Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Every Kind of Traveler
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There are few things sweeter in life than gifting the perfect gift. That moment when you know you nailed it – when your loved one’s eyes light up and their lips part into a full-tooth smile – is second-to-none.
If you’re trying to find the perfect gift for someone in your life who’s always either traveling or planning their next trip, then keep scrolling. I’ve organized this gift guide by traveler type so that you can hone in on the best gift, the one that will have them grinning from ear to ear.
Gifts for the Frequent Flyer
Does the traveler in your life have elite status with one or more airlines? Is frequent travel in their job description? Do they know the in-flight safety demonstration by heart? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this is the section for you.
Trtl Pillow
What I love about this travel pillow is that it’s compact, lightweight, and machine washable. With a scarf-like design, it wraps around your neck to provide head support and prevent the bane of every sleepy traveler: head bobbing.
Linen Sleep Mask
A sleep mask is a must-have for any traveler hoping to catch some Zs. This handcrafted eye mask is made of linen and a soft, minky fabric that gently rests against your eyes.
© Loop
Loop Quiet 2 Earplugs
Dampen the cabin noise with a set of Loop earplugs. While these won’t completely silence all of the sounds aboard a plane, they will make them quieter, which will make for a more pleasant flight.
Sockwell Compression Socks
Being a frequent flyer equates to a lot of time spent sitting, and one way to promote circulation while seated (besides getting up periodically) is to wear compression socks. This particular pair is the one that I wear, but your traveler might require a different compression level or style.
Compression Packing Cubes
From compression socks to compression cubes. These packing cubes won’t double your suitcase’s capacity, but they will eke out a bit more space, which can mean the difference between getting that souvenir sweatshirt or not. Plus, they keep your suitcase nice and tidy. I like to keep my shirts in one cube, pants in another, and other clothing bits in the others.
Peak Design Wash Pouch
While we’re on the topic of organization, a good toiletry bag is a must-have for travel. What I love about this toiletry bag is its abundance of pockets and storage compartments. Plus, it has a stowable hook that you can use to hang it up once you arrive at your hotel.
Travel Tech Organizer
Chances are, whenever the jet setter in your life travels, they bring an assortment of charging cables with them. If they’re currently storing all of those cables in a jumbled mess in a plastic bag, then I have the perfect gift suggestion: a travel tech organizer. This bag features individual pockets for each cable, making it easy to locate exactly what you need.
© Away
Away The Carry-On
Has your traveler been using the same tired, beaten-up suitcase for years? If so, then gift them a luggage upgrade with Away’s The Carry-On. As implied by its name, this is a carry-on suitcase designed to fit in the overhead compartment of most major airplanes. Thoughtfully designed, it features a well-organized interior, including two compression pad pockets and a zipper flap pocket. It also has a TSA-approved lock, providing peace of mind in the event that you have to check it. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, so you can have a suitcase as muted or as colorful as you want.
© Away
Away The Everywhere Bag
If you really want to go all out, you can pair Away’s The Carry-On with their The Everywhere Bag, which is designed to be secured to any Away suitcase and used as a personal item on flights. Just like The Carry-On, The Everywhere Bag features a well-organized interior with several pockets and a zippered compartment.
Anker Power Bank
As someone who has been abroad and had their phone die, I can tell you it’s not fun (especially when you’re driving and trying to navigate your way back to your hotel). A power bank, such as this one from Anker, allows you to charge your phone and laptop on the go so you don’t have to suffer like I did.
Travel Adapter
If the person you’re shopping for does a lot of international travel, then this is a great gift option. Instead of having to remember to pack the specific plug adapter for whatever country they’re visiting, they can simply keep this adapter cube in their suitcase at all times. It has plug adapters for some of the most popular countries/regions: the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States.
Airplane Phone Holder
This next gadget is particularly useful for someone who flies on budget airlines, such as Frontier, where there are no TVs. With this, you can mount your phone in front of you, allowing you to watch content in a hands-free manner.
Luggage Tag
A luggage tag is a classic travel gift for a reason: it’s both thoughtful and practical. This one from Little Dot Studio on Etsy has a timeless design and comes in a variety of colors.
Luggage Strap
Are you looking for something that pops a bit more than a luggage tag? Something that can be attached to a suitcase to make it easily identifiable on the luggage conveyor belt? This fully customizable luggage strap should do the trick.
