About TravelGiftList
Real travel experience. Honest recommendations.
Taro Schenker
Founder & Editor-in-Chief
I spent 10 years as a music tour manager, living out of bags and cases while crisscrossing North America, Europe, the UK, and Japan. When you're on the road 250+ days a year, you learn fast what gear holds up and what falls apart.
I've seen power banks die mid-flight, luggage wheels snap in Tokyo airports, and "durable" backpacks tear after one festival season. I've also found the products that just work—tour after tour, country after country.
That experience is why I started TravelGiftList. Too many gear reviews are written by people who've never actually traveled with what they're recommending. I wanted to build something different: recommendations from people who've actually put gear through its paces.
Real Experience, Not Research
Our recommendations come from years of professional travel, not just reading Amazon reviews.
Affiliate Transparency
Yes, we earn commissions. No, it doesn't influence our picks. We recommend what we'd actually buy—and often have.
We Name Names
Every review has a byline. You know exactly who's recommending what and why they're qualified.
Updated Regularly
Gear changes. Prices change. We keep our recommendations current.
What We Stand For
Our Editorial Team
Each reviewer brings specialized expertise to their category. From former flight attendants to electronics engineers, our team knows their gear.
Margot Bellamy
Senior Travel Editor
Former flight attendant turned travel journalist with 2M+ air miles.
Theo Castellanos
Tech & Gear Specialist
Electronics engineer turned travel tech reviewer. Has opinions about USB-C.
Nina Okonkwo
Adventure & Outdoor Editor
Former outdoor guide. Tests gear on trails, not in offices.
Jules Hartwick
Business Travel Expert
Ex-consultant who spent 12 years living out of a carry-on.
Devi Ramirez
Family & Gift Guide Editor
Gift-finding expert and mom who travels internationally with two kids.
We don't just aggregate other reviews. Our process combines real-world testing with deep research:
- Primary testing: When possible, we use products in actual travel conditions
- Expert synthesis: We analyze reviews from trusted sources like Wirecutter, Pack Hacker, and specialized publications
- User feedback: We read hundreds of verified purchase reviews to identify common patterns
- Longevity check: We prioritize products with proven durability records
- Value assessment: Great gear at every price point, not just premium picks
Want the full details? Read our complete methodology.
TravelGiftList is operated by Known By One LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.
131 Continental Dr, Suite 305
Newark, DE 19713, USA
Have Questions?
We'd love to hear from you. Whether you have feedback, suggestions, or questions about our recommendations, don't hesitate to reach out.
Contact Us