fantastic travel gift balance

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

By Madison Flager and Paris Wilson

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

Matt Ortile

Ryan M. Moser

Olivia Morelli

Hannah Towey

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.)

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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: 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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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

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.

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

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. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Fantastic Travel Gifts

50 Best Gifts for Travelers: Unique Ideas for Every Budget

This page contains affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.

This list of the best gifts for travelers will help you find the ideal travel presents for the globetrotters in your life.

As nomads for the past 12 years, we know what travelers really need. These travel gift ideas include practical items that your loved one will actually use on the road.

Many of them help travelers pack lighter or even travel carry-on only, like we do. 

Whether you are looking for inexpensive, small travel gifts or an extravagant splurge, you’ll find ideas for all budgets.

Click on the links below to skip ahead to your gift budget or scroll down to read the whole article.

Travel Books

Digital gifts for travelers.

Waterproof Phone Pouch

We have this waterproof phone pouch to keep our phone and wallet safe and dry when we are snorkelling, kayaking, and river hiking. It’s also handy if you don’t want to leave your valuables on the beach when you head into the ocean for a dip. 

It comes with a lanyard to wear it around your neck. 

An inexpensive, useful and small travel gift. 

Buy on Amazon

Llama Makeup Bag

These small and inexpensive makeup bags come in a range of cute designs including llamas and sloths. Perfect for storing toiletries and other small items on the road or at home.

Hiking Wool

We discovered hiking wool in New Zealand and have been amazed by how successfully it prevents blisters when hiking, running, or just when you’re on your feet a lot.

It’s made from super soft New Zealand merino wool and is easy to use—just tear off a chunk and place it under your sock in any area where you begin to feel rubbing.

We haven’t had a blister since using it, even on our five-day Queen Charlotte Track hike. It makes a lightweight gift for active people or anyone struggling with sore feet. 

Burt’s Bees Skincare Kit

This gift set features five travel-sized skincare products made from natural ingredients.

This was one of the most useful travel gifts we received before heading off on the road, but it’s just as enjoyable at home.

Travel-Size Toiletry Bottles

Every carry-on traveler needs toiletry bottles under 100ml/3oz that meet with airline regulations and can be taken on planes. They allow you to pack your favorite product without having to carry a large container. These bottles are leak-proof and have wide openings.

Buy on Amazon  

Foldable Water Bottle

Normal water bottles take up too much space when they’re empty, so foldable water bottles are a better option. We love the Vapur Element Bottle as it’s lightweight, can be flattened or rolled when empty, has a flip top cap, and can be clipped to a bag.

Portable Charger

Portable battery chargers are incredibly useful travel gifts for anyone who travels with a phone.

They fit in your pocket and take the stress out of long travel days as you don’t end up without access to Google Maps when trying to find your hotel.

This one is tiny and comes in five colors.

Solid Lotion

There are only so many toiletry bottles you can fit in your airline-compliant ziplock bag, so if your loved one is a beauty product junky, the answer is solid toiletries.

You can take as many of these on the plane as you like, and they usually save space and weight and last longer than liquid versions. This Honey House Naturals Bee Bar gets excellent reviews and leaves your skin silky smooth.

Travel Coffee Mug

A travel coffee mug is a must for every traveler who is concerned about the millions of disposable coffee cups that end up in landfill every day.

They are also really useful on road trips, especially in remote areas where there might not be places to stop for a drink (Simon used one often in Iceland and Namibia). 

The Contigo Autoseal West Loop mug is leak and spill proof (you can shove it in your bag) and keeps drinks hot for 5 hours. It comes in many colors and sizes. 

Beeswax Wraps

My mum gave me these beeswax wraps and I’ve been surprised how useful they are (and have since bought more).

We often self-cater while traveling and these have been fantastic for wrapping up leftover food, covering bowls, and packing sandwiches for day trips.

They are a sustainable alternative to plastic wrap and make simple but beautiful presents for travelers or anyone who cares about reducing plastic waste. 

Shampoo Bars

Another solid toiletry product to get around airline restrictions and avoid leaks. Shampoo bars work as shampoo and soap, last ages, and are vegan and eco-friendly (no plastic bottles or harmful chemicals). 

They make fantastic small and inexpensive gifts for people who travel.

I’ve used Lush shampoo bars for years and they are available in Lush shops around the world.

I’ve also tried Ethique solid shampoo bars which are just as good and smell less intense. Their hair sampler with three small shampoos and two conditioners is a perfect travel gift.

Travel Towel

A normal towel is bulky and heavy, so a travel towel is a must for budget travelers staying in accommodation where towels aren’t provided.

Although that’s not us these days, we use ours for the beach, picnics, and sweaty yoga classes. They are light, compact, and quick-drying.

This  Youphoria travel towel  on Amazon comes in a range of sizes and colors and has excellent reviews. 

Alternatively, the  Eccosophy travel beach towel  is more expensive and a little heavier than the large Youphoria, but it comes in many beautiful patterns. 

Solid Perfume

Solid perfumes are much more practical than liquid fragrances for travelers and make excellent small travel gifts. These scents come in tiny tins that fit easily in your purse. 

You can also buy a  solid men’s cologne  in a travel-friendly tin. 

Packable Tote Bag

Packable tote bags make good gifts for travelers as they are tiny and always comes in handy for shopping and beach trips. ChicoBag has a range of beautiful designs and their bags hold up to 40 pounds (18kg) of shopping.

Electronics Organizer Bag

A great present for anyone, like us, who travels with too many electronics. An electronics organizer bag keeps our cables, chargers, hard drives, and accessories organized, accessible, and protected.

Moleskine Pocket Notebook

We usually avoid traveling with heavy paper, but sometimes you want a real notebook rather than using your phone (like I did on safari in Africa or when hiking the Dales Way).

Classic Moleskine notebooks are the ones we return to again and again for their high quality. The hard covers make it easy to write without a table.

You can choose from many colors and limited edition designs. I have a cherry blossom themed one Simon bought me in Japan. 

USB Travel Plug Adapter

A travel plug adapter is essential for every traveler to allow them to use different plugs around the world. A USB version is best—this one from Epicka has four USB ports allowing you to charge multiple devices at once. 

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Peak Design Phone Case

Peak Design has made the perfect phone case (available for iPhone, Samsung, and Pixel). The Everyday Case is slim, stylish, and protective. 

Best of all, its built-in connection system means you can instantly attach it to other Peak Design items like the stand wallet (see below) and car and bike mounts. 

Buy at Peak Design

Allbirds Merino Beanie

A wool beanie is essential for cold weather travel and this unisex one by Allbirds was perfect on our US road trip in February. 

It’s made from superfine merino wool so it keeps you warm without itching and feels so soft and cosy. 

Add a matching Allbirds scarf for an even better winter travel gift.

Merino wool Buffs are lightweight, tiny, and multi-purpose and make ideal gifts for travel lovers. They are super soft and work as a scarf, hat, headband, bandana, or to protect your face from dust in the desert.

I regretted not bringing one to Iceland where strong winds make other scarves impractical.

Buy on Amazon  or on  REI

Clever Travel Companion Tank Top

A Clever Travel Companion tank top is a great alternative to money belts for storing passports, cards and cash.

It has two zipped pockets for storing valuables (one under each arm), and I find it more comfortable than a money belt. The pockets aren’t entirely hidden so it’s best to wear it under another shirt.

They also make t-shirts, leggings, and underwear with hidden pockets. A really handy gift for any travel lover.

Buy at Clever Travel Companion

Travel Scarf with Hidden Pocket

This infinity travel scarf with hidden pocket is another excellent way of concealing your valuables or being able to go out without a purse. It’s made from a soft fabric, comes in a range of colors, and the pocket is big enough for an iPhone and passport.

Bluffworks also make a non-infinity scarf with two large hidden pockets. The  Threshold Utility Scarf  is super soft and large enough to double as a blanket.

Bluffworks Threshold T-shirt

The Bluffworks Threshold t-shirt is our favourite shirt. It feels as soft as cotton but has the performance of a technical shirt—moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant.

It also has impressive odour-resistance and can be worn for multiple days without smelling. Even after two years of constant wear, our t-shirts still look great and have maintained their shape and color.

The Threshold t-shirt is available for men and women in a range of colors in crew, v-neck and long sleeve styles.

Buy at Bluffworks

Even the lightest yoga mat weighs 1kg, so Yoga Paws, which are little yoga mats for your hands and feet, are the perfect solution for travel. I’ve practiced yoga in over a dozen countries with them.

They prevent slippage when doing yoga on any surface and provide support for the wrists. They are so small and light that it’s easy to take them anywhere. I recommend the lighter SkinThin version. 

AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

Perfect for coffee lovers, the AeroPress is the best travel coffee maker and makes incredibly smooth and flavorful coffee. It’s compact, lightweight, durable, and easy to use and clean.

This new travel version is even more compact than the original, comes with its own mug, and is great for camping. A unique travel gift.

Toiletry Bag

The best toiletry bags are light yet durable, have a few pockets for organization, and a hanger for when there’s nowhere to put it. The Sea to Summit TravellingLight Hanging Toiletry Bag meets all these criteria, and we manage to fit a surprising amount in the small sized bag.

Buy on Amazon   or on  REI

Packing Cubes

Every experienced traveler we know adores  packing cubes . They are the secret to traveling carry-on only as they allow you to fit more clothes into your luggage by squeezing them into a smaller package. They also keep things organized and easy to find in your bag.

I love the ultralight  Eagle Creek Specter compression packing cubes .

Simon uses  Peak Design packing cubes , which are a little heavier, but he appreciates the stylish design and separate compartments for clean and dirty clothes.

Highly recommended for anyone who travels!

Buy on Amazon  or at  Peak Design

Peak Design Mobile Stand Wallet

Simon’s favorite purchase of the year was this superb wallet from Peak Design. It’s slim and elegant and makes it easy to access your cards. 

Even better, it features a built-in stand that connects easily via a strong magnet to the Peak Design phone case. We often use this for selfies. 

It’s also handy for keeping your phone and wallet connected so you only have one thing to worry about. 

Matador Packable Daypack

Packable daypacks  are useful if you want to travel with just one bag but don’t want to use your main luggage when you are out exploring.

We’ve tried a variety of backpacks and our top pick is the Matador Freefly16. 

It’s lightweight yet extremely durable, weatherproof, and more comfortable than most packable bags.

Buy at Matador

Compact Binoculars

Simon bought me these Olympus 8 x 21 RCII binoculars for my birthday so we could get a closer look at wildlife on our travels. 

They are amazingly small and light so you can throw them in your bag or pocket. We’ve admired sea lions, turtles, birds and more.

RipSkirt Hawaii Travel Skirt

I love this comfortable wrap skirt by Ripskirt Hawaii. It comes in lots of beautiful patterns and is lightweight and very quick-drying. 

It’s ideal for throwing on after a swim as the water-resistant fabric means you don’t get wet bum marks—it’s remarkable how well it works!

Porlex Mini Coffee Grinder

Simon adores this wonderful little coffee grinder. Pre-ground coffee just doesn’t taste the same anymore.

This manual stainless steel grinder is surprisingly compact (our friend even takes it hiking), high-quality (it’s made in Japan), and easy to use and clean.

It’s the ideal gift for any coffee lover for camping, road trips, travel, or even just to use at home.

Bluffworks Travel Dress Shirt

Typically dress shirts wrinkle easily, but Bluffworks has designed the perfect travel shirt. Simon has the Meridian shirt which is so much more practical for travel and can be dressed up or down.

It’s wrinkle-free, soft, comfortable, and anti-microbial so you can wear it for multiple days without it smelling.

Allbirds Wool Runners

I’m obsessed with my Allbirds Wool Runners. They are the softest, cosiest shoes I’ve ever worn and are light enough to pack easily. 

They feel as comfy as slippers as they are made from superfine merino wool that’s ultra soft, temperature-regulating, and moisture-wicking.

All the materials used are eco-friendly and sustainable. 

I also love the waterproof  Allbirds Mizzles , which are better for rainy weather and hiking, and the  Allbirds Tree Dashers  for running. 

Simon has the  Allbirds Tree Runners , a summer version made from eucalyptus, which he wears all year.  

Allbirds shoes are available for men and women in a range of colors. Free shipping and returns are available in many countries including the US, UK, and Canada.

They have a brilliant return policy where you can return them within 30 days (or until January 22nd for gifts) if you don’t like them, even if you’ve worn them outside! This makes for a risk-free gift. My  Allbirds review  has more details.

Buy on the Allbirds website

Allbirds Tree Breezer Flats

The Allbirds Tree Breezers are my new favourite flats.

My shoe collection is now dominated by Allbirds, so it’s no surprise that their flats are just as comfy as their other shoes. They feel amazing on my feet!

Breezers are made of a knit fabric from eucalyptus trees with a cosy wool insole, come in lots of colors, and are machine washable. As with all Allbirds, they are eco-friendly and have a 30-day free trial.

Buy at Allbirds

Marmot Precip Eco Rain Jacket

The Marmot Precip Eco Rain Jacket is the best compact, lightweight waterproof we’ve found.

These Marmot jackets pack down into their own pockets so they are easy to throw into your backpack for a hike, but they come with more features than most packable rain jackets.

They have hoods, pit zips for breathability, and a good degree of waterproofing. They also look fairly stylish and come in lots of fun colors (as well as neutrals).

Bluffworks Shirt Jacket

Simon’s latest addition to his wardrobe (which is mostly made up of Bluffworks gear!) is the Gramercy Shirt Jacket. 

It’s perfect for layering and manages to be both stylish and cosy with a wool-like exterior and fleece lining. 

And as it’s Bluffworks, it’s wrinkle-free and features six pockets. 

It’s a versatile top that Simon has worn on hikes, bike rides and out to dinner. He’s even worn it on a snowy walk! I kind of want one myself.

Kindle Paperwhite Signature

An e-reader is indispensable for traveling bookworms as you can travel with thousands of books on a device smaller than one paperback.

I couldn’t live without my Kindle Paperwhite and love that it’s waterproof for reading in the pool and bath! 

Last Christmas I treated myself to the new Signature edition and the faster page turn speed and improved screen with adjustable light make it well worth it.

These are brilliant gifts for people who like to travel or any book lover. 

Tieks Ballet Flats

These ballet flats are comfortable, durable, pack up small, and come in many gorgeous designs (I love my  Silver Lake Vegan Tieks ).

They are pricey so are ideal for gifts—treat someone you love! Tieks has a free exchange policy if they don’t fit. Read my honest  Tieks review  for more information. 

Buy at Tieks

Away Everywhere Bag

I love my Away Everywhere Bag. It’s a personal item that fits under an airplane seat but is ultra roomy with lots of pockets including one for a laptop.

Best of all, it slides over suitcase handles so you don’t need to carry it. It works perfectly with the Away Bigger Carry-On—the combination is the maximum you can get away with taking on a plane.

It’s also ideal as a small overnight bag—I’ve used it for a few weekend side trips.  

I have the nylon bag in Asphalt (grey), but there are a variety of colors. 

Buy on the Away website

Away Carry-On Suitcase

I originally thought Away luggage was a social media fad (their suitcases are all over Instagram), but after doing a lot of research, it was the best carry-on-sized suitcase I found. 

I have the Bigger Carry-On which is the maximum size you can take on a plane (for stricter airlines you might want the smaller Carry-On but I’ve been fine on 10 airlines so far). I can fit a huge amount in with the two-sided design and compression pad. 

The four spinner wheels make it so easy to push alongside you. Other features are a laundry bag and optional built-in phone charger. 

It looks stylish and comes in an array of colors—I have the limited edition Plum and Simon has Coast (light blue). 

Away luggage makes an ideal travel gift because Away offers an exceptional returns policy—you can try any of their items for up to 100 days and if you don’t like it, return it for a refund.

There’s also a lifetime guarantee for defects and free delivery to many countries including the US and UK.

AirPods Pro

These wireless headphones are brilliant—it’s liberating being free of the tangle of wires.

I love them for running and yoga videos, they are super comfortable (I forget I’m wearing them), and the battery lasts for ages. I can even steal Simon’s phone to wander off and take photos while he continues to listen to podcasts.

The Pro version is definitely worth it for the impressive noise cancellation—perfect for plane trips.

