travel gift keepsake

Advertisement

• Gifts for grown-ups

The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

By Samantha Schoech

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

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

Bluetooth connection

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

Buying Options

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

Anywhere outlet

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

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

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

Personal-item perfection

Away The Everywhere Bag

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

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

Artful journaling

Hand Book Paper Co. Travelogue Watercolor Journal

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

May be out of stock

Caran d'Ache Gouache Studio Set

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

Kuretake Gansai Portable Watercolor Set

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

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

Dry hair anywhere

PackTowl Personal

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

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

Noteworthy guidebooks

Herb Lester Guides

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

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

Luggage helper

Cincha Travel Belt

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

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

Penkou Portable Neck Fan

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

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

Handy sanitizer

Noshinku Hand Sanitizer

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

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

Reading light

Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light

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

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

Trip planner

Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When

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

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

Luggage tracker

Apple AirTag

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

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

Arrive refreshed

Peace Out Puffy Eyes

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

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

Safe drinking water

LifeStraw Go Series

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

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

Plane entertainment

Nanoblock Birds Rosella Collection Series Building Kit

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

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

Power on the go

TravelCard Plus

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

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

An unmissable luggage tag

Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag

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

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

Premier toiletry transport

State Bags Bensen Toiletry Kit

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

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

Small servings

Cadence Capsules

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

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

Organized packing

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

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

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

Safety socks

SockWell Men’s Lifestyle Firm Compression Socks

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

SockWell Women’s Lifestyle Firm Compression Socks

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

A hands-free journey

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

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

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

A cozy cardigan

White+Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan

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

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

Colorful little notebooks

Pantone 10 Notebooks

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

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

Armchair travel to Japan

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

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

A window out into the world

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

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

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

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

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

With clipped on-page coupon

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

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

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

Tiny white noise machine

Yogasleep Travel Mini Sound Machine

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

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

A game about the birth (and death) of words

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

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

Travel posters with classic appeal

Anderson Design Group World Travel Posters

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

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

Cutlery to go

Hydro Flask Flatware Set

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

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

A pretty passport cover

Tusk Siam Passport Cover

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

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

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

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

Meet your guide

Samantha Schoech

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

Mentioned above

• Looking for a way to connect your wireless headphones to a source that lacks Bluetooth? Use a Bluetooth transmitter like 1Mii’s ML300 or B03. The Best Bluetooth Transmitters for Home and Portable Use  
• We tested over a dozen travel plug adapters to find the best to bring on a trip overseas. Nothing can cover you everywhere, but check out these four good options. The Best Travel Plug Adapter  
• The Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag is a great bag for tech-carrying travelers to slide under an airplane seat. We also have options for other travelers. The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags  
• After 10 years of airport dashes and overhead-compartment stashes, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is still the suitcase we want to carry. The Best Carry-On Luggage  
• We spent 60 hours testing travel packable towels and we are convinced these are the best options for drying off. The Best Packable Travel Towels  
• These reading lights are bright and adjustable, so you can keep reading even if you share a bed with a light sleeper. The Best Reading Light  

Further reading

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

by Ivy Liscomb

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

The Best Underwear for Travel

by Liz Thomas

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

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

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

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

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

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products

The 29 Best Personalized Travel Gifts

From Dopp kits to ornaments, these gifts will make any avid traveler swoon.

In This Article

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure

As the holiday season approaches, the task of choosing the perfect gifts for our loved ones begins. For those with an insatiable wanderlust, the challenge lies in finding presents that not only resonate with their adventurous spirit, but also enhance their travel experiences (or make them nostalgic for those experiences while at home).

When choosing gifts for the avid traveler in your life, practicality takes center stage. Consider items that are lightweight, compact, and versatile, ensuring they seamlessly fit into a nomadic lifestyle. From durable luggage to portable charging devices, the key is to enhance their travel experience while minimizing the hassle of carrying cumbersome items. Additionally, personalized gifts add a special touch, turning a functional item into a cherished memento. Whether it's a custom map highlighting their favorite destinations or a monogrammed passport holder, these thoughtful touches show that you've taken the time to select something unique and meaningful that they can bring on their many journeys.

When your favorite traveler sees their initials on a stylish tote or a custom-designed puzzle, it not only adds a touch of sophistication but also creates a connection to their personal journey. So, as you embark on your holiday shopping adventure, consider the joy of giving one of these personalized gifts that speak to the heart of a travel enthusiast and accompany them wherever the wind next blows them.

Shinola Jewelry Traveler

Made from natural leather, this compact jewelry holder by Detroit-based brand Shinola features multiple compartments to securely organize necklaces, earrings, and rings, preventing tangles and damage during transit. With its stylish design and option for personalization, it serves as an ideal holiday gift for the avid traveler, combining practicality with a touch of luxury for those who cherish their jewelry collection while on the go. Plus, the customized monogramming is totally free.

Away The Bigger Carry-on Flex

The Bigger Carry-on Flex suitcase from Away is a sleek and durable travel companion perfect for those who love to explore the world. With its expandable interior, 360 degree spinner wheels, and built-in compression pad, it's a classic suitcase that offers both versatility and practicality for any adventure that your favorite person plans to embark on. Add a personal touch by customizing it with a slew of monogramming options, especially considering Away just launched ten new personalization colors to equal a whopping 24 total color options to choose from.

Ipsy Beauty Subscription Service

An Ipsy subscription is a monthly beauty and makeup subscription service that delivers a curated selection of personalized, usually sample-sized beauty products to your doorstep. Each month, subscribers receive a stylish glam bag of beauty items, ranging from skincare to cosmetics. For someone who loves to travel, an Ipsy subscription makes the perfect personalized holiday gift, as it ensures they have a convenient assortment of travel-sized beauty essentials for their journeys, tailored to their preferences and needs.

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

The cult-classic L.L.Bean Boat and Tote is a durable and timeless canvas tote bag renowned for its timeless style and reliability. With sturdy handles and a reinforced bottom, it is designed to withstand the rigors of travel, making it an ideal companion for those who love to explore. What sets it apart as the perfect personalized holiday gift is the option to customize it with your giftee’s initials, adding a personal touch to a practical and stylish accessory that will accompany them on all their adventures.

Valerie Constance iPad Series Keyboard Case Pale Pink

The Valerie Constance iPad case and keyboard combo is the ultimate travel companion for tech-savvy wanderers. It not only protects their iPad with a stylish touch, but it also comes with a built-in keyboard that transforms their Apple device into a portable workstation. It comes in tons of different colors, from pale pink to classic black, with the ability to add a name or initials, making it the perfect personalized holiday gift for the travel enthusiast in your life who wants to stay connected and productive on the go. So, whether they're typing up travel diaries or binge-watching their favorite shows during a layover, this case ensures they do it with flair and functionality.

Uncommon Goods Personalized Ornament

The perfect addition to an avid traveler’s holiday tree, these customizable ornaments capture the essence of globetrotting by allowing you to customize them with the maps of significant locations of your choice. Its delicate design, featuring marble and a ribbon for hanging, make it a charming addition to their travel-inspired home decor, reminding them that, no matter where they roam, home truly is where the heart is.

Cadence Build Your Flex System

This aesthetically minded collection of magnetized travel capsules by Cadence is designed to simplify the process of packing and traveling with skincare and beauty items. With its modular and flexible components — each totally customizable in terms of color and label — the collection allows your giftee to build a personalized system tailored to their unique needs. This makes it the perfect holiday gift for travel enthusiasts, as it not only ensures efficient and organized packing (with no spills) but also reflects a thoughtful and personalized approach to their wanderlust adventures.

Mark & Graham Single Travel Jewelry Watch Roll

With a compact and stylish design, this watch roll by Mark & Graham makes the perfect gift for the traveler who wants to keep their favorite timepiece safe in style. It can accommodate a single watch, securing it with a soft suede lining and a secure snap closure. As with other Mark & Graham products , the personalization option (you can add their initials) makes it an ideal holiday gift for any travel enthusiast in your life, adding a thoughtful touch to a functional and elegant accessory that ensures their cherished watch stays protected on the go.

Papier Constellation Foiled Travel Journal

These supremely aesthetic travel journals by Papier are the ideal personalized holiday gift for those in your life that want to document their wanderlust. With a huge variety of designs , they’re the must-have accessory for your travelers’ memorable journeys. Crafted with high-quality materials, each journal can be customized with the recipient's name, making it a thoughtful and unique present that reflects their individual style and passion for exploration. 

Weddingstar Custom Engraved Compact Mirror

Keep your favorite traveler from having to fix their hair or makeup using their phone camera with this sweet compact mirror. Its durable leather exterior and attractive gold engraved initials make it a thoughtful companion for anyone constantly on the go. Its convenient size also makes it a travel-friendly companion, ensuring your globetrotter friend stays polished and stylish on their adventures. 

Milk Books Milk Premium Photo Books

This custom photo book by Milk is a beautiful way for you to compile a friend or loved ones’ cherished travel memories into a high-quality, professionally bound book. With a sleek design and premium materials, it provides a luxurious and enduring showcase for their most treasured moments. For the avid traveler, gifting a totally custom photo book is a thoughtful and personal way to celebrate their adventures, offering a thoughtful keepsake that captures the essence of their favorite journeys.

Skylight The Skylight Frame

With its sleek design and user-friendly interface, this digital frame allows your loved ones to easily display and rotate their favorite travel snapshots, turning any space into a visual journey around the world. Its seamless Wi-Fi connectivity ensures that updating the frame with new adventures is a breeze, making it a thoughtful and ever-evolving gift that captures the spirit of wanderlust.

Katie Kime New York Toile Pajama Pants Set

A nice set of pajamas can make all the difference when it comes to getting a restful sleep. Keep the traveler in your life cozy at night with one of Katie Kimes’ unique pajama sets, featuring a toile print of their favorite city. From New York City to Fort Worth , Houston , Atlanta , Charleston and many others, these pajamas feature cheeky illustrations that represent each individual city to create the perfect combination of fashion and comfort. Piping details and an adjustable ribbon waist bring it all together, and you can even add your giftee's initials to the left chest pocket for an extra fee.

The Ruff Times Custom Location Water Color Painting

This hand-painted custom watercolor captures the cozy charm of a favorite bar or restaurant with an artistic flair. The artist skillfully incorporates the unique details of the chosen location, from the architecture to the surrounding ambiance, creating a personalized masterpiece. This painting makes the perfect holiday gift for a travel enthusiast, bringing back cherished memories of a beloved spot and adding a touch of wanderlust to any space. It's a thoughtful and unique way to celebrate the joy of travel and create a lasting keepsake for someone who loves exploring new places.

Tidbyt LED Display

The Tidbyt clock is not just a timepiece; it's a customizable, internet-connected display that brings a touch of personalization to any space. Imagine having your favorite travel destinations, live weather updates, and even personalized messages all beautifully showcased on a sleek, minimalist clock. For the avid traveler, the Tidbyt clock becomes a dynamic visual journey, offering a daily escape to far-off places and creating a unique, thoughtful holiday gift that adds a touch of wanderlust to every moment.

Mark & Graham Nomad Rugged Case for Airpods

Elevate your gifting game this holiday season with the Mark & Graham Nomad Rugged Case for AirPods – the ultimate accessory for the on-the-go adventurer in your life. Crafted from premium leather, this sleek case not only adds a touch of sophistication to their tech essentials but also ensures their AirPods stay protected in style. Personalize it with their initials for that extra thoughtful touch, making it the perfect travel companion for someone who's always on the move.

Pegai Toiletry Bag for Men

Every man (and person in general) who loves to travel should have a great Dopp kit, and this stylish yet functional option is just the ticket. Crafted from high-quality leather, it exudes timeless charm and only gets better with each journey. Well-designed compartments and customizable personalization options make this Dopp kit a thoughtful holiday gift, adding a touch of sophistication to his travel essentials.

Monica Vinader Locket Pendant

Crafted in gold vermeil, the Deia Locket by Monica Vinader features a delicate design in 18k gold, inspired by ancient goddesses. A free engraving option allows you to add that extra special touch, while a hinged locket opens to reveal a customizable space for a cherished photo of your giftee’s choice. The perfect personalized holiday gift for a travel enthusiast, this sweet locket allows them to carry a piece of their favorite destination, or person, close to their heart.

Cuyana Travel Beauty Roll

Crafted with a blend of elegance and practicality, this chic organizer keeps all your beauty essentials in check while on the go. Its thoughtfully designed compartments and personalized monogram option make it the perfect gift for the jet-setter who values both style and functionality, ensuring they embark on their adventures with a touch of luxury and organization.

Paravel Packing Cube Quad

This set of four packing cubes is designed to streamline the way travelers organize their belongings. Constructed from lightweight, weather-resistant nylon, they offer a perfect balance of durability and style. With customizable monogramming options, a practical item becomes a thoughtful and personalized holiday gift for the avid traveler, ensuring they can jet-set with efficiency and style. 

Olfactory NYC Pick Your Core Scent

This personalized fragrance by NYC-based brand Olfactory includes a 10ml travel-size bottle of a totally custom scent, allowing you to create a signature scent for your favorite traveler, or even create a scent based on their favorite locale. With a carefully curated selection of high-quality ingredients, it captures the essence of each individual's preferences and personality in a wearable way that really shows you know your giftee. The compact size makes it easy to carry their new scent on adventures, so that wherever they go, they can spritz on the familiar and comforting notes of their personally crafted fragrance.

Uncommon Goods Personalized Engraved Compass

What traveler doesn’t need a good compass? Even just for the whimsy of it all. This personalized engraved compass by Uncommon Goods is a heartfelt holiday gift that’s perfect for your friend with major wanderlust. Crafted with a vintage-inspired brass finish, it not only points the way, but also captures memories with a personal touch. Pick between two motifs, then engrave a special message or pick a photograph for the inner lid to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake, making it the perfect present for the travel enthusiast in your life, ensuring their journeys are guided by both direction and sentiment.

Yeti Rambler 18-ounce Water Bottle

Crafted with the adventurer in mind, this durable and highly customizable water bottle by Yeti keeps beverages at the perfect temperature for hours, whether it's piping hot coffee during chilly mountain hikes or ice-cold water on a scorching beach day. With its sleek design and the option for you to add a monogram, phrase, or custom graphics, gifting the Yeti bottle this holiday season is like giving the travel enthusiast in your life a personalized ticket to stay refreshed on all their journeys.

Prose Boar Bristle Brush

This highly coveted hairbrush by Prose is a travel essential that ensures your friend’s locks receive personalized care no matter where your journeys lead. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, each brush is tailored to the user’s unique hair needs, with options like boar bristle or nylon tufts, handle length, and finish. Plus, you can add an extra touch of personalization with a monogram on the handle, making it a truly unique and thoughtful holiday gift.

Courant Single-device Charging Tray

The Courant wireless charger tray is the ultimate blend of style and functionality, offering a sleek charging solution that effortlessly complements any space, whether your giftee is at home or a hotel. Crafted with premium materials, like linen or leather, and a minimalist design, it not only keeps their devices powered up wirelessly but also doubles as a sophisticated tray for their daily essentials. For the travel enthusiast, this charger becomes the perfect personalized holiday gift, ensuring they stay connected on the go.

Artifact Uprising Everyday Photo Puzzle

Crafted from high-quality materials and featuring your favorite travel snapshots, this puzzle transforms moments into a tactile, interactive experience. For the wanderlust-infected soul, there's no better gift—each piece becomes a passport to cherished destinations, making the Artifact Uprising Photo Puzzle the perfect personalized holiday surprise for the travel enthusiast in your life. Crafted from quality materials, it's like turning your wanderlust-filled photo album into a hands-on experience. Ideal for the friend who loves a good puzzle and has a soft spot for travel memories.

Leatherology Kessler Medium Duffle

This sophisticated Weekender Duffel Bag by Leatherology is the stylish travel companion that your giftee needs in their life. Available in a small range of classic colors, this spacious bag not only provides ample room for their essentials, but also adds a touch of timeless elegance to any adventure. The option to personalize it with debossed or handpainted initials transforms it into a thoughtful and unique holiday gift, making it the perfect choice for someone with a passion for both travel and personalized accessories.

Lingua Franca Initials Eyemask

Crafted from luxurious cashmere, this eye mask by Lingua Franca features delicately embroidered initials, adding a touch of individuality to your travel routine. Whether jet-setting across time zones or simply catching some Zs on a cozy staycation, this eye mask is the perfect personalized holiday gift for the travel enthusiast in your life, combining comfort and flair in one stylish package.

Monos Alphabet Stickers

The perfect stocking stuffer or gift addition for your favorite traveler, these alphabet stickers by Monos can be adhered to any hard top suitcase for instant personalization — helping them identify their luggage more easily at the baggage carousel and giving their suitcase a touch of monogrammed flair. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Austa Somvichian-Clausen is a travel writer and published author living in New York City. She has been covering travel and lifestyle content, including liquor, interior design, fashion, and beauty since 2017, and has written gift guides for numerous national publications. Austa thoroughly researched the best personalized gifts available for purchase and referenced T+L’s tested roundups to find quality items we’ve tried and loved. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

Protect Your Trip »

33 practical travel gifts anyone can use.

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

Practical Travel Gifts

Courtesy of Twelve South

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

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

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

Mediheal Sheet Masks

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

Price: $19.90 or less

TIGARI Passport Holder

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

Price: $9.99 or less

Etekcity Luggage Scale

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

Price: $12.62 or less

Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder

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

Price: $16.99 or less

Steeped Coffee

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

Price: From $14.95

Conair Handheld Travel Garment Steamer

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

Price: $24.99 or less

Read: Cruise Packing List Essentials

Veken Packing Cubes

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

Price: $29.99 or less

Read: The Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Magicteam Sound Machine

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

Stasher Bags

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

Price: $44.99 or less

CALPAK Tech Organizer

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

Price: $38 or less

Apple AirTag

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

Price: $28.99 or less

Belkin Apple AirTag Holder

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

Price: $12.99 or less

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow

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

Price: $49.99 or less

Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle

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

Price: $31.49 or less for 20-ounce bottle

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Happyluxe Wayfarer Travel Scarf Wrap

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

Price: $48 or less

Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack

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

Price: $60.60 or less

Read: The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Twelve South Airfly Pro Bluetooth Transmitter

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

Price: $54.99 or less

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12

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

Price: $77.35 or less

Tommy Bahama Beach Chairs 

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

Price: $89.50 or less

Halfday The Garment Duffel

Courtesy of Halfday

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

Price: $98 or less

CALPAK Car Organizer

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

Read: Road Trip Packing List Essentials

Allbirds Tree Runner

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

GetYourGuide Gift Card

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

Price: Varies

BÉIS The Weekender

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

Price: $108 or less

Read: The Best Weekender Bags for Women

RTIC Outdoors Soft Pack Cooler

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

Price: $159.99 or less

Delsey Paris Helium Aero 19-Inch Carry-On

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

Price: $179.99 or less

Airbnb Gift Card

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

State Bags Logan Suitcase

Courtesy of STATE Bags

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

Price: $225 or less

Peak Design Travel Backpack

Courtesy of Peak Design

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

Price: $299.95 or less

Monos Carry-On Plus

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

Price: $275 or less

Travelpro Expandable 21-Inch Carry-On Spinner

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

Price: $369.99 or less

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

Solgaard Carry-on Closet

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

Price: $345 or less

Cotopaxi Allpa Roller Bag

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

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

Price: $350 or less

You might also be interested in:

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

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

7 best san francisco wine tours.

