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• Gifts for grown-ups

The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

By Samantha Schoech

Samantha Schoech is a writer focusing on gifts. She spends her time finding things that combine quality, beauty, usefulness, and delight.

Give the globe-trotter in your life a gift that will appeal to their sense of worldly wonder. These items will make flights, long lines at customs, and hotel stays feel less arduous and more comfortable. You could also give your favorite traveler special mementos and experiences to celebrate past trips and anticipate future expeditions. Whatever type of traveler you’re shopping for, we have something here to suit their wanderlust.

Bluetooth connection

This small, portable transmitter sounds as good as more expensive options, and it actually works as advertised, which isn’t a given in this category.

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Watching an in-flight movie with freebie airline earbuds is an exercise in missed dialogue and muffled music. The 1Mii ML300 allows travelers to connect their own Bluetooth headphones or earbuds to the plane’s audio system with a standard jack. This little gadget has a solid, 10-hour battery life, support for the aptX Low Latency Bluetooth codec (to improve the sync between audio and video), and the ability to pair to two sets of headphones at once. Like all the Bluetooth transmitters our audio team tested, it can produce some audio lag. Although it isn’t a flashy gift, it can make your giftee’s travel more pleasant.

Anywhere outlet

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

With four plugs that will work in 150 countries, plus four USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and an AC socket, this adapter is the best all-around choice for anyone traveling out of the country.

If your sojourning friend is about to travel internationally, they’ll need a reliable plug adapter. The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which together cover the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter our travel team tested, and it charges more devices faster. A replaceable fuse and an included spare should take care of any shockingly bad connections. Still, it doesn't cover every possible plug around the globe. For someone who is truly bopping from country to country, a multi-plug set like the Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set contains five different plugs, and it offers sold-separately add-ons for countries such as Brazil , India , Israel , and South Africa , which aren’t covered by “universal” adapters.

Personal-item perfection

Away The Everywhere Bag

This bag slides over the handles of your carry-on for easy transport. It’s made of durable nylon and has plenty of space for in-flight essentials.

Ah, the ideal “personal item”—the bag that’s small enough to stow under the seat in front but large enough to hold headphones, hydration, extra layers, reading material, a laptop, lunch, and whatever other items one might deem essential. It seems nearly impossible, but it can be done. Away’s The Everywhere Bag , made of water- and abrasion-resistant nylon, is our personal-item pick . It has a removable shoulder strap and a sleeve for slipping over the handles of a carry-on suitcase . Inside, your gift recipient will find a roomy interior pocket for clothes and toiletries, plus six smaller pockets and a 15-inch laptop sleeve. Outside is a single slim pocket for tickets and travel documents, and at the bag’s base is a waterproof umbrella pocket. Truly savvy packers could easily get a weekend’s worth of stuff in this bag.

Artful journaling

Hand Book Paper Co. Travelogue Watercolor Journal

This 5.25-by-8.25-inch landscape-oriented journal has 30 sheets of 90-pound watercolor paper.

Caran d'Ache Gouache Studio Set

With 14 shades and a tube of white in a reusable metal case, this gouache paint set allows for intuitive blending and layering, ideal for inspired amateur artists.

Kuretake Gansai Portable Watercolor Set

The travel version of our favorite watercolor paint set also comes with a self-cleaning water brush and a fine-tip black pen for outlines and definition.

One needn’t be a painter to enjoy the craft while traveling. Set a burgeoning artist up right with a few excellent tools of the trade. The compact Hand Book Paper Co. Travelogue Watercolor Journal is designed to absorb watercolors but lends itself just as well to pencil, ink, or gouache. Covered in natural linen, it has pouch-ready rounded corners and an elastic strap to keep it closed. Pair it with a set of gouache paints such as those in the Caran D’Ache Gouache Studio Set , which have a satisfying opacity and don’t require the patience, foresight, or skill of watercolors. Of course, some people prefer the abstract flow of watercolors, in which case the Kuretake Gansai Portable Watercolor Set is a better bet. Both palettes come with serviceable brushes; a more experienced painter might add a few extras as their skills progress.

Dry hair anywhere

PackTowl Personal

Whether used for camping, hiking, traveling, or general outdoor adventuring, this towel is durable enough to handle extended abuse while remaining soft and comfortable.

For adventurers who camp, stay in hostels, or otherwise travel rough, a personal towel is essential. Our pick is the PackTowl Personal , primarily for its odor-preventing antibacterial treatment, ideal for when laundry opportunities are few and far between. At 25 by 54 inches, it’s large enough to wrap around most folks, and it feels soft and substantial against the skin. It dries quickly, shakes free of sand readily, and weighs only 6.4 ounces—a primary concern for anyone carrying it in a backpack.

Noteworthy guidebooks

Herb Lester Guides

These magnificently designed fold-out maps provide unique and whimsical ways to explore dozens of locations around the world.

Gone are the days of carrying around dog-eared guidebooks to find hotels and museum hours. But there are still some things you can’t find online. The beautifully designed and lovingly written Herb Lester Guides provide travelers and armchair travelers alike with utterly unique ways to explore a new place. Serge Gainsbourg’s Paris doesn’t provide the entrance fee to the Louvre, but the gorgeous, 16-by-27-inch fold-out map, packaged in a printed cardstock case with a Gainsbourg cocktail napkin, does lead you to Studio Ferber, where the multitalented musician, actor, and director recorded the soundtrack to the hit movie Tenue de Soirée in 1986, or to L’Hôtel Meurice, where Gainsbourg often visited Salvador Dali. The series also includes John le Carre’s London ; The World of Patricia Highsmith , which touches on locations in the US, Mexico, and Europe; Andy Warhol’s New York , and dozens more.

Luggage helper

Cincha Travel Belt

This wide nylon strap has a sturdy buckle to keep your shoulder bag, backpack, or carry-on firmly attached to your roller bag, for smoother trips through the airport.

Anyone who travels has surely precariously perched their carry-on atop their rolling suitcase, only to have it topple, swivel, or lurch. Solve that annoyance with the Cincha Travel Belt , a useful offering that comes in some snazzy colors and patterns. The concept is simple: This adjustable nylon strap cinches a smaller bag to the telescopic handles of a suitcase, thereby freeing up a hand, shoulder, or back. Yes, your traveling friend could use a bungee or even a rope for that purpose, but this item has a few touches that make it worth the upgrade: The sturdy metal buckle releases like butter, and a hidden elastic loop keeps the belt attached to the suitcase, even when it’s unclasped. Yes, this is a practical gift, but for the right traveler, it will be a real gem.

Penkou Portable Neck Fan

This fan’s battery lasts all day, and several accidental drops haven’t killed it. Also, it fits comfortably around the neck without being heavy, loud, or excessively gusty.

This past summer, heat records broke across the globe, and many travelers reported that they found it difficult to stay cool and comfortable on the go. New York City’s heat wave prompted staff writer Thom Dunn to explore the world of wearable neck fans , including the Penkou Portable Neck Fan . And the Penkou model, with a ring of 72 air slots that softly blow air up toward the head (but not directly into the face), was his pick. It weighs only about half a pound, and because of its smooth plastic design, it’s barely noticeable against the neck and shoulders. One large button on the front right makes it easy to cycle through the fan speeds. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 16 hours, and the fan is compact enough to slip into a carry-on.

Handy sanitizer

Noshinku Hand Sanitizer

This flat, pocket-friendly hand sanitizer comes in sophisticated scents like vetiver, eucalyptus, and bergamot. And it’s refillable.

Traveling requires a lot of surface touching: airplanes, subways, taxis. If the pandemic taught us anything, it was that we should clean our hands as often as possible. The lovely-smelling Noshinku Hand Sanitizer is an FDA-compliant germ-killer that also contains stuff like jojoba, rosehip, argan oil, and aloe, to keep skin from drying out. Each canister is about the size of a credit card, though not quite as slim. So it can be slipped into a back pocket or a purse pocket. The best part is the canister is refillable , so your recipient can continue to use it for a long time.

Reading light

Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light

This chic, compact device offers five light settings, and the power indicator makes it easy to tell when to charge it.

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Whether your favorite traveler is reading on a plane, train, or bed, or they’re just rifling through their suitcase, they will surely appreciate some extra light. The tiny Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light is our pick because it’s so lightweight and easy to carry. It twists and adjusts, so the light covers a full page, and it has simple buttons, for changing the brightness and temperature of the lighting. This lamp is so small it can clip to a paperback without weighing it down, and it fits in a pocket.

Trip planner

Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When

This visual travel guide suggests events and destinations for every month of the year. It’s as much an inspiration as it is a planner.

Graphically exuberant and endlessly inspiring, Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When is arranged by month, so travelers can figure out where to head on any given day. Miami’s Art Deco Weekend is in January. Consider Botswana’s Okavango floods (the best time for dugout canoe safaris) in June. This book further categorizes potential trips by budget, family-friendliness, and “expensive but worth it” (a July road trip along the Westfjords of Iceland, for example). Even if the recipient is more of an armchair traveler than a frequent globe-trotter, this book is sure to kick their wanderlust into full gear.

Luggage tracker

Apple AirTag

AirTags leverage Apple’s huge network of devices to track down a lost suitcase, and they’re impressively accurate at pinpointing an item’s precise location.

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Whether it was misrouted by the airline or left behind in a station waiting room, a lost suitcase can really dampen a trip. The Apple AirTag —our favorite Bluetooth tracker —does not work with non-Apple products. But if your beloved traveler owns an iPhone, AirTags are better than their competitors in just about every way—from ease of setup to location accuracy. They track belongings almost in real time. And if an airline does lose your favorite traveler’s suitcase, they will have an accurate map to point to when trying to locate it. Wirecutter staffers have also had success with slipping AirTags into the pockets of their restless kids.

Arrive refreshed

Peace Out Puffy Eyes

Each box contains six pairs of under-eye patches, which are infused with caffeine and hyaluronic acid to depuff tired, travel-weary eyes.

Nobody looks—or feels—as fresh as a daisy after a flight. But the Peace Out Puffy Eyes cooling under-eye patches—a longtime favorite of supervising editor Hannah Morrill—can help with both. Each box contains six pairs of crescent-shaped patches, made of a gelatinous (but not icky) biocellulose gel. The cooling effect is certainly pleasant enough. But the ingredients (caffeine, for a temporary tightening effect, and hydrators glycerin, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid) are what really do the trick for travel-worn eyes.

Safe drinking water

LifeStraw Go Series

This water bottle’s microfilter straw protects against all sorts of contaminants—from microplastics to E. coli. And it makes everyday tap water taste better.

To turn non-potable water into fresh, clean drinking water, staff writer Samantha Schoech swears by the LifeStraw Go Series water bottle (she recently sent her son off to Central America with one). Its replaceable filter removes 99.9% of contaminants and protects against common waterborne pathogens. This bottle is a little pricey, but it eliminates the need for single-use plastic bottles. And each filter cleans 1,000 gallons, which translates to roughly five years of daily use. LifeStraw also makes a 1-liter collapsible bottle for when space is tight. (To learn a little more, see our article on the LifeStraw Max Water Filter .)

Plane entertainment

Nanoblock Birds Rosella Collection Series Building Kit

Flat bags packed with tiny building blocks keep bored hands and minds occupied on long treks. The resulting builds are about the size of a fist.

A person can only watch so many in-flight movies. On long hauls, we find these Nanoblock mini building sets to be just the ticket for restless hands and minds. They’re engaging but not mentally taxing, and the sets (ranging from about 100 to 200 pieces) are small enough to lay out on a tray table and later carry home in luggage. Finished pieces—from musical instruments to cats to pizzas—are only about 3 inches tall.

Power on the go

TravelCard Plus

This power bank is one of the smallest and lightest we’ve tested. It has a powerful USB-C PD port, built-in USB-C and Lightning cables, and a rated capacity of 3,000 mAh. But it recharges slower than our other picks.

At some point, your constantly on-the-go pal will require some extra juice, and a portable charger will ensure they have it when they need it most. We like the slim and petite TravelCard Plus , which also happens to be the smallest, lightest USB portable charger we tested. But there’s more to love than just its pocketable size. The TravelCard Plus’s USB-C PD port, built-in USB-C cable, and built-in Lightning cable can fast-charge most smartphones or other handheld devices (though it recharges more slowly than our other picks ).

An unmissable luggage tag

Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag

This brightly colored silicone tag displays the owner’s name but keeps other personal information out of sight.

There are a few features that make the Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag superior to pricier models in our testing . For starters, due to its sturdy, silicone-and-metal cable construction, it can withstand crowded overhead bins and rough tarmac treatment. Then there’s the issue of privacy: Although the owner’s name is always fully visible, address details are revealed only after you unscrew and remove the metal cable. Also an upside: This tag comes in a range of eye-catching colors. So it can help someone spot an otherwise-nondescript suitcase on a fast-moving carousel.

Premier toiletry transport

State Bags Bensen Toiletry Kit

This bag includes a detachable pouch and other organizational options, so packing is easier for both long and short trips.

For all manner of travelers, the State Bags Bensen Toiletry Kit is the most versatile one we tested . If your traveling pal takes longer trips and often checks their luggage, this bag folds up to stash larger items, like full shampoo bottles or contact solution; the hook hangs smoothly from a towel bar, for easy access. Our favorite feature for light packers: a removable translucent plastic pouch that holds up to four 2.7-ounce travel bottles (ideal for carry-on security checks). Available in a dozen prints and patterns, the bag also looks great and feels like a fancy, will-last-a-lifetime gift at a relatively modest price.

Small servings

Cadence Capsules

These leakproof plastic travel containers hold half an ounce of solids, liquids, or creams; magnetized sides keep them compact and easy to locate.

If your favorite excursionist wouldn’t dream of using hotel shampoo or missing a day of their skin-care regimen, a set of Cadence Capsules will serve as an anxiety-abating treat. (Less-particular travelers will appreciate our favorite simple toiletry bottles .) All six hexagonal cases are leakproof and magnetic on every side, and they can be filled with about a half-ounce of whatever the traveler’s heart desires—from serum and dry shampoo to omega-3 capsules and CBD gummies. The well inside each capsule has rounded corners, so the recipient can scrape out every last daub of their precious potions. Each vessel can be customized with a “tile” or label. But unless you know your recipient very well, we suggest giving a gift card , which will allow them to choose their own colors and tiles.

Organized packing

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

Simple and solidly constructed, these packing cubes maximize luggage space and keep everything organized.

Even for the most enthusiastic traveler, packing remains an uphill battle. The Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set (one of our favorites ) can make the task infinitely less arduous, and some of our testers found that this set made packing borderline pleasant. The three cubes are made of sturdy polyester, so they stay upright when empty, and the mesh windows let travelers easily scope the contents. With a clamshell design, these cubes fully open on three sides, so deeply stashed items are easily accessible. Another welcome note in the age of lost luggage: Pouches can help your favorite traveler compress stuff into a single carry-on.

Safety socks

SockWell Men’s Lifestyle Firm Compression Socks

These compression socks offer the perfect combination of function and price. They are made of a merino wool blend, which is typical of more-expensive options.

SockWell Women’s Lifestyle Firm Compression Socks

For a true frequent flier, wearing a great pair of compression socks is both a safety and a comfort measure. Long flights can cause deep vein thrombosis and gravitational oedema (the technical term for swelling caused by sitting around too long); compression socks facilitate circulation and reduce the instances of both. SockWell Lifestyle Firm Compression Socks (available in both men’s and women’s sizes) are comfortably snug, and they’re made of a luxe, merino wool blend that hugs without constricting. The socks are cozy on a nippy flight, and they come in a handful of prints and colors that aren’t as institutional-looking as those of other compression socks we tried.

A hands-free journey

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

This neoprene pack blends style and function, fitting everything from a large wallet to a makeup kit—with room to spare.

For those who like to explore new places but don’t want to carry a purse, a modern, cool fanny pack is just the right accessory. Of the 22 we tested, the Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack offers the best marriage of handsome looks (eight suave colors!) and plenty of storage space—it can readily hold a smartphone, a passport, a wallet, and hand sanitizer, and there are extra pockets for a transit card and some change. Wide straps make this bag comfortable to carry, and the neoprene material (think wetsuit) will keep gear dry if the weather shifts unexpectedly.

A cozy cardigan

White+Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan

This simple, luxurious, and flattering open-front cardigan will add a layer of warmth and elegance to a trip abroad.

There is nothing worse than boarding a flight and realizing you miscalculated just how chilly airplane AC can be. One of our favorite cashmere sweaters , the White+Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan is a simple and luxurious piece that will keep a traveler cozy both in transit and once they’ve reached their destination. This sweater is lightweight and soft enough to nap in (it can double as a blanket, thanks to its drapey shape), and it looks polished when layered over a tee or under a jacket. Available in six muted tones, the cardigan has an airy construction, so it can fold down smaller than expected for easy packing.

Colorful little notebooks

Pantone 10 Notebooks

Each brightly colored, pocket-size notebook has 48 grid-dot pages.

Not all travel journals need to be works of art, layered with watercolor and ink. The Pantone 10 Notebooks set includes 10 brightly colored, 4-by-5.5-inch softcover notebooks that are perfect for jotting down ideas, an itinerary, or travel memories. Each notebook slips nicely into a tote or a pocket and has 48 grid-dot pages of decent-quality paper. Send your traveler out into the world with a couple of these and a good pen , and see what they return with.

Armchair travel to Japan

Set in Edo-era Japan, this game revels in the simple pleasures of traveling—in this case, from the city of Kyoto to Edo (what is now Tokyo).

Players journey along the Tokaido road with other travelers, stopping at hot springs, stores, temples, and inns (and collecting souvenirs and eating delicious meals as they go). The ultimate goal is to be the “best traveler,” or to have the richest experience by seeing, eating, or doing the most during your trip. The game itself is beautifully designed and simple to play; it’s not deeply competitive, though there is some strategy involved in attempting to win. The pleasure of playing Tokaido comes from relaxing and accepting the pace of the board, and letting the game reveal surprising discoveries—much like travel itself.

A window out into the world

With each click in this free app, a view opens from a real window somewhere in the world, complete with sounds of birds, traffic, or blessed silence.

Sometimes the best gift is to remind someone that the world is both larger and more accessible than they realize. The strangely addictive WindowSwap allows viewers to take a break to stare out a window in cities such as Copenhagen, Manila, and Prague. Some of the window scenes are tranquil, others are not, but all suggest that there’s an infinite number of new things to see, wherever you are. The app is free, but for $5 a month, your armchair traveler will be able to look out all the windows ever uploaded, create unlimited bookmarks and playlists, and even access a back button so they can spend a little more time gazing out a favorite window.

An eye mask and a travel pillow for catching z’s

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

This lightweight, contoured mask comfortably fits a wide variety of face shapes and blocks light well. It’s best when you’re sitting upright or sleeping on your back.

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

This compressible pillow has tall, memory-foam walls, and it offers more support than any other pillow we tested.

It’s perhaps an indictment of air travel in general that many travel items are designed to mitigate the environment, whether it’s the noise, the light, or the cramped seats of an airplane. The Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask , a Wirecutter favorite , features contoured eyecups that rest around the eye sockets, instead of directly on the eyelids. By combining this mask with noise-cancelling headphones and a pillow, a traveler will be about as close to a sense of privacy as one can find on an airliner. For a headrest, we like the Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow . It’s simple to wear, doesn’t interfere too much with headphones, and provides support even when the wearer is sitting upright.

Tiny white noise machine

Yogasleep Travel Mini Sound Machine

This sound machine is about as small as the palm of a hand and weighs less than 5 ounces. And it features a USB-rechargeable battery.

There’s no guarantee that your beloved traveler’s hotel or Airbnb will be as quiet as it promises to be. A small, portable sound machine may create enough white noise to drown out sleep-disturbing intrusions. The Yogasleep Travel Mini Sound Machine is from the same company that makes the classic Yogasleep Dohm Nova , which we recommend . The Travel Mini has six sound options, including white noise, brown noise, and three nature-inspired sounds. It also acts as a gentle night-light, with three dimmable options. What’s better than the gift of a good night’s sleep?

A game about the birth (and death) of words

Those who enjoy language immersion (and disorientation) will appreciate this card game, which has players generate a unique dialect.

Part of the experience of traveling to another country is feeling lost in its language, and Dialect can help fill the gap. This game involves the birth (and eventual death) of a language and the culture that created it. At its heart, Dialect—which requires almost no setup but plenty of imagination—is as much a discussion of what language is and why it exists as it is a game. It’s also good for last-minute shoppers: Order the standard physical edition, and you’ll get a digital copy, too (online access is emailed immediately, so your loved one can start figuring out how the game is played).

Travel posters with classic appeal

Anderson Design Group World Travel Posters

These archive-quality, vintage-inspired prints depict destinations worldwide, and they come in a variety of sizes.

Years ago, senior staff writer Kit Dillon’s father went to Cuba and saw a clay statuette of Fidel Castro for sale. Kit said that when the vendor told his father the price, he said, “Castro no vale tanto” (translation: Castro isn’t worth that much). That may seem risky for an American to say while traveling alone in Cuba, but the statuette is here now looking at Kit, so somebody appreciated the joke. Ever since, Kit said when he finds a small token of Cuba—like this art print —he sends it to his father to remind him to take the trip again one day, only this time with Kit. For its World Travel Poster series , the Anderson Design Group created nostalgic images that harken back to another era of travel—and they make an excellent promissory note for a trip to come. The collection currently encompasses every country in Asia, Europe, Africa, and Central, South, and North America, and it will eventually include every country in the world. The prints come in six sizes, and the images are available on canvas or metal.

Cutlery to go

Hydro Flask Flatware Set

This three-piece stainless flatware set helps climate-conscious travelers avoid single-use plastics, and it comes with a Velcro carrying case.

Airport food has come a long way. What hasn’t progressed: the flimsy and environmentally deplorable single-use plastic utensils you have to eat it with. Portable cutlery will give your recipient a dignified way to dine on the go. Wirecutter editor Ria Misra recommends the sturdy stainless Hydro Flask Flatware Set , which comes with a full-size fork, a knife that’s strong enough to butter a muffin (but that won’t alarm the TSA), and a spoon that’s perfect for slurping soup. This set also comes with its own carrying case, so it won’t get lost (or separated) in the dark recesses of your carry-on.

A pretty passport cover

Tusk Siam Passport Cover

This elegant goatskin passport cover comes in 11 zippy color combos, and it won’t fade or scuff, even after years of traveling.

A bright passport cover will make it easy for your traveling pal to quickly locate their passport in a bag at the airport (or at home, when it’s shoved in the back of a drawer). Supervising editor Hannah Morrill loves the Tusk Siam Passport Cover , which is made from supple goatskin leather and comes in nine cheery color combinations. (Some other versions we’ve tried have a translucent pouch; in theory, this sounds ideal for flashing the relevant page at customs, but in practice, the cover ends up smudgy and embedded with crumbs.) Hannah reports that even after years of use, the slim folio looks clean and crisp. Plus, there are two inner card slots, which are excellent for stashing any stray forms you’re asked to hang onto at the airport or on the plane.

We love finding gifts that are unusual, thoughtful, and well vetted. See even more gift ideas we recommend .

Dorie Chevlen contributed reporting. This article was edited by Hannah Morrill and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guide

Samantha Schoech

Except for the time she gave a boyfriend her mother’s old toaster for Christmas, staff writer Samantha Schoech has a reputation as an excellent gift giver. She lives in San Francisco with two teens, two cats, a geriatric betta fish, and a bookseller husband. Her first book of short stories, My Mother’s Boyfriends, is coming out in 2024.

Mentioned above

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• We tested over a dozen travel plug adapters to find the best to bring on a trip overseas. Nothing can cover you everywhere, but check out these four good options. The Best Travel Plug Adapter  
• The Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag is a great bag for tech-carrying travelers to slide under an airplane seat. We also have options for other travelers. The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags  
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• These reading lights are bright and adjustable, so you can keep reading even if you share a bed with a light sleeper. The Best Reading Light  

Further reading

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

by Ivy Liscomb

You don't have to be a digital nomad to travel like one. Here are a few gadgets and accessories to make travel as painless as possible.

The Best Underwear for Travel

by Liz Thomas

We tested 37 pairs of travel underwear and found that ExOfficio’s Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief and Patagonia Women’s Active Hipster panties are the best around.

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

After testing seven travel strollers on various trips and excursions, we’re confident that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the one to get.

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

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The 55 Best Gifts for Travel Lovers in 2024

Peruse these practical and thoughtful gift ideas for every traveler on your list.

Travel + Leisure / Kristin Kempa

Shopping for your travel-loving friends and family can be tricky — after all, you’ll want to ensure you’re picking up something practical, but you also don’t want to gift them something they already have. It’s also worth considering that frequent travelers, especially digital nomads, tend to live a more minimalist life. This means practical gear will reign supreme over more frivolous items.

You’ll also want to take into account the kind of travel your favorite globetrotters or influencers are into. City explorers or luxury-leaning travelers, for example, probably won’t want the same gear as someone who spends their PTO hiking and trekking through the wilderness.

The following options were hand-picked by our team to suit every type of traveler and vacationer on your list. We’ve extensively researched (or personally tested) all of the following gifts to ensure your purchase will make a thoughtful and genuinely practical addition to your loved one’s travels. Here are the best gifts travelers will love — for all budgets and needs.

Paravel Passport Case

If your favorite travelers don’t already have a high-quality passport cover, you might want to consider the Paravel Cabana Passport Case. The elegant leather case can even be personalized with a hand-painted monogram or custom graphic to add another layer of elegance. We also like that this option has an abundance of pockets and card slots to make organization easier.

Boka Fresh on the Go

The Boka Fresh on the Go set was made for travelers who avoid checking a bag at all costs. It includes everything they’ll need to maintain good oral hygiene while on the go. The toothpaste is TSA-approved and the mouthwash — this is the best part — comes in the form of chewable tablets, so it won’t even count toward their liquid quota.

