Whether you’re shopping for Christmas, a birthday, or an anniversary, the question often arises: what are the best presents for pilots? Unfortunately, purchasing the perfect item for an often well-traveled, well-read, and intelligent individual becomes quite difficult, leaving would-be gift-givers at a loss.
We’re going to take a look at some of the best presents for pilots, crew members, airmen, and lovers of aviation to give you some ideas for your next gifting occasion. Keep reading for more information.
Multi-Time Zone Watches
Giving a pilot a beautiful watch is a great way to ensure that they look stylish and are on time for all of their flights. Giving a pilot a watch that features multiple time zones is the perfect way to help them with punctuality and allow them to keep track of the time at home or in other locations.
Aside from these facts, an aviation watch provides a full range of functionality while flying, giving pilots a secondary tool to use in case of any systems or instrument malfunction.
Polarized Aviator Sunglasses
Pilots are exposed to UV rays during their flights which can cause damage to their eyes.
A great way to prevent this from happening is by giving them a stylish pair of polarized aviator sunglasses. Polarization blocks horizontal light which causes a blinding glare. Additionally, polarized sunglasses help improve and sharpen anything within the wearer’s view.
Aviator sunglasses were designed to offer military pilots the best possible protection while in flight, covering more of their eyes while also remaining close to the face to ensure visors can easily be lifted.
Aside from these facts, aviator sunglasses provide a classic aesthetic while at work and on the go that your pilot or crew member will be sure to love.
Bluetooth Aviation Headset
Many airlines will provide their pilots with headsets for their flights. However, these headsets are meant to be practical — not necessarily comfortable, high-end, or even completely functional for the needs of today’s pilots.
With this said, many current and future pilots would love to receive a new Bluetooth aviation headset. Newer models of headsets are designed with comfort in mind, making them perfect for both long-haul and shorter flights.
Bluetooth will allow pilots to connect to their favorite music or audiobook, helping to pass the time without interfering with any needed communications.
Flight Logbook
Pilots must keep track of their flights and several pieces of information before, during, and after flying, making a logbook not only an essential item but also a great present.
Ideally, a logbook will have a sturdy cover, be large enough to write flight information, yet be small enough for easy travel. Depending on how often your pilot takes flight, you might consider finding one with extra pages to avoid having to replace it as frequently.
Aviation Memorabilia
Most people don’t begin flying as a hobby or professionally because they hate it — they do it because they’re fascinated with the process, the history, and the science of flying.
There are some amazing gift choices for aviators, making it easy to find presents to reflect the areas of aviation that your pilot loves.
You can easily find framed copies of the Wright Brothers’ original patent prints, models of historically significant planes, and other interesting items for a pilot’s home.
For aviators that enjoy taking their love of flying with them as they travel, airplane engine cufflinks or a personalized travel charm for luck could be the perfect present. These items are small enough to be taken on every flight yet are a constant reminder of loved ones at home.
Self-Care Packages
We know — what in the world does self-care or skincare have to do with aviation and why would a pilot need it? Aside from the fact that everyone needs self-care from time to time, flying often can dull your skin from the changes in blood flow and the continued exposure to dry, recycled air.
Some people are a bit finicky when it comes to the products they use on their bodies, especially their faces. If you happen to know exactly what brands your pilot loves, try to stick with that. Otherwise, aim to find hydrating, natural, and vitamin-filled skincare lines that will offer support for dry, dehydrated, or dull skin.
Tablets, iPads, and Tech Goodies
Most pilots enjoy using mobile devices for entertainment purposes, to make video calls to loved ones, and to keep track of their flights. Unfortunately, they don’t always have the time to purchase a newer model after their current one becomes outdated.
Purchasing your favorite pilot a new tablet to take with them as they fly can be an excellent way to keep in touch and know that they won’t get bored during weather delays.
If the pilot in your life already has a newer tablet, you might consider purchasing other tech-related items like solar-powered chargers to keep their device charged, a Bluetooth keyboard, extra power cords, or earbuds for when they’re off the clock.
Screen protectors, drop-proof cases, or a subscription to their favorite music or audiobook service will compliment their new tablet or are great as stand-alone gift options.
The Gear Bag Gift That Keeps Giving
If you really want to ‘wow’ the pilot, crew member, or airmen in your life, consider a gift that they’ll be able to use for years to come as their sturdy companion during flights and travel of all kinds.
The gift we’re talking about is a gear bag from BrightLine Bags.
Our flight bags and travel bags were designed with pilots in mind, are entirely reconfigurable for a variety of needs and uses, and have lots pockets and modules for versatile storage. These bags are customizable to be just the right size to fit all of the gear needed to complete any flight. Our bags are perfect for both shorter and longer trips. And then, when work is over and the fun begins, our gear bags can convert to all sorts of other uses because of the modular system design.
If you’re not sure exactly what type of flight or travel bag is best for them, check out our preconfigured flight bags — they make perfect presents for pilots, crew members, airmen, lovers of aviation, and frequent travelers. And from there, the wide choice of optional components and accessories ensures that the bags will become even more useful through time for all sorts of gear. It’s truly a gift that keeps on giving.