Bluffworks Travel Blazer

Simon upgraded his look a few years ago with the Bluffworks Gramercy Travel Blazer. It’s made from a soft lightweight fabric that’s wrinkle-free, so you can pack it inside your luggage without messing it up.

It’s also machine washable, quick-drying, and has tons of pockets that are perfect for carrying your valuables (and especially useful on travel days).

It looks fantastic and can be worn with everything—it was ideal for spring in Italy and Paris. 

Buy on the  Bluffworks website .

Packable Puffer Jacket

Packable puffer jackets are the best way to keep warm and still pack light. They pack down small so don’t take up much space in your luggage.

They are essential for us as we regularly travel between hot and cold climates and a bulky jacket is impractical. 

I love the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody made from synthetic down with a durable water repellent finish so it even works in light rain.  

Buy on Patagonia for men  and  women

Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard

Ok, so this isn’t a small travel gift or packable without a car, but it is a fun one! When the events of the last few years meant we spent longer than planned in New Zealand, we picked up an inflatable stand up paddleboard. 

It was a fantastic way to experience the sea, lakes, and rivers of this outdoorsy country. I’m now hooked!

It makes a wonderful gift for anyone who loves the water as it’s easy to learn. Unlike regular paddleboards, the inflatable kind packs down into a large bag and is easy to transport in the trunk of a car (perfect for road trips).

We were surprised by how firm the board is once inflated—you’d never know it was full of air. It comes with everything you need including a pump, repair kit, paddle, and leash. The only additional item needed by maritime law in many places is a life jacket.

Buy on  Amazon   or at  REI

Travel books are inspiring for both experienced and armchair travelers.

For more gift ideas for travelers, see these posts about my favorite books: 

• 20 Best Coffee Table Travel Books to Inspire Wanderlust
• 10 Travel Memoirs to Inspire Your Next Trip

I’ve also written about the best novels and non-fiction books to read before (or after) a visit to the following destinations:

• South Africa

The best gifts for travelers won’t take up any space in their luggage. Buy them a gift card for one of these:

• Find What Feels Good Yoga with Adriene – My absolute favorite online yoga classes which have enabled me to practice anywhere in the world.  You could gift a month or year’s membership.
• REI – The best travel store in the US with everything you need for a backpacking trip or outdoor adventure.
• Airbnb – Rooms and apartments around the world. We use it all the time.
• Netflix – Stream TV and films.
• Backblaze – Unlimited cloud backup to keep data secure.

Do you have any other gift ideas for travelers? Leave a comment and let us know. 

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17 Comments

Great list! How about a travel translator like Travis or Pocketalk? That could be great for people that like to travel :)

Reply ↓

I love that you included digital gifts—that is something most people never think of!

Yes and they are ideal for those of us trying to reduce our clutter or pack light (we’re impossible to buy for!)!

I’ve been looking for a complete ‘gifts for traveller’s’ post and your post is very detailed, I’m loving it! I always have my travel scarf with hidden pockets on my bag.

I’m glad you found it useful Katie!

Kindles are the absolute best! :) Another awesome gift idea for travellers is the Avalok Airplane Mode Sleep Mask, also from Amazon!

A perfect list of gifts. I own a kindle and that has become an indispensable part of my life.

I know, I don’t know how I’d live without my Kindle!

Very cool list. I love my Buffs, they are so useful in all kinds of conditions. I carry a Tortuga backpack and love it! I use the ultrasound packing cubes and they are a life saver for keeping my pack organized.

Sounds like we have similar tastes!

The Trunki is neat but not a great choice as your one carry on item for kids. It’s bulky, heavy and awkward to carry so kids small enough to ride it can’t manage it themselves. The inside is an unusual shape which makes packing anything but clothes in it a pain. Overall, I’d not bother although we have been given one and use it occasionally. A final downer is that the age range it works for seems to be pretty limited and it only rolls well in really flat surfaces. I think it’s lovely, but only if you’ve got a suitcase and a he car! Oh, and some of them have stickers instead of printed features and they come off after a trip or 2

That’s good to know Betts. It was recommended to us by a travelling family but it sounds like it might only work in certain situations. They are cute though!

Hello Erin,

Great list of essential products you have mentioned above! As a technology Geek, i never forget to keep SD card, hard drive and my Camera with me. BTW, I am using Canon EOS 700D.

Thank you Erin for the great post!

Your content is always insightful and your site is so very nicely done. Love the negative space utilization, attention to detail and consistently good formatting.

Happiest of holidays to you and Simon.

Thanks Jack – we appreciate your kind words!

Thanks simon and erin for the suggested items. I bought the family the headlamps and we use them all the time. Kids love them (7 & 5) it came in handy when we got stuck biking and it got dark fast in NC. Keep it coming!

They are really useful aren’t they?

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T+L Editors Reveal the 21 Gifts They've Secretly Been Wanting All Year

From comfy Allbirds sneakers to Parisian pastries, here’s what we really want this season.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

When it comes to gift-giving, the holiday season can be both a blessing and a curse — after all, finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be fun, but it can also be pricey, confusing, and all-around stressful. And if someone on your list asks for a custom-made or hard-to-come-by item? Making it happen can feel like a project. 

That’s why the Travel + Leisure team got together and compiled a list of the items we’re gifting and hoping to receive ourselves this year. Some of them are must-haves specifically for travelers, but many of them are likely to be well-received by anyone on your list. The best part is that a handful of these items are up to 50 percent off right now! From a Calpak duffel bag to comfy Allbirds shoes to festive baked goods , here’s everything we’re gifting this year.

Troubadour Carrier Tote

Troubadour Goods

If you’ve been on the lookout for a carry-all that’s both functional and stylish, Troubadour’s Carrier Tote may be the bag for you. It’s structured and sturdy; plus, it’s waterproof, so it’s sure to hold up well through travel of all types. It’s also quite secure thanks to a subtle zip-top opening. Traveling with tech? The Carrier Tote has a dedicated padded laptop compartment as well as a quick-access pocket for your phone. You can even slightly change the size of the bag with built-in side snaps to better suit what you’re carrying. 

“I'm gifting this stylish bag to my best friend this year (I hope she doesn't see this before opening!),” Updates Writer Taylor Fox said. “She travels a lot for work and this is the perfect-sized bag for overnight and weekend trips alike; plus, it looks elevated and sophisticated. With plenty of pockets and durable carrying straps, travelers using this tote can stay organized on the go, no matter where their 2024 adventures take them.”

Allbirds Men's Wool Runner Mizzles

Allbirds is arguably the internet’s favorite comfy shoe brand, so consider gifting a pair this year. We especially like the Wool Runner Mizzles for their cozy merino wool uppers and water-repellent construction. Travelers can walk or run through pretty much anything when they’ve got these on without ever experiencing pain, soreness, or excessive moisture. They come in 14 colors ranging from Natural Black to Thrive Teal — some of which are up to $51 off right now.  

“I finally picked up on my husband's hints and got him these sleek, water-repellent Allbirds,” Senior Editor Kayla Becker said. “They're the shoes everyone wants, thanks in part to celebs like Ashton Kutcher rocking the brand. But they're not just stylish; they're also super comfortable, durable, and great for all-day walking (even in the rain), which I think will come in handy when we go on trips this year.”

Marmot WarmCube Active Novus Jacket

It may not look like it, but this jacket from Marmot is one of the warmest we’ve worn all year. It has a unique cube construction that offers comfort, warmth, and style, and it falls perfectly to the waist for optimal coverage in cold weather. It even features zippered hand warmer pockets and an adjustable drawcord hem to really lock in heat, plus multiple layers of insulation that will keep you warm even if the jacket gets wet. The WarmCube Active Novus comes in five sizes and three colors, and we may just be adding all three shades to our holiday list.

“After getting so much use out of this jacket myself last fall and winter, I'm gifting one to a family member this year,” Senior Editor Lydia Price said. “The cube design is incredible for retaining heat despite a light, breathable, and slim build. I found it perfect to use as a mid-layer for skiing and as an outer layer during transitional weather. Anyone who contends with a cold climate will find themselves reaching for this jacket again and again.” 

Calpak Luka Duffel

Most avid travelers would agree that they can never have too many luggage options, so consider gifting them the Calpak Luka Duffel this year. While structured, this soft bag easily folds and squishes down to be stowed under the airplane seat in front of you, or into a closet at home. Beyond its convenient storage capabilities, it also boasts luxury features like a sturdy trolley sleeve, separate shoe compartment, and durable material. The straps are crafted in a way that prevents them from digging into your shoulders no matter how much you stuff inside, and plenty of interior pockets help keep things organized. We especially love that it’s available in 21 colors ranging from neutrals to metallics. 

“I refuse to use anything but a weekender bag as a carry-on when I fly,” Associate Editor Hillary Maglin said. “I recently started using Calpak's Luka Duffel and it became my new favorite travel bag pretty much immediately. It's super soft making it comfy to carry, and it's quite spacious while remaining within carry-on size limits. I've been stopped by multiple strangers asking where I got the bag, and even my boyfriend who initially referred to it as my ‘space bag’ (I have it in the metallic gold shade) admitted it's a pretty efficient travel duffel. He just might be receiving his own this holiday season.”

Boll & Branch Signature Long Sleeve & Pants Pajama Set

Boll & Branch

There’s something about these Boll & Branch pajamas that remind us of a spa day — not just because of the zen hues they’re available in, but also because of their unbelievably soft and breathable stitch. Made with 100 percent organic long-staple cotton, these pajamas are comfy enough to wear all night and day. There’s some subtle ruching at the shoulders and on the back for a touch of femininity, and there’s both a chest pocket and an elastic waist with a drawstring string closure for added functionality. As luck would have it, they also happen to be on sale right now. Whomever your gift recipient is, they’ll likely thank you for such a luxe and comfy present. 

“Cotton pajamas are my go-to since they work in any season, and I’ve never felt more luxe than when wearing this set from Boll & Branch,” Associate Editorial Director Morgan Ashley Parker said. “They’ve gotten even softer with wear and, since my mother has been eyeing mine with envy, she’ll surely find these under the tree this year. I personally prefer the long sleeve and pants PJs but there’s also a shorts set and a sleepshirt as well.”

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set

If your giftee has a thing for the super comfy beds found in their favorite hotels, Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Sheet Set is right up their alley. These extra-soft sheets are made with 100 percent viscose from bamboo fabric, and they feel just as luxurious as that dreamy bed from their last vacation. They even made Oprah’s Favorite Things list in 2018 — they’re that comfy. Plus, they’re designed to prevent you from feeling too hot or too cold. You can snag the sheet set in 13 colors and six sizes including split king. And right now, all sizes and colors are 30 percent off. 

“These temperature-regulating sheets from Cozy Earth are buttery soft and easily the most luxurious thing I own,” Editor Sophie Mendel said. “These have seriously upgraded my sleep experience by keeping me cozy and cool all night long. They’re the perfect gift for anyone trying to get a better night's sleep or make their room feel like a five-star hotel.” 

HP Sprocket 3x4 Photo Printer

While it’s nice to keep your favorite photos stored digitally on your phone, there’s something exciting about an old-fashioned printed photo. The easiest way to get images from your phone onto paper is with HP’s Sprocket 3x4 Photo Printer. This tiny device produces vibrant, high-quality photos in seconds using zero ink technology. We’ve been obsessed with it all year — and we’re pretty sure every traveler and nostalgic loved one on your shopping list will feel the same way.

“I can't say enough great things about this adorable mini photo printer,” Mendel said. “The perfect gift for travel lovers, you can send photos directly from your phone to this portable printer for quick, instant, high-quality printing. You'll get cute mini prints on sticker paper, perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself to hang on the fridge or stick in your travel notebook to remind you of your favorite trip memories.” 

Sprinkles Holiday Assorted Dozen

When it comes to cupcakes, many connoisseurs will tell you there’s nothing better than Sprinkles. If you’ve got a loved one with a sweet tooth, they’re sure to appreciate a box of assorted Sprinkles cupcakes delivered right to their doorstep. While you can’t customize this particular box, you’ll be pleased to know it includes four vanilla, four red velvet, and four chocolate peppermint cupcakes, each decorated with holiday-themed sprinkles, candies, and fondant. This gift box may seem a bit pricey, but keep in mind that Sprinkles cupcakes are extra-large — and also wildly delicious. 

“I’m not able to attend my BFF’s Christmas party this year but I’ve got plans to send Sprinkles' holiday box of cupcakes in my place,” Parker said. “The set of 12 includes her favorite (red velvet) along with classic vanilla and a chocolate peppermint that I wish I was there in person to taste for myself. These sweet treats can be shipped anywhere nationwide — and I may just add in a box of pupcakes for her pooch, too.” 

The Dermstore Holiday Beauty Box

If you’re not into transferring your cosmetics and skincare products from their original packaging into travel-sized tubes every time you hit the road, consider adding the Dermstore Holiday Beauty Box to your wishlist. It’s packed with 21 high-end products from brands like Supergoop!, Kate Somerville, Caudalie, and more, and the best part is they’re already in TSA-compliant bottles and tubes. The box is valued at more than $750, but you can take it home for just over $100.

“This box is filled with a variety of travel-size luxury skincare goodies to pack on your next trip,” Writer Anna Popp said. “I love that all of the products are small and under 3.4 ounces, which makes it the perfect gift for someone who travels frequently and also enjoys nice skincare products.” 

Rebecca Minkoff Simple Chain Tote

Nordstrom Rack

Looking for the perfect present for your fashion-forward friend? Go for the Rebecca Minkoff Simple Chain Tote. It’s roomy enough to fit plenty of essentials without feeling oversized or heavy, and it matches with pretty much everything. It’s also classically sleek and stylish, so you’ll never have to feel like you sacrificed appearance for function. We like to use it as a carry-on for shorter trips and as our everyday commuter bag since it’s durable enough to handle moderate wear. If you buy it now, you’ll score 55 percent off the original price. 

“With so many black tote bags on the market, it's hard to find one that's strong enough to haul your stuff while still standing out from the crowd,” Testing Editor Jackie Cucco said. “I always get compliments on this one from Rebecca Minkoff, which has an edgier look thanks to the shiny leather and thick, silver chain. It's also so spacious and lightweight.”

Kelty Tru Comfort Doublewide Sleeping Bag

Give your camping pals the gift of comfort this holiday season! The Tru Comfort Doublewide Sleeping Bag by Kelty is just about as cozy as it gets when it comes to sleeping bags. It’s equipped with CloudLoft insulation, two foot vents, two built-in blankets, a zip-off top layer, and even a stuff sack for easy carrying. It’s also crafted with temperature-regulating technology, so you can bring this with you no matter the time of year. The best part? It’s large enough for two people.

“As frequent campers (and city dwellers), my husband and I are always trying to figure out how to downsize our gear without sacrificing comfort,” Fox said. “This doublewide sleeping bag is the perfect solution as it minimizes what we have to carry and store, but keeps us both warm throughout all of our camping adventures. It makes a great gift for camping couples or families and can even unzip fully to use as a picnic blanket or wear while cozied up around the fire.”

Smith Glide Jr. MIPS Helmet

Know a kiddo who’s preparing to hit the slopes for the first time this winter? Smith’s Glide Jr. MIPS Helmet is the gift they’ll need. Smith is known for its reliable ski gear, and this helmet is specially designed to protect children’s skulls from impact. Beyond that, this helmet is also quite lightweight, warm, and ventilated to keep little ones’ heads from sweating and goggles from fogging up. The Glide Jr. comes in three sizes and five colors ranging from white to cobalt.

“My nephew is starting his first ski season this year, and there's no one I trust his little noggin with more than Smith,” Price said. “I've worn the brand's ski goggles and helmets for years while honing my skills on and off-piste. They're some of the most comfortable pieces of equipment on the market, and, more importantly, they use the crème de la crème of protective technology. The Glide Jr. MIPS takes after Smith's premium adult helmets with a multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS) that reduces rotational forces on the head upon impact. He'll be rocking the helmet in the vibrant cobalt color for our family trip to Tahoe.” 

Pluto Pod Travel Pillow

You may have used travel pillows before, but you likely haven’t used a travel pillow like the Pluto Pod. Unlike most travel pillows that just sit around your neck, the Pod wraps around your neck and head like a hood or space suit. It offers support and soft cushioning from every direction so that you’re virtually guaranteed restful sleep on your next long-haul flight or road trip. Adjusting the fit of the Pod is easy, and when it’s not in use, you can simply roll it up into itself and stow it in your carry-on. It may look a little silly, but you’ll have the last laugh when you hop off the plane fully rested and free of neck pain. 

