73 Best Travel Gifts for Book Lovers, Beauty Gurus, & Everyone Else on Your List

By Madison Flager and Paris Wilson

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When it comes to choosing the best travel gifts, there are many routes to take: You can get your go-to vacation companion something practical that they'll reach for every time they take out their carry-on. Or, you can gift something to encourage them to start planning their next trip (and hopefully invite you along). There are also gifts that bring travel to them, making the space between adventures feel a bit more like a vacation, and experience gifts to make their next trip even more exciting. No matter the occasion, or the traveler, we've rounded up nearly 60 travel gifts from brands we love, so you can find something for each person on your list.

For even more specific gift guides, be sure to check out all our recommended gifts for travelers, which we've gathered for you here . And keep an eye on the calendar—the sooner the better if you're shipping presents straight to a giftee, or mailing to yourself to wrap. Standard free shipping deadlines end as early as December 13 for delivery by Christmas, so aim to order by that date if you're hoping to avoid shipping costs.

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

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

Lunya washable silk pajama set

Washable silk pajamas? Say no more. For the traveler who could use a little luxury in their life, Lunya's matching set—which we've raved about time and time again—will get plenty of use at home and on vacation.

christmas present ideas for travel

Dreamegg White Noise Machine

This sound machine fits into the palm of a hand and weighs less than five ounces. It's perfect for travelers with small children or who find it hard to fall sleep in new environments. It has a rechargeable USB battery, features 21 different sounds, and has an easy-to-use timer setting.

christmas present ideas for travel

Ashya Passport Bolo

For those who like to travel light, the Passport Bolo from Ashya is an adjustable, hand stitched leather passport necklace made with 14K gold-plated hardware. It can be worn as across the chest like a slingbag or around the neck like a lanyard. Use it to hold important cards while traveling or as an everyday wallet .

christmas present ideas for travel

Ember Travel Mug 2

The charge on this mug can last up to three hours, but lasts all day when combined with the charging coaster. When left unattended, it automatically goes into sleep mode, but can keep the cup warm for up to two hours with the help of its thermal hardware.

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Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest

Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest

We could wax poetic about what our office has dubbed “the foot hammock,” but it all comes down to this : for those roughly 5'7" and under, it'll transform your in-flight economy experience. Sling it around your tray table and enjoy stretching out your legs (or curling up to sleep) throughout your next flight.

christmas present ideas for travel

Ralph Lauren Cable Cashmere travel set

This Ralph Lauren travel set is a travel accessory you'll use again and again. It comes with a large shawl that can be used as a blanket, a small pillow, and a soft eye mask—all made from cashmere.

christmas present ideas for travel

Zendure mini portable charger

For frequent travelers, a small, lightweight portable charger is truly a must-have. The Supermini portable power bank is extremely slim, durable, and is compatible with USB-A, USB, and USB-C ports.

christmas present ideas for travel

Rifle Paper Co. AirTag luggage tag

If your giftee has gotten on the AirTag train this year, they’ll appreciate this handy luggage tag, designed to hold said tag and look aesthetically pleasing while doing so. The garden party print will add a Bridgerton-meets-cottagecore vibe to their suitcase, and the AirTag compartment is detachable, making it even more versatile.

Bellroy Tech Kit

Bellroy Tech Kit

Every organized traveler needs a good tech kit. We like Bellroy's for its many pockets and loops that will fit any size cord and offer a safe place to stash AirPods, portable chargers, and work-from-anywhere accessories like a mouse or Wi-Fi extender.

christmas present ideas for travel

Dagne Dover Seoul Dopp kit

Ahead of the holidays, Dagne Dover released a new slate of items in its eco-friendlier collection. The Seoul Dopp kit, much like the rest of the collection, is made from 100 percent recycled polyester while the interior is made from a spill-proof recycled poly lining.

christmas present ideas for travel

Canada Goose Trillium Parka Heritage

For winter travel, a thick, packable coat is a necessity. The Canada Goose Trillium parka is built for extreme cold but is by no means bulky, and actually has a slimming effect. It has a chin guard to protect the neck from cold air, interior pockets, and a hoodie with removable trims, giving your giftee some style options.

christmas present ideas for travel

Comrad Knee High Ombre compression socks

Socks have a reputation as a boring gift option, but for travelers, these ones are an actually thoughtful pick. Comrad is known for bringing comfort and style to the world of compression socks, which are designed to help regulate swelling and keep the blood pumping through the legs. They're perfect for long flights, road trips, or just walking around sightseeing.

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AeroPress coffee maker

The AeroPress coffee and espresso maker is perfect for coffee lovers who can't go without their morning cup. It's durable, shatter-proof, and fits compactly into a backpack . It's easy to use and easier to clean, making it a must-have for travelers.

christmas present ideas for travel

Pak Réve The Wilder Bundle

Trying to make it out of the house as a new parent can be stressful to stay the least. The Wilder Bundle, designed by Traveler contributor Jordi Lippe-McGraw , can fit everything you need and more. On the exterior, we see a full-size backpack, but its included attachments—a mini backpack, wristlet, and insulated lunchbox—easily snap off to lighten your load when you don't need them, or to be used separately.

christmas present ideas for travel

Parks by Brian Kelley

From intricately drawn brochures and eye-catching advertisements emerges a collection of over 400 designs produced by the United States National Park Service over the last century, compiled into a giftable portfolio by photographer Brian Kelley.

christmas present ideas for travel

Shinola The Canfield Sport

The Shinola Canfield Sport watch is a timeless piece of jewelry that can withstand whatever life throws at it. It features a stainless steel outer case and bracelet with a gunmetal finish making it extremely durable. Its sportier look is perfect for casual wear but the black finishing makes it easy to dress up.

christmas present ideas for travel

Filson x Chris Stapleton Traveller Bag

Country music star Chris Stapleton recently collaborated with Filson on the Traveller collection that features both clothing and travel gear. One of the standout pieces is the rereleased archived duffel. The Traveller Outfitter Bag is one of Stapleton’s favorites and we understand why: It has an adjustable shoulder strap, a large main compartment for a few days' worth of clothing, and a comfortable leather grip handle. The leather on the handle won’t transfer any color and with each wear, the leather gets softer.

christmas present ideas for travel

Browit silk sleeping bag

This silk sleeping bag sack gives a subtle glamping touch to any camping trip. The sleeping bag liner can be put into a sleeping bag for added comfort, or placed on top of a blow-up mattress or even a hotel bed. It comes with a drawstring bag that makes it easy to store and pack.

christmas present ideas for travel

Simo Solis Portable Hotspot

When it comes to working outside of your home, we all know how unstable Wi-Fi can be. Instead of struggling through Zoom meetings on an Airbnb’s outdated router or a hotel on a crowded line, invest in your own hotspot. This one has a better bandwidth than the one you find on your phone, lasts longer, and won't run down your phone battery.

christmas present ideas for travel

Collapsible Food Tent

This is an ideal gift for those who love to host outdoor get-togethers. Each tent is handwoven with long-lasting sinamay abaca fiber. It can easily be placed over trays, bowls, plates, and cups to keep bugs out of the food.

Béis The Expandable Pouch

Versatile is the best way to describe The Expandable Pouch from Béis. It transforms from a fanny pack into a sleek, lightweight backpack, with plenty of space to fit must-haves for a whole day. It's great for trips with packed itineraries, and when you find yourself picking up items throughout the day.

christmas present ideas for travel

Aman x 111Skin nourishing gold algae eye mask

Perfect for the skincare routine queens on your list, these eye masks blend the expertise of Aman and 111Skin. A set comes with eight Nourishing Gold Algae Eye Masks to hydrate and brighten the under-eye area. They’ll come in handy after long-haul flights, or just the post-holiday drive home.

christmas present ideas for travel

Té Company Tea set

The Formosa tea set is a perfect starter bundle for those looking to expand their tea palate. It has seven different blends and includes detailed instructions on the tea-making process to guide your giftee toward the perfect cup.

christmas present ideas for travel

Four Seasons velvet slippers

Slippers are a no-fail gift option for pretty much anyone on your list, and this velvet style from Four Seasons will bring a touch of luxury to their day. The elastic back makes them easy to slip on and off, and the recycled rubber sole adds some durability to them.

christmas present ideas for travel

Oui The People Body Renewal set

Oui The People has been bringing some heat to the skincare world, with formulas that produce an unmatched glow. The brand's holy trinity includes the new Clean Slate body wash, Cheat Sheet body exfoliant, and Featherweight body oil. The trio work together to achieve visibly smoother, brighter, and more hydrated skin.

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Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones can improve any journey, whether they're blocking out a snoring plane neighbor or immersing you in movie after movie on a long car ride. This popular option from Sony offers multi-device Bluetooth pairing, so you can connect to two devices at once and switch between them seamlessly.

christmas present ideas for travel

Kindle Paperwhite

Amazon’s best-selling, waterproof Kindle Paperwhite is perfect for bookworm travelers—its battery lasts for weeks, it can hold more than 2,000 e-books, and the adjustable warm lighting emulates actual book pages.

christmas present ideas for travel

Verloop trio colorblock knit touchscreen gloves

Add some fun to a practical gift with these colorblock touchscreen gloves from Verloop. The nano-metallic knit fingertips allow you to keep using your phone without sacrificing warmth—ideal for winter travel, especially on days when you’re relying on Google Maps to get around.

christmas present ideas for travel

Malin + Goetz Essential Starter Kit

This is the ideal stocking stuffer for the traveler who is always squirreling away shampoo and body wash minis from hotels. They'll be treated to a full swath of toiletries—face cleanser and moisturizer, body wash and lotion, shampoo, and conditioner—all with the delicious scents Malin + Goetz is known for.

christmas present ideas for travel

Pi7 S2 Wireless earbuds

Bowers & Wilkins have created an industry first: a wireless audio retransmission case, so you no longer have to worry about swapping out your headphones on the plane to enjoy in-flight entertainment. Simply plug each end of the included audio cable into the case and seatback console for up to five hours of crystal clear audio.

christmas present ideas for travel

Shinola denim duffle

The denim duffel is Shinola Detroit's spin on an American classic. It's made from American denim and reimagines the brand's traditional cotton duffel with a more elevated flare. Accompanied by a striped band, you can carry it as a crossbody, over the shoulder, or opt to tuck the strap in and use the elegant arched handles.

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Patagonia Provisions roasted garlic mackerel

Upgrade your outdoorsy traveler's camping meals with anything from Patagonia Provisions. We're fans of the brand's tinned fish , and especially this tender, garlicky mackerel. A single can makes a great stocking stuffer, but if you're shopping for a full-on seafood lover, splurge on the Tinned Seafood Sampler Box .

christmas present ideas for travel

Lyft Gift Card

Calling Lyfts while traveling can quickly add up; a gift card helps take the pressure off any back and forth over whether a car is worth it or not, making it a great gift for younger travelers heading out on group trips or gap years. Another perk: Lyft's partnership with Delta means SkyMiles members can earn miles with each ride.

christmas present ideas for travel

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole mini hip pack

We love a good fanny pack here at Traveler , and Patagonia's is ideal for any frequent hikers (or bikers) on your gift list. Given its size—it stuffs into its own small pocket when not in use—and light weight (3.5 ounces), it's great to throw into your suitcase to use on city trips, too.

christmas present ideas for travel

Apollo Walker picnic backpack bag

This all-in-one picnic fits comfortably inside a backpack and includes everything one could imagine: a set of stainless steel knives, forks, spoons, dinner plates, napkins, and wine glasses, just to name a few. As the cherry on top, it comes with a waterproof blanket.

christmas present ideas for travel

Oak Essentials Mini Routine

Fancy skincare products are always welcome, especially when they come in a travel-size set that means you don’t have to rely on whatever’s in the hotel or Airbnb. This set, which comes with complimentary gift-wrapping, comes with the five products that make up Oak Essentials’ routine: a cleansing balm, balancing mist, ritual oil, moisture rich balm, and restorative mask.

christmas present ideas for travel

Yellowstone National Park magnet

Like Parks Project , another  Traveler -favorite company for gifts for outdoorsy pals, The Landmark Project creates national park-themed gear that raises money to preserve outdoor spaces. These national park magnets make great stocking stuffers, and if you purchase something from the  Smokey Bear collection , 10 percent will go to the US Forest Service. 

christmas present ideas for travel

Away The Bigger Carry-On

When it comes to luggage, Away is a solid choice—you can find this bag and many other Away styles in the closets of many a Traveler editor. Treat the graduate, new traveler, or family member in need of a suitcase upgrade to this larger-than-average carry-on.

christmas present ideas for travel

Amalfi Coast coffee table book

Perfect for the traveler who just moved, or is in the middle of redecorating, this Assouline coffee table book will add a splash of color to any living room. Inside, there is plenty of eye candy and details on the 13 towns that comprise the Amalfi Coast.

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Cadence The Bestsellers

These toiletry travel bottles have changed the game when it comes to bringing your own products with you—they are entirely leak-proof, and are magnetized, making them snap together to minimize they space they take up in your Dopp kit and the hotel shower.

christmas present ideas for travel

Carbone print

Created by a former New Yorker editor, All the Restaurants offers limited-edition, hand-drawn sketches of iconic restaurants in New York, London, Paris, and Napa Valley. Order one to commemorate a special meal with a loved one, or one you’re still dreaming of visiting together.

1000 Perfect Weekends Great Getaways Around the Globe

1,000 Perfect Weekends: Great Getaways Around the Globe

For the traveler who doesn't know where to go next, this National Geographic book will give them plenty of inspiration. It is filled with 36- to 72-hour weekend guides to places around the world, with itineraries meant to tack onto existing trips or use as a weekend getaway from home (tags let readers know what hub the destination is within six hours of). Inside, you'll find ideas for beachy escapes, nature parks, food and wine-focused trips, even pet-friendly vacations. Also mixed in: helpful insights like wheelchair-friendly beaches to visit in the U.S.

Allbirds Tree Dashers

Allbirds Tree Dasher

Traveler readers went wild for Allbirds' first running shoe when it debuted in 2020 , and again when a higher-ankle version was released last year. Share the wealth of comfortable kicks this holiday season—they come in nearly a dozen colors, are lightweight and pack down well, and look sufficiently non-sporty enough to wear throughout a trip, not just while exercising. (For those who live in cold-weather climates, the newer Wool Dasher Mizzles are a good option, too.)

christmas present ideas for travel

Noshinku refillable pocket hand sanitizer (three-pack)

A practical, but extremely useful travel accessory: hand sanitizer. Noshinku gets bonus points for its slim profile, aesthetically pleasing colors, and refillable design. File this under gifts that will most definitely be used.

christmas present ideas for travel

1Mii Bluetooth 5.0 adapter

Sometimes, the best gifts are the most practical. This pocket-size Bluetooth transmitter lets you watch in-flight entertainment with your AirPods, or any other cordless headphone you may use. Never stress about forgetting that second pair of earbuds again.

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Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

A favorite of Traveler editor Meaghan Kenny, this popular lip balm makes for another great stocking stuffer or gift set inclusion. Use it at bedtime, in the morning, or mid-flight to hydrate dry, flaky lips.

Nodpod eye mask

Nodpod eye mask

An eye mask is a light sleeper's travel essential, and Nodpod took things up a notch by creating a weighted version. Best for long-haul flights where you'll be in a lay-flat seat, or to use in bed—the mask can be secured with its pull-through slit, but is best used simply draped over your eyes—it adds a bit of weight to your eyes, promoting a deeper, more restful sleep.

christmas present ideas for travel

Alex Mill The Perfect Weekday Tote

Every traveler needs a solid tote to bring on road trips and use as a personal item. This Alex Mill bag gets the job done and has a classic look they won't tire of. It fits up to a 13” laptop, plus all the other essentials: phone, keys, wallet, water bottle, snacks, the works.

