop sleeve, lots of internal organisation and side zips for a water bottle or snacks (which I always have on hand). The material is also water resistant, which is handy in London! Chest and hip straps mean you can travel, hike or run with it too.

Oatein snacks*- I highly recommend their Millionaire squares. Indulgent, portable and filling too which is why I will pack them on my next trip out of town. Did you know the Millionaires are also vegan, contain zero sugar, and are palm oil- and gluten-free?

Miss Plume Bowling Bag–  Part of a lightweight and stylish range, this bag adds some sparkle to your carry-on.  With a 14L bag capacity, you have room for overnight necessities or gym kit for your weekly personal training session.

Hydro Flask coffee flasks*- These are very versatile for hot or cold drinks (coffee, tea, hot chocolate, water, beer, wine, whiskey). The lid doesn’t leak (bonus) and you will be saving the environment too.  I used mine at Love Trails Festival this summer as I don’t drink but I do enjoy JD and coke.  There are a few different sizes available, depending on how much coffee you normally drink.

1000 Mile compression socks*– These socks are great for helping maintain your leg circulation when flying (I need to wear these because I have a history of blood clots) and to aid in recovery after long days of walking around town. The bright colours makes me smile too. You won’t loose these in your suit case.

Sherpa Amdo crew sweater–  A portion of each Sherpa Adventure Gear sale supports children in Nepal so why not get a new jumper this Christmas?  Featuring a unique design inspired by the Dhaka textiles, the Kopan Crew Sweater in Peetho White feels super soft against your skin thanks to the blend of extra fine merino wool, alpaca wool and synthetic fibres. Naturally odour resistant and moisture wicking, the Kopan keeps you cool and stays fresh throughout the day. Pair with jeans for the office or layer up under a waterproof for those outdoor adventures.  Merino will help keep the your body temp in check and the smell at bay.


Salomon Supercross trail running shoes*– Great for running trails, pounding pavements and treading on snow. GTX means your feet stay dry. There are lots of colours available, quicklace for ease, and a protective toe cap to avoid injury.

Kathmandu Trailhead rain jacket–  Available in both men’s and women’s, everyone can be prepared to ignore bad weather with the Trailhead Rain Jacket.  This coat is always a good idea to have in your travel bag.  This jacket was engineered for easy hikes, with pack-friendly chest pocket and a fit that moves with you as you explore your environment. An inner zip lets you adapt to changing temps by attaching the Trailhead fleece, which you can buy separately.

This list has me excited about all the places I will go in 2020.  What is a travel essential you can’t live without that I forgot to put on this list?