AirTag
An AirTag is such a useful gift, especially for those travelers who frequently check luggage. Pop one in your suitcase, and should your luggage be misplaced by the airline during transit, you can track it to see where it is (and then pass that information on to the airline).
Kindle
Keep boredom at bay with a Kindle. As someone who both reads and travels a fair amount, I have gotten a lot of mileage out of my Kindle – and freed up a lot of suitcase space. Gone are the days of having to pack multiple books to see me through a trip; I have dozens downloaded and at my fingertips on my Kindle.
When purchasing the Kindle, you have the option to select either “ad-supported” or “without lockscreen ads.” I recommend choosing the latter; otherwise, anytime your Kindle is locked, you’ll see ads.
Arden Cove Crissy Full Crossbody with Locking Clasps Strap
Both slash- and water-resistant with an RFID-blocking wallet, Arden Cove’s Crissy Full Crossbody makes for an ideal travel bag, allowing you to travel with a sense of security. Plus, it’s so stylish that I actually use it as my everyday bag.
Gifts for the Budget Traveler
If the traveler you’re shopping for is always looking for ways to save a buck or two, then this is the section for you.
© Going
Going Membership
I am always recommending Going to my friends and family. My husband and I have been members for several years, and through it, we have been able to score some great airfare deals. How does it work? After signing up and providing your home airport, Going will monitor prices for flights out of that airport and send you alerts when they drop. For continental US alerts, sign-up is free; for Alaska, Hawaii, US territories, and international destinations, a paid membership is required.
Lonely Planet “On a Shoestring” Book Series
From Southeast Asia on a Shoestring to Europe on a Shoestring, Lonely Planet has published a series of “on a shoestring” travel guides for the budget-conscious traveler. Find the region that best fits your traveler and buy them that guide.
Cafflano Klassic All-in-One Pour-Over
Skip the expensive café coffee and brew your own from the comfort of your hotel room. This super convenient thermos includes a drip kettle (for pouring the hot water), a manual grinder, a drip filter, and a cup. All you need are beans and hot water.
Travel Electric Kettle
If your traveler frequently finds themselves in places without easy access to hot water (e.g., at a campground) but wants to brew their own coffee or tea, consider gifting them a travel electric kettle. As long as they have access to an outlet, they can boil their own water.
Please note that this particular kettle is wired for 120 V voltage only.
Silicone Collapsible Bowl
An easy and effective way to save money while traveling is to eat breakfast at your hotel. Unless you are staying at an Airbnb or Vrbo with a fully stocked kitchen, you will likely not have access to a bowl. Enter a travel-friendly collapsible bowl. Buy some cereal and milk, and you’re ready to go.
OXO Good Grips Prep and Go Utensils with Case
Of course, if you give your traveler a bowl, they’re going to need some utensils. This three-piece set comes with a stainless steel fork, spoon, and butter knife, as well as a plastic carrying case.
Nalgene Water Bottle
One of my favorite travel hacks, especially when flying, is to bring my own (empty) water bottle. Most airports have water bottle refill stations (typically located near the bathrooms), allowing you to pass on the overpriced bottled water. My water bottle of choice is this 32-ounce one from Nalgene; it’s durable and holds a decent amount of H₂0.
Refillable Travel Journal
My sister gave me this very travel journal many years ago, and I love it. It has a timeless design and is compact, easily fitting in a suitcase or purse. Plus, it is super customizable and refillable. You can buy various inserts for it (e.g., a plastic zipper sleeve and a monthly diary), and if you want multiple inserts (e.g., both a monthly diary and blank pages), you can buy connecting bands to hold them all together – how cool is that? Your frugal traveler will love it because once you buy them the journal (and any other accessories you want), they will just have to periodically buy new inserts.
Portable Luggage Scale
If your thrifty traveler frequently flies on budget airlines with strict carry-on weight limits, then this is the gift for them. This scale will ensure that they do not inadvertently exceed the limits and face paying overweight-baggage fees – or worse, have to pay for their luggage to be checked.
Refillable Toiletry Bottles
I own and use this exact set of refillable toiletry bottles every time I travel. With 3-ounce capacities, the bottles are TSA-compliant, and their silicone design ensures that you can squeeze every last bit of your product out of the bottle. Plus, they are easy to clean and refill, and they save you money – bye-bye having to buy and barely use bottles of shampoo and conditioner while traveling.