Jamaica Vibes

Jamaica Vibes is one of the latest in the Assouline coffee table book family — and possibly one of the most fun options to date. The stunning visual-first book will allow travelers to reminisce about any time spent in Jamaica (or dream about future trips) while the cover and spine of the book will add a dose of elegant and trendy style to coffee tables and bookshelves.

Contiki Tour

You can’t go wrong with the gift of travel itself. If you’re looking for a big-ticket experience gift for a younger traveler in your life, look no further than a Contiki tour. The pre-packaged trips will take them all over the world with like-minded young people and range from exploring the Garden Route in South Africa to road-tripping through the Balkans.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Sure, a travel adapter might not immediately come off as the most exciting gift. But any traveler will tell you just how valuable a reliable one really is. The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is the best travel adapter in our book; it works in more than 150 countries and it’s super compact and easy to pack thanks to the modular design. Plus, you can always pair it with a flashier item like a travel-themed phone case.

SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

The SereneLife Stand-up Paddle Board is an excellent option for anyone who wants to bring the spirit of resort life home. We tested out a variety of inflatable paddle boards and our team agrees that this is the best board on the market thanks to the lightweight, portable design and impressive stability in the water.

LARQ Bottle PureVis

The Larq Self-cleaning Water Bottle is a true game changer for all kinds of travelers. The smart bottle uses UV technology to not just disinfect itself but also to purify the water you’re drinking. This means the jetsetter you’re shopping for will be able to comfortably drink from most water sources without worrying about getting sick.

Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair

The Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair is simply the best beach chair around — and it makes a great gift for road-trippers and camping enthusiasts alike. It’s super easy to transport thanks to the folding backpack design, and is surprisingly comfortable due to the adjustable head pillow and elongated seat. We also like that the frame is rust-proof, meaning it’s perfect for using at the beach or in the rain.

Intelligent Change Inc. The Five Minute Journal

Sometimes, it can be hard to live in the moment and absorb all the magic that is travel — but a gratitude journal can help ensure your globetrotter stays centered on the go. The Five Minute Journal takes, as advertised, takes just five minutes of a traveler’s time; but jotting down their thoughts for those few minutes will help them remember and appreciate the most exciting parts of their day while traveling or at home.

Andobil Car Phone Holder Mount

The best car phone holder mount in our book is the Andobil Car Phone Holder Mount, and it’ll make a great gift for road trippers and car commuters. It’s super easy to install and, once set up, is incredibly stable and easy to use while on the go. There’s also space to plug in a charger so drivers won’t have to mess around with their phone just to get some juice.

Puffer Hug 418 Scarf

Think of the Puffer Hug 418 Scarf as a stylish and equally practical alternative to the fishing vest. Hear us out: this cozy accessory serves as a regular scarf but also has tons of pockets for things like a smartphone or passport. It’s great for wearing to the airport when you need to have documents at the ready but is equally sensible for wearing to explore a new city.

Slip Silk Skinny Scrunchies

The Slip Pure Silk 4-pack Skinny Scrunchies is a fail-safe gift for travelers who want to care for their hair while they're away. The silk design is gentle on the hair and is designed to not pull or cause breakage, even with regular use. We also really like the elegant patterns and colors of the scrunchies, which can easily double as cute arm candy among a stack of bracelets.

Vinarmour Travel Wine Carrier

Wine-loving travelers will flip for the Vinarmour Travel Wine Carrier. This stunning carrier is designed to transport a bottle of wine without any risk of breakage. It features sufficient padding to keep the bottle safe while in transit, but it’s also made from leak-proof material — so even if the bottle was already damaged and cracks while in cargo, it won’t spill on the rest of your luggage.

The Harmonist Travel Coffret

The Harmonist Travel Coffret is a game-changer when it comes to feeling fresh and relaxed in transit. The set of three heavily-concentrated perfumes were designed to foster a sense of calmness and relaxation thanks to the various notes, including patchouli, pomelo, Bulgarian rose, and vanilla. It also comes with a striking travel case to keep the vials safe in transit.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

The Twelve South AirFly Pro is a T+L editor favorite and such an easy way to upgrade the economy experience. This handy little device allows travelers to use their own Bluetooth headphones or earbuds with the inflight entertainment system rather than having to use the sub-par freebies provided by the airline. The AirFly is super easy to use as well — all you have to do is plug it into the headphone jack on the plane and pair it with your headphones.

Four Seasons Velvet Slippers

There’s something inherently luxurious about slipping into a pair of hotel slippers upon check in — and the Four Seasons Velvet Slippers amplify that feeling and bring it home. These stunning slippers are made in Italy from sleek velvet and cotton with the Four Seasons logo embroidered on the top. The elastic back and rubber sole make them appropriate for both indoor and outdoor use.

Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

Here’s one for the solo women travelers on your list. The She's Birdie Personal Safety Alarm is designed to fit incognito in her handbag or pocket — but if she finds herself in any kind of trouble, it’s easy to grab and sound the alarm to draw attention and deter an attack. All she has to do is pull off the top tab to activate the 130-decibel siren and flashing strobe light.

Dagne Dover Tech Organizer

Nobody thinks they need a tech organizer while traveling, but when you take into account all the cables and adapters required to make international travel smooth, having a specific spot to keep everything untangled is major. The Dagne Dover Arlo Tech Organizer is small enough to pop into a carry-on but has plenty of interior space to store everything a traveler needs.

Lindsay Albanese Toptote Leather Hat Holder

Traveling with a cute hat seems like a great idea, but in practice it can be a bit of a pain. The Lindsay Albanese Toptote Leather Hat Holder allows travelers to bring along a wide-brim hat without having to wear it the entire commute or risking it getting crushed in a suitcase. The clip attaches to the brim of a hat and the built-in carabiner lets you pop it onto a handbag or carry-on for a hands-free solution.

Diptyque Travel Cleansing & Moisturizing Set

This cleansing and moisturizing set will be a welcome addition to any routine whether at home or on the go. The decadent set includes both rinse-free and regular hand wash as well as a moisturizing hand lotion — all of which smell just like your favorite luxury hotel bath products. We also like that this option comes with a cute carrying case that makes it easy to store the items in a handbag or carry-on.

Vasco V4 Language Translator Device

World travelers always have a few favorite travel products they swear by. For traveling abroad, the Vasco V4 Language Translator Device makes the experience so much easier — not just on the traveler but on the locals as well. This genius device provides instant voice translation in 108 languages and comes with free lifetime internet to ensure it’ll always be functional anywhere in the world. The instant translations mean your traveling pal can have real-time conversations with people across the globe, even if there’s no common spoken language.

Pokoloko Harem Towel

The Pokoloko Harem Towel is handcrafted using 100 percent Turkish cotton by artisans in Turkey — and it’s the perfect beach bag essential. It’s very lightweight and rolls down much smaller than the average towel. However, it’s also incredibly absorbent and quick-drying, so travelers can pop it back into their beach bag at the end of the day without worrying about lugging home a soggy towel.

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

It’s called the Everywhere Belt Bag for a reason! This Lululemon staple has quickly become a cult classic for travelers (it has quite literally been everywhere this year). The adjustable belt bag is super convenient for everything from hiking to exploring cities hands-free, and the durable nylon material means you won’t have to worry about potential spillage or getting stuck in the rain (it’ll wipe clean with a bit of water).

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Mesh Bag

Regular travelers know the importance of throwing a decent-sized tote into their luggage. After all, you never know when you’ll need the extra bit of space while on the road. The Longchamp Le Pliage Filet L Mesh Bag offers a sophisticated take on the humble mesh tote complete with a snap closure and both a top handle and shoulder strap for added versatility.

Conair Travel Garment Dual Voltage Steamer

The Conair Power Steam Handheld Travel Garment Steamer makes looking and feeling put together on the road a snap. The compact steamer is small enough to slip into a carry-on bag and pull out as needed while traveling. It boasts a 35-second heat-up time so the traveler in your life can power away wrinkles and creases in no time at all.

YETI Roadie 24 Cooler

The Yeti Roadie 24 Hard Cooler will be well received by the road trip warriors and beach bums on your list. Not only is it super aesthetically pleasing, but it can also actually fit an incredible amount in such a compact space — we’re talking up to 33 cans, 26 pounds of ice, and even full-sized bottles of wine.

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs

You don’t quite realize how high-quality the Loop Quiet earplugs are until you really need them. The surprisingly stylish earplugs were designed to be comfortable while sleeping and will serve as a major blessing the next time your gift recipient has been put in a hotel room next to a crying baby or bachelorette party.

Paravel Mini Fold-up Backpack

The Paravel Mini Fold-Up Backpack earned the top spot in our books as the best mini backpack of 2024 , and it’s easy to see why. It’s easy to fit all the essentials — think a tablet, a wallet, sunscreen, and shoes — but it also folds down into the size of a wallet when not in use, which makes it great for tucking into a carry-on bag in case of emergencies. We also love that this bag has the option to be monogrammed, making your gift all the more thoughtful.

Béis The Cosmetic Case

We love Béis for its cheeky and innovative take on travel accessories — and the Cosmetic Case in particular is one of our top picks of the year for best makeup cases . We love that this option is highly durable but still elegant in design and also has a generous-sized built-in mirror that makes it easy to do makeup or skincare while on the go. It’s also worth noting that this case is available in eight different colorways, so you can choose one that’ll best suit their specific style.

Paravel Aviator Carry-on Plus

If the traveler on your list is in need of a new carry-on, you’ll want to consider the Paravel Aviator Carry-on Plus. This innovative carry-on bag earned top marks in our books as the best piece of luxury luggage thanks to its super sturdy build and variety of organization options within the luggage. It’s also worth noting that all carriers are ethically produced — which makes this a great gift for conscious travelers as well.

Baggu Nylon Crescent Bag

We love a crossbody bag for travel — and the Baggu Nylon Crest Bag is definitely the top crossbody bag of the year in our books. We love just how versatile this bag is and how easily it can be packed into a suitcase without adding any bulk or weight. The crossbody bag is also highly durable and even machine washable, which is a huge perk for travelers who don’t want to have to baby their accessories while on the go.

Awake Caffeinated Chocolate Energy Bar

Frequent flyers know the perils of trying to get a good cup of coffee on an airplane or in an airport — which is why the Awake Caffeinated Chocolate Energy Bites are such a game changer for caffeine-loving travelers. The tasty chocolate bites have the caffeine equivalent of half a cup of coffee, and also offer a sweet sugar kick that’ll help them get through everything from red-eye flights to long layovers.

Nitecore MT21C Flashlight

You might not immediately think of a flashlight as a standout gift for a traveler — but a rechargeable flashlight is a packing essential for travelers who do any kind of adventure or outdoor traveling. The Nitecore MT21C Flashlight is one T+L editors swear by thanks to its compact size, impressive brightness, and longevity (it has a maximum output of 1000 lumens and a peak beam distance of 201 yards). It’s also adjustable by 90 degrees which can be highly practical for getting into tight spaces.

Moon Dissolving Whitening Strips

There’s something about indulging in a self-care routine while flying that can make an economy seat feel like you’re sitting in first class — and what could be more luxurious than whitening your teeth while on the go? The MOON Teeth Whitening Strips were designed to be used while traveling, the strips work the same as your classic Crest variety, but all you have to do is stick them on and wait for them to dissolve — no sink or rinsing required.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet

Sure — most airplanes have built-in in-flight entertainment, but boy does it suck when you board a flight only to realize there’s no screen on the seat back. The Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet will let them download all their favorite shows and movies to watch on the flight. It’s also great for reading e-books or checking into social media while in transit.

Aer Travel Weekender

The Aer Travel Weekender is our favorite carry-on duffel bag right now thanks to its versatility and durable design. We like that this bag can easily be used as a top-handle tote, but that it also has a built-in strap that makes it easy to use as a duffel bag while on the go. It’s worth noting that the bag also has a 16-inch padded laptop sleeve, which means they’ll be able to keep their laptop or tablet safe and secure while traveling.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

A portable speaker makes a great addition to any traveler’s packing list. Not only does it ensure the vibes will be good no matter where they find themselves, it’s also a great tool for playing white noise and making it easier to fall asleep in unfamiliar places. We highly recommend the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3; this one is super easy to connect to any phone and is both waterproof and dustproof — so they won’t have to be precious with it while traveling.

nCamp Café Portable Coffee Maker

If you’ve got a coffee lover on your list, the nCamp Café Portable Coffee Maker is going to be a game changer in terms of the quality of their morning joe. This compact coffee maker is especially great to bring on camping trips because it crafts espresso-style coffee without any power source. The only thing they’ll need is a hot water source and they’ll have cafe-quality brew wherever they go (which, let’s be honest, will also save them a ton of money on morning coffee).

Nintendo Switch

Travel can be endlessly thrilling and entertaining — but there’s a lot of downtime that comes with it as well. A Nintendo Switch is going to make a great gift for the gamers on your list (or those traveling with little ones). The beauty of the Switch is that they’ll be able to use it as a handheld to pass the time at airports or train stations, but it can also be set up television-style to play party games at the hotel room or Airbnb.

Infinity Pillow Travel Pillow

Unless you’re lucky enough to get a miraculous upgrade to business class, sleeping on a plane can be a struggle. That’s where the Infinity Pillow Travel Pillow comes in. This innovative pillow was designed with neck support and can be adapted to work whether they’re in the window, aisle, or even the middle seat.  It’s also temperature regulating, so it won’t make them sweaty mid-flight, and doubles as an eye mask.

Call You When I Land: A Memoir

Travel writer and author Nikki Vargas spares no detail in her evocative memoir Call You When I Land , which follows Vargas as she relentlessly pursues her dream career, and in turn, dream lifestyle. The juicy travelogue is ideal for fans of Eat Pray Love or What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding . Oh — and there’s a love story and murder mystery baked into it as well. Can you say beach read?

Nimble Champ Portable Charger

It doesn’t matter how streamlined their travel is — every traveler struggles with having juice for all their devices while on the go. Sometimes it’s a lack of adequate adapters, and sometimes it’s long excursions with no charging outlet in sight. Either way, a decent portable charger just makes things easier. We love the Nimble Champ Portable Charger in particular. It’s compact and durable, but it’s also eco-friendly having been crafted in part from recycled water bottles.

Slip Lovely Lashes Contour Sleep Mask

Traveling without a sleep mask sucks — especially if you’re sensitive to light or plan to sleep on the plane. The Slip Lovely Lashes Contour Sleep Mask in particular is an awesome gift and great alternative to the classic eye mask model. It’s crafted from real silk, so it won’t pull or mess up their hair. It also has a contoured eye area so it won’t squish their eyes or lashes, even if they use it all night long.

Away The Insider Packing Cubes

Away The Insider Packing Cubes are a game changer for travelers who want to pack light and travelers who like to pack more than they might need. For starers, these packing cubes allow them to organize their clothing by categories, which allows them to have a better grasp on exactly what they have. The cubes also gently compress clothing which makes it easy to fit everything into a carry-on or smaller-sized suitcase as needed.

Skyborne iTravel Folio 4.0

Staying organized and on the ball on travel days makes the whole experience go much smoother — and that’s why we love the Skyborne iTravel Folio 4.0. This sleek travel wallet is designed to fit all their travel documents (including passport, smartphone, AirPods, and more) in one stylish zippered wallet. It also has built-in charging capabilities to keep their electronics juiced up, no matter where they are.

Rewined Bordeaux Candle

If they’re always waxing poetic about their trip to wine country, why not gift them an olfactory memory of their time? The Bordeaux Candle by Rewined comes as an homage to the French countryside with notes of Maritime Pine, Crushed Herbs, and Cypress that are designed to transport them right back to the vineyards of Bordeaux. Rewined’s candles are also beautifully made and will look just as good as they smell on a coffee table or kitchen counter.

Pocket Tripod Universal Kit

Let’s be honest: no matter how cool we think we are, everyone wants to get some good photos to share on social media (or to look back on) while traveling. The Pocket Tripod Universal Kit is a super compact and discreet alternative to the larger tripods on the market. It’s about the size of a credit card and is easy to pop onto a smartphone for an instant tripod, wherever they find themselves.

Foreo Luna Mini 2 Facial Cleansing Brush

Traveling can wreak some serious havoc on the skin — which is why skincare-loving travelers (and really anyone who likes a clean face!) will flip for the FOREO LUNA Mini. This innovative skincare tool uses T-sonic pulsations to clean the skin, brushing away any traces of makeup, dirt, or acne-causing bacteria that might be lurking on their face after a long flight or day of exploration.

Audible Membership

If you’re shopping for a traveler who is big on podcasts or listening to audio books while on the go, a subscription to Audible is pretty much a no-brainer. This subscription will get them one free audiobook per month and allow them to listen to all kinds of different books at their own pace while traveling. It’s also a great alternative to packing various books or having to remember an e-reader; all their audiobooks will be accessible right on their smartphone or tablet!

The Essential Guide to Turkish Wine

The Essential Guide to Turkish Wine by wine writer and author Andrea Lemieux is the only English-language anthology you’ll find sharing the ins and outs of Turkish wine. Turkey is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, and Lemieux’s comprehensive guide will inspire them to book a trip to the wine trail of Turkey thanks to her captivating (and comprehensive) descriptions and gorgeous illustrations and visuals to match.

Riemot Luggage Cup Holder

It would be nice to have another set of hands when rolling through the airport, wouldn’t it? Well, that’s where the Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder comes in. This handy attachment can fit onto any rolling suitcase or carry-on. It not only accommodates a beverage, but also easily fits a wallet or passport and most smartphones. There’s nothing better than being hands-free without having to dig through a handbag or backpack to get out the essentials.

BasicConcepts Airplane Foot Hammock

Sure — it might look a little cheesy at first glance… but they will be incredibly grateful for this whimsical gift when they’re on hour five of their next red-eye flight. The Basic Concepts Airplane Foot Hammock attaches underneath the tray table, providing them with instant relief of aches and pains that might crop up after sitting upright for hours on end. It can adjust to three different positions as well, so they’ll be able to continue to change their position throughout the flight for added comfort.

Steamline Luggage The Palm Cosmetics Set

Frequent flyers are always on the hunt for streamlined packing accessories — and this cosmetics set from Steamline Luggage is a standout option. It ranks number one in our best travel pouch of 2024 thanks to its charming tropical-inspired prints and the fact that the pouches are crafted from recycled water bottles. The pouches can easily fit inside of one another when not in use and lay flat, which makes them easy to pack and store.

1,000 Places to See Before You Die

1,000 Places to See Before You Die is one of our favorite travel-focused reference books. The anthology is a veritable bucket list that is just as good for armchair travel as it is for reference when planning a trip. We also love flipping through this book to reflect on all the places we’ve been — the intriguing descriptions and photography evoke memories while also seeing even the most popular tourist destinations and monuments in a refreshing new light.

Native Union Universal Sling

The Native Union Universal Sling is designed to pop onto smartphones like a phone case — but it comes with a built-in strap that allows travelers to wear their phone like a crossbody bag or around their neck like a lanyard. It’s available in a variety of colorways and is made from recycled material for a more sustainable approach. It’s perfect for travel as it’s more secure than throwing a phone in a pocket or bag as well.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kaitlyn McInnis is a lifestyle editor-turned-freelance travel writer for T+L. She started her career as a gift guide editor and has a long-standing passion for helping others find the absolute best gifts (at great prices) for everyone in their life.

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Watch CBS News

Best travel gift ideas for Christmas 2023, according to actual frequent travelers

By Kaylyn McKenna

Edited By Lily Rose

Updated on: December 15, 2023 / 3:09 PM EST / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Not sure what to buy for the travel lover on your holiday list? Don't worry. We've surveyed the frequent travelers and shopping experts at CBS Essentials to find tons of travel gift ideas. Shop the best travel gifts for women , best travel gifts for men  and the best travel gift ideas for anyone with a healthy sense of wanderlust.

From inflatable travel pillows that will let them snooze in total comfort to inflight entertainment options and must-have travel bags , there are plenty of gift ideas for travelers to shop now. 

Keep reading to explore our top gifts for travel lovers, according to frequent travelers. 

Spanx AirEssentials half-zip

This cozy gift is perfect for travel enthusiasts and athleisure lovers. The half-zip pullover is made with a soft, lightweight fabric and offers a cozy oversized fit for easy layering. 

CBS Essentials editorial director Leslie Gornstein shared that she saw someone wearing the AirEssentials top and matching lounge pants at the airport and immediately wanted a set for herself. Even Oprah Winfrey is a fan .

"Wow. Wow. Wow," Winfrey says. "May I tell you I got this set last year? I wore it in a photo shoot for 'O' and never looked back. This is the most comfortable fabric -- now in new sophisticated colors."

Inflatable Travel Air Pillow

Traditional travel pillows usually just go around your neck for a bit of added support, but this one takes things to the next level, making it an innovative gift idea for travelers.

"Get a real travel pillow," Gornstein says. "Not the kind that they sell at the airport. Not the kind that goes viral on social. The kind that works. I do not sleep upright with my head lolling to one side and do not know anyone else who does. I sleep like a person, which means I need a travel pillow that lets me lean forward and mimic sleeping on my side or stomach."

This pillow is $21, reduced from $25.

Herschel classic backpack

Gift the perfect personal item for air travel with this Herschel backpack.

"I used to be one of those people who needed to look super cute with a trendy over-the-shoulder carry-on bag," Gornstein says. "Then I got real. Get a super-cute backpack and enjoy the magic of hands-free navigation through security and airports and all this."

This 4-star-rated backpack is currently $38, reduced from $55. That's 31% off. 

It comes in six colors and prints and in three different sizes.

Nintendo Switch OLED Mario Kart 8 bundle

For the gamer  who loves to travel, CBS Essentials managing editor Fox Van Allen recommends this Nintendo Switch bundle. 

"When I'm not snoozing on the plane, I pull out my Nintendo Switch to pass the time during those long cross-country flights," Van Allen says. "The Nintendo Switch OLED edition has an improved and brighter screen, which will make all the latest games look extra sharp. This version comes bundled with the popular game Mario Kart 8, making it perfect for gifting."

This bundle, a $410 value, is currently on sale at Walmart for $348 this holiday season.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder

If the traveling gamer in your life already has a Nintendo Switch, consider gifting them a game instead. 

This new release is an excellent choice (and if you're not convinced, you can read our full review of the game ).

"This new release is easily the best 2D Super Mario Bros. game in decades," Van Allen says. "It features all your favorite characters and mechanics from the franchise, including new power ups (Elephant Mario!) and new secrets. Especially fun is the addition of Wonder Flowers, all of which have unique game-changing effects."

Monos Metro crossbody bag

The Monos Metro crossbody is a great compact option for carrying your daily essentials while traveling. 

It offers plenty of storage space and hands-free carrying. 

For me, CBS Essentials writer Kaylyn McKenna, a good cross-body day bag is a travel must-have. I like something light that can hold the basics like my phone, cards and hotel key while I go sightseeing. 

This unisex Monos crossbody makes a great travel gift for men or women.

Reading is a great way to pass the time during a flight or a relaxing activity to enjoy while lounging by the hotel pool or at the beach.  

Gornstein recommends a Kindle as one of the best gifts for travelers as the e-reader is lightweight, easy to add books to and can be used at any point in the flight.

Find this Kindle in two colors and in ad-supported or non-ad-supported versions. It comes with three months of Kindle Unlimited for free.

Related content from CBS Essentials 

• The absolute best Christmas tech gifts for someone who has everything and loves gadgets
• The best White Elephant gift ideas for Christmas 2023 no matter your budget
• None of these 2023 Christmas gift picks are more than $100
• Best Christmas gifts for the dad who wants nothing
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Kaylyn McKenna is an expert on deals, travel, luggage, home and more for CBS Essentials. When she's not scouring the internet for the best deals on new luggage or robot vacuums, she spends time with her goldendoodle, Harley,

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20 Best Travel Gifts for Your Favorite Jetsetter

Any of these fun, unique and useful picks would be perfect for their next adventure.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Chances are you have one family member or person in your circle who is constantly traveling, whether it's for business or pleasure. If you happen to be searching for the perfect gift for this jet-setter in your life, you might not even know where to begin. That's why we've combed the internet to bring you the best travel gifts we could find, no matter the destination.

When browsing our list, think about how frequently they travel and what kind of gift would be the most meaningful to them . If they spend countless hours on planes, something to help them sleep comfortably might just be the ticket. A list of exactly what to pack would be helpful for those absent-minded types and you can't go wrong with a cuddly shrug that can be worn on and off the plane.

The best part is that most of these gifts have been vetted and tested by experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute as well as one of our senior editors. What's more, some picks have also won GH Family Travel Awards , so you can rest assured that what you're buying is top-notch. With any of these no-fail picks, they'll be tempted to book a stay at a top-rated resort or a unique Airbnb .

Bluetooth Sleep Headphones

Over 17,000 Amazon reviewers love these wireless sleep headphones, which are perfect for long plane rides. They have bluetooth technology and they're even washable.

Baggu Packable Sun Hat

Her head will be protected wherever she goes with this packable sun hat. Made of cotton, the machine-washable design will fit heads up to 23 1/2 inches around.

Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

Measuring one inch by four inches, this bluetooth wireless audio transmitter is too good to pass up. It boasts a battery life of 25-plus hours and it can even power up your phone mid-flight if airplane mode isn't cutting it.

Airplane Phone Holder Mount

They can watch all their favorite streaming services in-flight with this phone holder mount. It's compatible with the latest iPhones and most Samsung devices, and rotates a full 360-degrees to help them watch from any angle.

Portable Neck Fan

Plane air can get, well, stuffy, and this portable silicone neck fan is sure to keep the air flowing. While it looks like headphones, it actually has 78 air holes and will run a full four to 16 hours, depending on which speed is used.