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Lay-n-Go drawstring toiletry bag

Travelers who are also regulars at Sephora or Ulta will appreciate this cool makeup bag : Instead of having to dump out all your products to find what you're looking for, the bag opens up by way of drawstrings, and can be laid out as a circle on any surface, allowing every product to be on display.

christmas present ideas for travel

Mountain Valley Train Puzzle

The 1,000-piece puzzle, made out of other recycled puzzle boards, is based on the artwork of Lars Stewart. This super-detailed piece captures a scenic ride through the Arizona desert with illustrations of wildlife, maps, recognizable travel gear, and more.

christmas present ideas for travel

Ceremonia The Scalp Power-Duo

Ceremonia is a favorite of many Traveler editors, and this haircare set will turn any giftee into a fan. It comes with a scalp massager and scalp remedy oil—use the former to distribute the latter evenly and gently exfoliate the scalp.

Behind the Bar Book

Behind the Bar: 50 Cocktail Recipes from the World's Most Iconic Hotels by Alia Akkam

Written by Traveler contributor Alia Akkam , Behind the Bar takes readers to 50 iconic hotel bars around the world, offering recipes and historical tidbits from each. Perfect for the consummate host in your friend group, they'll have a good time recreating classics and discovering new cocktails from home.

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Parachute Waffle Robe

A cozy robe is always a winner in our book, and Parachute makes some of the best. This classic waffle robe will remind them of days spend luxuriating at the hotel spa.

christmas present ideas for travel

Papier travel notebook

You're either a journal person or you're not, but if you are, you know you can never have too many notebooks on hand. This pretty Papier pad will be a welcome addition to the stack, and is customizable: choose lined, plain, or dotted sheets, and either a hard or soft cover.

Go Neck Pillow

Go Neck Pillow

Ostrichpillow makes a whole bunch of nap-friendly designs , but we're partial to the classic Go Neck pillow for long-haul flights or lengthy road trips. It is made with a supportive (and compressive) memory foam, and has a Velcro close for an easily adjustable fit. Plus, it comes with a carrying case.

A bag.

Béis The Weekender Bag

A real text I got from a friend after writing about this Béis weekender : “BÉIS CONVERT FOREVER. You did not oversell this. Truly a miracle.” It has plenty of room inside for clothes, accessories, and toiletries, and a bottom compartment for shoes, dirty clothes, or anything else you want to keep separate.

Welly Adventure Kit

Welly Adventure Kit

Slip this into the stocking of any thrill-seeking , accident-prone traveler. It comes with all the essentials—more than 50 bandages, tape, butterfly strips, antibiotic packets, hydrocortisone packets, Ibuprofen—in a compact, easy-to-stash kit.

christmas present ideas for travel

Mzoo contoured sleep mask

A good sleep mask is a travel essential for overnight flights. This one is made of memory foam and has raised sections over your eyeballs for added comfort, but lies flat around the nose and eyebrows to thoroughly block out light.

christmas present ideas for travel

Ugg Scuffita slide slipper

Shopping for a homebody? Consider these shearling-lined Ugg slippers, made for lounging around the house (or hotel, or Airbnb) in peak comfort and style.

christmas present ideas for travel

Upoy charging station

This multi-port charging station is a gift for the whole family—or for one very tech-obsessed traveler who need to juice up a phone, AirPods, smart watch, and Kindle all at once.

christmas present ideas for travel

Mansur Gavriel Soft Lady Bag

A re-imagination of Mansur Gavriel's popular Lady Bag, the Soft Lady Bag was released to celebrate the original's five-year anniversary. It's softer and slouchier than its predecessor, meaning it'll pack down better in your suitcase. With room for daily essentials (a phone, wallet, keys, earphones, and even an iPad) and interior compartments to keep you organized, it's a polished crossbody you'll use for years to come.

christmas present ideas for travel

Paravel Packing Cube Quad (set of four)

Paravel's packing cubes—which helped turn Traveler editor Lale Arikoglu into a more organized packer —are a practical gift any traveler will appreciate. They now come in a set of four, with two small cubes, a medium, and a large; for an extra touch, have them personalized with your giftee's initials.

Diptyque Orphon Eau de Parfum

Diptyque Orphéon Eau de Parfum

Diptyque candles are always a welcome gift, but for something a little more unique, go for one of the brand's eau de parfums. This one was formulated to recreate the scent of a ’60s Parisian bar—the woody scent smells great spritzed around the home.

Airbnb gift card

Airbnb gift card

Here at Traveler, we're always on the hunt for the coolest, coziest Airbnbs, whether we're looking for a romantic cabin getaway , a house with a pool , or one that can brighten up our mood with the sheer amount of color found within its four walls. For the travelers in your life who are also keen on staying in a rental, Airbnb gift cards can be purchased in amounts from $25 up to $500, so you can chip in (or cover) their next stay.

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Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

Arguably the most popular sunscreen amongst Traveler editors, this gel-like face SPF blends in easily, leaves no white cast, and feels great on your skin. It'll be a welcome addition to any stocking stuffer or gift set.

Polaroid Hi·Print 2x3 Pocket Photo Printer

Polaroid Hi·Print 2x3 Pocket Photo Printer

Now that we all walk around with high-quality cameras in our pocket, fewer of our photos actually make it to print. This pocket-size printer from Polaroid spits out vibrant 2"x3" photos, so you can instantly hand over that new family portrait to grandma or share physical photos with a travel companion. 

christmas present ideas for travel

Sabah slip-ons

Comfortable shoes are a hot topic among travelers and these Sabah slip-ons have articles director Lale Arikoglu's stamp of approval . Handmade in Turkey, they come in a range of colors and are long-lasting: “After six years of ownership, my pair is completely intact with the exception of the color, which is slightly fading in a way that, if anything, has only made them look better,” Arikoglu says.

Nixon Wizard Stick Beverage Sling

Nixon Wizard Stick Beverage Sling

This is a niche gift, but there's someone on your list who will absolutely love it. Nixon's insulated beverage sling fits six cans at once; they can bring it along to picnics, camping trips, tailgates, or hikes to keep drinks cold and avoid the clunkiness of a tote bag or backpack.

Hinoki Wood Rice Ball Mold

Hinoki Wood Rice Ball Mold

There are food gifts for friends who want a meal or snack that's nearly ready to go right out of the box. Then, there are gifts that require some effort. For the home chef who's looking to expand their cooking skills, gift a new kitchen tool like this rice ball mold, which they can use to shape homemade onigiri.

Gastro Obscura A Food Adventurer's Guide

Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide

Another great coffee table book, Atlas Obscura's new tome is made for travelers who plan their trips around food. Inside, readers will find a  guide to food experiences around the world, with chapters on every continent (including Antarctica!), as well as features on foodies like Tom Carvel, events like the Chicago World Fair,  and “how to try it” tips. Just a few noteworthy inclusions: Jeju Island's free-diving sea women in South Korea, the world's largest edible mushroom in Zambia, and the great fruitcake toss in Colorado.

The Carried Away Convertible Backpack

The Carried Away Convertible Backpack

Sarah Jessica Parker collaborated with Samsonite on this versatile bag, which has since sold out multiple times. It's a jack-of-all-trades—wear it as a backpack, carry it as a tote, or sling it over your shoulder. It comes with a removable clutch and an extra strap to turn the smaller bag into a cross-body. Otherwise, it has all the bells and whistles you'd expect in a travel backpack : luggage sleeve, water bottle pocket, laptop slot, etc.

Bokksu snack box subscription

Bokksu snack box subscription

There is no shortage of subscription boxes out there, but we're particularly fond of the edible ones. Bokksu, a Japanese snack service that recently launched an online Asian grocery store , sends recipients an assortment of sweet and savory snacks, candies, and teas on a monthly basis, sourced from small, family-run businesses in Japan.

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book

Commemorate a special trip with a photo book from Artifact Uprising. Whether it's your first big trip this year or one taken decades ago, your loved ones will appreciate the thought that goes into picking out your favorite memories together.

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  • Gifts for grown-ups

The 31 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

A selection of our favorite gifts for travelers, including Aesop travel cosmetics, a book on national parks, an eye mask, and more.

By Samantha Schoech and Dorie Chevlen

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, there should be something here to suit their wanderlust.

Luggage helper

A person pulling a suitcase on wheels that has the Cincha Travel Belt bag attached to the handle.

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.

Buying Options

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 (if unglamorous) offering. 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, even when it’s unclasped. Yes, this is a practical gift, but for the right traveler, it will be a real gem.

The Penkou Portable Neck Fan in front of a blue background.

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 they found it difficult to stay cool and comfortable on the go. New York City’s own heat wave prompted associate 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 due to its smooth plastic design, it’s barely noticeable against the neck and shoulders. There’s one large button on the front right, making 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

A person's hands refilling a bottle of Noshinku Hand Sanitizer with a Noshinku refill pouch.

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

Our pick for best reading light overall, the Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light, shown clipped onto a book that is open to a page in the middle.

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.

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

A spread of two pages about Alta Badia in Italy, taken from Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When travel book.

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 AirTags next to each other.

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.

You save $20 (20%)

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

The Peace Out Puffy Eyes box next to the patches.

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

A person refilling a lifestraw water bottle with water from an outdoor faucet.

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. (To learn a little more, see our article on the LifeStraw Max Water Filter .)

Plane entertainment

christmas present ideas for travel

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

A Zendure SuperMini 20W.

Zendure SuperMini 20W

This is the smallest and lightest power bank we’ve tested. It has USB-C PD and USB-A ports, and it comes in several colors. It also has rounded edges, so it’s easy to slip into a pocket.

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 this power pack , which also happens to be the smallest model we tested. But there’s more to love than just its pocket size. The Zendure SuperMini 20W ’s USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port can charge most handheld devices (and recharge the power bank itself) at top speed, and the USB-A port can handle any older, non-USB-C devices. In other words, this thing is fast and versatile.

An unmissable luggage tag

An Ovener Silicone 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

A State Bags Bensen Dopp Kit in blue, green, and yellow color block.

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

christmas present ideas for travel

Cadence Capsules

These leakproof plastic travel containers hold half an ounce of solids, liquids, or capsules; 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

The Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set.

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

Two pairs of Sockwell's Lifestyle Firm Compression 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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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

A person is standing outside, wearing the Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack in sage green.

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

A person wears the White + Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan in a blush color.

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 but 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

The Pantone 10 Notebooks set, which is a box with 10 brightly colored notebooks in it.

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-5½-inch soft-cover 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

A family gathered around a table, playing Tokaido, the board game.

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

A view into a window with flowers and a house. Words in the middle read: Open a new window somewhere in 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. WindowSwap offers a strangely compelling experience, allowing someone to take a break to stare out a window in cities like Copenhagen, Prague, and Manila. Some of the window scenes are tranquil, others are not, but all suggest 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 of 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.

Noise-cancelling bliss

A pair of Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700.

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

These over-ear headphones are traveler-friendly, thanks to their noise-cancellation feature and lightweight, comfortable design.

A traveler can’t turn down the volume of an airplane’s engine, but the right pair of noise-cancelling headphones can. Such headphones are designed to reduce low-pitched droning sounds—in other words, exactly the kind of noise encountered in an airplane. After reviewing travel gear for more than six years, we think the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are the best to help travelers relax and block too-loud plane noise.

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

A Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow.

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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 even 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

A person's hand holding the Yogasleep Travel Mini Sound 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 , 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

christmas present ideas for travel

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).

Global foods sampler

christmas present ideas for travel

Tapas for Two Gift Box

This gift box for two takes you on a Spanish food journey, including favorites such as jamón serrania and chorizo.

Our kitchen team is wild about the Despaña Tapas for Two Gift Box , which offers a seemingly bottomless assortment from a famed Spanish food importer. (The box is among the other great options in our favorite gift baskets guide .) Staffers were particularly smitten with the anchovy-stuffed olives, trio of Spanish cured pork, and delectable Cabo de Peñas tinned sardines. The cornucopia of savory treasures comes in a brown paper box tied with a red ribbon, and there’s an option to add a card. In short, this box offers all of the interesting stuff your favorite traveler would grab off the shelves from a small grocery store en España.

Travel posters with classic appeal

christmas present ideas for travel

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 hearken 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.

Watercolors and travel journaling for the DIYer

The Leuchtturm1917 Hardcover Notebook open next to a pen.

Leuchtturm1917 Notebook

With its page numbers, index pages, ribbon bookmarks, and sticker labels, this notebook is ideal for documentarians.

christmas present ideas for travel

Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set

This 14-pan watercolor set renders plein air painting possible, thanks to a slide-out palette, a water dish, and a quality brush.

Any traveler who’s interested in creating their own travel journal needs the right materials. The Leuchtturm1917 Notebook features thick, ink-proof paper, which works very well with pen and pencil. And as long as the artist isn’t too heavy-handed, it can also accommodate some light watercolor washes without warping. Your loved one can brighten their works with the Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set . This small, travel-friendly set of high-quality watercolors comes with everything a painter needs to get started (except the paper).

Cutlery to go

The Hydro Flask Flatware Set, displayed next to a plat on a dinner table setting.

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 ladling 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

Two hands hold a bright green Tusk Siam 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 .

This article was edited by Hannah Morrill and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guides

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

Dorie Chevlen

Dorie Chevlen is a staff writer from Youngstown, Ohio, now living in Los Angeles. She has worked as a copy editor, fact checker, and sandwich maker, but this is probably her favorite gig. Beyond her Wirecutter work, Dorie writes screenplays and contributes frequently to other sections of The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The LA Review of Books, and Slate, among others. She has been called—both flatteringly and not—“a lot.”

Mentioned above

  • 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  
  • Our power bank picks allow you to pack hours of extra battery life in a pocket or purse to charge a phone, tablet, or other small electronic device. The Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks for Phones and Tablets  
  • We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases. The Best Luggage Tags  
  • After stuffing, shaking, and dunking 23 toiletry bags, we chose six that can serve as your bathroom-in-a-bag in many travel scenarios. Here's what we recommend. The Best Toiletry Bags  
  • After researching and traveling with packing cubes for more than five years, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set is what we keep in our luggage. The Best Packing Cubes  
  • Whether you’re buying compression socks at your doctor's orders, for running or working out, or just because, here are the best options in a variety of styles. The Best Compression Socks  

Further reading

christmas present ideas for travel

How to Sleep Well (or at Least Better) While Traveling

by Christine Ryan

Our sleep and travel editors recommend gear for coping with travel-induced insomnia, vetted through hours of testing and years of personal experience.

christmas present ideas for travel

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

by Haley Perry

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.

A pair of briefs and a pair of underwear, both blue, hang on an outside clothing line.

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 two travel strollers we recommend, the Uppababy Minu V2 and the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller, standing next to each other.

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.

Watch CBS News

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

By Kaylyn McKenna

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.

Travel Gifts: Kindle and Herschel Backpack

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

SPANX Women's Airessentials 1/2 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

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

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

Nintendo Switch – OLED Model W/ White Joy-Con Console with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Game

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

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

Monos Metro Crossbody

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.

kindle.png

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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  • 20 idiot-proof gifts under $200 for everyone on your Christmas list

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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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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People wearing woolen Glerups slippers sitting on staircase

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

Purist Maker Coffee Mug

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.

hand held travel iron for clothes

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?