Reusable Tote Bag
A tote bag is such a multi-purpose item, especially when traveling. Toss snacks and water in it for a long drive. Pack towels and sunblock in it when heading to the beach. And for the frugal traveler, use it when grocery shopping to avoid paying any bag fees. Etsy has a ton – and when I say a ton, I mean it – of different tote bag designs, so find one that suits your loved one.
Small Insulated Lunch Box
To avoid paying for overpriced food at airports and train stations, I have recently started packing my own meals. This is the lunch box I use to store my food, and what I love about it is that it is fairly compact and can easily be stored in my backpack (i.e., my personal item when flying).
Gifts for the Adventure Traveler
Is your traveler always venturing off to faraway, off-the-beaten-path locations, or are they the outdoorsy type, preferring camping to glamping any day of the week? Or maybe they simply enjoy a good day hike? If any of these resonate, then one of these gifts might do the trick.
World Scratch-Off Map
With this gift, your traveler can easily track – and proudly display – all of the places that they have been to. Plus, it makes for a great conversation piece at parties.
Waterproof Dry Bag
If your traveler enjoys watersports, such as canoeing or kayaking, then a dry bag is not only a thoughtful but also a practical gift. This is the exact dry bag I own, and anytime I go canoeing, I put my valuables (e.g., phone, wallet, and keys) inside it. Should the canoe end up tipping over, I can rest easy knowing that my belongings will neither sink nor get wet. When empty, the dry bag lies flat, making it easy to stow away in your suitcase.
© LARQ
LARQ Water Bottle
This high-tech water bottle uses LARQ’s trademarked PureVis technology to self-clean and includes a filter to remove contaminants, including PFOS/PFOA and chlorine. The filter can also be upgraded to remove additional contaminants, such as lead. Plus, the cap has a built-in sensor that tracks your hydration, allowing you to see if you are drinking enough water. This would make a great gift for someone who travels to places without guaranteed access to clean drinking water or who spends a lot of time in the backcountry (the bottle has an Adventure Mode specifically designed for use in the backcountry).
AllTrails Subscription
I have been an AllTrails subscriber for many years. With my Plus membership, I can download offline maps, which is invaluable when hiking, because on most trails, cellular data is spotty at best. With the offline maps, I can easily orient myself and navigate, ensuring that I stay on route, and if I accidentally veer off course, AllTrails sends me an alert. I also love the app’s Live Share safety feature, which allows me to share my planned route and real-time location with someone. If your loved one hikes, bikes, or does other trail-based outdoor activities, an AllTrails subscription would make a great gift – it’d be something they’d get true value from.
BigBlue Portable Solar Charger
How cool is this gadget? As long as you have sunlight, you can charge your phone. It’s perfect for backpackers or campers.
Black Diamond Headlamp
A headlamp is a must-have for any adventurer. Even if you don’t plan on being out after dark, it’s best practice to carry one on you whenever venturing into nature. As the old adage goes, it’s better to have something and not need it than to need it and not have it. Black Diamond sells headlamps of varying intensity, so choose the one that best suits your adventurer’s needs.
First Aid Kit
Here’s another item that every adventurer should carry with them: a first aid kit. This particular one by Adventure Medical Kits is lightweight and intended for up to two days of use for two people. If the person you’re shopping for tends to go on longer excursions, you might consider purchasing a larger kit.
Vortex Diamondback HD 8x28 Compact Binoculars
If the traveler in your life spends a lot of time out in nature, why not give them a solid pair of travel-friendly binoculars so they can bird and animal watch to their heart’s content? What I love about this particular pair is that it is well-reviewed and also won’t break the bank. You can easily spend over $1,000 on a pair of binoculars; this pair is under $200.
GoPro Hero
You’ve likely heard of GoPro, the go-to camera brand for adventurers and travelers. What makes it such a popular choice? It’s small but mighty. The entire thing can fit in the palm of your hand, yet it is capable of shooting 4K videos. I’ve used a GoPro to capture moments from some of my trips, and it’s worked beautifully. The camera’s built-in stabilization ensures that you don’t end up with a ton of useless shaky footage, and its petite size makes it a breeze to pack.
© REI
Patagonia Storm Racer Jacket
There are few things worse than being caught in a rainstorm without any gear when you’re out in the middle of nowhere. With a packable, lightweight rain jacket like this, that unpleasantness can be avoided. Give this jacket to your traveler, and they can keep it tucked away in their pack or suitcase, ready to pull it out at the first drop of rain.