John Rodwan and Marisa Méndez Aug. 20, 2024

The 6 Best Chicago Walking Tours

Holly Johnson Aug. 20, 2024

The 9 Best Mexico City Tours

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 20, 2024

Best Horseback Riding in Estes Park

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 19, 2024

The Best College Town Hotels

Rachael Hood Aug. 19, 2024

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz Aug. 19, 2024

The Best Sedona Tours

Amanda Norcross Aug. 15, 2024

The Best Grand Canyon Tours from Vegas

Taylore Fox Aug. 13, 2024

The Top Places to See Fall Foliage

Gwen Pratesi and Erin Vasta Aug. 13, 2024

11 Best Niagara Falls Tours

Amanda Norcross Aug. 12, 2024

Collect your travel memories!

1 engraved ring = 1 place you've visited

Collect engraved rings for every continent, country, state, city, mountain and national park you have visited. 

Free Shipping Worldwide

On all orders over $60.

eco-friendly

We ship in eco-friendly packaging.

65 000+ HAPPY CUSTOMERS

From over 200 countries.

We Give Back

We donate to environment-saving charities, as featured in.

• Engraved Travel Rings
• Mantra Cuffs
• Travel Charm Bracelets & Necklaces

How it works

1 - Choose your travel rings

Collect an engraved ring for every country and state you've visited.

2 - Choose your ring holder

Choose between a necklace or a keychain to carry your travel memories with you.

3 - Continue your collection

Easily add more travel rings to your keychain or necklace as you travel to more places.

The perfect gift for travelers

Vagabond Life is a unique brand for travel lovers like you! We wanted to create unique products for people who are passionate about traveling the world while being environmentally conscious.

✈ Made by globetrotters for globetrotters 

♡ French and Canadian shop

♻ Shipped in recycled, organic and eco-friendly packaging 

✿ Part of our profits are donated to wildlife and environmental organizations

♡ Every product is available in a vegan-friendly option 

Be Happy, Be Free and Travel!

- Vagabond Life

Our Mission

Every purchase helps save our beautiful planet. A portion of our profits are donated to wildlife rescue and environmental organizations, including Sea Shepherd, Rainforest Trust and Defenders of Wildlife.

WHAT YOU'RE SAYING

Such a great and unique product for travel lovers. Totally in love with my keychain ❤ 41 rings and more to come!  Shelsey K.

Glad I found this shop. Love the look of my necklace. Fast delivery and awesome customer service. Anthony S.

Bought a map necklace and a keychain with a couple of rings for my globetrotter sister. She was so happy she absolutely loved it! The super quick delivery was perfect for the occasion and the packaging is lovely and perfect to give as a gift :)  Noami L.

Follow us on Instagram

• Join our daily travel inspiration community!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter to get the latest new releases, sales and much more ...

• choosing a selection results in a full page refresh

20 Best Travel Gifts for Your Favorite Jetsetter

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

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

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

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

Pack This! Pad Packing List

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

Bluetooth Sleep Headphones

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

Expanded Adventure First Aid Kit

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

Under Seat Carry On Bag

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

Airplane Phone Holder Mount

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

Travel Cable Organizer

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

Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Box

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

Spanx AirEssentials Cocoon

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

"Adventure Awaits" Cosmetics Bag

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

Travel Size Scratchable World Map

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

Baggu Packable Sun Hat

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

Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

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

Portable Neck Fan

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

Women's Everyday Compression Socks

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

RELATED: 8 Best Compression Socks for Women

Travel Baby Bottle Warmer

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

Fold-Up Backpack

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

Carry On Suitcase

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

Travel Blanket

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

Packing Cubes

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

RELATED: The Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Allbirds Women's Tree Runners

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

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

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} The Best Gift Ideas for All Occasions

26 Best Gifts for Horse Lovers

These Trendy Gifts Will Actually Impress Teens

32 Gift Ideas for Co-Workers

The Best Small Gifts

The Most Popular Gifts of 2024

22 Best Travel Gifts for Women

Unique 25th Birthday Gift Ideas

The Best 8-Year Anniversary Gifts You Can Buy

The Best Gifts for Coffee Lovers

28 Unique 9-Year Anniversary Gifts

50 Best Kitchen Gifts for the Chefs in Your Life

Savvy Travel Advice

Ultimate Travel Gift Guide 2024: 75+ Gifts for Travelers

Last updated: July 1, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 29 Comments

Buying gifts can be difficult, so we’ve put together a travel gift guide with over 75 different gifts for travelers. We have gift ideas suitable for all budgets, travel styles, and occasions.

Laurence and I travel for a living and know a thing or two about what makes a good travel gift. We’ve also tried and tested so many travel products and services over the years that we wanted to share a list of what we think would make a good gift for a traveler.

First, we’ll go over some tips for choosing the perfect gift for the traveler on your shopping list. Remember that thoughtfulness is key!

Next we’ll share over 75 travel-related gift ideas that include everything from the typical travel pillows, luggage, and tents to things like automatic pet feeders, cocktail travel kits, and carbon offset gift cards. We have gift ideas that will suit just about any type of traveler from backpackers to campers to cruisers to luxury travelers. We also have plenty of ideas for the armchair traveler.

Our gift ideas are suitable for any budget, whether your budget is $0 or $10,000, we have you covered. The first gift idea on our list is free and the majority of the travel gifts on our list are under $50, so there are loads of ideas for those who don’t have a huge budget. But we also have plenty of ideas if you have a big budget as well!

So let’s dive in with our ultimate travel gift guide!

Table of Contents:

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Travel Gift

Before we delve into travel gift ideas, we wanted to get you thinking about what would make the perfect travel gift for your friend or loved one.

Gift giving by humans likely dates back to prehistoric times although today we have a lot more gift options than the Neanderthals. In fact, with huge shopping malls and online shopping, we are perhaps too overwhelmed with choices! If only the decision was as easy as choosing between the shiny purple rock and the tiger tooth.

We’ll go over some tips and advice to help guide you into choosing the perfect gift for the traveler in your life.

Decide on the Type of Travel Gift

It can be helpful to know what kind of gift you want to give the friend or loved one on your shopping list. Do you want it to be something practical and functional, or do you want it to be something funny that will make them laugh?

Do you want something that will inspire them to travel or something that will make their next trip more comfortable? Or do you want it to be an experience they can do on their next vacation? Or maybe a gift that will remind them of a special trip they have already taken?

Do you want it to be something that multiple people can enjoy, such as pinning locations on a map pin board, a family cooking class, or a travel-inspired film pack?

How personal do you want the gift to be? Obviously a gift given to a colleague at a work party is not likely to be as personal as the one you give your spouse on Valentine’s Day.

Do you want the gift to take them by surprise? Or do you want to give them something you know they already need or want?

Has the person already told you or hinted to what they want? If so, we’d recommend getting them something from their wish list as this research study  found that people who provide gift suggestions are happiest when they receive gifts they want.

Answering these questions can help you narrow down what kinds of things to consider.

If you really have no idea what they might want or what to get, go for something practical. Research, like this study , shows that people generally prefer gifts that are feasible and practical versus those that are fun but unpractical.

Consider the Tastes of the Traveler

What kind of person is the traveler you are buying a gift for? What kinds of things do they enjoy doing? What kind of clothes do they wear? What kind of trips do they take? Are they travel newbies or have they been traveling the world for decades?

Are they a dreamy backpacker type, a practical person who plans every minute of their itinerary, an outdoors loving camper, an environmentally conscious volunteer worker, an adventure-junky risk taker, a 5-star luxury lover? A good practical gift for an RVer would likely be very different from a good practical gift for a luxury traveler who vacations at exclusive beach resorts.

What do they do on their travels? How do they get around (bus, car, RV, plane, train, boat)? What do they enjoy doing most? Would you be more likely to see them in a museum, bungee jumping, going on a food walk, or lying on the beach?

Think about anything that is unique about them and the way they travel. Do they worry about getting robbed when they travel? Are they obsessed with coffee? Are they worried about their carbon footprint? Do they go to classical music concerts in every city they visit? Do they use guidebooks? Do they pack too much? Do they love taking photos? Do they love trying out new-fangled tech gadgets?

If you want to give someone something practical for the trip, consider how they travel and how much space they have. A family embarking on a National Parks road trip in a van may appreciate a nice cooler to keep their drinks cold, but that same gift doesn’t work for someone who normally travels by plane.

Use these things to help guide you to the right gift for the travelers on your list. Remember, the gift should be something that they’ll love, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be something you personally love.

Take Into Account the Occasion

The type of occasion may influence the type of gift you buy as most gifts are purchased to celebrate holidays, events, and rites of passage. Are you buying it for a birthday, Christmas, Mother’s Day, graduation, honeymoon, retirement party, a gap year send-off, or some other occasion?

Why are you giving the gift? It may be to show others that we are thinking of them, to show we value our relationship with them, and/or to celebrate a special moment. And sometimes we feel obligated to give gifts during a special holiday or because someone gave us one and now we are in a never-ending gift-giving cycle!

Does the size of the gift matter? Are you getting them something that will fit in a card, a stocking, or a gift box under the tree?

Will the gift be opened in public or in private? Some gifts may be more suitable for being opened in an intimate setting versus a workplace party.

Have you been given any strict budget or rules around the gift? Perhaps the gift has to be under $20 for an office party, or it has to be something vintage, handmade, or recycled for an environmentally friendly gift exchange?

If it’s a college graduation or gap year send off, consider what a young and inexperienced traveler might be needing. If it’s a retirement, consider what might be a meaningful gift for the way that person plans to travel after they retire. A honeymoon couple might appreciate a romantic or experiential gift they can do together like a cooking class, spa day, or boat trip.

Perhaps you are gifting to someone you don’t know very well like a work colleague, a church or club member, or a friend’s daughter. In such cases, if you don’t know much about someone, you might go for a less personal gift like a gift card, a popular travel book, or something universally useful.

Maximize Quality Within Your Budget

Obviously you need to take your budget into consideration when shopping for a gift. We provide price ranges for each of the suggested gift items on our list to help. I’d try to get a gift that maximizes quality within your budget.

Although it may seem better to buy a number of cheap things rather than one more expensive item, you want to make sure what you are giving is a quality item that the person is likely going to want and is going to use.

For example, a person has a gift budget of $25, wants to get something practical, and knows the person wants a new water bottle for their upcoming hiking trip. You check options and find that you can buy two inexpensive plastic water bottles for $10 each, or spend $20 for a much nicer and more stylish stainless steel bottle.

I’d recommend going with the latter. Although two gift items might sound better than one, the person is likely to appreciate the nicer bottle and it will likely be more durable and last longer.

You don’t have to have a huge budget to get a quality item, it is about choosing the right type of item. If your friend really wants a mirrorless camera, a $70 budget is not going to buy you a camera, but it will buy you a high quality camera case, strap, or bag.

Although people giving gifts worry about the cost and value of a gift, research shows that generally the receive feels no less appreciative of a $15 gift versus a $150 present if they believed the gift was thoughtful. Instead of worrying about cost, pick something you think they will want and is good value for your money.

If you have only a small budget, don’t despair. Thoughtful gifts don’t have to cost you anything but time. We provide gift ideas on what you can for free or what you can buy for very little money. This might include offering to watch your loved one’s pets, picking them up at the airport, or cooking them dinner when they return. Or maybe it’s a DIY gift like handmade luggage tags.

Consider Personalized & Custom Items

A customized or personalized gift shows obvious thoughtfulness and makes the item special and unique. You can create a completely custom item or just personalize an item with the person’s initials, a quote, or a special image.

There are an almost endless amount of items you can have personalized or customized, from luggage tags to toiletry bag to jewelry to clothing to luggage. I love buying handmade gifts on Etsy , and many of the artists can personalize items for you. For example, I have gifted three personalized toiletry bags in the past couple of years.

Just note that handmade and personalized items are going to take longer to receive than an off-the-shelf one. So not a great idea if you need the gift as soon as possible.

Be sure to order handmade and personalized items well in advance of when you need them as in our experience, they often take longer than anticipated. We’d also recommend factoring in return time just in case something needs to be fixed.

Remember that the Thought Really Does Count

You have likely heard the popular American idiom: “It is not the gift, but the thought that counts.” This is what your mother told you when your aunt gave you those ugly socks for Christmas.

But is it really true? Yes, actually, gift giving is a very symbolic thing. Giving someone a gift shows your appreciation, love, and/or respect for that person. It also conveys that you think about them and that they are included within your personal circle.

However, this does not mean just marking a date on your calendar for someone’s birthday and then shipping them the first thing you find online as their birthday present. The gift is not likely going to be perceived as being very thoughtful and it may convey a lack of care and respect for the receiver. Bad gifts can damage a relationship.

Research studies show that the most treasured and memorable gifts are those that the receiver knows that the person put some thought and effort into getting or making. People like things that show the giver’s knowledge of them. So, for instance, giving a leather purse to a vegan or earrings to someone without ear piercings shows low knowledge of that person. But giving someone tickets to their favorite rock band or buying them a much-needed new backpack shows knowledge and thoughtfulness.

People also like gifts that they know a person put effort into choosing, obtaining, saving for, and/or making. People also like things that are unique such as a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry or handmade scarf.

This research study also found that women are often better at choosing gifts than men. However, the relationship again seems to be driven by the fact that women, on average, put more thought into the gifts and perhaps had more personal knowledge of the receiver.

If you did put a lot of thought into a gift but are not sure if the giftee is going to love it or not, consider adding notes or a card saying why you chose the gift items. Tell her that the lavender candle is to remind them of the trip you took together to Provence, the camera strap is because he complained of neck pain from his camera, or that you think the scarf color will go well with her favorite travel dress.

So even if you don’t choose the perfect gift, it is the thought and effort behind it that does count the most to people. Something to keep in mind if you can’t figure out the perfect gift. Just give them something that shows how much you appreciate and know them.

The fact that you know they love travel and are looking for travel-related gifts is already a good start!

75+ Great Gifts for Travelers in 2024

We’ve put together a giant list of gift ideas for travelers that should fit any budget, travel style, and gift occasion. The cost of the suggested travel gifts range from free to $1,000+, with the majority costing less than $100 so that you can find the perfect present no matter what your budget.

We feel a gift should be special and specific to the traveler. For some of the travel gift ideas we do suggest a specific product, but for most we suggest different options. For example, there is no one-size-fits-all luggage set but we do give you recommendations and suggestions on types and specific sets and brand that might be a good fit.

We’ve listed the gift ideas in approximate order of budget, starting with items that can be purchased for under $10. However, keep in mind that you can purchase a $30 tent or a $500 tent so the order is somewhat relative, and we recommend skimming through the full list.

If you like to shop on Amazon, you can check out our curated gift list here that includes many of the items in our list that are available online via Amazon.

We’ve used many of the suggested products and services in this list, so please feel free to ask us any questions in the Comments section at the end of the post if you have any questions or want an opinion about a gift option.

Without further ado, here is our ultimate travel gift guide with over 75 gifts for travelers:

Offer to Watch House, Pets, or Children

Not all gifts cost money. Sometimes the most thoughtful thing you can do for a traveler is to offer to help them out with something while they are away. There are always plenty of things that most people worry about when they go away, and you can help offer to take care of one or more of these things while they are away.

This might be offering to water the plants, collect their mail, run an errand, check the house, watch pets, babysit children, or mow the lawn. Or maybe its a ride to and/or from the airport.

If you want to make it more gift-like, consider creating a nice voucher (you can do it for free using Adobe Spark, Canva, Microsoft Word, etc.) and getting them a card.

Price: FREE

Word Puzzle Books

Buying for a traveler who likes word puzzles and games? Consider getting them a book with crossword puzzles, word searches, and/or sudoku.

Word puzzles are great for airports, planes, trains, and so many other situations where you are sitting and waiting while traveling. Save your favorite traveler from boredom on their next trip, and give their brain a workout!

There are lots of word game puzzle books out there, including large-print versions and ones designed for kids and families.

Another option is coloring books, for adults or kids, but this means they’ll also need to pack crayons, colored pencils, or markers. You can see some travel themed coloring books here .

Price : ~ USD $6 to $15 per book

Face masks have become a daily way of life in much of the world. For travel, whilst as of 2024 most countries no longer require them, you might still want to wear one for peace of mind and to avoid getting sick.

Etsy has become one of the most popular places for buying reusable face masks, and this is where we have purchased all of our own masks. There are hundreds of sellers making masks, some of which can be personalized. You can see a very wide selection here on Etsy and even more options on Amazon .

The CDC has a great guide to choosing, wearing, and washing face masks and coverings you can read here. We personally buy handmade reusable cotton masks from Etsy that are made from double layers of cotton fabric with an extra filter pocket (we’ve been using the Filti material since April 2020 to make mask filter inserts). We’d also recommend masks with adjustable nose wires to achieve a snugger fit around the nose.

One of the issues we have with face masks when traveling is that it can be difficult to wash them every day. So traveling with a number of masks is important and also having a travel-sized bottle of detergent so I can hand wash them as we go has been important. We keep a sealable bag for dirty masks and hand wash them at every stop where they have enough time to dry.

Other great gifts you might want to put together with some face masks are filters for the masks, travel sized laundry detergent (if person is going to have to hand wash masks on trips), travel sized alcohol-based hand sanitizers (CDC recommends at least 60% alcohol), moisturizing lip balm (masks can cause dry lips), and sanitizing wipes.

Price : $3 to $10 per mask

Children’s Travel Games

Do you know someone heading off on a long road trip or a set of international flight with children? Make their lives a little easier by gifting them a game or activity the kids can play in the car or plane.