Small white Bluetooth gadget that plugs into headphone jack

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.

Trtl Travel Pillow in gray

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?”

Black Yeti mug with handle and straw lid

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.

Red and purple belt securing a white tote bag to a suitcase handle

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.

Black fleece headband with headphones built into it

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.

Woman using a massage gun on her shoulder

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

Two Thule compression packing cubes

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.

Three Baggu pouches with a smiley face pattern on them.

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.

Ries travel toiletry bottles being refilled

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.

Two black and white vanity cases

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.

Olive green travel jewelry case holding rings, necklaces, and bracelets.

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.

Green nylon packing cube for shoes

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

brown leather belt bag

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.

Wax canvas tote bag

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.

Paravel fold up duffle bag in olive green

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.

Ivory backpack with brown leather details

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.

Matador Freefly16 packable backpack shown unfolded and folded

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.”

Man holding brown leather weekend bag

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.

Longchamp x Robert Indiana Travel Tote

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.

Wine colored Cotopaxi Allpa roller bag suitcase

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.

Yellow suitcase

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.

Pet carrier in green camo print with hot pink straps

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.

black and white duffel bag with hidden garment bag hidden inside

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

Small black jar of eye cream with blue type

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.

Bottle of Kinfield bug spray

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.

Four travel size bottles of skincare items

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

Wool plaid women's coat

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.

Man wearing camo print puffy poncho

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.

Silk bathrobe with marbled pattern

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.

Blue rubber clog

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.”

Puffy clog slippers in brown

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.

Forest green handknit beanie with pom pom

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.

Oversized sunhat in geometric pattern

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.

Pink Turkish travel shoes

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.

gray wool bootie

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.

Bombas compression socks in navy blue and red

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

Red travel blanket and its carrying case

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.

black and bronze mini coffee grinder

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.”

AeroPress coffee maker

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.

Person snowshoeing with poles in snow

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).”

maven binoculars

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)

Pink wireless headphones for kids

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.

Mini kids backpack with a dinosaur print on it

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.

Solar lamp in the shape of a flower

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.

Ride-on suitcase for kids

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.

2-gifts for travelers-wayb-pico portable car seat.png

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.

Fanny pack diaper bag

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.

Riverdale Park East

The 31 Best Travel Gifts for Anyone With Wanderlust

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

the best travel gift ideas, pet carrier, suitcase, passport holder, luggage scale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Headshot of Rachel Klein

Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics , where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you'll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend. 

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The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog

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

best travel gift ideas

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.

best gifts for travelers 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

best travel gift for your favorite traveler

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

best travel gift ideas 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

best travel gift ideas for your loved one - 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

Belkin Mini Surge Protector perfect gift for Traveling

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

Anker Portable charger PowerCore Lite best travel gift ideas

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

sleep phones make best travel gift ideas

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

best travel gifts bio tech light

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.

best gifts for traveling under 25 dollars

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

Plug Adapter best travel gifts

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

Plug Adapter best travel gifts

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

gifts for your favorite traveler

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

Foldable Carry on travel gifts

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

travel gifts 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

Travel Gifts Phone 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

Moisturizing Travel Kit gifts for travel under 25 dollars

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

best gifts for traveling 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

World Scratch Map best travel gift ideas

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

Travel cork globe with pegs best travel gift ideas

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

Wall art World Map best Travel Gift ideas

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

candles travel gift

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

gifts for travelers make up

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

Gifts for Travel lovers - 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

best travel gift ideas for your loved one - Silk Scarf

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

Women's Travel Gift ideas - Bra and Underwear 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 travel gifts for frequent travelers

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

best travel gift ideas hand held 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

travel essential for frequent flier 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

travel essential for women frequent fliers

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

best travel gift ideas Dopp Travel Toiletry Bag for Men

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

Travel Gifts for Men Exofficio Briefs

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

Fleece Jacket for Traveling best travel gifts

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

travel gifts passport Wallet for Men who travel

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

best Travel Gifts - Tilley 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

best travel gifts 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

Hiking Headlamp gifts for adventure travelers

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

best travel gift ideas portable cup

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

Dry Bags for Kayaking best travel gifts

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

Gifts for people that travel: Leatherman Wave

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

best travel gifts Portable Travel Hammok

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

Water Filter best travel gifts

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

Travel Photography travel gifts Lenspen

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

Travel Tripod by Joby best travel gifts

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

best travel gifts Camera strap for traveling

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

best gifts for travel are cameras

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

best gifts for travel Level 8 Luggage

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

best travel gifts AirPods Pro Noise Cancelling 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

best travel gifts Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Reader

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

travel gifts Portable Bluetooth Speaker for travel

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.

travel essential for the frequent flier getyourguide gift cards

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

best travel gifts 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 

best travel gifts passport holder RFID

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

best gifts for travel passport cover RFID

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

travel essential for the frequent flier 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

best gifts for travel 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

gifts for travel

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.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

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:

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

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.

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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 =))

Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

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

Last Updated January 8, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Tips » 53 Gifts For Travel Lovers That They’ll Actually Want in 2024

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.

the wander club is one of the products featured in this gifts for travel lovers guide

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

db ramverk luggage medium check-in size in parhelion orange

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

the wander club token and holder keychain as an amazing gift for travelers

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?

christmas present ideas for travel

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 .

the wander club coupon code and promo code

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

inspiration travel books by mike and anne howard ultimate journeys for two and comfortably wild

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

eagle creek pack-it specter cube set best travel gifts for under 0

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

anker powercore power bank 10000 mah

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

victorinox travel organizer for passport boarding pass and has rfid protection in black

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

peak design tech pouch opened up with gear inside

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

eagle creek sac set gear organizer travel gift

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

fjallraven hip pack large size gift for travellers

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

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

samsonite tru frame carry on spinner suitcase in navy

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

smartwool hiking socks for men as a travel gift

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

victorinox swiss army knife with nail clippers for travelers

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

custom engraved luggage tag gifts

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

trtl pillow for travel

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

sublimeware international power adapter and usb hub for travel

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

microfiber 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

portable digital 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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

emergen-c immune support makes a great gift for travel lovers

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

exofficio give-n-go boxer briefs underwear gift

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

travel security 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

going awesome places store shop featured

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

infininty scarf for women with hidden pockets make a great gift for travel lovers

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

drop dead gorgeous dry shampoo by handmade heroes

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

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

peak design travel backpack on tongariro crossing

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

victorinox vx touring 2 in 1 backpack and suitcase

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

dr bronners organic hand sanitizer in lavender makes a great travel gift

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

best world map with pins gift for travellers

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

kammok swiftlet portable hammock stand

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

airport tag sticker pack

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

rosetta stone mandarin with hand holding app

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

fujifilm instax mini 90 camera for travellers

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

lenspen dslr pro kit

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

backblaze cloud backup membership

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

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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

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

5 pack 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

osprey ultralight dry sack gift for travel lovers

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

steripen adventurer opti gift

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.

park sleep fly airport parking discount code

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.

Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one 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.

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 . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

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.

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.

  • Insured Nomads – 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.

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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Our editors' favourite travel gift ideas

By Lauren Burvill

Travel gifts 28 of our UK editors' favourite gift ideas for globetrotters

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.’

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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 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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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 .

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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 .

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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 .

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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 .

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

christmas present ideas for travel

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.

The 40 Best Travel Gifts for the Coolest Frequent Flyers

Thoughtful presents to take wherever they go.

best travel gifts

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Sure, engines become more fuel-efficient and in-flight experiences involve better tech, but travel gadgets have evolved too. Improved luggage , travel shoes , dopp kits , and packing cubes make the journey about as enjoyable as the destination. Itineraries change and random adventures ensue, but you can rely on good travel items like these to make that work trip or vacation all the better.

So, if you're looking for a great gift for the traveler in your life, look no further than this list. We've got travel gifts for every kind of nomad, from kiddos to Grandpa and everybody in between. And we're not just dealing in suitcases and travel wallets . No, the best travel gifts do way more than that. The best travel gifts heighten the experience and bring a bit of that familiar comfort from home along with you.

What do we mean? We're talking about gifts that will get some serious use and accrue a lot of frequent flier miles. For example, a sophisticated packing cube that separates clean clothes from dirty laundry ( Eagle Creek's Clean/Dirty Cube ) or a phone mount that attaches directly on to your tray table on the plane ( Perilogics' Airplane Phone Holder Mount ). And if the adventure needs an adventure, there are even rental companies like Polaris that can set one up with that vehicle (snowmobile, ATV, autocycle) they've always dreamed of driving.

Gift the traveler in your life something special. Read on for the best travel gifts in 2023.

Best Gifts for Men | Unique Gifts for Men | Best Gifts for Wives | Best Gifts for Dad | Best Tech Gifts | Best Fitness Gifts

Mezzanine Cali Backpack

Cali Backpack

Good travel backpacks are functional while great ones offer a bit of luxury. This one is of the latter category, touting a fashionable build with sleek pockets and gussets with hidden magnetic snaps.

Read more: Best Travel Bags

Spigen Wallet S

Wallet S

Bulky wallets are the nemesis of any good traveler. This sophisticated option offers security via RFID blocking and enough space for 12 cards, all while appearing incredibly sleek and minimalist.

Perilogics Airplane Phone Holder Mount

Airplane Phone Holder Mount

Does the traveler in your life need a stocking stuffer? This phone holder mount is just the thing, engineered to hang on to a device and clip onto the tray of your airplane seat. That translates to non-stop entertainment at 30,000 feet.

Read more: Best Stocking Stuffers

Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Clean/Dirty Cube

Pack-It Isolate Clean/Dirty Cube

The traveler will appreciate this pack-it cube, which separates the dirty laundry from the clean with a floating divider. It makes packing a breeze, keeps odors at bay, and is extremely lightweight, making it very, very portable.

Philips Sonicare Battery Toothbrush

Battery Toothbrush

Say goodbye to travel hygiene with cords and spare chargers. This smart toothbrush is battery powered and comes with a slick travel case.

Anker Portable Charger

Portable Charger

A great travel gift does not have to break the bank. Proof? This portable charger, which will keep devices powered up no matter where the destination is. The charger is slim but built tough, meaning it can handle all the drops and other oopsies that come with travel.

Read more: Best Gifts Under $25

Le Labo Hinoki Body & Hair Travel Set

Hinoki Body & Hair Travel Set

Grooming can get lost in the hustle and bustle of travel. Avoid that nonsense with this excellent travel set, candy for hair and skin. It comes with high quality shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and body cream. No more not staying fresh while away from home.

Away The Medium Suitcase

The Medium Suitcase

The word suitcase can conjure up heavy containers and colossal matching sets. This carry-on luggage is redefining the category, featuring a classic look with all the modern amenities. Travelers will admire the durable shell and the unique compression system on the interior, which allows for maximum packing efficiency.

Google Chromecast

Chromecast

Dads like to unwind, perhaps even more so while traveling. Whether it's a work trip or vacation, he'll appreciate having his familiar streaming service at his side, allowing him to deep dive into a new series or rewatch his favorite movie.

Mark & Graham 6 Piece Packing Cube Set

6 Piece Packing Cube Set

Form and function, that's what the packing cube is all about. When not in use, this one takes up very little space, with compartments fitting within compartments. When needed, the six individual bags look elegant and handle every travel item, from clothing to toiletries.

Manta Sleep Sleep Mask

Sleep Mask

Cozy, adjustable, and breathable, this sleep mask set will set the traveler up with the same caliber of sleep they get at home anywhere they go. The mask is virtually weightless while allowing no light through, meaning a great snooze.

Mack Weldon Nova Travel Kit

Nova Travel Kit

Got a traveler friend who's still toting around that dopp kit they grew up with? Time for an upgrade. This one is made from recycled plastic, comes with a smart rubber base that can grip the counter, and even includes four refillable recycled bottles for those toiletry liquids.

Twelve South AirFly Pro Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

AirFly Pro Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

Smart travel involves being practical. And it's a lot easier to be practical with this bluetooth wireless audio transmitter. Simply plug it into the audio jack on the plane and send that sound wirelessly from the source to your ear buds.

On Running THE ROGER Pro

THE ROGER Pro

Superior travel shoes are sneakers on steroids—they handle multiple surfaces, are a joy to wear, and look good enough for most outings. These tennis shoes ace the travel game, great for the actual game but so versatile they can be worn just about anywhere.

olukai Ulele

Ulele

Built for the beach lover, these flip flops with arch support offer style and beach-y traits, like sliding on with ease and floating when dropped in the water. They grip well, offer tremendous comfort, and evoke just enough class that you can sport them off indoors as well as out.

Cadence The Originals - Set of 6

The Originals - Set of 6

So many things the traveler needs most—the toothbrush, the sub block, the fragrance—are thrown into the bag last minute. Keep grooming items organized in style with this innovative storage set. The honeycomb design makes it stackable while the size is up to the user, as the whole thing is customizable.

Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 Electric Trimmer and Shaver

OneBlade 360 Electric Trimmer and Shaver

Get the quality of a barbershop trim anywhere with this electric razor . The blade can stretch in all directions making it a great tool not just for beards and head hair but the entire body.

Aeropress Go Travel Coffee Press Kit

Go Travel Coffee Press Kit

For the traveler who loves a good cup of coffee and won't settle for what's at the hotel, this is the gift of gifts. Bring that lauded roast with you, whether it's for an extended camping trip or a faraway conference.

Read more: Best Gifts for Coffee Lovers

Olympus 8x25 WP II Binoculars

8x25 WP II Binoculars

The elder traveler in your clan will appreciate these petite binoculars. They offer stellar magnification without filling up your daypack and fold up nicely. Plus, the waterproof body can withstand whatever the weather throws at you.

Read more: Best Gifts for Grandpa

ARMANI Acqua di Giò Eau de Toilette Travel Spray

Acqua di Giò Eau de Toilette Travel Spray

What makes a great travel cologne? A great scent, naturally, but also a packable sprayer that can destination hop with ease. Bonus points for delivering a fragrance that offers its own sense of travel, evoking a breezy cliffside in the Mediterranean.

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The best gifts for travellers that are sure to take flight

By Jessie Atkinson , Daphne Bugler and Thomas Barrie

From luxury luggage to toiletries, here are the best gifts for travellers who are always on the move.

Whether they’re always away on business, they have family abroad or half of their heart is in Havana, finding a gift for travellers often boils down to the same thing: what would make their lives easier or more exciting while on the road? It’s a question we’ve considered closely when compiling the following list of items that we think would delight any frequent flyer come their birthday or Valentine's Day.

From big overhauls such as a brand new Away suitcase to smaller bits that’ll aid the journey (an Arket hoodie is an aeroplane must), to commemorative items for remembering the big gap year abroad, we’d like to think we have all bases covered. So, before we dive in on a niche corner of the best gifts for men and best gifts for women , here are our top picks.

What are the best gifts for travellers in 2024?

christmas present ideas for travel

Antler Packing Cubes

The secret of the impeccably prepared is finally out: they've been using packing cubes this whole time. We like Antler's for longevity, practicality and attractiveness.

christmas present ideas for travel

Abercrombie hoodie

Abercrombie

The aeroplane essential that will keep on providing stylish comfort well after the wheels have touched tarmac.

christmas present ideas for travel

Aspinal of London Leather Passport Cover

Aspinal of London

A personalised must for anyone whose passport spends more time out of the man drawer than in it.

Only now becoming wildly popular on platforms such as TikTok packing cubes have long been the secret for the...

