Moving abroad is an exciting and daunting experience, especially for those who have never done it before.

If you’re looking for a practical gift for someone who is moving abroad, here are some great ideas that will help make their transition easier and more enjoyable.

From helpful items like packing cubes and travel adapters to comfort items like noise-cancelling headphones and travel pillows, these thoughtful gifts are sure to make their journey smoother and more comfortable.

So whether your loved one is headed off on a long-term trip or relocating permanently, these practical presents will show just how much you care about them as they embark on this new adventure!

gifts for someone moving abroad

Luggage

Get them a luggage set that will make their travels easy and stylish. Look for a set that is lightweight, durable and able to handle the rigors of international travel.

If your loved one is planning a backpacking trip around the world, a lightweight suitcase or duffel bag might be a great option.

With the current issues with airports and airlines, we recommend travelers get an Apple Air tag or a luggage locator.

Need help choosing a backpack? Read our guide to learn more about the best backpacks.

Packing Cubes

We’ve all experienced the dreaded issue of trying to fit everything in one suitcase for a big trip. Packing cubes are an invaluable tool for anyone who likes to travel light and stay organized.

They come in all sorts of sizes, colors, and patterns, so you can find one that matches your loved one’s style.

Learn more by reading our guide featuring the best packing cubes for travelers.

Travel Adapter

A universal travel adapter is essential for anyone who will be plugging in electronics while they travel around the world.

The adapter should be compatible with all types of outlets, plus USB ports for charging phones and other devices.

Waterproof Bag

Whether your recipient is going on an adventure or just navigating the busy streets of a big city, make sure they don’t leave home without a waterproof backpack.

This will come in handy during rainy days, trips to the beach, or simply for keeping their belongings dry and safe while they travel.

If they plan to travel with a backpack, you could buy a waterproof backpack cover instead.

Amazon Kindle

An Amazon Kindle is an essential for any avid reader who loves to travel. A good read can help pass the time on long trips, and with the Kindle you have access to thousands of books at your fingertips.

The latest models are also lightweight, so they won’t add much bulk to their luggage.

You can even get a subscription to get all the ebooks you’d like.

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Long plane rides and bus journeys can be draining, but noise-cancelling headphones can make the experience much more pleasant.

They are perfect for blocking out loud conversations, screaming children, and other annoying sounds that we come across while traveling.

Travel Pillow

Long-haul flights can be tough on the neck and back, but a good travel pillow can make all the difference. Look for one that is lightweight, comfortable, and easy to pack.

Portable Charger

We all know the feeling of being stranded with a low battery and no charger. Help your loved one stay connected with a portable charger that fits in their pocket.

Travel Speaker

Whether you’re having a beach day or just hanging out in your hotel room, a travel speaker will make any trip more enjoyable.

For example, the JBL Flip 5 is small and lightweight, making it easy to throw in a bag and take on your travels.

Quick-Dry Towel

Beach days, swimming in the hotel pool, and long hikes will be much more comfortable with a quick-dry towel. Look for one that is lightweight, compact, and easy to pack.

Travel Games

Whether it’s a long train ride or a rainy day stuck in the hotel, travel games can make any trip more fun.

Here are the ones you should be playing right now:

Are you looking for a game suitable for camping and van life? Take a look at the best campervan games.

Gift Cards

If you aren’t sure precisely what travel gear suits the traveler in your life, you can always give them an Amazon Gift Card.

Travel Insurance

The last thing you want to worry about when traveling is getting sick or injured abroad. Travel insurance can provide peace of mind, so be sure to consider it when shopping for a gift.

Travel Experience

How about a travel experience? You could buy a gift box that allows the traveler in your life to pick an activity from a wide range of travel experiences. Tinggly has activities and day trips organized everywhere around the world.

Instead of giving stuff, give them memories.

bunjee jump

Worldpackers Plan

If your friend or loved one is planning on volunteering abroad, why not give them the annual plan from Worldpackers – which allows travelers to get free accommodation abroad in exchange for work?

It’s an excellent way to create memories, but more importantly, to stay safe while you do it. Use this promo code to get a $10 discount: ABROKENBACKPACK.

Final Thoughts On Gifts For Someone Moving Abroad

By now, you should have plenty of great gift ideas for someone moving abroad or going abroad.

We hope this guide was helpful to you and that you can surprise your friend with a practical gift.

Need more help with gifts? Read one of the following guides:

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015. She is been living abroad since 2014. Originally Canadian, she has been living and working online in many destinations around the world. She is passionate about traveling, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit.

She has traveled extensively in Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. She is now living in Thailand.


☑ Book your flight: Who said you won’t be able to find cheap flights? My top saving tip is flexibility. If you're flexible, you should be able to find a cheaper flight. Check out Skyscanner or Google Flights for the hottest deals.

☑ Book your accommodation: Want the comfort of being at home or the luxury of a hotel? I love using Vrbo and Booking.com for those very reasons. If you're a solo traveler, Hostelworld offers a wide variety of hostels you should take a look at. Alternatively, if you're a budget traveler, sign up for Worldpackers to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work.

☑ Rent a car or an RV: Make your trip more comfortable by renting a car with DiscoverCars.com. This website allows you to compare car rentals around the world. If you're traveling in the United States, find an RV rental on RVshare.

☑ Stay safe: Travel mishaps happen – so, better be safe than sorry by covering your back with travel medical insurance. I would suggest SafetyWing, Genki or Heymondo as they offer the best rates, especially for long-term travelers.

☑ Pack the essentials: Universal charger, check; power bank, check; passport, check! What else could you forget? I've put together this ultimate packing list just for you!

☑ Do you need a visa? If you aren't sure if you need a visa, it’s highly recommended for you to double-check. You can use iVisa - it's super useful and easy to use.

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.