Most kids spend too much time in front of screens, so consider a game that is low-tech and interactive like the Take N Play games and this washable marker drawing set . For road trips, we really like games such as this USA license plate game , the Rubbernecker game , Mad Libs for the road, and this travel scavenger hunt game .

Just be sure to check the suggested age range for any game you buy to make sure it is suitable as some games may contain choking hazards for small children or may be too simplistic for older ones.

Price : ~ USD $5 to $22

Travel Inspired Scented Candles, Perfumes, and Soaps

Smell is one of the most powerful human senses and it is the sense most closely associated with memory. The scent of something has the ability to transport us back in time to past experiences and places, and this includes to places we’ve traveled.

If you are looking for a gift for a traveler, consider getting them something scented that will evoke past travel memories to places they enjoyed. Or take them on a sensory journey around the world to exotic places that they have yet to explore. This can be in the form of a candle, soap, perfume, body spray, beard oil, incense, etc.

Often we have specific smells associated with different locations and experiences. Lots of different scents may evoke a travel destination for someone. For example: pineapple (Hawaii), lavender (Provence), roses (Bulgaria), oranges (Seville), coconut (Caribbean), pine (Finland) frangipani (Seychelles), rosemary (Tuscany), lemongrass (Thailand), cardamom (India), tobacco (Havana), burning wood (camping), or whisky (Scotland).

A small company called Homesick makes soy candles which are supposed to smell like specific U.S. states, cities, and countries to remind people of their hometowns or places they love. For example Pennsylvania apparently smells like “ caramel, maple, buttery rum, and malty molasses balanced with dark cocoa and dry tonka bean” and India smells like “a simmering pot of curry with the ever-present scent of cardamom”.

Many of the Mer & Sea candles and other fragrance products are inspired by travel and locations, especially the seaside. They also come in really pretty jars and packaging for gift giving.

We also love these two small artisanal shops which have created handmade travel-inspired candles, perfumes, wax melts, soaps, perfume oils, and more: Wanderlust Scents  and Adventuress Soap Co . We regularly use the soy wax melts from Wanderlust Scents and the perfume oils and lip balms from Adventuress Soap Co.

These kinds of items can also make perfect inexpensive stocking stuffers or additions to a larger gift basket.

Or if you have a bigger budget, consider taking a look at the latest from the fragrance companies which usually have a travel inspired scent or two. For instance, Penhaligon’s currently has a line of 19th century Trade Route destination inspired fragrances.

Price: ~ USD $7 and up

Travel Perfume Atomizer

A travel perfume atomizer is perfect for taking your favorite fragrance on the go. A full-sized glass perfume bottle is not ideally suited for life on the road, so a travel atomizer allows you to take a smaller bottle, protect the bottle from getting broken, and are ideally leak-proof.

So perfume atomizers generally can be filled in one of two ways. The most common type, like this one , is that you attach the atomizer directly to the tube of the perfume bottle and pump it directly into the atomizer. The second type, like this one , can be filled directly by pouring, spraying, or pipetting the perfume into the atomizer, and normally come with a mini funnel and/or pipette.

I personally avoid the first type as they can waste perfume if the seal isn’t perfect and they don’t work with all perfume bottles. The second type will generally work with any type of perfume or cologne and won’t waste perfume if you do it carefully.

Be sure to check the sizes as some are very small (e.g. 3 ML) and won’t hold much perfume if someone is taking a longer trip or travels a lot.

I love my little Fragonard perfume atomizer and so far it hasn’t leaked, but I could not find it available for sale online. These make for a great inexpensive gift or stocking stuffer.

If you budget is a little higher, this more pricey set of 4 atomizers is very well reviewed. If you are in the UK or Ireland, we recommend taking a look at these well-reviewed atomizers .

Price: ~ USD $8 to $20

Luggage Scale

Know someone who tends to overpack and is always having trouble keeping their suitcases under the weight maximum for airports? They may benefit from a digital luggage scale which will allow them to easily tell how much their suitcases weigh before getting to the airport.

The great thing about a luggage scale is it keeps you from needed to unpack and repack your luggage once you are at the airport which is often stressful and a bit embarrassing, not to mention time consuming. Know what it weighs before you leave so you can ensure it fits airline guidelines before you leave home.

With many airlines imposing stricter weight requirements on luggage, a luggage scale is a handy item for frequent fliers who have to pack a lot or have to carry very heavy gear (e.g., video or photography gear).

There are a lot of digital luggage scales out there and you can find a good one for an inexpensive price, like this one , so they make a good budget-friendly travel gift.

Travel Related Coffee Mug

A coffee mug can be a great inexpensive but thoughtful gift to remind someone of their love of traveling and your love for them every morning when they drink their coffee or tea.

If you don’t see what you want you can also make your own custom mug if you prefer to add your own words and images. So the possibilities are endless.

Price : ~ USD $8 to $20

Eye Mask and Sleep Aids

For frequent fliers (and light sleepers like Jess), there are a range of products that can make for a more comfortable experience. Most important of these in our mind is a good eye mask to block out the light. This is helpful on both flights and at hotels, as well as on overnight bus or train rides.

There are a lot of eye masks out there and often it takes a few tries to find one that is best for one’s face and sleeping style. You can see reviews for lots of popular eye masks here .

One of our favorites so far are the eye masks from Manta Sleep , which Laurence loves. They are a bit pricey but they are comfortable to wear and offer complete blackout of the light without exerting any pressure on the eyes. The eye cups actually adjust so you can achieve a much better fit.

Of course, an eye mask is not the only useful sleep aid and you might consider putting together a travel sleep kit as a gift for a traveler. Another useful sleep aids is ear plugs to block out sound and I personally use these Mack’s ear plugs . Other items might include a travel pillow, a drape clip, pillow mist, and/or silk travel sleep sack.

Price: ~ USD $8 to $30

Travel Journal

If you are looking for a gift for a traveler who enjoys writing, doodling, or sketching, a travel journal would likely make a thoughtful gift. A travel journal allows them to document their travels and be able to go back and read about them years from now.

There are lots of options out there for travel journals , such as this very popular and budget-friendly Maleden refillable travel journal with a synthetic leather cover and compass design. Or consider a personalized design to make it personal with these handmade travel journals .

Lifetime Leather and Leather and Earth Co . both make some beautiful handmade leather journals that can be personalized. Bound by Hand does a lot of vegan-friendly journals.

Personally, I like a really slim book and have filled up a few of these Paperblanks journals which reproduces a 1688 binding protecting L’Office de la Semaine Sainte. These are really slim so they are not for everyone, but larger sizes are available by Paperblanks .

Things to think about are the dimensions of the journal, whether you want the pages lined or not, do you want a journal with planning or checklist pages, and how many pages it has. Will it be used for journaling only or will the recipient also likely be using it for planning, making lists, sketching, scrapbooking, etc.

If you are looking for a quality classic style writing journal there is of course the well-known Moleskine journals , but you’ll likely find better paper quality from journals such as Rhodia Webnotebooks or this one by Lemome .

If you are looking for a travel journal for a child, this notebook is one to consider.

For more tips on choosing a travel journal, you can check out our travel journal review article.

Price: ~ USD $8 to $25

Reusable Water Bottles

We think every traveler should have a high quality reusable water bottle to take with them on their travels. Having a water bottle handy keeps you hydrated, saves money on buying bottled water, and helps reduce single-use plastic waste which is bad for the environment.

There are tons of types of travel water bottles out there, from collapsible bottles for minimalist packers and campers to streamlined double-walled ones to fit into car cupholders to gallon-sized ones for those who need to carry a lot of water. There are also these popular wide-mouthed ones for those who like to add ice cubes or powder mixes.

If you are not sure what brand and are looking for a good but not too expensive reusable water bottle, then I’d suggest checking out the bottles by Nalgene . They are one of the most popular brands and have a wide range of options.

For those trying to avoid reusable plastics, we recommend getting an insulated stainless steel bottle or one of the glass water bottles with protective silicone skins.

Although tap water is safe to drink in many parts of North America and Europe, it is not safe to do so in many countries or areas of the world. So travelers and hikers may need to take a portable water filter system or purification tablets to make local water safe to drink.

Travel Wall Decals

Wall decals are great for decorating a wall and adding some personal taste to a space. Most are made of vinyl, and they are designed to affix and peel off a wall without damaging paint or a wall’s surface.

There are a lot of travel wall decals to choose from on Etsy, from world maps to travel quotes, and you can see a list here . One great thing is that you can customize wall decals so you can get a decal of your favorite travel quote, word, or destination.

We personally own a set of travel decals from Blue Design Co . Conquest Maps also makes a range of wall decals , including some that you can peel off the places you visit.

Price : ~ USD $8 to $50 per decal design

Films to Inspire Travelers

Most people enjoy watching movies, and there are many films that have inspired us to travel. Consider putting together a film pack as a gift for a travel-loving friend. These could be general travel related films or ones related to an upcoming or dream destination.

Films can be purchased in so many formats these days (e.g., DVD, Blue-Ray, digital, online rental), that they can suit almost any device.

Just a few films to give you some ideas are Midnight in Paris (Paris), Eat, Pray, Love (Italy / India / Bali), Roman Holiday (Rome), Under the Tuscan Sun (Tuscany, Italy), Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (India), Out of Africa (Kenya), The Way (Camino de Santiago), and Breakfast at Tiffany’s (New York City). Of course there are also lots of travel-related documentaries out there as well.

There are also lots of children’s films with exotic destinations such as Madagascar , Ratatouille (Paris), Lion King (Africa), Mulan (China), The Princess and the Frog (New Orleans), and Rescuers Down Under (Australia)

Of course, if the person is more into TV than films, consider getting them a collection of episodes of a travel-related show. Some ideas include Rick Steves Europe , Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown , and BBC’s Planet Earth / The Blue Planet .

Price: ~ USD $10 to $20 per film

Travel Adapter

One of the more frustrating aspects of traveling with electronic items is the wide variety of power sockets around the world. Travel adapters are a necessity for international travelers.

If your travels are mainly taking you to one country, you can get fairly inexpensive travel adapters that you put on the ends of your plugs to make them fit into the electrical outlets in that country. For instance, an American traveler to France may want to get a set of these plugs . We’d recommend packing a few for a trip.

However, if the person regularly travels to a number of different countries, then you might get them a couple of universal travel adapters like this that will work in just about any country. This is a cost-effective yet highly practical gift and is needed by all international travelers. The one we recommend includes surge protection as well as USB charging ports.

Note that a travel adapter is not the same thing as a travel voltage converter which has to do with the voltage. So for example if the person is traveling from the US, which uses a 110v power system, to Europe, where it’s 220v, they’ll have to check to make sure any electronic equipment they want to bring is compatible.

If you are not sure what kind of travel adapter you (or the gift recipient) will need, check out our guide to travel adapters . It also explains the differences between plug types and the differences between travel adapters and converters.

Price: ~ USD $10 to $20

Books to Inspire Travelers

If you are shopping for someone who loves traveling and reading, consider getting them a travel-related book. It can be a book to inspire them to travel, to learn about an upcoming destination, or a book to read during their trip. Put together a collection of books to turn it into a larger gift.

There are a lot of general travel books out there. There are books that give information about iconic destinations like National Geographic’s Destinations of a Lifetime and Patricia’s Schultz’s popular 1,000 Places to See Before you Die , inspiring and funny travelogues such as those by Bill Bryson , or books that provide tips on how to travel in a certain way such as on a budget .

If the traveler in your life has an upcoming trip planned or a dream destination, consider putting together a thoughtful book pack that includes several books that each have something to do with that destination. I love to read books about a destination before and while traveling there.

So if you know someone heading to California, perhaps buy them a collection of fiction novels set in California and a useful California guidebook.

If you are looking for travel books for children, there are also lots of kid-friendly books out there for kids of all ages.

Price: ~ USD $10 to $20 per book

Selfie Stick

To be honest, we are not big fans of the selfie stick but millions of travelers use them and they can be invaluable to a solo traveler who wants to get some photos of themselves while traveling. Also great for getting couple photos.

They are also small, cheap, and fairly easy to travel with and most can sync to your phone using Bluetooth so you don’t need to fiddle with wires.

Selfie sticks come with a number of different features these days. Before choosing a model, make sure it is compatible with the traveler’s phone’s model, operating system, and size.

Price: ~ USD $10 to $25

Luggage Tags

Luggage tags are used to include identifying information in case your luggage is lost and are much more durable and nicer looking than the paper tags provided by airlines. They are also perfect for making it easier to spot your suitcase as it comes around the luggage carousel at airports.

If you are getting someone a luggage tag as a gift, we recommend you get them a unique tag. It is easy to get a personalized or custom luggage tag made. There are tons of handmade options on Etsy that you can see here .

For privacy reasons, we recommend getting a design where the traveler’s full name and contact information is hidden inside the tag rather than displayed on the outside.

We received custom leather luggage tags as a wedding gift from a friend that includes our first names and date of our wedding. A thoughtful gift for frequent travelers.

Passport Wallet

It can be a hassle to dig in and out of your purse or suitcase for your passport, travel documents, and boarding tickets while at the airport or while traveling by train. A passport wallet can make this a lot easier by keeping all your documents together in one convenient place.

Some features to look for include a pocket big enough for a passport, ID and credit card slots, a place for boarding tickets, a place for cash, and a zipper pouch where you can store coins. Most also have RFID blocking. We recommend taking a look at this well-rated wallet .

If you are traveling as a family and want to be able to store multiple passports and identity cards together we recommend this family travel wallet which can hold several passports plus other travel documents.

If you are looking for a passport holder that can be personalized with initials, names, or quotes, there are a number of handmade and customizable ones available as well.

Microfiber Beach Towel

Traditional beach towels are often too heavy, take up too much space, and dry too slowly for traveling. If you know someone who loves to go to the beach or lay by the pool on vacation, consider getting them a microfiber beach towel.

Microfiber beach towels are thinner, more lightweight, and dry faster. They are great for people on the go. Also great for camping, hostels, and other places you may need a towel when traveling.

A couple of microfiber towels to consider are these colorful ones by Dock & Bay and these ones . These towels are not going to be as soft or thick as regular towels, but they are perfect for travel.

Travel Pillow

For travelers who have difficulty sleeping on planes, a travel pillow can be a lifesaver for long-haul flights. These can help you get to sleep, get better quality sleep, and wake up with fewer aches and pains.

There are so many travel pillows out there! There are the typical U-shapes ones, ones that allow you to lean forward and rest using the airplane tray tables, ones that go across your chest like a seatbelt, memory foam mini traditional pillows, and ones that fit like a neck brace. These all have fans and devotees and it really depends on how a person likes to sleep.

You can see a list of some of the most popular models here . It can be tricky choosing a travel pillow because often people need to try a couple of different types to find the one that works best for them. If you are not sure what kind they might like best, I’d just go with one that sounds good and is well-reviewed.

If space is a concern, as it is with many people, we recommend looking at those that inflate rather than those that are filled. This way they will take up only a small amount of additional room. Of course, the filled ones often provide more support and will be longer lasting than the inflatable ones.

Price: ~ USD $10 to $30

There are a lot of variations on the money belt out there. We can personally recommend the money belt products by Eagle Creek , which makes several money belts and other types of travel security products.

In addition to money belts, there are many other ways to keep money safe if a money belt isn’t a good fit. These include hidden pockets which fit onto belts, bra stashes , neck wallets , and this pocket and strap system that can be worn in multiple places.

Price: ~ USD $10 to $35

Travel Coffee Mug

Know a traveler who loves to take along their morning coffee? Consider getting them a quality travel coffee mug or thermos.

These spill-proof coffee thermoses are designed to be carried with one hand and to fit well in car cup holders. They keep your coffee hot longer and their reusability allows you to avoid using single-use paper and styrofoam cups.

A travel coffee mug is perfect for travelers and workers on the go, and can help save travelers money by being able to brew their own coffee in their hotel room or take along coffee from the morning hotel breakfast. No need to buy that second cup of coffee later. Perfect for road trips.

A couple of popular brands we have used are Contigo and Stanley .

Price: ~ USD $12 to $30

Travel Themed Holiday Decorations and Tree Ornaments

If it’s Christmas and the person you are shopping for likes to decorate for the holidays, then you might consider getting things like travel-themed holiday decorations, Christmas tree ornaments, stockings, candles, and other types of decor. You can see a number of ideas here on Etsy .

Christmas tree ornaments are a popular gift and some examples include these globe ornaments , these personalized suitcase ornaments , and these custom floating photo ornaments (great for displaying a special travel photo). There are also things like globe tree toppers , travel themed Christmas stockings , and map luminaries .

The great thing about the majority of the travel-themed Christmas decorations on Etsy is that they can be personalized by adding text, monogramming, adding photos, choosing colors, etc. So that you know the gift will be unique and memorable.

Price : $15 and up

Travel Guidebook

Even as travel bloggers, we still love to read a good travel guidebook as they have all the information you need in one place, are organized, and easy to take along on your travels. Many travel guidebooks these days are available in both printed from as well as in digital form, and some purchases come with both a physical and a digital versions.

A travel guidebook is a great gift for a traveler planning their next big trip, or for the armchair traveler who wants to some day travel to their dream destination. Get them one step closer with a travel guidebook.

There are lots of travel guidebook brands out there. Your choices will be narrowed down by destination and language. Each brand is a bit different, for instance some are better known for budget focus (Rough Guides and Lonely Planet) or their photography (DK Eyewitness Guides).

Lonely Planet and Fodor’s are two brands we recommend taking a look at that have English-language guides to destinations around the world. Rick Steves’ guidebooks are designed for North American travelers going to Europe. We have guidebooks from all three of these brands, and each brand has its strengths and weaknesses.

In the United States, we like to find state-specific guides written by local writers as these tend to be the best and often include smaller places and better advice than guides written by the big travel brands.

We recommend looking for a guidebook specifically focused on where you are traveling (e.g., if traveling only to Paris, buy a Paris guidebook instead of a France one) and be sure to buy the most updated version. Most guidebooks are updated every year or two.

Price: ~ USD $15 to $20

Packing Cubes

We’re not sure that anyone loves packing, but as it’s a necessity when you travel, you might as well do it right.

We find that the whole process of packing and unpacking is greatly simplified when we use packing cubes. They let us easily sort all our different items into different sections in our bags, making it easier to find things and repack.

With packing cubes, you no longer have to go hunting through your whole bag to find that one thing you suddenly need. You can just locate the correct packing cube, and know that it’s going to be in there!