“I do a ton of research and testing on travel pillows as a T+L shopping editor, and I've found they aren't all one size fits all,” Price said. “That being said, the Pluto Pod is a perfect gift for light sleepers who take long-haul journeys. It provides ample neck support without feeling too constrictive, and the overhead design is great for blocking out light and noise. It really helps to give the illusion of privacy on public transit, and the germ-wary will appreciate extra peace of mind from full head and face coverage. I expect my giftee will appreciate the thoughtfulness that went into this perfectly tailored pick.”

Stubbs and Wooten Shaken Stirred Slippers

Whitney Robinson International

We doubt you’ll find a cooler pair of slippers than these. The James Bond-inspired unisex slippers nod to one of the spy’s most famous catchphrases without feeling kitschy, and the black velvet uppers offer an air of sophistication. The comfy and supportive kicks can be worn both indoors and outdoors thanks to their leather interior paired with stacked wooden heels. They’re also made-to-order, which is reflected in the price and wait time, but there’s no better gift for the suave Bond-lover in your life.  

“My husband is a martini man who also happens to have a thing for shoes,” Editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford said. “This Stubbs and Wootten collaboration between the Four Seasons Ocean Club — a Bahamian resort where James Bond was once filmed — and design star Whitney Robinson hits all the right notes. Black velvet shoes to wear with a black tie on the beach or on a cold winter's night? How very 007.”

Roverlund Out-of-office Carrier in Pink

Tend to travel with your pet in tow? Add Roverlund’s Out-of-office Carrier to your list this year. It’s perfect for you since it’s lightweight and comfy to carry, but your fur baby will love it, too, for its spacious interior and sturdy bottom. It has mesh panels on three sides for your pet to see out of and get some air, and it has multiple zip openings to help ease your pup or kitty in and out. There are even two different sizes available: a small 17-inch carrier that holds pets up to 15 pounds, and a large 19-inch option that holds up to 25 pounds. 

“My dog loves his black-and-yellow Roverlund carrier and the bag has just been released in hot pink, perfect for Barbie vibes this year,” Parker said. “I’m recommending it to the parents of my pup's ‘girlfriend’ so they can have matching styles on their next trip. My favorite thing about this carrier is that the crossbody strap doubles as a leash so I don’t need to stash that away or have him get tangled up with one on while inside the bag.”

Bedhead Pajamas Paris Promenade PJ Set

Bedhead PJS

Got someone on your list who’s dazzled by all things Parisian? This pajama set from Bedhead is perfect for them, and it’s just as comfy as it is cute. The long-sleeve set is made from organically grown cotton jersey material which is cozy as can be, and the whimsical Paris print paired with contrasting piping just feels stylish and fun. It even boasts side pockets on the pants and a chest pocket on the top, plus it comes in eight sizes. Perhaps the most exciting thing about the PJ set, though, is it’s currently 50 percent off. 

“Fun PJ sets are my favorite gift to give to friends and family, and this year I went with Bedhead Pajamas since they have tons of fun travel-themed prints like this Paris one,” Popp said. “The PJs are super soft and breathable so they can be worn year-round and it's the perfect way to live vicariously through travel memories in your favorite cities while cozying up at home.” 

Ladurée Eugénie Gift Box

Got a cookie lover on your list? Trust us when we tell you they need Ladurée’s Eugénie in their life. Ladurée, a famed French bakery known for its incredible macarons, released the new Eugénie this year, which is basically a crunchy shortbread cookie with a melting center and chocolate coating. They’re available in eight flavors including chocolate, blackcurrant violet, and Marie-Antoinette tea, and most flavors come in cheerful pastel colors sure to remind you of Paris. And luckily for all of us, the store ships its treats worldwide.

“I got my hands on a box of these a few months ago and have not stopped thinking of them since,” Maglin said. “Not only are they one of the most mouth-watering confections I've ever tasted, but they also had me daydreaming of Parisian cafes with every bite. If you or someone on your shopping list is obsessed with French sweets, the Eugénie is a must. I'm hoping to find a box of them under the tree this Christmas.” 

Haricot Vert ‘Dear Diary’ Custom Earrings 

Haricotvert

Custom-made presents are equally as fun to create as they are to receive. That said, we’re loving these custom earrings by Haricot Vert. Just choose 6 to 10 charms from a menu of 128 options, and Haricot Vert will put together a totally unique pair of dangle earrings for you (or your giftee). Some of our favorite charms include an artichoke, a disco ball, Saturn, and a tiny lemon painting, but there are dozens more worth adding to your earrings. Once you’ve chosen your charms, you can also choose your preferred metal color and hardware. If you go for the deluxe option, you’ll even be prompted for your Instagram handle and overall vibe so Haricot Vert can create something perfectly “you.”

“Who doesn't love adorable custom accessories as a gift for the holidays? I love my Haricot Vert earrings, and designing them was half the fun,” Associate Photo Editor Alessandra Amodio said. “Not only do they make an incredible gift, but they are also my new favorite accessory to wear while traveling. The ‘Dear Diary’ option lets you pick from over 100 charms where you then describe your ‘vibe’ to aid the designing process. Since I'm forever in my ‘tomato-girl era,’ and a lover of all things martinis and Italy, my earrings reflect that with charms ranging from wine, tomatoes, and cheese to a little statue bust and a dirty martini. They’re the perfect gift for any travel-loving creative. If designing a pair is too much pressure, pre-designed pairs like the Radis Au Beurre and Rue de le Villette are great for any French-obsessed friend.” 

Dior Limited Edition Rouge Dior Minaudière Clutch 

This pre-filled metal makeup clutch is the definition of luxury — which feels like a statement of the obvious, considering the designer is Dior. The gift set comes with not only a stunning gold clutch featuring the Dior logo, but also four of the brand’s coveted lipstick shades. Your gift recipient can also easily remove the lipsticks and fill the clutch with other makeup or essentials depending on where they’re headed. You can even have it engraved for free before checking out. And because the clutch is on the smaller side, it’s great for packing away in luggage. 

“Packing purses to travel with has always been a difficulty of mine which is what makes this the perfect gift for any beauty-loving bestie,” Amodio said. “Not only do you get to try out four shades of Dior's famously gorgeous lipsticks, but they come packed away neatly in an elegant golden metal clutch. Inside, you get a Rouge Dior lipstick in the iconic 999 and three refills in varying shades along with a chain to convert this chic clutch into a shoulder bag. It’s truly the perfect day-to-night (or night-to-day) purse that you already know will hold all your lipsticks. Plus, with that incredible Dior packaging (and a free sample or two), who wouldn't want to open this up for the holidays?” 

Cartolina Harriet Sweater

A quality sweater is a classic holiday gift, and this year, we’re loving this one from Cartolina. It’s oversized yet flattering and it’s made of ultra-soft cashmere. A mock neck works to lock in warmth while a flowing bottom keeps shoppers from overheating or feeling restricted. Just to up the style ante, Cartolina has added a small slit on the bottom of either side. The sweater comes in two colors — black and marled biscuit — and six sizes ranging from XXS to XL. 

“Cashmere is pretty much the perfect gift in my opinion, and this versatile sweater is so cozy while instantly elevating any outfit,” Fox said. “Cartolina has a series of plush sweaters, but I love that this turtle neck is the type of present you open and immediately want to wear to your next holiday party — and all winter long.”

The Renzoe Box has to be one of the coolest and most convenient ways to package makeup for traveling (or even for everyday styling). The box allows shoppers to customize their own palette of makeup products, but here’s the kicker: you can include products from different brands . Basically, this box combines the best of your favorite cosmetic brands like Tarte, Mac, Nars, Estée Lauder, Chanel, Smashbox, and more all in one convenient place. And unlike most palettes that only include one type of product, like eye shadow, this box lets you add everything from bronzer and highlighter to concealer and lipstick. 

“I recently tried out Renzoe Box and it’s such a stunning makeup set for travel,” Parker said. “Instead of packing different cosmetics, you customize up to seven ‘pods’ of high-end products (think Dior, Hourglass, Charlotte Tilbury, and more) to fit in the compact case. The box has a spot for non-pod products at the bottom and even includes brushes to perfectly fit in the side cylinder. I love that there are pre-made options plus a giftable one where you share skin, hair, and eye color details about your loved one instead.”

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Associate Editor Hillary Maglin collaborated with other members of the T+L team to compile a list of the best travel gifts we are giving and hoping to receive this holiday season. Hillary researches and writes about travel products every day, so she has personally used several of the items on this list. 

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Related Articles

The 50 Best Gifts for Travelers, According to Travel Experts

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

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

Courtesy of Glerups

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

Travel tech and accessories

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

Courtesy of Purist

1. Purist 10-Oz. Maker Mug

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

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

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

Courtesy of Nori

2. The Nori Press Steam Iron

Buy now: $120, nori.com

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

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

Courtesy of Twelve South

3. Twelve South AirFly Pro

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

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

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

Courtesy of Trtl

4. Trtl Travel Pillow

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

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

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

Courtesy of Yeti

5. Yeti Rambler Straw Mug

Buy now: from $38, yeti.com

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

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

Courtesy of Cincha

6. Cincha Travel Belt Bag

Buy now: $60, cinchatravel.com

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

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

Courtesy of SleepPhones

7. SleepPhones Bluetooth Sleep Headphones

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

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

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

Courtesy of Therabody

8. Therabody Theragun Mini

Buy now: $199, therabody.com

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

Packing essentials

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

Courtesy of Thule

9. Thule Compression Packing Cubes

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

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

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

Courtesy of Baggu

10. Baggu Go Pouch Set

Buy now: $40, baggu.com

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

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

Photo by Bailey Rebecca Roberts

11. Ries Essential Travel Bottles

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

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

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

Courtesy of Paravel

12. Paravel Cabana See-All Vanity Case

Buy now: $95, tourparavel.com

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

Tangled necklaces are now a thing of the past.

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

13. Dagne Dover Frankie Jewelry Case

Buy now: from $55, dagnedover.com

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

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

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

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

Buy now: $25, eaglecreek.com

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

>> Find more clever travel gift ideas under $100

Travel bags and luggage

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

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

15. Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Convertible Bag

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

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

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

Courtesy of North End Bags

16. North End Bag Company Virginia Beach Tote

Buy now: $185, northendbagcompany.com

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

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

17. Paravel Fold-Up Bag

Buy now: $75, tourparavel.com

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

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

Courtesy of Peak Design

18. Peak Design Everyday Totepack

Buy now: $180, peakdesign.com

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

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

Courtesy of Matador

19. Matador Freefly16 Packable Backpack

Buy now: $80, matadorup.com

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

A leather weekender that will last for years to come.

Courtesy of Leatherology

20. Leatherology Harwood Weekender

Buy now: $375, leatherology.com

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

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

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

21. Longchamp x Robert Indiana Travel Bag

Buy now: $430, longchamp.com

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

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

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

22. Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller Bag

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

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

July’s suitcase colors are anything but basic.

Courtesy of July

23. July Personalized Luggage

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

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

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

Courtesy of Roverlund

24. Roverlund Out-of-Office Pet Carrier

Buy now: from $159, roverlund.com

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

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

Courtesy of Brouk & Co

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

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

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

Travel toiletries and skincare

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

Courtesy of Blue Lagoon Iceland

26. BL+ Eye Cream

Buy now: $165, skincare.bluelagoon.com

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

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

Courtesy of Kinfield

27. Kinfield Golden Hour Bug Repellent

Buy now: $22, kinfield.com

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

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

Courtesy of Standard Dose

28. Wonder Valley Little Wonders Kit

Buy now: $72, saksfifthavenue.com

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

Travel clothes and shoes

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

Courtesy of Filson

29. Filson Women’s Wool Trapper Coat

On sale December 1: $995, filson.com

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

30. Gobi Oversized Cashmere Scarf

Buy now: $229, gobicashmere.com

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

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

Courtesy of Mountain Hardwear

31. Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Poncho

Buy now: $300, mountainhardwear.com

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

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

Photo by Cristina Fisher

32. Hotel Saint Vincent Marbled Silk Robe

Buy now: $395, farwestcollective.com

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

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

Courtesy of Amazon

33. Calzuro Classic Clog with Holes

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of Chaco

34. Chaco Ramble Puff Clogs

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

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

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

Courtesy of Sh*t That I Knit

35. Sh*t That I Knit Rutherford Beanie

Buy now: $135, shitthatiknit.com

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

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

36. Baggu Packable Sun Hat

Buy now: $36, baggu.com

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

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

Courtesy of Sabah

37. Sabah Shoes

Buy now: from $210, sabah.am

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

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

38. Glerups Slipper Boots

Buy now: $155, glerups.com

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

Compression socks are a travel essential.

Courtesy of Bombas

39. Bombas Compression Socks

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

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

Outdoor adventure gear

This blanket is campfire safe.

Courtesy of Rumpl

40. Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Blanket

Buy now: $130, rumpl.com

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

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

Courtesy of VSSL

41. VSSL Java Coffee Grinder

Buy now: $160, vsslgear.com

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

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

Courtesy of AeroPress

42. AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

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

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

This snowshoe kit is great for beginners.

Courtesy of Cascade Mountain Tech

43. Cascade Mountain Tech Expedition Trail Series kit

Buy now: $120, cascademountaintech.com

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

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

Courtesy of Maven

44. Maven B.3 Binoculars

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

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

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

Travel gifts for kids (and their parents)

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

Courtesy of Puro Sound Labs

45. Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiets Active Noise Canceling Headphones

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

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

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

Courtesy of State Bags

46. State Bags Kane Kids Mini Travel Backpack

Buy now: $78, statebags.com

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

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

Courtesy of Studio Olafur Eliasson

47. Little Sun Original Solar Lamp

Buy now : $30, goodeeworld.com

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

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

Courtesy of Stokke

48. JetKids by Stokke

Buy now: $229, stokke.com

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

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

Courtesy of WAYB

49. WAYB Pico Portable Car Seat

Buy now: $380, wayb.com

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

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

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

Courtesy of No Reception Club

50. No Reception Club “The Sidekick” Fanny Pack

Buy now: $85, noreceptionclub.com

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

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

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14 best travel credit cards of May 2024

The best travel credit cards offer an array of premium perks and benefits . For both occasional travelers and frequent flyers, adding a travel credit card to your wallet is a great way to earn rewards and save money on every trip you take. At The Points Guy, our team has done the legwork and curated a selection of the best travel credit cards for any globe-trotter, whether you prefer to backpack through mountains or settle into a luxury villa for some relaxation. From generous travel credits to premium lounge access, we’ve chosen the cards packed with the best benefits to elevate your next travel experience.

Check out our list below and discover which travel credit card from our partners makes the best addition to your wallet for all of your adventures.

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for earning miles
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for premium travel
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for beginner travelers
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for maximizing business purchases
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for lounge access
• American Express® Gold Card : Best for dining at restaurants
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best for no annual fee
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for business travel
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : Best for unlimited point earning
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for travel credits
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for variety of bonus categories
• American Express® Business Gold Card : Best for flexible rewards earning
• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for travel rewards beginners
• Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card : Best for Alaska Airlines miles

Browse by card categories

Comparing the best credit cards, more details on the best credit cards, credit pointers with brian kelly, what is a travel credit card, helpful tools, how we rate cards, how to maximize travel credit cards, how to choose the best travel credit card, ask our experts, pros + cons of travel credit cards, frequently asked questions.

• Airport Lounge Access

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn earns 2 miles per dollar on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

• This flexible rewards card delivers a solid sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles, worth $1,388 based on TPG valuations and not provided by the issuer.
• You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories.
• Rewards earned are versatile as they can be redeemed for any hotel or airline purchase for a statement credit or transferred to 15+ travel partners.
• Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
• Capital One airline partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

If you can maximize the  $300 credit toward Capital One Travel, the Venture X’s annual fee effectively comes down to $95, the same annual fee pegged to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ). Add in a 10,000-mile bonus every account anniversary (worth $185, according to TPG valuations ) and lounge access, and the card may become the strongest option out there for a lot of travelers. Read our full  review of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

• 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
• $395 annual fee
• $300 credit annually, only applicable for bookings made through Capital One Travel portal
• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

• You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases, 2 points per dollar on all other travel and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
• Annual $50 Chase Travel Hotel Credit
• Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.
• The card comes with a $95 annual fee.
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full  review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card .