Women's Everyday Compression Socks

While these Bombas might seem a little pricey for compression socks, hear us out. They have excellent arch support and a medium level of pressure to soothe their sore legs and feet during long days of exploring.

RELATED: 8 Best Compression Socks for Women

Travel Baby Bottle Warmer

A Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards winner, this bottle warmer is perfect for parents traveling with young children. It'll store hot water when they travel and the removable lid is also a container — it just has to be warmed up.

Fold-Up Backpack

There's nothing more convenient than a backpack that will fold up when you travel, right? This water-resistant nylon style is perfect for day trips or as a carry-on. It has enough room to hold clothing, their essentials and a 15-inch laptop.

Carry On Suitcase

This hard-shell carry on suitcase is perfect for short business trips. It comes in the 20-inch carry on size, complete with a TSA double lock to keep their belongings safe during travel.

Expanded Adventure First Aid Kit

While it might seem like a boring gift, this first aid kit will be really helpful during their trips. It comes with all the basics, band-aids, tape, ibuprofen, ointments and more to fix any boo-boos they might encounter while they're on the move.

Travel Blanket

Keep her cozy during all of her travels with this snuggly blanket. Made of soft microplush, the included carrying case can even be used as a pillow. There's also a clip in case they'd like to carry it on their backpack.

Travel Cable Organizer

Traveling can require, well, a lot of cords to keep your devices powered up. Keep them organized with this canvas and mesh carrying case, which features five pockets to hold all of their essentials.

Packing Cubes

If they tend to overpack, this is the gift for them. These handy, water-resistant cubes come in a set of five, and have small and large compartments for easy packing and storage.

RELATED: The Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Box

She'll keep her jewelry safe wherever she goes with this plush velvet box, available in nine colors. It can hold rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces and more!

Spanx AirEssentials Cocoon

Thanks to this lightweight shrug, she can travel in style. Along with its forgiving length, it features four-way stretch fabric and pockets for maximum comfort. One of our senior editors tried it and loves it. Consider the matching wide leg pants , too!

"Adventure Awaits" Cosmetics Bag

Perfect for all her travels, this cosmetics bag is too good to pass up. Made of cotton burlap, it'll even fit liquids that'll make it past TSA lines.

Pack This! Pad Packing List

Remembering to pack everything you need can be so hard. Make it easier with these fun packing pads that'll let them cross everything off their list, one by one.

Allbirds Women's Tree Runners

These super lightweight sneakers were a GH Family Travel Awards winner for good reason. Our testers noted that they're basic enough to match most outfits and can be washed multiple times without any damage.

Under Seat Carry On Bag

A great carry-on bag is important, but one that'll fit right under their seat is even better. This polyester number rolls, has a side USB port, an open side pocket and will accommodate laptop sizes up to 12 1/2 inches.

Travel Size Scratchable World Map

They can keep track of all their adventures with this world eye-catching map. They'll get a kick out of scratching off every place they've visited. The best part? It's even travel-sized so they can take it everywhere.

Cailey Lindberg (she/her) is a writer and editor with over a decade of experience covering products, lifestyle, entertainment and food. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, she was a staff writer at USA Today's shopping network, Reviewed.com.  

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The 50 Best Gifts for Travelers, According to Travel Experts

Afar editors and contributors weigh in on the best travel gifts to give this holiday season, including noise-canceling headphones for kids, our go-to travel shoes, and the cozy coat we’re tempted to splurge on..

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Gifts like these Danish Glerups slippers will take travel lovers from home to hotel and back again.

Courtesy of Glerups

The gift all travelers want is a first-class airplane ticket somewhere fabulous. But if that isn’t in your budget, the next best thing is to give them something that makes their voyages easier or a little more luxurious—especially if they’re flying in economy. We’ve compiled this list of 50 gifts for travelers recommended by our own editors and contributors. In it, you’ll find some of the best travel products we’ve tried and tested over the years, plus a few new items we’re excited to share from our favorite brands.

Travel tech and accessories

The Purist Maker Mug comes in a variety of colors, including the dark blue “Drift” seen here.

Courtesy of Purist

1. Purist 10-Oz. Maker Mug

Buy now: $38, puristcollective.com ; rei.com

Pairing a reusable coffee mug with a bag of beans from a local coffee shop is the best way to encourage travelers to go eco-friendly on the road. Though this looks like a stainless steel bottle, the Purist Maker Mug is actually lined with an ultra-thin layer of nonporous glass so you can switch between coffee and water—heck, even wine—without the lingering scent of the previous beverage. This 10-ounce model comes with a leakproof scope top designed for hot coffee; it allows for sipping from any side. Purist also sells basic screw-top caps with carrying loops as well as flip-tops , for those who will also use this bottle for cold drinks.

The Nori Press is dual voltage, so you can use it in the United States and abroad without packing an extra voltage converter.

Courtesy of Nori

2. The Nori Press Steam Iron

Buy now: $120, nori.com

Hotel irons aren’t that reliable and nobody likes struggling with an ironing board anyways. This travel press, which was one of Oprah’s Favorite Things in 2022, weighs just 1.4 pounds and is only 14 inches long, so you won’t mind packing it. Did we mention it steams, too?

No need to pack an extra pair of corded headphones just for your flight.

Courtesy of Twelve South

3. Twelve South AirFly Pro

Buy now: $55, twelvesouth.com ; amazon.com

It’s possible to use wireless headphones to watch movies on in-seat screens on airplanes with the Twelve South AirFly Pro wireless transmitter. It plugs into the headphone jack in airplane seats and sends audio signals via Bluetooth to up to two pairs of headphones. (It also works as an AUX IN adapter in a rental car.) It has a 25-hour battery life and is roughly the size of a matchbox.

The Trtl Travel Pillow folds up neatly and weighs only half a pound.

Courtesy of Trtl

4. Trtl Travel Pillow

Buy now: $50, trtltravel.com ; $60, amazon.com

Any qualms about looking silly instantly disappear as soon as you use this ergonomically designed travel pillow (which keeps your head from bobbing around). “It feels a little strange putting it on the first time and sort of looks like a neck brace,” said Rosalie Tinelli, AFAR’s former senior audience development manager , in her review of the Trtl . “But who cares how it looks when you’re getting peaceful sleep on an airplane and waking up with zero neck stiffness?”

It’s time to ditch that plastic iced coffee cup.

Courtesy of Yeti

5. Yeti Rambler Straw Mug

Buy now: from $38, yeti.com

Drinking water out of a regular screw cap bottle while driving is not only frustrating—it’s dangerous. Yeti’s Rambler Straw Mug is designed to fit into all cup holders and comes with a reusable straw lid so you can easily take a swig without taking both hands off the wheel. Available in a 25-ounce or extra-large 35-ounce style, this travel mug is also great for iced coffee runs.

Secure any type of tote, backpack, or handbag to your suitcase handle with this travel belt that doubles as a sling bag.

Courtesy of Cincha

6. Cincha Travel Belt Bag

Buy now: $60, cinchatravel.com

These dual-purpose belt bags can be worn as a sling to carry small essentials like passports and keys, or can be used to secure personal items to a suitcase handle so they don’t slide off while maneuvering through the airport. Simply slip the elastic loop of the belt bag over the handle of your carry-on and snap its buckle around the front of your personal item. The strap is adjustable to 49 inches. For every belt sold, Cincha donates 100 airline miles to Miles4Migrants to help reconnect migrant families.

These are also great for blocking out noise at loud hotels.

Courtesy of SleepPhones

7. SleepPhones Bluetooth Sleep Headphones

Buy now: $100, sleepphones.com ; amazon.com

Sleeping on an airplane is tough—and virtually impossible when wearing a neck pillow and larger over-the-ear headphones at the same time. That’s why every traveler needs a pair of sleep headphones. Essentially a soft fleece headband with ultra-slim headphones inserted inside, this travel accessory allows you to sleep with your head flat against a pillow. While there are several brands that make a similar cord-free design, SleepPhones makes the most comfortable and highest-quality pair—but for a price. Meanwhile, this $20 pair on Amazon is budget-friendly but don’t expect too much from its sound quality.

Therabody just released a new version of its Theragun Mini that’s lighter and smaller.

Courtesy of Therabody

8. Therabody Theragun Mini

Buy now: $199, therabody.com

After a red-eye flight, it wouldn’t be surprising if your neck and shoulders were knotted and sore. This portable massage gun is small—it weighs one pound and can fit easily into a purse or backpack. But it packs a punch, powerfully helping loosen tight muscles.

Packing essentials

These packing cubes are sold in sets of two, including one medium and one small.

Courtesy of Thule

9. Thule Compression Packing Cubes

Buy now: $45 for two, thule.com ; rei.com

Once you try packing cubes , you’ll be hard-pressed to go back. Some of our favorites are Thule’s Compression Packing Cubes, which are made with Bluesign-approved ripstop nylon that is water-repellent, ultra-durable, and manufactured with minimal impact on the environment. A set of double YKK zippers allows you to close the cube and then zip it even tighter to eliminate extra air and reduce bulk.

This pouch set comes in all sorts of fun and colorful patterns.

Courtesy of Baggu

10. Baggu Go Pouch Set

Buy now: $40, baggu.com

Baggu’s Go Pouch Set includes three all-purpose pouches that are essential for keeping your bags organized. The small one is perfect for stashing your keys, Airpods, and lip balm, while the medium doubles as a toiletry bag. The large is big enough to use as a packing cube for clothes. New patterns are released frequently—the set with clouds on it is particularly fun for frequent fliers.

These TSA-approved reusable toiletry bottles come with built-in labels so you never confuse body lotion for conditioner.

Photo by Bailey Rebecca Roberts

11. Ries Essential Travel Bottles

Buy now: from $15, ries-ries.com

Cut back on plastic waste and start decanting liquid toiletries into reusable travel-size containers like the 1.7-ounce or 3.4-ounce bottles from Ries, a Black woman-owned brand. AFAR’s newsletter editor Maliah West recommends the brand’s Mini Duo Starter Set , which comes with a pair of 1.7-ounce bottles that are equipped with a locking system to ensure a spill-free experience.

A mini version of this vanity case is also available for $75.

Courtesy of Paravel

12. Paravel Cabana See-All Vanity Case

Buy now: $95, tourparavel.com

Crafted from two recycled water bottles per bag, with leather details ecocertified by the Leather Working Group, Paravel’s vanity case is spacious enough to hold all of your travel toiletries and has see-through side panels for keeping its contents easily visible.

Tangled necklaces are now a thing of the past.

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

13. Dagne Dover Frankie Jewelry Case

Buy now: from $55, dagnedover.com

Know someone who travels with a tangled wad of necklaces? Dagne Dover’s Frankie Jewelry Case makes a smart gift (and subtle hint) to solve this particular packing problem. It comes in two sizes and three colors, with room for up to three necklaces, eight rings, four pairs of earrings, and more.

Keep your shoes separate from your clothes inside your suitcase with a special packing cube.

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

14. Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Multi-Shoe Cube

Buy now: $25, eaglecreek.com

The easiest way to get your loved ones to stop packing dirty shoes in the same bag as their clean clothes is to give them packing cubes designed specifically for footwear. This shoe bag from Eagle Creek is made with a durable material made from recycled polyester. It’s designed to fit multiple pairs of sandals, sneakers, and even boots up to men’s size 13.

>> Find more clever travel gift ideas under $100

Travel bags and luggage

The Waverley 2 hip belt, seen here in cognac-colored cactus leather.

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

15. Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Convertible Bag

Buy now: from $126 (was $210), loandsons.com

The fanny pack —updated with sleeker style and even some high-tech materials—is back, according to AFAR contributor Courtney Holden . Thanks in part to its two-part adjustable strap, the Waverley 2 can be worn not only as a casual belt bag, but also as a cross-body bag, gala-ready wristlet, and shoulder bag. Available in two sizes—8 inches x 5.6 inches and 8.3 inches x 5.9 inches—the bag features an interior zip pocket for can’t-lose items, a handy slip pocket for little must-haves, and an exterior card slot perfect for stashing a hotel key. It comes in textured Saffiano leather, buttery smooth Napa leather, and a durable, scratch-resistant vegan leather made from nopal cactus.

The Virginia Beach Tote by North End Bag Company is made in a beach town, but would look good on the streets of New York, too.

Courtesy of North End Bags

16. North End Bag Company Virginia Beach Tote

Buy now: $185, northendbagcompany.com

The most versatile beach bags serve double-duty as both seaside companions and trusty personal items during flights to warm-weather destinations. Lovingly hand-crafted in a shop just four blocks from the Virginia Beach oceanfront, North End Bag Company’s signature Virginia Beach Tote is one great option, reports Holden. It pairs a handsome, water-resistant, waxed canvas exterior with leather straps to create an aesthetic that’s rugged enough for everyday use but also refined and ready for first class. The sleek slip pockets ringing the exterior could house flip flops or plane snacks, while additional internal compartments offer storage for goggles or electronics.

This packable bag folds down to the size of a book.

17. Paravel Fold-Up Bag

Buy now: $75, tourparavel.com

Paravel’s ultra-light duffel bag zips down into a small pouch and packs into big luggage for any space-challenged traveler’s gotta-have-it souvenir emergencies. It’s also AFAR editor at large Laura Dannen Redman ’s go-to weekend bag. She calls it the “ Trojan horse of weekend bags ” since it holds so much more inside than you’d expect. She can easily fit two pairs of shoes, two toiletry bags, and three days of winter clothing in it. An added bonus: The sustainable nylon material is made from 22 recycled plastic water bottles.

This totepack can be worn as a backpack or a tote bag.

Courtesy of Peak Design

18. Peak Design Everyday Totepack

Buy now: $180, peakdesign.com

The name says it all: This 20-liter pack is designed for everyday use whether you’re carrying it like a tote on your daily commute or pulling out its backpack straps during your next hike. The outside is made with a recycled nylon canvas shell that can withstand rainstorms, so you can pack your laptop, tablet, and cameras in here with peace of mind. Available in all-black and ivory with brown leather details, it’s much more chic than other laptop backpacks out there.

The Freefly16 packable backpack stuffs into a tiny carry sack, shown here.

Courtesy of Matador

19. Matador Freefly16 Packable Backpack

Buy now: $80, matadorup.com

Matador’s Freefly16 Packable Backpack is designed to perform in wet conditions (it’s water-resistant, not waterproof) and weighs less than half a pound. A rarity for backpacks of this size and weight, it comes with a thin hip strap for better distributing weight, two water bottle cages (one on each side), and a spacious external pocket for stashing anything you need to reach quickly. It packs down into its own dedicated stuff sack, so you can easily toss it into your luggage and have a quality hiking or walking-about-town daypack on hand when you arrive at your destination. “Overall, I love this bag’s packability, weight, and additional features like the hip strap,” says Jessie Beck, AFAR’s associate director of SEO & Video. “I’ve used it on at least a dozen trips since getting it, and it’s proven to be durable and sturdy.”

A leather weekender that will last for years to come.

Courtesy of Leatherology

20. Leatherology Harwood Weekender

Buy now: $375, leatherology.com

Anyone in the market for a new overnight bag or personal item will love the Harwood Weekender by AAPI-owned Leatherology. This small leather duffel features pockets galore, smart magnetic clasps, and three different styles of monogramming. It also has a trolley sleeve to slide over your carry-on handle so it doesn’t fall off your luggage.

The Longchamp x Robert Indiana collection features the artist’s iconic Love image.

Courtesy of Morgan Art Foundation. Licensed by Artestar, New York

21. Longchamp x Robert Indiana Travel Bag

Buy now: $430, longchamp.com

Wear your heart on your, er, weekend bag. French leather goods company Longchamp just released a tribute to pop artist Robert Indiana with a limited edition collection of canvas totes and handbags featuring his iconic “LOVE” typography. (Modern art lovers may recognize his large-scale public sculptures from places like Midtown Manhattan, Philadelphia, and Indianapolis.) This oversized tote is made from recycled polyester canvas; it has a leather trim, a zip closure to keep everything inside, and a detachable shoulder strap to make carrying it easier.

Merrily roll along with Cotopaxi’s latest addition to its Allpa line of luggage.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

22. Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller Bag

Buy now: $350, cotopaxi.com ; rei.com

The AFAR-Approved Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack now comes with wheels. Just like the original Allpa, this carry-on sized bag can easily fit in the overhead bin of an airplane and has plenty of zippered compartments for small accessories, clothes, and shoes. It comes with two rugged wheels that can take on cobblestone streets and dirt roads with ease.

July’s suitcase colors are anything but basic.

Courtesy of July

23. July Personalized Luggage

Buy now: from $245 for luggage, $50 for personalization, july.com

Australia’s July luggage is known for offering personalization on its hard-shell suitcases with a variety of fonts, colors, and even emojis to customize to your heart’s content. July also sells gift cards so you don’t have to worry about picking out the right color or customization for your giftee.

The Out of Office Pet Carrier comes in fun colors and patterns, like this magenta and camouflage combo.

Courtesy of Roverlund

24. Roverlund Out-of-Office Pet Carrier

Buy now: from $159, roverlund.com

This durable yet stylish soft-sided pet carrier can function as a car seat during road trips and is also airline compliant. Once you arrive at your destination, the shoulder strap converts to a leash and the bag can be used as a mobile pet bed. Suitable for both dogs and cats, the small version fits animals up to 15 pounds, while the large is best for animals up to 25 pounds.

This two-in-one weekend bag is great for weddings, business trips, or anything that requires formal wear.

Courtesy of Brouk & Co

25. Brouk and Co. Capri 2-in-1 Garment Bag

Buy now: $120, broukandco.com ; $140, amazon.com

This clever duffel bag has a hidden garment bag inside. To pack it, put suits or long dresses in the garment bag section first, then add shoes to the side pockets, zip it up, and then add everything else to the main section.

Travel toiletries and skincare

Dab this rich cream around your eyes before take-off to arrive looking refreshed.

Courtesy of Blue Lagoon Iceland

26. BL+ Eye Cream

Buy now: $165, skincare.bluelagoon.com

This nourishing eye cream is the latest from Blue Lagoon’s proprietary skincare line, which is made with microalgae and silica sourced from the same geothermal source as those famous Icelandic blue pools. The travel-friendly 15 ml pot may be pricey—but a little goes a long way and makes for a luxurious gift. Pair it with the BL+ face cream to create your own gift set.

This buy spray smells amazing, but more importantly—it works.

Courtesy of Kinfield

27. Kinfield Golden Hour Bug Repellent

Buy now: $22, kinfield.com

Yes, it is possible to find a DEET-free bug repellent that works. Kinfield Golden Hour uses a mix of citronella, lemongrass, and cloves to keep you bite-free (and smelling amazing). Plus, the three-ounce spray bottle is TSA-friendly.

Purchasing travel-size items is a great way to test products before committing to the full-size ones.

Courtesy of Standard Dose

28. Wonder Valley Little Wonders Kit

Buy now: $72, saksfifthavenue.com

California-based Wonder Valley uses its own olive oils to make clean skincare products like its oil cleanser, face oil, Wonder serum, and Hinoki body oil, which are bundled in TSA-approved travel sizes in this four-piece kit.

Travel clothes and shoes

This women’s coat by Filson pulls design inspiration from the brand’s archival Wool Packer Coat.

Courtesy of Filson

29. Filson Women’s Wool Trapper Coat

On sale December 1: $995, filson.com

Filson started off in 1897 to outfit pioneers of the Yukon Gold Rush with rugged outdoor apparel. More than 100 years later, the Seattle-based brand is expanding its womenswear line with chic coats inspired by archival items like this one that will be available online on December 1, 2023. Made with plaid wool, this investment piece runs long to provide more coverage, its sheepskin-shearling collar can be worn down or flipped up for extra warmth.

30. Gobi Oversized Cashmere Scarf

Buy now: $229, gobicashmere.com

Cashmere is always a welcome gift, and Gobi crafts its clothing and accessories entirely in Mongolia from 100 percent Mongolian cashmere. Its unisex oversized scarf can be used as a travel blanket on the plane and a scarf or wrap once you arrive. It’s available in six colors, including multiple shades of gray as well as lavender and coral pink.

This puffer poncho is made with elastane to provide just the right amount of stretch.

Courtesy of Mountain Hardwear

31. Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Poncho

Buy now: $300, mountainhardwear.com

This insulated poncho doubles as a cover-up for quick changes on chilly beach days and as a wearable blanket at campsites. It’s made with a stretchy material filled with Responsible Down Standard–certified down. It’s available in two unisex sizes—S/M and L/XL—and three colors: black, sandstorm, and “blurple.” The kangaroo-style front pocket has a zippered pocket inside to keep items like keys and phones secure.

The bathrobes from Hotel Saint Vincent in New Orleans are some of the most beautiful we’ve ever seen.

Photo by Cristina Fisher

32. Hotel Saint Vincent Marbled Silk Robe

Buy now: $395, farwestcollective.com

It’s tempting to steal hotel bathrobes, especially when they’re as beautiful as the marbled silk robes at Hotel Saint Vincent in New Orleans. Now you can buy these unisex designs online through hotelier Liz Lambert’s Far West Collective retail shop. They are machine washable and sized to fit most people.

More than a dozen colors of Calzuro clogs are available on Amazon.

Courtesy of Amazon

33. Calzuro Classic Clog with Holes

Buy now: $107, calzuro.com ; amazon.com

In addition to being a deputy editor at AFAR, Katherine LaGrave is also our team’s resident clog aficionado. “I have ‘nice’ clogs, clogs for gardening, and clogs for indoors. But until recently, my clog wearing was limited to three seasons; I couldn’t find a pair that was a fit for summer and all its activities,” she says.

“Enter the Calzuro classic, which I discovered after a woman at my local dog park arrived sporting a pair in black. With a 1.5-inch heel, the slim plastic clogs are lightweight and durable, and you can purchase them with or without ventilation holes. Designed in Italy for medical professionals, the clogs can be bleached or washed in a dishwasher or washing machine, and getting rid of sand and dirt is as simple as putting them under a hose. Thrillingly, the clogs also come in a number of colors: hot pink, sunshine yellow, orange. I opted for a sky-blue pair and have already put miles on them out to lunch, at the beach, and at the dog park.”

Each slipper has a loop on it so you can clip it to your backpack while you hike.

Courtesy of Chaco

34. Chaco Ramble Puff Clogs

Buy now: $75, women’s, chacos.com ; men’s, chacos.com

For those heading to the mountains instead of the beach this winter, we’ve also found clogs for you. Chaco’s cozy fleece-lined clogs look like tiny sleeping bags for your feet and will keep them warm and dry. They’re perfect for early-morning walks, late-night campfire chats, and stress-free airport experiences.

This beanie is available in 10 colors, including the forest green seen here.

Courtesy of Sh*t That I Knit

35. Sh*t That I Knit Rutherford Beanie

Buy now: $135, shitthatiknit.com

Sh*t That I Knit is a woman-owned company that employs more than 400 artisans in Lima, Peru, who earn a fair wage for hand-knitting these sporty winter beanies. Made with 100 percent Peruvian merino wool, the hats are available in 10 different colors and come with a detachable faux-fur pom-pom.

This sun hat folds up into a small circular pouch for easy packing.

36. Baggu Packable Sun Hat

Buy now: $36, baggu.com

With a brim diameter nearly two feet wide, these sun hats from Baggu are so large it’s hard not to make a statement wearing one at the pool. Thankfully, they fold down neatly into an included circular pouch for easy packing. Go ahead and purchase one for your friend who hides from the sun but basks in the glow of a little poolside attention.

Sabah’s Condesa Pink shoe is inspired by the vibrant Mexico City neighborhood.

Courtesy of Sabah

37. Sabah Shoes

Buy now: from $210, sabah.am

These lace-free unisex travel shoes—handmade in Gaziantep, Turkey—look as good poolside as they do at happy hour. Crafted out of leather and available in a rainbow of colors, the slip-on shoe is also perfect for seamlessly moving through airport security lines. The sole is rubber for traction and durability, and the fit is roomy yet chic. (The only difference in the men’s and women’s sizing is the men’s are better suited for wider feet. They also come in children’s sizes !) The brand’s earthy tones go with everything, while the trendy patterns and bold colors photograph well.

Woolen slippers from Danish brand Glerups are the key to staying cozy off the slopes.

38. Glerups Slipper Boots

Buy now: $155, glerups.com

These unisex slipper boots from Denmark are made with grippy rubber bottoms and 100 percent natural wool felt. Glerups are the ultimate travel footwear for moments when coziness is key, whether it’s a red-eye flight or gathering around a fireplace for après-ski.

Compression socks are a travel essential.

Courtesy of Bombas

39. Bombas Compression Socks

Buy now: $28, women’s, bombas.com ; men’s, bombas.com

Compression socks aren’t a sexy gift, but they’re a must for any traveler to keep blood flowing and sore muscles at bay during long flights. The most comfortable compression socks on the market are Bombas, which are made with mild 15–20 mmHg compression levels, a seamless toe, and above-the-heel cushioning that extends to the toe. As with all other Bombas sock purchases, for every pair of socks purchased the company will donate another pair to a homeless shelter or other community organization.

Outdoor adventure gear

This blanket is campfire safe.

Courtesy of Rumpl

40. Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Blanket

Buy now: $130, rumpl.com

AFAR’s favorite packable blanket now comes in a fire-resistant version so you don’t have to worry about stray sparks at your next campfire. Rumpl’s NanoLoft Flame Blanket is also made with 100 percent post-consumer recycled insulation that mimics down for coziness and is machine washable for easy maintenance.

This portable coffee grinder grinds enough beans for one cup at a time.