Only now becoming wildly popular on platforms such as TikTok, packing cubes have long been the secret for the impeccably-prepared. Best for longer trips in which outfits or clothing types can be separated neatly from toiletries and underwear, Antler’s set of four are some of our current faves. £50. antler.co.uk

Lululemon ABC Jogger

Lululemon ABC jogger

You can rest assured that where comfort is concerned, Lululemon, our go-to for athleisurewear, always comes through. These skinny joggers are designed using ABC technology to remove tension and ensure they have a comfortable fit across the body with a four-way stretch design. Pair these with a hoodie and consider their airport look sorted. £118. lululemon.co.uk

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The White Company Cashmere Socks

Long haul flights sometimes call for compression socks, but for those who throw caution to the winds, nothing beats cashmere. An extra comfort during a time of deep discomfort. £36. thewhitecompany.com

Not all hotel gyms are created equal a fact that frequent flyers and those who conduct plenty of business overseas will...

Gymproluxe Resistance Bands

Not all hotel gyms are created equal, a fact that frequent flyers and those who conduct plenty of business overseas will know more than most. Well, what if we told you they didn’t even have to step foot into the lobby gym ever again? Gymproluxe’s set of resistance bands provide a full-body workout in a bundle that’ll fit in a weekend bag. £179.99 £129.95. gymproluxestore.com and amazon.co.uk

Gifts for Friends Custom Map Coasters

Custom Map Tumbled Marble Coasters

When your globetrotter returns, they may want to talk about their travels ad nauseam. Allowing them to do so is a generous show of love on your part, one you can supercharge by giving them another prompt: this set of tumbled marble coasters with a portion of their favourite destination printed on it. £77. At uncommongoods.com

Simple but essential a water bottle that will last forever is both a convenience and an ethical obligation in a world...

Chilly’s Water Bottle

Simple but essential, a water bottle that will last forever is both a convenience and an ethical obligation in a world where plastic abounds. Chilly’s make some of the best in the business, in every colour under the sun. £24. At chillys.com and amazon.co.uk

A touchstone of modern comfort the hoodie is so much more than just an easy outfit topper come that 15th hour of...

Abercrombie Hoodie

A touchstone of modern comfort, the hoodie is so much more than just an easy outfit topper come that 15th hour of consecutive travel. A soft and cosy respite from the cold, dry aeroplane AC and a portable duvet on overnight transfers. £65 £49.99. abercrombie.com

The 17 best packing cubes to make you a pro globetrotter

By Owen Gough

The best suitcases and travel bags for stylish storage on the go

By Jessie Atkinson

There are travel gifts for the travelling itself and there are travel gifts for plotting and reminiscing when back at...

Lonely Planet YOLO Book

There are travel gifts for the travelling itself, and there are travel gifts for plotting and reminiscing when back at home. Here’s a perfect example of the latter in the form of one of Lonely Planet’s ever-tremendous books, which will act as rocket fuel when it comes to planning their next adventure. £19.99. At oliverbonas.com and amazon.co.uk

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Casio A164WA-1VES Watch

One end of the financial spectrum that makes up the world of watches, a Casio has as much recognisability as a timepiece worth 100 times its cost. A sensible idea for someone going off-grid where charging points are sparing and only their phone to tell the time. £32.90. casio.co.uk

Rains Wash Bag Large

Rains Wash Bag

We love Rains’ apparel, so it’s no surprise that its travel accessories get a thumbs-up too. Like its jackets, this unisex wash bag is made from a smooth, waterproof fabric and is finished with a water-repellent zipper and webbing carry handle. A smaller bag is available, but this one will easily accommodate all the toiletries they’re taking. £39. rains.com

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Apple AirTag

Even the most organised of travellers can get lost in the fog of jet lag. Gift them a few AirTags to affix to their most important things and you'll give them peace of mind on the way out of remote locations it wouldn't be so easy to return to. £29. At johnlewis.com

Its hard to argue that planning and reminiscing are just as enjoyable as the thing itself and thats why many a travel...

Papier Travel Journal

It’s hard to argue that planning and reminiscing are just as enjoyable as the thing itself, and that’s why many a travel nut will also be an obsessive archivist. For those sketching out a regiment for their upcoming trip, Papier’s personalised journal should scratch the itch. £29. papier.com

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Built for Athletes Rucksack

An in-between rucksack for the medium-term backpacker, Built for Athletes' multi-pocketed bag may be designed for the gym, but it also makes an ideal carry-on for those who don't mind forgoing the convenience of 360 degree wheels. Just add packing cubes. £119.99. builtforathletes.com

A masturbator for the road the Arcwave Voy isnt only our favourite male masturbator its also discrete enough to travel...

Arcwave Voy Male Masturbator

A masturbator for the road, the Arcwave Voy isn’t only our favourite male masturbator , it’s also discrete enough to travel with. What, this? A portable speaker, of course, officer. £65. arcwave.com & amazon.co.uk

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Insta360 Go 3

Weighing a mere 35g and boasting a compact structural design, the Insta360 Go 3 stands as the epitome of portability in the market, particularly when you take into account the cleverly designed magnets and grip accessories that will allow you to mount this in any corner you can think of. Boasting a video resolution of 2.7k at 30fps and gyro stabilisation, this will safely cover all the needs of most content creators on the go. £359.99. store.insta360.com

Treat Republic Personalised Brass Sundial  Compass

Treat Republic sundial and compass

Take things back to basics with a gift that can be stowed away in their luggage for many an expedition. Constructed from polished brass, it comes in a protective pouch to keep it safe on their travels and can be personalised with up to 90 characters, accommodating anything from initials to a heartfelt message or their favourite quote. £65. At johnlewis.com

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Liberty Travel Chess Set

To travel often or for long periods is to encounter bags of time that need to be filled. When films, crosswords and TikToks get old, they could always pull out the Liberty London printed chess set you kindly bought them. Complete with pegs to offset potential turbulence. £34.99. libertylondon.com

In the context of The North Faces resurgence as the grail coat of roadmen and rappers alike it can be hard to remember...

The North Face Nuptse jacket

In the context of The North Face’s resurgence as the grail coat of roadmen and rappers alike, it can be hard to remember just how warm and practical they are, fashion considerations aside. Whether they’re planning a ski trip or just a week or two in baltic New York in January, the Nuptse somehow manages to be both simultaneously breathable and impenetrable to cold. £315. thenorthface.co.uk

The big daddy of overear headphones Apple's AirPods Max aren't only the accessory to be seen with in the airport but...

Apple AirPods Max

The big daddy of over-ear headphones, Apple's AirPods Max aren't only the accessory to be seen with in the airport, but some of our favourites for tuning out the world. £499. At amazon.co.uk

Gifts for Girlfriends Antler Chelsea Backpack

Antler Chelsea Backpack

Sometimes a product comes along that everyone feels they must cop: a bottle of Le Labo Santal 33, a Carhartt duck canvas jacket. Gentlemen, this time it has happened with a backpack, namely Antler’s ‘Chelsea’, a simple and slick travelling grail that slips onto suitcase handles and has acres of space inside. £140. antler.co.uk & amazon.co.uk

An inevitable result of women's clothing failing to come with pockets Anything that isnt a handbag with the capacity to...

Hidden Pocket Scrunchies

An inevitable result of women's clothing failing to come with pockets? Anything that isn’t a handbag with the capacity to carry things around in is a real thrill. Imagine our delight upon finding this set of scrunchies with hidden compartments! Imagine hers! £23. At uncommongoods.com

Leather tech roll organiser

Leather tech roll organiser

Leather tech roll might sound like an up-and-coming underground band (and it very well might be), but in this instance, its meaning is more literal. Crafted from soft, natural cowhide leather and suede, this rollbag is specifically designed to house all manner of tech accessories, from chargers and cables to plugs and miniature battery packs. With the option for personalised name debossing, it’s the ultimate gift for organised travellers with a hankering for luxury. £59. At notonthehighstreet.com

The point of Aways hanging toiletry bag is simple arrive at the Airbnbhotel roomfriends borrowed apartment chuck your...

The Hanging Toiletry Bag

The point of Away’s hanging toiletry bag is simple: arrive at the Airbnb/hotel room/friend’s borrowed apartment, chuck your stuff in the wardrobe, then unzip the toiletry bag and hang it in the bathroom for instant access to your razor, shampoo , moisturiser , and whatever else you need to freshen up after your journey. A nice idea, at a reasonable price. £60. a waytravel.com

Aspinal of London Passport Cover

Aspinal Of London Passport Cover

When all else fails, get a passport holder. Aspinal Of London does some of the very best, with a cornucopia of colours to choose from and free embossing currently on offer. Crafted from the finest Italian leather, the inside is lined with butter-soft suede, plus there’s a handy grosgrain ribbon marker allowing you to find those stamped pages with ease. £85. aspinaloflondon.com

A worthy gift for the presents that cost 20 and under file if ever we saw one hand over a set of five miniature...

Fragrance Miniatures

A worthy gift for the presents that cost £20 and under file if ever we saw one, hand over a set of five miniature fragrances to the person who’s forever travelling — and forever bemoaning their inability to pack full-size bottles in their cabin bag. This LookFantastic-curated set comes with a £10 voucher that they can redeem against a full-size version of their favourite spritz. £10. At lookfantastic.com

While the 72hour in this product's name is more of a guideline than a hard upper limit we agree that Arkets duffle bag...

Arket Duffle Bag

While the 72-hour in this product's name is more of a guideline than a hard upper limit, we agree that Arket’s duffle bag is best utilised for a long weekend away. Compact and hardy in nylon, it features several pockets for items including a laptop, passport, paperback and charger – as well as for whatever outfit you plan to wear around Milan/Copenhagen/Porto/Vienna (take your pick). £159. arket.com

Swim shorts SPF and sandals aside a pair of joggers may well be the most popular travel companion. Why Well first of all...

Gymshark Joggers

Swim shorts , SPF and sandals aside, a pair of joggers may well be the most popular travel companion. Why? Well, first of all, there’s the plane journey. But there’s also those long, slow hours between pool and dinner time, when being comfortable in the hotel room is of utmost importance. We like Gymshark's for comfort and affordability. £36. gymshark.com

Personalised Stamp Destination Print

Personalised Stamp Destination print

Completely customisable, these prints are designed specifically for travellers, incorporating nine stamps, each representing a destination of your choosing. Whether you want them to remember a specific trip or you just pick their favourite cities, this is a gift that really shows you care (and that you actually listen when they’re recounting their holidays). £25. At notonthehighstreet.com

We love the pale blue pebbled look of Aways luggage tag which  will help make sure your bags dont go missing in transit...

Away luggage tag

We love the pale blue pebbled look of Away’s luggage tag, which (like, uh, all luggage tags) will help make sure your bags don’t go missing in transit or on the baggage carousel. Personalisation options are included, and it matches the colour of Away’s very handsome suitcases, too. £20. awaytravel.com

In forest green Ospreys light day pack can be put to good use as a hiking rucksack or a workday bag just the right size...

Osprey Daylite Plus day pack

In forest green, Osprey’s light day pack can be put to good use as a hiking rucksack or a workday bag just the right size for a laptop (it includes a dedicated inner sleeve), book and papers. It also happens to be the perfect size for a carry-on bag on most airlines. £70. At osprey.com & amazon.co.uk

Mac products are famously beautiful but theyre also famously expensive so help your loved one avoid tragedy with Harbers...

Harber London Leather Macbook Sleeve

Mac products are famously beautiful, but they’re also famously expensive, so help your loved one avoid tragedy with Harber’s sleek leather case. If Don Draper had a laptop cover, it would look like this. £85. harberlondon.com

Away Suitcase

Away suitcase

As far as good suitcases go, few come close to Away’s collection. The Bigger Carry-On is sized to perfection: it’s spacious enough for all of the essentials and then some while also being designed to fit in the overhead bins of most airlines. Basics aside, its features go above and beyond the usual, with an ejectable USB charger, a TSA-approved combination lock, 360-degree spinner wheels and a hidden laundry bag that means dirty clothes can be kept separately. £235. At awaytravel.com and amazon.co.uk

Sustainably made and likely to last a lifetime The Resort Co. makes some of our favourite swim shorts. As primed for...

Resort Co. Swim Shorts

Sustainably made and likely to last a lifetime, The Resort Co. makes some of our favourite swim shorts . As primed for poolside drinks and dinner in the old town as much as it is actual swimming, these are a travel gift for the perennial sunseeker. £156. theresortco.com

Swedish clothing and luggage brand Fjällräven  has been making todiefor bags and outdoor gear since 1960. This travel...

Fjällräven Kånken travel wallet

Swedish clothing and luggage brand Fjällräven (it means “Arctic fox”) has been making to-die-for bags and outdoor gear since 1960. This travel wallet encapsulates the brand perfectly: colourful, sturdy and tastefully understated, it’s a practical way to keep track of travel essentials like headphones, chargers, money and passports. £60. fjallraven.com

The world has gone stark raving mad for Sol De Janeiro and its smoothing deliciouslyscented lotions and potions. In this...

Sol De Janeiro Miniatures

The world has gone stark raving mad for Sol De Janeiro and its smoothing, deliciously-scented lotions and potions. In this jet-setting bundle of miniatures, find shower cream gel, body mist and the impossibly popular Bum Bum body cream, all in carry-on-friendly sizes. £30. At lookfantastic.com

Amazon Kindle 2022

Amazon Kindle

Amazon's latest Kindle is its lightest and most compact model to date, making it an ideal companion for travellers looking to entertain themselves in a world of near-unlimited books, without taking up too much precious space in their luggage. With an even longer battery life of up to six weeks per charge, you won't need to worry about juicing it up either. £159.99. At amazon.co.uk

You can never have too many umbrellas not least Liberty print umbrellas which are ideal to throw into a suitcase or an...

Liberty Lee Manor compact umbrella

You can never have too many umbrellas, not least Liberty print umbrellas which are ideal to throw into a suitcase or an overcoat pocket when the weather forecast for a city break is patchy. We’ve plumped for the somewhat ornate paisley Lee Manor design, but there are options for everyone, including both more and less ostentatious umbrellas. £45 £36. libertylondon.com

Olympus OMD EM10 Mark IV Mirrorless Camera

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Mirrorless Camera

If they’re a bit more serious about their snapping than their smartphone will allow, this mirrorless camera from Olympus packs advanced camera tech into a compact and very backpack-friendly frame. You get a 20MP sensor and 5-axis image stabilisation, 4K video recording and a flip-down LCD monitor, because selfies aren’t just for phones. £799 £749. At jessops.com

Theres nothing quite as drying on your skin as aeroplane air. Thankfully that also means that theres little as...

111Skin De-Puffing Face Mask

There’s nothing quite as drying on your skin as aeroplane air. Thankfully, that also means that there’s little as satisfying as the moisturising you do as you prepare to land. What better time to use something suitably OTT than then? 111Skin’s hydrogel mask more than deserves a look-in. £20. At selfridges.com

Muscle soreness doesnt dissipate just because theyre out of office especially if theyre the type to frequent the hotel...

Theragun Mini Massage Gun

Muscle soreness doesn’t dissipate just because they’re out of office, especially if they’re the type to frequent the hotel gym. For such an overachiever, we recommend a massage gun : in this miniature edition, Theragun presents a solution to lactic acid build-up and aeroplane neck that fits in their hand luggage. £194.99. amazon.co.uk

Tanboosting and antiageing is a big claim one that were sure your sunhappy giftee would be more than willing to test...