• One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening.
• Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption.
• Reasonable $95 annual fee.
• Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners; primary car insurance.
• Perks including cellphone and purchase protection; extended warranty; trip cancellation/interruption insurance; trip delay reimbursement.
• Yearly cap on bonus categories.
• No travel perks.
• Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications.
• Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee. Read our full  review of the Platinum Card from American Express .

• The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
• This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and more than $1,400 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. (enrollment required)
• The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.
• The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
• Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
• The annual airline fee credit and other monthly statement credits can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.
• See Rates & Fees

American Express® Gold Card

This isn’t just a card that’s nice to look at. It packs a real punch, offering 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar). There’s also an up to $120 annual dining credit at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com ,  Milk Bar, and select Shake Shack locations, plus it added an up to $120 annually ($10 per month) in Uber Cash, which can be used on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. All this make it a very strong contender for all food purchases, which has become a popular spending category. Enrollment is required for select benefits. Read our full review of the Amex Gold .

• 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
• 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with the airline or with Amex Travel.
• Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months of account opening.
• Weak on travel and everyday spending bonus categories.
• Not as effective for those living outside the U.S.
• Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits.
• Few travel perks and protections.
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of travel rewards, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great way to get started. With no annual fee and a simple 1.25 miles per dollar on all your purchases, you won’t have to keep up with multiple bonus categories — just earn rewards on everything you purchase! Coupled with the 20,000-mile sign-up bonus, you can use your rewards to book travel, transfer to Capital One’s loyalty partners and more. Read our full review of the  Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

• No annual fee.
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 within the first three months from account opening.
• Use your miles to book or pay for travel at a 1-cent value, or transfer your miles to loyalty programs to gain potentially even greater value for your rewards.
• Earn 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Other credit cards can offer you higher rewards for your common purchase categories.
• Capital One airline transfer partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is a great card for frequent travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their business trips. While the card does come with a high annual fee, you’re also getting a ton of valuable benefits in return. They include generous annual travel credits, unparalleled lounge access that includes Amex Centurion Lounges and more. Read our full  review on The Business Platinum Card from American Express .

• Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years or $85 TSA PreCheck credit every 4.5 years (enrollment is required)
• Up to $400 annual statement credit for U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required)
• Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels; access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection (enrollment required)
• Steep $695 annual fee.
• High spend needed for welcome offer.
• Limited high bonus categories outside of travel.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey credit card offers healthy reward earning rates on top of uncapped point-earning meaning the sky's the limit — especially if you strategize and spend in popular categories.

• No foreign transaction fees
• Uncapped earning potential
• $50 annual statement credit
• Solid point earning rates in popular categories
• This card features an annual fee
• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 annual fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, bonus points on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card .

• $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards hotel and airline travel partners.
• 10 points per dollar on hotels, car rentals and Chase Dining purchases through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through the Chase Travel portal, 3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining, 1 point per dollar on everything else
• 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Travel
• Steep initial $550 annual fee.
• May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently.
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph card packs a punch for a no-annual-fee product, with an array of bonus categories plus solid perks and straightforward redemption options. Read our  full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph here .

• This card offers 3 points per dollar on various everyday purchases with no annual fee. It also comes with a 20,000-point welcome bonus and an introductory APR offer on purchases. Plus, you'll enjoy up to $600 in cellphone protection when you pay your monthly bill with the card. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Despite the lucrative earning structure, Wells Fargo doesn't offer any ways to maximize your redemptions — you're limited to fixed-value rewards like gift cards and statement credits.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.

American Express® Business Gold Card

The Amex Business Gold card is a solid choice for high-spending small businesses with the flexibility to earn 4 points per dollar in the two categories where you spend the most. The card is ideal for businesses who value simplicity above all. Read our full  review of the American Express Business Gold Card .

• You'll earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar in the top 2 spending categories each month (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year).
• Hefty $375 annual fee.
• There may be better options for small businesses who don't spend a lot.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
• Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
• Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.
• Your Card – Your Choice. Choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
• *Terms Apply

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card is a great starter card thanks to its no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees when you travel internationally. Earning and redeeming is effortless, with no confusing bonus categories to keep track of and the ability to redeem your points for all of your travel needs. Read our  full review of the Bank of America Travel Rewards  card.

• 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases
• No annual fee
• Bank of America does not offer airline or hotel transfer partners like other banks such as American Express, Chase or Capital One.
• No travel and purchase protections.
• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

There’s a lot to love about the Alaska Airlines credit card, in part due to its highly valuable loyalty program: Alaska Airlines MileagePlan. Whether you’re a loyal Alaska flyer or a points maximizer looking to diversify your rewards portfolio, this card has a lot to offer. For starters, you’ll receive Alaska’s Famous Companion Pass each year from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year, free checked bags for you and up to six guests on your itinerary, 20% back on in-flight purchases and more. Plus, Alaska has joined the oneworld alliance, opening up endless redemption opportunities. Read our  full review of the Alaska Airline credit card.

• Free checked bag for you and up to six guests on your reservation.
• Alaska discounts, including 20% back on in-flight purchases.
• Limited Time Online Offer—60,000 Bonus Miles!
• Get 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
• Get Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
• Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
• Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card — Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
• With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
• This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

With the Capital One Venture, you’re earning 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which makes it easy to rack up rewards without having to juggle different bonus categories or spending caps. And with flexible redemption options and a manageable annual fee, this card is an excellent choice if you’re looking to keep just one credit card in your wallet for all spending.

Those looking to earn flexible rewards should use the Capital One Venture card as it allows you to redeem miles for a fixed value or transfer the miles you earn to 15+ airline and hotel transfer partners , including Avianca, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines and Singapore Airlines.

“The Capital One Venture is a great card that can add value to pretty much anyone’s wallet. I use it to earn 2 miles per dollar on the purchases that fall outside of my other cards’ bonus categories. The annual fee is low, Capital One miles are easy to redeem and the card does come with a few nice perks — including TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee reimbursement.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

Even if you’re a casual traveler, consider jumping to the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  (see  rates and fees ). The card’s up to $300 annual credit for purchases made with Capital One Travel immediately covers the higher annual fee — and that’s not even considering the added perks you’ll enjoy.

At $395 per year (see rates and fees ), this premium card is cheaper than all of its competitors without sacrificing the breadth of valuable perks it includes. Cardholders will get unlimited visits to Capital One’s premium network of lounges and 1,300-plus Priority Pass lounges worldwide  and able to bring up to two guests for no additional charge.

For frequent travelers, the Capital One Venture X is a must-have and is well worth the $395 annual fee. If you travel frequently with your significant other, family or friends, you can even add some authorized users for no additional cost. This will grant them their own lounge access (and the ability to bring up to two guests for no fee), among many other benefits, making this a huge cost-saver for those who travel in groups.

“With an annual fee that is $300 less than The Platinum Card® from American Express (see Amex Platinum rates and fees ), the Capital One Venture X card is my favorite travel credit card. The card comes with an annual $300 Capital One Travel credit, which I use to book flights. That effectively brings the annual fee down to $95 per year (see rates and fees ). Cardholders enjoy a Priority Pass Select membership. Authorized users — you geta number of them at no cost — also enjoy their own Priority Pass Select membership. I use my Venture X card to earn 2 miles per dollar (a 3.7% return at TPG’s valuations ) in spending categories where most cards would only accrue 1 mile — like auto maintenance, pharmacies and medical bills.” — Kyle Olsen , former points and miles reporter

Those turned off by the Venture X’s annual fee could opt for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , which has a $95 annual fee (see rates and fees ), identical sign-up bonus and similar earning and redemption options.

You’ll earn a solid return on dining and travel (6% back and 4% back, respectively, based on TPG valuations ) on top of your generous sign-up bonus, and you also have access to some of the best travel protections offered by any travel rewards credit card.

We’ve long suggested the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card   as an excellent option for those who are new to earning travel rewards because it lets you earn valuable, transferable points  with strong bonus categories and a reasonable annual fee.

“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has remained a top card in my wallet for years. Between the consistently strong sign-up bonus, low annual fee and continual improvements that have been made over the years, it’s hard for any other mid-tier rewards card to compare. I love that I can earn bonus rewards on travel, dining, streaming and online grocery purchases — all with just one card. Plus, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valuable and easy to use whether you’re new to points and miles or an expert.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

To add more luxury to your travel experience, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . Though it comes with a higher annual fee, you’ll enjoy Priority Pass lounge access plus a $300 annual travel credit.

The Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 in combined travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services and advertising purchases made on social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. TPG’s most recent valuations  peg the value of Chase Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents apiece, so you’ll get a fantastic return of 6% on purchases in these categories.

If you spend a lot on business travel or social media advertising, you’ll be able to earn significant points using the Ink Business Preferred card .

“I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I’ve found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.” — Katie Genter , senior writer

If you don’t want to worry about maximizing specific purchases and are looking for a lower spending requirement to earn a sign-up bonus, consider the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card , which offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases and carries no annual fee.

The Amex Platinum is a stellar premium travel card that can provide amazing redemptions . Besides the welcome offer, it comes with more than $1,400 in credits each year and various lounge access options. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Anyone looking for luxury travel benefits will find that the ton of annual statement credits make the annual fee worth it. Plus, you’ll get unparalleled lounge access , automatic Gold status with Hilton and Marriott, and extra perks with Avis Preferred , Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Car Rental Emerald Club . Enrollment is required for select benefits.

“While this card has a high annual fee, it more than justifies itself for frequent travelers like me. The lounge access options that come with the Platinum are unrivaled by competitors. I put all of my flights on this card to earn 5 points per dollar spent and trip protection insurance. I make sure to take full advantage of the Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, Hulu/Disney+ and Clear credits (enrollment is required). And, honestly, pulling a Platinum card out of your wallet to pay for something does feel pretty fancy.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  can be a great alternative to the Amex Platinum, with a notably lower annual fee, similar perks and a more rewarding earning rate on everyday purchases.

The Amex Gold earns 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants, with no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees ), meaning you’ll get an 8% return on purchases (based on TPG’s valuations ). While a few other cards temporarily offer higher return rates on dining, this is the best option for long-term spending, making it one of the best dining cards and best rewards cards .

Those looking for a great return on dining and purchases at U.S. supermarkets will get a lot of value from this card.

“Groceries and dining at restaurants are two of my top spending categories, and I love that the Amex Gold rewards those purchases with 4 points per dollar. When you factor in the $10 dining credit and $10 in Uber Cash each month, the $250 annual fee is a net cost of $10.” — Senitra Horbrook , former credit cards editor

For those who dine out a lot and also want additional bonus categories and other valuable perks for a lower annual fee, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

The no-annual-fee Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card (see  rates and fees ) has the same redemption options as its sibling card (the Venture Rewards card) but with a lower rewards rate and fewer perks. The miles earned on the card can also be transferred to airline and hotel partners, a benefit not usually seen with a no-annual-fee card.

The VentureOne is a strong card to have in your arsenal and great if you are budgeting. After all, there aren’t many no-annual-fee cards with the ability to transfer points and miles directly to travel partners, so it’s a big bonus that this card offers that (see rates and fees ).

“I wanted a credit card that earns Capital One miles without an annual fee, and this is a winner (see rates and fees ). It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some other cards, but I’m happy earning 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases without paying a fee to keep this card year after year. I’ll never cancel this card.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For a small annual fee, many travelers could benefit from the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’ll earn at least 2 miles per dollar on all purchases and receive a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership.

There are certain ways to earn bonus points for spending on the Amex Business Platinum Card, but it’s the array of perks on the card that make it a great option. Beyond airport lounge access and automatic hotel elite status, there are a number of statement credits that are specifically targeted to common business expenses.

If you travel for business frequently, this card could help you upgrade your experience in the air and on the ground while saving you money on select business-related services. And the current welcome bonus is just the icing on the cake.

“I find that the annual perks and credits vastly outweigh the large annual fee. And that’s even without using some of them. By using the benefits with Priority Pass and Amex lounges, the airline incidental credits, plus the statement credits for Clear, our cellphone plan and restocking my home printer with ink and paper from Dell (enrollment required), I get more value out of the card than it costs to keep it. Plus, it earns my favorite points — American Express Membership Rewards — earning 5 points per dollar on flights and hotels booked with Amex Travel.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For less-frequent travelers, consider the American Express®  Business Gold Card , which offers 4 points per dollar spent on your top two spending categories each month on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter).

The Autograph Journey offers cardholders the chance to earn elevated rates across travel categories including 5 points per dollar spent on hotels, 4 points per dollar on airline purchases and 3 points per dollar on restaurants and 'other travel' which includes timeshares, car rentals, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites and campgrounds. On top of this, cardholders also get the added benefit of earning a flat rate of 1 point per dollar on other purchases for a $95 annual fee.

If you travel frequently and are looking for a card to help you rack up points you can redeem for future travel, this card is a decent option. Additionally, those looking for a way to fill gaps in their points earning strategy will benefit from the flat 1 point per dollar spent on other purchases outside of the main travel categories.

Another great perk the Autograph Journey features is an annual $50 statement credit triggered by an airline purchase of at least $50. This is on top of elevated earning rates in the certain travel categories and a solid welcome offer for new applicants. There's also no foreign transaction fees on the Autograph Journey card making it a good first travel card as well as a decent supplemental card to add to your travel credit card roster.

If you're looking for a more general use credit card with no annual fee, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see  rates and fees ). It earns a flat rate of 2% cash rewards on purchases making an excellent choice to help fill gaps in your reward earning strategy. The best part? Like the Autograph Journey card, the Active Cash Card doesn't put a cap on the amount of cash back you can earn.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with an annual $300 travel credit to offset a variety of expenses — such as airfare, hotels, rental cars, transit and more. You’re also getting an up-to-$100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit  once every four years along with Priority Pass Select membership. And Chase’s slate of transfer partners allows plenty of opportunity to get the maximum value from your points.

Those looking for elevated earning rates and extensive travel protections should have this card in their wallet. The 50% redemption bonus when you use your points to pay for travel through the Chase portal  is also a nice perk.

“I’ve had the Sapphire Reserve for years, and it’s going to stay in my wallet for the near future. I get $300 off travel every year along with great earning rates on travel and dining (3 points per dollar) and various trip protections that can reimburse me when things go wrong. And by leveraging other cards in the Ultimate Rewards ecosystem, I’m able to maximize the earnings across all of my purchases.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you just can’t stomach the Sapphire Reserve’s $550 annual fee, go for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card  instead. It has similar perks, redemption options and travel protections — for a much lower $95 per year.

The Wells Fargo Autograph is a great no-annual-fee card that offers quality earning categories and travel and shopping protection.

Travel card beginners who are looking to get into points earning should consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which offers a welcome bonus, 3 points per dollar on a variety of everyday spending categories and cellphone protection.

If you’re just getting into the travel credit card world and are not sure travel cards are for you, consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which will allow you to earn bonus points on travel spending without the commitment of an annual fee.

If you’re looking to earn transferable reward points but still maintain a similar earning structure, consider the Bilt Mastercard® (see rates and fees ). The card earns 3 points per dollar on dining and 2 points per dollar on travel purchases for no annual fee. Plus, Bilt points can be transferred to any of its multiple travel partners. 

The American Express Business Gold card comes packed with perks and benefits, but its most unique feature is the ability to shift your monthly bonus categories. Cardholders will automatically earn 4 points per dollar in their top two spending categories on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter), so if your business spending varies month to month, you won’t have to commit to a bonus category.

The American Express Business Gold card is an excellent choice for business owners who are looking for a premium business card with premium business perks like monthly office supply statement credits, travel and shopping protection and access to The Hotel Collection.

The American Express Business Gold is an excellent choice for small businesses that have changing bonus categories but still want more premium business perks and benefits.

If you still want to earn Membership Rewards points without paying an annual fee, consider The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (see rates and fees ), which earns 2 Membership Rewards points on all business purchases (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card operates similarly to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’re earning flat-rate rewards across all spending, and then you can use those rewards as a statement credit to cover eligible travel purchases.