Packing cubes come in a variety of sizes, making them handy for different items and different sizes of luggage. We recommend this set which have mesh windows that allow you to see what’s inside and they also come with a laundry bag. We also really like Eagle Creek brand items and they make this cube set which we can also recommend.

Jess uses a couple of smaller packing cubes plus an Eagle Creek packing folder for her main clothing items (shirts, pants, jackets).

Price: ~ USD $15 to $35 per set

Travel Sized Beauty Items

If you are buying for someone who is into skincare or cosmetics, then you might consider putting together some travel-sized items for them to pack on their next trip. Depending on their preferences and lifestyle, these could be eyeshadow, lip balm, lotion, beard oil, sheet masks, sunscreen, hairspray, lipstick, etc.

If you are not sure exactly what they might like, consider the brand Wander Beauty for a great travel-themed gift. The brand has a on-the-go travel-themed branding and packaging and most of their products are the perfect size for travel.

Wander Beauty offers both skincare items and make-up items; two of the brand’s most popular items are their Baggage Claim eye patches and their Mile High mascara . The eye patches are something that just about anyone can use regardless of their makeup or skincare preferences.

If you are looking for more sustainable beauty products for someone who wants a more minimalist routine and likes to travel light, consider the plastic-free sustainable beauty brand Axiology. You can see all their multi-use and plastic free products here .

They offer multi-sticks and balmies, all of which can be worn on the lips, cheeks, and lips. So even if you don’t know the perfect color to get, these are pretty versatile and most can be used by pretty much anyone with any skin tone. They also come in multi-pack sets which can make a nice gift.

If you are putting together a larger gift, an idea might be to get a makeup bag or toiletry bag and then fill it with a few skincare, hair, and makeup items that you think they’d love.

Price: ~ USD $10 to $50 per item

Camping Cookware

If you are buying a gift for someone who loves camping and exploring the great outdoors, then we would suggest that some camping equipment might be just the thing for them. One thing that any outdoors person needs is a good camping cookware kit or camping mess kit, which is a set of versatile cooking equipment and utensils designed for cooking outside.

This allows them to cook in almost any situation and the kits should include a number of versatile pieces, and be easy to clean and pack up. Ideally, they should take up a minimal amount of space when packed.

One good option is this very well-reviewed and budget-friendly camping cookware kit , which is a set of cooking equipment and utensils that will fill a variety of roles and includes a small stove. Or perhaps this more elaborate 4-person mess kit is well suited for families.

Price : ~ USD $15+

Travel Jewelry Organizer Bag

If you know a traveler who likes to travel with several pieces of jewelry, consider getting them a travel jewelry bag. These bags provide a cushioning to help better protect jewelry and keep it organized. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes.

Two of the most annoying things about traveling with jewelry is being able to find it quickly and keeping it from getting tangled up, but an organizer bag can help prevent these issues. Those traveling with more expensive pieces can also easily place the whole case in hotel safes to keep it safer while traveling.

I have had a silk brocade jewelry roll like this one for about 10 years which has several zippered compartments, a snap roll for rings, and folds flat. The problem is that necklaces and earrings can get tangled if not kept in the separate pockets.

If I was buying a new one I’d probably get a bag like this or like this which has special earring boards and places to hang necklaces to prevent them from getting tangled in the bag.

For those who are wanting little pockets for individual pieces to put into a larger travel or toiletry bag rather than a full-sized jewelry roll, consider these little jewelry pocket packs . These can help keep your jewelry more protected and separated when placed in another bag.

Price: ~ USD $15 to $35

Travel Scarfs with Hidden Pockets

Travel scarfs combine fashion and functionality and have hidden zippered compartments where you can store valuables, including cash, credit cards, passports, locker keys, and IDs.

These are a great security solution for those who enjoy wearing scarfs and like to travel.

Almost all these sort of scarfs are infinity scarfs because the design is best suited for the hidden pockets and to allow for the extra weight of the items being stored. There are lot of different designs and brands making these scarfs so there are a lot of choose from, and you can see a selection of them here .

For a wider list of all kinds of travel scarves, with and without hidden pockets, see our travel scarf guide .

Toiletry Bag

Almost all travelers have a toiletry bag (sometimes called a dopp kit for men) where they store all their toiletry and shaving items. Much better than throwing your toiletries in a plastic bag.

We recommend looking for a toiletry bag that has a water resistant or waterproof interior so that it can be wiped clean easily if anything spills. Some toiletry bags have hooks so they can be hung in a bathroom or shower if that is a feature you want.

A couple different bags under $20 to consider are this hanging bag and this more traditional looking toiletry bag . You can check out some of the most popular toiletry bags online here .

Recently, I bought two of these handmade leather toiletry bags on Etsy as gifts. It is a bit more expensive than many of the toiletry bags out there, but I liked that it was handmade, made in the USA, personalized with embroidered initials, and had an inner nylon liner. Laurene also has one of these leather toiletry bags and it has held up to travel very well.

If you are buying someone a toiletry bag, you may also want to fill it up with a set of travel-sized toiletry bottles (so they can fill with their own products) or with travel-sized toiletry items from brands they love.

Price: ~ USD $15 to $50

A globe is a perfect travel gift for someone who loves to travel. They are both decorative and functional, and can fit perfectly into someone’s living room or office. They are also great for kids as they are educational and inspire a bit of wanderlust and interest in geography.

There are a lot of globes out there and some are designed more for decorative purposes and some are designed more for educational purposes. They range in size from the tiny hand-sized ones to the giant floor sized models. Many have special features such as this one , which has lights which show the constellations in the evening.

Personally, I like the Replogle brand globes as they tend to be good quality for the price and most of them are made in the USA. These are a bit more expensive but tend to be of much better quality than some of the cheaper globes.

I had a globe as a child and remember spending a lot of time looking at it and spinning it to play the “where will I travel” game. Today, I still have a bit of an obsession with globes and made sure to visit the Globe Museum on our trip to Vienna .

If you have a very large budget (or just want to look at awesome globes) we recommend taking a look at Bellerby & Co Globemakers’ website . The London-based company creates custom handmade and handpainted globes, from tiny desktop globes to giant Churchill globes (50 inches in diameter). Feel free to buy one for me!

Price: ~ USD $15 and up.

Travel Jewelry

A piece of travel related jewelry is a great gift for a traveler who loves to wear jewelry. It can show off a passion for travel, remind them of a special trip, and inspire them to plan their next adventure.

There are lots of options out there for travel jewelry such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, brooches, and earrings. Remind someone of travel or a special destination. Such as this dainty airplane necklace , Pura Vida bracelet style packs , the travel-inspired fine jewelry by Cristina Ramella , or Pandora Disney charms for Disney park lovers.

Consider a personalized or custom piece which are easy to find and create on Etsy . Make your jewelry piece unique with special coordinates, initials, quotes, photos, or messages.

Travel jewelry is also not just for women, as there are plenty of rings, necklaces, arm cuffs, cuff links, and watches out there for men as well.

See our travel jewelry guide for lots of ideas on choosing the perfect piece of travel jewelry for you. We own a number of pieces and are also happy to give recommendations.

If you are buying jewelry for a frequent traveler, consider whether the item is going to be travel-friendly or not. Chunky pieces can be difficult to travel with, delicate items can break, and flashy expensive pieces can draw unwanted attention.

Price: ~ USD $15 and up

Lifestraw Water Filter

A LifeStraw personal water filter makes contaminated water drinkable by filtering out both waterborne bacteria and waterborne parasites. This allows a person to be able to safely drink from most streams, wells, ponds, etc. Each straw will filter up to 1,000 gallons (4,000 liters) of water.

Some LifeStraw filters and purification systems can also filter out chemicals, viruses, and lead.

These are perfect for anyone who likes to camp, hike, fish, boat, or do other outdoor activities where they may run out of water or need to filter available water. They are also perfect for international travelers visiting countries with questionable public water supplies and for emergency situations. They are regularly used by international aid workers and military personnel.

You can purchase the straws individually , in packs, or you can purchase a LifeStraw that is already fitted into a LifeStraw water bottle . We have a LifeStraw water bottle which has been perfect for hiking trips and are planning to get a second one for a trip to East Africa.

Price : ~ USD $20 – $60

Dual Voltage Hair Appliances

Know someone who is planning to travel internationally and needs to blow out, straighten, or curl their hair every day? You might want to find out if the hair appliances they have are dual voltage or not.

Different countries use different electrical voltages and most hair appliances are not designed to work with other voltages. If used with the wrong voltage the appliance will often stop working, short out, or even catch on fire if used with another voltage. Dual voltage products can work with both voltages.

In the United States and most of North America the standard voltage is 110V or 120V, but in Europe and much of the rest of the world the standard voltage is 220V to 230V. So if you are traveling from the United States to France, you would want a hair dryer that support 220V.

You can purchase dual voltage hair dryers , hair straighteners , and curling irons .

If you are getting someone a dual voltage hair appliance for their trip, I’d recommend first checking out what kind of brands they are currently using. For instance, if they love Conair, Chi, or Babyliss, but the product they own is not dual voltage, you can probably find a similar dual voltage model.

We personally have a Conair dual voltage travel dryer, which is a much older version of this one which must be about 20 years old now! It is small, inexpensive and works well for its size. I also have a dual voltage straightening iron but they don’t seem to make the model anymore.

One thing I like about my dual voltage flat iron is that it came with a heat resistant bag cover that allow me so pack it when it is still warm (although I wouldn’t risk it being too hot). If the hair straighter and/or curling iron you purchase does not come with one, I’d recommend getting one. It also doubles as a resting mat for the hair tool when it is hot to prevent burning surfaces when in use.

Price: ~ USD $15 to $60

Canvas Print of Travel Photos

A great gift for travel lovers is a way to help them remember some of their most memorable trips and experiences. A good way to do that is with a high quality canvas print of one or more of their favorite photos.

We take so many photos on our trips, but the reality is that we rarely see them. By giving someone a canvas print that they can hang on their wall, they’ll have a regular reminder of a trip they loved!

Canvas prints come in a wide variety of sizes, from small 8″ x 10″ all the way up to much larger prints. A lot of photography shops, drug stores, and department stores offer the option to make photo canvases. You can also see online size and price options for canvas prints here .

When choosing photos, be sure to upload the most high-resolution images you have for the best results.

Price: ~ USD $15 to $80

Travel Cord & Electronics Organizer

If you are buying a gift for someone who has a lot of devices and cords, they may appreciate an electronics organizer to keep their gear together.

Electronics organizers generally have pockets and straps to keep cords and electronics in place, and then they fold or roll and then slip into a carry-on or suitcase. They often have different pockets and compartments that hold cords, cables, chargers, batteries, dongles, adapters, stylus pens, ear buds, SD cards, hard drives, travel adapters, and other tech accessories.

For example, this well-priced electronics organizer has room for several cords, chargers, batteries, a smartphone or hard drive, and other accessories. If you are bringing along a tablet, multiple hard drives, mice, keyboard, and/or laptop you’ll likely need a larger electronics organizer. You can see a lot more options here .

If you are looking for something handcrafted and unique, then I’d check out some of the handmade electronics organizers that you can customize and personalize. These make for great gifts for tech-loving travelers.

Price: ~ USD $15 to $150

Travel Home Decor

Consider giving them something that will inspire them to travel but also something that is decorative and/or functional for their home. For instance, If they need a new shower curtain or throw pillow, consider getting them ones with a travel-related design.

The options are almost endless and could work with just about any budget. Some ideas are travel-themed artwork , shower curtains , throw pillows , duvet covers , fridge magnets , nursery decorations , jewelry dishes , or really anything else they might want or need. Most of these items can also be personalized to make them unique gifts.

See our article on travel themed home decor for a lot more gift ideas for the home.

Travel Scratch Map

A travel scratch map can be a fun way to keep track of the countries you have visited on your travels. You simply scratch off the countries you have visited and it is a fun activity for couples and families.

There are a lot of world maps, like this one , available but you can also find more detailed regional or country maps, such as large maps of just the United States and Europe .

In addition to just regular maps, there are also scratch maps focused on specific types of locations and hobbies like keeping track of U.S. National parks visited , golf courses played , and origins of craft beers .

We own both a world scratch map and have gifted a beer related map. They have been well-received. If you are giving a scratch map to someone who is likely going to want to hang it on the wall, you might also to also get them a frame as part of the gift.

Price: ~ USD $20 to $30

Carry-On Cocktail Kit

If you are searching for a gift for a person who loves a well-made classic cocktail, consider giving them a carry-on cocktail kit. These pocket-sized kits include all the ingredients (other than the alcohol) needed to create a nice handcrafted cocktail.

The best known ones are made by The Cocktail Box Co who currently creates different classic cocktail kits that you can take on the go so you can have a cocktail on an airplane, train, party, or at your hotel. So far they have released several kits, including an Old Fashioned kit and a Champagne Cocktail kit . You can also get a combo kit to try 4 or 6 different kits at once.

The travel cocktail kits come with all you need to make your drink, you just need a glass and the alcohol. Each kit makes 6 drinks. For instance, the Old Fashioned comes with bottles of aromatic, grapefruit, and orange bitters, raw cane sugar cubes, steel cocktail pics, 1 muddler spoon, and a linen cocktail napkin. Just add bourbon!

Making a few drinks for other passengers is a great way for a solo traveler to make friends during a long plane ride or train journey!

For a traveler who really loves their drinks, you might consider getting them a travel bartender kit so they have the tools need to make their favorite drinks wherever they go!

Price: ~ USD $22 and up

Eco Friendly No Waste Travel Kits

If you are buying for a gift for a traveler who wants to be more eco-conscious, you may think about getting them an eco-friendly travel kit. You can purchase an assembled kit of items, or build your own kit.

These kits usually contain several items that are eco-friendly and made of natural renewable resources. Generally, items are also vegan, plastic-free, reusable, cruelty-free (not tested on animals), and recyclable.

You can put together your own eco-friendly travel kits with some of your favorite products such as soaps, hair care items, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, reusable make up pad remover pads, cosmetics, cutlery, razors, period products, laundry soap, reusable straws, reusable face masks, reusable water bottle, etc. An eco-friendly toiletry bag or tote bag could make for a great gift bag.

Or if you don’t want to buy a bunch of individual items, you can purchase a pre-assembled travel kit. For instance, we like this popular eco-friendly kit by Battle Green which contains eco-friendly shampoo, soap, travel tins, cutlery set, wooden comb, toothbrush, and toothbrush holder.

The shop also sells a number of other eco-friendly products such as natural deodorant, cutlery, reusuable makeup remover pads, feminine hygiene products, kitchen items, and travel soaps. You can search their full product line here .

Price: ~ USD $20 to $40

Car Power Inverter

If you know someone who is going on a road trip, and who also likes to pack along electronics, they may enjoy receiving a car power inverter.

These plug into the car’s cigarette lighter and transform the electrical currents from DC to AC while the car is running. This allows you to charge devices such as laptops, e-readers, tablets, TVs, breast pump machines, DVD players, and game consoles. However, most of these are NOT designed for use with high wattage devices like hair dryers or flat irons.

We bought this model in the U.S. before our Pacific Coast Highway and Route 66 road trip , and found ourselves using it almost every day. It is one of those things we never knew we needed until we had one!

Be sure to check to make sure your purchase works for the make and model of the car being driven and converts into the correct voltage for your appliances.

Carbon Emission Offset Gifts

Know a traveler who is concerned about the environmental impact of travel and would appreciate a gift that gives back rather than a cool travel gadget? Consider donating to a worthy cause such as a carbon offset project in their name.

Travel, especially flights and cruises, has a huge carbon footprint and many travelers are concerned about the huge impact travel can have on the environment. Many travelers seek to offset their carbon footprint by investing money in ways that reduce, avoid, or remove greenhouse gas emissions (of which carbon dioxide is the biggest) from the atmosphere, or otherwise have positive environmental impacts.

There are a number of companies that allow you to purchase gift certificates for contributing to carbon offset projects and other environmentally positive projects. These include terrapass , the United Nations , and Cool Effect .

There are a number of good carbon footprint calculators that can be used to calculate one’s personal carbon footprint such as this one (global) and this one (U.S. focused) so you can be sure to give at least at the level of the carbon footprint estimated for the person’s trip.

If you think carbon offsetting is expensive, it is not. If fact, it costs very little. For example, for a round-trip 8-hour each way flight, there is about 1.32 tonnes of carbon dioxide created per person on the airplane. It costs less than USD $12 to offset this cost.

Of course if you are thinking about a gift that gives back, it doesn’t just have to be strictly related to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. There are lots of other worthy non-profit organizations that help save wildlife and forests, provide disaster relief, and provide medical treatment around the world. Some examples include the World Wildlife Fund , World Land Trust , UNICEF , the American Red Cross , and Doctors without Borders .

Just be sure to do a quick bit of research on any organization you choose to make sure it seems legitimate and that the donation actually goes towards the cause.

Price: ~ USD $20 and up

Travel Scrapbook or Photo Album

If you know a traveler into scrapbooking or who enjoys taking photos, consider getting them a scrapbook or photo album. This will allow the person to create a special book with memories of his or her trip.

Or if you went on a trip with them and have access to photos and items from the trip, you can create a special photo album or scrapbook about the trip to give to them!

A co uple of options are this multifunctional synthetic leather one and this photo album with map cover. But we recommend that you consider personalizing one if are giving it as a gift to make it extra special.

On Etsy, you can find loads of custom travel scrapbook and photo album options so you customize the album with names, initials, locations, and/or trip details. For instance, we really love the ones at The Pink Shop Crafts store , and we also like the look of this wooden scrapbook album and the ones by woodlack .

Price: ~ USD $20 to $50

Travel Router

A travel router is a wireless range extender and access point designed for people who are on the go and need to connect to the internet when they are away from home. They can make a great gift for travelers who need to be able to get online and connect multiple devices securely.

Our current recommended model for most people is the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) as its small, inexpensive, and has all the basic features. But it depends on which features are most important to you. We personally use this bigger and more advanced model by GL.iNet .

You can see our travel router guide to help choose the best model for you.

Price: ~ USD $20 to $70

Portable Aromotherapy Kits & Essential Oil Diffusers

Know someone who loves aromotheraphy and love to travel? Consider getting them an aromotherapy travel kit like this one by Scentered . The kit includes 5 different mini balms in a travel kit; the balms are solid rather than liquid so easier to travel with and use on the go.

Or perhaps consider getting them a travel-sized diffuser or cool mist humidifier. These mini gadgets can diffuse essential oils for aromatherapy, help purify hotel rooms, and put moisture into the air to prevent dry eyes and scratchy throats.