Courtesy of VSSL

41. VSSL Java Coffee Grinder

Buy now: $160, vsslgear.com

“The VSSL Java coffee grinder is durable and well worth the space it will take up among your camping gear—at six inches tall and weighing just 14 ounces, it’s not much,” says Svati Kirsten Narula , an AFAR contributor. “With stainless steel burrs and 50 unique grind settings, it allows you to create the perfect-sized grounds for your preferred brewing method. It’s made out of aircraft-grade aluminum to stand up to abuse and grinds 20 grams of beans at a time, enough for one strong cup of coffee.”

Making quality joe on the go is easy with this portable coffee maker.

Courtesy of AeroPress

42. AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

Buy now: $40, rei.com ; amazon.com

All you need to make quality espresso while camping is an AeroPress Go, finely ground coffee, and hot water. You can also make a quick cold brew coffee with the AeroPress, although you need to remember to stir the grounds and cold water together for a full minute before pressing.

This snowshoe kit is great for beginners.

Courtesy of Cascade Mountain Tech

43. Cascade Mountain Tech Expedition Trail Series kit

Buy now: $120, cascademountaintech.com

Lightweight and easy to use, these snowshoes are a solid choice for those looking to become a four-season outdoor adventurer. “They’re in the Goldilocks zone of being both flexible (good for responsiveness), durable (so they’ll last years to come), and lightweight (important to preventing early fatigue),” AFAR contributor Bailey Berg says. “The kit also comes with twist-lock poles and a vented carry bag (handy because if you store your snowshoes wet, it won’t get funky).”

Anyone heading to a national park needs a good pair of binoculars.

Courtesy of Maven

44. Maven B.3 Binoculars

Buy now: $525, mavenbuilt.com ; amazon.com

A good pair of binoculars helps bring wildlife—be that a bird on a hike or lions at a safari—into crisp high definition. The B.3 Binoculars make for a good starter set because they pair incredible clarity with a reasonable price point. (Maven’s designs can go up to $1,600.) “They’re also compact, lightweight, and durable enough to withstand bouncing around in a backpack or being dropped in water, so they’re built to travel,” Berg says. “Though if they do get damaged, Maven has an unconditional lifetime warranty.”

>> Find more gift ideas for campers that they’ll actually use

Travel gifts for kids (and their parents)

The PuroQuiets Active Noise Cancelling Headphones come in four colors, including the light pink seen here.

Courtesy of Puro Sound Labs

45. Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiets Active Noise Canceling Headphones

Buy now: $139, purosound.com ; amazon.com

It might be tempting to buy cheap headphones for your kids to use on airplanes or in the car. But unlike other headphones, these volume-limiting headphones max out at 85 decibels, which the World Health Organization and other experts consider to be the upper limit for ear safety . They’re designed for ages 2 to 12 and are made with buttery-soft leather, so they should last for years.

This backpack also has a matching suitcase that goes with it.

Courtesy of State Bags

46. State Bags Kane Kids Mini Travel Backpack

Buy now: $78, statebags.com

Like an adult pack, this small backpack from State Bags comes with padded straps for comfort and a sleeve in the back for slipping it over the top of carry-on suitcases. Unlike larger models, this tiny pack is designed with a neon dinosaur pattern to delight the littlest travelers. The Mini Backpack is recommended for children ages 2 to 4, while the larger Kane Kids Backpack is designed for those ages 4 to 8.

Use this solar-powered lamp as a travel nightlight or a flashlight for camping.

Courtesy of Studio Olafur Eliasson

47. Little Sun Original Solar Lamp

Buy now : $30, goodeeworld.com

Designed by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson, this portable, flower-shaped solar lamp can be used as a nightlight or worn around the neck as a flashlight. For each lamp sold, one is donated to Little Sun ’s partners in rural Africa, who are working to bring solar energy to those living without electricity. One of hundreds of environmentally minded products sold on Goodee, a socially conscious online marketplace, this solar lamp comes with a personal stamp of approval from co-founder Byron Peart’s niece, who says she loves using it to read in bed at night.

Get kids excited for the airport with this ride-on suitcase.

Courtesy of Stokke

48. JetKids by Stokke

Buy now: $229, stokke.com

The JetKids by Stokke ride-on suitcase allows children to move faster through the airport. Both of AFAR senior news editor Michelle Baran’s kids loved riding these so much on a recent trip to Europe that she ended up checking her stroller to her final destination. Once aboard the plane, the top props up to convert an economy airplane seat into a lie-flat bed with an included mat. The interior space has enough room for an iPad and headphones, some paper, coloring books, pens, a small stuffie, and a blanket. You can opt for the additional attachable backpack for some added room, which Baran’s kids used for sweatshirts and small toys.

This portable car seat is worth the splurge, according to the parents among AFAR staff.

Courtesy of WAYB

49. WAYB Pico Portable Car Seat

Buy now: $380, wayb.com

OK, this one is more of a gift for parents who are done schlepping heavy car seats through airports. The eight-pound WAYB Pico Portable Car Seat folds into a compact 11.6 x 14.5 x 18.9-inch unit—basically the size of a medium camping backpack—that’s easy enough to lift on its own, and better still when stowed in a backpack carrier you can buy for an additional $95.

“As someone who has traveled alone with the kids and had to mount a full-sized car seat on my back, this is life-altering,” says Baran.

Make traveling with kids easier with the gift of a streamlined diaper bag.

Courtesy of No Reception Club

50. No Reception Club “The Sidekick” Fanny Pack

Buy now: $85, noreceptionclub.com

For times when parents don’t need the whole diaper bag, No Reception Club’s three-liter Sidekick fanny pack is thoughtfully designed to hold up to a half-dozen diapers, along with some ointment and hand sanitizer. (It also comes with its own changing pad.) The back exterior pocket is designed specifically to hold baby wipes. “I love its magnetic flap closure,” says AFAR contributor Courtney Holden . “It’s a breeze to swipe and wipe.”

This article was originally published in 2022; it was updated on November 1, 2023, with new items.

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Our editors' favourite travel gift ideas

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you're set to give a gift to someone who loves travel or is planning a big trip, then consider this your cue to forgo a generic voucher gift and give something with a practical or travel-inspired twist. From must-haves for plane travel to inspiring books and time-saving gadgets, the following are our top picks of the best travel gifts to give in 2024.

The gift of stress-free travel

For all the joy a holiday can bring, the actual travel element can be rife with stress, from lost luggage to misplaced passports and navigating busy airports. As frequent flyers ourselves, our editors have navigated a multitude of bumps on our travels, and found that the below buys are great for making the journey a lot smoother.

For the loved one who’s a frequent flyer, Antler’s zippy hard shell Clifton cabin bag is a winner. The durable yet lightweight polycarbonate case features a twist-grip handle, making it very easy to wheel it around the airport at speed. A favourite of our editors, this case is both a great size and quality, and also looks smart, with seven subdued shades to choose from.

Aspinal of London’s travel collection makes for a classic gift to give any travel lover. Including a passport holder, luggage tags and travel wallet, the collection is made from full-grain leather and comes in six elegant shades and finishes. The brand also offers a personalisation option, so you can add the recipient's initials for a special personalised touch.

Anya Hindmarch’s in-flight travel bag is a game changer when it comes to staying organised on the go. Designed with air travel in mind, the carry-on bag has an array of clever features including a sleeve designed to sit over the bag of a luggage trolley and a clear removable pouch to store liquids. We also love the numerous internal and external organisational pockets, each with its own embossed label covering all of the travel essentials like ‘passport’ ‘keys’ ‘glasses,’ ‘headphones’ and ‘water.’

Since its release in 2021, Apple’s Bluetooth AirTag has become a must-have for frequent travellers or anyone prone to misplacing their keys. Simply attach the small button-shaped AirTag to your suitcase and connect to your iPad or iPhone via Bluetooth. Once connected you can find your item via the built-in speaker when it’s nearby or via the Precision Finding function on the app when it’s further away.

Finished, naturally, in beautifully soft Nappa leather, Mulberry’s passport cover has a soft grain effect and comes in a selection of chic colours to match your handbag. There are three slip pockets inside for all your docs along with four card slots. A must-have companion for keeping all your important travel documents together safely.

There's nothing like a dead battery to slow down a trip. Keep all your accessories charged up with a power bank. Anker is our favourite – it weighs just over 300 grams (or as little as a can as soup) but can charge an iPhone 8 almost seven times, the Galaxy S8 five times, or the iPad mini 4 twice.

A travel wash bag is key to staying organised — and avoiding spills in your luggage. We like this option from Away for its water-resistant materials and ample space for your toothbrush and toothpaste, razor, soaps, and more. A hanging bag also allows you to keep items tidy and off the bathroom counter.

For international travel, a power adapter is a must to make sure you can get devices charged up in the airport and your hotel room. Apple's World Travel Adapter Kit comes with seven AC plugs with prongs that fit into different electrical outlets around the world, and each one is labelled with the regions they are compatible with.

This is a fun idea for the friend who likes to be organised. Papier’s travel journals have pages for planning and memorialising six special trips, with space for noting down budgets, itineraries, packing lists and other important details. Long flight? There are travel games at the back, along with pages for journalling and scrapbooking.

The gift of elegant adventures

While holidays can require forgoing home comforts, they can equally be a time for indulgence. Whether your loved ones are committed staycationers or long-haul pros, buying them something they can use time and time again to make those memories extra special can go a long way. These gifts could just as easily come in handy closer to home.

Turn heads at picnics, festivals, and dinner parties with The Clicquot Cooler. With its rotative chromed handle, it's the best way to elevate any social gathering on arrival. Simply pop your favourite bottle of Champagne in the 100 per cent recyclable, eco-designed yellow or pink receptacle and be on your way. The fizz remains chilled for up to two hours out of the fridge – just enough time to find a spot for some toes-in-the-sand bubbles.

The gift of sleeping on a plane

Standing down the hours of a long-haul flight is made all the more easier with a gift that doubles as a travel hack. When it comes to feeling comfortable and getting some shut-eye, the littlest luxuries can make a huge difference.

Trtl has revamped its clever wrap-style neck pillow to accommodate people of all heights more comfortably. The latest iteration is adjustable, to better suit your particular requirements, and the pillow section itself has been given a high-density foam makeover. Trtl’s offering is a lot smaller than standard U-shaped pillows, and weighs a petite 225 grams, so it won’t take up precious space in your hand luggage – or you could use the included clip to attach it to your rucksack .

Neal's Yard products make a lovely treat, whether you're travelling or not. This mini travel kit comprises all the skincare routine you'll need – bar SPF – for a 10 to 14 day trip, in a hand luggage-friendly size. This particular set is from the brand's Rose range, which uses highly fragrant roses grown and distilled in Bulgaria, farming co-operatives in Turkey and at high altitude on Mount Lebanon. Something globetrotters will surely appreciate.

When it comes to what to wear on a long flight , an oversized hoodie is hard to beat. Team it with a pair of comfortable leggings or a matching jogger, add a cashmere blanket and get ready to drift off. For a hoodie that makes a great gift, we love this elevated organic cotton style, embroidered with the Vogue logo for the ultimate fashion stamp of approval.

Skip the in-flight blankets provided by airlines – not only are they wasteful but also made from scratchy polyester. A much more luxurious alternative is a cashmere blanket, which not only feels softer but has an insulation capacity that's three times higher than wool, ideal for maintaining body temperature during a long flight.

Elizabeth Scarlett’s signature delicate embroidered designs features here on a 100 per cent cotton eye mask, helping travellers claw back a few precious hours’ shuteye while en route. Cleverly, the mask is filled with a sweet lavender blend to maximise the relaxation in use – a real treat.

The gift of jet-set style

Airport style had a big moment in 2023, with travellers walking the line between classic style and total comfort, and a subtle nod to celebrity paparazzi photos. The outfit formula is all about a designer loungewear set in a muted shade, teamed with comfortable trainers, a cap, sunglasses and a hardshell suitcase in a classic neutral shade .

German designer luggage brand Rimowa has some of the slickest suitcases on the market, with their classic aluminium cases proving the envy of all frequent flyers.

Merch fans will love the latest collaboration between designer denim brand Frame and legendary hotel the Ritz Paris. This Cashmere knit, embroidered with the hotelier's iconic logo, is the epitome of jet-set chic.

For a designer luggage tag that doesn't take itself too seriously, this cheerful lobster tag is part of a collaboration between cult cool-brand Loewe and the irreverent Paula's Ibiza. It's made in Italy from 100% leather and embossed with the brand's signature Anagram logo. It also comes with a dustbag, to keep him safe when not on his travels

Gucci has elevated the humble souvenir sticker with their ultra-stylish set of retro-logo luggage stickers. Perfect for personalising a suitcase, or adding to any travel accessory – travel wallet or luggage tag – these stickers are a playful way to add personality to any journey.

A secret beauty weapon for well-heeled travellers, this thick, creamy and super-hydrating mask is the key to caring for skin while in-transit. The mask features chestnut extract exfoliates to take away dullness, allowing for deeper penetration of Vitamin C to brighten. Green tea soothes and calms redness, and niacinamide reduces pores and fine lines. You can wear it throughout a flight, overnight or as a 10-minute mask.

This portable all-in-one dressing table by Beautifect is a game changer for regular travellers – it might even replace your makeup bag at home. The easy-to-carry box features a table, adjustable mirror, and storage, as well as an impressive lighting system that offers five different environments including true daylight. We also love that the box is powered by a standard USB-C and can last up to a month on just one single charge.

The gift of avoiding baggage fees

Packing hacks were a big talking point this year, with the below buys ranking top of our list when it came to travelling carry on luggage only.

It might be called an overnight bag, but if you pack strategically Antler's Chelsea bag can easily work as a weekender bag. This is a worthy investment for frequent flyers – in addition to numerous internal and external pockets and compartments, including a laptop sleeve and a water bottle pouch, it also has an over-handle sleeve, making it an ideal option to take on a long-haul flight . The bag is made in a durable water-resistant nylon and comes in nine different colour options, which of course match their Chelsea suitcase range .

For a do-it-all tote bag, it’s easy to see why this style from July is a best seller. Firstly the size – the large tote has room for 22 litres, plenty of space for packing a whole weekend’s worth of items. Then there are the organisation options – a dedicated laptop sleeve, a drink bottle holder, a pocket for a phone and wallet, as well as a zip-up pocket ideal for storing a passport. There are two external pockets, one that’s hidden and secured with a magnet, as well as a sleeve to slip over a luggage handle, so it can easily sit safely on top of a suitcase.

Australian luggage brand July has developed the world’s lightest carry-on suitcase. Weighing in at a dainty 1.8kg, the July Carry On Light, £195, offers a 32L capacity, aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell, specially-designed noise-reducing wheels, and a lifetime guarantee. The case is available in nine colours and also offers a personalisation service as well.

Packing cubes are a game-changer for hand luggage aficionados, helping you squeeze more into your case in a way that’s pleasingly effective. This set of four gives you space to separate your clothes, underwear, electronics and toiletries, while the mesh windows ensure you can see what you need to grab at-a-glance.

Even travellers with a library full of books at home have to admit it: E-readers are an essential travel accessory for bookworms . They are so much lighter than even one paperback book, and let you bring as many options as you want along for the ride.

The gift of armchair travel

Our pick of the best transportive gifts that bring the essence of travel to your home.

Loewe's collaboration with Paula's Ibiza perfectly captures summer in Ibiza in a rainbow ombre bottle. The woody-meets-floral fragrance combines notes of citrusy orange flower, jasmine sambac, incense essential oil and frankincense, creating an evocative bohemian scent that any sun-worshipper will love.

Transport your gift recipient to the fragrant fields of Southern India via Diptyque's delicately scented tuberose candle. Inspired by visits to Indochina in the 1930s, the heady yet fresh and green scent is available in a dreamy oceanic blue jar as part of the limited edition Don Son collection , which draws upon the childhood memories of Yves Coueslant, one of the Maison's founders.

Cult favourite London restaurant BAO released its first recipe book earlier this year, offering up the secrets to 100 of its most beloved Taiwanese-inspired dishes. Keen cooks can now recreate their famous steamed buns at home, as well as Taiwanese fried chicken, beef noodles, snack-size xiao chi, and more.

Assouline’s much sought-after coffee table books make for the ultimate wanderlust-meets-decor gift. On the outside these beautiful hardcover travel books add a fun splash of colour to any room, while inside they feature dreamy imagery and inspiring stories from some of the world’s most beloved destinations.

The gift of adventure

Practical gift ideas for those who prefer a hike over a sun lounger.

With an impressive 42L capacity, this Stubble & Co carry-on travel backpack is ideal for hands-free travel on trips that last three-to-five days. It's packed with clever features, including a 16" laptop sleeve, a clamshell opening for easy packing, a hidden valuables compartment, and a reflective rain cover to ensure you stay visible and your gear stays dry in wet weather. Compression straps keep everything as compact as possible, and there's a passthrough band to attach it to your case as well.

When we asked Victoria Beckham , earlier this year, about her most beloved travel item, she name dropped Yeti. The popular American drinkwear brand is the ultimate go-to for any adventure traveller, especially for camping or hiking trips. Their classic Rambler bottle is a winner when it comes to travel; made from stainless steel and vacuum insulated, so your water will stay cold for hours.

Okay, yes – it’s a gift card. But no gift guide is complete without one option and, as far as stereotypical vouchers-as-presents go, this is a pretty good one to receive. With a feast of stunning properties available to book across the globe, from London to New York and beyond, the keys to a new Airbnb makes an ideal gift for a globetrotting loved one ready to tick off the next trip on their list.

The gift of distraction

For the little travellers in your life, these clever buys will help to ensure an easier journey. For more ideas, see our pick of the best travel toys .

It’s rare to take a trip to the airport without spotting at least one of Trunki’s cheery suitcases in the waiting room. The designs are practical and fun, with a roomy 18 litre storage capacity for toys, clothes and games. As a bonus, the cases have a saddle seat and tow strap, allowing for easy tot transportation from check-in desk to gate.

This made-for-kids tablet could be the key to a peaceful flight, car journey, ferry ride and more. It comes with 1 year of Amazon Kids+ content so your little one can watch all the Peppa Pig they want, and has a sturdy kid-proof case (available in three different coloured) to protect it against the inevitable drops and bumps.

The mini size of the popular Yoto audio player is perfect for travelling. Compact and easy-to-use for kids aged 3+, the collectable cards which play stories and interactive games are also easy to pack.  It also doubles as a speaker and alarm clock and the extended battery life means it's a great companion for long journeys.

If the goal is to get maximum entertainment from just one toy, then busy boards are a miraculous invention for children from a few months to a few years old. The ARVRI Sensory Busy Board offers 15 different activities in a book-style carrying case that’s just a tiny bit larger than an A4 sheet of paper.

Protect Your Trip »

33 practical travel gifts anyone can use.

Shop the best travel gifts for every budget and style this holiday season.

Practical Travel Gifts

Courtesy of Twelve South

The Twelve South Airfly Pro Bluetooth Transmitter is one of the year's best travel gifts.

Travel gifts don't have to be reserved for frequent jet-setters and aspiring globe-trotters. Luggage and travel accessories can also be a good option in those scenarios where you just don't know what to buy, but still want to give something meaningful and useful. Read on to find the best travel gifts – including new products and trendy favorites – at a variety of price points.

• Gifts under $25
• Gifts under $50
• Gifts under $100
• Gifts under $150
• Gifts under $200
• Gifts under $300
• Gifts under $400

Mediheal Sheet Masks

Air travel can be especially drying for the skin, making these restorative sheet masks a favorite among jet-setters. The Mediheal Sheet Masks come in a pack of 10 and a variety of options to suit different skin care needs.

Price: $19.90 or less

TIGARI Passport Holder

Due to unusually long processing times, passport applications and renewals have been a nightmare for many travelers over the past year (plus). Help your gift recipient protect their precious new (or newly updated) travel document with a stylish wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder, our top passport wallet pick . Travelers appreciate that this wallet comes in bright colors, allowing them to easily locate their passport.

Price: $9.99 or less

Etekcity Luggage Scale

For the chronic overpacker and/or souvenir shopper, the Etekcity Luggage Scale can determine whether or not their luggage weight will meet airline restrictions – and save them the hassle of paying excess baggage fees.

Price: $12.62 or less

Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder

It's nearly impossible not to spill coffee when you're trying to maneuver carry-on luggage , locate your gate and keep your travel companions together. This nifty gadget features two pockets for drinks (or other essentials), and recent reviewers confirm it really helps them multitask at the airport.

Price: $16.99 or less

Steeped Coffee

While the AeroPress is a timeless travel gift for adventure travelers, steeped coffee – which is basically a tea bag, but with ground coffee – is a newer option that can be just as good as a freshly brewed cup of Joe. If you can't find it at a local coffee shop, try the brand of the same name: Steeped Coffee. Based in Santa Cruz, California, the company sells a variety of roast profiles.

Price: From $14.95

Conair Handheld Travel Garment Steamer

While garment steamers are prohibited on cruise ships, they're useful to have just about anywhere else you go (think business trips and destination weddings ). Not only is this top-rated option by Conair good for travel, but it's also handy at home.

Price: $24.99 or less

Read: Cruise Packing List Essentials

Veken Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a foolproof travel gift; there's no one who can't benefit from them, even if they already own a set or two. Available on Amazon, the Veken Packing Cubes include eight compartments in a variety of sizes, including one that's designed for toiletries and another that can hold a pair of shoes.

Price: $29.99 or less

Read: The Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Magicteam Sound Machine

You can't go wrong with the gift of sleep, and this portable sound machine is just one way to encourage a good night's rest (which can be difficult to achieve when you're in an unfamiliar place). The Magicteam Sound Machine offers 20 non-looping sounds and 32 volume levels to ensure your gift recipient will find the perfect setting for soothing. Recent reviewers agree this sound machine is small but powerful.

Stasher Bags

Not only are these reusable bags convenient for everyday use, but they're also useful at the airport – your gift recipient can put their medications and other essentials in the clear bags for easy identification and access. While they're a bit pricey, buyers appreciate that they're sustainable .

Price: $44.99 or less

CALPAK Tech Organizer

Phone chargers, travel adapters, laptop cords – they all need to come with you, but they can be awkward to pack. Enter the tech organizer, a trendy travel gadget that's actually useful. This one by CALPAK offers multiple compartments for storing a variety of cords, and its mesh paneling helps you see where everything is located.

Price: $38 or less

Apple AirTag

The luggage tracking device has become less of an accessory and more of an essential over the past year. Out of all the luggage trackers on the market, frequent travelers agree the Apple AirTag is best at keeping tabs on their belongings.

Price: $28.99 or less

Belkin Apple AirTag Holder

An AirTag holder is necessary for anyone using the popular luggage tracker, and this option by Belkin has great reviews on Amazon. Plus, at less than $15, it won't set you back much if you decide to gift it along with the AirTag itself.

Price: $12.99 or less

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow

Not all travel pillows are created equal. For a quality option that will fully support the neck and prevent aches and pains, choose the Cabeau Evolution S3, our top pick for the best neck pillows for travel . Your gift recipient will be thanking you for years to come.

Price: $49.99 or less

Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle

This stainless steel bottle not only keeps drinks cold but also filters out contaminants – especially useful when filling it with water in unfamiliar destinations. Because of the filter, reviewers note the bottle can be a tad awkward to drink from, but they ultimately recommend this product.

Price: $31.49 or less for 20-ounce bottle

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Happyluxe Wayfarer Travel Scarf Wrap

As perhaps the most versatile travel accessory, a wrap is useful on cold planes and cool evenings, as a swimsuit cover-up, or when you just want to dress up an outfit. Recent buyers say the Happyluxe Wayfarer Travel Scarf Wrap is a wardrobe staple, noting how soft it is.

Price: $48 or less

Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack

A modern take on the fanny pack , belt bags are one of the year's top fashion trends; better yet, they're especially useful for vacationing, allowing travelers to both safeguard and easily access their phone, credit cards and other essentials. The highly rated Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack takes it up a notch, with locking compartments, a slash-resistant build and an RFID blocking compartment. It can be worn around the waist or across the chest.

Price: $60.60 or less

Read: The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Twelve South Airfly Pro Bluetooth Transmitter

If your gift recipient uses wireless earbuds, they'll appreciate this tiny device that allows them to wirelessly transmit audio from in-flight entertainment (which is otherwise limited to those with wired headphones). It also has 25 hours of battery life so it'll last a long-haul flight. Recent buyers say this is a must for air travel.

Price: $54.99 or less

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12

Instant photos are a great way to commemorate any trip, and they're just plain fun for both kids and adults. The compact design of these cameras – particularly the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 – makes them ideal for travel, too. Just note that the film is sold separately unless you purchase a package that includes accessories.

Price: $77.35 or less

Tommy Bahama Beach Chairs 

Quality beach chairs can be an investment – but a worthy one for anyone who frequents the sand and surf. The Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair remains the tried and true choice for many beachgoers, who appreciate its portability and comfort.

Price: $89.50 or less

Halfday The Garment Duffel

Courtesy of Halfday

One of the best garment bags for travel , this duffel style makes it easy to travel with suits, dresses and other formalwear. Available in several different colors, The Garment Duffel by Halfday gets rave reviews for its durable, spacious design and ability to keep clothing wrinkle-free.

Price: $98 or less

CALPAK Car Organizer

It's easy to clutter a car – even more so when you have kids – which is why just about anyone who drives will find the CALPAK Car Organizer useful for road trips and everyday errands. The water-resistant bag features three compartments and a carrying handle. It also folds down via snap buttons to be used as a makeshift tote bag, a feature recent reviewers love.

Read: Road Trip Packing List Essentials

Allbirds Tree Runner

The Allbirds Tree Runner remains a top-rated choice for those in search of comfortable walking shoes for travel . Available in a variety of colors for men, women and kids, these sustainable shoes are lightweight and breathable; they're also machine-washable. Allbirds wearers appreciate that these sneakers look good and feel good on their feet.