Note: I’ve linked to the women’s jacket, but a men’s version is also available.
Anker Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Give your adventurer the gift of entertainment with a portable Bluetooth speaker. Instead of sitting in silence in their tent or RV at night, they can listen to music or perhaps even an audiobook or podcast.
Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When
This is one of my favorite travel books (I have a copy on my bookshelf). For the traveler who’s open to traveling anywhere, this book can be a wonderful source of inspiration, suggesting what places are the best to visit at each time of year.
Lonely Planet’s Offbeat
Lonely Planet makes so many cool travel guides, and this next one is no exception. Perfect for the intrepid traveler, Offbeat details 100 lesser-traveled-to locations, providing guidance on why, when, and how to visit each place.
Lonely Planet’s The Travel Book: A Complete Guide to Every Country in the World
Okay, I swear this is it for the Lonely Planet recommendations (at least for now). I couldn’t not include this guidebook, which provides info and tips for each of the world’s countries.
Gifts for the Homebody Traveler
I know what you’re thinking – “Homebody traveler? Isn’t that a bit of an oxymoron?” Yes, but also no. A homebody traveler is someone who enjoys traveling but also loves nothing more than spending a night curled up on their sofa. When shopping for a homebody traveler, the key is to buy things that will allow them to bring the coziness of home with them wherever they go.
© Bombas
Bombas Gripper Slipper
Who doesn’t love a fuzzy, warm pair of slippers? Unfortunately, they tend to be bulky and take up too much room in your suitcase. Enter Bombas Gripper Slipper, a sock-like slipper. My mom gave me a pair of these, and I can attest to their coziness and packability.
Note: I have linked to the women’s Gripper Slipper, but a men’s Gripper Slipper is also available.
Airplane Foot Hammock
Unless you are fortunate enough to travel in business or first class, flying will never be an entirely comfortable experience, but you can make it more comfortable with a foot hammock. Use it for additional leg support, or use it to elevate your feet a bit. Either way, it provides you with more options than simply sitting with your feet flat on the floor.
Switch 2
Has the homebody traveler in your life discovered cozy gaming? If not, perhaps you could be the one to introduce the two. From Stardew Valley to Animal Crossing and Cozy Grove, the Switch 2 can play a ton of low-stakes, cozy games, and what’s more, the Switch 2 is completely portable. Your traveler can take their Switch 2 and all their cozy games wherever their next adventure takes them.
iPad Air
Or perhaps your homebody traveler prefers cozy TV over cozy games? With an iPad Air, they can watch their favorite shows or movies on the go, including on an airplane*. And, of course, they can also use their iPad Air for more productive endeavors, such as working.
*Many streaming apps, such as Netflix, have the option to download episodes, allowing you to watch them without wifi.
© Bose
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
My Bose noise-canceling headphones are one of my favorite travel accessories. While they don’t create complete silence, they do dampen all of the ambient sounds aboard a plane, making for a more pleasant flight. Plus, the audio output on them is clear and crisp; I can easily hear every bit of dialogue on Gilmore Girls, Hart of Dixie, and all my other cozy shows.
Yogasleep Travel White Noise Sound Machine
If there’s one thing homebody travelers miss when traveling, it’s the comfort of their own bedroom. Hotel rooms are often not the homiest spaces, let’s face it. The beds can be uncomfortable, the decor sterile, and in a city, the noise from outside can bleed into your room. While the first two can’t be fixed (short of paying for a fancier, more expensive hotel), the third can at least be partially remedied with a white noise machine. Drown out the car horns with the relaxing sound of a stream, thunderstorm, fan (a.k.a. Dohm), or gentle surf, or opt for white or brown noise. Plus, it has a dimmable night light – how cool is that?
Monogrammed Travel Blanket
Planes can be cold, and oftentimes, blankets aren’t provided. Ensure your traveler stays warm and toasty with a travel blanket. What I love about this particular travel blanket is that it is fairly compact and can be personalized with the recipient’s initials.
© Ugg
Ugg Tasman Hoodie
Every homebody traveler needs a super cozy hoodie to wear on the plane. Enter the Tasman Hoodie. My mom gave me one of these recently, and it has quickly become one of my favorite hoodies, not just for travel but also for lounging around home in. Now, I know the product page says “Men’s Tasman Hoodie,” but it can be worn by women, too. Just be sure to check the size chart to make sure you order the correct size based on the recipient’s measurements.
