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• Gifts for grown-ups

The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

By Samantha Schoech

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

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

Bluetooth connection

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

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

Anywhere outlet

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

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

You save $4 (17%)

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

Personal-item perfection

Away The Everywhere Bag

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

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

Artful journaling

Hand Book Paper Co. Travelogue Watercolor Journal

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

Caran d'Ache Gouache Studio Set

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

Kuretake Gansai Portable Watercolor Set

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

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

Dry hair anywhere

PackTowl Personal

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

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

Noteworthy guidebooks

Herb Lester Guides

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

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

Luggage helper

Cincha Travel Belt

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

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

Penkou Portable Neck Fan

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

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

Handy sanitizer

Noshinku Hand Sanitizer

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

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

Reading light

Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light

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

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

Trip planner

Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When

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

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

Luggage tracker

Apple AirTag

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

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You save $20 (20%)

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

Arrive refreshed

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.

Use promo code WCSTATE, price includes shipping

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).

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

A window out into the world

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

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

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

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

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

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

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

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

Tiny white noise machine

Yogasleep Travel Mini Sound Machine

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

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

A game about the birth (and death) of words

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

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

Travel posters with classic appeal

Anderson Design Group World Travel Posters

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

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

Cutlery to go

Hydro Flask Flatware Set

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

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

A pretty passport cover

Tusk Siam Passport Cover

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

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

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

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

Meet your guide

Samantha Schoech

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

Mentioned above

• 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  
• There’s more to a great in-flight personal item than being small enough to stuff under a plane seat. Here’s how to choose the right one for your travel needs. 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

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

by Christine Ryan

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

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 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.

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.

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The 55 Best Gifts for Travel Lovers in 2024

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

Travel + Leisure / Kristin Kempa

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

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

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

Paravel Passport Case

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

Boka Fresh on the Go

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

Jamaica Vibes

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

Contiki Tour

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

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

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

SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

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

LARQ Bottle PureVis

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

Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair

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

Intelligent Change Inc. The Five Minute Journal

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

Andobil Car Phone Holder Mount

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

Puffer Hug 418 Scarf

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

Slip Silk Skinny Scrunchies

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

Vinarmour Travel Wine Carrier

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

The Harmonist Travel Coffret

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

Twelve South AirFly Pro

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

Four Seasons Velvet Slippers

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

Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

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

Dagne Dover Tech Organizer

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

Lindsay Albanese Toptote Leather Hat Holder

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

Diptyque Travel Cleansing & Moisturizing Set

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

Vasco V4 Language Translator Device

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

Pokoloko Harem Towel

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

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

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

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Mesh Bag

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

Conair Travel Garment Dual Voltage Steamer

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

YETI Roadie 24 Cooler

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

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs

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

Paravel Mini Fold-up Backpack

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

Béis The Cosmetic Case

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

Paravel Aviator Carry-on Plus

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

Baggu Nylon Crescent Bag

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

Awake Caffeinated Chocolate Energy Bar

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

Nitecore MT21C Flashlight

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

Moon Dissolving Whitening Strips

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

Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet

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

Aer Travel Weekender

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

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

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

nCamp Café Portable Coffee Maker

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

Nintendo Switch

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

Infinity Pillow Travel Pillow

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

Call You When I Land: A Memoir

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

Nimble Champ Portable Charger

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

Slip Lovely Lashes Contour Sleep Mask

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

Away The Insider Packing Cubes

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

Skyborne iTravel Folio 4.0

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

Rewined Bordeaux Candle

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

Pocket Tripod Universal Kit

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

Foreo Luna Mini 2 Facial Cleansing Brush

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

Audible Membership

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

The Essential Guide to Turkish Wine

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

Riemot Luggage Cup Holder

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

BasicConcepts Airplane Foot Hammock

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

Steamline Luggage The Palm Cosmetics Set

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

1,000 Places to See Before You Die

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

Native Union Universal Sling

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

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

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35 of the Best Travel Gifts For Someone Going Travelling

Last Updated on July 12, 2022

This site contains affiliate links for products and services we recommend. Read my disclaimer  for more information. If you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you, I will earn a small commission (for which I am very grateful).

Whether it’s that festive time of year, or someone you know is about to go on the journey of a lifetime, or you’re just plain feeling generous, a special gift goes a long way.

But sometimes you just end up raking your brain on unique travel gifts for someone going travelling.

Let’s be honest, they can be the hardest to buy for. It’s hard to find the perfect gift for your friends going travelling or even moving abroad. So, I’ve made it easy for you!

With this list, you won’t have to stress about what to gift someone going on a trip, or spend any time coming up with present ideas for someone going travelling.

I’m sure there’s something here for everyone and anyone who loves to travel, be it gifts to give someone going abroad or cute presents for travelling friends.

Whether you’re looking for fun, practical, personalised or totally unique travel gifts, here’s a big list of the 35 best gifts for someone going travelling.

Table of Contents

Practical Travel Gifts

1. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a fantastic and useful product for the avid traveller, making them very good gifts for someone going travelling.

They are great to separate your travel luggage so when you need something you don’t have to empty your entire backpack to find that one thing, they are genius!

My favourite way to organize my luggage is into sections such as dresses, tops and bottoms.

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2. Travel Adapter

Gone are the days where travellers need 5 different adapters to travel the world! Now you can get a universal adapter , so you can travel with just one piece of equipment.

What makes this possibly the best gift for someone going travelling is that it also has 2 USB ports, so you can charge more than one thing at once.

This is possibly the most useful gift for friend going abroad in this day and age when a lot of travellers are travelling with more than one electronic device!

3. Toiletry Bag with Hanger

Not only is this a compact toilet bag but the secret practical use for this is that it also has a hanger.

So when you shower in those pesky communal showers, you have somewhere to place your bag with your toiletries.

Quite often when you have shared bathrooms there will be nowhere to put your bag except for the floor which is not ideal.

Now you can hang this in the shower on a hanger or at the top of the door. If you’re looking for useful travel gifts for friends going abroad, this is a great option.

4. Silicone Travel Containers

Silicone travel containers are so much more practical than the usual hard plastic containers you can get.

Not only a useful travel gift but also, I think they look pretty cool and they are colour coded, so you no longer have to guess which is shampoo and which is body wash.

These are the stealth gifts for people going travelling that they didn’t know they needed.

5. Menstrual Cup

A menstrual cup is a female product that replaces traditional pads or tampons.

It’s a silicone cup that can be reused for years and years which means you cut down the cost of buying female products and you help save the environment.

I recently purchased one of these and I can say I really love it and will never be going back to pads or tampons.

If you’re wondering what to buy for someone going travelling, the menstrual cup is a revolution!

6. Filter Water Bottle

This is not JUST a drink bottle, it’s a bottle that will filter any water you collect.

Having a filter water bottle means wherever you are travelling to you will be able to drink the water from your container and not buy plastic bottles of water all the time.

If you know someone going travelling to a place with potentially undrinkable water, this is one of the most useful gifts for people going abroad!

7. Battery Pack

Wondering what to buy someone who is going travelling? I can strongly recommend a battery pack .

I’m still so surprised at how many people don’t have a battery pack because they’re super useful. It’s a small battery that can charge any small device such as your phone.

The size of the battery pack you need will depend on how many times it will charge your phone.

I always have one that charges mine at least 3 times on the road. This is important for keeping in touch with family members if you don’t have access to a powerpoint.

It’s one of the best gifts for friends going abroad on long-haul flights and those long bus rides!

8. Luggage Scale

An incredibly useful gift can be as simple as luggage scales .

These days airlines are so strict about the weight of your bags so now you won’t have to guess how much your bag weighs and you can come to the airport prepared!

No one enjoys opening their suitcase in front of the entire airport searching for things you can relocate and get rid of to make your bag weigh less!

It might not be first on your list of gifts to get someone going travelling, but they can really get you out of a tight spot sometimes!

9. Bag Locks

I don’t recommend travelling without bag locks . They are so important! I am still so surprised that some don’t even bother to lock their bags.

You should ALWAYS lock your bag when you go on an overseas flight not only to protect your luggage from going missing but also to protect yourself from people putting illegal substances in your bag!

This has happened before.

People have gotten to their destination; their bag has been pulled aside and suddenly they are carrying a shipment of illegal drugs.

This is extremely dangerous, and, in some countries, this can carry a death penalty. ALWAYS protect your bags when travelling!

You can help protect someone you know who is going travelling by buying them this extra useful travel gift!

10. XL Travel Towel

A microfibre travel towel is a magical towel all travellers should have! It’s light and a lot more compact than a regular towel.

It also dries much faster than a regular towel so it’s a must-have for someone going travelling. This one also has a secret pocket where you can keep your valuables while you’re in the water.

11. Reusable Straw

This is something that people don’t always think about when they think about what to get someone who is going travelling, but it can be super important.

In this day and age plastic is a huge problem for our environment. I highly recommend travelling with a reusable straw if you absolutely cannot survive without one.

Overseas some countries don’t think about the impact of just a simple straw.

Save the world one straw at a time by keeping a metal one with you. And don’t tell me that it doesn’t make a difference because it absolutely does!

One less straw on the beach is a difference.

12. Travel Tote Bag

Speaking of plastic, I really love travelling with a tote bag . It’s a great little bag to have on you if you need to do some shopping to avoid using plastic bags.

I sometimes use it as a day bag too. This one is super cute because it has a really beautiful drawing of the elements, making it perfect for an avid traveller and a great gift for friend going travelling.

Help your globetrotting friends stay green with this fun and useful travel gift.

13. Sleeping Bag Liner

It wasn’t until I travelled to India that I realised the importance of carrying one of these.

If you’re looking for travel gifts for someone going travelling to a place like India, then a sleeping bag liner is one of the must-have gifts for someone traveling abroad!

The amount of dodgy looking hostel sheets and overnight trains are enough to now make this a compulsory travel product. It could save you from catching something nasty.

Personalised Travel Gifts

14. Personalised Travel Journal

I HIGHLY recommend a travel journal as a fun, personalised travel gift. I have over 7 of them filled with beautiful memories of my travels that I would have otherwise probably forgotten about.

To me, a travel journal is much more valuable and unique than any souvenir you will ever purchase.

The journals that I have filled from my travels I will be sharing with my grandchildren in the later years which is priceless.

They make a great present for friend going travelling!

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15. Personalised Bag Tag

Always have a bag tag on your luggage! Bags can go missing and airport tags can be broken off, you will then have no way to find your bag again.

If you have a permanent bag tag with your details on it then it will be a lot easier for your bag to be located.

It’s also a good idea because sometimes people have the exact same bags as you!

When you’re getting your luggage off the carousel you can easily check that it’s actually your bag with a personalised tag.

If you know someone going travelling who doesn’t have one, consider getting this useful personalised travel gift.

Unique Travel Jewellery

16. Sterling Silver World Map Bracelet

This beautiful sterling silver bracelet in the shape of the world is a gorgeous present to give to someone who is an avid traveller or maybe a gift to give yourself!

It’s a thoughtful gift that won’t take up any room in their luggage and it’s a very unique present to give to a loved one, friend or a gift for daughter travelling abroad.

17. Travel Watch

This is not only a fun gift to give the traveller in your life, but a very useful one. Everyone needs a watch , right? Why not have one that has a beautiful face of a world map?!

They make great little presents for someone going travelling – every time they check the time they’ll think of you!

Fun Travel Themed Home Décor

18. Scratch World Map

If you don’t have a scratch map of the world yet, then where have you been?! These are a unique travel gift for someone who loves travelling!

When you have visited a country or region simply scratch to reveal a fun, colourful background.

Now you can see exactly where in the world you have been, as well it’s a beautiful piece of home décor to have!

19. Travel Fund Jar

Before I started travelling, I wish I had a travel fund jar ! These are a useful gift for someone who’s saving up to go travelling.

It’s a great reminder to save those pennies!

Useful Gifts for Digital Nomads

20. Electronic Organiser

If you’re anything like me, you probably have at least 1 million different chords and cables.

This electronic organiser is immensely helpful for digital nomads or anyone who travels with lots of different electrical items.

I love mine so much and anyone who travels with lots of electrical items will too!

If you’re looking for useful travelling gift ideas for someone going travelling, chances are you’ll be a hero with this organiser.

21. Phone Lens Kit

This is a fun gift for anyone who loves phone photography! These phone lenses are small, compact and make your phone photos look 100x cooler.

For any travel friend who loves using Instagram while travelling, this might be the perfect gift for them.

22. Telescopic Pole

I’ve had this telescopic pole for years and stand 100% by it! These make perfect presents for people going travelling.

This is a tripod for your phone, GoPro and even DSLR. It’s one of the most useful pieces of kit for someone going travelling.

There are two parts to it. There is a small one which I use for my big camera like a tripod as the longer stick is not made for that kind of weight.

And then you can have the long stick to make it into a GoPro tripod! You can also use the long stick as a selfie stick for your GoPro and phone.

This is a great gift for solo travellers as it’s perfect for people wanting to take photos of themselves when there’s no one around!

23. GoPro 9 Black

I know this is one of the more expensive gifts for friends going travelling, but a GoPro is such an awesome travel gift that I HAD to include it.

The GoPro 8 shoots in 4k, takes incredible pictures in and out of the water and is just an awesome camera to have if you don’t have a lot of space.

24. Mavic 2 Pro Drone

This is the last expensive gift, but I promise you this is perfect if you have a higher budget.

Maybe you have a son, daughter or grandchild who is going travelling and wants to take their travel photography to the next level.

This Mavic 2 Pro drone captures unique and beautiful footage and photos. It’s compact, which is perfect for travelling, and is one of the most amazing gifts for someone going abroad there is!

25. Camera Strap

The camera straps that come with all cameras are…crap. They are usually extremely ugly and are not the right length. This camera strap is amazing. I have had mine for years now.

It’s a waist strap which is also unbreakable (it cannot be cut or ripped).

This is not only useful because I would rather carry my camera close around my body than over my neck, but it also makes it safer because pickpocketers cannot quickly cut the strap and run off with your expensive camera!

It’s a small price to pay for something that could save your camera from getting stolen.

26. Transcend Hard Drive

I really love my Transcend hard drive because as I travel more and more, I cannot store my photos on my computer anymore.

Having a hard drive gives you more storage and is a safe place to keep all your photos and priceless memories!

If you need gift ideas for someone planning to travel a long time, this is a must-have for a digital nomad.

27. Portable Speaker

When travelling, a portable speaker can be an absolute lifesaver.

If you’re on the beach and fancy listening to some music out loud or just fancy having a dance in your hotel room, then get a portable speaker!

A portable speaker is one of the best travel gifts for someone in my eyes! hint hint

28. RHA Headphones

These RHA headphones are the best quality ones I have ever had so I highly recommend them. They are noise cancelling so perfect for those noisy flights and bus rides.

They also last up to 9 hours, which makes them an incredibly practical present for someone going travelling. I honestly wouldn’t recommend any other brand of headphones other than these ones!

29. Polaroid Camera

These are such great travel gifts, and are perfect as a going away present for friend travelling.

Sometimes you want instant photos! These polaroid cameras are such a good way to share your memories and photos instantly.

They are great for people who have travel diaries as you can stick personalised photos of your trip as you go along making the diary much more fun and unique.