Coco & Eve Tan Boosting Oil

Tan-boosting and anti-ageing is a big claim, one that we’re sure your sun-happy giftee would be more than willing to test out. That Coco & Eve’s body oil is also imbued with SPF makes this a beauty buy essential for hols. £28. uk.cocoandeve.com

For outdoorsy types a dry bag can be worth its weight in gold. Bad luck for them then that Sea To Summits versatile...

Sea to Summit dry bag

For outdoorsy types, a dry bag can be worth its weight in gold. Bad luck for them, then, that Sea To Summit’s versatile storage bag is actually extremely lightweight, coming in at a mere 84 grams. The good news is that it won’t weigh down a sea kayak or a rucksack even as it keeps vulnerable gear bone-dry in the rain (though be warned: it’s not for submersion!). £19. seatosummit.co.uk

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

Ostrichpillow Go Neck pillow

There are travel pillows and then there are Ostrichpillows. The former, either inflatable or filled with beans, tends to be picked up as an afterthought at the airport. Opt for an Ostrichpillow, however, and you’ve all the makings of some comfortable slumber, whatever your altitude, thanks to its memory foam and 360-degree design which offers complete neck support. The material also compresses to 60 per cent of its size so is easily stored in a travel bag when not in use. It sure takes some of the blow away from long-haul travel in economy, and you can't put a price on that. £69. ostrichpillow.com

Eurostar voucher

Eurostar voucher

It’s a voucher to be redeemed on the Eurostar. Simple. Effective. You’re welcome. Up to £500. vouchers.eurostar.com

Nintendo Switch Lite

Nintendo Switch Lite

If you head over to our strictly tech-focused gift guide you’ll find us getting excited about the brand-new OLED Nintendo Switch. But while that’s undoubtedly the best version of Nintendo’s brilliant console, it’s not the most travel-friendly. The Switch Lite plays all the same games as its bigger brother, but in a more portable package. You lose the detachable Joy-Con controllers that enable big-screen play on the TV, so this is a strictly handheld device. But it’s a more comfortable handheld for it, not to mention a good deal cheaper than the standard model. £213. At amazon.co.uk

In the last ten years power banks have become increasingly essential travel accessories ensuring you dont end up...

Anker 737 Power Bank

In the last ten years, power banks have become increasingly essential travel accessories, ensuring you don’t end up navigating an unfamiliar city with a dead phone no matter how many podcasts or TV series you consume on the plane. This from Anker, can fully charge an iPhone 13 nearly five times before it needs recharging itself. £134.99. anker.com & amazon.co.uk

Assouline Travel Book Series

Assouline Travel Series

Inspiration for their next trip won’t be lacking when they open Assouline’s Travel Series on the 25th, as each book focuses on a different destination, whether it be the Athens Riviera, Dubai or Miami Beach. If this won’t send them immediately packing for their next adventure, nothing will. From £81. assouline.com

LinkOn Ganius 136W international charger

LinkOn Ganius 136W international charger

Even less seasoned travellers probably already have a drawer with a bunch of plug adaptors knocking around, but none of them will come close to this. Capable of providing an impressive 136W through its USB-C and dual USB-A ports at the same time, it’ll quickly juice up your tech without breaking a sweat. The fact that it can blast out 100W through the USB-C port alone is incredibly impressive, meaning it’s more than capable of charging fully-fledged laptops at breakneck speed. Despite this technical wizardry, it’s compact in size, and the interchangeable US, UK and EU adaptors mean that you can travel lighter too. £61. At amazon.co.uk

Tile Mate

Apple has no doubt stolen away some prospective Tile customers with its AirTags, but the original Bluetooth tracker is still a great buy for iOS and Android users alike. Attached to your valuable of choice, the Tile Mate will make a sound when you ring it from your phone (a godsend for serial keys misplacers), but if an item is properly lost or stolen you can track its location via the app and have fellow Tile users contact you when found. Nobody should travel without one. £19.99. At amazon.co.uk

Airbnb Gift Card

Airbnb Gift Card

Know they like to travel but less confident of where they’re thinking of jetting off to next? An easy and sure-to-be well-received win would be an Airbnb gift card, which can be redeemed for anything listed anywhere on the Airbnb website and never expires. Prices vary. airbnb.co.uk

Soho Home House Pool Towel

Soho Home pool towel

Known for its picture-perfect rooftop pools, from Shoreditch to Dumbo New York, Soho House has a signature stripy towel design for every house in its portfolio, all available to purchase via its interiors offshoot, Soho Home. We’re particularly fond of the mint, pink and white combo that adorns the towels used at Soho House Mumbai, but for something more personalised to your recipient’s travel ambitions, browse the full range here. £65. sohohome.com

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Go vintage or sustainable with these beautiful gifts for the wanderluster in your life

Camping cutlery tool

Wild and Wolf camping cutlery tool

A multifunctional stainless steel tool with a beechwood handle. Includes a knife, fork, spoon, corkscrew and reamer/awl. £16, shop.rnli.org

Offbeat book

Offbeat book

Off-the-beaten track alternatives to overcrowded tourist destinations for the adventurous (or antisocial) traveller. £24.99, shop.lonelyplanet.com

Vintage travel desk calendar

Vintage travel desk calendar

Monthly inspiration from a more glamorous age of travel. £14.95, stanfords.co.uk

SC RollTopMini Studio TasminBlue CutOut

Compact, lightweight and waterproof bag made from recycled plastic. £95, stubbleandco.com

RNLI travel mug

Lifeboat flask by adam

A reusable, insulated mug made from recycled paper cups. Keeps drinks warm for at least 80 minutes. £15, shop.rnli.org

World map luggage tag

Retail; World Map Luggage Tag

Made from recycled leather and featuring a print of an engraving called Newest Map of the Whole Earth, taken from the 1675 Atlas Maritimus. £10, shop.rmg.co.uk

Perfume travel set

Laboratory Perfumes travel set Picture 1

Five 5ml scents and a 120g scented candle by Laboratory Perfumes, a carbon-neutral British brand that uses mostly essential and fragrant oils. £65, laboratoryperfumes.com

Expedition meals

Firepot

Firepot’s meals are cooked by Dorset chefs from local ingredients, then dehydrated and packed in either waterproof or compostable pouches. from £7.45 or £14 for a mini taster pack, firepotfood.com

Snood and handwarmers

Cotswold Knit Hook Norton Snood Green RRP £47.00

Designed in the Cotswolds and knitted in Leicestershire from yak yarn. snood, £47, and hand warmers, £43, cotswoldknit.co.uk

Saved from the Sea

A flat-pack origami self-watering plant pot made from recycled fishing nets collected from European seas. From £16, potrpots.com

Bamboo travel toothbrush

Babmoo-toothbrush

This two-piece toothbrush has a brush and a hollow handle – the latter doubles as a carry case. £10, shop.rmg.co.uk

Wool picnic blanket

Recycled Wool Picnic Blanket in Navy Herringbone

Designed in Edinburgh and woven in India from 70% recycled wool and 30% mixed recycled fibres. £75, tartanblanketco.com

Bodycare kit

Bramley mini body care starter kit

A set of five travel-size (50ml) products from Bramley: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, bubble bath and body lotion. £18, johnlewis.com

Kids’ passport bags

Passport bag

Hand-painted in Zambia on cotton, with a hand-carved wooden animal on the zip. Tribal Textiles gives 5% of each purchase to local community and conservation projects. £13, tribaltextiles.co.zm

Water bottle

SWheat changed AMc

Plastic-free water bottle made from wheat and bamboo. For every bottle sold, the company plants a traceable native tree and removes 9kg of plastic from the sea. £25, swheatbottle.com

Ventoux Front Notebook - Handmade Cyclist

The Handmade Cyclist’s products (prints, T-shirts, mugs and notebooks) are inspired by cycling’s great roads and rides, such as Mont Ventoux, one of the toughest climbs in the Tour de France. £15, thehandmadecyclist.com

Camping blanket

VOITED RIPSTOP BLANKET

A four-in-one insulated blanket, made from recycled plastic bottles, that turns into a waterproof cape, sleeping bag and pillow. from £89, voited.co.uk

Yoga travel kit

Yoga mat

Contains a light, thin yoga mat that folds easily into a backpack or case, a lightweight microfibre yoga towel and a yoga belt. £58, yogamatters.com

Woodland den kit

British Woodland DK

Everything a child needs to build a den: tarpaulin, groundsheet, pegs, rope and a mallet made in Shropshire from coppiced wood. £50, thedenkitco.com

wild-cards-mockup-2

This pack of 36 cards is designed to help people reconnect with nature in everyday life, rather than just on holiday. All profits go to the Wilderness Foundation. £15, canopyandstars.co.uk

Moleskine traveller’s journal

Travel Journal

A journal to plan and record trips and store mementos. There is space for 20 short breaks and six longer ones. £26.99, johnlewis.com

Bamboo travel cutlery

Bamboo-cutlery-3

A knife, fork and spoon in a fabric pouch, perfect for picnics and camping trips. £5, shop.rmg.co.uk

Coffee taster pack

Love Bundle Yallah

A triple pack of coffee, bought direct from the producers at a fair price, shipped by sailboat and roasted in Cornwall. The bags are 100% plastic-free. £25, yallahcoffee.co.uk

Fairly traded milk chocolate, flavoured with wild gorse flowers picked in spring along the Cornish coastal path

Fairly traded milk chocolate, flavoured with gorse flowers picked in spring along the Cornish coastal path. Tasting notes promise toasted coconut with hints of fudge and roast nuts. £6.15, chocolarder.com

Painting kit

Sculpd Canvas Painting Kit

An all-in-one beginner’s set – including the frame and canvas, plus advice – to create an abstract work of art, perhaps inspired by a holiday photo or favourite view. £60, sculpd.co.uk

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What to Buy at Christmas Markets for Meaningful Memories and Unique Gifts

I f you do a quick search, it won’t be hard to find a list of random things that you can buy at Christmas markets. But do you really just want to buy a bunch of random tchotchkes? Do you REALLY need another Nutcracker, or is that just the mulled wine talking?

Hint: it’s the mulled wine.

Caleb and I have visited over 50 Christmas markets in Europe and have seen a lot of crappy mass-produced items that you should avoid buying. We’ve also seen plenty of unique items like regional cookie tins, city-specific mulled wine shoe mugs, and Santons that would make great gifts or souvenirs, some of which we brought home ourselves.

This guide will cover all of that with our best tips on making smart purchases! Let’s get into it!

Making Meaningful Purchases To Bring Memories Home

When you visit Europe’s Christmas markets , we recommend that you not to just think about shopping at the markets as just “shopping for stuff” because what you are going to buy and bring back shouldn’t be something that just sits on the shelf at Christmas, but we think it should be something that brings back some sort of memory every time you see it at your next Christmases when you bring it out of that old “Christmas” box you have shoved in your garage.

Whether that be a memory of your time at the market or something that unlocks a core childhood Christmas memory.  Ya, ya, ya, it’s CHEESY.  But, it’s TRUE.

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For example, my family always set up a Nativity set at Christmas growing up,  so when Caleb and I did our Christmas market extravaganza,  I looked for things that were related to a Nativity scene since it could keep unlocking that core childhood memory year after year.

Or, maybe you look for things you can bring home to work into a new Christmas tradition going forward so that, each Christmas, you are reminded of your epic Christmas market experience together!

TAYLOR’S TIP:

Collecting the mulled wine mugs would be a great way to do that. They’re easy to pack and actually practical and useful because you whip them out each Christmas. We start drinking our morning coffee from the mugs we brought home around November, and it’s always a fun little walk down the ol’ memory lane.

Finding Unique Gifts at Christmas Markets

If you’re anything like us, you’re also trying to do some Christmas shopping at the markets so you can bring some unique gifts home.

Here’s what we don’t want you to do: buy random mass-produced stuff for the people in your life. While it’ll be cool that it came from Europe, it won’t scream, “OMG, YOU REALLY THOUGHT ABOUT ME!”

You want to buy super-personal gifts for those you love, right? (I hope so) so we recommend putting your thinking cap on BEFORE you go. Think of the few people you want to buy gifts for (keep it as small as possible because you have to pack said gifts!) and make a short bullet-point list of what they like, hobbies, interests, etc.  Then, keep it on hand so you can reference it when shopping and match what you see to your person!

BOOM! A super thoughtful gift!

We also recommend trying to tie that in with specialties that you can only find at the markets to make the gift extra memorable. Not just something that could be similar to what they find at home, even if it is related to their interests.

For example, Caleb and I specifically sought out a stall that sold Elisenlebkuchen in Nuremberg (since that is the cookies’ homeland ) that sold the cookies in tins that we could transport home so we could bring our family a taste of the Christmas markets.

It was so much more thoughtful than a mulled-wine-induced random nutcracker that would just sit on the shelf.

Unique and Memorable Souvenirs At Christmas Markets

Here is a list of the things that we saw during our visit to 50+ Christmas markets that we think could make unique and memorable souvenirs for yourselves or super-thoughtful gifts to bring home.

Getting an idea of what you might find in advance should help you plan your Christmas market trip and make shopping faster and easier! We’ve only included items that are relatively packable to keep it easy only you.:

1. The mulled wine mugs

These are awesome because you can use them year after year. They are different and unique in each city, and they’re super cute and fairly easy to pack.

Bonus: they’re SUPER cheap, and mulled wine is one of the best drinks at Christmas markets , so it’s a good excuse to drink a lot of it!

2. Personalized or Engravable Items

We saw tons of handmade Christmas tree ornaments or jewelry where the Artisan had an extra service that you could personalize or engrave something to make it a little extra special and meaningful.

3. Santons 

In France, you will find Santons all over the markets. These are hand-crafted figurines that are hand-painted and used to build nativity or Christmas scenes. There are literally hundreds of different kinds of figurines, and it’s a big thing to collect them in France and use them to create scenes around your house.

This could be a SUPER special gift for someone who loves nativity scenes or those Christmas village things that your grandma always seems to have. Plus, you can’t get them anywhere else, and they’re tiny and easy to pack.

4. Regional foods

If you’re a foodie like us or are buying for a foodie, the markets have some unique and SUPER delicious things that are packable to bring home and share on Christmas.

Or, just eat yourself because you are an adult and can make your own decisions. RESPECT.

Here are the foodie things that we brought back in our backpacks:

  • S tollen from Dresden (we bought a cheap Tupperware container so it did not get smooshed)
  • Tin box of Elisenlebkuchen in Germany

The one thing you should absolutely avoid buying at the Christmas markets is the massive, hard heart-shaped lebkuchen that you will see at EVERY stall.  Those are 100% made for tourists and are horrible . They’re almost inedible.

  • Tin box of Bred le in the Alsace region of France (such as Strasbourg, one of the most beautiful Christmas markets ) These are tiny little butter cookies with a million flavors, and they’re SO GOOD.
  • Small jam containers from local vendors.  
  • Flavored liquor such as Eierlikör, the German equivalent of eggnog!

General Things to Buy At Christmas Markets That Are Packable

Because you still may want to buy some general stuff, and we won’t judge you, here are some of the most common Christmas market “things” that you can find and may be applicable to personal gifts. We’re focusing on packability here.

The general things to know about when you’re thinking about what to buy at Christmas markets in Europe are:

  • Paper stars (easy to fold up)
  • Hand-carved wooden Christmas figurines . If you can find a small wooden Christmas pyramid, that would be a unique thing to bring home for the sake of memories. Those things are part of almost every Christmas market in Europe.
  • Hand-painted Christmas ornaments.
  • Candle holders (usually hammered metal with some designs)
  • Furry hats, slippers, or mittens: these aren’t super unique, but they are useable outside of the Christmas markets and are great if you forget to pack the right winter clothes!
  • Kathe Wohlfahrt Items – This is sort of the “go-to” Christmas ornament brand around Germany and Europe. You’ll find a Kathe Wohlfahrt stall or store in almost every market.