It’s perfect for low-budget beginner travelers  who want a card with no annual fee and a simple way to earn and redeem points.

“I’m happy earning 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases on a card without an annual fee. I can’t pay for everything in life with transferable points, and it’s nice to have a card with fixed-value points for those situations. I use this card for travel purchases where I need to pay in cash, then I can reimburse myself with the points.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re interested in a card with transferable miles that still has no annual fee (see  rates and fees ), consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

The Alaska Airlines Visa earns 3 miles per dollar on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases; 2 miles per dollar on eligible gas, EV charging stations, cable, streaming services and transit (including local ride share purchases); and 1 mile per dollar on everything else. You get a free checked bag on Alaska flights for you and up to six guests on your reservation, an annual Companion Fare on your account anniversary and 20% back on all inflight purchases.

Whether you live on the West Coast or not, the Alaska Airlines Visa is a good cobranded airline card to consider adding to your wallet. The Seattle-based airline is mostly limited to North American routes, but international destinations through Oneworld partners make this card valuable for all travelers.

“With new benefits, this card is even more valuable to me — even with its higher annual fee. It provides a free first checked bag, discounts on inflight purchases and priority boarding. My favorite feature, however, is the annual Companion Fare. I get hundreds of dollars in annual value from this perk.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re not looking to collect airline-specific miles, a general travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card might be a better option.

Travel rewards credit cards earn points, miles or cash back that are redeemable for travel expenses or are geared toward travel spending. The cards on this list are some of the best credit cards to book flights , hotels and more with their many perks and rewards . 

Travel credit cards offer rewards on different purchases that can help you book flights, hotels and more for little to no out-of-pocket expenses. Some cards also provide valuable perks and benefits that upgrade the overall travel experience — from Global Entry application fee credits to lounge access to complimentary elite status . If you have the right card (or cards) in your wallet, the sky is the limit on where your travels can take you — literally.

Additionally, it’s often advantageous to travel with more than one credit card for a variety of reasons. Carrying a backup credit card when you travel can provide peace of mind in the case of bank or issuer problems or if you have a card flagged for fraud while you travel. (In this case, knowing if your card requires you to set up travel alerts for lengthy travel could be worthwhile).

Are you new to travel rewards? Check out our beginner’s guide to all things points and miles . You’ll learn about top loyalty programs, how to maximize your credit card strategy to reach your travel goals and so much more.

Related: The complete history of credit cards, from antiquity to today

We have researched various types of travel credit cards to help you figure out which one is best for you.

Travel vs cash back credit cards

A travel credit card is a card that is geared toward travel spending and a cash-back credit card is a card that earns cash back on purchases made with the card.

Generally, when we are talking about travel credit cards we refer to cards that earn points and miles like the Platinum Card from American Express or the Hilton Honors Aspire card. The Platinum Amex earns transferable points which can be used with any of Amex's travel partners while the Hilton Honors Aspire card only earns Hilton points which can be redeemed at Hilton properties. These cards do not earn cash back on any purchases.

Cash back cards generally offer cash back as a flat rate or feature bonus categories that earn an elevated cash back rate. Select cash-back cards can also be a great travel card such as the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express which offers 3% cash back on transit including rideshare, trains, buses, and more. Even though it is a cash-back card, the Blue Cash Preferred offers an elevated return on select transportation which potentially makes it a solid travel card option.

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel credit cards work like other reward credit cards: They help you earn rewards, primarily points and miles, on your purchases. This section will primarily focus on transferable rewards credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express, as they are what are typically considered travel credit cards.

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

How to earn transferable points

Transferable points credit cards earn points or miles when you make a purchase on the cards. These points and miles can then be transferred to travel partners for rewards like flights, hotel stays and more. Different cards will have different currencies, but they are generally called either “points” or “miles” (depending on the issuer). All transferable reward credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards will have their own currency that is redeemable for travel rewards. 

Travel cards have varying rates for different purchase categories. For example, the American Express® Gold Card card earns 4 points per dollar spent on restaurants but only 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or Amex Travel. While the Amex Platinum may be a better card for travel as it earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights (booked directly with airline or Amex Travel and up to $500,000 per calendar year), the Amex Gold can be a good addition for Platinum holders who spend a lot of money on dining out.

Related: How to redeem American Express Membership Rewards for maximum value

How to redeem points and miles  

Once you’ve decided on a travel credit card and earned a welcome bonus, it’s time to put those points or miles toward free travel. There are many ways to redeem your rewards with travel credit cards. Many cards feature an online booking portal through which you can use your rewards to book things like flights, hotels and car rentals. Before booking your flight, you should consider doing a  flight portal comparison to ensure you're getting the best redemption. Others allow you to transfer your points or miles to individual loyalty programs. Depending on the redemption, this could unlock even more value.

There are plenty of ways to ensure you don’t make mistakes with your travel rewards . For instance, be sure you do your research with your rewards to get a high-value redemption and make sure your accounts are in good standing so you don’t risk losing them.  

Related: Tips and tricks to get maximum value from your Capital One miles

It’s up to you to decide whether a specific trip is worth spending your rewards. You can use TPG’s monthly valuations to help you determine if the price of your flight or hotel room is worth your points and miles. Some travels are more affordable in cash, but you can always save your points to splurge on a business-class flight to Europe or an overwater bungalow at a luxury resort. 

How to use travel credit card portals  

In the world of travel credit cards, the four major players are American Express, Capital One, Chase and Citi. These issuers also have their own travel portals which can be used to earn and redeem points for travel. 

Some issuers, like Capital One and Chase , offer an incentive to book travel through the bank’s portal but it is not always worth booking through a portal. 

We do not recommend booking hotel travel through card portals as it typically does not honor elite-status benefits or elite-qualifying stay credits. 

Luckily, flights typically allow you to earn bonus points through a card issuer’s portal and with the airline. Keep in mind that this does not apply to all cards. When purchasing in cash, there generally is little variance in booking through a portal or on the airline’s website so if your travel credit card offers incentives to book through the portal , it can be a great way to earn extra points. 

Related: Ultimate guide to the Citi travel portal

Points and miles redemptions will have a fair variance, especially if there are incentives to book through the travel portals. Overall, travel portals can be a great addition to your points redemption journey if properly used. Always remember to compare the price or redemption value of booking through a portal or directly with an airline. 

Booking through a portal may make matters complicated if you ever need to change or cancel your flight. 

Related: Battle of the credit card travel portals: Which is the best for booking flights?

Types of travel credit cards

Travel credit cards are cards that are geared towards travel spending. Luckily, there are many types of travel credit cards which means there is a good option for any traveler. Typically, when talking about travel credit cards, we are referring to transfer rewards credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards. There are additional types of travel credit cards that are less popular but can still be a good option for the right traveler.

Transferable rewards credit cards earn points and miles that can be redeemed through a card’s rewards program directly or by transferring them to a travel partner . Many of our best travel credit cards fall under this category because they are the most valuable type of points you can earn. Transferable rewards give you the flexibility to redeem your rewards in a way that will be most beneficial to you. Examples of top transferable rewards cards are the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Airline cobranded cards earn a specific type of airline miles. These cards also generally come with perks specific to that airline. For example, an airline card may offer free checked bags , a certain number of elite-qualifying miles to help you reach status, priority boarding privileges, inflight discounts and more.

Hotel cobranded cards work like airline cards. You’ll earn rewards that are redeemable for a particular hotel program, such as Hilton or Marriott. Hotel cards come with their own benefits, such as complimentary elite status or free award-night stays. In addition, hotel cards can help you stack your earnings on hotel stays with the hotel’s program.

For example, if you have a Marriott credit card , you’ll earn bonus points for every dollar spent at participating Marriott properties on top of the 10 base points you get as a member of the Bonvoy program. This can really amplify the rewards you can earn when you use your hotel card to pay for your booking.

The points and miles world can be confusing for new credit card users but it doesn’t have to be. While transferable rewards cards are arguably the best way to earn points and miles for travel, they can also be incredibly confusing. Fixed-value credit cards and cash-back credit cards are good alternatives for beginners who are looking to get into the travel credit card world.

Fixed-value cards earn points or miles that are always redeemed for the same value. For example, the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card earns points worth 1 cent each. These cards are great for beginners who haven’t quite gotten the hang of maximizing transferable points or casual travelers who are looking for their first travel credit card . Fixed-value credit cards are often the best travel credit cards for beginners. 

As more hotels and airlines move to a dynamic pricing model where award pricing shifts dramatically, fixed-value rewards programs are becoming more popular.

Another great credit card option for casual travelers or credit card beginners is cash-back credit cards. You don’t have to worry about points, transfer partners or maximizing your rewards with these cards. Cash-back cards provide a percentage of cash back on your spending and provide a simple way to save on your upcoming travels. 

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) is a great option for beginners to travel rewards. It earns unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and has no annual fee.

Travel credit card benefits

Some travel cards offer automatic elite status with various programs when you sign up and can also accelerate the journey to elite airline status by converting points to air miles. If you are loyal to a particular hotel brand, status with that brand will be valuable. You’ll be entitled to room upgrades, resort credits, early check-in, late checkout and more. If you’re not loyal, it won’t. The same goes for elite status with an airline — you’ll get lounge access, upgrades, increased baggage allowance, etc. When comparing the perks of various cards like elite status, be realistic about which ones you will and won’t use.

One of the coveted perks of premium travel credit cards is complimentary airport lounge access. Many premium travel credit cards come with Priority Pass lounge access , a membership that allows access to airport lounges across the world. These lounges are a great place to relax before your flight or have a snack during a long layover. Amenities will vary between lounges but most lounges provide wifi, private seating and refreshments. Be sure to check the priority pass guest policy as many lounges allow you to bring a complimentary guest (or guests).

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both expedited screening programs for travelers. TSA PreCheck is reserved for expedited security screening for domestic flights and Global Entry provides expedited customs screening for international travelers when entering the United States. 

The application fee for TSA PreCheck is up to $85 and $100 for Global Entry. If you are approved for the program, the membership is valid for 5 years. Many travel credit cards will offer statement credit for the application . 

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Earn the welcome bonus

One of the best ways to maximize your travel credit cards is to earn the welcome bonus . Most travel credit cards will offer a welcome or sign-up bonus that allows cardmembers to earn points or miles that would otherwise require a very high spend. Welcome bonuses are a crucial part of a card’s value, so before you apply for your next travel card, be sure to plan for how you will meet the spending requirement. Ideally, you would align large purchases with your card opening so that you don’t need to spend frivolously to earn that lucrative welcome bonus .

Use a travel card that matches your travel style

There is a travel credit card for everyone, but not every travel card is the best fit for your wallet . Consider what type of traveler you are, whether you have any brand loyalty and what perks you are looking for from your next credit card. If you travel often and in luxury, consider premium cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express or Chase Sapphire Reserve® . These cards are loaded with tons of luxury perks like lounge access and automatic elite status . 

Alternatively, if you’re a more thrifty traveler who likes to maximize your travel earnings, consider a mid-tier travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . These cards allow you to earn points on your travel, and while they don’t come with a long list of luxury perks, they’re much more cost-effective for a traveler on a budget .

And even beginners don’t have to veer away from travel cards, since many products out there offer an introduction to the travel rewards world without incurring an annual fee.

It’s important to consider where you’re looking to go when you book trips, as certain cards are especially useful for international travel . Plus, if you’re someone who frequents the skies (such as a digital nomad), there are certain credit cards best for long-term travelers .

Knowing what your travel style is like will help you determine what type of travel card you need.

Use loyalty programs to stack your rewards

You don’t have to limit your earnings to just travel credit cards . Many airlines and hotel chains have loyalty programs that can be used in conjunction with your travel card to unlock added perks when doing business with a specific brand. In addition, many travel credit cards allow you to transfer points from your card to your eligible loyalty programs . This can open up nearly endless redemption options, including award chart sweet spots that can get you the most maximized redemptions for your points and miles.

• 1 Sign-up bonus Choosing a card with a healthy sign-up bonus will help jumpstart the possibility of unlocking elite status across different areas, including airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• 2 Annual fee Premium travel credit cards typically feature higher annual fees. Double-check that the card you choose suits your spending habits and travel needs before applying.
• 3 Bonus categories It also helps to check which bonus categories a card offers to ensure that they align with your spending, whether it’s at restaurants, at grocery stores or on streaming subscriptions.

What's your favorite travel credit card — and why?

• Using credit cards responsibly can help build your credit score
• Travel credit cards can earn cash back, points or miles on every dollar you spend.
• Travel credit cards can provide purchase, theft and fraud protection.
• Travel credit cards provide perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and more.
• Credit cards can encourage overspending.
• Carrying a balance and using your card irresponsibly can damage your credit score
• The cost of borrowing on credit cards is higher than traditional loans
• Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score
• Travel credit cards may be too complicated (or expensive) for those who aren’t frequent travelers.

Generally speaking, you need at least a very good credit score in order to get many popular travel credit cards. According to FICO, the scoring model used by most lenders, this is a score of at least 740. However, there’s no hard-and-fast rule, as each individual credit card issuer looks at a variety of factors in addition to your credit score when deciding whether to approve or decline your application.

Thankfully, there are a number of ways to check your credit score for free , so you can get an idea of where you stand before wasting an application (and a hard inquiry on your credit report) for a card for which you’re unlikely to qualify.

Points and miles are simply two different ways to describe the same thing: the rewards you earn on a credit card. As an example, many popular Capital One credit cards earn miles, whereas cards that participate in Chase Ultimate Rewards accrue points. There’s no appreciable difference between the two words.

This gets a little more complicated when you begin discussing cash-back credit cards. Some of these show earnings with a dollar amount, while others show cash-back rewards in points. However, here too there’s no significant difference. It’s simply how the card issuer chooses to describe the rewards you’re earning.

It depends entirely on your typical travel habits. Many popular travel credit cards feature rewards, benefits and redemption options that only come into play when you’re actually on the road. This includes perks like airport lounge access,  rental car insurance  or statement credits for certain travel purchases. Ultimately, you should look at how much value you expect to get out of a given travel card in one year. Then, compare that to the card’s annual fee to make sure you’re getting at least that much value.

It depends. Generally speaking, you should aim to use your rewards from travel credit cards for travel-related purchases – like flights or hotel rooms. However, everyone has a different version of what “value” looks like here. Some travelers are perfectly content redeeming 25,000 miles for a $250 economy flight. Others would rather save up and use 100,000 miles for a $5,000 business-class ticket. The important thing is to avoid redemptions like gift cards or merchandise, since those typically offer poor value for your points and miles.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine whether you want to keep cash in your pocket by using rewards for a particular purchase instead.

Many of the luxury travel cards on this list offer hundreds of dollars in annual travel statement credits. However, not all annual travel statements are created equal. While some cards feature easy redemptions, other cards feature redemptions that come with more restrictions. 

Out of the various cards that offer annual travel credits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has the easiest redemption process for travel credits . The Chase Sapphire Reserve's travel credit covers a broad selection of charges, including flights, hotels, campgrounds and more. Additionally, the travel does not have to be booked through Chase’s travel portal, and the statement credit will automatically post when you make an eligible purchase. 

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Medea Giordano

The 19 Best Subscription Boxes for Gifting

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

For Plant Lovers Horti Plant Subscription Read more

For the Old-School Music Fan Vinyl Me, Please Subscription Read more

For Kids KiwiCo Kiwi Crate Read more

For the WIRED Ones Breo Box Read more

Between birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays, it's easy to run out of gift ideas. Don't throw your hands in the air yet—consider a subscription box. There are boxes for nearly every interest, and your giftee can try a bunch of stuff that would be far too expensive for you to compile yourself. You can buy them for one month, but we think three months makes the perfect gift since they'll get that warm giddy feeling again and again. I'm also a firm believer that you need to gift yourself every so often. These boxes work whether you're buying for yourself or someone else.

None of the options below require contracts, so you can cancel at any time. (Check the fine print of the plan you're choosing and see how many days before billing you need to notify to cancel.) If you purchase a multiple-month subscription, you can cancel the auto-renew, but you won't get money back for the boxes that haven't shipped yet. We've noted when boxes have separate gift options, which typically cost a little more, but you won't have to worry about canceling. Keep in mind that subscription boxes tend to ship at a very specific time every month, so they won't mail out immediately upon ordering if you're rushing for a last-minute gift .