30. HP Sprocket Printer

Alternatively, you could gift one of these portable printers which I think are just as epic as a polaroid camera!

With this little printer you can instantly print off photos from your phone. From the printer app, you can edit them and then print instantly. How cool is that?!

Like the polaroid, these are good presents for someone going travelling who wants a more personalised touch to their travel journals.

Travel Books

31. What I was Doing while You were Breeding

Reading is one of the top pastimes for any traveller, which means books are ideal gifts for someone who is going travelling.

And wow, this book is so, so good! Hundreds of girls recommended this book to me because of the unique perspective, and now I am paying it forward.

It’s one for those books which is the perfect travel gift for someone who is about to or is currently travelling. Very funny!

32. Holy Cow

This is one of my favourite books ever! It’s about a woman who moved to India and recounts hilarious encounters about her life there.

If you have a friend who wants to go to India, or has been to India, they will really appreciate this book.

This is one of the best books I have ever read!

Wild is one of these books that every female traveller should read. It’s a story of bravery and a must for any solo female traveller out there.

If you know a woman going travelling, this is the perfect gift!

Fun & Unique Travel Gifts

34. Carry On Cocktail Kit

I mean, need I say more?! This is a hilarious and practical travel gift for anyone who loves a good cocktail. Let’s be honest, cocktails should be compulsory on long-haul flights.

Now you can make them yourself!

These are perfect gifts to give someone going travelling who also likes their cocktails.

35. A Tinggly Experience

If you want to give something that’s even more unique and epic than a physical gift, then you should look at a Tinggly gift box .

I have always believed in the importance of making memories and not being attached too much to physical things.

At the end of the day, if you want to give a gift that someone will never forget and can make a million memories from, then an experience is just that.

Within a Tinggly gift box, your receiver gets to choose from 340+ unique experiences which they can participate in around the world.

From going up in a hot air balloon in Luxor, Egypt to diving with sharks in the Philippines, there’s a perfect experience for everyone.

With so many options, you’ll be able to figure out what to buy someone going travelling in no time.

Plus, because you can choose special events to gift for, it even feels like a personalised travel gift.

🎁 Check prices on Tinggly

Frequently Asked Questions

A long hug is great if it’s family! Otherwise, anything on this list of gifts for someone going travelling is either bound to come in useful or be gratefully received, or both!

Frequent travellers will probably prefer practical gifts like packing cubes or adapters. If this person is a loved one, the travel watch or map bracelet on this list would be perfect!

Friendship is full of shared experiences. A personalised travel journal or a Polaroid camera would help them record their journeys so they can share them with you when they return.

There’s my HUGE list of 35 gifts for travellers of any kind! If someone you know is going travelling, you can’t go wrong with these unique travel gifts.

Be sure to share this list with your family members and friends so they know what to get you in the future!

Other articles you might love:

• Fun Etsy Gifts Perfect For a Person Who Loves to Travel
• Practical and Fun Gift Ideas For Travellers
• The Best Drone for Travel Bloggers and Travellers
• 30+ Eco friendly Products for Travellers
• 55+ Perfect Travel Gifts for Her That She’ll Love!

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Home » Travel Gear » 25 Perfect Gifts For Someone Going Travelling That Are Actually Useful

25 Perfect Gifts For Someone Going Travelling That Are Actually Useful

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here .

Need Gifts for Someone Going Travelling? Welcome to Our List! 

If you need gift ideas for someone going travelling, you’ve come to the right place! There are loads of large and small travel gifts for people who love to travel. The trick is to find gifts that they will actually want and use when they are out on the open road!

This is a topic we know quite a bit about. It’s taken a few years to refine our travel gear but we are now at a point where we’re happy with how we travel and our packing list . That said, since we travel light and lean, most larger gifts/items don’t work for us.

This makes it hard for people to buy us a good leaving present. Not because we are picky and want the best luxury travel gifts – we just travel light and we don’t usually have the room to spare!

As an “essentials only” travel duo, this list reflects useful and practical gifts that we use all the time. So, whoever you have in your life heading off on their next adventure – like friends or family going travelling – here are 25 great ideas for gifts for her or gift ideas for him!

Things to Consider When Buying Gifts For Someone Going Travelling

When buying gifts for someone going travelling, you should to consider a few buying factors before you make any purchases. We chat about a few of them below in no particular order!

Purpose:  The purpose of the gift should be pretty self-explanatory given the kind of product you buy. A camera is for taking photos and a dry towel is for towelling off, obviously.

What we mean by “purpose” is: Is your traveller in mind going to use it? Does it serve their needs? Do they need whatever it is you are buying them?

The Traveller: Have a think about their “travel style” and you’ll very quickly begin to piece together what they might need and what they might find useless.

This is not to say that you bought a bad gift – because these products are all great ideas – but does YOUR traveller need whatever you are buying them for their trip? That’s the better question to ask. 

For example, we probably wouldn’t need a neck pillow because we don’t have the space in/on our bag AND we try to take the train short distances at a time. That said, your traveller might be on long haul flight after flight so a neck pillow can be a life saver.

Price/Quality:  Obviously, you will want to have a think about the price of the gift as a buying factor. Is the gift idea even within your price range that you set out?

Is it wise to buy your traveller an expensive “thing” if they are going to a country where it might get stolen? These are things to think about.

Regarding quality, a higher price usually reflects a better quality good – but NOT always. Eric has a cheaper travel towel that he got in 2015 but it still works great for him.

It’s pretty soft and very packable! You will want to ensure product quality on an item like a combination lock, however. Those types of gifts are important to get right. Plus, a good lock can last a lifetime.

Cheap Gifts For Someone Going Travelling

There are a ton of cheap gift options for someone going travelling. Many of these are “add-on”gifts that compliment things they already have or are smaller detail-oriented gifts (like a travel lock).

You could also find out which of these smaller items your traveller doesn’t have and then buy a few of them like a “traveller sampler pack”!

Travel Journal –  Shop Now

Eric has been journalling since 2007 and – while now on his third notebook – his written ideas have spanned four continents.

His most recent journal is a leather-bound one like the one featured here. It’s durable for tossing into his backpack and the leather string keeps it closed and the pages protected.

A travel journal is a great gift for someone travelling for the first time – and they might thank you years later for it!

Travel Adapter – Shop Now

If you are travelling to or from North America to Europe, Australia, or other parts of the world, it is very likely that you’ll need a travel adapter for your electronics since otherwise you’ll not be able to charge any of them.

We have quite a few travel adapters at home since Eric with his North American prongs needs a travel adapter in Europe while Lisa with her European prongs needs a travel adapter when we are in Canada.

We really like adapters that come with USB-slots (like the one pictured above) since it means that we can charge both of our phones at the same time.

So if your person going travelling is going on an international trip, check if the plugs are different in that location. In case they are, consider getting them a travel adapter.

You can never have too many (good) travel adapters and admittedly checking the plugs at the travel destination be something that travellers often forget to think about!

Travel Towel –  Shop Now

They fold quite small and are quick drying which makes them perfect to take to the beach or even use as a blanket when having an impromptu picnic.

If your traveller is planning a backpacking or adventure trip then a travel towel is an essential item. If you know that they don’t have one yet, then this might be a perfect addition to their travel gear!

Buying for a Backpacker? –   Check Out These Great Travel Gadgets for Backpackers

Combination Lock –  Shop Now

These locks are great for locking up your valuable at hostels and often you are expected to bring your own.

Lisa actually also has a smaller combination lock that she uses to lock up her backpack (which we mention it further below).

While this might not really be necessary it gives her peace of mind when we are walking around or on a train/bus with all of our valuables in the bags.

Sleep Mask –  Shop Now

If the person going travelling has a trip planned that includes a long-distance flight or long-distance bus/train ride then getting them a sleeping mask can be a great addition.

Sometimes the light on airplanes doesn’t get dimmed and trying the sleep when the light is really bright can be a struggle that we have both been through many times.

A sleeping mask can help your traveller get more sleep that they otherwise would which allows them to reach their destination better rested.

Travel Cord Organizer –  Shop Now

Having a travel cord organizer can be a lifesaver in this case. If the person going travelling plans on taking a similar amount of electronic cords and likes to keep his/her bag or suitcase somewhat organized, then a travel cord organizer like the one above can be a super useful gift.

Small Wireless Speaker –  Shop Now

If your traveller enjoys listening to music as well and is going to be surrounded by other people, having a wireless speaker in a travel size can be a great way to bring people together.

We don’t actually own the one pictured above but Lisa is considering getting one like this for Eric. We like the hook that it comes with which makes it easy to attach to your bag or keychain if you wanted to.

Passport Cover –   Shop Now

Now that the corners of her passport are quite worn and admittedly look terrible she understands exactly why people get passport covers: to protect their passports from any potential damage or wear and tear over time.

This is quite important since your passport is literally the most important document to have with you when travelling to another country. We found the passport cover pictured above on Amazon and really like the design.

Lisa is actually considering ordering a passport cover for herself now. We think this is a great stocking stuffer or gift idea for anyone that travels abroad frequently.

Mid-Range Gifts For Someone Going Travelling

Mid-range gifts are more the kind of gifts that are travel essentials and having a good one can make or break a travel experience. A great example of this is a daypack.

A good day pack does what it is supposed to and does it well and comfortably. You then never have to worry about your choice of daypack.

A bad daypack – whether poorly made or otherwise – can be an uncomfortable hassle for the entire trip. See how important these kinds of gifts are? Here are a few more examples:

Foldable Daypack –  Shop Now  

There are quite a few different brands – Eric actually has a Herschel foldable backpack – but Lisa is a fan of the Osprey daypack .

It also comes with a couple of extra features like side pockets that some other foldable daypacks usually don’t have. If you are interested, we wrote a whole guide on buying a great daypack .

Packing Cubes –  Shop Now

Even though her backpack is great and makes it easy to keep things organized, her improvised system of packing cubes works super well.

Now, she would actually be super happy to get some actual packing cubes such as this set of five which comes in different sizes and gives the person going travelling more than enough space to organize the things they’ll take on the trip.

Lifestraw Filter Bottle –  Shop Now

However, when we visited Albania we were told to buy bottled water instead. Since we like to drink lots of water throughout the day we created quite a bit of plastic waste and it was also a hassle having to carry the big bottles of water to our apartment.

Therefore we can really recommend that you get the person going travelling a reusable water bottle with a filter straw . This way they don’t have to buy plastic water bottles and can drink tap water that will be filtered through the straw before actually entering their body.

It’s a great gift idea for someone going travelling to Central or South America as well as some parts of Asia, Eastern Europe or Africa or for a person that goes hiking frequently.

Gorillapod Tripod –  Shop Now

This is where the Gorillapod Tripod comes in since you can pretty much attach it to any tree, pole etc. and get the photo that you want.

This is a great gift idea if the person going travelling is travelling with someone else or a photography fan. There are different versions of the Gorillapod Tripod depending on how heavy the camera is that you want to attach to it.

We chose the one that would fit Lisa’s mirrorless camera (mentioned below), but if the tripod is only supposed to hold a smartphone you could get the lighter version as well.

External Battery –   Shop Now

Having an external battery with you to be able to charge your phone can be crucial if you need said phone to navigate to your hotel or on public transport.

In our opinion, this is a must-have item for any person going travelling – but can be even more important for people who use their phones to take photos since this can drain the smartphone battery quickly.

The external battery we linked to is super slim which is nice since it doesn’t take up a lot of space. This external battery can also hold enough charge to charge your phone more than once.

Fleece Jacket With Zipper –  Shop Now

This way, it’s easy to keep the most important personal belongings close to your body. It’s also a bit more secure than having these items in the pockets of your pants.

We would recommend bringing a fleece jackets to anyone going travelling to an area with frequent weather changes.

A fleece jacket keeps the traveller warm during the cold morning and evening hours but is also easy to take off and carry around during the warmer hours of the day. Seriously, consider a fleece jacket with zip pockets as the perfect practical outer layer gift.

Small Toiletries Bag –  Shop Now

Lisa has a toiletries bag that is even smaller than this one which fits the minimal amount of make-up she usually takes on trips as well as a travel-sized hair brush. In addition, she also has an airport security approved plastic bag for shampoo, toothpaste etc.

Eric has one that looks pretty much exactly like the one pictured above (but in all black) and it fits travel sized shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, a razor, and lots of other necessities easily.

So overall, if the person going travelling has to watch the amount of things they are taking, a small toiletries bag is definitely a good gift idea.

Travel Coffee Maker –  Shop Now

While we really like drinking coffee, we don’t HAVE to have it every morning. That’s why we personally don’t have a travel coffee maker.

But we also understand that there are people whose morning routine would not be complete without a cup of coffee! So, if the person you are looking to buy a gift for is like that, then this travel coffee maker might be a great gift option!

Phone Camera Lens Kit –  Shop Now

We didn’t actually know until recently that smartphone camera lenses are a a thing, but they sound super convenient. You just clip the lens in front of your phone camera and then have many more options for taking photos.

This is a great gift idea for people who usually take photos with their phones and are interested in making them look a little nicer than just snapshots.

Since the smartphone camera lenses are quite small it’s also a suitable gift for someone travelling with hand-luggage only.

Travel Wrap –  Shop Now

The travel wrap pictured above is essentially the same but specifically designed for travellers and is therefore probably even better than a normal scarf.

It is quite lightweight and folds small but is still big enough so that it can be used as a blanket on an airplane, bus, or train. That’s what Lisa likes to use her scarf for since with some cheaper airlines you don’t get a blanket for long-distance flights anymore.

Having something to wrap around you when you’re tired just makes it so much easier to fall asleep – or at least stay warm.

If the person going travelling likes to wear scarves or is similar to Lisa in this regard, then we think this travel wrap/scarf would be a great gift for them!

High-End Gifts For Someone Going Travelling

If you want to go big and get a more expensive gift, or if you know your traveller is itching for a bigger piece of travel gear, then here are a few ideas listed below.

Typically, these are gifts that you buy once and then don’t buy again for a few years (like a camera or backpack).

These are also mostly products that we already use/would recommend so we put our “Penguin Stamp of Approval” on a few of these items!

Stabilizer For Smartphone –  Shop Now

A great alternative is getting a stabilizer for your phone. While this gift is of course not for everyone, we do believe that it’s a perfect leaving present for someone going travelling who wants to capture their adventures for their family and friends at home on video without bringing an additional camera.

A phone camera stabilizer can make videos a lot smoother and improve the shooting quality to a noticeable extent. It can also be a great hint if you want your traveller to share some of their experiences with you when they are gone.

Travel Backpack –  Shop Now

This makes it easy to keep things organized in the bag – whereas Eric frequently has to take everything out of his top-loading backpack if we needs to grab something from the bottom. We chat more about comparing travel backpacks here .

If the person going travelling plans on doing a backpacking trip or just prefers NOT to travel with suitcases (which can sometimes be a struggle when walking through cobblestoney Old Towns in Europe, for example), then have a look at the Osprey Farpoint 40 .

We think it is a great size for males and females alike and have never had trouble taking it onto a plane as carry-on luggage.

Noise Cancelling Headphones –  Shop Now

Sometimes, it’s nice to just get away and listen to music – or drown out annoying sounds around you!

There are versions that fold down smaller or come with a great carrying case so have a look for the pair that works best for your traveller.