They’re pretty, but be prepared to drop some cash as they’re not as cheap and are not made by local vendors.

Tips For Shopping At Christmas Markets

Here are our top tips when you’re shopping around the Christmas markets 

  • Take Your Time to Explore: Don’t rush through the market; just buy the first thing you see. We always recommend walking the market entirely before buying anything!

2. Look For Stalls Without Duplicates:  when walking around, see if you see any stalls selling the same things because that’s a tell-tale sign of something mass-produced. Avoid those.

We saw soooooo many of the exact same things at some of the big ( and worst!) Christmas markets , so look around and see what doesn’t have a copy. It’s worth visiting a few Christmas markets before buying anything to ensure you get quality souvenirs!

3. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Instead of buying a bunch of trinkets, focus on investing in the best options that you can use for years to come.

This is also going to be much friendlier on your suitcase!

4. Support Small Businesses: Buy right from the vendors instead of going to the bigger Christmas stores like Kathe Wohlfahrt.

5. Consider Practicality and Usefulness: While sentimentality is important, think about whether you will actually use your purchases. You don’t want them to collect dust on your shelf forever.

6. Ultimately, Trust Your Instincts and Emotions! If you see something that “sparks joy,” in the words of Marie Kondo, it’s probably a good buy!

What You Need To Know About The Christmas Markets Next:

After you’ve figured out what to buy at Christmas markets, you need to figure out what you should eat.  One thing we learned during our trip to the markets is that the food can be REALLY good or really bad!

We wrote an ultimate guide to what you have to eat at Christmas markets so you don’t waste any calories on crap stuff!

So, what tip is the most helpful here? Any questions we can help with? 

Looking for what to buy at Christmas markets? Avoid the generic lists and read our ultimate guide that'll help you find unique gifts and memories to bring home!

35 Best Gifts for 11-Year-Olds, According to Tweens and Experts

From tech sets to DIY gifts, these are the best toys for 11-year-olds.

the razor a5 lux scooter and gravitrax the game imapact are two good housekeeping picks for best gifts for 11 year olds

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.

Now fully into their tween years, 11-year-olds are ready to leave all their little kid stuff behind. But that doesn't mean they're fully done with toys, games and other fun things — they just want more sophisticated versions of them. That makes it a little tricky to find the best gifts for 11-year-olds , but there are plenty of great options if you know where to look.

From fun room decor and DIY projects to tabletop games and more, these toys came out on top in 2024. Looking for more gifts for kids ? Shop the best gifts for 11-year-old boys , best gifts for 11-year-old girls and the best gifts for teens .

Wizarding World Harry Potter Magic Wand

Harry Potter Magic Wand

If you haven't already, now is a great time to introduce them to the world of Harry Potter . But even if they haven't read the books or seen the movies, the idea of wizardry is always fun. These authentic 12-inch replica wands each come with a spell card to keep kids busy and practicing their magic. Ages 6+

RELATED: The Best 'Harry Potter' Gifts for Your Favorite Magical Kid or Adult

GlowCity Glow in The Dark Basketball

Glow in The Dark Basketball

At this age, if it glows in the dark, they'll love it. And this means the fun never has to stop because they can see the ball even if they're playing hoops after dark. Ages 8+

Refasy Electronic Piggy Banks

Electronic Piggy Banks

They are learning how money works, and are probably even getting money in lieu of toys from friends and family. Help them keep their money safe (and make them think twice before spending it), with this cool electronic piggy bank that works with a special number combination like an ATM. Ages 3+

Parima Initial Travel Jewelry Case

Initial Travel Jewelry Case

She can easily throw this cute organizer in her bag for school or family trips to keep all of her jewelry safe. But because of the pretty colors and personalized touch , it'll also look great in her room. No age recommendation given.

Pooqla LED Marquee Letter Light

LED Marquee Letter Light

You can't go wrong with multicolored anything at this age. This light can also be just a solid color if they want, like blue or red. No age recommendation given.

Just Play Motion-Controlled Music Mixer

Motion-Controlled Music Mixer

Kids can hold this colorful device in one hand and remix music by adding sound effects, layering tracks and making loops, all by using different hand motions . “My child absolutely loves this,“ one parent said in our tests. “He’s spent hours playing with it. I love how this toy really lets kids express their creativity.” Ages 8+

TCG Toys Spin Flip Puzzle

Spin Flip Puzzle

The puzzle is made of 14 concentric rings that can be spun, twisted and flipped. Kids will have to find the right configuration to complete the cool photo or design. Ages 8+

Kanoodle Pyramid

Kanoodle Pyramid

You can credit TikTok with selling more than 3 million Kanoodle games, with those accepting the #KanoodleChallenge trying to solve the brain-teasing puzzles online. But by 11, they might be ready to step up and try the harder Kanoodle Pyramid. To play, contenders have to select a puzzle with a certain configuration of pieces, and then use their smarts to see if they can fit in the remaining pieces to make a 3D pyramid shape. Ages 7+

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Toy Awards

The Secret of Lillian Velvet

The Secret of Lillian Velvet

Good Housekeeping Institute testers were drawn into this mystery book, about a lonely girl with a jar of coins — each of which takes her to a different time and place. But are they connected? "I couldn't predict how it was going to end, and it made me want to keep reading," one kid tester said. Ages 8 – 12

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Kids' Book Awards

Professor Maxwell's VR Dinosaurs

Professor Maxwell's VR Dinosaurs

Good Housekeeping testers were impressed with this STEM set, saying that it felt like dinosaurs were right there in the room with them. The set comes with VR goggles, an 80-page book filled with immersive activities and supplies for hands-on projects to do at home. Ages 8+

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Card Game

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Card Game

Easy to learn, fast to play, this is the epitome of a game you can just break out whenever there's a dull moment. Players have to flip over cards while saying one of five words (appropriately, either "taco," "cat," "goat," "cheese" or "pizza"), and if the word they say matches the word on the card they've played, all the players have to rush to slap the pile. Whoever gets there last has to take the pile, and the player who gets rid of their cards first wins. People love this so much, it has more than 43,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. Ages 8+

It's My Biz Pet Care Business Kit

Pet Care Business Kit

Get them started on an entrepreneurial path with this kit, which helps them get a pet-care business off the ground. It comes with some tools of the trade (like some pet toys, a collapsible water bowl, a pet brush and poop bags), but also marketing materials (door hangers, pins, business cards, etc) and items to keep them organized (a client book, receipts). Or, if pet care isn't their passion, there are also It's My Biz kits for a lemonade stand or babysitting business . Ages 8+

GraviTrax: The Game - Impact

GraviTrax: The Game - Impact

This game takes their marble runs to the next level: The STEM-themed brain-teasing game challenges players to make different kinds of marble runs using limited pieces. Good Housekeeping Institute testers say that, since there are challenges of varying difficulty included in the same box, older and younger siblings were able to play together. Ages 8+

Sleuth & Solve: Science

Sleuth & Solve: Science

They'll have to keep their minds sharp and their observational skills on point to solve the 20 mysteries in this book. Each of them has a science-themed bent, too, so they might pick up facts about how a baker can know if an egg is raw or hard-boiled, or how an animal expert might know if an elephant stampede is coming. If they like it, they can get the other books in the Sleuth & Solve series. Ages 8 – 12

Schylling Nee Doh Nice Cube

Nee Doh Nice Cube

Kids love Nee Doh in all shapes in sizes, from the very small to the very large to groovy shapes like fruit or cats . The Nice Cube is still fun to squeeze and squish like all the other shapes of Nee Doh, but, no matter how much you smush it, when you put it down it will always return to its cube form. Ages 3+

My Friendship Bracelet Maker

My Friendship Bracelet Maker

Those summer-camp days feel like they're here forever with this friendship-bracelet kit. Not only does it come with 20 pre-cut threads (in their own storage drawer, no less), it has a board that holds the bracelet and strands in place while the creation is in-progress. (The board even comes in several colors!) You can also use its app to find friendship-bracelet patterns and instructions. Ages 8+

Shashibo Shape Shifting Box

Shape Shifting Box

Tweens are still into the fidget craze, and this amazing box will give their hands something quiet to do for minutes on end. It unfolds into different shapes, revealing different patterns inside, and then it's a puzzle to get it back into its cube form again. Ages 8+

Big Joe Milano Bean Bag Chair

Milano Bean Bag Chair

Who wouldn't want to cozy up and read, play video games or text and chat in a chair like this? This chair impressed Good Housekeeping Institute testers with its firm fill, but really won over Lab experts with how easy it was to clean the fabric. It comes in several colors and prints, and has a handle so you can drag it around.

RELATED: The Best Bean Bag Chairs, According to Expert Testing

Melissa & Doug Scratch Art Rainbow Mini Notes

Scratch Art Rainbow Mini Notes

Notes to friends, reminders and doodles are way more fun when they're done on small squares of scratch-art paper. This comes with 125 square sheets of scratch-art paper, plus a wooden stylus to use. It's a cute gift to put in a small gift basket or party favor. Ages 4+

Pokémon Paldea Evolved Elite Trainer Box

Pokémon Paldea Evolved Elite Trainer Box

For tweens into the Pokémon Trading Card game, this box will beef up their card collections with their favorite Paldea-region Pokémon from the Scarlet and Violet games. It comes with nine booster packs, along with fun extras for players like damage-counter dice, card sleeves, coins for coin flips, status markers and energy cards. Ages 6+

RELATED: The Best Pokémon Gifts for Fans

Headshot of Rachel Rothman

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

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50+ Best Christmas Gift Ideas For Delivery Drivers (2024)

Christmas is a perfect time of year to show appreciation with Christmas gift ideas for the hardworking delivery drivers and mail carriers who ensure our online shopping packages arrive safely and on time.

Just as we express gratitude to friends and family during the holidays, it’s a great way to extend our appreciation towards the delivery drivers who make our lives easier. One way to do this is by offering them thoughtful and practical Christmas gifts.

Delivery people spend long hours and long days on the road, navigating through various routes and sometimes challenging weather conditions. It’s important to consider their needs and preferences while selecting gifts that will make their workdays more enjoyable and comfortable.

Thoughtful gift ideas for delivery drivers whether it be UPS drivers or Amazon drivers can range from items that provide comfort during long distances. They can also assist in maintaining organization, or simply offer a bit of fun and entertainment during breaks.

What to Consider When Buying Christmas Gifts for Delivery Drivers

A woman in a vest sitting in the driver's seat of a delivery vehicle delivering Christmas gifts.

When searching for the perfect Christmas gift for delivery drivers, consider factors such as durability, practicality, and convenience. Since they are often on-the-move onto their next delivery route, lightweight and portable items that can be easily stored in their vehicles are essential.

Furthermore, gifts that can withstand regular use and adapt to various work environments are a plus. These gift ideas can vary depending on if you’re buying a gift for someone who works in a warehouse, delivers, or works in public relations like Justin Luther.

With these considerations in mind, we have compiled a diverse list of gift ideas that cater to different aspects of a delivery driver’s daily routine, striking the perfect balance between functionality and thoughtfulness. 

Instead of cash equivalents that are less personal, check out this gift guide instead with a range of gift cards and useful tools to make the job of a truck driver easier.

Dive into our selection for Christmas shopping this year and find good gifts to express gratitude to the hardworking delivery drivers this holiday season!

Top Christmas Gift Ideas for Delivery Drivers

In this carefully curated list, we present to you the best gifts and ideas for an Amazon delivery driver or your postal workers during the most wonderful time of the year and the festive season.

This guide showcases the best products to make their lives easier and more enjoyable.

Do not miss out on more holiday gift guides for everyone!

If you decide not to give them a physical gift, make sure to take the time and showcase a thoughtful gesture as a small act of kindness can make a difference.

Here’s the scoop on the best Christmas gift ideas for delivery drivers!

1. MoCuishle Neck Shoulder Back Massager with Heat

MoCuishle Neck Shoulder Back Massager

The MoCuishle Neck Shoulder Back Massager with Heat is a thoughtful Christmas gift for delivery drivers, providing relief from muscle tension and stress accumulated during long shifts. 

With adjustable settings, eight kneading massage nodes, and a comforting heating function, it offers a customizable and rejuvenating experience to help delivery personnel unwind and refresh after hours of delivering packages.

2. SyeiouC Sunglass Holder

christmas present ideas for travel

The SyeiouC Sunglass Holder , with its versatile design and durable construction, makes an excellent and practical Christmas gift for delivery drivers. This thoughtful accessory ensures their eyewear stays organized and easily accessible while on the road, contributing to a tidy car interior.

Its premium leather and strong magnetic closure offer protection and stability, making it a valuable and stylish addition to their daily driving routine.

3. Burt’s Bees Everyday Essentials Set

Burt's Bees Everyday Essentials Set

The Burt’s Bees Everyday Essentials Set is a perfect Christmas gift for delivery drivers, offering on-the-go skincare with trial-sized products like cleanser, hand salve, body lotion, foot cream, and lip balm. 

The travel-friendly sizes and natural ingredients make it a thoughtful and practical solution for drivers facing the challenges of winter shifts, providing a quick and rejuvenating skincare boost during the busy festive season.

4. TOSY LED Flying Disc

TOSY LED Flying Disc

The TOSY LED Flying Disc presents an exciting Christmas gift for delivery drivers seeking post-work relaxation and enjoyment.

Featuring 36 super bright LEDs for a visually stunning nighttime experience, this disc offers customizable smart modes and motion sensors to control brightness and preserve battery life. 

With professional-grade specifications, including a rechargeable design lasting up to a thousand throws, it provides a fun and engaging way for delivery drivers to destress and unwind after their demanding work hours.

5. Cheesecake Factory Gift Card

cheesecake factory gift card

Give the gift of delicious dining with a Cheesecake Factory Gift Card this Christmas. Treat your loved ones to an array of mouthwatering dishes, decadent desserts, and impeccable service at this renowned restaurant.

Perfect for any occasion, this gift card ensures a delightful culinary experience that will leave them craving more.

6. DMLuna Car Registration and Insurance Holder

insurance holder

This DMLuna Car Registration and Insurance Holder , crafted with style and practicality in mind, makes a thoughtful Christmas gift for delivery drivers. With its high-quality Eco-friendly PU leather and multiple pockets for organizing essential documents, it ensures they stay organized and prepared during their deliveries. 

The compact design and clear window add convenience, making it a smart and functional accessory for their daily work routine.

7. Best Gift Air Compression Massager

Best Gift Air Compression Massager

The Best Gift Air Compression Massager offers an excellent solution for muscle fatigue, cramps, and swelling in the foot, leg, calf, and thigh, making it a thoughtful Christmas gift for delivery drivers facing muscle stiffness from extended periods of standing and walking. 

Its use of compression techniques for scientifically proven benefits, along with extension straps for various leg sizes, makes it a versatile and beneficial choice for improving blood circulation and oxygen delivery.

8. Uber Gift Card

uber gift card

An Uber Gift Card proves to be a convenient and thoughtful Christmas gift idea for delivery drivers, offering a seamless experience and the freedom to use Uber services without cash or credit cards. 

With quick email delivery and various available amounts, starting at $25, it caters to different budgets and provides a hassle-free way for recipients to enjoy the convenience of Uber for their transportation needs.