Be sure to check out our many other gift guides , like Gifts for Teens and 25 Gifts Under $25 , and some of our favorite gifts , like these tactical pants .

Updated November 2023: We added Vinyl Me, Please records and Vellabox candles. We also updated pricing throughout.

For Plant Lovers

When it comes to flora, people tend to gift flowers. They're pretty and smell good, but they're already halfway dead by the time they get to your giftee. On the other hand, plants are fantastic gifts that can live on for years if cared for correctly. Horti makes it easy for someone to slowly turn their living quarters into a jungle.

Choose between pet-friendly and beginner plants (or go for Horti's pick) and either a plain terra-cotta pot or one with nice painted features. Each box comes with one plant, a puck of potting soil, and tips and advice for caring for them. The plants are carefully packaged, so they shouldn't be damaged in the mail. There's a rare plant subscription available too.

Price breakdown: Starting at $25 per month, $260 for six months, $510 for 12 months. (All cost a few dollars more for a painted pot, or less if you can pick it up in NYC.) Prices don't include shipping. There are specific gift options that do not auto-renew and include shipping costs: $155 for three months, $310 for six months, $590 for 12 months. Rare plants are $420 for six months, and a kid's three-month gift option costs $135.

For the Old-School Music Fan

Vinyl Me, Please sends an exclusively pressed record every month to those who can't get enough of that old-school sound . Choose between hip hop, country, rock, classics, or essentials categories, and members can swap that month's pick for another title in their catalog if they'd prefer.

You can set up the membership for them or opt to gift a membership . If you go with the latter, you'll either print a confirmation for them to redeem or have them emailed on a date of your choosing. They can set up their own profile and choose their music preferences from there.

Price breakdown: $46 per month, $128 for three months, $237 for six months, $435 for 12 months. Gift-specific options cost the same, but don't auto-renew and are available for three, six, or 12 months.

Younger kids tend to like any random, plastic toy, but after a while they end up in the pile that go unused. We think a subscription box like this is a better option to give them interesting hands-on activities that they'll enjoy (and hopefully learn from in the process!).

KiwiCo has boxes for five age groups—from under 2 years to 14ish—and a range of themes you can choose from. You can pick cooking, geography, engineering, and more ( see them all here —you can switch them up as you want). WIRED senior associate editor Adrienne So has watched her kids make everything from water guns to kaleidoscopes; she said there was even a night-themed box where everything glowed.

Price breakdown: Kiwi Crates start at $24 a month, $66 for three months, $120 for six months, $222 for 12 months. Those prices come with auto-renew, which you can cancel at any time. If you don't want to worry about canceling, you can purchase the same amount of boxes for a few dollars more. (You'll see the option for non-renewing during the selection process.) Shipping is free in the US. Crates for older kids are a bit more expensive.

★ More options: We have many more favorite subscription boxes for kids if you don't think this one is right. We've tried other craft boxes, book subscriptions, and even coding kits.

For the WIRED Ones

Never know what to get your nerdy younger brother? Breo Box is a seasonal subscription box, so one comes four times per year, filled with four to eight of the latest gadgets and gizmos. It's the priciest option on this list, and your giftee may get some things they don't particularly have use for, but that's a possibility with any subscription box. This one at least gets curious hands on some cool tech.

Price breakdown: $159 per box, $579 for all four. Gift options are available too: $175 for one box, $339 for two, $479 for three, $599 for all four. (If you're going to do the last option, you'll save $20 by going the direct route and canceling auto-renew.)

Carlton Reid

David Nield

For Witches

A Goddess Provisions box gives your witchy friends five to seven products, like crystals, small notebooks, teas, and other ritual tools and decor. Everything included is vegan and cruelty-free. I subscribed for a few months and found the boxes useful for learning more about the metaphysical world, but even professionals will like a few boxes too.

Price breakdown: $33 per month, $99 for three months. Shipping is free in the US.

For Candle Lovers

Candles are great gifts for the person you know who always has one burning or for someone that you might not know very well. Boxes include one candle in 4-, 8-, or 16-ounce sizes and one extra goodie—I got car fresheners. Pick scent profiles for them or let Vellabox choose. There are premade boxes too.

Price breakdown: Vellabox starts at $18, $28, and $38 a month depending on candle size—4, 8, and 16 ounces respectively; $54, $84, and $114 for three months, $90, $150, and $204 for six months; and $144, $263, and $348 for 12 months. There are single-orders and auto-renewing options. Shipping is free in the US.

For the Cold Feet

Socks might not seem like the most exciting gift, but we could all probably use a few extra pairs. Conscious Step socks are comfortable, are crafted from organic cotton, and the designs are cute. Plus, a portion of every purchase is donated to charity—the cat and dog socks support Best Friends Animal Society, and the socks for mental health support National Alliance on Mental Illness. There are 16 causes, and each tell you where the proceeds go.

Price breakdown: Starting at $13 per month for one pair, or $26 for two if you build your own box , $12 for a pre-picked box , $78 prepaid for six months , $144 for 12 months .

For Coffee Fanatics 

There's nothing quite as nice as hearing my coffee pot sizzle from the kitchen as I'm getting up in the morning, knowing a nice warm mug is just minutes away. If your giftee is always downing caffeine, or just wants to break out of their Starbucks addiction, opt for a coffee subscription to broaden their horizons. We like Misto for gifts because there are nearly 500 types of beans to choose from.

Price breakdown: Starts at $15 per bag, $78 for six bags, $156 for 12 bags. Bags are delivered either once a week or every two, three, or four weeks. There are specific gift options available : three boxes for $60, six boxes for $120, 12 boxes for $240, plus a few specific options in between. Shipping is $5.

★ Alternative: We have many more  coffee subscription options  to choose from. If your giftee is an animal lover,  Grounds and Hounds  donates 20 percent of its profits to animal shelters.

For Tea Drinkers

If your giftee prefers tea over coffee, Sips By is an affordable and great subscription box. Each box contains four types of teas per box—about 16 cups a month. You can choose pre-bagged teas or loose leaves and filters. Plus, each box comes with information on how to properly steep each type.

If you don't want to make flavor decisions for your giftee, you can buy them a specific Sips By gift card for the number of boxes you'd have sent otherwise.

Price breakdown: $16 per month plus $4 shipping, or $48 for three months with free shipping. Gift cards are for $48 for 3 months, $96 for six, $192 for 12 months, and $384 for 24 months.

For the Wanderluster 

Traveling all over the world and learning about different cultures is a dream that's not always doable. For those who can't hop on a plane at a moment's notice, the Undiscovered Artisan Box offers a look at a specific region through handmade goodies delivered to their door. Every three months, subscribers can either choose or be surprised with five gifts that include ethically handmade home goods, jewelry, and other accessories—the Thailand box included a singing bowl, shoulder bag, and a wooden tic-tac-toe game.

The boxes are beautifully wrapped too, so it makes a great gift. Each box is curated by an artisan from the same region, and they include their favorite local recipe, which is a touch I really appreciated. Subscribers also get to access a market for discounts on additional gifts. These boxes come from the fair-trade company Novica .

Price breakdown: $60 every three months. $4 shipping added.

For the Snacker

Who among us doesn't like to snack on delicious treats all day between meetings, errands, and full meals? The Universal Yums box is our favorite snack box. There are a few sizes to choose from, and it includes food from a different country each month, plus a booklet with trivia and games on the country, so you get a little learning opportunity as well.

Price breakdown: Small boxes (five to seven snacks): $17 per month or $180 upfront for a year. Medium boxes (10 to 12 snacks): $29 per month or $312 for a year. Large boxes (15 to 18 snacks): $45 per month or $492 for a year. Shipping is free in the US.

★ More options: We also have more snack options for jerky and Japanese snack lovers, plus those who want more customizable quantities.

For the Wine Lover

I love bringing a nice bottle of wine to someone's house as a gift, and while I drink it myself, I never quite know what's good. I like a dry white wine, but from there I have no idea what to look for.

Firstleaf delivers six bottles per month. I found a few new flavors that I'll buy again and some that weren't my favorite. You'll have to take a quiz for your giftee first, but once they get their first box they can rate their wines to better craft the next one. Or you can opt for a gift card instead.

Price breakdown: Starting at $90 for a basic level, $105 for “noteworthy” wine, $120 for “world-class” wine, and $150 for fine wines. Gift options are available too: $60 for three bottles, $75 for three fine wines or a pinot noir bundle, or $220 for 12 reds.

For Cheese Heads

I often think about the line in The Devil Wears Prada where Emily talks about her insane new diet: “When I feel like I'm about to faint, I eat a cube of cheese.” I'm not on board with a starvation diet, but I am on board with eating cubes of cheese throughout the day. Snacks, meals, sides? Just say cheese.

A Curdbox subscription includes three blocks of cheese, plus three snack pairings wrapped in ice blocks to keep it all good (similar to a meal kit). Each box even includes a Spotify playlist, blog post, and wine-pairing suggestions.

Price breakdown: $75 per month, $214 for three months, $419 for six months. Gift options include three and six months for the same price, plus $825 for 12 months that don't auto-renew. Shipping is free.

For New Cooks

Figuring out meals and cooking every single night is exhausting . It can also get expensive and wasteful if you're buying ingredients that won't get used for more than one recipe. If you have a loved one who's struggling to come up with meals or is just learning how to cook, consider gifting them a few meal kits. Bonus points if it's for someone you can cook with.

Blue Apron is the simplest one we tried. There were lots of menu items to choose from each week and a few dietary options, too, like vegetarian or WW-approved meals. Nearly all meal kits have solid coupon codes available for first-time customers too. If you don't want to deal with figuring out meal plans for someone else, you could simply buy a Blue Apron gift card .

Price breakdown: Prices vary depending on serving , but for three recipes per week for two people, it costs about $77—that breaks down to $11 a serving and a $11 shipping cost.

★ Alternative: We tested a ton of other options that might appeal to your giftee more, including cheaper boxes, vegan meals, and TV dinners for picky kids. WIRED senior writer Scott Gilbertson also recommends Traegar boxes , although they aren't on a subscription. You get everything you need for a delicious meal. He says the wagyu brisket was one of the best things he's ever eaten.

For Bookworms

There is nothing quite like wandering the aisles of a book store or library, but that's not always possible in our busy lives. If someone on your gift list always has their head in a book or has mentioned they want to read more, you can sign them up for a Book of the Month subscription.

Each month there are five to seven new books to choose from. The base subscription cost covers one book, but subscribers can add additional titles. If none strike their interests or they're still reading last month's book, they can skip a box at any time.

Price breakdown: $17 per box. There are gift options too : $60 for three months, $100 for six months, $200 for 12 months.

For True Crime Fans

My partner came home with a magazine about famous murderers for me because he saw it and knew “I like that stuff.” If you, too, see murderers and think of your loved one, give them a chance to play detective for real.

Each case consists of six boxes, sent out over six months. Every month, they'll get a box with clues and case records like police statements, and they'll have to figure out just where the dots connect. You can gift them all six boxes, or one or two, and let them see if they like it enough to continue. Hunt a Killer is hard, sometimes frustrating so, but it's fun to play FBI agent. A portion of sales goes to the Cold Case Foundation .

Price breakdown: $35 per month or $165 for six months. A 12-month subscription costs $300 and is a double membership, so they'll solve two stories over the year.

★ Alternative: Hunt a Killer is fun, but expensive. The Unsolved Case Files ($27) games aren't a subscription, but they're fun to play in a night. Each box comes with everything you need to find out who the killer is.

For the Hard-to-Buy-Fors

Bespoke Post has options for everyone , but I think it's a great place to start for men who are hard to buy for. If you've ever searched for men's gifts, guides typically include stereotypical things like whiskey stones and meat. Bespoke has a lot more variation and every month includes different options.

First you'll take a short quiz for your giftee—the questions are easy enough for you to guess (would they like kitchenware, clothes, cigars?)—then each month a box is assigned based on those interests. You can view and swap boxes before it ships (or skip it for the month). You can even choose the first box and then give your giftee the login info so they can choose from there.

Price breakdown: $49 per box plus $5 shipping. If you don't want to auto-renew, a single box costs $70.

For Beauty Enthusiasts

If your giftee loves beauty products, you're in luck: There are more beauty boxes out there than would be possible to try. Laurel and Reed makes a great gift because the packaging is so nice; every box is wrapped in a bow. They usually come with three full-size products, so for the price it isn't a bad deal—the beauty world is very expensive.

Price breakdown: $55 per month, $144 for three months, $276 for six months, $527 for 12 months. $60 one-time purchase without auto-renew. $7 shipping added.

★ Alternatives: There are a ton of other beauty subscriptions we like for less. Kinder Beauty ($27) donates a portion of sales to animal rights and environmental causes. Petit Vour ($21) includes products tailored specifically to a beauty profile. Vegancuts ($28) is best for low-maintenance beauty fans. No Make No Life ($35) is a favorite of WIRED writer Louryn Strampe. It comes with Japanese and Korean beauty products. Allure's Beauty Box ($25) comes from our Condé Nast sister.

For Your Pets

If you don't gift your pet something on holidays, then we can't be friends. They're family too! Thankfully, they can also get a subscription box. We've tried Meowbox and Barkbox and loved them both for our cats and dogs .

Meowbox breakdown : For $26 every one or two months, your cat gets five or six toys and treats following cute themes. There are gift options available that don't auto-renew: $33 for one month, $87 for three months, $156 for six months.

Barkbox breakdown : For $35 a month, your dog gets a mix of six toys, treats, and chews. You could also pay $26 a month if you sign a six-month contract (you'll pay per month, not upfront like most subscriptions) or $20 a month for a 12-month contract. There are also gift options : $35 for one month, $99 for three months, $156 for six months, $264 for 12 months.

Andrew Watman

Nena Farrell

Scott Gilbertson

Louryn Strampe

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• Gifts for grown-ups

The 23 Best Retirement Gifts

By Mari Uyehara

Mari Uyehara is a writer on the gifts team. She has been writing about food, drinks, and culture for more than 15 years.

After someone has spent years in the workforce, the transition to retirement is usually filled with joy as well as a bit of uncertainty. For many retirees, it’s a time to see the world and their grandchildren, to work on home projects, and to devote more energy to their hobbies (or learn new ones). With that in mind, we’ve gathered our favorite retirement gifts to facilitate adventure, travel, and curiosity. These gifts will also help your loved one make the most of this new chapter, with plenty of fun along the way.

New Masters Academy Gift Subscription

This online art school offers phenomenal expert instruction for dedicated learners, but the vast offerings can be overwhelming for those just looking to test out a new art form.

Buying Options

The New Masters Academy Gift Subscription is not for the faint of heart. But for the retiree who has long harbored a serious interest in creative endeavors, this online art school could be just right. The highly skilled instructors offer incredible expertise, and there’s a vast expanse of rich content, broken down into 15- to 20-minute videos. Lectures can occasionally be dry or meander (just like real-world college classes!), and coursework is built in a linear fashion, so it can be difficult to skip around. For example, color theory and paint mixing are covered in oil painting but not in the watercolor class, which assumes oil painting as a prerequisite. Supervising editor Marilyn Ong found that the high-value content upped her skill set, and she found Steve Hudson’s figure-drawing class to be “perspective-shifting.”

Titleist Pro V1 Golf Balls

These golf balls from the historic Titlelist company are beloved by professional golfers and weekend warriors alike, thanks to their renowned consistency and quality control.

With balls flying into ponds, wooded thickets, and god knows where else, golfers can always use more of ’em. Here’s hoping that retirement ushers in even more time on the back nine. A fixture in PGA and LPGA tournaments, the reliable and balanced Titleist Pro V1 Golf Balls are made with a soft cast urethane elastomer cover, providing a smoother feel. Staff writer Samantha Schoech’s golf-nut stepfather is among the Pro V1’s many dedicated fans. You can also customize the balls by uploading a short congratulatory message or logo.

Travel time

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.

For many, retirement means more time to travel. Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When is organized to do just that. Arranged by month, the book maps out which destinations are best during each time of the year—for example, the Japanese Alps in January, after the holiday crowds thin, or the Galápagos Islands in July, to witness the unique courtship of blue-footed boobies. The book also uses handy infographics and icons to denote a trip’s relative value. For instance, a summer jaunt to Italy’s Alta Badia region is affordable (money-bag icon), another destination offers nature experiences (elephant icon), and still another is known for its excellent food and drink (Champagne flutes toasting).