Oh, but if you do use these in the airport – make sure to watch the screens because you might run the risk of missing announcements for your flight! Check out these Bose noise cancelling headphones here .

Unique Carry-On Suitcase –  Shop Now

It can actually have great benefits, too. With more and more cheap airlines making you put your carry-on suitcase in the hold before you board the plane, there is a chance that someone mistakes your suitcase for theirs if you have one in a very generic color. Just something to think about.

The awesome colourful suitcase in the photo comes in quite a few different designs which you can check out – but of course there are also lots of other styles.

Mirrorless Camera –  Shop Now

The photos it takes when in auto-setting are great but you also have the option to shoot manual if you want.

If your traveller likes taking photos but is more of an amateur photographer than a real pro, then this mirrorless camera is a great option and gift idea!

GoPro Action Camera –  Shop Now

However, sometimes it would be nice to see what we are actually filming since unfortunately this model does not have a screen at the back.

We still think the videos so far have turned out quite decent – you can check some of them out on our YouTube Channel . Of course, you could always get a different model!

We think that a GoPro is a great gift for anyone going travelling that wants to capture some of his/her travel moments on video for the family and friends at home to see.

Also, if your traveller plans an adventure trip with water or mud involved a GoPro is definitely recommended over a normal phone or camera.

E-Book Reader –  Shop Now

That’s why Lisa is glad that she has her Kindle E-Book reader which she usually takes with her when we go on longer trips. It’s not a Kindle paperwhite but she would definitely upgrade to one when she gets a new one.

If the person going travelling is an avid reader but does not have the space to take multiple books (also remember, books can be quite heavy!), getting them an E-Book reader is a great way for them to take their reading material on a trip.

And there you have it – 25 of the best travel gifts for those heading out on their next grand tour. In the end, there are loads of good ideas out there for gifts that can make travel more comfortable, convenient, safe, and fun.

You just have to know your receiver and buy accordingly! Are you a pro at buying travel gifts? Let us know which gifts are a knockout every time!

As always, Happy Travel Gift Buying’, -L&E

• Compare flights on Skyscanner
• Check for Hotel Deals or Book A Hostel
• Get A Rental Car (depending on the destination)
• Research plug types and possibly get a travel adapter
• Go over our packing list

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

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

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

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

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Lunya washable silk pajama set

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

Dreamegg White Noise Machine

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

Ashya Passport Bolo

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

Ember Travel Mug 2

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

Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest

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

Ralph Lauren Cable Cashmere travel set

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

Zendure mini portable charger

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

Rifle Paper Co. AirTag luggage tag

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

Bellroy Tech Kit

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

Dagne Dover Seoul Dopp kit

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

Canada Goose Trillium Parka Heritage

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

Comrad Knee High Ombre compression socks

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

AeroPress coffee maker

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

Pak Réve The Wilder Bundle

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

Parks by Brian Kelley

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

Shinola The Canfield Sport

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

Filson x Chris Stapleton Traveller Bag

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

Browit silk sleeping bag

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

Simo Solis Portable Hotspot

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

Collapsible Food Tent

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

Béis The Expandable Pouch

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

Aman x 111Skin nourishing gold algae eye mask

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

Té Company Tea set

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

Four Seasons velvet slippers

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

Oui The People Body Renewal set

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

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones

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

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition

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

Verloop trio colorblock knit touchscreen gloves

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

Malin + Goetz Essential Starter Kit

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

Pi7 S2 Wireless earbuds

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

Shinola denim duffle

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

Patagonia Provisions roasted garlic mackerel

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

Lyft Gift Card

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

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole mini hip pack

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

Apollo Walker picnic backpack bag

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

Oak Essentials Mini Routine

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

Yellowstone National Park magnet

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

Away The Bigger Carry-On

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

Amalfi Coast coffee table book

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

Cadence The Bestsellers

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

Carbone print

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

1,000 Perfect Weekends: Great Getaways Around the Globe

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

Allbirds Tree Dasher

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

Noshinku refillable pocket hand sanitizer (three-pack)

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

1Mii Bluetooth 5.0 adapter

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

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

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

Nodpod eye mask

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

Alex Mill The Perfect Weekday Tote

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

Lay-n-Go drawstring toiletry bag

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

Mountain Valley Train Puzzle

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

Ceremonia The Scalp Power-Duo

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

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

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

Parachute Waffle Robe

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

Papier travel notebook

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

Go Neck Pillow

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

Béis The Weekender Bag

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

Welly Adventure Kit

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

Mzoo contoured sleep mask

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

Ugg Scuffita slide slipper

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

Upoy charging station

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

Mansur Gavriel Soft Lady Bag

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

Paravel Packing Cube Quad (set of four)

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

Diptyque Orphéon Eau de Parfum

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

Airbnb gift card

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

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

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

Polaroid Hi·Print 2x3 Pocket Photo Printer

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

Sabah slip-ons

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

Nixon Wizard Stick Beverage Sling

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

Hinoki Wood Rice Ball Mold

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

Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide

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

The Carried Away Convertible Backpack

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

Bokksu snack box subscription

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

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book

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

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November 7, 2023 By Lyndsay

53+ Great Gifts for Friends Going Abroad They’ll Actually Be Excited To Take With Them

• 1.1 World Voltage Adaptor and Converter
• 1.2 Portable Phone Charger
• 1.3 Travel Journal
• 2.1 What are the best gifts for someone moving abroad?
• 2.2 1. World voltage adaptor and converter
• 2.3 2. Portable phone charger
• 2.4 3. A Travel Clean Kit
• 2.5 4. A portable muscle massage gun
• 2.6 5. Travel journal
• 2.7 6. Pay for their luggage to get shipped to them with Luggage Forward
• 2.8 7. Wireless, noise-canceling headphones
• 2.9 8. AirTags
• 2.10 9. Stainless steel water bottle
• 2.11 10. DSLR Camera
• 2.12 11. Cash in the local currency
• 2.13 12. A gift card to their favorite store
• 2.14 13. Give them an experience in their new home
• 2.15 14. A care package of food from home
• 2.16 15. A travel guidebook for their new home country
• 2.17 16. A subscription to Going
• 2.18 17. A high-quality carry-on
• 2.19 18. A great day bag
• 2.20 19. Create a photo book of memories
• 2.21 20. Give them a language-learning subscription
• 2.22 21. A VPN subscription
• 2.23 22. Kindle Paperwhite
• 2.24 23. Compression packing cubes
• 2.25 24. Handheld luggage scale
• 2.26  25. Dock & Bay Beach Microfiber Towel
• 2.27 26. Travel-sized umbrella
• 2.28 27. Travel document organizer
• 2.29 28. High-quality SSD hard drive
• 2.30 29. Personalized luggage tag
• 2.31 30. Personalized recipe book
• 2.32 31. A cookbook with recipes from their new country
• 2.33 32. A small personal safety device
• 2.34 33. Small toolset
• 2.35 34. Flexible tripod and Bluetooth remote
• 2.36 35. American measuring cups
• 2.37 36. Portable kitchen scale
• 2.38 37. Personalized photo blanket
• 2.39 38. Travel-sized compact printer
• 2.40 39. Create a playlist with your favorite music
• 2.41 40. Portable Bluetooth speakers
• 2.42 41. GoPro HERO11
• 2.43 42. Selfie stick
• 2.44 43. Long-distance touch bracelets
• 2.45 44. Beard care kit
• 2.46 45. Instant camera
• 2.47 46. Menstrual Cup
• 2.48 47. Solis mobile hotspot
• 2.49 48. A Swiss Army Knife
• 2.50 49. Securing luggage straps
• 2.51 50. Add-A-Bag Luggage Strap
• 2.52 51. Scrubba Portable Wash Bag
• 2.53 52. A scratch-off world map
• 2.54 53. Rumpl The NanoLoft Puffy Blanket
• 3 Practical Gifts for Someone Moving Abroad: FAQs
• 4 The Best Gifts for Friends Going Abroad: Wrap-Up

This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.

If you’re thinking about going away gift ideas for friends overseas or family members who live abroad, you might be wondering whether you should choose a present that’s practical or something sentimental.

Sometimes, the most perfect gift will appear and it will be both! But part of the fun, or stress, is deciding.

Finding great gifts for friends going abroad is tough, but hopefully, you’ll find a fun gift that makes sense specifically for them from this gift guide!

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Editor’s Choices: Gifts for Someone Traveling Abroad

World voltage adaptor and converter.

With an average of 4.5 stars from more than 3,960 reviews, the FOVAL International Travel Adaptor and Voltage Converter is one of the most practical gift ideas for someone moving to another country.

Portable Phone Charger

With an average of 4.5 stars from more than 45,600 reviews, the Anker PowerCore 20,100mAh Portable Charger is the best gift for a friend going abroad.

Travel Journal

With an average of 5 stars from more than 220 reviews, giving your loved one a travel journal is a perfect, sentimental going-away gift for a friend moving overseas.

The Greatest Gifts for Friends Going Abroad

What are the best gifts for someone moving abroad.

1. DSLR Camera 2. Portable phone charger 3. Wireless, noise-canceling headphones 4. AirTags 5. World voltage adaptor and converter 6. Stainless steel water bottle 7. Travel journal 8. Cash in the local currency 9. A gift card to their favorite store 10. Give them an experience in their new home 11. A care package of food from home 12. A travel guidebook for their new home country 13. A subscription to Going 14. A Travel Clean Kit 15. Pay for their luggage to get shipped to them with Luggage Forward 16. A high-quality carry-on 17. A great day bag 18. Create a photo book of memories 19. Give them a language learning subscription 20. A portable muscle massage gun 21. A VPN subscription 22. Kindle Paperwhite 23. Compression packing cubes 24. Handheld luggage scale 25. Dock & Bay Beach Microfiber Towel 26. Travel-sized umbrella 27. Travel document organizer 28. High-quality SSD hard drive 29. Personalized luggage tag 30. Personalized recipe book 31. A cookbook with recipes from their new country 32. A small personal safety device 33. Small toolset 34. Flexible tripod and Bluetooth remote 35. American measuring cups 36. Portable kitchen scale 37. Personalized photo blanket 38. Travel-sized compact printer 39. Create a playlist with your favorite music 40. Portable Bluetooth speakers 41. GoPro HERO11 42. Selfie stick 43. Long-distance touch bracelets 44. Beard care kit 45. Instant camera 46. Menstrual Cup 47. Solis mobile hotspot 48. A Swiss Army Knife 49. Securing luggage straps 50. Add-A-Bag Luggage Strap 51. Scrubba Portable Wash Bag 52. A scratch-off world map 53. Rumpl The NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

1. World voltage adaptor and converter

Numerous countries have different-shaped power plugs; your friend will likely need an adapter to connect their electronic items to a power source after moving abroad.

Rather than spending money on new products, it’s easier for movers to invest in an adaptor that can connect their electronics to the power source.

My favorite universal travel adapter is the  FOVAL International Travel Adaptor Power Step Down 220v to 110v Voltage Converter .

Despite its small size, a FOVAL International Travel Adaptor is compact, easy to transport during a move, and simultaneously powers multiple devices, including health devices like CPAP machines.

Since I moved to Europe, I’ve brought it all around the continent with me, and it’s been the perfect solution.

It even has four USB ports along with its two type B outlets!

2. Portable phone charger

If your friend is like me,   I am never around a power source when my phone needs to be recharged for the day.

Having a phone without battery power can be exceptionally inconvenient when learning to navigate a new city.

Depending on your friend’s destination, they may or may not have access to charge their smartphone in their new city.

The  AnkerPowerCore 20,100mAh Portable Charger is the best solution for charging a smartphone on the go.

This power bank is an external battery weighing under 13 oz. and can charge the average smartphone multiple times before needing to be recharged itself.

When the external battery runs out of power, it can be recharged at their new home or hotel room.

Giving this thoughtful gift to your friend abroad will ensure that their smartphone has enough battery power to help them access valuable information needed during their move and beyond.

It saved my phone almost every day all around New York City and abroad –it’s the perfect practical gift!

3. A Travel Clean Kit

Airport terminals, train stations, bus stations, and taxis have always been dirty environments.

Frequent travelers are more conscious of the bacteria and viruses they’re exposed to while in public spaces.

Your friend’s destination city might have different social expectations for how people conduct public health and hygiene practices.

Giving your friend a Travel Clean Kit will prepare them for crowded travel environments.

They’re also a lightweight gift, as each Travel Clean Kit includes a single-use seat cover, facial mask, sanitizing alcohol wipes, and shoe covers. 

4. A portable muscle massage gun

Traveling and moving abroad is stressful, both emotionally and physically.

Even just a long flight can induce uncomfortable muscle tension, let alone the neverending stress that comes from planning a move and then adapting to the new environment.

Your friend may not have the opportunity to immediately find a masseuse or chiropractor in their new hometown.

Instead, you can provide them with a massage gun as an amazing gift solution to massage away their muscle tension.

I like the Theragun Mini  because of its portable size and 150-minute battery life.

Also, this massage gun is quieter than others on the market, small enough to be included in a backpack, and can be used on plane flights or train rides without disrupting your friend’s fellow passengers. 

5. Travel journal

Giving your friend this  travel journal is one of the more personal, really affordable gift ideas for friends overseas.

I like this journal option because you can customize the exterior of the journal with your friend’s name and favorite color.

Your friend will have the opportunity to journal and transcribe the details about their new adventure abroad.

Unlike social media, your friend will have a space to record intimate details about their trip that they may not want publicly shared. 

6. Pay for their luggage to get shipped to them with Luggage Forward

We’ve all heard the luggage horror stories.

My friend loves to retell the time when her underwear exploded across a busy airport because of a luggage mishap.

Although it makes for a great story, I know I certainly don’t want to experience that kind of scenario firsthand.

Moving requires more packing and luggage than someone needs for a simple vacation.

And, keeping track of multiple luggage items can be overwhelming, heavy, and expensive.

Rather than transporting several bags throughout an airport, pay for  Luggage Forward  to ship your friend’s luggage directly to their new home.

Gifting this service will help your friend have peace of mind during their move because they’ll only need to travel with a few items.

Their energy will be directed towards getting to their destination instead of monitoring their life’s possessions in airports and bus terminals. 

7. Wireless, noise-canceling headphones

Planes and trains are loud and noisy; standard headphones can’t provide their users with a listening environment capable of drowning out environmental sounds.

Noise-canceling headphones help eliminate distracting noises from the local environment so that listeners can enjoy their audio.

If your friend is moving by plane or train, ensure they have a pair of high-quality noise-canceling headphones for their trip.

Since I like to listen to music or podcasts to pass the time during long transit hours, my go-to noise-canceling headphones are the  Bose QuietComfort 45 .

These headphones are exceptionally comfortable to wear for several hours at a time.

Also, these noise-canceling headphones have some distinguishing features that set them apart–mini microphones that measure the surrounding noise to adapt the sound quality to the surrounding environment. 

Just yesterday, I ran around for 20 minutes looking for my misplaced keys and wished I had an AirTag attached to them.

Similar to a Tile Mate , an  AirTag is an Apple accessory that prevents people from losing and misplacing their valuable items. They can also be helpful to find stolen and pick-pocketed items.