GetYourGuide Gift Card

Regardless of where they plan to travel next, your gift recipient will appreciate a GetYourGuide gift card. Available for any amount, this gift card grants access to a variety of guided tours around the world, from expert-led tours of the Vatican to airboat rides in the Everglades .

Price: Varies

BÉIS The Weekender

One of the year's trendiest bags, The Weekender by BÉIS makes a great gift for any traveler, from college students visiting home to your friend who likes to escape the city on weekends. Owners of this bag especially appreciate the shoe compartment, as well as its variety of color options.

Price: $108 or less

Read: The Best Weekender Bags for Women

RTIC Outdoors Soft Pack Cooler

A cooler bag can go a long way, from tailgate parties to camping trips to beach vacations and beyond. Our top pick for the best cooler bag on the market, the RTIC Outdoors Soft Cooler receives rave reviews for its durability and capacity (up to 40 cans for the largest size). Be on the lookout for sales – these coolers are regularly discounted on Amazon and elsewhere.

Price: $159.99 or less

Delsey Paris Helium Aero 19-Inch Carry-On

This chic bag meets most carry-on luggage size requirements for international airlines, making it an ideal choice for frequent globe-trotters. Recent buyers especially appreciate how lightweight it is.

Price: $179.99 or less

Airbnb Gift Card

From treehouses and houseboats to windmills and lighthouses, Airbnb offers unique accommodations across the globe. Treat your loved one to a memorable overnight experience with an Airbnb gift card, available in any amount. Gifts cards purchased online are digitally delivered, while physical gift cards are available at stores like Target and Walmart .

State Bags Logan Suitcase

Courtesy of STATE Bags

With ride-on and even sleep-on options, today's best kiddie luggage makes us want to be young again. But if you're looking for a timeless piece of luggage that's both fun and built to last, the Logan Suitcase by State Bags is highly recommended by parents. It's available in two sizes and a variety of colors and patterns.

Price: $225 or less

Peak Design Travel Backpack

Courtesy of Peak Design

Travelers rave about the versatility of this heavy-duty backpack, which can be used as a camera bag, a daypack, or as luggage for weekend and weeklong trips. Earlier this year we chose it as one of the best travel backpacks for men – but the truth is, it's perfect for any adult and any trip.

Price: $299.95 or less

Monos Carry-On Plus

The Monos Carry-On Plus has been getting a lot of attention, and here's why: It's perfect for frequent jet-setters who want to travel with a carry-on bag only, offering just a bit more space than your average carry-on suitcase. Travelers agree they're also drawn to this bag for its sleek design and color options.

Price: $275 or less

Travelpro Expandable 21-Inch Carry-On Spinner

Whether you choose the hard-sided version or the soft-sided spinner , you can't go wrong with any of the carry-on (or checked) luggage by Travelpro. One of the best luggage brands on the market, Travelpro is known for its quality luggage that is built to stand the test of time (and airport luggage handlers). Look out for luggage sales , as Travelpro regularly offers discounts.

Price: $369.99 or less

Read: Hard vs. Soft Luggage: Which Type Is Right for You?

Solgaard Carry-on Closet

The Solgaard Carry-on Closet is one of the ultimate travel gifts to give right now. Thanks to the patented shelving system that gives the bag its name, travelers say this suitcase lives up to all the hype you've seen on social media and TV. They also note that they've been able to use this as their only luggage for longer trips.

Price: $345 or less

Cotopaxi Allpa Roller Bag

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

The popular Cotopaxi Allpa travel pack now comes with wheels. Launched in late 2023, this roller bag is slightly bigger than its predecessor but can still be used as a carry-on bag. Larger sizes are also available.

Price: $350 or less

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cheap Luggage
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?
• The Top Toiletry Bags for Travel

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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55 Best Gifts for Travelers in 2024 – By Travel Experts

Written By: The Planet D

Inspiration

Updated On: February 28, 2024

We know that finding the perfect gift for travelers can be a difficult task but we’ve done the hard work for you. Dave and I have been  professional travel bloggers  since 2009 and have tried and tested nearly every  gadget  out there. This comprehensive list gives you ideas to choose the best travel gifts that your loved one will actually use while traveling or at home.

Here are our best travel-themed gifts that will get you the thumbs up when opened this holiday season.

Table of Contents

Best Gifts for Travelers

After trying countless products over 20 years of travel we’ve narrowed down the best gifts for travelers that have personally tested.   No matter what your budget is these travel gifts are great ideas for the travel enthusiast in your life. Looking for more travel gifts for frequent travelers? Check out these 32 Best Gifts for Outdoor Lovers and Adventurers

Best Gifts for Travelers under $100

1. apple air tags.

Lost luggage has become common and Apple Air Tags have been a huge help for finding our bags. We lost our luggage en route to an Alaskan cruise and actually sent the airline a screenshot of where our bag was in the airport. When looking for a travel gift, this is the most practical gift you can give. When you can’t travel carry on only, Apple Air Tags are a must-have travel gear item that helps give your loved one peace of mind.

2. Travel Packing Cubes

There is a reason that packing cubes are always popular. Packing cubes make great stocking stuffers and are an affordable option for organizing your travel bag. I stuff clothes, and electronics, and even use as a laundry bag to keep my back from from smelling. Everything is neatly packed away in color-coded cubes making my travels more organized and less cluttered. These compression packing cubes always make one of the best travel gifts every year.

3. White Noise Machine

Dave and I cannot sleep without white noise. This white noise machine will drown out loud neighbors, thumping music, and snoring loved one. We were recently in Chile and music was playing all night long. Others in our group didn’t sleep a wink, but we had our white noise matching going and didn’t wake up once. For frequent travelers or first-time travelers, this is the perfect piece of travel gear to add to their travel bag.

4. The Trtl Travel Neck Pillow

Sleeping on planes can be a pain in the neck (See what I did there?), but with the Trtl Neck travel pillow , those days of needing to blow up a neck pillow are long gone. This is the Cadillac of all-neck pillows and one of the best gifts for frequent world travelers who are on planes a lot. It is scientifically proven to support your neck and aid sleep during long flights. And let me tell you this works. If you want to be comfortable on your next plane ride then get one of these.

5. Belkin Mini Surge Protector

If you read our blog often, you’ll know that I recommend the Belkin as one of the top pieces of travel equipment out there and one we recommend every year. The Belkin Mini Surge Protector is probably one of the most useful pieces of travel ger you can get someone. It not only protects your electronics from power surges, but it also charges several things at once with 3 outlets and 2 USB ports.

6. Portable Charger and Power Bank

Everybody needs a portable charger when they are traveling. Nothing is more frustrating than having your phone or iPad die at the wrong moment. That is why we use the PowerCore Lite 20000 . It has 2 outputs and saves us from carrying 2 separate power banks. This portable charger is lightweight and it carries enough charge to recharge your phone up to 3 times! For those who want just one outlet for their portable charger, make sure to check out the PowerCore Lite 10000.

7. SleepPhones

When it comes to travel accessories, comfort is key! I always suggest having noise-canceling headphones on an airplane, but when you go to sleep on long haul flights, it can be difficult to keep them on your head. And they get in the way. Plus, I never sleep in my Apple Air Pods for fear of having them fall on the floor and they’ll be gone for good.

These SleepPhones have Bluetooth technology and are wireless. They are great to use to fall asleep while listening to soothing music or audiobooks and they take up no space in your carry on. There’s an easy sizing guide that worked great. I ordered a medium and it fits perfectly. Check them out and see what you think

8. BioLite AlpenGlo 250

The BioLite AlpenGlo 250 great gift for travelers who love to get outdoors, go on camping trips and get off the beaten path. This lantern gives off ambient light with several different settings depending on your mood. Change the colours and even put it in a party mode where the colors change and flicker. It’s great for adding ambient light to the campsite, hotel room or to a cramped van when taking a road trip cross country. Plus a great additional feature is that the lantern is rechargeable and doubles a powerbank to charge your cell phone .

Best Travel Gifts Under $25

9. clickr phone grip and expandable stand.

CLCKR  is a perfect phone case for frequent travelers as it makes it easy to watch videos and online content while on a plane. This unique piece of travel gear has a built-in stand or universal grip that you can rest on your tray table and use as an airplane phone holder. It’s handy for watching or creating video content on the go as the case stands for your device in landscape or portrait mode. Its streamlined design also is very fashionable.

10. World Travel Adapter

Finding the right travel adapter over the years has been a challenge but after getting this OREI M8 All-In-One International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter we love it. This is a piece of travel gear we can’t go without as it converts plugs for any country in the world at the slide of a switch, which makes for great travel gifts for people who travel for work or leisure. Most importantly it is light and durable so you won’t have to replace it after a few uses like other models we have tried. If you are looking for a practical gift for frequent travelers, your friend will love it.

11. Portable Luggage Scale

There is nothing worse than getting to the airport check-in counter and finding out you have to pay a fee for overweight luggage. A portable scale has become an invaluable piece for frequent travelers. With a portable luggage scale, you can weigh it at home before you start your travels. We have even had our carry-on weighed recently while traveling, so it’s good to know before you go. This will definitely help frequent travelers save time, money, and hassle every time they leave home.

12. Travel Laundry Bag

We also use a dedicated laundry bag for clothing when traveling as well. Some people may want to save their cubes for packing, so get them a laundry bag to go with their set of packing cubes. They’ll be organized and all set for their next vacation.

13. Portable Carry-on Luggage bag

We have started carrying a portable carry-on travel bag on all of our trips because it has so many uses. It is big enough to fit extra souvenirs, to take clothes and towels to the beach, and a laundry bag when we are hiking. The Arxus Foldable Tote folds up really small, is lightweight and durable, and slides right onto the back of your suitcase for easy carry on. Read more: 22 Best Luggage Brands For Every Budget .

14. UV Toothbrush Sanitizer

If you are traveling in the backcountry, sharing hostels, or going anywhere with a shared bathroom this Pursonic S1 Portable UV Toothbrush Sanitizer will give you some peace of mind. This toothbrush sanitizer kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. We started using this last year and fell in love with it. It is packed on every trip we take now.

15. Airplane Phone Holder and Tablet Holder

With more and more airlines making you watch their in-flight entertainment on your own device we were looking for something that we could use to hold our devices so our necks don’t cramp. After a lot of searching, we found the perfect solution for frequent travelers and casual travelers in the Flight Flap Phone & Tablet Holder that is specifically designed for air travel. Your loved one will thank you for this handy piece of travel gear when watching movies on the plane, just sling it over the tray table and preso, your mini movie theater. Trust me, you will never have a cramped neck again!

16. Airplane Moisturizing Kit

Everyone knows how dry it can get on the airplane, especially on those long-haul flights. That is why we always bring a Burt’s Bees Moisturizing Kit with us on our travels. This is a great kit that has all the essentials to help us to stay moisturized throughout the flight and our travels. My lips especially get dry on a plane and this kit comes complete with lip balm, hand salve, body location, and foot cream. With just a little care on the flight, you can arrive a little more refreshed.

17. No Ordinary Eye Mask

One of the things I love about this Pretty Care Travel Eye Mask is that it doesn’t rest on your eyes. It is raised so there is no pressure on them like traditional eye masks. It’s padded it really blocks out the light making them the perfect mask for long-haul flights. It is always in my travel kit to bring on an airplane. I sleep like a baby on long-haul flights with this.

Best Travel Gift Ideas for at-Home

These gifts for travel lovers are great for those who are stuck at home but still dream of hitting the road. Or reminder them of their favorite travels around the world. If you want more travel gift ideas you may also like these 30 Work From Home Gifts – Great Ideas for Remote Working

18. Travel Scratch Map Deluxe

Remember the days when you put a pin on a world map to mark where you’ve been? Now there’s something better. The Luckies of London Scratch Map Deluxe has a gold foil layer that you can scratch off as you go and keep track of where you have been. Create your own wall art by showing off your travels and don’t worry about buying those pins to go with it. This is perfect for the person who is dreaming of traveling around the world.

19. Travel Cork Globe

This Cork Globe is the coolest gift idea for the travel lover to appreciate when at home. Your travel friends can pin all the places they’ve been onto this handy globe. The globe comes with 30 magnetic pins, but you can buy more from MapMagnet on Amazon.

20. Wall Art World Map

If a Scratch Map isn’t what you are looking for then you may like this Vintage Canvas World Map . At 20X40 it is perfect to hang in your home office or living room. Use it to plan future travels or as a conversation starter with friends about places you have already been.

21. Hotel Lobby Candles

Hotel lobby candle brand candles make an excellent gift for travelers due to their ability to trigger memories and emotions through scent, helping to bring back happy travel memories. These candles are conveniently portable and easy to pack in your carry-on, adding an element of comfort and hominess to any hotel room by creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Hotel lobby candles are known for their high quality, featuring long burn times and strong, pleasant scents that make them a luxurious and thoughtful gift.

Fun Travel Gifts for Women

I love all of these items even when I’m not traveling. But the items below are specially made to be lightweight, small, and easy to organize making them the perfect travel gear for women no matter what her taste is.

22. Seint Beauty Makeup

As my travels have changed from hard-core adventures to more urban and luxury as I age, I am now taking much better care of my skin. Luckily for me, my neighbor Uyen introduced me to the Seint Beauty system. Connect with Uyen on her Facebook Page for a colour match. This makeup was made for everyone’s skin at an affordable price. What I love about this is how it is all organized in one palette. I now have all my foundation, eye shadow, blush, contour, and concealer in one place. Add in a couple of brushes plus mascara, and now my travel makeup bag is small and manageable. Plus, I have never looked or felt better!

23. The Tangle Teezer

If you have long hair then I know you can relate to this one. Whether we are traveling to a tropical destination or trekking in the Himalayas my hair gets tangled. But, when I found the Tangle Teezer all that changed. This is the perfect stocking stuffer for a reasonable price. It is light, and compact and it works!

24. Silk Wrap

I can’t travel without a silk scarf. It keeps me warm on the plane when the air conditioning is cranked too high, it dresses up my evening outfit, and it keeps me modest when walking into a temple overseas. I have found that this particular Silk Scarf by Dana XU is the perfect combination of lightweight and soft. Your loved one will adore this unique idea.

25. Underwear Travel Organizer

Staying organized is a key factor in packing light. So having all my undergarments in one place is a must. I have ruined many a lovely bra during my travels by squishing them into my suitcase. Your loved one will appreciate this Fashion Portable Travel Organizer, I can organize all my undergarments and keep them neat and tidy in one place. This is one of the best gift ideas for travelers who want to stay organized.

26. Compression Socks

Compression socks help with circulation and leg exhaustion when traveling on long flights. If you have frequent travelers on your list these make perfect gifts. This Multi-Pack from CHARMKING will give you enough to last for several trips. Compression socks really help if your legs and feet are constantly tired from all that traveling. Compression socks are also recommended to help frequent travelers from developing DVT (Deep vein thrombosis) which is a blood clot in the leg. I know many a traveler that has developed this and it can be very dangerous. Compression socks help minimize the risk.

27. Hand-Held Portable Travel Fan

As a maturing woman, my hormones are all over the place and when traveling in hot countries or even feeling the heat on a plane or a train, I seek comfort with my handheld fan. The lady in your life will love this travel fan that is rechargeable for longer battery life via USB, has 5 speeds, and is portable. For long flights, I’ve noticed that the temperature changes often. I love having a fan nearby to help me when a hot flash comes on.

28. Neck Fan

I have also been wearing this neck fan to keep cool. It is less intrusive as most people think I am just wearing headphones. This has been a lifesaver for hot flashes while traveling on airplanes, buses, and trains.

29. Travel Jewelry Box

I love wearing necklaces and bracelets from my travels and while traveling. It’s my main travel souvenir. But I must admit, I lose them and get them tangled constantly. A travel jewelry roll bag is perfect for women who want to organize their rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. I don’t wear a lot of rings or earrings, so I prefer this rolling velvet clutch, but you can check them both out to see what is the best fit.

Cool Travel Gifts for Him

I had to consult Dave for this one. He owns every one of the items listed below. When I asked him what were some of his favorite travel gear for men, these were his choices.

30. Leather Toiletry Bag

A man needs to be organized and this Elviros Travel Toiletry Kit is a classy way to store all his toiletries in one place. It has two main compartments and 5 mesh pockets to keep everything in place. It comes with a handy strap so you can hang it anywhere and the zippers are heavy duty so this will last for a long time.

31. ExOfficio Men’s Give-n-go Boxer Brief

Underwear is always a personal choice, but once you try ExOfficio’s Men’s Give-n-go Boxer Brief these you won’t wear any other pair. Now, I know at first, underwear is not something you might think of giving, but if your husband or significant other is looking for comfort down there (I guarantee he is) then these make a great stocking stuffer.

I have used these for years and don’t travel with any other brand. They are comfortable, easy to wash, and dry quickly. Perfect for the male traveler in your life.

32. Arcteryx Delta LT Fleece

After 10 years of traveling full-time Dave has tried many fleece jackets and this one from Arcteryx comes out on top. It’s good for layering, comes in a few different colors and it is stylish enough that he can wear it out at night. Note: These usually fit a little small so you might want to order a size up as I did.

33. Nomad Passport Leather Travel Wallet

When we first started traveling, fashion was not really a priority for Dave. But as we have gotten older he is looking into things that not only have great functionality but also look good. A Passport Wallet fits the bill. It is top grain leather, comes with Tile Tracking, and fits up to 10 cards plus your passport and boarding passes. If you are looking for fashion and function this is one of the best travel gifts for your man.

34. Tilly Hat

The Tilly Hat is the best travel hat and we both own one. The wide brim protects your neck and face, and there’s plenty of ventilation to keep your head cool. It’s easy to clean too. If you know someone who does a lot of kayaking, hiking or spends a lot of time outdoors as we do then they will really appreciate this.

35. Travel Backpack

We love Peak Design and for a universal travel backpack, this unisex backpack makes for a great travel gift that can be used for day-tripping and sightseeing. A backpack is a travel essential whether you are using it for your luggage or for sightseeing. This travel backpack holds your camera gear and anything you need for a day out as a tourist. The stretchy external pockets can even be used as a water bottle pocket. You can open the bag from either side and it is safe and durable for travel.

Travel gear Ideas for Outdoor Adventurers

Travelers are very giving people. If you are looking for something unique to give during the holiday season, check out these Travel Charities – Gift Giving Ideas for the Holidays

36. USB Re-Chargeable Travel Headlamp

Having tried out many different headlamps over the years we have found Black Diamond to be the most reliable and the best value for your money. The Re-Volt from Black Diamond headlamp is rechargeable, durable, and water-resistant. It is the headlamp we use and recommend. This is the perfect gift for travelers and backpackers alike. It has so many uses and once you own one you will wonder how you traveled without it.

37. X-Brew Coffee Dripper

For Backcountry Campers or anyone who likes to go on camping trips, this X-Brew Coffee Dripper is a better option than the French Press. This lightweight collapsible coffee dripper comes with a collapsible mug and reusable filter. It all collapses down to smaller than a beverage coaster! When looking for gifts for that caffeine fanatic, backpacker or camper this is a superb choice.

38. Sea to Summit Dry Bag Set

You never know when you might need a dry bag in your travels. You may find you’re going on a water adventure or you might end up in a water festival in Thailand or Holi in India . The Sea to Summit dry bags are some of the most lightweight and durable ones around, and we have found they are the most reliable as well.

39. Leatherman Wave Multi-Tool

This is one of those adventure travel essentials that we don’t leave home without. It has come in handy on so many occasions. When you need a bottle opener, a screwdriver, a nail file, or a quick fix to the camera or travel gear this is our go-to tool. We use the Leatherman Wave but there is also a smaller version called the Leatherman Squirt . Any frequent traveler who takes on different adventures should have this in their backpack.

40. Wiseowl Portable Hammock

I was never really a “Hammock” kind of guy but when someone gave me one of these that all changed. This Wiseowl Portable Travel Hammock is lightweight and can be set up almost anywhere and man is it comfortable. Make sure to throw this in your backpack or suitcase for your next trip to the islands!

41. Steripen Water Purifier

We have used the Steripen in backcountry adventures all around the world. It is easy to use and helps us reduce the use of plastic water bottles. Fill your water bottle with lake water, tap water in a developing country or even a pond and you’ll have clean water in seconds! The Steripen purifies water in 90 seconds for a 1-litre bottle using UV light.

Best Gift Ideas for Travel Photographers

Do you have a budding travel photographer on your list? If so, then check out these best gifts for the traveler who loves photography. They are guaranteed to help them capture the best image possible on their next trip.

42. Lenspen Cleaning Pens

As a professional photographer, I know that keeping your lenses clean is a top priority. The last thing you want to see on your holiday photos is dust specks. I have been using the LensPen for years now and it has never let me down. This Pro Pack comes with 3 Lenspens that are safe, fast, and easy to use on any lens, filter, eyepiece, or LCD screen. It is everything you need to bring back sharp and clean images.

43. Travel Tripod

Versatility is something we look for in every piece of gear that we own and a tripod is no exception. Whether you want to capture beautiful shots of the Milky Way or just snap some great selfies while traveling solo every photographer should carry a tripod. The beauty of the Joby Gorillapod 3K is you can practically mount it anywhere. It is lightweight, has a ball head and it will support cameras up to 2.2 pounds. We use this on every trip and it has become a valuable addition to our camera kit.

44. Black Rapid Camera Strap

When it comes to camera accessories Black Rapid Sport Breathe Camera Strap is definitely my favorite piece of gear. This is the best-designed camera strap on the market. With a padded shoulder, an underarm strap for more comfort and stability, and a locking carabiner quick-release it covers all the bases. No more missing shots because your camera was in your bag. Be ready to capture any moment just by adding this to your camera gear.

45. Sony RX100 VII

Dave loves the Sony RX100 VII as a final addition to his two   DSLR Sony bodies. I use it for video and vlogging all the time! It fits great on my gimbal too keeping things lightweight but looking like a million bucks. With a Carl Zeiss lens and 20.1 megapixels, you’ll have professional-quality photos for a fraction of the price of other professional cameras. We love it. It’s small, lightweight, and easy to use and we often leave the bulky DSLRs behind for the day and use this as our camera to capture amazing travel photos.

Luxury Travel Gifts

No holiday travel gift list would be complete without including some ideas for the person who loves the finer things in life. These luxury travel gifts will help you choose the right present for the discerning traveler on your list this year.

46. Level8 Luggage for Traveling

I think we have tried every type of carry-on luggage out there over the years and we love this Pro Carry-on with Laptop Pocket   by Level8. We felt so chic going through the airport with these hard cases and modern design and it was easy t o pop out my laptop and documents right from the front of my carry-on when going through security.

For our checked bags, our yellow Voyageur Check-In 28′ turned heads. We didn’t worry about anyone mixing up our bags on the conveyor belt with our unique color and design. We found the 28-inch a bit too large, but you can order 24′ or 26′. But with the large handle and ultra-quite 360° spinner wheels it was super easy to navigate through the airport.

• On a personal note, my hard case carry on fell from the top of a van on my trip and because my laptop was secure in the front hard case pocket, it wasn’t damaged. That was a huge relief. Save 10% off all products with the code ThePlanetD10

47. Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones

I have used the Beats Studio 3 Wireless Headphones for years but recently bought myself a pair of AirPods Pro and have really fallen in love with them. They are much smaller and more lightweight than my previous noise cancellation headphones and with the advanced noise-canceling technology, the comfortable ear pads, and great quality sound out there these make long-haul plane flights bearable.

You can control the volume and skip songs at the touch of a finger and they don’t cover your ears so they are easy to sleep with. One other thing I found cool is that you can use the charging container as a phone holder to watch movies as well.

48. Kindle Paperwhite

With a glare-free display, the Kindle Paperwhite is like reading on paper. Even in the sunlight. It is much easier than carrying around heavy books. Plus it is waterproof, and the battery lasts for hours. Load it with some of your favorite travel books and give this bestseller to the travel lover in your life. Get this gift so the traveler in your life can pack light, but still read lots of books. You can just pop it into your carry-on and it takes up no space!

49. Sony Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

If you are someone who watches a lot of movies on their laptop or just likes to turn up the audio, the Sony Waterproof Portable Speaker is a luxury you will want to take with you. It is small enough that is doesn’t take up a lot of room it is waterproof and dustproof so it is durable and it has great sound quality. Many of the other speakers out there may claim to have crisp sound but this speaker actually lives up to the hype.

Best Travel Gifts – Fast and Easy

50. get your guide gift card.

We just gave my nephew some GetYourGuide experiences for his honeymoon and it went over swimmingly. By giving a GetYourGuide gift card, you provide the recipient with the flexibility to choose their preferred tour based on their travel plans and personal preferences. They can browse through different options, read reviews, and select activities that align with their specific needs

51. Luggage Tags

People love it when their luggage looks good when traveling. Luggage tags are a necessity to help you identify your bags and these Smart ID DynoTag Web Enabled Luggage Tags take things up a notch and are a great addition to traditional luggage tags. The tag shows the contact and other information you set up so that viewers contact you to arrange pick up.

52. Passport Holder 

I love my PACSafe RFID passport holder. I tend to like having everything at my fingertips and this passport holder not only holds my travel documents, it holds all my credit cards, travel cards, money, and change. The RFID protection keeps my valuables safe and with plenty of compartments and zippers, I have everything I need for travel at my fingertips. 

53. Passport Cover

If you want to give a stocking stuffer or something in a gift bag, this leather passport cover is a practical gift for family and friends. It is less bulky than the passport holder, specifically designed to hold travel documents plus compartments for ticket slot, 2 SIM Card Slots, 3 card slots, and a 4X3 inches clear card slot.