Portable Essential Oil Diffuser
With this portable diffuser (and some essential oils*), your traveler can imbue their hotel room or cruise cabin with a warm, cozy aroma.
*If traveling on a plane with essential oil(s) in your carry-on, be sure to adhere to the TSA’s rules around liquids, aerosols, and gels.
Hand-Knitted Merino Wool Beanie
Keep your traveler toasty warm with a beautiful, hand-knitted merino wool beanie. Merino is softer than your standard wool, and it also possesses temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties. On a more personal note, I like merino wool because it is one of only two types of wool (the other being cashmere) that do not irritate my skin; I can wear it without feeling itchy.
© Aviator
Aviator Travel Jeans
A comfortable yet practical pair of pants is essential when traveling. Enter Aviator’s jeans. Their pants are designed for travel, featuring deep pockets and a comfortable fit. I own two pairs of their jeans, the Best Travel Jeans and the Fly Straight, and they both accompany me on my trips.
Psst, want to learn more about Aviator’s jeans? Read my review of their Fly Straight jeans. Also, to save 20% off your order, use the code BOOKISHWAYFARER at checkout.
© Calm
Calm Subscription
Calm is one of my favorite apps/subscriptions. A membership grants you access to a massive library of guided meditations, Sleep Stories (soothing recordings of various stories designed to help you fall asleep), relaxing music, and soundscapes. Several years ago, my mom purchased me a lifetime Calm membership, and to quote Cousin Eddie, it has been the “gift that keeps on giving.” I use it every day for meditation, and while traveling, I use its soundscapes to help fall asleep.
Silk Eye Mask
Is there anything more luxuriously smooth than silk? Help your homebody traveler cozily catch some Z’s with this silk eye mask.
© TwoEast
Vintage Travel Poster
If the traveler in your life has a favorite destination, consider buying them a vintage travel poster from that destination. That way, they can have a reminder of the beloved locale in their other beloved locale: home.
Shameless plug time: my husband digitally restores and sells vintage travel posters (and maps) on his Etsy shop, TwoEast. He takes his time with each piece, and although I might be biased, I think he does a wonderful job.
Small Gifts for Any Traveler
Perfect as Stocking Stuffers or Year-Round Surprises
Perhaps you’re looking for a small yet thoughtful gift for a traveler – something that can be tucked into a stocking or placed under a pillow. I’ve got you.
Bath & Body Works PocketBac Hand Sanitizer
Bath & Body Works is my favorite hand sanitizer brand. I’ve been carrying around one of their petite PocketBac hand sanitizers in my purse since high school. Why? They come in a delightful array of scents, which change with the season.
© ManZePai
Harris Tweed RFID-Blocking Passport Holder
As practical as it is eye-catching, this passport holder from ManZePai on Etsy makes for an excellent stocking stuffer or just-because gift. With a zippered pouch, credit card slots, a passport pocket, and a pen loop, it keeps all of your travel essentials organized. Plus, it has built-in RFID protection, and it can be personalized
First Aid Beauty Travel-Sized Ultra Repair Cream
This lotion from First Aid Beauty is the G.O.A.T. It is safe for sensitive skin, and its non-comedogenic formula ensures that it will moisturize without clogging your pores. I try to remember to always pack a tube of this in my suitcase whenever I’m flying because the air inside a plane’s cabin can be quite dry.
Lip Balm
The air on a plane doesn’t just dry your hands; it also dries your lips. That’s why lip balm can make a great stocking stuffer for travelers. This is the lip balm I use. It’s unscented and beeswax-free, which makes it a good choice for people such as myself with sensitive skin.
Travel Umbrella
Every traveler should have a travel umbrella. You hope you won’t have to use it during your trip, but when the raindrops start falling, boy, are you glad you brought it.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths
If the traveler you’re shopping for does a lot of long-haul flights, a thoughtful and useful gift is these cleansing wipes from Cetaphil. They provide an on-the-go refresh, allowing you to feel a little less travel weary.
At last, we have reached the end of my list of gift suggestions. I hope that you were able to find at least one thing that worked for the traveler in your life. If not, I’ve written other gift guides; perhaps something in one of those guides will tickle your fancy.
-Julia
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