Holiday gift guide: For those who brave the daily commute

For your sibling, cousin, co-worker, or friend who braves the daily commute, here are some nifty gifts that might come in handy when braving Manila's often horrendous gridlocks. 

 

1. Self-defense aids 

 

Whether it’s advanced-level martial arts or a smoking hot cigarette (though the latter isn’t recommended), every commuter needs to be ready should they fall in harm’s way during their daily travels. 

 

And since not many can boast of a black belt in karate, the safety and security market offers other options for self-defense.

 

A trip to the hardware store will present you with several options already, from your all-around Swiss Army knife or multi-tool to the coveted pepper spray.

 

If you’re looking for something extra special, the bedazzled pepper spray canisters at Bling Sting (“super sparkly safety stuff”) can keep your friend safe and have them look cute while they do it. A standard kit costs $22 and includes ½ ounce pepper spray and a refillable case with key chain.  

 

2. Straps and cases

 

We can’t help bringing our gadgets around even if it means running the risk of exposing ourselves on public transportation. The best thing anyone can do is make sure everything is well-protected and well-stored.

 

Shock-proof and waterproof cases for phones, tablets, and music players are especially handy for those on the go. The really good ones tend to be expensive, so they make a perfect gift for the stingy friend who wants one but isn’t willing to spend on it.

 

Otterbox sells a range of commuter-friendly gadget cases for everything from the iPhone 6 Plus to the Samsung Galaxy Note.

 

Straps and chains are also a good way to make sure your gadgets, and even wallets, stay in place. Although the wallet chain has quite gone out of fashion, there’s no denying its usefulness. 

 

Similar mechanisms can be used to keep things safely strapped to your body and away from prying hands. 

 

BAGGU Leather has an indulgent selection of soft genuine leather straps that you can use for keys, gadgets, and pretty much anything else you can chain. They come in a wide range of colors, from tangerine to aquamarine. For P565 a loop, it’s quite pricey, but its simple elegance makes it an excellent gift. BAGGU is available at the My Ticker Tape Parade online shop.

 

3. Anti-theft bag 

 

This one goes without saying. The daily commuter knows what it’s like to have to wear your backpack in front or constantly worry about whether or not someone is reaching inside that big tote bag.

 

A bag engineered especially to avoid muggings and theft will help lessen the burden. Brands that specialize in this such as Pacsafe and Travelon sell a versatile range of anti-theft bags (from backpacks and belt bags to sling bags and shoulder bags). Expect to shell out around P2000 to P4000.  

 

If your friend isn’t the type to change their bag everyday then this gift is the one for them. 

 

4. Sole comfort

 

Another thing every commuter needs is a good pair of shoes to get them through a lot of walking, standing in line, and even standing in transit.

 

Instead of getting them a new pair of shoes (though they surely wouldn’t complain if you did), you can get the next best thing—gel cushions to make their existing pair extra comfortable.

 

Planet Sports has several different kinds of gel cushions (insole, heel, arch, etc.) to accommodate each and every foot ache. They have adhesive backing so the cushion doesn’t slip and slide while you walk. Also, they’re washable and reusable. The prices for these range from P60 to P400 for a pair, depending on the brand and kind of cushion.

 

It just so happens that this kind of gift is also something the hard-core party girl in your life will appreciate as well. — VC, GMA News