54. GoToobs

We love using our GoToobs when traveling. These refillable tubes are perfect to put in your carry-on and fill with liquids from body wash to shampoo and any other small-size liquid you will want to have on you for international travel.

55. Laptop Sleeve

We are all traveling with more electronics these days and they can take a beating on planes or trains. A Laptop Sleeve protector is one of the best travel gift ideas for business travelers or digital nomads. I have had carryons fall from the top of busses onto cement and fall off transportation, if my laptop wasn’t in a padded laptop sleeve, I can guarantee it would have been ruin

And those are the best travel gifts for 2024. I hope you enjoyed all of our travel gifts and found something for the traveler or loved one in your life. Whether you are budget-conscious or a luxury traveler or you are just looking for a fun travel gift for a special occasion we can recommend all of the items above because we actually own them.

Looking for more great travel tips and content?

If you liked our round-up of the best gifts for travelers for this holiday season then why not check out some other great travel posts that will be sure to help you out on your next trip?

• Travel Charities – Gift-Giving Ideas for the Holidays
• 32 of the Best Gifts for Outdoor Lovers and Adventurers
• 30 Best Work-From-Home Gifts – Great Ideas for Remote Working
• Christmas in New York – What to do in NYC for the Holidays
• Best Travel Organizers for Smarter Packing
• The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)
• Packing for Travel – 6 Tips to Make Your Trip a Breeze
• Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In My Camera Bag?
• The Best Travel Gear – Unique Ideas for Smart Packing
• 24 Best Travel Books to Inspire the Wanderer in You

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. We receive affiliate commissions, but it’s no extra cost to you!

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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13 Best Adventure Travel Books to Inspire Wanderlust

33 of the Best Gifts for Outdoor Lovers and Adventurers

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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139 thoughts on “55 Best Gifts for Travelers in 2024 – By Travel Experts”

I appreciate the positive and inclusive community you have built around your blog.

Very informative gifts list for 2023

Your travel gifts are very interesting and different I like it so much…Keep Sharing!

The Collapsible Water Bottle would be the most helpful travel tool for me. Need a gift for a friend too, thx a lot for the list. Nice selection of gifts.

The list was very helpful. you listed everything!!! , I love traveling with my speakers as well. I have seen the passport book holder as well.

Thank you so much for sharing amazing travel themed gifts.

Thank you so much for sharing amazing travel gifts, its really help me a lot in selecting a gift for my husband

The list was very helpful. you listed everything!!! Lol, I love traveling with my speakers as well. I have seen the passport book holder as well.

Amazing list. You have just made this list wonderful from the start. Thanks for sharing it that’s truly valuable knowledge about a similar topic. Amazing. Have a more successful day. Amazing write-up always finds something interesting.

I love the world map pendant. its a unique item to have. Even though you cannot travel around the world still having a pendant is good to have.

What a great reading for choosing the best gift for travel lovers. I really enjoy this amazing article. I was looking for the best gift for my friend and this article helps me a lot for choosing the best one. Thank you for sharing this wonderful article.

Thank you for sharing this wonderful post …I enjoyed reading this thoroughly about Travel gifts …keep sharing such informative article

Thanks For Sharing It’s Really an Amazing Article I enjoyed to read. this is Best Gifts For All Travelers.

Thanks For Sharing Awesome Article For Gifts Of Travelers i am Hardly finding this on internet

A really nice article for travel crazy people. Now they know what they can carry with them while travelling. Awesome informative.

I find some of your gift ideas are quite useful for travelers. In this pandemic time, a face mask is certainly one of them. Another extremely useful item is a portable power bank. This emergency charge supplier is extremely useful for any globe trotter.

Really nice article i am happy to read this and thanks for sharing.

Good list. I like everything on the list. I like reading your posts. Keep up the good work! You realize, many persons are searching round for this information, you can help them greatly. Thank, Dave and Deb.

Love this amazing reading of gift ideas for traveler. This is best guide for me as I want to give a gift to my friend who are a traveler. Thank you for sharing it.

Is this time mask is the best gift I think. BTY nice blog post.

Thanks. We thought it is was one of the best travel gifts for this year that is fo sure.

A really nice gifting list you got there. Was looking for a gift idea for my friend’s birthday and landed right here and must say i am not disappointed. Thanks for sharing the list with us. Keep up the good work.

We tried to put together a really comprehensive list that includes al the best gifts for travelers. Glad you liked it!

Honestly, a lot of those travel gifts for women are great. Yes, they are archetypically female, but it sounds like he based the list on women he polled. I think what some of the female readers were hoping to point out was that most of the items mentioned in the female section were pointedly appealing and useful to women alone, and none necessarily engaged the mind or body. While the male section, barring a few items , women would genuinely find equal interest in, so could have easily gone into the “everyone” section. This list is helpful and is meant with only good intentions. Looks like most are taking it as such.

Very true. We tried to break things up a bit to give people some organization, but I agree, I would use all of them as well!

Great list, a lot of cool ideas there! How about adding a translator like Travis or Pocketalk? I’m thinking to get one for my dad but I’m waiting for Black Friday offers. Keep up the good work Matt 🙂

Translators are a good idea. We prefer Google Translate ourselves, I haven’t tried the ones you suggest.But thanks for sharing!

Best Collection, Awesome Blog.

Excellent content and unique information to know about the 50 useful travel gifts for 2020 .Keep it up! Great post!thanks for share it

This is a really great list and I love the look of the hammock 🙂

Cheers again

Wow, this is such a great list. Thank you for sharing it in such an organized way. Loved the detailed list.

Wonderful. I am get some of these gifts for myself. I just love this list. Thank you so much for sharing.

Thank you for sharing such a unique list. You always impress us. The one thing that stands apart from the list and my personal favorite would be the GOPRO HERO 8 BLACK. This is the best partner you could take along while traveling or while gifting something to a traveler this is the best choice one could get, as it helps in catching all the memories that would remain with you forever. The one and the only thing i would like to add to this list is the City Map Glass. If your dad’s a whiskey drinker who likes to travel, this custom city map glass is about as thoughtful a gift as it gets. The best part is it’s personalized (which will make it even more special). Yo get to choose his favorite city to get etched into the glass, so every time he has a drink, he’ll reminisce on his best memories.

I got the same world map pillow! Its a shame that it looks better than feels=) However they were made for visual pleasure and they do their job

Pop Fashion Hidden Pocket Scarves also look better than feels, but does its job=) Pretty nice thing, especially when you and on tours and trips

Very nice information, your blog is awesome thanks for sharing such a nice information .

These are very nice gift ides love them and especially the last idea. keep it up

Your travel gifts are very interesting and different I like it so much…Keep Sharing!

I would like to give my friend some amazing collection of flowers. And unbreakable cup. Thanks for you ideas for travel gifts.

Great ideas! Really it’s a tough job when it’s come to gifts. this makes me feel so happy and i really like the travel journal idea.

Hey Dave & Deb!

Love this list of gifts for travelers. As a website that’s dedicated exclusively to finding awesome gifts, we enjoyed going through your finds! We actually also have a travel gift guide as well and have also included popular travel-related items like a travel scratch map and the Kindle. Other cool items we’ve discovered include a filtered water bottle and a collapsible electric kettle!

Looking forward to more awesome posts!

Wow, great gift ideas. It’s a meaningful guide for me to choose a gift.

This is a great list of gifts. I have already selected few and they are going to be with me on my next backpacking trip. Thank you for this article!

I love your travel gifts, This list is great & amazing. very helpful. Thanks

My favorite gadget that was bought for me was a foldable solar panel the you can clip to the back of your pack to charge stuff while on the move. The solar panel charged an integrated battery which in turn charged things like my phone and tablet. I take that thing everywhere.

Great Post. Thanks for Sharing such best ideas for gifts

Great gift!

Interesting and brilliant post…I think GPS trackers also a good gift for travelers ..What you think?

love all of them, thank you so much for sharing.

What a great list with lots of variety! Thank you for such brilliant ideas!Awesome Pictures! Keep it up! Great post! I’m definitely going to bookmark this.

Really loved the way you explained everything.Thank you So Much for the Article and for sharing such beautiful pictures. Keep Blogging!!

Hi, thanks for sharing ideas and an awesome great list for a gift.

Wow, great ideas for travel gifts. It’s a meaningful guide for me to choose a gift.

Awesome gift guide, as always! Loved that piggy bank so much we included it in our own gift guide and gave you a shout-out for your good taste and travel savvy : ) Also congrats on your gorgeous new photography prints and thank you so much for including our books, Ultimate Journeys for Two and Comfortably Wild!

The most I loved was the go pro.. Great list…

Brilliant list of travel gifts, with plenty to consider. Thanks for sharing.

Awesome! Thanks for sharing..

Being a travel geek myself I would love to have these gifts. These are absolutely great. Thanks for sharing these wonderful gift ideas. There are many things in the list which are pretty useful while traveling.

You pretty much covered everything on my Christmas list haha. Some cheap gift ideas could be some compression socks or eye mask with ear plugs. Thanks

But I want so many of these things for myself. What then?!?

This list is great. I love your gift ideas. Thanks

Thank you guys SOOOOO much for featuring our new book “Comfortably Wild”. You are the best! Now, let’s find a place to go glamping together!!!!

Informative best gifts list. I am very grateful to you for sharing a very important list.

The hammock looks great! How about a travel translator like Travis or Pocketalk? I’ve been meaning to buy one for my sister who loves to go on weekend trips around Europe.

Amazing list! I especially like the map and globe design – I had to go ahead and order one for myself. Keep up the great work!

If someone handover to me to select the best gift for a traveller, I would select Go Pro Hero 7. And I’m damn sure s/he will be happy after getting this kind of gift. Because an action camera is mandatory for a traveller nowadays. Travellers move from here to there and captured their memory, scenery and other things by a camera. In this way, Go Pro 7 is the best option. The quality of this camera is outstanding.

This is a great ideas, Thanks for sharing such an useful Information 🙂

The world map pendant looks interesting. Also, the collapsible water bottle is neat.

Hey guys, Amazing post! I liked that you have mentioned the gifts of all budget type. I really like that map pillow and glasses ideas.

Great list, I have the Power Bank and its saved me so many times!

The travel journal is a cool idea! Might get one.

One question when I am going to get a gift then ?:p

A waterproof iPhone case is a must. Nice list!

great blog. this may be the best gift for sharing this gift ideas

Very wonderful gifts and I like you rated I was very impressed by the gifts and special gifts that contained the maps it also fit geography lovers like me 🙂 Thank you very much for these tips that are of interest to any tourist in this world

Now this is what I call a great extensive guide for travel shoping. Usually these lists consist of 5-10 items, but you went the whole way and prepared 50. Thank you so much, I’m sure I’ll be returning to this list a few times in the future, ha-ha 🙂

very good and authentic things are describe in this blog it is very useful idea for me thanks for sharing.

I Love This Blog. Thanks for Sharing Amazing List

Thanks For Sharing Its is Awesome Gift List

Great list… With one exception (assuming gift recipient is traveling by air)…

I can name 3 different airports where that “Leatherman Multi-Tool” would get snatched by airport security (TSA in the U.S.A. and/or airport security worldwide) if carried in one’s pocket or in a carry-on…

The list is good, everyone will find the appropriate gift for an outdoorlover. The handspresso is a nice gift idea, thank you for sharing.

Great ideas thank you so much for sharing with us.

I wait for go pro hero 7 for my epic asian 2019 adventure, thank for share information

How about an Exway Electric Skateboard to cruise around on when you get to where you are going

Travel map is so underrated…always so cool to see everywhere you have been out on a map!

Wow and double wow. Spent a while perusing the list. Ended up ordering the World Map coasters. Thanks for sharing.

Just added a gimbal to my wishlist! Thanks for the specific recommendation (I hate sorting through reviews!)

Astounding Post! Every gifts are fascinating. Your endeavors are truly calculable. A debt of gratitude is in order for sharing this post. Incredible blessing guide for all sort of explorers. Particularly for him and her.

Amazing Post….!!! Each and Every gift is interesting. Your efforts are seriously appreciable. Thanks for sharing this post.

Excellent article just in time for Christmas shopping!

Great list, You mentioned all the things that a traveler need. I have a 30,000 mAh power bank which helps me lot to be in the cellular network.

Great gift guide for all type of travelers. Especially the Go Pro Hero 6

I must admit you have some excellent gift ideas here. I have long been searching gift ideas and I finally found all the information i needed. Thanks for sharing.

Finally a blog that has so many wonderful and out of the box ideas for gifts for travellers. One of my best buddies is always on the move and I have been wondering what to give him for his birthday. I guess my search ends here! The global SIM card is indeed a very useful gift that I am going to go for.

Great gift guide for travelers all kinds.

Global sim card should be 1, 2, 3 in terms of importance for me 🙂 Def a must have. The solar power bank is also crucial. Great curated holiday gift list for the traveler.

Hey, great article! Found it very useful. I just want to add Rowkin earbuds to this list. Got one from my brother a few months ago and just loving it. Will look forward for next articles. Thanks.

These are fun travel gifts indeed, I absolutely love this list! My favorite one is probably the handspresso x)

Awesome list for travelers. Thank you so much for sharing it.

Great post and list of best gifts. Thanks for sharing such a good information

This list of accessories is very awesome and great for a traveler who has a true travel passion, thanks for sharing this detailed post.

Thanks for sharing a great list and ideas for best gifts for travelers. Happy holidays!

Awesome list of gifts for travelers! This is really amazing idea and inspiration. Thanks for sharing it.

Great gift list! I love seeing everyone’s recommendations each year for gifts for travelers! I just posted my “top 5” on my website too 🙂

Scratch Map Deluxe and Collapsable Water Bottle are fun gifts for travellers.

Awesome list! Thanks.

I joined Gaia Yoga as soon as I saw it on your list. I have a few of their DVD’s and now can have it with me anywhere.

Wicked. Glad we could give you the idea to join!

Great list! This is very useful for us. Thank you for sharing these great ideas. Great job.

Awesome list of gifts for travelers and very good idea to share this list with your readers.

The most I loved was the drone, hopefully this year ganhr a srsrsr gift!

Awesome list guys! Might actually pick up a couple of these things for myself 🙂

Great list, I have the Portable Power Bank and its saved me many times!

It’s the best isn’t it?

Amazing Post! thanks for sharing.

Thank you for sharing . Wishing you Merry Christmas and Happy holidays!!

love this post. Thank you for this inspiration. 🙂 I hope I get one of those gifts. 🙂

Thanks! Have a happy holidays!

Decent list of goodies! Hard to choose unless you drive a campervan so you can take em all… Still waiting for my Mavic Pro to take on travels numbero one on the list!

Thanks for sharing such a good information. It is very much helpful for all travelers.

Truly great list! I loved magnetic globe & memory card holder. Thanks for sharing. It would be useful to gift travelers for this Christmas. Thanks again 🙂

All the gift idea for travellers are really good and all are very very useful for them.

I had gifted that DJI Mavic Pro to one of my friend long back. He really liked it too much and after 2 years also if we meet then again and again he says thanks for that amazing moving camera. It was costly for me (at $1250 i got that time) but i am very happy that my best friend is happy to use it.

Great posts! How do you always come up with such unique ideas?

hank you for sharing your blog

I love giving the Karmin T70 hair clippers as a gift 😉

Great post! I’ll be forward this to my family for some holiday shopping ideas. 🙂 I’m also really looking forward to the Pilot from Waverly Labs, which is an earpiece that translates foreign languages in real time. It sounds too-good-to-be-true, but the tech seems legit. While it might take away a bit of the fun from learning new languages, can you imagine the kind of interactions you’d be able to have with non-English speaking locals? What time to be alive!

I would love about…oh, 90% of the stuff on this list, even though in a few cases I already have something very similar to it already. Some would actually be great for the occasional travelers on this list or the many campers we have in my husband’s family. Thanks for providing some inspiration for my upcoming Christmas shopping!

Good list. I like everything on the list. Thank you for sharing these great ideas 😀

your post always different,i like it so much,all gadgets in your collection are good,thank you for sharing your blog………

Thank you for a long thoughtful list of gifts!

These gadgets are useless, though. Fun to own but no real value. Dumb.

If you want to read some practical travel gear, we have many posts on that. This is a post about Gifts for Travelers. I always think of gifts as being something you would love to have but not necessarily need. Nobody needs a magnetic globe, but they are sure fun to have. You can find more gear we love in our packing tips section. https://theplanetd.com/category/travel-tips/packing-tips/

Awesome list guys. We would love a lot of them in our stocking. We are massive fans of the Sony RX100 series. We had the mark 2 and that was amazing, I can’t imagine what the mark 5 is like. Definitely would love the Mavic. Cheers for the great post.

Great resource, i will use this list for birthday present 🙂

Great idea this list ) Have to say we either have most of these articles or were planning to buy them. Btw love the world map pendant =))

The 31 Best Travel Gifts for Anyone With Wanderlust

Send them off in style with these thoughtful—and practical—picks.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

Any self-proclaimed travel junkie will probably tell you that joy comes from more than the journey alone. I happen to be one of those people, plus I spent more than a decade geeking out over all things travel for work as a travel editor. I get excited about dopp kits and passport cases and testing new noise-canceling headphones on a 12-hour flight. Most travelers shudder at the thought of packing 10 days of stuff in a carry-on ; I see it as a fun challenge. I also know firsthand that the right travel gear and accessories can make or break a trip.

And: there's even more on the line when you're buying a travel gift. Giving someone a rolling duffle in a color they hate may bum them out. Giving someone a rolling duffle with wheels that break en route may put a serious damper on their vacation. Rather than wing it, read on for a lineup of travel editor-approved travel gifts for all the globetrotters on your list.

Looking for more great holiday gifts? Check out our picks for the best gifts for gamers , the best tech gifts and the best last-minute gifts .

Tripped Travel Gear Toiletry Bag Set

You can’t count on ample counter space in every hotel room, which is why buying a hanging toiletry bag is such a smart move.

This three-piece set features a detachable 3-1-1 TSA-compliant liquid bag, along with a zippered pouch that’s large enough to hold a pair of men’s flip-flops. There are multiple mesh pockets inside and an outer pocket for quick-grab items.

Mark & Graham Essential Tech Folio

Keep devices, chargers, and wires neatly stowed and organized inside this leather zip-around tech folio. It’s available in two sizes and four colors (both with enough space for a tablet and a smartphone) and plenty of pockets and slipcases on both sides. Plus, shadow-print monogramming costs an extra $12.50.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

This compact universal travel adapter will charge up to six high-powered devices in more than 150 countries and weighs only 5 ounces. It features four USB ports and a 15-watt USB-C port, plus it offers overload protection.

Espro Ultralight French Press

This portable 16-ounce coffee press weighs only 7.4 ounces and features a microfilter to ensure no grit or sludge ends up in a cup of joe. It’s made of stainless steel and BPA-free plastic, and its double-wall vacuum insulation keeps contents piping hot. There are six colors to choose from, including this eye-catching green.

EverSnug Travel Blanket

Unless they’re a business-class traveler, scoring a blanket isn’t always a given. So give them this cozy gift, which has a pass-through sleeve to attach it to a carry-on’s handle.

The plush polyester blanket tucks inside the zippered case for storage (which can double as a pillow), and there’s also a carabiner to keep it handy in flight. The two-piece set comes in five colors, all with the cute airplane and suitcase stitched on front.

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

It’s always a good idea to throw a fold-up bag into your carry-on for unplanned purchases. This one from Paravel is ultra-lightweight and zips into an integrated pouch that packs flat. It’s made of 22 upcycled plastic water bottles and is available in six colors, with monogram options ranging from $15 to $35.

Apple Beats Fit Pro With Noise Cancelling

Noise cancellation is a must while traveling, and these cute earbuds will do just that. They also deliver excellent sound and their flexible wingtip design makes the comfortable to wear for a long flight. They come with two years of AppleCare+ to boot.

Paravel Packing Cube Quads

This attractive set of four packing cubes from Paravel will keep toiletries, gear, and clothing organized. They’re lightweight nylon, made of repurposed plastic bottled and feature contrast piping, vegan leather zipper pulls, and a clear panel on top to see what's inside.

TRX All-in-One Suspension Trainer Bundle

This all-in-one suspension system equipment set lends itself to getting in a full-body resistance-training workout anywhere. It includes a main suspension strap with handles and two anchor straps, plus there are locking loops and hand and foot cradles for standing- and floor-based exercise.

The set comes with a 35-page workout guide and includes access to live virtual studio classes thought the app. All the components pack into a small drawstring pouch.

Malin + Goetz Travel Kit

Tuck this colorful collection of travel-sized products in a carry-on to pass on whatever random-brand products are in the hotel bathroom. The set includes five 1-fluid-ounce tubes of Malin + Goetz’s hair, body, and face products and comes in a clear slide-lock pouch.

Welly First Aid Kit

Everything from adhesive strips in fun patterns to ibuprofen is packed inside this bright, appealing first aid tin, with a snap closure to ensure contents stay secure. All the components are individually wrapped and neatly organized in sections, and the kit is available in several sizes and styles, depending on what your giftee has in store for their trip.

Garmin Instinct Outdoor Watch

Garmin’s ultra-popular entry-level Instinct GPS watch comes in a range of styles and colors and boasts a three-axis compass and barometric altimeter. There’s also a trackback feature to help with navigation and preloaded training activity profiles.

Mark & Graham Passport Case and Luggage Tag Set

This vegan leather passport case and luggage tag set comes in five colors, with tons of shadow-printed monogram options. So even if the days of dressing up to travel may be long gone, your luggage will look good and you’ll always know where your important documents are.

Pinch Provisions Hemergency Kit for Men

There are 30 must-have travel essentials tucked inside this mini dopp kit. You’ll find bandages, pain reliever, and other first-aid gear, grooming tools, and all those small items to save you in a pinch, like extra cufflinks and shoe shine towelettes. There’s also a Minimergency Kit for Her .

Joby GorillaPod Tripod and Phone Mount

Forget the selfie stick and opt for this versatile gadget to get the best vacation shots. The flexible tripod and phone mount are compact and support devices up to 2.2 pounds, and the locking phone clamp mount rotates to portrait and landscape positions. The removable ball head can also fit on standard-size tripods.

Etekcity Luggage Scale

This may be more of a stocking stuffer than a gift to put under the tree, but it’s an important one. Prevent your travel-loving friend from getting slapped with extra fees for overweight baggage with this pocket-size luggage scale. It has a 110-pound weight capacity and a highly accurate digital sensor, plus it comes in a bunch of fun colors.

JETech Laptop Case with Small Bag

This well-designed laptop sleeve features a tuck-away top-handle and zippered outer pocket, plus it’s paired with a small wrist strap bag to stash a smartphone, a charger, and other accessories. There’s a top-loading zipper to accommodate laptops up to 14 inches, while the inside is lined with protective foam and soft flannel.

Anker PowerCore Slim Portable Charger

It’s a rookie move to travel without a power bank. Anker’s 10,000-mAh portable PowerCore Slim combines a 65-watt wall charger and a 10,000-mAh portable charger in one compact package. It features two USB-C and one USB-A port, and it weighs less than a pound.

Comrad Compression Socks

Compression socks are essential for preventing swollen lower legs and feet during and after a long flight. Comrad’s stylish options for men and women include this classic striped pair, along with more than a dozen other options if your giftee prefers something more muted.

Herschel Charlie RFID Card Case Wallet

An RFID-blocking wallet is another essential to protect sensitive credit card information while traveling. Herschel’s Charlie card case is a popular pick for its slim design and style, featuring multiple slots and a top sleeve, plus the brand’s signature striped liner.

Rachel Klein is the Deputy Editor of Popular Mechanics.

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53 Best Gifts for Women Who Love to Travel

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Finding the perfect present for the women in your life is by no means an easy feat. There are plenty of routes to take—sentimental, funny, over-the-top—but the best gifts for women are those that combine their individual interests with functionality, ensuring your recipient will not only enjoy the gift, but also get great use out of it. To make the hunt a little less stressful, we compiled 50-plus of the best gifts for women who love to travel and sorted them by category. Whether your recipient is most interested in food , tech gadgets, beauty products, or the latest fashion trends, we’ve scoured the internet to find something special they’ll appreciate—and no, we wouldn’t blame you if you ended up snapping one or more of these gift ideas for yourself.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Our top picks:

• For the frequent flier: Ralph Lauren Cable Cashmere travel set
• For the chic traveler: Cuyana Easy tote
• For the homebody: Four Seasons Slumber set
• For the new parent: Hatch Rest Go portable sound machine
• For anyone on your list: Diptyque Paris roses candle

Find the best gifts for her by category:

• Luggage & travel accessories
• Beauty & skincare
• Clothing & shoes

Tech essentials

• Home & kitchen

Luggage, bags, & travel accessories

Any traveler—frequent flier or not—can benefit from one (or more!) of the below pieces of luggage , bags, and accessories. Founded and designed by Traveler contributor and mom Jordi Lippe-McGraw , PAK Rêve’s Wilder Bundle is especially ideal for families looking to stay organized during their travels. Your giftee can also keep their suitcase clutter-free by utilizing handy travel accessories like timeless leather travel pouches, a space-saving hanging toiletry bag, or even a set of leakproof magnetic capsules.

Additionally, to make the in-flight experience all the more enjoyable and relaxing, splurge on a sumptuous cashmere travel set complete with a blanket, eye mask, and zippered storage pouch for convenient carrying. Alternatively, treat your giftee to a weighted sleep mask or memory foam pillow so they can catch some zzz’s ( even in a dreaded middle seat! ).

Need even more inspiration? Consider snagging a chic passport holder , a Traveler -favorite belt bag , a customizable piece of luggage that’ll last for years, or an uber-versatile weekender bag that’s perfect for shorter sojourns.