You can’t pack a full size diffuser, but there are mini ones like this one and this one that are portable and can be used for travelers. If you have a bigger budget, you might consider this mobile mini nebulizer that is wireless and requires no heat or water to run!

You might also consider also getting them a set of mini essential oils to pack with them. Just note that many users of essential oils also have strong preferences regarding brands of oils, so if they are already using essential oils, I’d try to find out what brand and scents they use to help guide your purchase.

Price: ~ USD $25+

Travel Coffee Maker

If you have a friend who isn’t functional until they’ve had their morning coffee, you might want to get him or her a travel coffee maker.

A travel coffee maker is great for being able to get a cup of coffee whenever you want it, saves money on purchasing coffee, and allows you to make coffee when camping or outdoors. Also great for those who love coffee but hate instant coffee which is often provided in hotel rooms.

Travel coffee systems vary and include French Press style ones, pour over systems, and others. Some are better for American style coffee and some are better for espresso. But you have several models out there to choose from.

The easiest design to travel with is a French Press style like this one which also doubles as a travel mug! All the users have to do is add ground coffee and hot water, and then it is good to go! This model is leak proof, easy to clean, and designed for travel.

For those who want more control over the coffee making process or who don’t like French Press coffee makers, you might consider the popular Aeropress coffee system . This travel coffee system has more parts and isn’t nearly as convenient, but gives you control over making a perfect espresso style shot or cup of coffee. The Aeropress Go is an even more portable version that comes with a mug and lid.

See our full review of the AeroPress and AeroPress Go to see which might be the best option for your gifting needs.

If you are shopping for someone who likes freshly ground coffee, you might also consider a travel coffee maker that includes a coffee grinder like this one as part of the gift. For more ideas, see our guide to the best travel coffee makers .

Price: ~ USD $25 to $45

Travel Medicine Organizer

Medical issues can be a hurdle to traveling and can be a major source of worry and travel stress . Make it easier for someone by getting them a travel organizer to help safely store their pills and medications, medical information, and medical supplies in one safe place.

We recommend getting a pill organizer like this one or this one that will hold a number of pill bottles and medicines, a pill organizer, medical documentation, and additional medical supplies. If the case doesn’t come with a locking mechanism, you can add a small luggage lock to if you want to be able to lock the case.

We always recommend keeping all important medications and medical documentation in your carry-on bag and to not pack it in checked luggage in case that luggage is delayed or lost.

If you are traveling internationally, some destinations require that pills and medications are accompanied by their prescription. This is also useful if you get stopped and need to prove that something is not illicit. So it is generally best to keep pills in their original prescription container whenever possible.

Price : ~ USD $25 to $45

Camera Strap

A camera strap is a great gift for the traveler who enjoys carrying a camera, but maybe doesn’t have a camera strap or is using one that is uncomfortable. Most cameras in our experience come with manufacturer straps that are neither attractive nor very comfortable.

The type of strap is going to depend on the size and weight of the camera. If are buying a camera strap for a smaller and more lightweight camera, you have more options. For more lightweight cameras, I have used these stylish camera straps which are designed to appeal to women and I like the look and quality of them. They are also really colorful!

However, for our heavier cameras, we use Peak Design straps which are more heavy-duty straps that are designed for heavy and bulky cameras. Laurence has found these to be the most well-designed and comfortable straps out of all the brands he has tried over the years.

The specific straps we use for the DSLRs are the Peak Design Slide straps . This strap allows us to sling our camera across our body, which is a lot more comfortable for prolonged usage, and means the camera isn’t always bumping off our chests!

You can see our full review of the Peak Design strap system here .

Looking for gifts for a photographer? Check out our guide to gifts for photographers for dozens of photography related gifts that will make any shutterbug happy!

Price: ~ USD $25 to $75

Outdoors Bluetooth Speaker

An outdoor Bluetooth speaker is great for listening to music while on the go, whether it is at the beach, car, on a boat, or next to the pool. They sync wirelessly with your phone by Bluetooth to provide louder and clearer sound.

The COMISO Bluetooth speaker is splashproof, rainproof, dustproof, and sandproof. They are lightweight and portable, making them suitable for traveling.

Note that many Bluetooth speaker models, like this one, are oftened marketed as “waterproof” but they are only water-resistant and cannot be partially or fully submerged in water. Most are not waterproof.

However, if you have a bigger budget, you can get a truly waterproof Bluetooth speaker such as the Wonderboom speaker by Ulitmate Ears, which is waterproof, dustproof, and can even float! It runs up to 13 hours on a built-in rechargeable battery.

Price: ~ USD $30 and up

Dog Travel Bag

Looking for a gift for a dog lover? Consider getting a dog travel bag that includes all the space pet owners need to store all their pet’s dog food, toys, and accessories. The bag is perfect for long trips to the park, traveling, and for dropping off the dog at the dog sitter or kennel.

This dog travel bag comes with insulated food cases, collapsible silicone food bowls, water bottle pouch, and storage for toys and leashes. It is also TSA compliant so it can be taken onto a plane. You can see many more pet bags here .

Although most are designed for dogs, these bag can also be used for those traveling with cats, rabbits, or pet pigs.

Price: ~ $30 to $60

Custom Travel Photo Blanket

If you are looking for a unique gift, consider making them a custom travel photo travel blanket that includes photos of some of their favorite travel memories.

There are a number of custom photo blanket options out there that you can customize with your own photos and get in different sizes. A couple of examples are this photo fleece blanket and this custom throw .

Be sure to check the size, and thickness, and fabric details before ordering to make sure you know what you are getting. All designers should also give you a color proof for your approval before printing to make sure the photos are arranged as you wish.

I would look for a machine washable blanket that has been printed (normally via sublimation) so that the images won’t fade, crack, or peel during washing.

Price : ~ USD $30 to $85

Travel Purse

Most women (and some men!) take a purse when they travel to keep their money, valuables, travel guides, and daily essentials handy when exploring. Although any purse can work, many people purchase a purse specifically for traveling.

We recommend a sturdy crossbody purse that is large enough to hold all the essentials but isn’t too big or flashy. We also recommend one with several compartments to keep your items organized and handy. Many travel purses contain anti-theft related features like RFID blocking, slash resistant straps, and locking compartments.

When choosing a purse as a gift, think about what the person is most likely going to put in it (e.g., does it need to fit an iPad, a guidebook, an oversized wallet, or a water bottle?) to determine the best size. The lighter the load the better for traveling.

There are travel purses designed to fit any budget and style. For a general all-round travel purse, I like this one by Peak Gear . But there are several travel brands out there specialize in travel purses or have a travel purse line including Travelon (best selling travel purse brand), Tumi (more upscale brand), and Baggalini (lots of good value options).

Pric e: ~ USD $30 and up

Travel Wrap

A travel wrap is a great versatile travel garment that can work as a shawl, scarf, or travel blanket. A good travel wrap can keep you warm as a blanket on a cold plane, cover your shoulders on a cool evening, and dress up a plain outfit.

There are a lot of different travel wraps out there in a variety of styles and fabrics. A few ones we recommend taking a look at are this USA made HappyLuxe wrap , this wool wrap , or the many travel wraps by Mer & Sea Co .

If you have a larger budget and are looking for something more luxurious, you might consider a cashmere wrap like this Ovcio wrap or this classic cashmere wrap made in Scotland .

For more suggestions, see our travel wrap guide that has tips for selecting a travel wrap that will fit just about any budget.

Travel Tripod

If you are looking for a travel-related gift for a keen photographer, consider a travel tripod. These help keep cameras steady to prevent blurry photos, help photographers take photos in low light conditions, and to do more advanced photography techniques.

Travel tripods are smaller and more lightweight than regular tripods which make them much more suitable for travel. Travel tripods come in all sizes and there are ones designed to work with all types of devices from smartphones to professional DSLR cameras.

We ourselves almost always travel with a tripod and use Vanguard VEO tripods . But there are lots of options out there to fit any budget and you can see our travel tripod guide to help you choose the best model for the person on your gift list.

Price: ~ USD $30 to $200

Knitting Travel Kits

If you know someone who enjoys knitting, consider getting them a travel knitting kit. These little kits include all the knitting essentials in a travel-sized kit.

For example this kit includes a needle gauge, stitch markers, mini scissors, U-shaped cable needle, sewing needles, and more. Another useful item might be this handy wrist bag to hold yarn for knitting on the go.

If the person is planning to fly and knit on the plane, be sure to make sure that the knitting needles and scissors are compliant with the airline’s standards to be taken in carry-on luggage.

Price: ~ USD $32 for full kit

A tent is an essential item for those who plan to camp outdoors, and is a perfect gift for someone who is looking either to start camping for the first time or is in need of a new tent.

Tents range in prices from about $40 to over $1,000 depending on size, brand, and features. But you don’t have to spend a lot to get a decent tent, especially if you just are looking for a small and simple one. This well-reviewed 2-person Coleman tent currently starts at just $50 (although price seems to fluctuate wildly)!

Although tent material is already usually water-resistant, it is recommended for most tents that a waterproof spray be applied before first use to make them more weather-resistant. This is often particularly important for the tent seam area. So you may want to buy a can or two of spray for the new owners as part of your gift.

If someone is new to camping, they probably need a lot of other camping gear as well, so if your budget is larger you might also think about getting them some other camping stuff like a sleeping bag , sleeping mat , and cooking kit .

Price: ~ USD $40 and up.

Picnic Basket

Do any of the people on your gift shopping list love picnics? Considering getting them a picnic basket to help them better transport all their food and goodies to local parks, hiking locations, campsites, or just the neighbor’s backyard.

There are of course, the more traditional basket wicker picnic basket designs like this one . But for those who often hike before a picnic, a picnic basket backpack may be a better fit as these are designed for campers and hikers.

The picnic baskets and picnic basket backpacks come with all the basic plates, silverware, and glassware and a large insulated area to store food. Most also come with extras like wine corkscrews, picnic blankets, cloth napkins, cheese boards, and dirty dish bags.

Price: ~ $40 to $100

When traveling, as well as a main bag, most travelers will also appreciate a good quality day pack. This is where they’ll put all the stuff that they take out during the day, which may include a water bottle, rainjacket, guide books, snacks, and so on. Also great for putting on for a day hike.

A day pack is also useful as a carry-on bag for flights. We like to stash all our valuables and essentials (e.g., important trip documents, medications), main electronics (e.g., laptop), and anything we need for the plane ride (e.g., travel wrap, snacks, headphones) in this bag.

We’d suggest a day pack in the region of 15L to 30L would be ideal for most travelers, depending on how big you need it to be. Just note that backpacks are often not allowed into museums or attractions and will need to be left behind or stored in a locker.

We’ve traveled with and used both Osprey and Eagle Creek daypacks and suitcases for years, and have found both brands to be reliable, quality products. Key features to look for in a daypack in our mind are multiple compartments so gear can be separated, space for a water bottle, room for a tablet or laptop, and a hip belt / sternum belt combination for extra comfort.

We’d recommend checking out the latest Osprey day pack and Eagle Creek packs . That should give you a good start to your day pack search.

Price: ~ USD $40 to $150

Map Pin Board

A map pin board is a great gift to give a traveler who loves to keep track of his or her travels. It hangs on the wall and you use pins to indicate all the places on the map that you have been (or want to visit!).

You can get boards that cover the entire world, a specific country, or a specific state. These boards are nice reminders of all your past travels and also can help you decide where to travel next. A thoughtful gift for any traveler who has some available wall space!

Although there are lots of travel pin boards out there , we can personally recommend pin boards by Conquest Maps which are handmade in the USA and made with digitally printed cotton/poly blend matte canvas stretched around am internal frame created especially for the pin boards. We have this one hanging in our apartment!

Another great option is the  Push Pin Travel Maps products which are also American-made and the framed options come with your choice of a 2-inch wooden frame. A variety of maps are available including world maps, USA maps, continent maps, U.S. state maps, and maps of other individual countries.

Just note that if you want to see finer details on a map (beyond just countries, states, major cities), you’ll want to go for the larger size map boards. Or I’d look for a pin board that just has that particular region, country, or state.

Every traveler needs luggage. If you are giving a gift to a traveler who is new to traveling, they may need a luggage set. Or a more veteran traveler may be in need of a new piece of luggage or an upgrade from a cheap set of luggage.

Luggage comes in a variety of shapes, colors, and prices. It is good to know if the traveler you are buying for is a carry-on only traveler or a person who packs multiple suitcases for a trip. Also they may have a preferences about soft luggage versus hard sided luggage which can help guide your gift selection.

If the person is a light packer or business trip taker, they are probably the carry-on only type, and I’d look for a good quality carry-on suitcase that fits their travel style.

I’d look for a 21 inch suitcase as this should fit any international baggage guidelines for a carry-ons. In the United States the standard carry-on allowance maximum is 22 inches X 14 inches X 9 inches (56 cm X 35 cm X 22 cm). We like the look of these snazzy Steve Madden carry-on bags .

If they are someone who is going to pack multiple bags, consider getting them a 2 or 3 piece matching set, such as this set by Samsonite .

Price: ~ USD $40 and up

Travel Washing Bag

If you are looking for travel gift for a traveler who goes off on extended travel and does laundry while traveling , you might consider a travel washing bag.

The Scrubba is a portable washing bag from Australia helps you get your clothes cleaner than hand washing them in the hotel or campsite sink and is great for campers and travelers.

The Scrubba is best for doing essentials and small loads of clothing and you can wash and rinse a small load in about 3 minutes. There is a flexible internal washboard that helps you get clothes cleaner than in a sink or dry bag alone.

Scrubba is the best known, but there are also a couple of competing bags out there on the market as well. We haven’t tried these but they appear to work in a similar way to the Scrubba.

Other accompanying products that you might want to add to the gift are travel-sized washing liquid , travel laundry line , and a laundry bag for dirty clothes.

Price: ~ USD $30 to $50

Travel Gift Certificate

If you are not really sure what the traveler on your gift list may want, you might consider getting them a travel related gift card or gift voucher. This allows them to spend it on travel related things like tours, activities, concerts, and hotels around the world.

Here are just a few to consider:

One great gift card to consider is a GetYourGuide certificate as they can be redeemed against any of the 30,000+ tours and activities offered on their website. They offer experiences worldwide but have a particularly large number of tours within Europe and major cities worldwide.

Tinggly gift boxes are gift certificates where the recipient can choose from the hundreds of different experiences and activities offered on that card for free. These include things like food tours, spa treatments, hot air balloon rides, and walking tours. There are cards geared to different geographical locations and types of travelers, and range in cost from USD $80 to $350.

Although better known for their wedding and honeymoon gift funds, Honeyfund also has gift cards you can purchase and use towards travel oriented purchases. They can be redeemed with over 20 brands which currently include Amazon, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Hotels.com, and Columbia Sportswear.

Price: ~ USD $50 and up

Automatic Pet Feeders

Know a traveler who is out of the house a lot and worries that their cat or dog is not getting fed on a schedule when they are traveling? Consider an automatic pet feeder. These allow you set a schedule with automatic feeding times and program the amount of food delivered at each meal time.

The two main types of automatic feeders are gravity fed and electronic ones. The gravity-fed ones don’t need a power source, but the electronic ones require an electric or a battery power source.

We recommend checking out the PetSafe automatic feeders like this one as the company has been making electronic pet products for a long time.

While these won’t replace the need to have someone check on the pets when someone is away on vacation, they can certainly make it easier for the carer and allow them to visit less frequently. These also allow you to make sure your pets are being fed the right amount of food at the same time even when you are away.

For cat owners, you might also consider a self-cleaning litter box , which makes litter box cleaning much easier for pet carers when the owners are traveling.

Price: ~ USD $60 to $200

SCOTTeVEST Vests

SCOTTeVEST is a travel clothing company which specializes in clothing that is designed to hold and organize a lot of objects without being too bulky. Their signature item is a vest and they have several designs for both men and women.

The vests are designed to hold all your valuables and handheld electronics including wallet, phone, iPod, keys, change, passport, ID documents, sunglasses, tickets, cosmetics, chargers, etc. They can even hold larger items like tablets and e-readers, travel journals, and paperback books.

In addition to vests, they also make shirts, jackets, pants, dresses, and other items. All items are designed to look nice, be durable and rugged, and have a lot of pockets. You can see more of their clothing here .

Laurence owns two of the vests, a long-sleeved shirt, and a pair of boxers from SCOTTeVEST and finds them to be well-made and lightweight with lots of pockets. Useful for going through airports and also for holding his photography gear when out shooting.

Price: ~ USD $100 to $175

Know someone who is setting off into the wide blue yonder on a classic backpacking adventure? Whether they are gap year newbies or fit silver-haired veterans, their adventure will be greatly enhanced by a nice backpack.

Backpacks allow you to travel with just one piece of luggage and not have to drag along a wheeled bag. They also allow you to easily transition from plane to city to hiking trail to campsite easily.

We’re big fans of Osprey for their backpacks, and we’ve had both backpacks and daypacks from Osprey that have lasted us for years. Osprey have a number of great backpacks, which you can see here . The Osprey Atmos in particular is a quality product that will last for many years of backpacking.

Whilst there are many backpacks available online, we would very much urge you to go shopping in person with the person you are buying the backpack for or just be sure to get one with a good return policy.

Getting the right fit for a backpack is very important, and this can really only be done in person and by testing out the backpack with some weight in it.

Price: ~ USD $70 to $300

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommended for any international traveler. However, some travelers forego travel insurance to save money or because they don’t think anything bad will happen to them. But you never know when you might get sick, injured, have a tour canceled, miss a flight, or have your luggage lost.

Travel insurance covers things like trip delays and cancellations, lost luggage, and overseas medical care. Some also include things like protection of travel gear, rental car insurance, and medical evacuation to your home country.

Giving the gift of travel insurance is a great way to help protect the health and trip costs of your favorite traveler. While you can’t purchase their policy for them, you can research an appropriate policy and get a quote so you can gift them an appropriate amount.

There is no one-policy-fits-all insurance. Some things that will affect the cost and suitability of a policy is traveler’s country of residency, age, destinations visited, and length of travel. Be sure to check carefully what is covered (and to what extent) and what is not covered.

The COVID-19 pandemic has really made the need for travel insurance clear. But it has also made it clear that a lot of policies have limitations. So do read the fine print and ask questions. The “cancel for any reason” policies tend to offer the most coverage but are also the most expensive.

We’d recommend starting with your current insurance agency and see if they offer travel insurance as you may get a better rate for an additional policy. If you don’t have an insurance company in mind, World Nomads will cover people from just about any country and trips to just about any destination. They are especially recommended for extended and long-term travels.