Met Opera on Demand Gift Subscriptions

This streaming service offers more than 850 full-length, pre-recorded performances at the Metropolitan Opera—featuring star singers of past and present, from Maria Callas to J'Nai Bridges.

With high-quality videos and archival audio from the Metropolitan Opera, Met Opera on Demand Gift Subscriptions feature highly rated renditions of classics, like the 2023 rendition of Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte , as well as all-new productions, including Anthony Davis’s X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X . There are more than 850 full-length performances on offer, and they are streamable on free apps for a range of smart TVs, tablets, and phones. Although the subscription does not include live-streaming for Live in HD performances, those broadcasts are typically made available three to six months after their cinema dates.

Outdoor bucket list

Enno Vatti National Parks Scratch-Off Poster

This handsome poster of the United States’ 63 national parks—from Acadia to Zion—lets adventurers scratch off each locale they’ve visited.

Enno Vatti’s 16-by-20-inch National Parks Scratch-Off Poster reveals 63 vintage-style illustrations of the most epic natural wonders: the pink-tinged cliffs of the Grand Canyon, the verdant palms of American Samoa, and shadowy cacti in Saguaro, among them. (The National Park Service covers 425 sites—including monuments and memorials—as well as parks like Yosemite and the Grand Teton, which are contained in this poster.) For a winning pairing, give the poster alongside a National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass .

The great outdoors

National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass

Not all federal recreational sites have fees. But 109 of the top ones do, and outdoor enthusiasts who are 62 and older will appreciate this pass, which waives the $10 to $20 charges for a lifetime.

If your loved one has always dreamed of peering into the Grand Canyon or watching a geyser erupt at Yellowstone (or even if they’ve already checked it off their list), give them a National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass . With it, they can freely enter the 109 federal recreational sites that charge a daily entrance fee—usually between $10 and $35—and they can bring up to three guests with them. Most parks have accessibility considerations in place , too, so your loved one can find an experience that’s just right for them. When you present your retiree with their pass, take things a step further and help them download the free National Park Service app, one of our favorite apps for getting the most out of a park trip . This way, they’ll be ready for their trip with interactive maps, self-guided tours, lists of amenities, and more.

Best trekking poles

Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles

These basic poles provide excellent grip and have easy-to-use adjustments.

With age comes wisdom—and lived-in knees. Sturdy, steadying hiking poles are a wise choice for retirees who have a penchant for hiking (and for everyone else, too, frankly), and they’re especially useful on pebbly, leafy descents. The Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles —our top pick in the category—are made of lightweight aluminum (which can handle plenty of dings), and the EVA foam grips won’t chafe hands (as rubber ones do). Most trekking poles don’t come with rubber baskets and tips, but these poles do (so the recipient won’t have to do any additional shopping). They will be able to immediately hit the trails, with more balance and stability—and less wear and tear on their joints.

No-effort cocktails

St. Agrestis Negroni

These Brooklyn-made Negronis bring deep herbal and floral notes to the typical blend of bitter and sweet.

Although there may be more time to mix up cocktails in retirement, some retirees may prefer to just drink them instead. Our testers tried 50 pre-made cocktails , and the boozy, bitter St. Agrestis Negroni was one of their favorites. The slightly herbaceous and earthy cocktail balances the company’s Campari-like Inferno Bitter Aperitivo with a Torino-style vermouth (a regional style of the sweet fortified wine), along with Greenhook Gin. All the recipient has to do is pop and pour, and if they’re feeling fancy they can drop in an orange twist. After all, retirement is about doing less work, not more.

Putting practice

SKLZ Accelerator Pro Indoor Putting Green

This 9-foot roll-out green, with a continuous ball return, provides year-round putting practice at home.

For golfers looking to crush fellow retirees on the links—or just to improve their stats—this Indoor Putting Green makes practicing between golf-course visits a breeze, especially for those living in cooler climes. The 9-foot-long green has a continuous, automatic ball return, so the golf-loving retiree can endlessly work on their putt while also honing accuracy, alignment, and form. If the recipient doesn't have the space (or an amenable spouse) to leave it out between sessions, the green itself can be rolled up and stored in a closet, which is exactly what senior staff writer Rachel Cericola’s family does. Her husband and son have had a lot of fun with a similar version for three years and counting.

Hit the road

The Most Scenic Drives in America: 120 Spectacular Road Trips

One part inspirational photo essay, one part indispensable route map, this guidebook is a go-to resource for current and aspiring road warriors.

Lushly photographed and expertly researched, The Most Scenic Drives in America is ideal for new retirees who are ready to cruise into the non-proverbial sunset. The one drawback to the book is that it was last updated in 2012. We found the routes and primary attractions to be unchanged, however, and as a source of inspiration for amazing drives, this guide is best in class. (The recipient should of course do their own research for specifics like park and museum hours.) For each suggested destination, the book provides a predicted mileage, historical context, and un-touristy pit stops. This is an indispensable guide for almost anyone who hopes to see more of all 50 states, including Hawaii and Alaska. Don’t be discouraged if it initially lands on your favorite retiree’s coffee table—it will soon be dog-eared and sun-bleached in their passenger seat.

Point and shoot

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Our top mirrorless camera pick has a vast lens selection, built-in stabilization, and excellent autofocus, making it easy to capture great images anywhere.

For a latent photo buff who is yearning to reawaken this creative pursuit in retirement, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV —our top-pick mirrorless camera —would be an excellent motivator. A quick primer for non-photographers: Mirrorless cameras yield better images and provide more functionality than smartphone cameras, but they aren’t quite as complex as DSLRs. This Olympus model offers excellent autofocus and stellar stabilization, and due to its handy size, it isn’t too clunky to lug around on scenic hikes. If the recipient is relatively tech-savvy, they’ll also appreciate using the Wi-Fi functionality to transfer images to a phone, for easy and instant sharing. Because this Olympus camera is a substantial investment, it’s a great option for siblings or grandchildren looking to go in on a big group gift.

Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat

This breathable hat is made from UPF 50 fabric, and it has a 3-inch brim and a sweatband, so it’s a terrific option for hiking.

Yes, this hat is unassuming. And yes, it’s also essential, especially for an outdoor enthusiast (kayaker, beachgoer, forager) whose profession kept them indoors for the better part of the past few decades. The Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat is the also-great pick in our guide to sun hats for hikers , thanks to its inoffensive silhouette and supreme functionality. Due to the particularly generous band of mesh, this hat is pleasantly breathable, and its wide, firm brim stands up to powerful rays. There are two size toggles—along the crown and at the chin—so you needn’t know the recipient’s head size to nail a great fit. Intrepid travelers will also appreciate its excellent packability.

Perfect palette

Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercolors

With their unparalleled opacity, pigment, and gloss, these watercolors are the best we’ve found for all manner of amateur artists.

Painting requires patience and perspective, so it’s a wonderful pursuit to take up in one’s later years. And for artists of all skill levels, the 36-color Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercolors set is one of the best we’ve tested. Made by a 115-year-old sumi-ink manufacturer in Nara, Japan, the paints are neither as sheer as traditional watercolors nor as thick as gouache. As a result, they’re easy and satisfying to work with. The opacity, pigment, and gloss are so impressive that these paints work well even on dark paper. Complete the gift with Strathmore Watercolor Postcards and some Pentel Aquash Brush pens .

The write stuff

Pelikan Classic M205 Fountain Pen

Only a traditional fountain pen can provide such a satisfying feel. Though it isn’t cheap, it is more affordable than luxury pens with similar functionality.

May be out of stock

A nice fountain pen might be less practical than a ballpoint, but it’s far more enjoyable to wield. Wirecutter director of photography Michael Hession has been building a fountain pen collection for about five years, and he recommends the handsome Pelikan Classic M205 for journaling, sketching, and note-taking. “The feel is perfect,” he said. “It’s smooth with a hint of scratchy feedback—a good thing in my book.” Remember to include a bottle of ink because the pen uses a piston filling system and arrives empty.

A sparkly vase

MoMA Irregular Crystal Vase

This sturdy, if somewhat diminutive, lead-crystal vase elevates a single stem with a twinkly and prismatic silhouette.

By now, your retiree probably has a handle on their decor style, but the MoMA Design Store Irregular Crystal Vase brings a celebratory shine to any space, and it’s sure to become an unexpected conversation piece your loved one will treasure. This prismatic piece is made with lead-crystal glass that reflects and refracts light, so it picks up the colors around it—the recipient can experiment with placing it near colorful books or plants. Though the vase fits in the palm of one’s hand (it’s merely 3 inches tall), it’s sturdy and just the right size to liven up a desk, an end table, or a windowsill with a single bloom.

Lifetime learning

MasterClass

This ever-growing collection of digestible lessons—led by industry-spanning celebrity talent—is as edifying as it is entertaining.

For retirees who are eager to master a new skill, a subscription to MasterClass gives them access to nearly 200 virtual courses taught by experts in their fields—everything from Indian cooking with Madhur Jaffrey to ballet with Misty Copeland. Billy Collins’s poetry course is a favorite of associate staff writer Ellen Airhart; other staffers have enjoyed Yotam Ottolenghi’s Middle Eastern cooking class. MasterClass offers only one subscription plan (an annual plan), setting a rather high bar for entry; this gift lowers that bar for curious learners.

Breadwinner

Challenger Bread Pan

Though a bread-specific Dutch oven isn’t strictly necessary, this hefty lidded pan has extra features for seasoned bakers, and it reliably produces beautiful loaves.

The Challenger Bread Pan is one of our favorite tools for baking enthusiasts . Unlike a Dutch oven (a multipurpose tool that bakers often use), the Challenger pan was designed specifically with baking in mind, and it’s sure to be a hit with any bread baker who wants to up their game. This pan is made of thicker iron than you find with most Dutch ovens, so it’s better at absorbing and retaining heat. And the rectangular (rather than circular) cavity can accommodate complexly shaped loaves, such as batards, demi baguettes, and boules. As Wirecutter supervising editor Ben Keough said, “If you’re hunting for a gift that will impress a bread-obsessed friend, the Challenger delivers.”

Coffee by the month

Atlas Coffee Club

Through monthly or bimonthly subscriptions, this coffee-delivery service offers beans from around the world, working with regional farms to fine-tune the brews.

Whether they’re feeling lost without the office Keurig or they just have more time to contemplate the complex flavors of their brew, a subscription to a coffee delivery service makes a fine treat. One of our favorites, Atlas Coffee Club , can expose them to beans they’re unlikely to encounter at the grocery store, since it sources from farms across the globe. Each delivery also comes with a postcard featuring interesting tidbits about that country’s coffee industry, so the recipient can learn as they brew.

Superb cinema on demand

The Criterion Channel

True film aficionados will appreciate this ever-changing assembly of the world’s top hard-to-stream flicks.

The cinephile on your list deserves to be watching titles worthy of their newfound free time. A subscription to The Criterion Channel provides access to many of the most highly lauded films ever made. The streaming service’s collection spans over 100 years of filmmaking history, and it offers far more variety than a film aficionado could ever find on Netflix or Hulu. Criterion curates its content with flair, with groupings of films organized by guests—such as Guillermo del Toro and Mira Nair—as well as by creative themes, like “bad vacations” and “glorious food.”

A sweet watering can

Qilebi Watering Can

Our budget-pick watering can holds up to half a gallon of water, so it’s excellent for houseplant collections large or small. Plus, the removable rose accessory expands the watering options.

If your recently retired loved one has a green thumb, give them a pretty vessel for watering. The Qilebi Watering Can is one of our favorite watering cans from testing . With a half-gallon capacity and a removable pouring spout, it works both for indoor plants and outdoor gardens. The watering can has a simple design that’s cute yet unfussy, should the recipient choose to put it on display. And it comes in five cool colors, including mint and pastel pink.

Rise and shine

Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light HF3520

Our top-pick sunrise alarm has a more-realistic red-tinted simulated sunrise and sunset than others we tested. It also offers excellent standard features, such as a second alarm and power backup.

When your favorite retiree doesn’t have early-morning meetings to rush off to, they might relish a more-relaxing wake-up device. The Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light HF3520 is our favorite sunrise alarm clock , and it mimics the real thing: To gently wake someone, the light gradually grows in intensity, from a muted red glow to the bright white brilliance of a summer day. If they need a little more commotion, they can also select an FM radio station or any of five mellow sounds, such as tweeting birds or lapping waves.

DIY dessert

Cuisinart ICE-21

Our favorite ice cream maker reliably churns out rich ice cream, but the frozen-insert mechanism requires a little extra planning.

There’s nothing quite like freshly churned ice cream. Of the seven ice cream makers we’ve tested, the Cuisinart ICE-21 is our favorite. It makes consistently smooth and delicious ice cream, and the process is simple and straightforward: Just attach the frozen insert into the base, pour in the ingredients, and press the start button. In about 20 minutes, this machine makes a smooth, soft-serve-consistency ice cream (pop that in the freezer to get a more-traditional scoop). Soon your leisure-time-loving recipient will be enjoying their frozen treat (and, hopefully, sharing it with you).

A luxuriant robe

Restoration Hardware Luxury Plush Long Robe

The most sumptuous robe we tested was softer than anything else, and it was also one of the warmest. Some of our staffers have had this robe for years, so we know it lasts.

For plodding around in the morning, with no rush to put on real clothes, nothing says “I am my own boss” better than a cozy robe. Of the 39 models we tried during testing , the Restoration Hardware Luxury Plush Long Robe stood out as the most sumptuous of all. Its thick, smooth pile is similar in texture to a stuffed animal. And for us, it has stayed warm and soft, even after 10 years of wear. To make this an extra-special gift, consider adding an embroidered monogram (currently an additional $15).

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

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

Meet your guide

Mari Uyehara

Mari Uyehara is a staff writer for Wirecutter’s gifts team. She was previously an editor at GQ, Saveur, and Vice, and she won a 2019 James Beard Award for her column on American cooking in Taste. The daughter of a potter, she has long been a believer in the power of a well-made thing.

Mentioned above

• After 40 hours of testing on trails, streets, beaches, and more, we’re determined that the Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles are the best for nearly everyone. The Best Trekking Poles  
• We tried several ready-to-drink classic cocktails— margaritas, Moscow mules, and Negronis—to find the best ones for summer sipping. The Best Canned Negroni, Margarita, and Moscow Mule  
• After testing dozens of cameras over the years, we can say that the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is the best mirrorless camera for most people. The Best Mirrorless Camera  
• After research and 200 hours of field-testing, we’re convinced the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat is the best sun hat for most people. The Best Sun Hat for Hikers  
• We baked 32 loaves of bread to test the Challenger Bread Pan against the Lodge Combo Cooker. It’s a great pan, but it’s not worth the price for everybody. The Challenger Bread Pan Aced Our Bake Tests, but Most Novices Don’t Need It  
• We tested six sunrise alarm clocks to find the best models, with soothing dawn and dusk simulations, sleek designs, and a good price. Here's what we recommend. The Best Sunrise Alarm Clock  

Further reading

The 38 Best Gifts for Grandparents

by Samantha Schoech

From life-upgrade gadgets to creative ways to display family photos, the best gifts for grandparents are here.

The 30 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Kids

by Ellen Lee, Caitlin Giddings, and Wirecutter Staff

Whether you’re looking for one special gift or a project to complete together, we’ve gathered ideas to help spread the love this Valentine’s Day.

The Best High Chairs

by Jenni Gritters and Erica Pearson

Our favorite high chair is one-fifth the price of competitors—and it’s far easier to clean and use.

The Best Umbrella Stroller

by Elise Czajkowski

An umbrella stroller should be hassle-free and inexpensive enough to buy as a spare to store at Grandma’s house.

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Given the civil war in Eastern Ukraine...is it safe to be a tourist in Rostov na Donu right now?

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You should be fine. Although the city is close to the border with the Ukraine there is nothing happening there.

Have you heard of anything scary from Rostov-na-Donu?))))

What o you mean? No, it's fine as I told you, it's rural but fine)

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33 Ways to Meet Credit Card Minimum Spending Requirements

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Table of Contents

Tips to meet your minimum spend, 33 ways to meet the minimum spending requirement on a credit card, what doesn’t count towards your minimum spending requirement, final thoughts.