If your friend loses an object with an AirTag attached, they can search for its location using an Apple product, like an iPhone or iPad.

This awesome gift is basically a fancy keychain capable of being tracked by radar. After noticing an item is missing, your friend can use the Find My app on their Apple device to figure out the item’s location. 

9. Stainless steel water bottle

Reusable water bottles are a must for anyone on the go. I prefer using stainless steel because plastic bottles have been shown to leach BPAs into water.

Also, unlike glass, stainless steel is durable and doesn’t shatter when dropped on hard surfaces.

I’ve been using a  S’well water bottle for years now, and it’s held up well despite numerous drops and dishwashing cycles.

They’re one of my favorite gifts for someone moving abroad who’s mindful of their water consumption and anyone who wants to save money by filling their bottle with free water.

It’s also one of my top zero-waste travel essentials since I contribute to less waste by not utilizing single-use plastic bottles. 

10. DSLR Camera

Moving abroad is an exciting experience, which is why I recommend giving a DSLR Camera as one of the best gifts for friends going abroad.

A DSLR camera will allow your friend to capture the unique adventures they experience on their new journey–in higher quality and more professional detail than their smartphone.

My favorite DSLR Camera to travel with is the  Nikon D3500 . The Nikon D3500 camera model is an excellent option for beginner and seasoned photographers.

With an on-screen guide instructing users on composing and improving their photography skills, they can easily snap crisp photos and capture HD video.

Your friend will be capturing Instagram-worthy travel pics in no time. 

Additional Camera Specs for the Nikon D3500:

• 11-Point Autofocus
• Bluetooth Capabilities 
• 24.8-Megapixel CMOS Sensor 
• ISO 100-25,600 
• 1080/60p Full HD Video Recording 

11. Cash in the local currency

The process of moving abroad is exhausting. Your friend will likely travel across several time zones with very little sleep–I did!

After reaching their destination, they will need to exchange their money for their new country.

Be one step ahead of your friend and get them local currency using Xe Currency .

It’s my favorite currency exchange service because they offer competitive exchange rates and can deliver the exchanged currency efficiently.

Their app is also user-friendly and has an offline ability to quickly check an exchange rate between monies.

Providing your friend with some money in the local coin will give them the ability to head straight to their new living accommodations to rest after transit and adjust to the local time zone. 

12. A gift card to their favorite store

If your friend has already moved abroad or if they plan to do so soon, consider giving them a gift card to their favorite online retailer.

Maybe they’d love an Apple gift card to buy a new phone, or an Amazon gift card since they ship almost anywhere.

This way, they’ll be able to shop from home without having to worry about shipping costs or buy something they didn’t realize they needed until they arrived. 

Just make sure to read the fine print–there are often restrictions on using gift cards out of the country they were purchased in.

13. Give them an experience in their new home

It takes time to get acquainted with a new city.

While it would be great to send them on a Contiki to get acquainted with their new home, multi-day guided trips might be out of your price range.

However, if your friend is moving to a large city, help them explore the local attractions by purchasing an experience through  GetYourGuide ,  Viator , or  Go City Pass .

I think this is one of the best farewell gifts for a friend going abroad because it forces them to experience a city in ways that might be out of their budget or comfort zone. 

14. A care package of food from home

Send your friends some curated tasty treats to help them fight off homesickness.

While I’m sure your friend will enjoy experiencing the local cuisine, they’ll love having a personal stash of comfort foods in their new home.

I love receiving a gift box from Packed with Purpose because they have exceptionally tasty treats. Also, the company directs its profits towards benefiting suppliers that serve specific communities and the environment.

A Packed with Purpose bundle is a present you’ll feel good about giving and a physical gift your friend will love receiving. 

15. A travel guidebook for their new home country

When moving to a new place, I like to read tons of travel guides and blogs about my new destination.

Travel guides give me realistic expectations for what to expect in the country and city of my new home, and quality books highlight the local attractions.

I like to find my travel guides on  Amazon because the reviews and “bestseller” ratings help me choose the best guides specific to my destination.

A travel guide is one of the best gifts for overseas friends because it will give them all the best information about their new hometown in their native language. 

16. A subscription to Going

One of the best gifts for people going abroad is the ability to fly affordably. Flight expenses are one of the priciest hassles about moving abroad–especially if it means flying over an ocean.

The price of airfare can be a barrier for your friend to make special visits back home or keep them from traveling around to other incredible places near their new city.

However, there are some fantastic resources out there to help cut costs on flight expenses.

Purchasing a subscription to Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights ) has been one of my favorite methods for saving money on flight expenses.

Flight Experts at Going discover flight deals specific to your preferred airports and notify you of the flight deals.

Subscribers have noted saving nearly 90% on flight fees when using this subscription service. 

17. A high-quality carry-on

I learned the hard way that a carry-on bag can make or break a flight experience.

On my last international trip, I ran through the Amsterdam airport with a broken 2-wheel carry-on suitcase and a heavy backpack with straps that dug into my shoulders.

I barely made it to my connecting flight because the luggage kept breaking, and the pack was so disorganized that it was difficult to find any of my travel essentials inside.

After vowing to never use either of those again, I now use a  Hynes Eagle Travel 40L Backpack , a  Samsonite Mobile Solutions Spinner Carry-on , and a Take OFF Luggage Personal Item Suitcase  as more user-friendly options.

The backpack has excellent built-in organization and is made specifically for carry-on dimension requirements.

And this 4-wheel carry-on is perfect, with front pockets for last-minute items and pretty gold zippers.

18. A great day bag

Many foreign countries use public transportation as the primary method for traveling throughout their cities.

Your friend will likely walk or use a public bus system or metro more often than back home in the United States.

I recommend anything from the range of  Samsonite backpacks as a travel gift for friends moving overseas who frequently commutes on their own without a car.

They’re stylish, durable, and can withstand holding the necessary items of an average public transportation commuter.

This one  has been my favorite while navigating New York City every day for years, and it’s held up very well. If you’re looking for other options, check out my whole breakdown of different travel bags and purses .

19. Create a photo book of memories

Just because your friend is moving overseas doesn’t mean they won’t miss you when living away.

Create a  Mixbook of your favorite memories together to give them a sentimental gift as a going-away present.

It doubles as a heartfelt token of your friendship and a tool for fighting homesickness.

I have a complete guide on creating a Mixbook if you’re interested in learning more! This memory book is also one of my favorite gifts for history buffs , too.

20. Give them a language-learning subscription

I’ve made so many mistakes mispronouncing words in foreign languages–especially Italian.

I studied Italian in school for years, and although now I live in Italy, there are still days when I butcher one of the languages of love.

While it often provides locals with some entertainment, it can be pretty embarrassing to not be fluent in the local language.

Encourage your friend to practice their new language by buying them a language learning subscription.

I love Babbel because its interactive interface makes language learning fun and easy. Also, the subscription can be accessed from smartphones, tablets, and laptops. 

And if they really want to become fluent, Rosetta Stone has been the leading language learning program for decades. 

21. A VPN subscription

Tech experts advise that everyone should use a VPN subscription as a primary way to protect their private data on electronic devices, especially when using a public internet connection.

Using a personal VPN will help prevent scammers from accessing your friend’s personal information when they log onto insecure WIFI in airport terminals, train stations, and unfamiliar cafes.

The most popular VPN service for everyday consumers is NordVPN . It’s a perfect long-distance gift since all you need to do is pay the subscription or purchase fee and send them the set-up information–no mailing required!

22. Kindle Paperwhite

If your friend loves reading books but likes to explore the world, consider giving them a Kindle Paperwhite eReader . 

This device is designed specifically for reading, with up to ten weeks of battery from a single charge, warm light view options, and allows users to read books while offline. 

Plus, since this device is waterproof, you don’t have to worry about accidentally getting wet. 

23. Compression packing cubes

Are you tired of opening your suitcase only to find all your clothes messy and unorganized?

Well, you don’t have to anymore, thanks to Bagail compression packing cubes .

These handy little packing cubes allow you to organize your luggage while saving space by compressing your clothing items into smaller spaces.

These compact packing cubes are made from soft, smooth nylon fabric that protects your clothes from wrinkles and stains.

They come in six different sizes, allowing you to keep your clothes grouped and packed perfectly.

24. Handheld luggage scale

I’m sure you’re familiar with the agonizing process of weighing your checked luggage to ensure it falls under the 50lb/23kg threshold.

Instead of worrying about whether your suitcase will be able to fly, you need a traveling luggage scale.

This portable scale by Etekcity automatically measures your bag’s weight, so you won’t get charged for excess baggage.

This scale is accurate to within 50 grams, which is less than half a pound. It has a low battery indicator and automatic shut-off function to save even more time and energy.

 25. Dock & Bay Beach Microfiber Towel

There’s nothing worse than getting ready for a trip and realizing that you don’t have any decent travel towels.

Sure, you could buy some cheap ones at the store, but why settle for something that will leave you feeling gross after your beach on the beach or your shower?

Dock & Bay Beach’s microfiber travel towels are very lightweight, making them ideal for packing and traveling.

You can fold them up and put them in your suitcase or roll them up and carry them wherever you go. 

They’re also incredibly versatile. These towels are available in a variety of different colors and patterns. They dry quickly, don’t absorb any moisture, and stay sand-free if you’re using them on the beach.

26. Travel-sized umbrella

A small, reliable umbrella is one of the best gifts for someone moving abroad.

If you’re looking for something compact, portable, and comfortable to carry, check out the Totes Mini Auto Open Close NeverWet® And Sunguard® Umbrella .

This umbrella is designed for the rain to roll right off its canopy and to block 98% of harmful UV rays, which helps protect you from sunburn and skin cancer.

It’s also easy to carry around thanks to its handy wrist strap and compact size, which fits easily into your bag or purse, making it ideal for traveling.

When it rains, simply push the button to automatically open and close the canopy. 

Whether your friend is going to the park or heading home after a day of shopping, you’ll be ready for any rainy day adventure.

27. Travel document organizer

If you’re looking for practical gifts for someone moving abroad, you can be sure they will definitely need to carry some important documents.

Luckily, Zoppen’s Multi-Purpose RFID Blocking Passport Holder & Travel Wallet can hold everything they’ll need.

This compact yet stylish wallet holds everything you need to travel safely and securely.

Inside, you’ll find a passport holder and vaccination card holder, along with 11 different compartments for storing all sorts of important documents.

There’s even a slot for holding your phone, so you don’t have to dig through your bag to retrieve it.

Plus, this wallet is RFID-blocking, which protects sensitive information from hackers who may try to steal it.

So whether you’re heading off to visit family overseas or taking a trip across the country, you can rest assured knowing that your most valuable possessions are safe.

Thanks to its sleek design, you can easily slip this wallet into your purse or backpack, making it a stylish and convenient addition wherever you go.

28. High-quality SSD hard drive

My external hard drive was one of the most essential items I brought when I moved abroad.

I have libraries of family pictures, research papers from college, and other documents that I definitely do not want to lose. 

With the Samsung SD T7 Portable External Solid State Drive 1TB , you can easily access your data anywhere thanks to its compact size and lightweight design.

A solid-state hard drive means no moving parts inside, so they don’t break as easily as a hard-disk external hard drive.

This portable drive features a USB Type C connector that allows you to connect the device directly to your computer without having to remove it from another port.

And with a capacity of 1 TB, this drive gives you plenty of room to save your favorite music, videos, and other media.

29. Personalized luggage tag

Lost luggage won’t be found without a luggage tag listing your contact information. If your friend is worried about checking their suitcase, gift them custom luggage tags.

These lightweight luggage tags are durable cast acrylic, making them extremely strong and resilient. They’re available in a variety of colors, so you can choose the color that matches your luggage perfectly.

They’re also very discreet, so your personal information can’t be read from far away–you have to get close to the luggage tag to read the information.

Pro Tip : Giving a personalized luggage tag is a perfect gift along with an AirTag is an excellent combination!

30. Personalized recipe book

When you’re looking for gift ideas for friends going abroad, give them a blank recipe book , and fill in the first few pages with your favorite recipes.

When they’re feeling homesick or missing their favorite comfort meals, they can open the book and feel connected to their loved ones by making their recipes.

And, since they’re in a new culture, it gives them a place to store recipes for the new foods they encounter. 

31. A cookbook with recipes from their new country

If you don’t really have any favorite recipes of your own to share; instead, gift them a cookbook filled with recipes from their new country.

While they’ll probably want to try every restaurant in their new area, eating out can become expensive. Having a cookbook with authentic local recipes allows them to try out these new foods in the comfort of their home. 

32. A small personal safety device

When I lived in New York City, keeping a bottle of pepper spray on my keyring always made me feel a little bit safer.

Although you can’t take pepper spray on a plane when moving abroad, you can bring a personal safety alarm.

The She’s Birdie–The Original Personal Safety Alarm is a device made by women, for women, to keep us safe. It comes with a 130dB siren and strobe light, which helps create a diversion and alert your immediate area if you’re being attacked. 

33. Small toolset

Wow, when won’t having a small toolset save you? 

Changing light bulbs, tightening the screws on your kitchen cabinets, and a million other little hang-ups that come with domestic living become incredibly more difficult when you can’t communicate what’s wrong since you don’t know the language. 

This Cartman 39-Piece Tool Set contains everything you need to perform everyday household repairs.

All the tools included in this kit are designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use, which means that they should last for years.

34. Flexible tripod and Bluetooth remote

When I first moved to Italy and started traveling around on my own, one of the things I wished I had was a lightweight tripod and Bluetooth remote to take my own pictures when I was out. 

The UBeesize Flexible Tripod is fantastic because it’s tiny enough to fit into a day bag or even a large purse and can be bent to attach at whatever height you want it.

It also comes with a Bluetooth remote, so you can take as many pictures as you’d like on your own.

35. American measuring cups

When cooking or baking, American recipes use imperial measurements. However, most of the rest of the world uses the metric system.

If your friend moving abroad loves to cook or bake, gift them a set of American measuring cups so they can always make their favorite recipes when they’re overseas.

Otherwise, you’ll have to convert the measurements every time you need to weigh flour, eggs, butter, and every other ingredient.

36. Portable kitchen scale

Another gift for the kitchen! A portable kitchen scale is another excellent gift for your foodie friend.

They’re small enough to fit anywhere and weigh everything from nuts to cookies.

You can weigh up to 5kg/11lb in your preferred unit of measurement, including ounces, grams, and milliliters.  

This digital model by Etekcity only has one piece, so your friend won’t lose any parts as they move.

37. Personalized photo blanket

Trying to figure out what to gift a friend who is going abroad? A personalized blanket is a great going away gift for a friend moving overseas since they’re thoughtful, practical, and unique. 

You create a design on Canva or Shutterfly’s system with pictures of your favorite memories together and print it on a sherpa, fleece, or plush fleece blanket, or use one of their pre-made templates.

These are perfect for cozying up on cool nights, and what better way than with your most heartwarming memories.

38. Travel-sized compact printer

I know, I know, no one prints anything anymore. But a travel-sized printer is perfect if you’re trying to figure out what to gift a friend who is going abroad for studies.

This HPRT wireless Bluetooth portable printer and case is designed to give you the freedom to print wherever you happen to be.

It’s compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux (but not Chromebooks), meaning you can print documents from almost any device you own.

