Back to School — or Back to Reality — Gifts for Active Travelers

Whether the young adults or young professionals in your life are heading back to school, the office or some new version of normal, sending them off with something thoughtful is always in style. Check this list for something your loved one (or yourself) can use to ease out of the house with style.

Sneaker LAB Sneaker Wipes: $8

For the runners in your crew, whether living with you or on their own, dirty sneakers are residing somewhere. Designed for on-the-go cleaning, Sneaker LAB’s sneaker wipes can be taken anywhere and clean most materials, including leather, canvas, suede and nubuck. Created in South Africa, these wipes cleanse and protect footwear and, in a world of increasing concern for hygiene, are a great natural way to take care of the home your shoes are in, too.

Nomadix Beach Towel. Photo: Nomadix

Nomadix Ultra Light Towel: $29

For that traveler you know that’s always cold, especially on an airplane, the Ultralight Nomadix towel is a great sustainable gift. Use the towel as an in-flight blanket, picnic blanket, beach cover and all-purpose anything in between. The Nomadix towel can do the job of a few items, cutting down space in your carry-on bag. It packs down small to be taken anywhere, and is made with recycled plastic bottles, so you know it’s durable.

Coalatree Compass Backpack: $79

Whether your teen, college student or young professional is getting back to it on a limited schedule or full steam ahead, this backpack is designed to keep up. The Coalatree Compass backpack is ready for travel, the office or your commute, with padded sleeves to fit a laptop up to 17 inches and a 10-inch tablet. There are also secured compartments for tucking away important documents from strangers, while offering easy access for the wearer. The backpack even includes two hydration sleeves on the sides and is made from a blend of durable, slash-proof, water-resistant material, keeping contents safe and dry.

Paww Headphones: $40–100

Block out the noise while traveling, or enjoy your music, podcasts and movies in peace with a variety of noise-canceling options from Paww Headphones. Free yourself of outside sounds while studying or traveling, or grab an active, lighter pair for running and walking.