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Congratulations, you just got a new credit card with a great sign-up bonus ! Now, comes the important part; you need to complete your minimum spending requirement within the specified time to earn that bonus.

For some people, this is no big deal, but for many, this can be a daunting task. If your expenses are low you might be unsure of how you can meet that minimum spending requirement.

Here are 33 ways to help you meet your minimum spending requirement without buying a bunch of extra stuff you don’t need. If you are a long time cash or debit card user, some of these ways might come as a surprise to you.

Most merchants that accept credit cards do not have a minimum amount required at purchase. This means you can charge that 50 cent pack of gum if you want. You might get a sideways look from the cashier, but you will be one step closer to hitting your minimum required spend.

Some establishments have a self-imposed minimum required to use a credit card. Often, if you tell them that a credit card is the only form of payment you have, they will let you use your card. Occasionally, they might stand firm with their minimum requirement, but it can’t hurt to ask.

At service providers, like hair or nail salons, the business will have a sign indicating that tips are only accepted in cash. While it might be preferred to tip in cash, if they accept credit cards, they will accept a credit card tip. Similar to above, simply let the cashier know that all you have is a credit card, and they will often let you charge the tip to your card.

Most credit cards that come with a hefty sign-up bonus also have a minimum spending requirement that you need to complete in a certain amount of time.

The most common requirement is $3,000 in spending in the first 3 months after your account opening. So, for most cards, you will need to spend at least $1,000 per month to hit that target.

Hot Tip: As soon as you get your new credit card, double check what is required to earn the sign-up bonus. The most common amount is $3,000 in 3 months, but this can vary so be sure to check your specific card. It’s also a good idea to mark this date in your calendar so you don’t forget.

Do not wait until the last few days to hit your minimum spending. Sometimes it can take longer than expected for a charge to post, and you don’t want to lose out on your bonus because of bad timing.

Here are 32 ways to use your credit card to hit your minimum spending requirement:

1. Groceries

Groceries can be a large line item in most families’ budgets. Paying with a credit card every time you are at the grocery store is an easy way to make sure you can meet your minimum spend. Yes, charge it even if you are only running in for a loaf of bread.

If you are working on earning a sign-up bonus, consider stocking up on non-perishable items you use all the time. The USDA indicates that the average monthly cost of a family of 4 with moderate spending on groceries is $896.20. With 3 months of groceries, you’re nearly there!

Make your grocery spending even more beneficial, use a card that earns bonus points on groceries . Here are some great cards with bonuses on grocery spend:

Here’s another easy one and an expense that most people have regularly. Always charge it, and those dollars will add up to help you meet your spending requirement.

When you are not working on earning a bonus on a specific credit card, make the most of your gas purchases by using a credit card that earns bonus points at gas stations like these:

This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with  no credit score impact.

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express is a stellar cash-back credit card for those looking to maximize every purchase they make.

With bonus categories like U.S. supermarkets, select streaming services, U.S. gas stations, and transit purchases , this card rewards you for the items you spend the most on in a big way! For those looking to earn up to 6% cash-back on their purchases , this could be the card for you!

• 6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year) and on select streaming services
• 6% cash-back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• 3% cash-back on U.S. gas stations and transit (including rideshares, parking, etc.)
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It ® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred ® Card. That’s $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred ® Card. Enrollment required.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

Redeem cash-back through your American Express account

The Freedom Flex card is an excellent no-annual-fee card that still earns big with 5% cash-back on travel and other bonus categories.

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ sure does pack quite a punch — especially for a no-annual-fee card.

The Freedom Flex card is an incredible option for those looking for a well-rounded cash-back card, or a powerful point-earner when paired with a premium card in the Ultimate Rewards family.

• 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49%-29.24%.
• Powerful cash-back earner: 5% back on quarterly categories and travel purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% back on all other purchases
• No annual fee
• 3% foreign transaction fees in U.S. dollars
• Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
• 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
• 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards ® , our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
• 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• No annual fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex℠ card
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• APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49%-29.24%.
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  None

Chase Ultimate Rewards

3. Household Necessities

Need toothpaste, paper towels, and kitty litter? Charge it all.

Some store credit cards like the Target RedCard™ offer discounts when using their card. However, if you are trying to meet a minimum spend requirement, it’s advisable to put your store card away until you have earned the bonus.

4. Cable, Internet, and Phone

You can often have these things automatically deducted from a checking account, but you don’t earn any points that way. Set up all of these recurring charges on a credit card. Each month, your accounts will charge your credit card, and you will earn points.

If you spend a lot on cable, internet, or phone charges, consider a card that offers extra points for charges in these categories. The Chase Ink Business Preferred ® earns 3x Ultimate Rewards points on cable, internet, and phone services.

Hot Tip: Set up all of your recurring bills like internet, cable and phone service to automatically charge to your credit card each month. It’s just as easy as having the charges come out of your checking account, and you will be earning valuable points when you use your credit card.

5. Home Entertainment

Netflix, Hulu, HBO Go, Audible, etc. All of these things can be paid for with a credit card. If you already have automatic payments set up, move the payments to the card you are trying to earn the bonus on.

It doesn’t matter if you’re sitting down to a 4-course dinner or getting a muffin at your local coffee shop; use your credit card to pay. This category is especially easy to earn bonus points too. There are lots of credit cards that offer extra points on dining purchases.

Here are some great credit cards for earning bonus points on dining purchases :

If cash back is more your thing, there are plenty of cards that offer cash back at restaurants :

You should always use your credit card on travel. In addition to earning points, there are lots of credit cards with travel insurance coverage, or airport lounge access .

Travel is also a bonus category on lots of great credit cards so you can rack up points quickly when using your credit card for travel expenses.

Here are a few fantastic travel rewards credit cards :

8. Reimbursable Business Travel

If you travel for work, see if you are able to pay for the travel using your personal credit card and then submit the expenses for reimbursement. This is an ideal situation since you are basically earning credit card points for nothing! Even if you have a corporate credit card , you might not be required to use it. Check with your company for the specific policy.

9. Prepay on Upcoming Trips

If you like to travel, you likely have plenty of trips planned at any given point. For things like hotels or cruises , you often don’t have to pay in full at the time of booking. But, if you have a minimum spend, pre-paying for upcoming trips can be a quick way to hit that minimum.

You can also make partial payments towards your upcoming trip in whatever amount you need to hit your spending requirements.

10. Gym Memberships

Any type of gym membership, fitness classes, yoga studio, or even online fitness classes can be paid for with a credit card. You might as well get healthy while you are earning those bonus points!

The World of Hyatt credit card even offers a fitness bonus category! This card earns 2 World of Hyatt points per $1 spent on fitness clubs and gym memberships; this can include things like yoga studios and even personal trainers.

11. Kids’ Activities

If you are a parent, you know how expensive kids can be. You might as well earn some points while paying for all of their activities. You can use a credit card to pay for anything from dance, swim, or soccer classes to private school tuition or daycare.

12. Your Morning Coffee

If you stop by your local coffee shop every morning for a quick caffeine pick-me-up, be sure to pay with your credit card; even if it’s only a dollar or 2. A $2 coffee, 5 days-a-week is $40 a month towards your minimum spend. Every dollar counts!

13. Lunch at Work

Grabbing a quick sandwich between meetings? Use your credit card. If you are eating with a group, you can offer to pay for everyone’s lunch on your credit card and have them give you cash.

If you have birthdays or holidays coming up, go ahead and purchase some gifts early while you are working towards your sign-up bonus. You will earn your bonus quicker, and you will be thankful your shopping is done once that birthday or holiday rolls around.

15. Charitable Contributions

You can do good in your community or donate to a cause that’s meaningful to you with a swipe of your credit card. Not only are charitable contributions a tax deduction, but you get those points and help meet your minimum spend.

16. Home Remodeling/Landscaping

The first question you should ask anyone that you’re considering hiring for remodeling or landscaping is, “Do you take credit cards?” While you may laugh at this, most contractors and landscapers take credit cards. Those points add up and you get closer to your minimum spend.

17. Home Repairs/Handyman

If you need to hire a professional to do some work around your house, more often than not, they will take credit cards. So, next time you need a plumber, electrician, carpenter, or another service professional, be sure to ask if they take credit cards.

18. Maid Service

If you are able to enjoy the luxury of having someone else clean your home, be sure to put it on a credit card if you can.

19. Personal Care: Haircut/Massage/Manicure/Pedicure

Treat yourself to a fresh haircut, a massage, or a mani/pedi, and be sure to pay with your credit card. Often, these types of services ask for a tip in cash. However, even if they prefer a cash tip, you can ask to put it on a credit card too. More often than not, they will be happy to do it.

20. Dry Cleaning

Dry cleaning is a necessary expense for many people and can easily be charged to a credit card. Many dry cleaners are located within grocery stores and can be coded as a grocery store expense. That means you can often earn bonus points when using a credit card that earns bonus points on grocery purchases like the Amex Gold Card .

21. Gift Cards

If you are in a hurry to meet your minimum spend, avoid buying things you don’t need. Instead, you can purchase gift cards to stores you shop at often like a gift card for a grocery store. If you are going this route, try to purchase gift cards from a store that offers bonus points to maximize every dollar you spend.

If you have an Ink Business Cash ® credit card , purchase gift cards at an office supply store to earn 5% cash back. If you have an Amex Gold Card, purchase your gift cards at a U.S. supermarket to earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar.

22. Reimbursement from Friends and Family

You can offer to charge purchases for your friends and family on your credit card. Then, they can give you cash to cover their expenses. This works well if you are out at a group dinner; offer to put the charge on your card and everyone can pay you instead of having everyone pay separately.

23. Add an Authorized User

You can add an authorized user to your account who will get their own card. Then that person can charge their expenses on your card and the amount will count towards your minimum spend requirement. They can give you cash for their purchases or send a payment through a service like Venmo or PayPal.

Since you are ultimately responsible for all the charges made by your authorized user, only do this with someone you trust.

24. Utility Bills

Utility bills are something that most people pay for by check. However, you’re likely able to pay for these bills using a credit card. Sometimes there is a small fee, but if you are working towards a minimum spending requirement for a sign-up bonus, it can be worth it.

25. Plastiq

In a perfect world, everything could be paid for by a credit card. But the reality is that there are many large expenses like rent, a mortgage, and taxes that can’t be paid by credit card. Plastiq is a service that allows you to pay for these types of expenses with a credit card regardless of whether or not the vendor accepts credit cards.

There is a catch, though. Plastiq charges a service fee of up to 2.5%. However, in some situations, the bonus points earned can outweigh the fee charged by Plastiq.

Melio is a new bill pay competitor to Plastiq. Compare the range of bill pay recipients and fees to Plastiq for the best current deal.

If you are putting friends’ charges on your credit card, PayPal is an easy way for them to pay you back without having to deal with cash.

You can also send payments through PayPal via a credit card, but there are fees involved. PayPal charges a 2.9% fee plus an additional fixed fee based on the currency you are using.

It’s good to know this is an option, but it’s probably only a good idea in very specific situations.

Hot Tip: Paypal also comes in handy if you want to split a payment on a large purchase to meet more than 1 welcome bonus a single transaction.

Venmo is another easy way for friends to pay you back without having to deal with cash. You can also send payments with a credit card. This feature does charge a 3% fee so it’s not something you want to do with regularity. But, in some circumstances, it could be worth it.

29. Resell Items

If you want to get really creative, you can get into the reselling business. This involves purchasing items and reselling them on sites like eBay or Amazon . This doesn’t come without risk, though, so be sure you know what you are getting into before you get into the business of reselling and that you abide by any state laws.

30. Expenses For Your Small Business

If you run a small business, you can put business expenses on your personal credit card if you need to hit a minimum spend requirement. While this might make your accounting a bit more complicated, it can be a great way to earn a sign-up bonus quickly.

31. Car Repairs/Maintenance

It’s no fun to pay for car repairs or maintenance, but it’s a necessary expense. So, put those charges on your credit card, so at least you know you are getting closer to earning that sign-up bonus.

32. Car Wash

Dirty car? Run it through the car wash and charge it.

33. eBay Fees

If you sell items on eBay, you know that there are fees associated with selling. You can have these fees taken out of your earnings, but a better option is to opt to have those fees charged to a credit card. It only takes a minute or 2 to set up and you will be on your way to earning more points with your credit card.

There are a few types of charges that will not count toward your minimum spending requirement. These can include:

• Annual fees
• Balance transfers
• Cash advances
• Travelers checks
• Foreign currency
• Money orders
• Wire transfers or similar cash-like transactions
• Lottery tickets
• Casino gaming chips, race track wagers, or similar betting transactions
• Any checks that access your account
• Unauthorized or fraudulent charges
• Any other types of fees

As you can see, there are tons of ways to hit that minimum spend requirement on your new credit card without purchasing a bunch of stuff you don’t need.

One important thing to keep in mind is that you should not charge anything on your credit card that you can’t pay off at the end of the month. Interest charges and fees not only damage your credit score , but they offset any benefits you are getting from your points.

The information regarding the Capital One SavorOne Card Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Chase Freedom Flex℠ was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Chase Freedom ® Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding The World of Hyatt Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of the American Express ® Gold Card, click  here . For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday ® from American Express, click  here . For rates and fees of The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card, click here . For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . Information regarding the Capital One Spark Miles for Business was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does adding an authorized user count towards a minimum spending requirement.

Yes, any charges your authorized user makes will count towards your minimum spending requirement. Then your authorized user can pay you in cash or though a service like Venmo for their purchases. Since you are responsible for your authorized user’s charges, only add someone you really trust.

Does an annual fee count towards a minimum spending requirement?

No, any annual fee you may be charged for your credit card will not count towards the minimum spending requirement needed to earn a sign on bonus.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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Understand [ edit ]

This area where the East European Plain touches the Black Sea has seen habitation by civilizations stretching back to Scythian, Roman, Greek, and Ottoman times. In the 18th century, the Russian Empire started to lay a foothold by establishing outposts on this frontier, but then eventually with expansion of the empire it became more of a commerce center due to its premier trade location where the Black Sea meets the Don River. And it saw industrialization, too, causing it to draw people and become one of the largest Russian cities for a time. But it was not without adversity that it passed through the ages, as it saw incursions from the Russian Civil War, cholera epidemics, and occupation by the Germans during the Great World Wars. One of its darker moments was the execution of 30,000 Russian Jews by occupying Nazi forces at Zmievskaya Balka.

But today it is a peaceful metropolis full of green esplanades and theaters and cafes.

Do [ edit ]

• 47.20931 39.73804 1 Rostov Arena ( 2 km from the centre on the north bank, walkable via Voroshilovskiy Bridge, or take bus S1 ), ☏ +7 863 333 28 64 . Watch football at Rostov Arena, opened in 2018 to host games of the FIFA World Cup. It's home to FC Rostov, who play in the Russian Premier League (ie top tier of Russian football). The Arena, capacity 42,000, is just south of the River Don and is intended to act as the focus for south-bank city development. The football team formerly played at Olimp-2 (capacity 15,800) north-east of the centre: its future use has not been announced. ( updated Feb 2021 )
• 47.26289 39.72045 4 H2O , Prospekt Mikhaila Nagibina, 34 , ☏ +7 800 100-99-93 . daily 10:00-22:00 . This might constitute a fun waterpark because a lot of it's inside so you don't have to worry about turning purple in the inclement weather. ( updated Feb 2021 )

Eat [ edit ]

• 47.22379 39.72602 1 Shaurma Kikchak , Bol'shaya Sadovaya Ulitsa, 114 . Some tasty shawarma sandwiches here. ( updated Feb 2021 )
• 47.22733 39.71358 2 Cow Bar & Restaurant , Gazetnyy Pereulok, 84 . Bar and steakhouse, probably perfect for the carnivore. ( updated Feb 2021 )

Drink [ edit ]

• 47.22131 39.7163 1 Svoy Bar , Ulitsa Shaumyana, 73 , ☏ +7 863 279 79 02 . An eccentric little bar with neon and decorations, and next door is Baba Lyuba, Rock-n-Roll Club at 71 Ulitsa Shaumyana with live performances. ( updated Feb 2021 )

Cope [ edit ]

Consulates [ edit ], visa centers [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

• Archaeological museum-reserve "Tanais" [1]
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