It’s lightweight, compact, and has its own carrying case, which is perfect for a student abroad.

So whether your friend is heading to the airport, running off to class, or taking a trip somewhere, you can rest assured knowing they’ll have everything they need to stay productive.

39. Create a playlist with your favorite music

Bringing it back old school with a modern twist!

Instead of making a mixed tape, or burning a CD with your favorite music, create your friend moving abroad a playlist on Spotify and listening to your favorite music together–no matter where you are in the world.

40. Portable Bluetooth speakers

And for them to be blasting your favorite music on the other side of the world, they will need speakers. 

A portable Bluetooth speaker is a thoughtful gift for friends going abroad.

This compact JBL Go 3 speaker is designed to fit easily in any bag or backpack, which makes it perfect for travel. 

Plus, it has some impressive specs. The robust sound quality lets you listen to your favorite tunes wirelessly, even outdoors. And its battery lasts up to five hours on a single charge, which should last you plenty of time during your travels.

41. GoPro HERO11

If you want to gift the ultimate compact camera, a GoPro Hero 11 might be exactly what you’re after.

This waterproof action camera captures incredible footage and lets you share it instantly via live streaming.

This device is designed to capture every moment, whether you’re skiing down a mountain or hiking a trail.

Its ultra-wide angle lens lets you capture everything in front of you, and its Ultra HD filming quality means you can zoom in on any part of the frame and still get crystal-clear images.

In addition to capturing every moment, this device lets you stream your recordings directly to social media sites such as Facebook and YouTube.

Share your adventures with family and friends, and let them watch the action unfold as you record it.

It’s built to withstand harsh conditions, and its rugged design ensures that it will stay working even if you drop it in the dirt or submerge it in water.

42. Selfie stick

Since you’re on the hunt for a gift for friend going abroad, I’ve found a great one that’s both thoughtful and practical–a selfie stick !

This is such an awesome gift for anyone who loves to travel alone, as it allows them to capture memories without having to ask someone else to take photos. 

Although you can get a more basic selfie stick, the DJI Mimo gimbal stabilizer is lightweight, compact, and extendable that allows for creative angles and perfect selfies.

It features advanced 3-axis stabilization technology that compensates for unwanted movements and catches the moment with cinematic smoothness.

And, the ActiveTrack follows the subject smoothly to keep them center frame–ideal for when you want to tell a visual story.

43. Long-distance touch bracelets

One of the most meaningful presents I’ve come across is a long-distance touch bracelet .

This unique gift is designed to bridge the physical gap between two people in different locations.

The way it works is that each person wears a bracelet, and when one person touches the bracelet, both bracelets will light up simultaneously, no matter where they are in the world.

44. Beard care kit

If you’re specifically trying to figure out what to get a beard-growing friend or a gift for brother going abroad, try a beard care kit .

Growing and maintaining a beard is challenging, and even more so when they’re traveling and don’t have their products on hand.

45. Instant camera

Although we can all use our phones for easy and excellent pictures, nothing beats an instant camera .

An instant camera offers the chance to take pictures quickly and easily and get physical prints right away.

Not only is it fun and easy to use, but it’s also a great way to capture all those special moments and share or keep them as a memento of the moment.

It’s lightweight enough to carry around while traveling. Plus, they don’t require any special software or batteries–just point, shoot, and you’re done!

46. Menstrual Cup

OK, hear me out– a menstrual cup is an awesome option for a going-away gift.

Not only is it practical and more cost effective than traditional tampons or pads, but it’s also an environmentally friendly choice that your friend can use over and over again.

Especially if your menstruating friend is worried about finding period products that work for them in their new country, giving them a menstrual cup means they always have their go-to option.

And since they’re lightweight, they can add it to their travels without any added bulk or weight.

47. Solis mobile hotspot

If you’re looking for a perfect gift for your foreign-going friend, then look no further than a mobile hotspot–they’ll never have to worry about not staying connected!

When choosing a mobile hotspot, make sure you do your research–there are a few things to consider, such as data usage and speed, so find something that fits their needs.

Solis wireless hotspots  provide a secure and portable Wi-Fi connection that they can take with them wherever they go.

They use vSIM technology so no SIM cards or configuration is required, and customers can control and manage their data plan anytime.

With different plans to fit any budget, from pay-per GB to 24-hour daypasses and even monthly subscription options with extra security of VPN service if desired, and their multi-carrier mobile network, your friend will stay connected in any area by searching for the strongest available signal.

48. A Swiss Army Knife

Along with a small tool set, a Swiss Army Knife is a perfectly practical, lightweight gift. 

A good quality Swiss Army Knife is small enough to fit in any pocket or bag, and it comes with plenty of tools, such as scissors, nail files, knives, and even corkscrews.

This makes the knife really versatile–no matter what adventure your friend is embarking on, they’ll definitely find a use for their Swiss Army Knife. 

49. Securing luggage straps

If you’re friend is moving abroad to stay, they’re probably bringing more than the basic luggage allowance.

If you know they’re the ultimate over-packer, a set of luggage straps is one of those essential items that every traveler needs.

They help keep your suitcase secure, give you a way to identify it quickly in a busy baggage carousel, and reduce stress significantly when packing!

With a max force tension of over 400 lbs, you can be sure that your friend’s stuff will stay safe and secure inside their bags.

There’s no more wasted time at baggage claim when they use their new Untethered luggage straps, which make it easy to identify their bag on arrival.

50. Add-A-Bag Luggage Strap

Go with me here–there are two different kinds of luggage straps!

Looking for a farewell gift under $10? When it comes to traveling, convenience and organization are key.

That’s why the Add-A-Bag Luggage Strap is a helpful gift for any globetrotter.

Made from premium nylon material, this heavy-duty strap is designed to securely attach an additional bag or any other clothing item to your suitcase or wheeled luggage.

The carabiner clip is designed for easy opening and closing, allowing you to quickly put on or take off the strap and easily change its position.

Whether it’s a jacket, neck pillow, camera bag, or any other item, you can easily grip it with the adjustable strap, freeing up your hands and making your journey more comfortable.

51. Scrubba Portable Wash Bag

The Scrubba Portable Wash Bag is an incredible, pocket-sized portable washing machine.

At only ~5oz, the Scrubba bag not only serves as a dry or wet bag but also provides users with an electricity-free, machine-quality wash in just minutes. 

Your friend won’t have to worry about unhygienic hostel sinks or losing their delicates to industrial washers when they’ve got their own self-contained bag

It’s perfect for digital nomads or expats who don’t have access to regular laundry services.

52. A scratch-off world map

If your friend is moving to another country, they likely love to travel.

If you want to give them a unique way to document their adventures, give them the Scratch The World Travel Map .

This highly detailed scratch poster is the ultimate traveler’s map, allowing them to personalize and display their world travels.

Scratching off a new country is so satisfying. All they need is a coin to remove the gold coating over the countries and cities they have been lucky enough to explore.

As they scratch, a beautifully styled, up-to-date world map is revealed underneath in cartographic detail, including countries in different colors, their boundaries, cities, hill shading, the highest mountains, rivers, bathymetry, and state outlines.

What a way for them to showcase their travel accomplishments!

53. Rumpl The NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

I don’t know about you, but I’m almost always cold. If your expat friend experiences the same problem, an interesting gift for someone going abroad is the Rumpl The NanoLoft Puffy Blanket .

Made from 100% post-consumer NanoLoft insulation technology, this down-alternative blanket offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio, making it perfect for those cold nights abroad.

The nanometer high-elastic cloth with soft nap provides a soft and cozy feel, ensuring that you stay comfortable wherever your adventures take you.

One of the key features of this travel blanket is its ultra-lightweight and packable design.

With a blanket size is 38 x 52 inches, weighing only 0.7 lbs, and packing down to a compact 3.5 x 11 inches, it can easily fit into your backpack or luggage without taking up too much space.

Not only does the Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket come with a packable water-resistant stuff sack, it’s also machine washable and dryer safe.

Practical Gifts for Someone Moving Abroad: FAQs

International mailing is a great way to keep in touch with friends and family around the world. If you order your gifts online, sending gifts overseas is easy since you can utilize their international shipping options. However, there are many different ways to ship packages internationally on your own, depending on what country you live in. Some countries require customs forms, while others don’t. Some countries charge extra fees for importing the gift, while others may require special documentation to prove that the package is going to a friend or relative abroad. So, it pays to research the country’s mailing system in advance so you can effectively shop around, and compare prices and delivery options.

If you’re sending a gift to someone who’s moving overseas, you should consider their interests to give something that they’ll use and cherish. Check out their social media profiles like Pinterest or Instagram to get ideas for what their interests are and why they’re moving abroad to give you some ideas.

Lightweight gifts are great for traveling because they’re easy to pack and carry around. Some great examples of lightweight gifts are books like a travel journal, a personalized photo book, or cookbooks. These books are small enough to fit easily in a backpack or suitcase but are very useful or sentimental. Other popular lightweight gifts include a portable luggage scale, a microfiber towel, and AirTags. These items are inexpensive and easy to pack, and they can be used anywhere.

When you’re considering practical gifts, think about what your friend will actually use.  Some practical gifts include useful subscriptions like a VPN, language learning memberships, and discount flight alerts like Going.  Or, since everyone needs to eat, encourage them to explore their culinary skills by giving them items they’d use in the kitchen like a cookbook, measuring cups, or a kitchen scale.

The best gift for a friend who is currently studying abroad is something that will be useful for their studies.  Whether it’s a portable printer when they’re running late to class, a new pair of noise-canceling headphones to help them focus when studying, or a high-quality VPN to protect themselves online, there are plenty of options!

The Best Gifts for Friends Going Abroad: Wrap-Up

These practical gifts for someone moving abroad can bring them a little comfort from home when they’re living so far away.

I hope these gifts for friends going abroad will inspire you to find unique ways to surprise your friends overseas!

Planning your next adventure can become overwhelming. Stay organized with this free, printable travel planner!

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22 Useful Gifts for Someone Going Travelling

• Post author: Tanya Korteling
• Post published: 02/11/2023
• Post last modified: 24/06/2024

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When it comes to buying gifts for your nearest and dearest, what if they are travellers who are on the road more often than at home? What if they have little room in their bag or life for material things? What in the world can you buy as gifts for travel lovers that they’ll appreciate and that will be useful enough to actually make it on their next travel adventure? Well, we’re here to give you a helping hand, by selecting some useful gifts for someone going travelling.

These useful travel gifts are based on our favourite tried and tested items, all that we use or have used ourselves and can personally recommend as gifts. There are travel gifts for him, travel gifts for her and those that would be suitable for anyone. Here are our favourite useful, (mostly) practical, unique travel gifts that anyone with the travel bug would love to receive! Especially worth bearing in mind when holiday sales are taking place like the Cyber Monday and Black Friday Travel sales .

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What you'll find in this post

Useful Travel Gifts For Someone Going Travelling

At first, we were going to separate this post into two sections, travel gifts for her and travel gifts for him. However, it soon became clear that most are suitable gifts for anyone so we’ve mixed our twenty favourite useful travel gift ideas together in one post.

1. Backpack or Suitcase

Something every traveller with lots of travel gear needs is something to carry it all in, be it a suitcase or backpack. Just bear in mind to consider what type of trip they’re off on when you decide which would be best for them. For example, a wheeled suitcase just isn’t going to cut it if they’re off on a trekking adventure in the Himalayas or the Amazon.

Andy and I have both had several different travel bags over the years. But our favourites are Osprey backpacks – I love my Osprey Fairview 55 which has a detachable day pack.

I’ve also used a trusty Berghaus Remote as a day-pack and for trekking for about 10 years. It’s just been replaced by this fantastic upgrade.

If the thought of carrying a pack on your back all the time fills you with dread you could even consider getting a backpack with wheels. Many options are reviewed in this post on the best wheeled backpacks .

This  Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock  is perfect for hanging up anywhere, anytime you need a snooze, read a good book or catch up on some work. It’s available in a fantastic range of colours and comes in both double and single sizes. We both have hammocks like these which we use all the time. They were a permanent fixture on our balcony in Cambodia. We’d recommend buying a double, even if it’s only for one person as it’s much comfier and still won’t take up much space in their bag.

3. E-reader

Just about everyone enjoys reading whilst travelling, especially to kill time on a long flight, bus or train journey. This means a Kindle e-reader is a must to save from being overloaded with piles of books. The newest version of the   Kindle Paperwhite  is also waterproof and has twice the storage.  

4. Passport and Document Organiser

Keeping track of passports and other documents on a busy travel day can be a constant challenge and many people can’t stand wearing unattractive money belts. A great alternative to keep everything important together and organised is this   RFID Blocking Passport and Document Holder   . It comes in a wide range of colours so is a suitable gift for him or her.

5. Action Camera

Andy is the YouTuber of the two of us and he suggested the latest GoPro, the top-of-the-range GoPro HERO8 . It’s waterproof up to 10 metres and robust without any housing which makes it ideal for travellers to record their adventurous activities. This might be rather pricey as a gift for some people though, but there are plenty of cheaper action cameras on the market you could consider. 

6. Capital Cities Coffee Table Book

Get this beautiful Capital Cities Coffee Table Book by ‘Travel is Life Creators’ via Amazon.

An ode to capital cities, this book is a collaboration by 68 travel bloggers and photographers, ourselves included. Our contribution to this was Panama City which we visited during our 5 month Central America trip in 2019.

Through storytelling and photography, this amazing book showcases 118 capital cities around the World from every continent, including Antarctica.

This is a gorgeous gift for any travel lover or even a special treat for yourself.

7. How to Shit Around the World

Unfortunately, nearly all travellers have to deal with an upset stomach at some point during their travels. Turkey trots, Delhi belly, Montezuma’s revenge…call it what you will but this frank but witty best-selling book How to Shit Around the World by Dr Jane Wilson-Howarth explains how to avoid and fight back against the dreaded traveller’s tummy! This book was given to us as a leaving gift from some friends and we can vouch that it has practical advice, whilst being entertaining and amusing at the same time.

8. Multi-tool

One item that always comes in handy when travelling is a good multi-tool and this Leatherman Sidekick multi-tool  is a great option. It’s lightweight and compact and comes with fourteen handy tools including a good-sized pair of pliers (essential, according to Andy). Just what you need for any unexpected tasks or repairs.

9. Portable Power Bank

There’s nothing worse than your gadgets’ batteries dying, especially if you’re travelling in the middle of nowhere. This EasyAcc Portable Power Bank 26000 mAh   provides you with the means to recharge your gadgets at any time. I actually have the model down from this, which is brilliant, I can get four charges for my iPhone out of it. In hindsight though, I wish I’d got this one as it’s even better. With 4 USB ports and better light, it charges an iPhone up to 6 times.

10. Jewellery Organiser

This is one for the ladies, keeping jewellery organised when travelling can be a nightmare, but this Travel Jewellery Organiser  solves the problem. It has different sections for various types of jewellery to keep necklaces from tangling, earrings together and also a separate pouch for larger pieces.

11. Boxer Jocks

And one of the best travel gifts for men, these extra-comfortable, but long-lasting and hard-wearing these Under Armour Boxer Jocks , are suitable for everything from day-to-day wear to strenuous activities like mountain climbing. They are also available in different styles, materials, lengths and colours. In Andy’s opinion – “they’re the Range Rover of pants” .