Price: ~ USD $0.40 to $20 per day of trip. Can vary widely.

If you have a friend who likes to stay connected as they travel, but doesn’t need a full laptop (or even a keyboard), then a tablet would make a great gift.

These devices are good for checking e-mail and keeping up to date on social media, as well as for travel tasks like researching destinations, booking accommodation and restaurants, and looking up directions. It’s also much nicer to read a book or watch a movie on a tablet than on a tiny smartphone screen.

There are a number of tablets on the market. Our advice would be to find out what sort of phone your friend has so you can get them a matching tablet as this will let them use their favorite apps across devices.

If they have an Apple phone, they would like appreciate an Apple iPad like this. If they have an Android phone, it would make more sense to get them an Android tablet like this .

If you looking for something under $100, we’d recommend taking a look at the Amazon Fire tablets .

Price: ~ USD $70 to $400

Wireless Hotspot

You can help your loved one stay in touch while they are traveling by buying or renting them a wireless hotspot. This is great for travelers heading overseas who want to stay in touch, but are worried about high data roaming fees. They allow for multiple devices to connect at once.

These pocket-sized devices can be purchased (and person pays a low data usage amount) or are available to be rented for a fixed daily rate. These devices allow people to access the Internet without having to worry about finding a free WiFi hotspot or paying data roaming fees, and can be an easy way to stay connected when traveling.

If you want to purchase a wireless hotspot device, there are a number of devices out there , and we’ve personally used hotspots from both Netgear and GlocalMe. You can see their latest hotspot models here. You can see our guide to choosing the best mobile hotspot for travel to help find the best model for you. 

Check out our article for more options for getting online when traveling if you are looking for other solutions.

Price: ~ USD $9/day (rental) or USD $75 to $200 (purchase device)

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones are perfect for any traveler who loves listening to music or watching films while traveling, or people who just need peaceful moments in noisy places. Perfect for airplanes, noisy buses, and long commutes.

Active noise-cancelling headphones have a microphone, amplifier, and speaker incorporated to also cancel the lower-frequency portions of ambient noise. Active ones generally are better at reducing noise than passive ones.

The quality and price varies widely for noise-canceling headphones from about $30 to over $500, and for a gift we’d recommend spending at least $75 or more to ensure quality. We recommended looking at options from Bose and Sony which are industry leaders in this category. If you have a larger budget, we recommend taking a look at this highly-rated pair by Bose .

Price : ~ USD $75 and up

Silk Sleep Sack

A silk sleeping bag liner or sack is a travel sheet that can be used when you don’t feel comfortable using hotel or motel sheets or when camping or staying in a hostel. It makes for a perfect camping bag liner.

Often you need to bring your own sheets when hosteling, camping, glamping, or staying in cabins. So this is a perfect fit for that and the fact that it is made of silk which is super soft and hypoallergenic, gives you that added bit of luxury.

There are a lot of sleeping bag liners and sleep sacks out there, made of a variety of fabrics, and you can see several options here which can fit just about any budget. Note that most of the less expensive “silk” options are not real silk. But we recommend this silk sleep bag if your budget is a little larger.

This works for almost any type of traveler as it can be used in any sleeping situation from a campsite to a nice hotel to a sketchy motel to an unexpected snooze in an airport. The recommended silk sleep sheet also has a built in pillowcase pouch where you can place the hotel pillow (or you own pillow).

The recommended silk sheet sack weighs less than 6 ounces and folds up into a 6 inch by 8 inch pouch. Even though it is made of silk, this one is machine washable.

Note that some sleep sacks and sleeping bag liners claim to deter or prevent bed bugs , but we do not know of any research that supports such claims. Bed bugs are highly persistent and the best prevention is to look for signs of bed bugs and not stay in a room where signs of infestation are present.

Price: ~ USD $20 to $50 for non-silk; $90 to $150 for silk

Travel Photography Course

Know a traveler who wants to improve their photography skills? Then an online photography course, local photo workshop, or how-to book would make a perfect gift.

We can specifically recommend an online course such as Laurence’s online travel photography course . It covers all the basics of photography that is perfect for those at any skill level and then goes into more advanced photography concepts and techniques. It also covers photography editing and even tips on how to sell your photos.

With over 60 lessons across 10 weeks, optional homework assignments, lifetime access, interviews with several professional photographers, we think the course is pretty amazing value for money. You can also do it at your own pace as you have lifetime access to the content.

You have direct access to Laurence for help and feedback with the homework and any other questions you have about photography. There is also an exclusive Facebook group where you can post questions and receive feedback from the other members of the course, and take part in regular fun photo challenges.

You can purchase the course for yourself or as a gift to give to someone else. Customizable gift certificates are offered for gift purchases and can be customized for the person and special occasion (e.g., Christmas, birthday, gap year, graduation, etc.).

You can learn more about it here and read testimonials from some of the over 2,000 people who have already joined the course.

Price: USD $129

Ebook E-Readers

If you are looking for something for an avid reader, consider getting them an electronic reader. Packing a large number of books can add a lot of weight to luggage, and an e-reader, a digital table designed for reading books, is a great solution for having access to lots of books and travel guidebooks without the bulk.

Kindle is the best known brand of e-reader, but there are also a variety of other ebook e-readers and tablets out there as well, and you can take a look at this list .

There are a variety of models available which offer many of the same features. The latest Kindle versions are lighter, thinner, and even waterproof (I’d read that as water resistant!)

If you are familiar with ebook readers, consider setting up the e-reader for them and downloading some ebooks you know they’ll love and some guides and helpful books related to their upcoming travels.

Price: ~ USD $90 to $200

Most people’s most treasured souvenirs from a trip are not something they purchased, but the photos they took during the vacation. Smartphone cameras keep improving, but a “real” dedicated camera can take better photos and allow for more advanced photography capabilities.

The best types of cameras for most travelers are either a compact camera, a mirrorless camera, or a sports camera. We’ll go into some thoughts about each of these types of cameras and which might make the best gift for your special traveler.

If a person you are buying for has never really used a camera before, a good-quality compact camera , or point-and-shoot camera, may make a perfect gift. The pros of a compact camera are they are small, lightweight, easy to travel with, and fairly easy to use. The downside is they give you less control and may not perform well in certain situations. Perfect for those who want something that can fit into a pocket or purse.

If you are buying a travel gift for someone who is more keen on photography and does have some photography experience, then you might look at a mirrorless camera. Mirrorless cameras come with interchangeable lenses and offer more features and versatility than compact cameras. Although heavier than compact cameras, they are often smaller and less heavy than DSLR cameras .

If the traveler you are buying for is a bit of a daredevil and adventurer, you might consider an action camera or sports camera instead. These are similar in capabilities to a compact camera, but are designed for sports, action, and are normally water-resistant or waterproof.

Action cameras are small, durable, and built to withstand elements such as dust, water, and some bumps and bruises so are great for the more outdoorsy and adventurous travelers. The best known type of these cameras is the GoPro series .

You can read our travel camera guide for even more options. We also have guides to the best compact cameras for travel , best action cameras , best bridge cameras , best mirrorless cameras , and best DSLR cameras . Have a question about choosing a travel camera or travel camera accessory, feel free to ask us as we have a lot of experience buying and recommending cameras to people of all skill levels.

Price: ~ USD $125 and up.

Give them a Weekend Getaway

Know someone who could use a weekend getaway but maybe can’t afford it or doesn’t have the time to plan because of personal or work related responsibilities? Plan and book a weekend getaway for them, so all they have to do is pack something and go. It’ll be a thoughtful gift and experience they’ll always remember.

This might be a getaway with you, a solo getaway, or one you help organize with their partner or family. It could be a weekend spa getaway, a family beach vacation, an all-inclusive cruise or tour, or a fun city break. Or maybe its just a hotel stay in your own city for needed time away from the house and daily routine.

It helps of course if you are close to the person and know their day-to-day schedule and availability. But if you don’t, perhaps get in touch with someone who would know this such as a spouse, parent, or best friend and enlist their help.

Price: ~ USD $150 and up

Home Security Camera System

If you know someone who travels regularly, one thing that they might love is a networked home security camera system. These devices will let them keep an eye on their home (or their pets!) when they’re away from home, and they can be configured in a variety of ways.

Lots of different systems are available , but we recommend the Netgear Arlo range, which have been around for a while now and we’ve used in the past. Another popular option is the Ring home security system .

Versions are available for indoor and outdoor use, as well as with night vision capabilities and 2-way audio. Most send you an email or text alert when motion is detected. Many are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Echo Show, Fire TV, Google Assistant, etc.

You can see what’s going on and control the cameras with a smartphone app, tablet, or computer, making these cameras an excellent option for peace of mind when you are on the go.

Cruise Tickets

If you know someone who is looking for a fun trip where they’ll be able to experience new destinations without the hassle of having to pack and repack on a regular basis, a cruise might be just the gift for them. Whether it is a weekend party cruise or a 3 week expedition cruise to Antarctica, you’ll likely find something to suit their taste.

Cruises are available at a wide range of price points, and cover a huge variety of destinations and travel styles. There’s everything from luxury river cruises to transatlantic cruises to family-friendly cruises . There are even expedition cruises to some of the more far flung corners of the globe.

There are hundreds of cruise companies out there, and it will depend on what kind of cruise you are after. We have booked most of our cruises from a Carnival weekend cruise to Mexico to our Cunard Queen Mary transatlantic cruise ( where we got married !) via Priceline.com as they often have special deals and offers, and we have found their phone and online customer support to be good.

Price: ~ USD $150 and up.

Round Trip Plane Tickets

Perhaps there is nothing more romantic and exciting than receiving round-trip airline tickets to some exotic destination!

Of course, you may not know the dates, times, and passport details necessary to book tickets for someone else, so you are probably better off giving them a card with the money, check, or gift card they can use towards the purchase of the flights.

If you know which airline they like to fly, some airlines including United Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines offer gift credit or gift cards that you can purchase.

Also if the traveler on your gift list has an airline miles account, most airline miles programs allow you to gift miles to another account. So that is another option. Just be sure to check any expiration or exclusion details.

Price: ~ USD $200 and up

Flytographer Photographer

Give the gift of lasting memories by hiring a professional local photographer to take photos of your loved one on their next holiday. 

It is difficult to take good photos of yourself if traveling solo, take good couples photos while traveling , or get those perfect family photos on the road, and the best way to get great photos is a professional photographer.

You can, of course, hire a specific local photographer for them, but an easier solution is to give them a gift card for a service, such as Flytographer, that specializes in pairing travelers with photographers in over 200 cities around the world.

You can get a discount on your first Flytographer shoot by signing up here .

Price: ~ USD $250 and up

If you know someone who is into photography or making videos and is maybe looking for a new way to capture images, a drone makes for a fantastic gift.

There are a number of drone options out there. In terms of brands, we can recommend the DJI line of drones which make some of the best drones out there. The DJI Mini  is a great portable starting drone option and is really lightweight. We personally have a DJI Mavic 2 (more recent version is the Mavic 3 ) but it is too bulky for the average traveler.

Or if you know a traveler with a drone, you might consider getting them some cool accessories. You can see our drone accessories guide here.

Just note that there are a lot of restrictions related to drones and travel, and it can be difficult to travel with drones to certain countries. They are also not permitted in places like in U.S. National Parks or near airports. So you’ll want to do your research before packing a drone for a trip.

Price: ~ USD $400 and up

Space Camp is an educational camp which provides a fun interactive learning experience that is based on the training that U.S. astronauts receive when going into Space. It is operated and located at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center . There are also special programs that focus on things like robotics, cyber technologies, and aviation.

The majority of attendees are children who attend as part of a school or club groups, but Space Camp is also open to adults and families. The standard program is 6 days for children or a weekend or 3-day programs for families and the Adults only program.

A trip to Space Camp has been on Laurence’s bucket list ever since he saw the 1980’s Space Camp movie. We were finally able to make that happen on a trip to Huntsville Alabama , and you can read all about our experience visiting Space Camp .

If you want to give Space Camp as a surprise gift but not sure of what dates would work, you can create a registration and instead of picking a date, you will select ‘choose your dates later’.  The person who receives the gift can then call later and schedule the dates they would like to attend.

There are also space-related camp programs that are now offered in other parts of the world as well, including Florida, Norway, and Russia. These are not exactly the same thing, but may be a good alternative for those living closer to these locations.

We think that a trip to Space Camp would be the most amazing gift for anyone interested in space, no matter their age!

Price: USD $499 and up per attendee

Travel Laptop

Travel is often a time we want to get away from everything, but this isn’t always possible. For longer trips, or for folks who just take their jobs on the road (like us!), a travel laptop is a necessity rather than a luxury.

There’s a huge range of travel laptops to choose from. Our suggestion would be to go for something that is very portable and has good battery life, but is still powerful enough to do everything you need to do when traveling.

Some good lightweight traditional laptops are the Dell XPS 13 series for Windows users and the Macbook Air series for Apple users.

If you like the idea of something that can be used as a laptop or a tablet, one of the best options is the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 (try the older Pro 6 or 7 versions if you have a smaller budget), which is a very portable laptop. It has both stylus support and a detachable keyboard (both sold separately ).This makes it great for use as a tablet for watching movies, and the keyboard can be added for writing e-mails or other word-processing tasks.

If you are buying a gift for someone who is likely to do things that requires a more powerful laptop, like photo editing, video editing, or gaming, see our guide to the best laptops for photo editing to get some ideas of what is available.

Price : ~ USD $750 and up.

Travel Related DIY Gift

As noted, a travel gift doesn’t have to cost money. Consider giving them something thoughtful that you made yourself.

Do you knit, do crafting, woodworking, or make candles? Some examples could be a travel themed charm bracelet, a handmade wooden photo frame of one of their vacation photos, a needlepoint of their favorite destination, a leather luggage tag, a handsewn fabric passport cover, a knitted scarf for their next trip, or a scented candle to remind them of favorite travel memory.

Perhaps you are a great home cook. Consider cooking for them or filling their fridge with some meals before they return from a trip to save them from grocery shopping and cooking when they first get back.

Got a gift for choosing great music? Create an amazing playlist for your loved one’s next road trip.

If you are doing a gift with children, perhaps get together to make the person a surprise Welcome Home banner and throw them a little welcome home party.

Price : Priceless

So that is our travel gift guide! Hopefully we’ve given you some great gift ideas for the travelers in your life.

If you want to see the items all in one place (or at least those available online via Amazon) you can check out our gift list here that includes many of the items from our gift guide.

Going to be needing to buy more gifts for travelers in the future? Pin this article on Pinterest to read it again later:

I hope you’ve enjoyed our gift guide for travelers! Which of these products would you want to receive as a gift yourself? Know of a travel-themed gift idea not on our list, feel free to tell us about it.

If you have any questions about any of the gift suggestions, please let me know in the Comments section below!

Share this Post!

There are 29 comments on this post.

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

Idelle Longman Post author

October 15, 2022 at 9:28 am

Hello Jessica,

This is the most comprehensive and well-thought-out gift list ever written. Thank you for your diligent research. I might have missed it, but did you have anything for a well-made rain jacket? Good to have in your suitcase when mother nature does not want to cooperate.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

October 17, 2022 at 12:45 pm

Yes, a good rain jacket is a great idea for a traveler gift. We personally own rain jackets from Trespass (UK company) and North Face. I just got a new North Face one (they have several rain jacket options) that is really lightweight and easy to pack and good for warmer climates. I also have a thicker, warmer one I use for colder places from Trespass. You can see some rain jacket options on Amazon here and on REI here (if in the USA). North Face, Outdoor Research, Columbia, REI, Marmot, and Patagonia all have a number of rain jacket, parka, and poncho options but any of the outdoor stores/brands carry some good options.

I would just make sure you get one with a good hood, useful pockets (preferably zippered and sealed), and is the right weight/warmth for where you plan to travel. Reading reviews online can also be helpful. If needing one for a warm/hot place, I would recommend something really thin and packable so it doesn’t take up much space in your suitcase.

Hope that helps!

Best, Jessica

Jan Post author

December 9, 2021 at 10:10 am

Great gift guide here! Wondering if you could help direct me to what kind of camera might be good for a beginner. I have no real knowlege of cameras and my son, age 19, is taking interest in photography and would like to get him a decent camera that he could perhaps upgrade in future. What models might be best. What else would he need, such as basic accessories just to get started. Budget for camera around 500 to 600 euros.

December 9, 2021 at 12:36 pm

What a lovely gift idea.

I’d recommend either a mirrorless camera or DSLR camera . So at that price point we would probably recommend a DSLR camera, because mirrorless cameras tend to be a bit more expensive (although you might also consider a used or refurbished camera as well where you can get more for your money).

For a new DSLR at that price point (for both the camera body and a lens), we’d recommend something like the Canon EOS 250D , which you should be able to get with a lens for around €600. Canon have a huge range of lenses, so he can upgrade further down the road if he wanted to.

In terms of accessories, you’d want to make sure the camera comes with a battery, charger, and camera strap (most cameras come with these included) and you’d also want to probably get him a memory card (16GB or greater). Those are the basic things he would need to use the camera and get started!

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have any other questions!

December 9, 2021 at 6:35 pm

Thanks Jessica! this is super helpful and very kind of you to get back to me so quickly. That recommendation sounds good as I know he had a little Canon camera when he was a kid that he loved. This gives me a good jumping off point to start from and I will also check out the camera articles you link to try to educate myself a little more about the basics.

Much appreciated!!! ~Jan

December 10, 2021 at 5:06 am

You’re very welcome and just let us know if you have any other questions when camera shopping! Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season.

October 17, 2022 at 8:22 pm

Hi Jessica,

Your information is very helpful, especially concerning jackets for colder places.

Erma G. Post author

December 4, 2021 at 8:29 am

Fantastic travel gift guide! Just wanted to say thanks as it gave me lots of ideas as I do my holiday shopping this weekend 😉

December 4, 2021 at 8:35 am

Glad you found our gift guide for travelers useful for your holiday shopping! Thanks for taking the time to comment, we always love hearing that our content has been helpful 😉

Wishing you luck as you shop and a wonderful holiday season!

Connie D. Post author

November 7, 2019 at 2:33 pm

Very detailed list ! How about adding some travel translators like Travis or Pocketalk? They’d fit right well with the theme 🙂

November 8, 2019 at 3:45 am

Hi Connie, Glad you like our gift guide for travelers. Yes, a travel translator could also make a great gift for someone traveling internationally to a country where they don’t speak the language. Thanks for the suggestion!