Shown in beige

Beauty & skincare products

Surprise and delight your lucky gift recipient with something they’ll truly love and use—both at home, on the go, and away on vacation. You can’t go wrong gifting timeless skincare staples like good ol’ SPF (especially one from beloved brand Supergoop ) or a soothing, sensitive-skin-approved, redness-banishing facial spray they can spritz on mid-flight.

Hydration is the name of the travel game, especially on airplanes where cabin air is dry and humidity levels are low. That’s where nourishing lip balms and skin salves come into play, both of which make excellent gifts. Meanwhile, beauty enthusiasts of all ages will appreciate tried-and-true essentials like a botanical-infused hair care set that’s TSA-approved, or a restorative hair mask to combat dry and dehydrated strands, which can happen all too often when globetrotting.

Travel-friendly clothing & shoes

When it comes to fashion, comfort is key—and some things just never go out of style. It’s always a good idea to stock up on travel-friendly wardrobe staples , including cute joggers , everyday leggings , and blanket scarves to keep you warm and toasty in flight. Alternatively, present your giftee with a full loungewear set , our uniform for long-haul flights. Last but not least, don’t forget about footwear. When it comes to gifting, options abound, from supportive walking shoes to versatile ballet flats , which, yes, are officially back in style.

Tech-savvy travelers are sure to love the following gifts: A portable sound machine , which easily clips onto backpacks, diaper bags, and totes, makes it easy for kids and adults alike to snooze (almost) anywhere. Wearable tech, including Oura Rings and Apple Watches, is functional and, frankly, pretty neat, tracking biometrics like heart rate, step count, sleep, and more. Meanwhile, a quality pair of noise-canceling headphones can come in especially handy on plane, train, and car rides filled with screaming children, chatty seatmates, and, well, you get the gist.

Allow your giftee to enhance their in-flight entertainment set-up with a Bluetooth wireless transmitter, which lets them pair their wireless headphones to the seatback entertainment system without purchasing a pair of wired headphones while in the air. Finally, a tech accessory travel storage case will help keep wires and cables organized and tangle-free throughout the duration of their trip.

Home & kitchen items

These home and kitchen accessories will inspire wanderlust all year long. Highlights include scented candles and a fragrance diffuser set from one of our favorite hotel brands. In the kitchen, your giftee can enjoy at-home sushi nights, home-cooked Italian pasta courtesy of an incredible pasta maker that rolls and cuts the dough into traditional shapes like lasagna and taglioni, and authentic French press coffee reminiscent of the cups you’d find in a Parisian cafe. Other honorable mentions include a glossy travel-themed coffee-table book that’s chic enough to double as decor and a splurge-worthy sheet set from none other than the Four Seasons, transforming any ol’ bedroom into a luxury suite.

Gourmands will especially love one of these food-centric gifts , which lets them savor the flavors of the world from the comfort of home. For breakfast and brunch, they can feast on bagels and lox from NYC staple Russ & Daughters, while Lauduree’s French macaroons make the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. Similarly, sweet tooths can indulge in Belgian chocolate courtesy of Neuhaus; the 24-piece Collection Box is filled with a combination of pralinés, ganaches, and caramels that are (essentially) edible works of art. Meanwhile, those craving a sweet taste of Italy will especially enjoy the Pastificio G. Di Martino x Dolce & Gabbana Picnic Tin, which is filled with five one-pound pasta bags plus two picnic print placemats. If your giftee likes to try a bit of everything, snag them a snack box filled with Turkish delights, or, for something savory, a gourmet assortment of French cheeses coupled with smoked salmon, pork paté, trout roe, and French-made blinis.

Need some more inspo? Check out Traveler's  Amazon Storefront  for even more of our favorite travel gifts.

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53 Gifts For Travel Lovers That They’ll Actually Want In 2024

Last Updated August 19, 2024 William Tang

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Whether it’s for the holiday season or for a special occasion such as a birthday, these are simply awesome gifts for travel lovers in your life that suit all budgets.

A lot has changed in the travel space this past year but that doesn’t mean the wanderlust has fizzled away for the intrepid globetrotter (which could be you who’s reading this).

Read more about my favourite gear

• Camping gift ideas for outdoor lovers
• Kammok Arctos Review – Is this ultralight quilt worth it?
• Why the Keen Newport H2’s are the best travel sandals
• Review of Rainbow flip flops
• Our best packing lists
• Best travel hacking credit cards for Canadians

How to get the best deals in travel

• Hottest deals  – Bookmark the  travel deals page .
• Car rentals  – stop getting ripped off and  learn about car rental coupon codes .
• Hotels  – Use  corporate codes  or get  Genius 2 tier  with Booking.
• Flights  – Have you ever heard of the  “Everywhere” feature ?
• Insurance  – Make sure you’re covered and learn more about  where to buy the best travel insurance .

In This Article

Travel Gifts That Will Impress

Essential travel gifts under $100, gift ideas for travellers under $25, cheap gifts for travel lovers under $15, unique travel gifts for men, travel gifts women will love, luxury travel gifts for travelers, gifts for travellers that can’t travel right now, best gifts for the travel photographer, useful gifts for those that love outdoor adventure, frequently asked questions, travel resources for your next trip, gifts for travel lovers buying guide in 2023.

I’ve been blogging for almost 9 years now and what goes in mine and my wife’s backpack has changed in some ways but has also stayed the same.

As a serial traveller, I’m always carefully analyzing what makes the cut for trips whether it’s travel gadgets, clothing, backpacks, and comfort items.

This is not going to be your generic “holiday gift guide” list but things that are legit useful and gifts I would actually want.

We’ve shared my travel toolbox in the past and also created a guide on camping gift ideas but here is my list of the best gift ideas for all types of travellers that’ll surely impress. They’re practical, useful, and thoughtful.

What we’ve done is categorize this list into different categories and budgets to help you navigate. Enjoy!

1: Db Ramverk Luggage

If you’re looking for a gift that’ll really have them go “WOW” when you give it to them, there’s nothing more useful than a quality piece of luggage.

Db is a company founded by Norway and I’ve fallen in love with their gear ever since their the Db Strøm (later renamed to the Hugger Rollerbag) and Ramverk Backpack Pro that I featured in our practical camping gift ideas list .

When they came out with their new line of hard-shell suitcases, I knew I had to give it a try and honestly it’s been life-changing. The one featured above is the Db Ramverk Check-in Luggage Medium in Parhelion Orange . The color is stunning, it’s rugged as heck, the inner organization is so clutch, and it handles like a dream.

If you think someone is in the market to finally get rid of their old luggage and do a proper upgrade, look no further!

The entire Ramverk Luggage line consists of a front-access carry-on ($499 USD), the carry-on ($399 USD), check-in medium ($599 USD), and check-in large ($699 USD). They also ship to Canada with duties and shipping included!

CHECK PRICES

2: The Wander Club

Are you or know someone that’s obsessed about travel? This is an ingenious idea to be able to display, keep track, and remember your adventures. A rugged leather keychain holds a ring of stainless-steel tokens that can have anything from countries, cities, states, landmarks, oceans, seas, national parks, or something custom (think special events and dates).

It’s like your world map with pins but in your pocket. You can proudly display it at home or have it hanging on your backpack.

We got one recently and wanted to show you a few more detailed photos of the token holder in Forest green and also the Country Tokens and Gold Custom Tokens . To start things off, I’ve ordered all the countries I’ve visited in the past 3 years and bookmarked by “Going” and “Places” gold tokens – see what I did there?

What I love about this is that there’s an endless number of ways to keep your memories together in a compact form-factor. The holder displays a high level of craftsmanship with the hand stitching and painted sides. The leather engraving with silver foil is really sweet and its imprinted with my initials as a monogram as well!.

As a bonus, every order also provides a meal to a child in need as part of the Rice Bowls non-profit .

I’ve been able to secure a 20% discount for my readers by using code GAPWANDERCLUB . This is a larger discount than what they offer as a e-mail sign up offer so make sure you take advantage! Get your collection started today!

3: Inspirational Travel Books

If you’re looking for a great gift idea for that traveler in your life, don’t sleep on a great book that can uplift, inspire, and most importantly, get up and just go !

Fellow travel bloggers and perpetual honeymooners, Mike and Anne Howard from HoneyTrek have two incredible books:

• Ultimate Journeys for Two
• Comfortably Wild

These two books are great for newlyweds, couples, and any outdoor/adventure enthusiast!

4: Eagle Creek Packing Cubes

I’ve owned these pretty much since day 1 of Going Awesome Places and a must-have for all travellers.

As a travel minimalist or OCD about staying organized, this is an amazing way to get into the habit of rolling your clothes and keep them nice and compact. The bags themselves are super durable and weight next to nothing.

You can see that I include this in almost all of my packing lists including my recent one to French Polynesia or even for something local like this cottage packing list .

5: Anker PowerCore Power Bank

This is the Anker Powercore II 10000 mAh that has fast charge. You already know how useful these things can be whether you’re travelling or not.

For me, this has been my go-to power bank because of a couple of things. First, the footprint of this is very small is one few that perfectly fits the Peak Design Tech Pouch. Secondly, 10,000 mAh is an important specification because some airports have started limiting the maximum amount to 10,000 mAh (e.g. China).

There’s currently an updated version of this that provides Power Delivery (PD) and is actually smaller! It’s called the Anker PowerCore 10000 PD Redux .

6: Victorinox Travel Organizer

This is a super handy organizer that I use to hold all of my travel-specific cards, passport, boarding pass, cash, booking confirmation printouts, coins, and a pen. Another added benefit you get from this is that it provides RFID protection.

Victorinox has made a rugged case that belongs in any backpack as part of your carry-on kit. This is especially helpful at the airport or checking into hotels so you don’t need to rummage through your bag to find things. Pull this out and be confident that you’ll have everything you need inside.

7: Peak Design Tech Pouch

This is perhaps one of my favourite things in my travel backpack. We all have to bring more and more technology do-hickeys, widgets, and cables. The Tech Pouch keeps it all together.

I have a YouTube review of the Tech Pouch but what you need to know is that it’s the perfect place for your power blocks (laptop and phone), power bank, cables, earbuds, memory cards, business cards, pens, SIM cards, and dongles.

8: Eagle Creek Sac Set

These will look familiar as they’re by Eagle Creek but beyond matching, they’re an incredibly useful way to just organize different gear together.

Using this either in your backpack or suitcase, this allows you to know instantly what’s inside when you pull it out. I personally use this to put all my charging electronics together. I use another to throw in all my socks.

There are a ton of ways to use this and any travel lover would find a place for this in their kit.

9: Fjallraven Hip Pack

Fanny packs are back in style and there’s no slicker one than this one by Fjallraven. This hip pack comes in 3 sizes but the best for use as a companion to a backpack or as a day pack is the Large size.

Not only is this a fashion statement but a waterproof, versatile, and spacious 4 liters of space to stash your things while on the go exploring the city or on hiking trails.

10: Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap

This was a bit of an accidental discovery for me but pretty game changing because hats are by design, unbendable so you have to find space to cram it into your backpack or loop it off of something. With this, I can literally fold it and stash it in my pocket if I need to.

This Outdoor Research cap is unisex, provides 50+ UPF sun protection, is water resistant, and quick-drying, making this the ultimate travel hat.

11: Samsonite Tru-Frame Carry-On Luggage

I couldn’t go through this whole list and not throw in one piece of carry-on luggage. Samsonite makes some of the best suitcases on the market and one of their latest iterations is a winner.

Built to last, functional, and backed by a 10 year warranty, you can’t go wrong with this as a gift for any traveller. I love that this has two built in TSA-compatible locks, has 4 multi-directional spinner wheels, and comes in a variety of colors including navy which I’m a huge fan of.

12: Original Buff Headwear

If you follow our Instagram account or see any of my photos when I travel, you’ll see that I usually have this thing around my wrist, neck, or head. It’s one of my must-have travel items that I pack for every trip.

I have a full review of Buff Headwear but the skinny on this is that it’s a thoughtfully versatile piece of clothing that I use to keep my neck warm or protected from the sun, as a head covering to double as a hat, or to wipe sweat off.

13: Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks

I’ve always found socks to be a really thoughtful kind of gift whether it’s for a traveller or not because of just how useful and impactful it is on daily life.

These hiking socks by Smartwool are the crew style that are made out of 66% merino wool which makes it warm, cushioned, breathable, and built for performance whether you’re going hardcore trekking or need a warm pair for home.

CHECK PRICES FOR MEN

CHECK PRICES FOR WOMEN

14: Victorinox Swiss Army with Nail Clippers

Gifting nail clippers is a bit weird but in a Swiss Army knife, now that’s not weird at all!

This is a useful multitasking survival tool to have and much smaller than its bigger brothers. For flying, you’ll just need to remember to put this in the check-in luggage.

15: Croakies Arc Sunglasses Strap

Not quite the fashion statement but I’ve sworn by Croakies for a long time.

Hear me out. When you’re travelling with quality sunglasses like Maui Jims, the worst is when you have it hanging off your shirt or on your head and you forget and they accidentally fall out.

This completely eliminates that problem and is especially important for photographers because you just can’t shoot with sunglasses on and this allows me to pop my sunglasses on fast.

16: Travel Adapter Power Strip

Normally, I’d recommend the Belkin 3-outlet surge protector but this is a sweet universal power strip that’ll make sure you can charge all the things when you’re travelling.

Any seasoned traveller will tell you that the worst thing about any hotel, hostel or Airbnb is the lack of plugs. One of the first things I do when I unpack is hunt for all of the outlets and start unplugging all the things I won’t use like the kettle and maybe even the TV. With this, you just need one and you’re good to go.

17: Personalized Travel Notebook

I simply adore the simple aesthetic of these notebooks that are fully personalized. Drop in your family or friend’s favourite quote, add their initials, and get them started on their journaling adventure.

One thing to note is that this ships from the UK and is in the A5 size which is slightly narrower and taller.

18: Custom Engraved Acrylic Luggage Tags

For a unique gift for travel lovers, consider these engraved luggage tags on acrylic plexiglass with a 3mm genuine leather cord.

The design is minimal and discrete and you’re able to work with them to have something custom engraved. You also have the choice of 5 different materials.

19: Customized leather passport cover

Etsy is the best place to find custom leather passport covers like this one. The workmanship is superb and the service you get is some of the best I’ve ever experienced.

With 14 different colors of leather and various embossing styles, this will no doubt evoke wanderlust vibes to anyone you gift this to.

20: trtl Pillow

Everyone has their preferences for neck pillows for when they travel but for something radically different, you should definitely check out trtl Pillow.

The design includes a super soft fleece that wraps around a shoulder-supported frame that is ergonomically correct for the plane or bus.

21: Super International Power Adapter

I know this thing looks like is overkill but there’s a lot to like about this power adapter. Not only does it work around the world but it does so both ways on the male and female side of things. In addition, what I love the most is that it gives you 4 USB outlets.

This is that all-inclusive power adapter that also acts as a multi USB port hub.

22: Microfibre Travel Towel

Every traveller needs one of these lightweight, portable, and compact towels. From hostels to hotels or the gym, this is another one of those super useful gifts for travellers if they don’t own one already.

This one comes in a number of colors and sizes. I recommend that you go with a small or medium size because any larger means added bulk and weight when you’re on-to-go.

23: Portable Luggage Scale

Useful tool to have at home or even when travelling when you need to know the weight of your carry-on and check-in suitcase before you head to the airport.

The worst is when you arrive at the airport and realize you’re over the weight limit and embarrassingly need to open everything up to shift things around. Don’t allow your friend to be that guy or gal!

24: Travel Money Belt

Love them or hate them, money belts are essential when travelling in certain parts of the world where you need to make sure you keep your essential documents like the passport safe.

Personally, my money belt saved me in one occasion in France when I had my backpack stolen in Paris. Thankfully, I had my money belt on with my passport inside so the blow of the loss wasn’t as bad as it could’ve been.

25: Emergen-C

This isn’t a gift you often think about giving but for travellers, this is one of those things that you always want to have a few of to make sure the immune system is bolstered or if you’re feeling the onset of a sore throat.

Emergen-C comes in small dry packets and can be mixed with hot or cold water.

26: Sea to Summit Travelling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag

Toiletry bags or dopp kits are a personal thing as you can imagine but as someone that has tested many over the years , I know a thing or two about them.

If you’re looking to pick up a gift for a traveller that likes to keep things light and minimal, the Sea-to-Summit version is the best I’ve used for how low profile it is, adequate compartments, useful hook, durable Cordura fabric, and is ultra-light.

27: ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Briefs

How close are you with your travel lover? This’ll certainly get you a few chuckles but once they start using it, they’ll realize how amazing of a gift this is.

I swear by these ExOfficio boxer briefs and it’s the only ones I travel with because of how easy they are to wash, how quick they are to dry, and how comfortable they are.

28: Actual money belt

Instead of the traditional money belt, this is an actual belt with a hidden money pocket. It’s perfect for emergency cash.

This won’t hold your passport but will fit plenty of bills. You will need to tri-fold cash vertically. You can also fit keys, USB keys, and photocopies of important documents such as your passport.

29: Travel pins

If you know someone that’s a fan of travel pins, there are so many different unique ones out there, especially on Etsy.

Search through Etsy to find a collection of travel-inspired pins that’s perfect for any travel lover.

30: Peak Design Everyday Totepack

This is one of the newer additions to Peak Design’s Everyday line of backpacks. This is a clean look bag that also serves as a tote bag.

Coming in black or bone color, this is the perfect on-the-go everyday and photo carry with side access, plenty of padding, and integrated straps.

31: Infinity Scarf with Hidden Pockets

This is a trendy scarf that comes in 16 different colours and at a reasonable price. What makes this great for women and also men is that there are 2 zippered pockets built in to stow things like smartphones, passport, cards, and keys.

The fabric is eco-friendly, strong, durable, and comfortable with its blend of bamboo, acrylic, and polyester.

32: Drop Dead Gorgeous Dry Shampoo

This is an all natural and vegan dry shampoo powder by Handmade Heroes. Dry shampoo is a fantastic addition to any toiletry set because it’s one less liquid you need to pass through security with.

To use dry shampoo, all you have to do is blend it in by massaging the powder into the scalp. On top of being a quick liquid-free shampoo, it also adds volume. Note that there is one for medium to dark hair and another for light to medium hair.

33: Travel Jewelry Foldable Case

This a much better way to organize jewelry when travelling than a box because this folds flat and takes up less space.

The mini size in black or soft pink make excellent gifts with its numerous zippered pockets, straps, and earrings panel. Beyond travel, this is a great add-on for business trips and night outs.

34: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

This is currently my primary backpack for travel and while it doesn’t come cheap especially when you factor in the camera cube you’d need, it does a brilliant job at carrying a ton of camera gear, laptop and everything else you need on the road.

A full review of the Travel Backpack and my field test shows how it can be used.

35: Travelzoo Travel Vouchers

While travel has come to a screeching halt, the flip side has been that hotels, resorts, and tour companies have been offering deep discounts. The best place this has been consolidated has been on Travelzoo .

Travelzoo is essentially selling vouchers to places like the Maldives for really cheap and the best part about it is that they’re fully refundable. Make sure you read our latest piece on how Travelzoo works.

36: Victorinox VX Touring 2-in-1

This is another travel bag that I’ve fallen in love with but is a pretty incognito piece of luggage that was released by Victorinox not too long ago.

The VX Touring is a 2-in-1 where you it has backpack straps so you can carry it on your back but it can also act as a carry-on suitcase.

37: Dr. Bronner’s Organic Hand Sanitizer

This usually makes a great hand sanitizer for when you’re travelling but with the current state of travel, this becomes even more important to carry around with you, in the car, and at home.

For those that aren’t familiar with Dr. Bronner’s, they make some amazing organic and vegan products. The lavender scent is also quite gentle and pleasant.

38: World Maps with Pins

Speaking from experience, travel enthusiasts like to keep track of everywhere they’ve been or at least want to be able to see the world to be able to figure out where to go next.

In our article on the best world map with pins , you’ll find 7 different varieties in different styles that would make epic gifts.

39: Kammok Swiftlet

With so much time spent at home now, the key is to find new ways to relax and leverage things that you might already have. Kammok’s Swiftlet helps you do exactly that.

Swiftlet is a portable hammock stand that is currently the lightest in the market. You can set it up outdoors but you can also put it on our deck, balcony, or even inside the house.

A hammock stand isn’t complete with a hammock itself so while you’re at it, add a Kammok Roo Single . If you’re looking for to snuggle, I also recommend looking into trail quilts. We’ve reviewed extensively the Firebelly and Arctos .

40: Custom City Map Print

Continuing the “at home” theme, these beautiful prints of any city in the world are perfect pieces of art.

NordicCollection is an Etsy store that allows you to customize the size, location, and printed on fine art paper. All maps are made to order. Pair this print with a black frame and hang it in any part of the house.

41: Travel Airport Stickers

Stickers are a great way of reminiscing old travels and wanderlusting future trips. You can stick these vintage airport code luggage tags on the fridge, journal, laptop, scrapbook, photo albums, real luggage, and decorative ones.

This is a pack of 46 stickers with 23 unique airport codes that are approximately 3.5cm x 3 cm. They’re made in Canada and amazing quality.

42: Rosetta Stone

The gift of language may be the best of all. For those that can’t travel, learning a new language is one of the best ways to prepare for a future trip.

Through Rosetta Stone’s system of learning a new language from the ground up by focusing on practical uses, pick up the basics in no time. The best package to purchase as a gift is a 1 year membership .

If you’re curious about my own experiences with Rosetta Stone, see my review of Mandarin and Japanese .

43: Peak Design Capture

I always get comments and stares when I travel with my camera clinging to my backpack strap. Peak Design’s Capture clip is an indispensable tool for all photographers because it allows you to quickly mount the camera on your body securely without having to stuff it back into your backpack.

Capture is what allows you to have your camera as accessible as possible so you never miss a moment when you’re travelling.

44: Fujifilm Instax Mini 90

When it comes to gifts for travel lovers, retro is in and the Fujifilm Instax 90 is a fun little camera for any photographer. It’s great for when you travel but it’s also great for when you’re at home as well.

Over the years, I’ve made it a habit to bring this along with me as an alternative way to create collectable memories.

45: Peak Design Everyday Sling

For day trips, road trips whether local or internationally, having a good day bag is important but the question always is how do you balance the day bag with your larger backpack. Instead of having two backpacks, I’ve learned that travelling with a smaller sling that can be packed inside a larger backpack is the key. That’s where the Everyday Sling comes in.

This is Peak Design’s newest 6L sling bag that can carry an impressive amount of camera gear, iPad, documents, and water bottle. Whether you’re using this for big trips or small, this is the perfect photographer’s sling.

46: LensPen

If you’re thinking about finding a gift for a photographer that’s just starting off, they may not have this handy accessory that everyone needs – a Lenspen!

This 3 Lenspen set is what you need to clean your lens, viewfinder and filters from dust and dirt.

47: Backblaze

This may seem like a bit of an unusual gift but to a traveller and photographer, this is extremely useful. In digital, photos take up more and more hard drive space and thought of losing these files in a hard drive failure becomes more frightening.

Backblaze is an off-site backup strategy which uploads your most important files in case something ever did go wrong. Think iCloud but for unlimited storage of data. A one-year membership is an awesome gift.

48: BioLite HeadLamp 330 Lumen

There are a ton of things to like about this BioLite headlamp. It’s designed for comfort which is important, has multiple lighting modes, and can be recharged via micro USB instead of batteries.

The comfort part of this headlamp is due to the fact that it uses a 3D molded housing that sits as flat to your head as possible so it doesn’t bounce and slip like others do. The 330 lumen model also provides more light than the smaller 200.

49: Kammok Roo Single

For those in the market for a high quality hammock, Kammok is highly recommended. The Roo Single is for one person, is silky soft which we love, and is really easy to set up.

If you need more space, Kammok also has the Roo Double which fits – you guessed it – two people!

50: Kammok Firebelly Trail Quilt

Trail quilts are becoming a must-have piece of gear for outdoor enthusiasts because of how lightweight they are and how versatile they can be when in combination with a hammock, as a sleeping bag, or just as a quilt to keep you warm.

I have a full article showing why quilts will soon replace sleeping bags and Kammok Firebelly 30 review so make sure you take a look!

51: Stuff Sack Set

Also called ditty bags, this set of 5 is a useful set for any outdoor and travel enthusiast. Stuff sacks are a great way to stay organized and throw in anything from clean clothes, dirty clothes, food, and camping gear.

With a set like this, you also get ones that are all different colours so this makes it easy to identify what’s what when you pull it ouf your backpack or suitcase.

52: Osprey UltraLight Dry Sack

A traveller’s worth nightmare is getting things wet and so dry sacks like this one are helpful to have and they also double as a standard stuff sack.

This is made of 40D rip stop nylon and comes in 5 different colors. 6L is a good size to have but they also come in 1.5L, 3L, 12L, 20L, and 30L.

53: SteriPen UV Water Purifier

This is a nifty gadget to have especially if you’re going to a destination where clean water is a challenge. The way it works is that it uses UV light to destroy over 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. It is battery powered and is good for 50 treatments per charge.

Many people that use that have used it for trips to Africa with success and definitely makes a thoughtful gift. If you read the reviews, batteries seem to be a problem so it may be worth it to include a few CR123 batteries .

All e-commerce platforms including Amazon will allow you to send to a separate address from your billing address. Some will allow you to send it as a gift as well to make sure the invoice isn’t packaged with it.

It is always recommended to buy gifts early. My recommendation is to start looking before Black Friday comes around which gives you ample time to put your order in and receive the gift well before Christmas.

Create an Amazon wishlist right away and watch the prices as they constantly make micro adjustments to prices. Sometimes they’ll drop significantly and that is when you should jump on buying it. Also, look out for Amazon Warehouse items as they come at a significant discount for boxes being simply open but not used.