12. Travel Towel

I sadly left my well-travelled, much-loved travel towel on a beach in Cambodia. What followed was a new discovery of the  Wise Owl Outfitters Travel Towel which I now wouldn’t be without.  It’s great quality, big, quick-drying and soft. It comes with a free hand towel and in a variety of great colours, obviously, I bought the green one which I love!

13. Neck Pillow

A neck pillow is something we’ve never carried with us when travelling as they’ve always seemed too bulky and definitely wouldn’t fit in our bags already crammed full of other items. That was until I spotted this great alternative Trtl Travel Pillow which as you can see isn’t bulky or heavy at all and it folds down small making it no extra hassle to pop in a bag. This would make a fantastic gift to help the traveller in your life have a cosy, comfortable and restful journey.

14. Water Filter Bottle

Environmentally friendly and sustainable travel is high on everyone’s agenda these days, or at least it should be. One way travellers can encourage and support this is by limiting or eliminating their use of single-use plastics. You can help this initiative and also encourage responsible travel by purchasing the gift of a great Water-to-Go Bottle. 

These bottles provide access to healthy, safe water anywhere in the World whilst offering a reusable, environmentally friendly alternative to single-use plastic water bottles. They have a unique 3-in-1 water filtration system that removes 99.9% of all microbiological contaminants found in water. 

We’ve partnered up with Water-to-Go and can offer all our audience two great discounts depending on where you’re located.

Just use the 15% discount code CTWT15  at the  Water-to-Go EU or Water-to-Go USA checkout. 

15. Garmin inReach Mini 2

Andy insisted I get one of these Garmin inReach Mini 2 compact satellite communicators after I had a little ‘incident’ when hiking the Menaon Trail in Greece. What should have been a six-hour hike turned into nine hours after I confused two very similar trail markers. Surrounded by dense forest with no phone signal, I had no way of contacting or being contacted by anyone, or of using Google Maps to get back on track.

By the time I found my way out of the mountainous forest to my destination, it was getting seriously close to dusk. To say Andy was worried was an understatement.

Andy insisted it was about time I got some kind of satellite device if I was to insist on continuing with my crazy hiking adventures. So after lots of research, I decided on the Garmin inReach Mini 2.

I absolutely love it and take it with me whenever I go hiking. It even came with me on my 8-week, 1,200 km Camino de Santiago walk. I probably didn’t need it for that as it’s not really off the beaten track but it was still brilliant keeping track of where I’d been and how far I’d walked. It even enabled my friends and family to follow along via a shared map.

In our opinion, the Garmin inReach Mini 2, is a must-have for any avid hiker, especially if solo or more off-the-beaten-track hiking is their thing.

16. Lonely Planet Guide or Phrasebook

Just about any book you want can be found online and downloaded these days and most people won’t want to carry books around when travelling. Having said that a Lonely Planet guidebook still makes for a great gift if it’s received in advance of a trip as it can be an invaluable resource for planning a trip.

My Dad bought us a Lonely Planet World Guide Book   for Christmas last year and when back in the UK planning our next trip we still flick through it along with the numerous other country guides we’ve left sitting on my Mum’s shelves. The Lonely Planet phrasebooks are also great and I often slip one in my bag if travelling to a new country as it can come in handy when trying to communicate.

17. Paracord

This may sound like a bizarre gift, but Andy suggested it a long time ago, and now I always carry 9  – 12 feet of paracord  woven into a bracelet. Andy carries a longer length woven into a belt. I laughed at first until I realised how useful it can be. It can be used for a huge number of things such as a makeshift belt, clothesline, tying things to your luggage or securing a door…the list goes on and on.

18. Waterproof Phone Holder

A good quality waterproof phone holder is one thing I wish someone had bought me as a gift a long time ago. I learnt the hard way how useful these can be when I went tubing in Vang Vieng, Laos . I took my iPhone and some cash in an extremely poor-quality dry bag; a couple of splashes later and my phone was water-damaged which was devastating! These Waterproof Phone Holders are great when you want to go swimming at the beach or take part in other watersports without leaving your phone and cash behind. If, however, the recipient of your gift carries multiple gadgets around with them, then our next gift may be more suitable. 

19. Dry Bag

A great gift for any traveller planning some water activities such as rafting, snorkelling, diving or kayaking is a good dry bag. This is especially important if they tend to carry electronic gadgets with them such as cameras and video cameras. An effective dry bag like the Ultra Dry Waterproof Bag will keep everything safe and dry leaving them free to enjoy their aquatic adventures without having to worry about water-logged gadgets. This also comes with a free waterproof phone holder.

20. Packing Cubes

I’d always been dubious of packing cubes in the past, but finally caved in and bought these G4free Packing Cubes   for our four-month trip to Cuba and Mexico. I have to say I cannot believe I didn’t get them before, they make packing and organising clothes so much easier, not to mention enabling much more to be squeezed into a bag.

21. Hotel Stay 

One of my all-time favourite gifts to give or receive and something that doesn’t happen very often is a surprise hotel stay. We tend to book the majority of our hotels via the Booking.com website as they usually seem to have some of the best deals.

22. Flight Ticket

Finally, of course, if money is no object you could always push the boat out and treat the favourite person in your life to a flight ticket, maybe to go along with that hotel stay.  Skyscanner is our favourite website for booking flights and we often find great bargains. Nothing like a surprise trip away to get in someone’s good books!

There are of course many other gifts you could buy your travel-loving friends and family but these are some of my and Andy’s favourite gifts for someone going travelling. I hope you find something amongst them to put a smile on the face of your loved one on that special occasion. 

What’s the best travel gift you’ve ever received?

Enjoy this post? Pin it for later!

Tanya Korteling

This post has 17 comments.

Great post! Perfect for upcoming Christmas ideas 🙂

Thankyou – have a great christmas.

There are a few items on this list that I wouldn’t mind. Lightweight clothing is something I like to use while underway.

Yes lightweight clothing always comes in handy.

This post reminds me I need a new backpack! Hmmm… maybe writing a Christmas Travel Wish List in my blog will be a great idea especially for those relatives and friends of mine who wants to give me presents from abroad (assuming haha). Advanced Merry Christmas!

Do it – drop some heavy hints 🙂

Great useful and practical suggestions. I especially recommend an e-reader. I always travel with my mini iPad as my e-reader; downloading heaps of books before I travel because I don’t know which genre I will want to read next. I love reading and only ever read books at home; never using my e-reader at home. But an e-reader is a godsend when travelling; taking up less space and weight than all the books I would need to travel with. Often guide books are available for e-readers which is a bonus.

Glad you found it useful, I too love my kindle when I’m travelling 🙂

All great suggestions 🙂 Toby feels the same way about paracord! I also asked for a lifestraw for my birthday – trying to limit the amount of plastic bottles we gulp through on our trip 🙂

Thanks, love the fact that someone else does paracord too 😀

This is a really great list of gifts!! I love the idea of a dry bag!

Thanks, the dry bag def comes in handy if you like water sports 🙂

Quite a good list of travel items here. I agree especially with the waterproof containers for your mobile phone, the waterproof bag, and the water bottles with filters.

These are all fantastic! I especially love #5, haha. Might have to add that to my Christmas list. I really like the looks of that jewelry organizer as well!

Haha – yes I liked 5 as well 🙂

Loved this, especially the cheeky flight ticket at the end! I surprised my mum with a ticket to Spain for her 50th and it was so lovely to be able to take her there!

What a lovely treat for your Mum 🙂

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55 Best Gifts for Travelers in 2024 – By Travel Experts

Written By: The Planet D

Inspiration

Updated On: February 28, 2024

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Gifts for Travelers

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

Best Gifts for Travelers under $100

1. apple air tags.

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

2. Travel Packing Cubes

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

3. White Noise Machine

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

4. The Trtl Travel Neck Pillow

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

5. Belkin Mini Surge Protector

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

6. Portable Charger and Power Bank

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

7. SleepPhones

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

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

8. BioLite AlpenGlo 250

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

Best Travel Gifts Under $25

9. clickr phone grip and expandable stand.

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

10. World Travel Adapter

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

11. Portable Luggage Scale

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

12. Travel Laundry Bag

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

13. Portable Carry-on Luggage bag

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

14. UV Toothbrush Sanitizer

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

15. Airplane Phone Holder and Tablet Holder

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

16. Airplane Moisturizing Kit

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

17. No Ordinary Eye Mask

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

Best Travel Gift Ideas for at-Home

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

18. Travel Scratch Map Deluxe

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

19. Travel Cork Globe

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

20. Wall Art World Map

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

21. Hotel Lobby Candles

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

Fun Travel Gifts for Women

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

22. Seint Beauty Makeup

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

23. The Tangle Teezer

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

24. Silk Wrap

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

25. Underwear Travel Organizer

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

26. Compression Socks

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

27. Hand-Held Portable Travel Fan

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

28. Neck Fan

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

29. Travel Jewelry Box

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

Cool Travel Gifts for Him

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

30. Leather Toiletry Bag

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

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

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

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

32. Arcteryx Delta LT Fleece

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

33. Nomad Passport Leather Travel Wallet

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

34. Tilly Hat

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

35. Travel Backpack

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

Travel gear Ideas for Outdoor Adventurers

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

36. USB Re-Chargeable Travel Headlamp

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

37. X-Brew Coffee Dripper

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

38. Sea to Summit Dry Bag Set

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

39. Leatherman Wave Multi-Tool

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

40. Wiseowl Portable Hammock

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

41. Steripen Water Purifier

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

Best Gift Ideas for Travel Photographers

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

42. Lenspen Cleaning Pens

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

43. Travel Tripod

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

44. Black Rapid Camera Strap

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

45. Sony RX100 VII

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

Luxury Travel Gifts

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

46. Level8 Luggage for Traveling

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

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

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

47. Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones

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

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

48. Kindle Paperwhite

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

49. Sony Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

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

Best Travel Gifts – Fast and Easy

50. get your guide gift card.

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

51. Luggage Tags

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

52. Passport Holder 

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

53. Passport Cover

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

54. GoToobs

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

55. Laptop Sleeve

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

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

Looking for more great travel tips and content?

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

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

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You May Also Like

36 Awesome Gifts for People who Work From Home

13 Best Adventure Travel Books to Inspire Wanderlust

33 of the Best Gifts for Outdoor Lovers and Adventurers

About The Planet D

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

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

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

Very informative gifts list for 2023

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

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

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

Thank you so much for sharing amazing travel themed gifts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Collection, Awesome Blog.

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

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

Cheers again

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hey Dave & Deb!

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

Looking forward to more awesome posts!

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

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

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

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

Great Post. Thanks for Sharing such best ideas for gifts

Great gift!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Awesome! Thanks for sharing..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A waterproof iPhone case is a must. Nice list!

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

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

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

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

I Love This Blog. Thanks for Sharing Amazing List

Thanks For Sharing Its is Awesome Gift List

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

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

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

Great ideas thank you so much for sharing with us.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Excellent article just in time for Christmas shopping!

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

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

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

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

Great gift guide for travelers all kinds.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Awesome list! Thanks.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s the best isn’t it?

Amazing Post! thanks for sharing.

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

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

Thanks! Have a happy holidays!

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

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

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

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

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

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

hank you for sharing your blog

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for a long thoughtful list of gifts!

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

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

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

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

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

Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

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

Last Updated January 8, 2024 William Tang

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

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

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

Read more about my favourite gear

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

How to get the best deals in travel

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

In This Article

Travel Gifts That Will Impress

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

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

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

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

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

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

1: Db Ramverk Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

CHECK PRICES

2: The Wander Club

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

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

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

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

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

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

3: Inspirational Travel Books

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

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

• Ultimate Journeys for Two
• Comfortably Wild

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

4: Eagle Creek Packing Cubes

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

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

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

5: Anker PowerCore Power Bank

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

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

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

6: Victorinox Travel Organizer

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

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

7: Peak Design Tech Pouch

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

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

8: Eagle Creek Sac Set

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

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

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

9: Fjallraven Hip Pack

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

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

10: Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap

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

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

11: Samsonite Tru-Frame Carry-On Luggage

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

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

12: Original Buff Headwear

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

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

13: Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks

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

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

CHECK PRICES FOR MEN

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14: Victorinox Swiss Army with Nail Clippers

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

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

15: Croakies Arc Sunglasses Strap

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

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

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

16: Travel Adapter Power Strip

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

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

17: Personalized Travel Notebook

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

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

18: Custom Engraved Acrylic Luggage Tags

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

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

19: Customized leather passport cover

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

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

20: trtl Pillow

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

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

21: Super International Power Adapter

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

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

22: Microfibre Travel Towel

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

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

23: Portable Luggage Scale

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

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

24: Travel Money Belt

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

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

25: Emergen-C

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

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

26: Sea to Summit Travelling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag

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

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

27: ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Briefs

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

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

28: Actual money belt

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

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

29: Travel pins

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

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

30: Peak Design Everyday Totepack

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

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

31: Infinity Scarf with Hidden Pockets

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

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

32: Drop Dead Gorgeous Dry Shampoo

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

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

33: Travel Jewelry Foldable Case

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

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

34: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

35: Travelzoo Travel Vouchers

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

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

36: Victorinox VX Touring 2-in-1

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

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

37: Dr. Bronner’s Organic Hand Sanitizer

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

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

38: World Maps with Pins

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

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

39: Kammok Swiftlet

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

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

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

40: Custom City Map Print

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

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

41: Travel Airport Stickers

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

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

42: Rosetta Stone

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

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

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

43: Peak Design Capture

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

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

44: Fujifilm Instax Mini 90

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

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

45: Peak Design Everyday Sling

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

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

46: LensPen

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

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

47: Backblaze

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

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

48: BioLite HeadLamp 330 Lumen

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

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

49: Kammok Roo Single

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

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

50: Kammok Firebelly Trail Quilt

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

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

51: Stuff Sack Set

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

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

52: Osprey UltraLight Dry Sack

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

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

53: SteriPen UV Water Purifier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What you should read next

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

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

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

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

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

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

Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

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

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

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

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

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

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About William Tang

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

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40+ perfect gift ideas for friends going abroad.

Thoughtful Goodbye Gifts For Friends Moving Abroad – Your Ultimate Expat Leavers Gift Guide

The expat dilemma; how can one single gift summarise everything a person means to you?

Packing a whole lot of sentiment into something material or digital, practical yet portable, is no easy task. We want our gift to reflect what our friendship means and say I love you and miss you, but without the guilt they are leaving YOU!

This post is part of our expat life series

Luggage & practical gifts for friends moving abroad, sentimental gifts for a friend whose moving abroad, useful gifts for a new destination, a few things to be aware of when buying gifts for friends moving abroad.

Whether they’re taking on the life of a digital nomad for the first time, have a new job abroad or moving through their partner’s job and starting the expat life – or the next chapter, finding the perfect gift for friends going abroad is tough.

Small, light, and portable are essential, especially as many do send their belongings many weeks ahead of actually moving and having farewell do’s. Remember, their life’s possessions may need to fit into just the suitcases they’re carrying.

We love gifts that will make them think of you every time they see it or use it. But don’t let the stress of finding something “just right” overtake the sentiment of the moment.