9. LLB Genuine Sheepskin Car Seat Cushion

sheepskin car seat cushion

This LLB Genuine Sheepskin Car Seat Cushion , providing luxurious comfort and all-season usability, makes a fantastic Christmas gift for delivery drivers. 

Its non-slip design and temperature-regulating wool offer comfort during long drives, and its versatility as a decorative cushion suits both car seats and other furniture, ensuring a thoughtful and practical present.

10. Tikduck Flying Orb Ball Toys

Tikduck Flying Orb Ball

The Tikduck Flying Orb Ball Toys is an engaging and interactive gift for delivery drivers, providing a thrilling way to unwind during breaks. 

Its durable construction, USB rechargeability, and versatility for indoor and outdoor play make it a unique and educational present suitable for drivers of all ages seeking excitement and relaxation.

This is a fun way to keep a delivery man engaged during his stops at service stations.

11. Mylivell LED Flashlight Gloves

Mylivell LED Flashlight Gloves

The Mylivell LED Flashlight Gloves serve as a practical and thoughtful Christmas gift idea for delivery drivers, offering versatile light assistance during work in dark conditions.

Equipped with LED lights on the fingertips and made from stretchy material to fit most hand sizes, these gloves are not only useful for drivers but also for various hands-on tasks like car repairs or outdoor activities. 

Their versatility and one-size-fits-most design make them a practical and appreciated present for anyone in need of a convenient light source.

12. VIKTOR JURGEN Neck Massage Pillow

VIKTOR JURGEN Neck Massage Pillow

The VIKTOR JURGEN Neck Massage Pillow is a versatile and efficient Christmas gift, particularly suitable for delivery drivers who endure long hours on the road. 

Featuring an ergonomic design that fits behind the neck, shoulders, and various body contours, its powerful 3D rotating massage nodes deliver deep-kneading Shiatsu massage, complemented by a gentle heating function for added soothing relief. 

This massage pillow is an excellent choice for those seeking to alleviate muscle discomfort and relax tense muscles after extended periods of driving.

13. HANPURE Super Universal Socket Tools

HANPURE Super Universal Socket Tools

The HANPURE Super Universal Socket Tools are a practical and versatile Christmas gift for delivery drivers, designed to efficiently handle fasteners of various sizes and shapes during home improvement, auto repair, and DIY projects. 

Offering ease and convenience, these tools make a valuable addition to any delivery driver’s toolkit, making their tasks easier and more efficient.

14. 50 States, 5,000 Ideas: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to Do

50 States, 5,000 Ideas

This book 50 States, 5,000 Ideas: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to Do is a thoughtful and insightful gift for travel enthusiasts or delivery drivers looking to explore the United States during their downtime.

The book offers inspiration and guidance, covering all 50 states with a user-friendly layout that categorizes information alphabetically, making it easy for readers to find what they’re looking for. 

What sets it apart is its focus on experiences rather than just listing sights, encouraging readers to immerse themselves in local culture, and the stunning photography adds a visual appeal to spark exploration and adventure.

15. Drop Stop Car Seat Gap Filler

seat gap filler

The Drop Stop Car Seat Gap Filler offers complete coverage around the seat belt catch, preventing items from slipping into the gap between the car seats and the center console.

As seen on Shark Tank, this patented seat gap filler lasts a lifetime, staying in place without needing readjustment, and each package includes two Drop Stops for the driver and passenger sides, alongside bonus gifts. 

16. Amooca Car Seat Headrest Hooks

christmas present ideas for travel

These durable Amooca Car Seat Headrest Hooks , made of premium plastic, make an excellent and practical Christmas gift for delivery drivers.

They offer a convenient solution for keeping the car interior organized by securely holding bags, groceries, and other items, preventing spills and maintaining a tidy space. 

Easy to install without tools and universally fitting most vehicles, these hooks offer versatile usage and support heavy weights, providing a helpful and thoughtful gift for drivers during their daily routines.

17. EcoNour 2 in 1 Car Steering Wheel Desk and Food Tray

desk and food tray

The EcoNour 2 in 1 Car Steering Wheel Desk and Food Tray , a versatile and practical car accessory for commercial use, makes an ideal Christmas present for delivery drivers.

This portable desk provides a convenient workspace for eating, writing, or using a laptop while on the move, catering to their on-the-go lifestyle. 

Its sturdy design and dual functionality, coupled with easy storage and effortless mounting, offer a thoughtful and useful gift option for drivers during their daily routines.

18. Boriwat Back Massager with Heat

Boriwat Back Massager

The Boriwat Back Massager with Heat is a versatile and effective solution for neck, back, and leg pain relief, making it an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation after a long day.

Its larger size accommodates the curves of the neck and back, providing a satisfying massage experience with dual heating zones and two heating levels. 

With three adjustable intensities and user-friendly controls, it caters to individual pain and fatigue levels, making it a thoughtful Christmas gift for delivery drivers in need of relaxation and relief from their demanding work.

19. FULLLIGHT TECH Bluetooth Beanie Hat

Bluetooth Beanie Hat

The FULLLIGHT TECH Bluetooth Beanie Hat serves as a practical and enjoyable gift for delivery drivers, offering hands-free music and calls while keeping them warm during winter. 

Made with 100% acrylic material, featuring upgraded Bluetooth connectivity, and providing up to 20 hours of battery life, it combines warmth and entertainment seamlessly, making it a handy and thoughtful gift for drivers on the go.

20. Psukhi Treat Basket

Birthday Gifts for Women Christmas Gifts

The Psukhi Treat Basket is an ideal and thoughtful present for delivery drivers, especially during the holiday season.

Featuring a rose gold stainless steel tumbler made from high-quality materials, the ready-to-gift set is attractively packaged for their personal use, making it a lovely surprise for any female delivery driver on your list.

Plus, you get your money’s worth of gifts.

21. Starbucks Gift Card

merry christmas starbucks gift card

A Starbucks Gift Card is a convenient and thoughtful gift for delivery drivers, providing them with the opportunity to enjoy their favorite beverages and hit their favorite coffee shops while on the go.

Ideal for those who need a caffeine boost during busy workdays, the card’s email delivery or printable option makes it easy to send across the country with a personal touch. 

Offering a wide variety of drink options and other products, this gift card is a practical and last-minute gift solution for surprising someone on a special occasion.

22. TRAVANDO Mens Slim Wallet with Money Clip

TRAVANDO Mens Slim Wallet

The TRAVANDO Mens Slim Wallet with Money Clip is a sophisticated and functional gift option for delivery drivers this Christmas. With 11 card pockets, RFID protection, a stainless steel lining, and an integrated money clip, it offers ample space, security, and style. 

Its modern design and practical features make it an ideal present and the perfect gift for those who value both aesthetics and functionality in their everyday accessories.

23. Hetyre Night Light Bluetooth Speaker

Hetyre Night Light Bluetooth Speaker

The Hetyre Night Light Bluetooth Speaker is a versatile and practical gift choice for delivery drivers this Christmas. Its 5-in-1 functionality, including a Bluetooth speaker enhances the driving experience during late-night shifts. 

The speaker’s 48 LED lights, offering three levels of brightness and multi-color changing modes synced with music, add a pleasant ambiance to the truck’s cabin, making breaks more enjoyable and relaxing for drivers on the go.

24. PONPUR Whiskey Decanter Globe Set

PONPUR Whiskey Decanter Globe Set

The PONPUR Whiskey Decanter Globe Set offers a unique and sophisticated gift option for delivery drivers who appreciate both fine spirits and elegant home décor.

Its exquisite globe design with an antique ship inside makes for an impressive addition to any home or office, complemented by its 8-in-1 features and included whiskey chiller balls, preserving the original taste of the whiskey without dilution. 

This set stands out as a thoughtful and complete gift choice, catering to both the appreciation of quality spirits and the enhancement of home aesthetics.

25. RAK Magnetic Pickup Tool

RAK Magnetic Pickup Tool

The RAK Magnetic Pickup Tool is an indispensable and versatile gift suitable for delivery drivers or DIY enthusiasts seeking efficient retrieval and illumination in tight spaces.

With its strong magnetic grip and flexible 360º neck, it easily reaches into narrow corners and dark areas to retrieve dropped items like nuts and bolts. 

This tool’s convenience, including pre-installed batteries and spare ones, enhances its practicality and usefulness, making it an ideal gift for anyone working with small items in challenging spaces.

26. STAY FINE Top Grain Leather Wallet

STAY FINE Leather Wallet

The STAY FINE Top Grain Leather Wallet combines style, durability, and security, making it an ideal gift for delivery drivers.

Crafted from premium top grain leather that ages beautifully, it features RFID-blocking technology in every card slot to safeguard personal information, a crucial feature for those on the go.

27. The Driving Book

The Driving Book

The Driving Book is a comprehensive and engaging resource perfect for delivery drivers seeking to enhance their driving expertise.

With its wide coverage of essential driving topics, humorous anecdotes, and practical advice on handling diverse road conditions and unexpected situations, it offers valuable insights for both new and experienced drivers. 

This book stands out as a thoughtful Christmas gift, providing practical knowledge and an entertaining read that delivery drivers will appreciate for improving their driving skills.

28. CALBEAU Car Emergency Kit

car emergency kit

The CALBEAU Car Emergency Kit , thoughtfully designed for roadside safety, makes an ideal Christmas gift for delivery drivers.

Packed with essential items like a First Aid Kit, Jumper Cable, Safety Hammer, and more, all in a compact and easily storable, pink-themed bag, it’s a practical and thoughtful present. 

Tailored for safety-conscious women and girls, especially ideal for novice drivers and adventure enthusiasts, this kit serves as a thoughtful gesture towards their safety and preparedness on the road during the busy holiday season when they are working in delivery services.

29. LOTUNY Universal Phone Mount for Car

phone mount

The LOTUNY Universal Phone Mount for Car is a thoughtful Christmas gift for delivery drivers, ensuring hands-free phone use while driving. 

Its versatile mounting options, strong suction, and secure design offer reliable phone placement, making it a practical and safe accessory for their vehicles during the holiday season.

30. CRAFTGEN Golf Decanter Whiskey Set

Golf Decanter Whiskey Set

The CRAFTGEN Golf Decanter Whiskey Set is a stunning and unique gift. Crafted from lead-free borosilicate glass, the golf club-shaped decanter, complete with a real embedded golf ball, adds sophistication and functionality to any space. 

With a 750ml capacity and accompanying golf ball whiskey glasses, it’s a standout present for occasions like Christmas, promising to impress with its premium craftsmanship and eye-catching design.

31. TRAVANDO AirTag Wallet

TRAVANDO AirTag Wallet

The TRAVANDO AirTag Wallet presents a sleek and functional option ideal for delivery drivers, blending style with practicality and security. Its carbon-colored design integrates an AirTag holder for easy tracking, while RFID-blocking technology ensures card security. 

Featuring 11 card slots, a metal money clip, and easy access notches, this wallet offers both organization and convenience, making it a thoughtful Christmas gift for drivers seeking security and innovative features in their everyday accessories.

32. 365FURY Inspirational Travel Mug

Inspirational tumbler Gifts for Women

This 365FURY Inspirational Travel Mug is a thoughtful and functional present tailored for delivery drivers, featuring a 14-ounce stainless steel tumbler and a matching keychain bearing the uplifting message “Sometimes You Forget You’re Awesome.” 

With durable, health-conscious stainless steel construction and double-walled insulation capable of keeping beverages hot for 3 hours and cold for 9 hours, this set suits drivers who enjoy various drinks on the go, including energy drinks.

These travel tumblers have an inspirational message and makes it an exceptional gift choice, offering a reminder of positivity and functionality for drivers’ daily routines.

33. YOOFAN Car Front Seat Organizer 

car seat organizer

This YOOFAN Car Front Seat Organizer is an essential accessory for delivery drivers, providing convenience and efficiency during their work. 

It helps keep items like gadgets, maps, paperwork, bottles of water, and snacks neatly organized and easily accessible, ensuring a clutter-free environment and enhancing their overall driving experience.

34. Macally Cup Holder Tray

cup holder tray

The Macally Cup Holder Tray makes an excellent Christmas gift for delivery drivers, providing a practical and comfortable solution for enjoying meals or organizing items while parked.

Its universal compatibility, secure mounting, and adjustable features offer convenience and enhance their driving experience.

With the assurance of lifetime support and hassle-free returns, this gift ensures a thoughtful and useful addition to their daily routine during the holiday season.

35. FOVAL Car Power Inverter

car power inverter

Consider gifting the FOVAL Car Power Inverter as a Christmas present for delivery drivers. It’s a portable device allowing charging of various electronic gadgets, including laptops, phones, tablets, and more, ensuring convenience during their deliveries. 

This compact inverter, with its multiple protections and versatile charging options, would be a practical and thoughtful gift for their on-the-go needs.

36. Fast USB Car Charger

usb car charger

Consider gifting this versatile and efficient Fast USB Car Charger . This practical and safety-oriented device enables simultaneous charging of multiple devices, ensuring convenience and peace of mind during travels, making it an ideal Christmas gift for delivery drivers.

37. BIECHIC Delivery Driver Treat Sign

delivery sign

This BIECHIC Delivery Driver Sign is durable and beautifully designed and made of high-quality materials.  

Equipped with multicolor LED lights and easy control functions, this USB-powered sign ensures easy installation and instant car recognition during deliveries, making it an ideal Christmas gift for a delivery driver.

You can also get them a delivery driver snack sign if they love having small snacks on the road.

38. W WHISKOFF Whiskey Glass Gift Set

W WHISKOFF Whiskey Glass Gift Set

The W WHISKOFF Whiskey Glass Gift Set is a sophisticated gift for whiskey lovers, featuring 10-ounce glasses and natural granite chilling stones. 

Packaged in an elegant wooden box, this set is perfect for special occasions, offering an elevated whiskey tasting experience with its quality glassware and chilling stones.

39. WHIDOBE Funny Retirement Gift Mug

WHIDOBE Funny Retirement Gift Mug

The WHIDOBE Funny Retirement Gift Mug is a humorous and practical gift choice for delivery drivers, showcasing vibrant print quality with a playful “Retired Not My Problem Anymore” statement and retired calendar image. 

This mug serves as a light-hearted and functional present, ideal for Christmas or other occasions, and perfect for drivers who appreciate a good laugh. It will also make a great addition to their coffee mug collection.

40. Amazon.com Gift Card in a Santa Letter Gift Box

Amazon.com Gift Card in a Santa Letter Gift Box

This Amazon.com Gift Card in a Santa Letter Gift Box is a small gesture but is a reliable and versatile holiday gift for delivery drivers, offering easy use, no fees, and redemption toward millions of items on Amazon.com.

The presentation with the Santa Letter Gift Box adds a delightful touch, making it feel more personal and visually appealing. 

41. RUBOT Car Vacuum 

car vacuum

Consider gifting the RUBOT Car Vacuum to delivery drivers this Christmas to save them a bit of time trying to find a car vacuum area. This powerful vacuum offers efficient cleaning, ideal for tidying up the build-up of junk that might have accumulated in their vehicles over the past year. 

With its fast charging, versatile design, and triple filter system, it’s a practical and thoughtful gift for keeping their vehicles clean while they’re on the road.

42. HOTOR Car Trash Can

car trash can

Consider gifting the HOTOR Car Trash Can , an adjustable, collapsible, and leakproof container that helps drivers keep their cars clean and organized with unlimited access. 

It’s a thoughtful present for delivery drivers, providing them with a practical solution to manage junk and spills accumulated during their work over the past year.