Another great idea is to gift travel experiences through something called Tinggly .

If you’re not a fan of Amazon, I recommend that you look up the brand’s website and purchase directly from them.

What you should read next

• 33 Practical Camping Gift Ideas For Outdoor Lovers
• 10 Awesome Travel Gifts on Etsy For Travel Friends
• Top National Rental Car Discount Codes
• When Is The Best Time To Visit Santorini?

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300 ) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The one we find using the most is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order. The newest eSIM we’ve tried is KnowRoaming that sneakily has great rates on unlimited plans. We’ve partnered with them to give you a custom code GAP10 to save you 10%.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key ).

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

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About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Christmas Gifts for Travel Enthusiasts (Santa Approved)

Holiday Gifts , Packing & Fashion

Shopping for the frequent traveler who’s seen it all? Keep reading. I’ve made the ultimate holiday guide filled with tons of Christmas gifts for travel enthusiasts. Santa approved!

What to get someone who loves to travel?

For many frequent travelers (myself included) it may seem difficult to find a gift that will WOW them as much as discovering new parts of the world, but trust me, sometimes a useful gift is just what we need to make our travels all the better.

One might also argue gift-giving is insanely difficult for travelers. After all, we like to keep things light and practical. At least from a packing standpoint.

On the other hand, many travelers are always searching for those unique pieces in fashion and accessories. Something that screams, I travel light and I look good. Nah what I mean?

Of course, the trip is never truly over when we come home. I enjoy having pictures from all my trips and art that serves as a constant reminder to save and get back out in the world.

Christmas Gifts for Travel Enthusiasts

This post has a ton of gift ideas. I’m talking over 50!!! Below are my top 10 gifts for frequent travelers, though, I encourage you to peruse. To help you navigate, click on any of the links below for quick access.

Airbnb Gift Card

Flip flap phone holder, clip-on cell phone lens, 7-piece packing cubes, hardshell luggage with usb port, travel anywhere guide, zhiyun crane 2, travel hammock, skyroam mobile wifi hotspot, whiskey globe decanter.

Stocking Stuffers for Travelers

These stocking stuffers will be perfect for light packers. They are tiny and practical so they never feel without.

I personally love gift cards. Any traveler will be grateful for their room and board to be covered or partially covered on wherever their next destination may be.

Buy Online at Amazon

Jo Malone Travel Perfume

I used to never travel with perfume but once I bought this Jo Malone travel-sized perfume (Peony & Blush Suede scent), my life was forever changed. At least when it came to beauty on the road. Clothes can start to smell stale when sitting in your luggage. Spraying some perfume makes you feel refreshed.

Buy Online at Nordstroms

Cellphone Wide Angle Clip-on Lens

Cell phone cameras are already amazing but with this clip-on lens, they become even more high quality. Unlike a big DSLR, this lens can fit in your front pocket. Give travel photos a boost without taking up a ton of luggage space.

To-Go Old Fashion Cocktail Kit

I for one would love the opportunity to craft the perfect old fashion while thousands of miles in the sky or a rural cabin with no bar in sight. For the booze traveler, this is the perfect stocking-stuffer.

Practical Carry On Essentials

Flight Flap Phone & Tablet Holder

This gift is extremely handy on flights. Ever watch a movie on your phone but are forced to hold your hand up or bend your neck so far down it kinks?

The flight flap tucks above your tray so you can watch tv on your smartphone while looking straight ahead. Best parts it’s super affordable.

Compression Socks Anti-Fatigue

Sitting still for long periods can limit blood circulation and in extreme cases cause blood clots. For the frequent flyer in your life (or you) then compression socks are a must, not to mention, thoughtful gift.

Memory Foam Foot Hammock

This is a must for long-haul flights in coach. Of course, I’m speaking from a 5’3″ point of view. When I flew to Rome I used a foot hammock and was forever changed. Having your feet elevation helps with circulation too.

Anti-Jet Lag Flight Drink

These tablets help prevent the fatigue that is caused by travel. Plus, they help with circulation and reduce ankle swelling. Taking care of yourself on the road is key!

Hydrating Face Mist

Something about flights short or long leaves you feeling yucky. Spray some hydrating mist right before landing and feel FRESH. This product smells amazing and feels wonderful on your face. Plus, it’s cruelty-free!

Reusable Lint Roller

This is a great gift for anyone who travels for work. You know those business dressed peeps on the plane. I feel so bad for them. A lint roller is useful even when you’re off the plane. I know I have those shirts and pants that attract lint. Having a travel-sized lint roller on hand is a wardrobe saver.

Passport ID Holder

Continuing the pink travel theme, why not go for a simple passport holder. I always carry a bag when I’m exploring so a thin passport holder is my go-to.

Useful Safety & Protection Gifts

Waterproof Phone Case Pouch

Not only is this waterproof but it hangs around your neck which is nice. I get nervous walking with my phone in my pocket and hate searching for it in my bag every time I need it.

Rainbow Luggage Straps

Not only will these give your luggage an added a layer of security but will allow you to easily identify them should they be lost or drifting on the carousel. Yes, I’m speaking from personal experience.

Any backpacker should always have a padlock with them. Some hostels come with keyless lockers but many don’t. So if the frequent traveler in your life is headed on their first backpacking trip or lost their old one, then give them this.

Organizers & Storage

Jewelry Storage Case

I have so much jewelry but often find it a hassle to bring a variety. Mostly because I never had proper storage. I would toss a handful of stuff in a plastic bag only to find a tangled disaster. This compact case gives you enough room to bring multiple pieces for different occasions and outfits. New Years travels especially. Got to bring the bling!

7-Piece Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are the holy grail of luggage organizers. Not only are they a huge space saver. Psst. . . roll the clothes and shove them in a packing cube. You’re golden.

Plus, this 7-piece sets come with a laundry bag which is AMAZING for long duration backpacking trips. Anyone you know traveling to Europe? They need this!

You Might Also Like: Essential Backpacking Tips Every Beginner Needs to Know

Wet Suit Packing Bag

For summer travels when bathing suits are common this is a super helpful item. Even when you think your garments are dry and put them in your suitcase, you will often find a little moisture has spread. It’s the worst. Get a wetsuit bag.

Travel Soap Container

I don’t travel with a loofah; therefore find bars of soap lather much better than gels. Carrying a bar of soap was never practical until now. I love my soap container and the traveler in your life will too. You can also put those bar shampoos and conditioners in here that you find at Lush.

Luggage & Bags

Proper luggage is the foundation of everything and often overlooked. I know I cheaped out on luggage in the beginning. Investing in sturdy and reliable luggage that’s NOT BLACK is totally worth it. Ask any frequent traveler.

Weekend Getaway Duffle Bag

I love how bright pink it is, but more importantly the straps. I can throw it over my shoulder or carry it around my arm.

Also, it folds nicely and is wrinkle-free, so if you happen to do some shopping on a trip, throw this in your larger suitcase and retrieve it later for extra luggage on the flight back home.

In desperate need of a weekend getaway?

You Might Also Like: This is the Only Way to See Seattle in a Weekend

Anti-theft Tote Bag

The subtle color is already nice in that it doesn’t stand out in a crowd and possibly attract thieves. The straps are accommodating to any style. Long or short shoulder strap.

Additionally, it comes with a hidden zipper for extra protection on the valuables like passports and cash.

Incase DSLR Camera Backpack

Like many items on this list, I too own this backpack and love it. It’s the perfect carry-on with space for all my electronics and clothes.

There are tons of zippers, a side strap for your tripod, laptop sleeve, and hidden pockets for small cords, memory cards, etc. I cannot live without this bag.

Hardshell Suitcase with USB Port

The USB port is enough reason to buy this. Aside from that hardshell suitcases last forever and this bright one will surely help you identify your bag should it be lost. Trust me, no frequent traveler needs a black suitcase. Color for the win!

Layover Entertainment

Deck of Cards

Makes for a great game of solitaire while you’re waiting for your flight or a drinking game at the hostel. You can never go wrong with having a deck of cards on hand, especially when they look this sleek and sexy.

Harry Potter House Trunk Set 

OK, so you don’t have to take the whole trunk. One at a time will suffice. Keep the rest on a bookshelf at home while simultaneously showing your house pride.

That’s right, you can get this truck in Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, or my beloved Slytherin

You Might Also Like: What to Wear to Harry Potter World if You’re a Slytherin

Anywhere Travel Guide

Includes 75 cards to inspire exploration. It’s a game where you draw a card and complete whatever task it tells you such as asking a random local where their favorite spot is and going there. I did this in Seattle and had a blast!

Best Travel Gifts for Her: Fashion

Every adventure has a style, especially when that adventure requires an Ugly Christmas Sweater.

Easy to wash layers – the laundry situation on the road is always iffy. Sometimes you might find yourself doing a quick hand wash in the sink.

Here are cute and easy to wash layers for the frequent traveler in your life. Click on each item to learn more.

Solid Tank Top with Tie Straps

My go-to mixed stripe long sleeve tee.

My favorite graphic tees

Lazy Weekend

Vacay all day, cocktails, vacations, love.

Jackets & Sweaters

Here are stylish and practical sweaters.

Black Velvet Sweatshirt

Cut-out tunic sweater, cozy pullover sweatshirt, trench coat, everyday waterproof jacket .

You Might Also Like: What to Pack for Las Vegas by Season

Holiday Party: Ugly Sweaters & NYE Outfits Dresses

Christmas party, will smith ugly sweater, green dress, classic black nye look, little black dress.

Kate Spade Loafers

Combat boots with cushy insoles for sightseeing.

Accessories

All black errything watch, heartbeat open ring (appropriate since traveling gets the heart pumping), clothes patches, free your soul, camera crew, enjoy the journey, [mailmunch-form id="699459"].

Gifts for  Travel Photographers & Videographers

We all have the one travel buddy who also serves as the trip historian. At least that’s what I like to call it. If you have the photography or videography enthusiast who just to happens to travel then these are the gifts for her or him.

For someone like me, when I was starting my Instagram and Youtube channels I would have been thrilled to have received one of these gadgets under the Christmas tree.

DJI Mavic Air Fly More Combo

This was my first drone and I love it. It shoots in 4k up to 120fps. Well, if you want 120 fps then you will get 1080p but that’s still amazing. The Mavic Air does not disappoint.

Canon EOS 80D

Also the exact camera I shoot with. The best part about the 80D is the flip screen on the back. It’s not a full-frame camera but still produces amazing video and photos.

The built-in mic is amazing too for anyone just getting started. This camera is perfect for anyone needing to upgrade from say a point and shoot camera or a Rebel. But if you’re like me, I started with this beast and would do it again.

You Might Also Like: How to Edit Instagram Photos Like a Travel Blogger

I’ll be honest with you. This item is at the tippy-top of my Christmas list. I’m for sure getting it and you should too. Your videos will significantly improve. Upgrade from handheld shots to this amazing stabilizer.

Katana Mavic Air Tray

Turn your drone into a 3-axis gimbal for ground shots. This is an amazing product and super affordable. I just took it with me to Chicago – a city with no-fly zones.

I hooked my drone up to this bad girl and had a hand-held gimbal at 120 fps. My Canon only has 60fps so this was amazing. A great product to give your drone a new use.

GoPro Hero 7

GoPros are getting insanely better. I still prefer them for action shots near water. They are lightweight and can fit into any nook in your luggage. This is a great alternative to expensive DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras if you’re just starting.

Essential Travel Gadgets

Beats Wireless Headphones

I cannot fly without having headphones for music or movies on my phone. They are so worth the money for the quality is amazing. Plus, who doesn’t love a rose gold touch?

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

I recently went tubing in Austin, and someone brought a wireless speaker with them on the river. It was a total game-changer and now I will never travel without a speaker. Never know when you will need to start the party with some tunes.

You Might Also Like: How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Austin

For the rural traveler in your life give them the gift of internet access from anywhere.

Things to Make Travel Easier

Here are some useful travel items that will surely come in handy when you least expect it.

Compact Pocket Blanket

This is especially helpful for those beach vacays!

Umm yes. Who doesn’t want to relax all day in a hammock over a good book in Hawaii? I know I do!

Lazy Person’s Long Arm Phone Holder

This is just too epic and genius to not want. Frequent traveler or not.

Staycation: Wanderlust Home Decor

Just because you’re home does not mean the travel is over. Wander around the world and stay inspired with these travel themed home decor gifts.

Disney Castle Floor Mat

When you’d rather be at Disneyland .

For hosting an afternoon tea party – London style.

You Might Also Like: Afternoon Tea at Sketch: London’s Finest Tea Room

Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser

When you’re in desperate need of a spa retreat.

Because whiskey is the best and this globe decanter is the shit. Old fashions taste better when the whiskey comes from a globe decanter.

I love the cork, earthy look to this globe. Get it? lol. But this is so cool. Why not take the bucket list to a globe corkboard? Spin, go, pin!

Holidays are meant to be enjoyed and stressing over the perfect gift is unnecessary. Hopefully this guide helped you so that you can get back to enjoying the holidays.

Psst. . . Looking for more travel tips? Check out these stylish posts:

Backpacking Europe Packing List: Female Fashion, Gadgets & More

What to pack for los angeles in the summer, coachella fashion trends for men & women under $30.

Which gift on this list is your favorite? Share your tips in the comments below!

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com on behalf of nutter puffs. Though sponsored, all opinions are 100% my own. This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission (at no cost to you) when you purchase through these links, which helps me keep my lights on and order pizza from Dominos! I am extremely grateful. Thank you.

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Welcome to my world of fun!

I’m Allison, a born and raised Vegas girl on the endless pursuit of epic adventures. I created Seeking Neverland as a way to help grown-ups see the world and live a fun and fulfilled life! Read my full story here

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• Photo Books
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Christmas Travel Gifts

A highly customizable travel journal photo book with neutral colors and various design options.

Pros: High-quality photo printing, Ability to customize and create own design, Quick and easy process, Thick and lasting paper, Excellent customer service

A stylish metal luggage tag with personalized options and a buckle strap, available in two sizes.

Pros: quality, personalization, sturdiness

A multicolor metal luggage tag with personalized double-sided contact info and buckle strap.

Pros: Durable, High quality, Easy to use, Prompt delivery, Colorful

A large, white metal luggage tag that can be personalized on both sides and includes a buckle strap.

Pros: Sturdy and durable, High quality and long lasting, Customizable and personalized, Unique and pretty design, Useful and versatile

A versatile and customizable gift option, available in multiple denominations and delivered quickly by email.

A high-quality, multicolor metal ornament with two-sided personalization for photos and text.

Pros: Easy to use, High photo quality, Great keepsake, Well-made product, Loved by family

A colorful cotton tote bag measuring 15 x 18, perfect for personalization and spot cleaning.

Pros: size, material, quality

A small, pink metal luggage tag that can be personalized on both sides and includes a buckle strap.

Pros: Great photo quality, Sturdy and durable, Cool and stylish design, High-quality metal material, Easy to use and personalize

A stylish white magnet with rounded corners, perfect for customizing photos and making unique announcements or invitations....

Pros: Stylish design, Good quality, Easy to use, Fast shipping, Great photo clarity

A charming multicolor photo book with watercolor illustrations, vintage stamps, and retro frames for travel photos.

Pros: customization options, ease of use, ability to tell a story

A personalized gray notebook with a photo cover, stylish designs, black coil binding, and 150 lined pages.

Pros: Customizable cover, Stylish design, Good size, High quality, Great as a gift

A stylish pink metal luggage tag with personalized contact info and buckle strap.

Pros: durable, practical, beauty

A laminated white placemat with various design options, perfect for kitchen, kids' rooms, and parties.

Pros: easy to clean, sweet design, quality of pictures

A multicolor magnet with stylish designs for personalized photos and unique announcements or gifts.

Pros: Stylish design, Easy to use, Good fit, High quality, Great customer service

A brown cotton tote bag with a dash border design, personalized in the USA.

Pros: Useful and versatile, High-quality and well-made, Great picture and print quality, Personalized reminder of a memory, Affordable and recommended

A colorful 5x8 notebook with a yellow cover that can be personalized with your photos.

Pros: Great for personalization and customization, High quality and well-made, Versatile for journaling or as a gift, Clear and vibrant photo printing, Sturdy and thick pages

A multicolor reusable shopping bag with a favorite photo and text, water resistant and machine washable.

Pros: exceeded expectations, roomy, easily foldable

A two-sided metal luggage tag that can be personalized on both sides, available in small and large sizes.

Pros: durability, personalization, usefulness as a travel gift

A personalized blue ceramic latte mug that holds 17 oz. and is microwave and dishwasher safe.

Pros: sentimental value, great, quality

A customizable unisex t-shirt in gray, with personalized front and optional personalized back, made of 100% cotton.

Pros: clear photo, soft fabric, clear print

A customizable multicolor magnet with rounded corners, perfect for unique announcements and gifts.

Pros: Great size, Good quality, Clear image, Good price, Great for showcasing family memories

A white cotton tote bag measuring 15 x 18, perfect for personalization and spot cleaning.

Pros: Canvas material, Roomy and versatile, Sturdy and durable, Good image and design quality, Practical size and material

A set of four white coasters with customizable photos, perfect for cocktails or hot drinks.

Pros: Customizable design, Durable coasters, High quality, Perfect as a gift, Pet friendly

A personalized notebook with a multicolor cover, stylish designs, black coil binding, and 150 lined pages.

Pros: Great picture quality, Stylish and fun designs, Good size for mobility, High quality notebook, Variety of designs to choose from

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10 Best CHRISTMAS Gifts for Travelers in 2024

By: Author Mitch Glass

Posted on Last updated: December 31, 2023

HO HO HO! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

So you’re hunting for Christmas gifts for travelers, eh?

Well you’ve come to the right place. 

It turns out, travelers are notoriously hard to shop for. 

In fact, my family has completely given up on buying me gifts, and now they just Venmo me money for Christmas…🙄

See, most seasoned globetrotters already have all their essentials covered, so if you want a gift that’ll really wow them, you’ll have to get creative. 

Luckily for you, I’ve taken care of all the heavy lifting.

On this list of Christmas gift ideas for travelers, you’ll find travel-themed items that your loved one is unlikely to already have, but is sure to love!

Remember, it’s never too early to start Christmas shopping—especially if the traveler in your life will be gone for Christmas and you want to give them their gift early. If you choose one of these Christmas gifts for travelers, you really can’t go wrong.

Want even more Christmas gift ideas for travelers? Check out this post that lists out the top gifts for each type of traveler.

Table of Contents

#1.) Anker Powercore Portable Charger

#2.) inspirational travel t-shirt, #3.) ancestry dna test kit, #4.) jbl flip 6 bluetooth speaker , #5.) yoozon selfie stick tripod, #6.) amazon gift card, #7.) rei gift card, #8.) world map watch, #9.) rosetta stone, #10.) tinggly experience box, christmas gifts for travelers recap.

If you’re looking for the perfect travel present for someone who likes exploring rustic destinations, this is a great gift.

When exploring mountains, deserts, islands, and other “off-the-radar” destinations, it can be difficult to keep your devices charged. Not only can this lead to missing opportunities to take once-in-a-lifetime photos, but being completely disconnected is also dangerous.

This top-rated portable charger has enough juice to charge smartphones up to 7 times (depending on the phone) so the adventurer in your life will NEVER run out of battery.

These travel-themed t-shirts make perfect Christmas gifts for travelers for two reasons:

1.) Travelers tend to have a weird desire to inspire and share their adventurousness with non-travelers (Guilty!).

2.) Travelers are proud of who they are and the lifestyle they live.

There are tons of different travel shirt styles out there, but here’s a bunch to give you some ideas .

Once you start traveling the world and immersing yourself different cultures, suddenly learning about your own ancestry becomes a lot more interesting.

Not only is it fascinating to know your heritage, but it also connects you with other travelers.

“Oh, you guys are from Australia, I’m 7% Australian! G’day mate, let’s be friends!”

Also, once your traveler sends in their saliva and gets back their results, it’ll give them a whole new list of countries they’ll wanna visit.

When traveling, there are times when some good music can make or break an experience. If you need a good gift for people who travel a lot, you can’t go wrong with a quality “travel-proof” Bluetooth speaker.

When I say “travel-proof”, I mean something that meets the following criteria:

Cheap enough to not break the bank

Small, lightweight enough to pack

Big, powerful enough to pump a room full of bumpin’ music

Durable enough to get thrown around in your bag and stand up against the elements

Waterproof to listen by the pool, hiking in the rain, tubing down a river, etc.

There are many great options on the market, but for me, the JBL Flip 6 is the “Goldie Locks” of Bluetooth speakers for travelers, meeting all of the above criteria.

Maybe I’m behind the times. But up until about 2-months ago, I was using the same crappy selfie stick I’d bought for $2 at Carnival in Barranquilla, Colombia back in 2016.

Boy how times have changed. Now they have fancy lightweight Bluetooth selfie sticks with remotes and built-in tripods. 

Gone are the days of awkwardly hunting down strangers to take your picture. (Or, if you’re like me, balancing your camera on a rock, setting a timer, and trying not to trip on your face as you scramble to get in the picture).

If you’re looking for a good quality selfie stick for your favorite traveler, you can’t go wrong with the Yoozon Selfie Stick Tripod. I love mine!

If you’re loved one is traveling around the world, it can be a challenge for them to actually receive your Christmas gift (I finally picked up my grandma’s 2018 gift the following June—a deliciously fuzzy blanket—and brought it back with me to Colombia).

It’s definitely not the most creative gift idea for travelers, but if you want to give something they’ll actually use (sooner rather than later), you can’t go wrong with an Amazon gift card.

This is also a great travel gift idea if you’re worried about accidentally buying them something they already have. Don’t let the “gift cards are lazy presents” misconception hold you back. In reality, everybody likes being able to buy themselves exactly what they want.

Speaking of gift cards, if your traveler is in town and you have an REI nearby, an REI gift card may be an even better option. That’s because when a traveler is choosing an item they’ll be carrying with them all around the world (like a backpack, tent, travel clothes, etc), it helps to be able to test it out in person (and get professional guidance).

REI is one of the best stores to do that.

Is your traveler a watch person? If so, they’re gonna love this cute travel gift. 

These watches have a world map as the background, along with a little airplane that moves around in circles as the clock ticks. 

The one pictured above is technically a women’s watch, but you can find men’s styles as well on Amazon. 

Rosetta Stone is one of the most popular language-learning tools out there. 

If your traveler plans to spend an extended period of time in one region of the world, their experience will be completely different if they’re able to speak the local language.

If that local language is one of the 24 offered by Rosetta Stone, this will make the perfect Christmas gift.

This is the ultimate Christmas gift for travelers. Here’s how it works…

You buy a “box” of experiences, which is delivered via email to your traveler. Each box contains hundreds of different fun experiences in over 100 countries (skydiving in Singapore, Ferrari racing in Lithuania, wine tasting on a sailboat, etc). Your traveler then has 5 years to enjoy whichever experience they choose.

See what I mean by the ultimate Christmas gift for travelers?

The great thing about these gift ideas is that they are things your loved one will be able to use and enjoy even if they don’t fit in their luggage.

So, whether your loved one is at home for Christmas or they’re off exploring the world, if you choose one of the Christmas present ideas on this list, you’re guaranteed to pick something then never forget.

Need even more gift ideas? We’ve got ya covered. Choose the type of traveler you’re shopping for below:

Guys Girls Moms Dads Kids Business Travelers Couples Under $10 First-Time Travelers

Digital Nomads Retired Travelers Photography Lovers Luxury Travelers Nature-Lovers A Traveler’s Home A Current Traveler Book-Lovers Christmas Gifts Beach-Lovers

Mitch is your typical nomadic backpacker. Or at least, he was . But after stopping in Colombia to take “one week” of salsa lessons, his life took a sharp left turn. He met a cute Colombian girl in dance class, fell in love, and got married. Over half a decade has passed since he left his career to travel the world as a digital nomad, and he’s never looked back.

Nowadays, he’s the blogger behind Project Untethered — where he runs an awesome email newsletter and Youtube channel teaching adventure-craved wanderlusters how to escape the rat race, earn money from anywhere, and build an “untethered life”.

His advice has been featured in Forbes, USA Today, Yahoo, MSN, Reader’s Digest, Condé Nast Traveler, and more.

Mitch's Travel Recommendations: Travel Planning Resources - Everything you need to plan your trip on one convenient page. Going Cheap Flights Newsletter - Get flight deals from your airport up to 90% off sent straight to your inbox. Safetywing Insurance - This cheap travel insurance has saved me over $15,000 in medical bills. Booking.com - Book accommodation without adding your credit card (in case you need to cancel). Trusted House Sitters - Take care of pets in exchange for free (sometimes luxury) accommodation. Flexjobs - Find remote jobs without having to sift through crappy ones. Skillshare - Free trial to take unlimited classes that teach digital nomad skills. Wise - Send and receive money abroad cheaply (great for freelancers).

By signing up, you'll also be added to my legendary email list and receive exclusive travel lifesyle tips I don't share anywhere else.

Discover how to travel FOREVER

Grab this "Cheat Sheet" to discover the tricks full-time travelers use to slash their costs to practically nothing.

You're Seconds Away...

What to expect:

• Bonus guides, ebooks, and other freebies

By signing up, you'll be added to my legendary email list.

• Realistic advice on setting up life on the road (no hype)
• Cool travel hacks that'll save you money
• Direct access to me for questions

From learning exactly how to travel the world full-time, earn money from anywhere, and live a completely "untethered" life.

Where should I send your itinerary PDF?

By signing up, you'll also be added to my legendary email list and receive handy travel lifestyle tips and inspiration I don't share anywhere else.

Where should I send your packing checklist?

By signing up, you'll also be added to my legendary travel lifestyle email list.