We’ve broken our list into practical, sentimental, and useful for their lives in a new country. We hope you find the perfect gift – or at least some inspiration – to plan that perfect farewell to a friend who means so much.

High-quality carry-on case

One thing is for certain, when your life suddenly needs to fit into just a few suitcases, you want to make sure they’re good ones!

Investing in a beautiful and practical carry-on bag is one of the most thoughtful gifts for a friend that is leaving. It will no doubt continue to follow them around the world and wherever their next posting may take them.

We have bought Samsonite cases for years, renowned for their long-lasting quality on the expat trail! Always look for a 4-wheeler carry-on case for ease of transportation through the airport.

Travel Journal

I know many of us have turned to blogs and online methods over the years to express our feelings, especially as new expats (hello, guilty!).

But hands up who still loves the written word? Let your friend capture their thoughts and feelings on paper.

A journal makes for a beautiful, personalised leaving gift for a friend going abroad, especially if you can get it embossed with their name or a personal note left inside the journal to commence their adventure and keep them motivated far from home.

Travel Journal | Duncan & Stone on Amazon

A Good Camera

The perfect way to capture pictures from their new adventure. If your friend is more about visuals than writing, this will be the ideal memory keeper for what lies ahead.

Sure smartphones take pretty good pictures these days, but studying photography is a gift that keeps on giving when a friend moves abroad this is a great opportunity to capture memories in a new way.

The Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera is an excellent alternative to heavier DSLR cameras for someone starting their photography journey.

Oh, and is your friend travelling with kids? Make sure to send them to our tips for travel photos with kids page!

Customized Keychain

A life on the move invariably seems to involve endless bunches of keys! Why not get your friend some custom keychains to help them keep track of their most valued items? You can write a meaningful message for their move that they are bound to cherish every day.

Wireless noise-cancelling headphones

An excellent gift idea for the frequent traveller.

Noise cancelling is a must for resting peacefully on trains and transport (especially on long flights) with your favourite tunes.

It may not pack as much sentiment as some of the gifts on this list, but it’s certainly a practical and thoughtful leaving gift for your friend who loves to travel.

Try these Bose SoundLink Around-Ear Wireless Headphones for the ultimate in headphone comfort.

Passport Wallet

A passport wallet can make an excellent gift for a friend moving abroad. Make it easy for them to organise those extremely important passport documents, vaccine cards, credit cards, visas, and every other important document involved in moving internationally.

Make sure if your friend has kids, you get something family-sized! (Tell me we’re not the only family that needs to travel with 10 passports!)

ZOPPEN Travel Passport Wallet on Amazon

Portable Scales

Ah yes, the all-important baggage check, especially if you’re trying to squeeze your life’s possessions into a tiny suitcase.

These hand scales are capable of weights up to 110lbs / 50kgs so they would make one of the best gift ideas with a practical purpose for friends or family members making frequent big international moves (a great way to make sure they’ve not overpacked all those last-minute leaving gifts!)

Jewellery Case

One of the things you must never pack in your container of household goods going abroad is your valuable jewellery.

Not only is it safer with you in your carry-on, some insurers simply won’t cover you for these items in your shipment.

One of the best bon voyage gift ideas for her, you don’t want a large bulky jewellery box, so to help your friend transfer her most precious items, look for a soft but safe jewellery carry case .

Stylish Luggage Tags

A small but beautiful and sentimental leaving gift for someone going abroad is some quality personalised luggage tags.

This is probably one of the last things they are thinking of buying themselves as they finish a million and one leaving jobs, so it will be seen as a great small and portable leaving gift for a friend.

We’ve talked previously about cute luggage tags for kids over here, but you can also get wonderfully personalised luggage tags for your adult friends too. Or what about a smart tag with tracking for something practical?

Talonport luggage tags with tracking on Amazon

Portable Hard Drive

Moving abroad not only does your physical life move into boxes and suitcases, but your digital life also needs to move somewhere safe.

Your computers may be moved in your shipment or consider the possibility you become separated from your laptop. Never take a risk with your important documents and get an external hard drive you can back up life’s most important files.

We use and recommend the Seagate 2TB , but have also found the WD My Passport to be excellent (and comes in a few colours – his and hers?).

And bonus points, you can even store the kid’s movies and entertainment on there, ideal for plugging into hotel room TVs, we know you can spend months living in transit!

Mobile Hotspot

You may well know the drill yourself; stuck for hours (not to mention days or weeks) in temporary accommodation or waiting for your new home wifi to be connected. Cue the mobile hot spot!

These devices work as portable Wi-Fi routers, using either a local SIM card or a built-in eSIM for making an internet connection.

You can connect multiple computers, tablets, smartphones, and anything with wifi – they’re an ideal solution when you need more than just a single mobile phone.

We have used and recommend Glocal Me U3 Mobile Hotspot .

It is one of the most thoughtful practical gifts for someone moving abroad.

Portable Charger

Along the same lines, honestly, aside from your actual electronic devices, probably the single most important thing we all need travelling these days is a reliable supply of backup power!!

A portable charger unit is a wonderful small but thoughtful leaving gift for a friend to help them stay connected.

Tile Mate Pack

It’s always during those big international moves that all-important items have a chance of going missing.

A Tile Mate (or for Apple uses an AirTag ) can be an ideal practical gift for a friend that’s leaving.

Super light, and oh so useful they make that perfect thoughtful leaving gift when you’re all out of ideas and need something last-minute!

Kindle Paperwhite

Got an avid reader? Moving abroad (repeatedly in many cases) can take its toll on your bookshelf. Why not get all their classics onto an ebook?

The likes of Kindle Paperwhite with adjustable warm light is a wonderful practical leaving gift for friends.

I’ve also recently fallen in love with the Kobo Clara with E ink technology, it’s the best for reading in the deck chair and by the beach – for when your friend gets to relax and unwind after the big move, of course.

Psst – if you’re friends moving near the beach, you can find more practical and fun beachy gift items over here .

Travel Adapter Kit

Of all the trials and tribulations of the new expat, trust us, your friend can never have enough adaptors, power boards, etc!

Nobody wants to completely replace all their appliances moving abroad, so as long as the wattage is the same, you should be able to keep using your appliances so help them with an adapter kit .

If they will be looking at a wattage conversion too (Eg US to Europe), check out something like a FOVAL International travel adaptor that allows power step down 220v to 110v.

Stylish Tech Organiser

OK, we’re nearly done with the practical leaving gifts!

But having read through this huge list of essential electronics for moving, I think you can pretty quickly see why a good tech organiser case is an essential for any friend moving abroad!

Never lose the important connecting wires or plugs they need again, a stylish travel tech organiser will keep everything in one spot to easily grab when needed.

If you’d rather something that speaks to the heart than practical, then this next set of gift ideas might just be what you’re looking for in the perfect farewell gift for a friend.

Gift a once and a lifetime experience

Has your friend lived in your location for quite a while and always talked about doing something outrange or thrilling they’ve never done before? Book it for them!

Be it that day trip to a tropical island, a thrilling zipline, or a helicopter ride over your city.

This one undoubtedly, you’ll need to set aside a budget for but an experience for them – or both or you together – that would be simply unforgettable.

Even a quick massage or paying to have their nails done before they leave can be one last chance to enjoy each other’s company and create some fabulous memories in their final days.

Memorable Painting or Artwork

Finding a local artist is one of the best ways to go when it comes to sentimental expat gifts.

Sometimes our times abroad or in one location can be fleeting, but arranging a custom artwork or a gift from a local artisan can be one of the best sentimental leaving gifts for a friend. A permanent reminder they can display in their new home of locations past.

Canvas prints can work best if their luggage is already packed as it’s light and portable.

Make Them A Photo Memory Book

Sure you’ve all exchanged hundreds of photos from those fun days out together, but time to get them in print!

Make a picture story of their experience, you can gather it from all your friends for a joint leaving gift, or something that’s special just from you.

A Final Photoshoot

Particularly great for couples and families, one last photo shoot in a memorable spot in the city you live in can be a great sentimental way of creating a lasting memory.

You can see if there’s an easy-to-book Flytographer or Localographer in your area , or reach out to your expat groups, I bet you’ll find some budding freelancers there or those with small photography businesses that will know the perfect spot.

Telepathy Long Distance Friendship Lamps

As long as both of you have a wifi connection, this is a brilliant gift to give a friend moving abroad to let them know you’re thinking about them.

You can set the lamp to over 200 different colours and as you change your lamp, it will change in your friend’s house too.

It can be a subtle way to let each other know your mood, that you need to chat soon or simply that you’re thinking of them at that moment without even needing to pick up a phone.

Coffee Table Books

A history book or coffee table picture book from the place they’ve been living in can make a wonderful expat leaving gift. This is especially great for those that are repatriating after a long time abroad and would like a lasting memory to see how much things have changed over time.

We become a part of the countries we live in, and these are memories they will want to continue to cherish forever.

Nice Glasses or Mugs

Your friend may not be able to take their booze collection over international borders, but what about a memorable set of glasses?

All the more reason you’ll need to see them again to share a drink. Every time they have a lovely drop with their new overseas friends they can still be reminded of you and the fun times you shared over a glass.

Along the same lines you could also look at drink coasters, bottle openers, kitchen utensils, or anything that when they use the item will remind them of your time together and the places they have been.

Travel Playlist

Looking for a cheap farewell gift for a friend that’s still thoughtful? This should be 100% free!

Fun to put together and no doubt bring a tear to your eye in the process! We might not have mixed tapes any more but the sentiment is most definitely still there. Think of your favourite nights out and places you’ve been.

You can gift this electronically on an SD card, for example, or what about sharing a Spotify playlist?

Jewellery can be a lovely way to express yourself and show a localised touch.

Depending on where in the world you’re leaving from there are some wonderful pieces that would be great to buy in supporting a local artisan and use materials that are native to the country you’re leaving. A hug ring makes a wonderful sentimental gift, or try some of these ideas:

Whilst the move to all electronic and keyless entry is becoming real, tell me we don’t all have a set of keys somewhere we still use!

A keychain from your hometown is a small but sweet gift that your friend can treasure abroad. (It can make the perfect accompaniment to a Tile Mate!)

This one can be a little trickier for a leaving friend you’ll need to be organised in advance as they’ll likely need to fit this in their shipment. We have picked up some wonderful pieces over the years.

Here are just a few suggestions on the types of wall art that could signify the cities they’ve lived in or the journey ahead.

We have a great guide to travel memorably over here , as well as this detailed guide to beautiful map of the world gifts that make ideal presents for a world traveller.

Photo Hanger

The ideal way to decorate their new home abroad, don’t have all those memories tucked away on a hard drive or in a photo book that never sees the time of day.

A beautiful photo display not only puts all those fabulous memories out there for everyone to see, but it will also brighten your friend’s new home too.

Photo displays can be a great talking point for new visitors to your friend’s home.

A great keepsake gift for a male friend who is moving abroad is a set of cufflinks to remind them of their roots or places past in their life. A stylish reminder of your time together.

A Gift Certificate for Your Time

This is a wonderful sentimental gift for a friend whose leaving, particularly if your budget is tight, the best thing you can give someone in those last fleeting days is you and your time.

Create your own gift certificate using a free and easy graphics tool like Canva to gift them whatever they deserve that can be cashed in by you! Hugs, and phone calls are all valid excuses!

For some more creative ideas, this could include:

• Dealing with their furniture sales
• Organising their farewell party for them
• Inspecting their property while they’re away
• Babysitting time while they prepare to move

Pet Sitting & Adoption

The same can be true for pet-sitting services too.

On some overseas moves, you cannot always travel with your furry friends on the same flight. Offering to mind someone’s pet until they can get settled at the other end can be worth more to them than any physical gift.

Similarly, very small pets like goldfish, hamsters, and guinea pigs may simply be unable to travel aboard.

Offering to adopt their beloved small pets may take a huge weight off their mind and give you both a lasting connection – albeit they don’t live forever, knowing they’ve gone to a good home can mean the world.

Donate to a charity on their behalf

Are there any causes you know that your friend supported or felt passionately about, locally or internationally?

Knowing that you’ve contributed something dear to their heart could be one of the meaningful gifts you can give a friend that’s leaving to pass on the sentiment.

Remember a great gift idea for an expat or leaver doesn’t need to be a material item.

Make a video

Videos are always fun to look back on, months and years after your international move to remember all those wonderful connections you made during your life abroad.

To help you compile the video for your friend, there are some super-easy online services that can do the collating and final product for you such as Tribute .

Make it fun if you can – try and film at various spots over the city where your friend would have hung out so there are sentimental places as well as words.

A recipe book, prefilled by friends

A wonderful sentimental gift that works brilliantly in a multi-cultural expat community.

Buy a simple blank recipe book and have all your friends contribute something from their own culture or background.

It will not only make a wonderful addition to a friend’s new home abroad but help them remember the flavours and cultural traditions that you shared together too during your expat posting.

A care package

This might need a little bit of thoughtful gift research and understanding of what is and isn’t available where they’re moving too.

Sometimes it’s favourite medicines, feminine hygiene products or confectionery – all those important little things beyond the normal grocery shop that simply aren’t available in their new destination.

Putting together a small bag or box of useful or indulgent items for their new destination could be just what they need – even better if you can hide it in their moving boxes for them to discover at the other end!! (Just don’t land them in trouble sneaking anything without their knowledge, more below!)

If you’d rather not burden your friend with too much to carry or take from their place of origin, why not focus on their destination and the exciting times that lie ahead for your friend?

An experience in their new home country

It’s quite likely the place that they’re moving to will be new to them in relative terms, so what better way for them to get acquainted with their new city than an experience,

Once they get past the packing boxes and the paperwork, get them something special to help them settle in.

What about a riverboat cruise? A foodie tour? Vouchers for their new local spa? It might feel touristy, but trust us, after the first few months it just becomes everyday life and you forget to get out there and explore your new city!

Furniture Store and Garden Centre Vouchers

OK, tell me it’s not just me who seems to end up with the pieced-together parts of others’ gardens and living rooms that won’t fit in their container or can’t be transported? And of course, friends refuse to take your cash, right?

Gift them a garden centre voucher or find out the local furniture chain they can use. A little something to put towards establishing their lives in a new city can go a very long way (especially if they’re also waiting months for a container to arrive!)

Language Subscription

Is your friend moving somewhere they’ll need to integrate locally and pick up new skills?

Try a subscription service they can learn at their own pace from any device.

Some popular ones include Duo Lingo , Babbel , and Rosetta Stone Language Learning Software .

Alternatively, you could sign them up for language classes on Lingoda. Or, join them and start speaking German today (or French, or Spanish)!

Clocks With Time Zones

Forever with your body in one country but your mind in another, such is the life of an expat. Help your friend navigate their new time zones with these handy clocks covering multiple time zones.

SEIKO Six City World Time Wall | Amazon

We’ve linked in this article to quite a few of our favourite gift sites that work with international shipping. You can find our complete collection of ideas for the best online stores for unique gifts over here.

We mentioned it at the outset but they’re really worth repeating to make sure you’re well-meaning gift isn’t taken the wrong way!

Check customs regulations where they’re moving to

Particularly if it comes along the lines of anything boozy, tobacco, religious, wood items or unprocessed foods; just check that your well-meaning gift won’t land the recipient in hot water with border control at their new destination. Remember, foreign countries might have much stricter customs rules.