43. SINGARO Car Cup Coasters

cup coasters

This set of high-quality SINGARO Car Cup Coasters are designed to keep cup holders tidy. These coasters not only offer durability and easy cleaning but also add a touch of personalization with their various colors and styles.

The cup coasters help to prevent spills from liquids like cans of soda.

44. Relentless Drive Interior Car Duster

car duster

A compact and efficient Interior Car Duster , this 10″ duster ensures a clean dashboard, saving time and eliminating the need for multiple cleaning supplies. 

Its electrostatic microfiber chenille promises a thorough clean for both the car’s interior and exterior, making it a thoughtful Christmas gift for a delivery driver who values a tidy vehicle.

45. AOTTO Portable Oven

portable oven

This AOTTO Portable Oven , a versatile solution for on-the-go individuals, could make a perfect Christmas gift for delivery drivers.

This practical oven reheats, cooks, and keeps meals warm without constant monitoring, ensuring they enjoy hot and tasty food while on the road. This oven is an easy way to reheat and cook food without having to spend extra money.

46. HotHands Hand Warmer Value Pack

hand warmers

HotHands Hand Warmer Value Pack is a natural and long-lasting heat solution. These odorless, disposable, and TSA approved hand warmers are single-use items and are a great idea for delivery drivers during the winter season.

To activate the hand warmer, simply remove it from the outer package and shake it. Within 15-30 minutes, it will start to generate heat. 

This little gift is available in various styles for your hands, feet, and body – providing you with convenient warmth whenever you need it!

47. Rightcar Solutions Snow Brush

snow brush

The Rightcar Solutions Snow Brush features soft nylon bristles for gentle car surface cleaning, combined with a 3-in-1 ice scraper designed to break up ice, clear surfaces, and aid in windshield wiper cleaning for improved visibility. 

Its compact design and ergonomic handle offer a firm grip without occupying excessive trunk space, and it includes a complimentary bag for convenient storage, making it a practical and thoughtful Christmas gift for any driver.

48. Luckybay Car Seat Side Organizer

car seat organizer

Consider gifting the Luckybay Car Seat Side Organizer to a delivery driver this Christmas. 

With its durable, stretchable design and multiple pockets for convenient storage of essentials like keys, phones, snacks, and more, this organizer ensures a tidy and organized car interior, making it a practical and thoughtful gift for someone who spends a lot of time on the road.

49. Amazon.com Gift Card in Flower Pot Reveal

Amazon.com Gift Card in Flower Pot Reveal

The Amazon.com Gift Card in Flower Pot Reveal is a fantastic choice for delivery drivers, offering the freedom to choose from millions of Amazon items. The charming flower pot packaging adds a unique touch. 

50. Gift A Snack Variety Pack

snack basket

Consider this basket of goodies as a great gift to use as a Christmas present for delivery drivers with the best snacks. 

Packed with popular American snacks ideas like granola bars, protein bars, and candies, the beautifully branded mailer gift box, accompanied by a heartwarming greeting card, provides a delightful assortment of treats perfect for spreading joy to delivery drivers. 

Whether they are a Doordash driver or an Amazon delivery guy, this basket of snacks is a special treat.

For more snack ideas, you can also get the delivery workers trail mix if they prefer healthy options or if they have a sweet tooth, they may love candy bars.

51. RAK 2-in-1 Multi-Tool Pen Set

pen set

The RAK 2-in-1 Multi-Tool Pen Set with its durable aluminum body, refillable ink, and integrated bottle opener serves as an excellent Christmas present for delivery drivers, offering a versatile tool for on-the-go tasks. 

This multifunctional pen is perfect for various projects, providing convenience and functionality to handle different tasks while on deliveries.

52. Thank You Stay Safe, Postal Workers, Delivery Drivers, Yard Sign

thank you sign

Express your gratitude and show appreciation for postal workers and delivery drivers with the Thank You Stay Safe yard sign. 

This printable sign is the perfect gift to let these essential workers know they are valued. With its bright and bold colors, long-lasting outdoor weatherproof inks, this beautiful sign will draw attention while blending seamlessly into any yard. 

You can also find a digital download and make your own free printable sign with regular printer paper for appreciation.

Delivery Driver Appreciation Gift Guide

Delivery drivers are Federal employees that constantly put in the hard work to deliver a lot of packages to your front porch or front door, sometimes to working overtime to ensure all packages are delivered. Just like many other professions, being a delivery driver is often overlooked with little appreciation. 

Whether you decide to buy puzzle books or create a delivery driver snack basket with their favorite snacks and reusable water bottles, there are so many ways to make a delivery driver feel appreciated this holiday season and these gifts only scratch the surface of the most thoughtful gifts you can buy for them.

Remember, these Christmas gift ideas can apply to different delivery drivers including a Fedex driver or delivery folks who drop off fast food. They can go a long way this Christmas season even if it’s free printables saying that you appreciate them.

Find the best Christmas gift ideas for delivery drivers.

Get the scoop on more fun gift guides below:

  • 60 Best Christmas Gift Ideas For Grandpa (2023)
  • 60+ Best Christmas Gift Ideas For Nursing Staff (2023)
  • 100 Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Elderly Parents (2023)

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The 12 Best Mother's Day Gifts at Amazon That Will Arrive in Time for Sunday — Starting at $6

Score luggage, comfy shoes, travel-friendly skincare sets, and more.

christmas present ideas for travel

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and if you put off your shopping until the last minute, don’t worry, you don’t have to resort to snagging an overpriced flower bouquet and calling it a day quite yet. Amazon continues to be a one-stop shop for everything on your to-buy list, and seeing as the site is stocked with unbeatable deals on travel gear , it’s also your best bet for finding meaningful gifts for your favorite traveler before time runs out.

Regardless of the destination your mom (or mother figure) prefers to visit while traveling, we’ve rounded up the 12 best Mother's Day gift markdowns to shop right now that will arrive just in time for the celebration, and are perfect to pack from the beach to the city streets. Best of all: everything is priced under $120, so shoppers of all budgets can snag a favorite child-level gift — starting at just $6.

Samsonite Omni 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage

If your mom is a frequent traveler, the best thing you could gift her for Mother’s Day is a brand-new suitcase to take with her on her next adventure. This shopper-loved checked bag from Samsonite is the perfect choice while it’s on sale for an impressive 45 percent off, and it’s built to withstand the wear and tear of travel thanks to a durable, scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell. The bag expands up to an additional 2 inches to provide more space for overpackers, and your mom can trust that her belongings are safe once they’ve been packed away since a TSA-approved lock is built directly into the side of this reliable case. 

Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag

Give your mother the gift of organization this year with the Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag. It’s so compact that it will easily fit into her carry-on while providing convenient access to liquids while heading through TSA — and it’s even on sale for just $23 right now. This bag eliminates the clutter of products covering the bathroom counter at the hotel since it hangs from the back of any door with the help of a simple hook, and it boasts several pockets and pouches within each section of the bag to keep bottles and other products upright while avoiding spillage. It’s great for road trips, long flights, and even camping excursions.

Homesick Candle

Bring your mom’s favorite travel destination straight to her home with the help of Homesick Candles, a unique brand that offers 52 candle scents (one for each state). The candles boast a burn time of up to 80 hours, and from zesty orange to a refreshing sea breeze, they effortlessly transport you to your fondest memories without splurging on a plane ticket. And if you live far away from your parents, gift your mom a candle from your current destination so she can think of you whenever she lights it. Even if she’s not traveling any time soon, her at-home oasis is about to get a major upgrade.

Apple AirTag

Practical tech is never a bad gift idea, so we recommend putting the finishing touch on your present with an Apple AirTag. They're currently on sale at Amazon, making now the best time to snag one for your mom to tuck into her suitcase. The compact device simply connects to any iPhone so she can track her checked bag from the moment it leaves her eyeline, doing away with the threat of lost luggage for good. More than 152,000 travelers swear by this tracker for providing peace of mind while on the go, which is an invaluable gift to give.

Vlando Travel Jewelry Box

Jewelry is one of the most common Mother’s Day offerings, so why not pair a nice necklace with this travel organizer to keep everything contained during your mom’s next trip? The jewelry box has four compartments that are the perfect size to hold small earrings, while several ring pillows keep fragile items firmly in place. And if your mom is tired of her necklaces tangling while she’s on the go, three hooks alongside an elasticized pocket allow for simple storage that keeps chains and charms neatly stowed away.

Frank Mully Women’s Knit Ballet Flats

Ballet flats are the hottest shoes of the season, and they are also incredibly comfortable and packable for travel. These knitted flats from Frank Mully are a top-notch gift for your stylish parent as they’re easily paired with nearly anything she might have tucked inside her suitcase, effectively cutting down on her footwear needs. Plus, they’re designed with non-slip rubber soles alongside lightly cushioned insoles for a supportive fit no matter what’s on the agenda. Certain colors are on sale for as little as $39 at Amazon right now, so if you’re planning to snag several gifts for your mom this year, this is one budget-friendly option.

Hoxis Oversize Vegan Leather Tote Bag

Just because a carry-on bag should be sensible doesn’t mean it needs to be boring, and this stunning vegan leather tote will quickly become your mom’s new go-to for vacations of any length. The spacious design can be taken from the airplane to a day of shopping (and even to the poolside) with ease, and it’s available in 10 stunning neutral and bright shades to match your mother’s personality and taste. A magnetic closure at the top of the bag promises to keep her belongings safe and protected, and the lightweight design is easy to carry and will instantly elevate any outfit it’s paired with.

Cosrx All About Snail Travel Skincare Set

If your mom has a hard time investing in her skincare routine but still loves the finer things in life, this four-piece set from Cosrx will likely be a welcome addition to her toiletry bag during upcoming travels — and right now, it’s on sale for just $21. This shopper-loved Korean skincare set features a cleanser, serum, peptide cream, and hydrating lotion so your mother can enjoy a spa-like experience from the comfort of her hotel room. The set boasts a number of benefits, from firming the skin to adding radiance and hydration, and at just over $5 apiece, this is a great add-on gift.

Veken 6-piece Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are essential for making the most of limited luggage space, and if your parent is an overpacker, this set of six bags from Veken is guaranteed to transform her travels in the coming year. Complete with a shoe bag, laundry pouch, and four other packing cubes in varying sizes, this set is a dream for optimizing space within a carry-on, and right now, it’s on sale at Amazon for a mere $20. We’re certain your mom will love the opportunity to take her organization to the next level.

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Nobody wants to splurge on an overpriced water bottle at the airport, so the Owala FreeSip Insulated water bottle is the perfect thing to gift ahead of your mom’s next vacation. This travel-friendly best-seller is designed with a unique locking mechanism to prevent spillage (even when the bottle is laid down in a bag,) while a hidden straw ensures that, even during turbulence, she can stay hydrated. And with 22 fun colors to choose from, there’s sure to be one shade available that your mom will love.

Grace & Stella Moisturizing Eye Masks

Air travel can be incredibly dehydrating to the skin, so your mom will be happy to have a pack of these moisturizing eye masks tucked into her carry-on to keep her looking and feeling fresh from takeoff to landing. A set of six pairs is currently on sale for $10 and works to alleviate dark under eyes, puffiness, and dull skin, leaving her skin looking even better at the end of her flight than at the beginning. With ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and horse chestnut in each set, these patches are guaranteed to become a mainstay in her carry-on — and even her at-home beauty routine.

Happyluze Wayfarer Travel Scarf Wrap

From the beach to the plane and even an al fresco dinner, this multi-purpose scarf wrap will play so many roles in your mother’s wardrobe, making it a thoughtful and functional gift. The material is made with UPF 50+ to protect sensitive skin from harsh sun rays, and it can even work as a blanket on chilly flights if a simple cardigan isn’t warm enough. If your mom can’t ever seem to get warm, this shawl (or scarf or poncho), is a four-in-one solution that will be cherished for years to come.

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    Mark & Graham Essential Tech Folio. $139 at Mark and Graham. Keep devices, chargers, and wires neatly stowed and organized inside this leather zip-around tech folio. It's available in two sizes ...

  12. 55 Best Gifts for Travelers in 2024

    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 ... 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. Reply. Agnes. November 12, 2019 at 11:47 ...

  13. 53 Gifts For Travel Lovers That They'll Actually Want in 2024

    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.

  14. The 50 Best Gifts for Women of 2024

    Holiday Gift Ideas for Every Type of Winter Vacation The 52 Best Travel-related Gifts Under $10 The 11 Best White Elephant Gifts Under $25 at Amazon That'll Impress Any Traveler

  15. Travel gifts: 28 of our UK editors' favourite gift ideas for

    Gucci Traveller Luggage Stickers. 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. £65 at Gucci.

  16. The 64 Best Gifts for Outdoorsmen of 2024

    Amazon. $32 at Amazon $31 at Target $32 at Walmart. A hammock is a fantastic gift for those looking to relax in some of Mother Nature's most beautiful settings. The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping ...

  17. The 40 Best Travel Gifts in 2024

    Vuori Austin Hoodie. $120 at Vuori. Traveling and a good hoodie go hand-in-hand (or, arm-in-sleeve). Away from home, people want familiar comfort in their clothing and items that pack easily ...

  18. 51 Best gifts for travellers 2024: Luggage to cameras

    Best gift for the frequent flyer: Abercrombie hoodie. Abercrombie hoodie. £65 £49.99. Abercrombie. New year, new loungewear. Ahead of 2024, it's time to bid adieu to the bobble-ridden, tea ...

  19. The Christmas travel gift guide: 25 brilliant presents for globe

    Perfume travel set View image in fullscreen Five 5ml scents and a 120g scented candle by Laboratory Perfumes, a carbon-neutral British brand that uses mostly essential and fragrant oils. £65 ...

  20. 45 Travel Essentials for 2024, According to Experts

    Vacation's 3-pack of TSA-approved sunscreen lotions are infused with notes of coconut, banana and pool water but they don't feel greasy or leave a white cast. Vacation Classic Lotion SPF 30 (3 ...

  21. What to Buy at Christmas Markets for Meaningful Memories and Unique Gifts

    Hand-carved wooden Christmas figurines. If you can find a small wooden Christmas pyramid, that would be a unique thing to bring home for the sake of memories. Those things are part of almost every ...

  22. 35 Best Gifts for 11-Year-Olds 2024, Tested & Reviewed by Experts

    Our top picks for the best gifts for 11-year-olds in 2023: Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Card Game, $10 on amazon.com. Kanoodle Pyramid, $18 on amazon.com. Logrotate Moon Lamp, $20 on amazon.com ...

  23. 50+ Best Christmas Gift Ideas For Delivery Drivers (2024)

    This is a fun way to keep a delivery man engaged during his stops at service stations. 11. Mylivell LED Flashlight Gloves. The Mylivell LED Flashlight Gloves serve as a practical and thoughtful Christmas gift idea for delivery drivers, offering versatile light assistance during work in dark conditions.

  24. Mamihlap Dad and Mom Est 2024 Travel Mug 30oz Tumbler.New Parents

    Mamihlap Dad and Mom Est 2024 Travel Mug 30oz Tumbler.New Parents Pregnancy Gifts.Fathers Mothers Day Birthday Christmas Gifts Ideas for New Mom Dad.Parents to Be Baby Shower Gifts(Black&Rose Gold) Brand: Mamihlap. $17.97 $ 17. 97. Get Fast, Free Shipping with Amazon Prime.

  25. 12 Mother's Day Gifts for Travelers at Amazon

    Samsonite Omni 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage. Amazon. Buy on Amazon $210 $117. If your mom is a frequent traveler, the best thing you could gift her for Mother's Day is a brand-new suitcase to ...