When someone you care about answers the call to serve as a missionary, you know they’re stepping into something big—something brave, beautiful, and often far from home. Whether they’re headed across the country or halfway around the world, they’re packing up more than just clothes. They’re carrying faith, love, and a deep desire to help others.
And while that mission might feel priceless, the practical side of preparing for it? That’s where we come in.
Finding the right going-away gift for a missionary can be tricky. You want something meaningful, useful, and respectful of their journey—not just another trinket to take up space in their suitcase. Below, you’ll find gifts that serve a purpose, offer comfort, or remind them of the people praying for them back home. These are the little things that can make a big difference when they’re far from familiar ground.
Gifts for Missionaries Going Away to Serve
1. Leather Travel Journal
A leather travel journal feels like a small anchor on a big mission. This pocket-size notebook tucks easily into a daypack, with thick, bleed-resistant pages that handle prayer lists, language notes, and quick sketches. The refillable inserts (lined, blank, and kraft) keep it useful long after the first village visit. Durable, real leather ages beautifully—becoming a keepsake of testimonies, answered prayers, and stories your missionary will carry home.
2. Waterproof Bible Cover or Case
Keeping Scripture safe on the road matters. This waterproof PU leather Bible cover shields a well-loved Bible from rain, dust, and the bumps of travel, while the easy-clean finish is perfect for fieldwork. The elegant debossed floral design feels quietly hopeful, and the sturdy construction helps preserve notes and ribbon markers for years. It’s a thoughtful send-off that lets your missionary carry God’s Word confidently—wherever the call leads.
3. Mini First Aid Kit
Every missionary heading out into the field could use the peace of mind that comes with a well-stocked first aid kit. This compact, waterproof case is filled with over 150 essentials—from bandages and gloves to tweezers and antiseptic pads—so they’ll be ready for the unexpected. Lightweight and organized into clear compartments, it slips easily into a backpack, making it a smart companion for long days of travel, outreach, or service.
4. Multi-Tool Keychain
Missionaries often find themselves in places where a little tool can make a big difference. This multi-tool keychain packs more than 16 functions—like screwdrivers, wrenches, and a bottle opener—into a key-shaped design that slips right onto their keyring. Made from durable stainless steel, it’s lightweight, TSA-approved, and always handy for quick fixes or unexpected needs. A small but mighty gift that helps them stay prepared wherever their journey takes them.
5. Portable Charger
While it’s not the most glamorous gift, it’s definitely one of the most appreciated. A lightweight, portable phone charger ensures they’ll never be caught with a dead battery when they need their GPS, notes, or a message from home. Look for one with fast charging and multiple ports—bonus if it includes solar or USB-C capabilities for overseas travel. In an unpredictable schedule, having this backup power source brings one less thing to worry about.
6. Water Bottle with Filter
Clean drinking water isn’t always guaranteed on the mission field, which is why a filtered water bottle can be such a thoughtful gift. This stainless steel Brita bottle keeps water cold for 24 hours and uses a built-in straw filter to reduce chlorine taste and odor with every sip. Durable, leak-proof, and easy to carry, it helps missionaries stay hydrated safely while also cutting down on single-use plastics.
7. Foldable Tote Bag
Travel days often end with more to carry than expected. This foldable tote solves it beautifully—it scrunches down in seconds into a tiny pouch, small enough to slip in a pocket or tuck beside a passport. When opened, it becomes a sturdy extra bag for groceries, donation pickups, or church supplies. Lightweight yet reliable, it’s the “just in case” carryall your missionary will use again and again.
8. Inspirational Scripture Cards
Tuck these pocket-size verse cards into a wallet or daypack, and your missionary will always have encouragement within reach. Each card features an uplifting Bible verse with the full Scripture on the back—perfect for quick devotion, sharing with new friends, or leaving with someone who needs hope. The sturdy keepsake box makes gifting easy, and the 100 unique cards keep fresh inspiration flowing through long travel days and quiet ministry moments.
9. Travel-Friendly Devotional Book
Send them off with a steady rhythm of Scripture and encouragement. This travel-friendly 365-day devotional by Tony Dungy offers short, practical reflections on integrity, purpose, and walking with God—perfect for early mornings before outreach or quiet evenings after long days. Compact enough for a backpack, it helps your missionary stay grounded, challenged, and refreshed all year as they serve far from home.
10. Compact Flashlight
A reliable flashlight is one of those little things that makes a big difference in the field. This compact LED light slips easily into a pocket yet shines up to 492 feet, bright enough to guide the way in unfamiliar places or during evening ministry work. With its water-resistant aluminum body and adjustable zoom beam, it’s built to endure travel. A simple, practical gift that brings both safety and peace of mind.
11. “Open When” Letter Kit
Being far from home can be tough, which makes an “Open When” letter kit such a heartfelt gift for missionaries. With 16 beautifully designed envelopes, loved ones can fill each with personal notes, photos, or small keepsakes to be opened at just the right moment—when they’re homesick, celebrating, or simply needing encouragement. It’s a simple way to send love and support across the miles, one envelope at a time.
12. Travel Throw Blanket
Long flights and overnight bus rides can feel a little less daunting with a cozy travel blanket on hand. This lightweight microfiber throw unfolds to full size for warmth, then tucks neatly into its pouch to double as a pillow. With a strap and clip, it attaches easily to luggage or a backpack, making it perfect for missionaries constantly on the move. Soft, practical, and comforting—it’s a gift that feels like home.
13. Passport Holder
A secure passport holder can make travel smoother and less stressful for missionaries heading abroad. This sleek PU leather wallet keeps documents, cards, and tickets neatly organized, while RFID-blocking technology protects personal information from digital theft. The magnetic closure makes access quick and easy on busy travel days, and its unisex design fits any style. Practical, stylish, and protective—it’s a thoughtful gift for someone stepping into a new journey.
14. Modest Cross Necklace
A simple cross necklace is more than just jewelry—it’s a daily reminder of faith and purpose. This modest silver-plated design is lightweight, adjustable, and hypoallergenic, making it comfortable for everyday wear, even in hot or humid climates. Packaged in a protective gift box, it’s ready to give as a meaningful keepsake. A beautiful way for missionaries to carry a visible sign of their commitment wherever their journey takes them.
15. Encouragement Bracelet
Sometimes the smallest reminders bring the greatest comfort. This encouragement bracelet, engraved with “In everything give thanks” from 1 Thessalonians 5:18, offers a daily message of hope and gratitude. Made from soft PU leather with a polished charm plate, it’s both durable and gentle on the skin. Packaged in a gift box, it’s a thoughtful send-off for missionaries—something they can glance at during tough days and feel strengthened in their calling.
Share this post with your friends!