Suzanne Walsh Post author

October 28, 2019 at 5:13 am

Such a wonderful and thoughtful gift guide for travel lovers! I have a couple of questions if you don’t mind as would like some advice.

1.) What would you think would make a nice travel related stocking stuffers for a family of 4 (parents in late 20’s, girls 5 and 7)? My husband and I are purchasing a trip for our older son and daughter in law and their two kids to go to Costa Rica this year – it will be their first time out of the country. Big gift for them all and then we wanted to just give them some stocking stuffers that would go with it so they have something else to open.

2.) On a sort of related note, I really like your articles about cameras and am thinking about getting a camera for my stepson. He’s 17 and interested in photography. He really likes nature and landscapes as well as taking photos of our dog, family, and documenting our family travels. Currently he has his phone as well as an old point and shoot camera (5+ years old now). Was thinking of maybe a mirrorless camera and budget is around U.S. $500. Any thoughts on a specific model?

Thank you very much indeed!

October 28, 2019 at 6:16 am

Hi Suzanne,

That sounds like some exciting holiday gifts for your family – I am sure they are going to be very excited and thankful for such a big gift! For stocking stuffer travel gifts, I would perhaps consider some things that are related to their upcoming trip. You can get them small things to help them get excited for their trip, things to help plan their time in Costa Rica, and/or things they will need for the trip.

Here are a several ideas:

-Passport holders for their new passports, you can get them personalized with their first names or initials, you can see some options here -Candles or soap that smell like Costa Rica to get them excited, like this soy candle -Guidebook to Costa Rica to help them plan what they want to do, there are a lot of options with most of the major travel guide companies having one on the country -The girls may like coloring books about Costa Rica they can do before the trip and on the flights -Costa Rica themed jewelery, such as a necklace or bracelet, see some options here -Christmas tree ornament related to Costa Rica, such as this one that can be personalized for the family -Toiletery bags, packing cubes, travel sized bottles, etc. are also great things to gift, especially for those new to international travel

In terms of a mirrorless camera for your stepson, I would probably recommend the Canon EOS M200 . This is a great entry level mirrorless camera with all the manual controls that you need to get to grips when learning photography and doing some experimenting, but at a reasonable price point. It is slightly over your budget, so you could get the older model EOS M200, but we think the price difference is worth the upgrade in this case.

Hope that helps and wishing you a happy holiday season!

October 30, 2019 at 3:19 am

Thanks so much Jessica, so many great thoughts. Love the idea of making them about Costa Rica and you’ve saved me from many hours of looking and searching for the perfect gifts!

Aksel Post author

September 3, 2019 at 2:52 pm

This is such a thoughtful and amazing guide, so many great gifts for travellers!

I am wondering if I can get your help as bewildered husband in Copehagen. My wife and I love to travel when we can and I want to get her something she could use on an upcoming trip. We don’t normally do gifting at birthdays but it is going to be her 45th birthday and wanted to get her a little something. Something tasteful and something that would be good for travelling but also would be useful in other situations. I have read your great guide and just can’t make choice, if you have any ideas that would be great. Budget is 150€ to 200€.

September 3, 2019 at 4:43 pm

I am happy to try to provide some suggestions, although it is of course difficult without knowing your wife’s tastes or travel style.

The thing that popped into my mind as I was reading your comment was a cashmere scarf or travel wrap. It is tasteful, useful, and could be used for traveling as well as at home in Denmark. I have a couple from Ovcio that are within your budget that I can highly recommend, you can see those here .

Other birthday gift thoughts:

-A nice piece of luggage, perhaps a carry-on bag that could also be used for other situations? Or a weekender bag? -A nice set of noise-canceling headphones -A monogrammed toiletry bag or travel jewelry case -An e-reader or tablet

Hope that helps you decide, and I am sure your wife will love whatever you get her!

Roslia Santamaria Post author

July 9, 2019 at 4:07 am

wow!! so many great things in this gift guide for travelers and amazing pictures – love it. Thanks for sharing this.

July 11, 2019 at 2:00 pm

Hi Roslia, Glad you are enjoying our travel gift guide – lots of great options for travelers!! Best, Jessica

Scott Post author

May 20, 2019 at 10:29 pm

Wow! Awesome post, really loved reading it. Thank you for sharing all these travel related gift ideas with us.

May 21, 2019 at 5:22 am

Hi Scott, Thanks, glad you enjoyed our post, hope you find the perfect gift for the traveler on your gift list (or for yourself)! Best, Jessica

MF Post author

May 8, 2019 at 5:47 am

Hey, Great content and amazing tips. The list of gifts for travellers contains a list of items that are utmost necessary. Will surely help when next travelling. Thank you for sharing and Keep up the good work.

May 8, 2019 at 8:46 am

Hi MF, Glad you enjoyed it, hoped it helped you choose the perfect gift for the traveler in your life or for yourself 😉 Best, Jessica

Valerie Post author

May 2, 2019 at 5:47 am

Fab travel gifting guide! I am looking for something for my granddaughter, a 17 y.o. (soon to be 18) who is graduating from high school next month and is very interested in traveling the world and joining Peace Corps in future. She is going on a trip with her family to Florida over the summer, but no other travels planned before she starts university. Would like to get her something travel themed but not necessarily something that has to be used for travel since not sure how much traveling she will get to do in near future. Just wanted to see if you had any thoughts? Thanks in advance.

May 2, 2019 at 6:32 am

Hi Valerie!

There are lots of possibilities and it depends on your budget and her taste obviously, but here are a few ideas:

-A piece of jewelry such as this compass necklace which makes a nice graduation gift for a travel lover. But you can see our guide to lots of travel themed jewelry for lots of options. -Something for her university dorm room such as this sheet set . Will need to know the size of her dorm bed. -A nice smartphone phone case with a travel theme such as these ones -A weekend bag she can use for shorter trips, going to the gym, trips home, and nights at friends. You can have it personalized with her initials such as this canvas bag .

Hope that helps! Jessica

May 2, 2019 at 7:02 am

Thanks so much for your thoughtful response, Jessica. These are some great ideas and I think I may go with a necklace and a dorm room sheet/comforter set – just need to check with my daughter about sheet sizes. Thankss so much, Valerie

Ruth Zelger Post author

April 29, 2019 at 8:52 am

This is an amazing list of gift ideas for travelers – the best I’ve ever seen! Very thoughtful list and you can tell you did some research into so many of this products and ideas. I am doing some gift shopping for some college graduation gifts for a few of my nieces/nephews and partners who are headed off on a European backpacking trip and this guide has been incredibly helpful so thank you for that!

One question: You mentioned that some people avoid reusable plastic water bottles – is there anything but BPA that I should be avoiding? Just wondering as planning to buy a few water bottles as part of the gifts.

April 29, 2019 at 9:19 am

So glad you are finding our travel gifts guide helpful! Sounds you have a number of gifts to buy this Spring.

So I am not an expert on the research on reusable plastic bottles, but obviously BPA (bisphenol-A) is one chemical that has been deemed as unsafe by a number of organizations and most plastics bottles are now made without BPA. However, a number of scientists are now concerned about BPA alternatives and similar chemicals used in reusable plastic bottles and containers as they may have the same health effects. The health consequences aren’t from a new bottle, but from a bottle used over time as the chemicals can leech through as the bottle wears and gets older or if it gets scratched etc. You can read more in this article .

How much BPA or other chemicals truly effect an individuals’ health or how often bottles leach into drinks/food is unclear, but if it is a concern, the best recommendations are for uncoated stainless steel bottles (be sure if it is coated, the coating does not contain BPA) or glass bottles.

Seana Turner Post author

April 25, 2019 at 6:24 am

Wow – this is one comprehensive list! I’ve actually given or received a number of these, including the travel adapter, the Bose earphones, the scratch off map, the pin map, the water bottle and the travel vest (which my husband loved when we went to Israel). I love that you started with the idea of watching children.. that is probably the hardest one to get, and is such a sacrificial and loving gift!

April 25, 2019 at 11:23 am

Hi Seana, Glad you like it and wow, sounds like you have already given and received some great gifts for travelers – we have many of those same products 😉 Yes, indeed, sometimes the most thoughtful gift you can give is your time! Best, Jessica

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of replies to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store the data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

53 Best Gifts for Women Who Love to Travel

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

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

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

Our top picks:

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

Find the best gifts for her by category:

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

Tech essentials

• Home & kitchen

Luggage, bags, & travel accessories

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

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

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

Shown in beige

Beauty & skincare products

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

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

Travel-friendly clothing & shoes

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

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

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

Home & kitchen items

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

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

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

The Travel Sisters

45 best travel gifts for couples (that they will use & love).

by The Travel Sisters | Nov 12, 2023 | Travel Gifts and Gear | 4 comments

Best Travel Gifts for Couples

1.  Travel Coffee Table Books

This book about the world’s most romantic destinations and this book about the ultimate journeys for two should provide plenty of inspiration for future getaways for couples.

2.  Headphone Splitter

A headphone splitter allows couples to connect two headphones so both can listen to music or watch movies together while traveling.

3.   Matching Luggage Tags

Couples that travel might enjoy matching his and hers luggage tags .

4.  Matching Passport Holders

They will love a cute passport holder for each of them. These matching passport holders come in a variety of travel inspired designs and can even be personalized with your names or initials.

5.  Photo Album Scrapbook

A photo album scrapbook is a great way to store photos from your travels as a couple.

6.  Scratch Off World Map

Couples can use this scratch off world map to keep track of their travels together.

7.  Travel Fund Piggy Bank

This travel fund piggy bank is a cute gift for couples saving up for a honeymoon, anniversary trip or romantic trip together.

8. Ticket Stub Holder

This  framed shadow box ticket stub holder is great way for couples to cherish and store memories and keepsakes from a special romantic trip.

9. Mini Cork Globe

Your favorite travel couple can use this mini cork globe to keep track of where they have been together.

10. Bucket List Journal for Couples

Travel couples can use this bucket list journal for couples to brainstorm bucket list goals to accomplish together and journal their adventures.

11. Flight Message Board

This flight message board is a great home decor gift for a travel loving couple. They can even leave messages and reminders for each other.

12. Matching Journals

Get them matching journals in different colors.

13. Mr and Mrs Wine Tumbler Set

This set of insulated wine tumblers is perfect for romantic getaway.

14. Portable Bluetooth Speaker

This portable bluetooth Speaker is a great gift for a couple that wants to listen to some music on their romantic trip.

15. Selfie Stick

A selfie stick is useful for pairs obsessed with getting the perfect couple shot.

16. Lightweight Tripod

A lightweight tripod is also useful for couples that want to take photos that they are both in together.

17. Double Hammock

Lightweight and portable, this double hammock is a perfect gift for couples that want to lounge together outdoors on vacation or at home.

18. Sleeping Bag for Two

Couples that enjoy camping could use a sleeping bag for two .

19. Camping Tent for Two

Another great gift for couples that enjoy the outdoors is a camping tent for two .

20. Large Beach Blanket for Two

This large beach blanket is perfect for couples that enjoy beach vacations and is also lightweight, waterproof and sandproof. Couples can also use the blanket as a large picnic mat when they go camping and hiking.

21. Digital Luggage Scale

If you know a couple that overpacks, help them avoid overweight bag fees with digital luggage scale .

22. Mobile Gimbal

Couples that enjoy filming videos on their travels can use a gimbal like the Osmo Mobile 3 by DJI .

23. Cocktails From Around the World Book

Couples that enjoy making drinks inspired from their favorite travel destinations, will appreciate this book with recipes and a history of 80 cocktails from around the world.

24. Liquor Decanter Set

This liquor decanter set is a unique travel gift for couples that enjoy a good drink.

25. Travel Themed Board Game

This world travel themed board game is a fun travel themed activity for couples to enjoy together at home.

26. Travel Themed Puzzles

A travel themed puzzle is another fun gift traveling couples can enjoy while at home.

27. Travel Themed Throw Pillows

Travel inspired throw pillows look great in any traveler’s home. Consider this set of geography themed throw pillow covers . Aviation enthusiants will love airport code throw pillows from Airportag .

28. Travel Christmas Ornaments

This globe Christmas ornament is great Christmas gift for a travel couple. Here are more travel themed ornaments that will look beautiful hanging on any couple’s Christmas tree including cute suitcase, passport and airplane ornaments.

29. Personalized Travel Keepsake Box

This personalized wooden keepsake box is perfect for couples to store travel memories including photos, plane tickets, stubs, etc.

30. Map Wall Art

Map wall art is a great home decor gift for couples.

31. Push Pin World Travel Map

Couples will love these framed push pin world travel maps which come in a variety of different colors and can be completely customized.

33. Global Cookbook

A global cookbook with recipes from all over the world is a great gift for couples that enjoy cooking together.

34. Picnic Backpack for Two

A picnic backpack for two is a great gift for a couple that loves spending time outdoors. They can carry everything they need for a romantic picnic on their next hike or day at the beach.

35. Apple AirTags and Keychain

Anyone that flies with checked luggage can use Apple AirTags or Samsung Galaxy SmartTags to track lost or delayed luggage. You can also get them matching Airtag keychain holders for their keys.

36. Adventure Buddies Couples Shirts

These matching adventure buddies couples shirts are a fun travel gift for a traveling couple.

37. Matching Coffee Mugs

Couples can use these matching coffee mugs at home or bring them when they go camping. You can also gift them this runway heart mug which can be customized with their names.

38. Matching Phone Covers

If you are looking for a fun stocking stuffer, get them matching world map phone covers for their smartphones.

39. Portable Handheld Garment Steamer

A portable handheld garment steamer will keep their clothes wrinkle free so they can look their best in their honeymoon and vacation photos.

40. Airline Gift Card

There is nothing a travel lover wants more than free travel. Get your favorite travel loving couple a Southwest Airlines gift card for their Southwest flights.

41. Accommodation Gift Card

Help your loved ones pay for their trip with a hotels.com gift card . There are several denominations available so these gift cards are perfect gifts whatever your budget.

42. Travel Experience Gift Card

One of the best gifts for couples is an amazing travel experience that they can enjoy together. A Tinggly travel experience can be used towards hundreds of incredible experiences all over the world which are ideal for romantic quality time.

A GetYourGuide gift card can be used for day trips, skip the line tickets or unique experiences at many destinations around the world.

43. Action Camera

The new rugged and waterproof GoPro HERO12 action camera is perfect for active couples that want to take photos and videos of their travel adventures.

If you want to splurge on a gift for your travel loving honey or want to get a great wedding or honeymoon gift for a traveling couple, it does not get much better than a travel drone. The DJI Mini 2 is a great option for beginners and is also ultralight and foldable.

45. Travel Themed Bedding Set

A travel themed bedding set is a great gift for a couple moving in together. Airportag carries a large selection of travel and aviation themed duvet covers and comforters .

Want more travel gift ideas for couples? See our list of  100+ Best Gifts for Travelers .

Ah, the good ol’ selfie stick. I was actually looking to see if it would make the list because I want to get one for our upcoming vacation. It gets old asking people to take all your pictures for you! Glad to know I won’t be totally outdated buying one in 2019.

My biggest problem with this post is that there are too many things to choose from! I’d prefer to buy them all…but those matching luggage tags are super cute! Possibly my friends will be first angry for them considering that they aren’t allowed to travel but well… I take the risk, I know they’ll love it!

Thanks for the ideas! My boyfriend loves it so much!!!

I love that you listed something for every budget. Those passport holders are sooo cute!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Recent posts.

• Airlines Giving Extra Bonus Miles for Online Shopping (Earn Up to 9,500 Bonus Miles)
• Earn Up to 9,500 Bonus Miles: 5 Airlines Giving Extra Bonus Miles for Online Shopping
• Best Amazon Prime Day Travel and Luggage Deals – Day 2
• Best Amazon Prime Day Travel and Luggage Deals -Day 1
• Chase Freedom Flex 2024 3rd Quarter 5% Bonus Categories

Follow us on Facebook

Pin It on Pinterest

Your cart is empty

Click below to start your collection!

EASY RETURNS | Free shipping on ORDERS $50+

We offer a deluxe matte box for Wanderchains for a beautiful presentation. ✨

*Gift Packaging is only available for Tokens

*Wanderchain sold separately

Add a Monogram to the Back

Personalize Back of the Token? +$6

Add Date to Token Back? +$6

Edit Monogram

Edit personalization.

We don’t have that token but you can make your own with our Custom Tokens!

10+ Clever Travel Basket Gift Ideas

When it comes to showing appreciation or expressing love, gift-giving is a time-honored tradition. And when the person you're shopping for loves to travel , it's important to find the perfect present, one that strikes a balance between meaningful, unique, and useful. 

Sometimes the best gift idea is one that actually combines several things  — like, perhaps,  a travel basket full of goodies and other essentials for those who love traveling often (or even do it out of necessity, like flight attendants ).

Do you need some inspiration for putting together the right travel basket? Consider these thoughtful travel basket gift ideas!

14 Travel Basket Gift Ideas You’ll Love

Show how much you care about your globetrotting loved one with these travel basket gift ideas. 

1. The Wander Club Travel Tokens

One of the joys of traveling is collecting keepsakes, or  souvenirs , from past trips so you can look back and have those memories.

Travel tokens from The Wander Club  are a fun, unique way to keep a record of and display the places someone has traveled to. These collectible tokens are made of high-quality stainless steel and feature the name of different destinations, ranging from national and state parks to countries and landmarks. 

Plus, each token is customizable with an engraving , so you can add a date or initials. Any jet-setting pal will appreciate this, so it's one of the best travel basket gift ideas!

2. The Wander Club Token Holder

Collecting travel tokens is even better when you have a customizable token holder  to hold and display them. After all, what's the point of souvenirs that just sit on a shelf or in a drawer, never being seen?

Choose a unique, handcrafted Wanderchain that you can attach to a keyring to organize and display travel tokens. They come available in various colors and designs, but each is handmade for an extra level of uniqueness.

If, alternatively, you’re looking for a conversation piece, buy a chain necklace so you can wear your “travel history” in style.

Pro gift-giving tip: Split rings can only hold up to 40 tokens, whereas the necklaces can accommodate many more tokens.

3. Packable Blanket

Keep the cold at bay on a road trip or during a long flight with a packable travel blanket. They pack up small, often into a carry case that's smaller than a backpack, but open to a nice large size. Some even roll up into a tube shape to fit conveniently around your neck as a rest. 

4. Compression Packing Cubes

One of our go-to travel basket gift ideas is packing cubes. They k eep your clothes organized while eliminating unnecessary bulk, allowing you to fit way more into your luggage. 

5. Passport Cover

For your pals who love to travel internationally, a passport cover is one of the best travel basket gift ideas. Not only is it small and affordable, it also adds a personal touch to the entire gift, especially if you add the recipient’s name.

6. Luggage Scale

Discovering that a suitcase or bag is too heavy at the airport can be very inconvenient — and very expensive . Avoid that with a handheld luggage scale that features a digital display and can measure up to 110 pounds. Its small size also makes it extremely gift-able, perfect for one of your travel basket gift ideas!

7. Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle should be at the top of your list of travel basket gift ideas. It has many benefits, including being sustainable and eco-friendly and saving money by not having to buy single-use bottles. 

For extra brownie points, add a personal water purifier to the basket!

8. Airplane Necklace

A fun necklace with an airplane-shaped pendant makes a statement simply yet elegantly. Many options come in your choice of gold, rose gold, or silver, so there's a style for everyone.

9. Hanging Toiletry Bag

If you're looking for a super practical gift that will go with its recipient on every trip from here on out, this is it. Hanging toiletry bags are some of the best travel basket gift ideas because they provide a getting-ready station virtually anywhere and organize hygiene items. 

10. Travel Jewelry Organizer

This is one of those travel items you don't realize you need until you've traveled with it. A simple yet wildly helpful jewelry case designed for travel (typically padded and very small) can keep your  earrings, necklaces, rings, and more safe during travel. To make it an even better travel basket gift idea, add a monogram or name for a personal touch.

11. Travel Scrapbook

Often the best vacations are shared experiences between loved ones. Whether you get a DIY kit or a ready-made scrapbook, they're highly customizable and meaningful, making it one of the best travel basket gift ideas. 

12. Keepsake Container

People love collecting things like beach sand, pine cones, seashells, and leaves on their travels, so one of the best travel basket gift ideas is a jar or other container to keep them all organized. 

13. Scratch Map

We love this travel gift idea because of the customization and fun it offers! Who wouldn't enjoy scratching off the different places they've visited, whether that be national parks, countries, or US states? Many also come protectively rolled up in a tube, so they're extra giftable.

14. Soft Cooler Bag

We have a serious appreciation for those who travel on a budget, and a soft cooler is a great way to do that. Investing in a high-quality cooler bag lets you stock up on some basic groceries when you get to a destination, allowing you to skip eating out so often. Plus, soft bag-style coolers are packable!

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published

The Wander Club

We are a charitable online shop for travel lovers! We help keep your favorite memories alive with engraved tokens and handcrafted token holders. For every order placed, we provide a meal to a child in need. ❤️

Recent Articles

• 12 Van Life Must Haves for a Smooth Road Trip
• 7 Best National Parks to Visit in March
• 7 Stunning Warm Places to Visit in January
• 10 Unique Outdoor Winter Sports to Try
• 9 Gifts for Travel Lovers: Budget Edition
• 7 Best States to Visit in Winter for Every Type of Adventurer
• 30 Best Wanderlust Quotes to Inspire You
• 10 Awesome Outdoorsy Stocking Stuffers
• 6 Best National Parks to Visit in February
• 15 Awesome Gift Ideas for Sports Lovers
• Translation missing: en.accessibility.refresh_page

The Ultimate Guide to Nizhny Novgorod (and Beyond!)

Nizhny Novgorod… The city where I spent eight months of my life and never regretted a single day of it. My dear reader, if you are reading these lines, it is likely that you are planning a trip to this wonderful city yourself. Perhaps, you do not know where to start. I too was in your shoes so I would know. Maybe, you do not know where to start because you do not know much Russian. Maybe you do know some Russian but realize that there is not much written about the city even in that language. I know, I know… Let us fix this severe injustice to one gem of a city once and for all, right now. Below, you can find two things: a categorized list of all my articles to date on Nizhny Novgorod and beyond, collected here for a much easier access to them all; and a carefully curated “best of” list for the city for those who only plan to spend a few days in this wonderful place.

No more will the wonders of Nizhny Novgorod go unnoticed by the rest of the world!

(Ok, this may be going a tad too much…)

What to do in Nizhny Novgorod?

Feeling bored? Read these articles to figure out what to do next in the city!

• Nizhny Novgorod’s Kremlin
• Keeping Up with the Nizhny Novgorodians: Online Catalogues for Events in the City
• Musical Nizhny Novgorod: Finest Spots in Town for Music Lovers
• When Walking Around Becomes a Hobby: Parks of Nizhny Novgorod
• Feeling Artsy in Nizhny Novgorod: Art Museums of Nizhny
• Museums of History in Nizhny Novgorod
• Technical Museums of Nizhny Novgorod

Where to eat in Nizhny Novgorod?

Feeling peckish? Not on my watch! Go figure out what to eat now by reading the following articles.

• American Fast Food in the Russian Federation (in 2022)
• A Short Guide to Shawarmas of Nizhny Novgorod
• Vegetarian Shawarmas of Nizhny Novgorod
• Falafels of Nizhny Novgorod
• Pizzerias of Nizhny Novgorod
• Pescetarian Nizhny: Budget Friendly Fish Sandwiches Around Town
• Shellfish Nizhny: Affordable Shrimp Options in Town
• A Guide to Business Lunches in Nizhny Novgorod: Slavic Edition
• A Guide to Business Lunches in Nizhny Novgorod: “Oriental” Edition
• A Guide to Business Lunches in Nizhny Novgorod: “Modern” Edition
• A Guide to Business Lunches in Nizhny Novgorod: “Exotic” Edition
• Random Food Spots Around Nizhny Novgorod
• Sweet Nizhny Novgorod: Bakeries and Cafes in Town
• Drinking Nizhny Novgorod: Pubs of the City

Miscellaneous Articles About Nizhny Novgorod

Feeling confused? Here is a list that will surely confuse you further with its randomness!  

• Public Transportation in Nizhny Novgorod
• Shopping in Nizhny Novgorod
• Temples of Nizhny Novgorod
• 4th of November in the Russian Federation: Unity Day
• Celebrating the New Year in The Russian Federation
• Maslenitsa: Mardi Gras of Russia?
• A Little Soviet Getaway: Bor
• The Quirky World of “Russian” Instant Noodles
• Miscellaneous Bits and Pieces about Nizhny Novgorod

Arkhangelsk – Mini Arc

Feeling adventurous? Why not fly to Arkhangelsk after reading what to do and what to eat over there?

• Arkhangelsk: A City Worthy of an Archangel?
• Malye Korely: A Sliver of Heaven in Arkhangelsk
• Eating Out in the North: Where to Feast in Arkhangelsk

Kazan – Mini Arc

Feeling reasonable? Well yeah, Arkhangelsk may not be for everyone, but there really is not any reason not to visit Kazan if you will be staying in Nizhny Novgorod for a while.

• Soviet Kazan: An Era Long Gone?
• Tatar Kazan: A Mix of Identities
• The True Highlight of Kazan: Temple of All Religions
• The Land of Meat and Potatoes: Tatar Fast Food
• Top Pizze rias of Kazan
• Most Welcome Yet Unexpected: Vietnamese Food in Kazan

Best of Nizhny Novgorod

Alright, I can almost hear you say: “oh geez man, let me just stay in Nizhny for a few months to make sure that I experience everything you wrote.” I suppose you are right, not all will study in Nizhny, nor work there, some will just pass by and so on. If you do not have months to explore the city, but only a few days, perhaps just one, what then? Where to go and what to eat? Well, without much humility, I would strongly recommend you visit the following spots first and eat at these fine establishments before anywhere else. These are the must haves of Nizhny, according to yours truly!

DO AND SEE!

• See the city’s Kremlin with your own eyes, and maybe visit the State Russian Art Museum there if you have the time.
• Go to the lower side to gawk at the Cathedral of Aleksander Nevsky and all the goodies it holds.
• Spend some time in the gorgeous Switzerland Park and watch a sunset there, or perhaps travel to the stars at Planetarium 1.
• Appreciate the unique ornaments of the State Bank on the main pedestrian street, Bol’shaya Pokrovskaya.
• Walk down Chkalov’s Stairs and then walk along the Volga until you visit the beautiful Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

EAT AND DRINK!

• Savour the finest ramen this city (and perhaps the entire Federation) has to offer at Fukuramen.
• Eat some decent pizza at either Yula or Pech, depending on which bank of the Oka you are exploring at the time.
• Enjoy the company and service of the finest people in town by grabbing a mug of beer in Freakadely.
• Go to Öö if you want to taste the best cocktails in town instead, in an almost hidden basement no less!
• Head to Gellert for the best beer in town as well as some quick and rather affordable grubs.
• Have some Cinnabon rolls at Cinnabon alongside with a hot drink of your choice to survive the Russian winter.
• Try a business lunch at Skoba, with their own unique takes on many modern dishes.

Well, there you go. Almost a year spent in an unassuming “little” Russian city, one that surprised me at every turn, and one that made me say “thank you” to my former self for choosing to come here just a few months earlier. It was an amazing stay to say the least, and I did not even explore the outlying areas of the city, so, in all honesty, this guide can be expanded sometime in the future quite easily. I cannot say for sure whether I will be back to Nizhny at any point, but if I do, I know that I will be happy to do so. It feels quite weird to be able to put months of my experience into such a short guide, but if this will help anyone out there who is willing to come and enjoy this city, then I guess it will be doing its job just right. I wish you all good luck and best of times!

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Slovenščina
• Science & Tech
• Russian Kitchen

7 incredible ways to enjoy Nizhny Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod (420 km east of Moscow) is welcoming tourists who is ready for adventure in the medieval city.

1. Walk along the downtown embankment

French journalist and explorer Erwann Pensec spent one year in Nizhny Novgorod and said it was the best year of his life. “The city is very calm even in the center and people are very friendly there, they are always ready to help,” said Erwann. “That’s why you can walk down the streets without fear of getting lost.”

Erwann’s favorite place in the city is Verkhne-Volzhskaya (Upper Volga) Embankment. “From this place you can enjoy the horizon, endless forests, and the vast Volga River.”

If you look down from this embankment you’ll see the lower embankment. To get there just go down the Chkalov Staircase, the longest in Russia with 560 steps, and one of the city’s famous landmarks.

2. Look inside the kremlin walls

The kremlin in Nizhny Novgorod was built in the 16th century. The fortress is reminiscent of a stone necklace spread over the slopes of Chasovaya (Sentry) Hill. In the early 17th century, Nizhny Novgorod turned into a bastion of resistance against Polish invasion. A volunteer army led by Kuzma Minin and Prince Pozharsky marched from its gates, driving out the Polish troops during the Time of Troubles and in the process helping to keep Muscovy on the map. Now the kremlin operates as a museum.

German journalist Peggy Lohse found an interesting museum of contemporary art inside the kremlin called Arsenal. “Besides interesting exhibitions there’s a bookstore, where you can buy books on constructivism, art, and local history. And don’t forget to drink the raf coffee in the museum’s café!”

3. Soak up the spirit of cozy streets and yards

There are two main tourist centers in Nizhny Novgorod: On Rozhdestvenskaya Street and Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street. The local manager Yulia Petushkova strongly recommends discovering the small lanes and yards on Rozhdestvenskaya.

“They are very atmospheric and unusual,” she said. “These streets have not been rebuilt for 150 years, so the buildings remain untouched. They are beautiful for their chaotic nature. Hidden there are interesting art objects and cozy coffee houses.”

Yulia also recommends walking down Chernigovskaya Street in the direction of the metro bridge to the world-famous water tower, which was painted by famous street artist Nikita Nomerz.

4. Ride the cable car

The longest cable car above water in Europe exists here and it’s worth jumping on for the views of the town of Bor. Here you can visit the new Pax Romana Park where you can see historical reenactments and take part in festivals and various events.

5. Visit the Museum of Photography

Erwann and Peggy recommend a visit to the  Russian Museum of Photography on Piskunova Street. “On the first floor you’ll find cool vintage gadgets, photos of the Tsarists family, 19th century landscapes and of course, Soviet ideological pictures,” said Peggy. “On the second floor, there will be exhibitions of local artists. Actually, the museum is rather big.”

Traveling with children or interested in science? “You should definitely visit the Kvarki Museum of Science and planetarium near the railway station,” advises Erwann.

6. Get underground  

Only seven Russian cities have a metro. The underground in Nizhny Novgorod is Russia’s shallowest, with stations located no deeper than 20 m. The first stations were opened in 1985 and now the subway has two lines and 14 stops.

“My favorite station is Dvigatel Revolyutsii (Engine of the Revolution) on the red line,” said Yulia. “The locals especially love it because of the impressive name, which honors a diesel engine factory.”

7. Have the best Russian lunch

Blini   and   syrniki   for breakfast,   vatrushki   for brunch, traditional Russian cabbage   schi   for lunch, and if you can fit anything else in try beef stroganoff and   kulebyaka   for dinner. There are a lot of places in the city offering tasty food where you can find traditional Russian menus. Most of them are located on Rozhdestvenskaya and Bolshaya Pokrovskaya street.

Are you ready for your trip to Russia? Check out 10 things you should avoid doing here ! 

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

• 7 best places to see the Northern Lights in Russia
• 10 replicas of world-famous landmarks you didn’t expect to find in Russia
• Quiz: Where should your next adventure be in Russia?
• 5 things you must do in Moscow in 2018 between football matches (or without them)
• Enjoy St. Petersburg like a local: 12 tips for each month of the year

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

• Guide to Russia
• Experience Russia

Best Places to Visit in Nizhny Novgorod

What are the best places to visit in nizhny novgorod.

• For medieval history : The Novgorod Kremlin, the nucleus of the city and a beacon of Russian power. Visit the fortress’s 13 towers, walk its walls for views of the city and river, and visit the exhibitions inside
• For industrial history : Visit the Open-Air Locomotive Museum to explore steam trains from the first half of the 20th century, or the GAZ History Museum to learn about the Gorky Automobile Factory, where the first Russian tank was created
• For beautiful streets and buildings : Nizhny is a marvel of contrasting architectural styles. Explore Rozhdestvenskaya and Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Streets, admire the State Bank, merchant mansions and Main Fair, and keep an eye out for many quirky statues
• For waterfront relaxation : Explore the Lower and Upper Volga Embankments, admire beautiful views from the Fedorovsky Embankment and cable car, and visit Russia’s longest stairs at the Chkhalov Staircase
• For religious sites : Visit the spectacular Stroganov Church, the more austere Spassky Old Fair Cathedral, the famous Church of the Nativity, and the Pechersky Ascension Monastery, one of the city’s spiritual centres
• For artistic highlights : Visit the State Art Museum’s collection of 15th-20th century European art, and discover the National Centre of Contemporary Art in the Kremlin’s former arsenal For folk culture: See traditional village architecture and learn about folk life at the Shchelokovsky Farm ethnographic museum, and discover the famous folk handicraft, Khokhloma, at the Khokhlomskaya Rospis factory and museum

Founded in 1221, Nizhny Novgorod became one of Russia’s most distinguished political and economic centres. Although a closed Soviet city from 1945 until 1991, today it is the fifth largest city in Russia, a vibrant hub attracting visitors from all over the world. Walk the historical streets and wide embankments, visit cultural and artistic institutions, and learn about the industrial past and folk heritage of one of Russia’s oldest cities. What are the best things to see and do in Nizhny Novgorod?

Learn about Nizhny Novgorod’s medieval history

Address: Ploshad  Minina and Pozharskogo, Nizhy Novgorod

Discover Nizhny Novgorod’s industrial history

Address: 1V, Utitsa Gorokhovetskaya,  Nizhy Novgorod Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00 Mon-Sun

For those more interested in four-wheeled vehicles, take a trip to the GAZ History Museum to learn about the Gorky Automobile Plant, a joint venture between the Soviets and Ford and the production site of the first Soviet tank. See over 35,000 exhibits, including cars and military vehicles.

Address: 95, Prospekt Lenina,  Nizhy Novgorod Opening hours: 09:00 - 16:00 Mon-Sat

Explore the city streets and architectural marvels

Must-visit spots include the lively Rozhdestvenskaya and Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Streets, home to many restaurants, bars, and historical buildings. Some of Nizhny’s most striking architectural wonders include the State Bank, Rukavishnikov Estate, and the Nizhny Novgorod Fair, an enormous Classicist structure. This building housed the largest fair in the Russian Empire, with thousands of stalls; inside the building today you’ll find exhibitions about the history of Nizhny Novgorod.

Keep an eye out for many interesting statues dotted around Nizhny Novgorod’s streets – in particular the Gromozeka book characters, the Veselaya koza (funny goat), the monument to author Jules Verne in his iconic hot air balloon, and the monument to Minin and Pozharsky, defenders of Moscow against the Poles (whose remains lie in the Kremlin cathedral).

Enjoy the peaceful waterfront

Visit the city’s religious sites

Discover Nizhny Novgorod’s artistic highlights

Address: 3, Kreml, Nizhny Novgorod

At the other end of the artistic spectrum, a visit to the Arsenal National Centre of Contemporary Art is highly recommended. Nizhny’s only museum dedicated to modern art is housed in the former Kremlin arsenal. More than a museum, it is a research and cultural centre dedicated to modern artistic development, offering not just exhibitions but concerts, theatre performances, film nights and more.

Address: 6, Kreml, Nizhny Novgorod

Get a glimpse of Russian folk culture and traditions

Shchelokovsky farm.

Visit this fascinating ethnographic museum to learn about the history of everyday life and folk customs of people living in the Nizhny Novgorod Volga region, and admire the wooden village architecture spanning from the 1600 – 1800s. While there, take a stroll around the surrounding forest and discover its wildlife, protected by local environmental programmes.

Address: 41, Gorbatovskaya Ulitsa, Nizhny Novgorod Opening hours: 10:00 - 17:00 Tue-Sun

Khokhlomskaya Rospis

Address: 18, Ulitsa Chkalova, Semenov, Nizhny Novgorod Oblast Opening hours: 08:00 - 17:00 Mon-Fri

Our travel brands include

Express to Russia

Join us on Facebook

We invite you to become a fan of our company on Facebook and read Russian news and travel stories. To become a fan, click here .

Join our own Russian Travel, Culture and Literature Club on Facebook. The club was created to be a place for everyone with an interest in Russia to get to know each other and share experiences, stories, pictures and advice. To join our club, please follow this link .

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, and to facilitate providing you with services available through our Website. To opt out of non-essential cookies, please click here . By continuing to use our Website, you accept our use of cookies, the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service . I agree

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.