Along the same lines, whilst you might want something to be a surprise when they get to their destination, don’t let it be the wrong sort of surprise. They will need to declare what they’re carrying.

Also, if it’s anything fragile they’re expected to take in their luggage, make sure the gift is presented in the appropriate carry case so they don’t need to run around last minute finding something appropriate to carry it in.

Think about weight and size

Often we don’t have much lead time when thinking about a friend’s departure so we need to be mindful of what they can take carry-on size. Even large but long gifts like posters can be troublesome; every ounce can count on an international move, so be very mindful of weight and dimensions.

Voltage can vary by country

For anything electronic, do be mindful of where they’re going. Whilst adaptors can be helpful for plug changes, voltage step-up and step-down adaptors are far more expensive.

Beware of expiry dates on vouchers

A voucher may sound wonderful for them to use, but

1. If its the country they’re leaving, will they have enough time to use it, and

2. If it’s the country they’re moving to, make sure they have time and accessibility to spend it before it expires – international moves are a big deal so give them time to settle and enjoy it.

More FAQ’s about expat leaving gifts and presents for someone moving abroad

Consider anything that’s digital or experience-based, no packing involved and easy to use at a later date when life settles down.

Think small and portable. Even if it might seem the most exciting gift, those luggage scales or key chain mementoes can be the handiest and most thoughtful thing a leaving friend can hope for.

Think of something special the two of you shared; was it the same coffee shop or bar – would some awesome coffee mugs or glasses be a wonderful reminder? A framed photo of their favourite spot, an artwork they’ve dreamt of but never indulged themselves. Think of all the senses – the smells, the sounds, the tastes, the fabrics, the landmarks. Can your find something that will reflect some or all of these in a leaving gift?

Always a tricky one as expat salaries and salaries abroad can vary vastly, as can the culture and traditions of what is expected when it comes to gifting. If your budget is low, giving time and services to your friend can mean as much as an expensive piece of jewellery or an experience.

We hope you’ve found something here for that friend moving abroad. Practical or sentimental, all are appreciated but remember nothing is more important than your memories and good wishes!

Don’t forget things like a forwarding address (yes, real addresses! You never know when you want to send a physical gift or come for a visit). Exchange emails if all you have is a Whatsapp so you have a few different ways to stay in touch.

A Few More Helpful Expat Guides

Friends coming and going can leave an enormous emotional whole in our lives.

Whilst the expat life and living abroad can undoubtedly be exciting and great life opportunities, it’s emotionally draining too for all involved – the departed, the left behind and those that need to repatriate, often before their time.

As long-term expats and involved in the expat blogging community for over a decade, some of these articles might be helpful additional reading for “leaving season”

• 15 Ways to Repatriate Well – Wanderlust & Wet Wipes
• How to Cope When Expat Friends Leave – ExpatFocus
• How to Avoid Losing Friends When Moving Abroad – Expatica

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35 Unique & Useful Small Travel Gifts They’ll LOVE!

Looking for small travel gift ideas? Need the PERFECT present for a friend going travelling or a unique gift for someone travelling abroad? Here are some gorgeous and totally useful gifts they will LOVE to travel with.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

WHY Is Finding Small Travel Gifts So Hard?

Finding gifts for friends or couples going travelling is tough. How do you find small travel gifts which are useful, pretty, practical and easy to travel with??

My friend, I get it. It can be EXHAUSTING.

I’ve been the ‘awkward one’ in my family for many years when it comes to gift buying.

We lived on boats for 15 years (= no candles or any room for ‘stuff’) and now we spend most of our time touring Europe in a motorhome . No-one ever knows what to buy me for Christmas or birthdays.

Trouble is, for travel gifts, you want something practical, thoughtful, useful, small and that they’ll actually want to use on their adventures!!

Small Gifts for Women or Friends Going Travelling

I’ve put together a list of the small travel gifts I love and use, in the hope that it will help you narrow down the search.

Whether you’re shopping for women who prefer road trips, friends going backpacking or luxury travel aficionados, there’s a travel gift for her here.

All of these useful presents for women are suitable for Christmas, birthdays or any other special occasion, so we hope you find the list useful for those hard to buy for women!

If you’re shopping for men, this list of practical presents for him might help too! 

Perfect Gift for Friends Going Travelling- Anti-Theft Backpack

This anti-theft backpack is AMAZING. Seriously, if you need a travel gift for women or indeed any friend going travelling, this is one of the most useful presents ever. 

It’s perfect for anyone who takes their camera with them when they travel- what I love is that the camera compartment is on the back, so can’t be opened by pickpockets. BUT, you can easily reach the camera itself from the side- so handy when you’re taking photos.

It will also carry a 15.6″ laptop (like my MacBook Pro), as well as LOADS of useful stuff you need whilst exploring. It’s possibly the most used travel kit I own, after my phone and camera! I’ve used it all around Jordan (renowned for pickpockets) and all over Europe without any issues.

Useful Small Travel Presents for Women- Hidden Pocket Scarf

This female travel scarf is the PERFECT gift for a friend going travelling or one who likes to travel light. I hate carrying a handbag when I’m walking around town, which is why this hidden pocket scarf is so useful.

It’s genuinely warm, and the pouch is strong enough to hold my passport, some cash and my key. I’ve also put my GoPro in there from time to time too. Again, I used it all over Jordan without any problems at all

It comes in LOADS of colours, styles and patterns- so pick the one which suits your favourite travelling woman best!

Useful Small Gifts for Women Who Love to Travel- Noise-Cancelling Headphones

I will never ever EVER get on a plane/ train/ bus without these ever again. Seriously, of all the small travel gift ideas out there, this is one of the very best.

We’ve tried many (cheaper) makes and nothing comes close to how good these noise-cancelling headphones are at blocking out screaming babies, giggling girls or snoring plane-mates. Yes, they’re expensive, but for anyone who travels regularly, it’s the PERFECT gift.

If they prefer over the ear headphones, these limited-edition noise-cancelling ones are just as good as the in-ear version.

Gifts for Friends Going Travelling- Powerbank

Powerbank with torch.

We’ve all been there- you’re happily using your phone as a camera to take a bazillion photos… and you realise your battery is dying! Not good- for many reasons, but particularly when you’re travelling in a foreign country.

I use my phone for directions, translation, booking references- EVERYTHING, so if it dies, I’m in trouble! That’s why a power bank is the perfect useful gift for a friend going travelling. I also love the torch function on this- so useful!

Powerbank with mirror

Even if you rarely wear makeup, this power bank with mirror is perfect for popping into a handbag or rucksack if you’re out for the day – the power bank is great for topping up your battery whilst you relax and take in the sights for a short while. It even comes with a cable for charging! For a female friend going travelling, it’s the perfect thoughtful small gift.

Small Travel Gifts for Women- Folding Yoga Mat

Yep, they now make folding yoga mats- and they are awesome!

For anyone (like me!) who struggles to stay fit on road trips , these are the perfect travel gift.   I always have the best intentions, but honestly, pulling the mat out of the storage unit is never as appealing as…well… sitting down and having a cup of tea (and some biscuits!)

But this mat allows me to keep it in one of the motorhome lockers, or my bag if we’re travelling by plane. It’s small enough and light enough to pop into a backpack- and durable enough to actually use!

Whether it’s a small travel gift for someone you travel with who enjoys yoga on the road, or a gift for a friend going travelling, it’s a REALLY useful present they’ll love.

Small Gifts for Friends Going Travelling- Thermos

Flasks are a brilliant gift for anyone going travelling.

Some other travel thermos mugs include:

Travel Journal- Perfect Small Travel Gift Idea for Women

A travel journal is a wonderful way for your friends to capture and record their adventures.

If they’re going on a road trip, this is the best road trip logbook for recording and remembering their adventures, as well as helpful tips and checklists to keep you organised.

Some of our other favourites include:

Gifts for Women Who Love to Travel- Travel Pillow

Anyone who travels regularly will know that being able to fall asleep in comfort is one of the most useful tricks! ‘Normal’ u-shaped travel pillows are fairly uncomfortable, but this travel pillow allows your entire upper body to stay supported whilst you sleep.

It can be used in a car/ Motorhome, on a plane or anywhere else you want to get a little rest! It folds up really small- perfect for putting into a rucksack or stashing in a cubbyhole.

Women Small Travel Gifts- Shampoo Bars

Many travellers are becoming more and more concerned with the impact we are having on the planet. The news is full of devastating stories about plastic in the ocean and destroying many beautiful beaches.

It may not feel like much, but if every person stopped using disposable toiletries and used eco-friendly products , it would make a HUGE difference and is the perfect gift for women who travel. We love shampoo bars , which have absolutely no plastic packaging at all- they even come with a cute bag to keep them in!

Useful Small Gifts for Friends Going Travelling- Compression Packing Cubes

Ok, I’ll be honest. I never really ‘GOT’ packing cubes. Surely they could never be as good as just rolling everything really tightly and squeezing it into a case? Right?

Oh, my friend, I was wrong. So so wrong. These things are GENIUS. Not all packing cubes are created equal- the REALLY good ones are compression cubes, like these. 

They allow you to pack your clothes into each pouch, and then you compress, just like you do with an overpacked suitcase. It’s genuinely incredible how much they can squeeze down and save space in your luggage. It’s the perfect useful present for any girl going travelling.

Gifts for Women Who Love to Travel- Portable Coffee Maker

I’m married to a die-hard coffee addict. Seriously- you don’t want to meet him before at least his first two cups of coffee… possibly three. Although he drinks instant when needed, he LOVES a ‘proper coffee’ as he calls it- and this portable coffee maker is perfect.

It’s compact, lightweight and can be used pretty much anywhere… even on a paddleboard, according to their marketing pictures!! It’s every travelling coffee-lovers most useful present!

Small Gifts for Female Travellers- Portable Hard Drive

It’s not sexy. It’s not cool (although just look at that red! I’m getting that one next!!) They might not even know what it is at first glance, but I use my portable hard drive daily and it’s one of the best things I’ve ever bought.

I take so many photos and videos that it’s impossible to keep them all on my phone or laptop. And after I’ve put a few on Instagram or made a Youtube video what do I do with the images??

Honestly, they sit on my hard drive… until I take them out again and do something pretty with them- like make a calendar or something. But at least I know I have all the mementoes of our trips, which is the important thing!

Portable hard drives come in a range of sizes and colours and are small and lightweight for popping in a rucksack or laptop bag. And yes, you can take them through airport security without a problem.

Women Travel Gifts- Drone

We LOVE our DJI Mavic Pro drone, but that’s one heck of a gift!! (And it’s not exactly small!)

It’s also probably more travel drone than most people need, so the DJI Mini is a great alternative. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still a pretty expensive gift, but under half the price of the Mavic Pro. Just think of the eternal love and gratitude you’d get if you got it as a gift for a friend going travelling!!

Unique Small Travel Gifts for Women

Here are some wonderful and slightly more personal women travel gifts- or gifts for female friends going travelling.

Jewellery holder- perfect gift for friends going travelling

This jewelry holder is a brilliant way to keep everything organised.

Travel Jewellery for Women

For something truly personal, pick some jewellery you think she’ll love. Just remember she’ll need to keep it safe while travelling, so choose wisely!

Personally, I LOVE this cute Pandora charm of the globe.

but here are some other ideas you might prefer:

I hope that’s helped. I’m sure your friend or loved one will be thankful for whatever you chose to give them. Let me know what you decided on.

More ideas you might find useful:

Find these useful? Looking for more gift ideas? You might also like:

• Useful gift ideas for practical men
• 20 Funny and comfy motorhome & campervan t-shirts
• 35 useful vanlife campervan gifts (that they actually WANT)
• The BEST campervan and motorhome mugs for every occasion
• Awesome campervan and motorhome stickers
• 40 motorhome gifts that owners will love!

Gift ideas for Kids

Know kids that road trip often? Here are some PERFECT gifts they will love (and so will their parents!)

• Quiet activities for kids who road trip
• 21 best children’s car games

Browse ALL of our motorhome & road trip gift ideas here

Know someone who might find these small travel gifts useful (or want to give them a hint if there’s something you want for yourself??!!) Feel free to share it with them.

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Last update on 2024-07-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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16 comments.

Amen to the power bank!! I’m always in need of a good one!

Especially a pretty one!! 🙂

Perfect list, I would actually love to have everything !!! Thanks for sharing, maybe I will just transfer it straight to my boyfriend 🙂

Ha Ha!! Drop me his email- I’ll send it to him!! 🙂

Portable coffee maker was the best things we could buy for our travels. My husband can’t go a day without a cup of coffee, so when we travel and make our own coffee it saves us lots of money. Great list!

Love this. The remote selfie button is the best! I travel solo a lot and that’s the best tool.

I love that too!! It’s so easy to use- and will just slip into your pocket! 🙂 Hope you get what you wish for for Christmas!

Such a good list of gift ideas that are so practical. Love it!

Thanks Amanda. Hope it helps you- or puts things on your own Christmas list!! 🙂

Love this guide! I recently found this and already stuff for some of my friends!

Awww- that’s really cute! I’m sure they’ll love it!!

I am very interested in a portable coffee maker, however your link to one appears to go to a selection of lush shampoo bars for hair! Could you possibly send me the link to the one that you recommend?

Hi Duncan- thanks for your comment. Here’s the one we recommend- hope you enjoy it! The links in the post have been updated too. https://amzn.to/2HxNeIi

I love the secret boots! Such a cool idea. I always take a travel journal on my trips too. Thanks for all the great suggestions 🙂

Wandering Bird hoodie needs to be added to the list. It reduces the number of sweaters and jackets that need to be packed. Your list is brilliant Thanks Sandie

Awww- glad you like the hoodie. It’s definitely my favourite travel top 🙂

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77 Unique Gift Ideas For Someone Traveling Abroad (2024) 

Amber Everywhere contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Read my privacy policy for more information.

Looking for some unique gift ideas for someone in your life who will be traveling abroad soon? I’ve got you covered!

Whether they’re going for a week or a few months, these gifts can help to set their trip off on the right foot. Whenever possible, I’ve included gear and gifts that I actually own and love, or those that I have given to others as gifts. 

When making this list, I consulted my friends who love to travel and included some of their ideas along with my own. I think any gift on this list could be a great present for the right traveler! 

To find the best gift, I would recommend that you first figure out what kind of traveler they are and how long they’ll be abroad. This will help you to determine if they’ll need lightweight, sleek gifts or if they’ll have room for something bulky like a camera. 

Gifts For Someone Traveling Abroad 

Here are some of the best gifts for someone traveling abroad. From lightweight gear to high tech gifts to small travel essentials, there’s sure to be something for the world traveler in your life. 

This list is divided into a few categories: best overall travel gifts, high tech travel gifts, travel essentials, gifts under $50, gifts under $100, and gifts for people who will be studying abroad. 

Best Travel Gifts

Here are some of the best travel gifts for your loved one’s upcoming trip. From the gear they’ll need to survive the plane ride in style to great travel books to travel essentials that will make their trip just a little bit easier, this list has something for everyone. 

1. Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones

Most any traveler would appreciate a pair of nice, noise canceling headphones. Whether you’re trying to get a little sleep on a plane, taking work calls from a hotel lobby, or just watching a movie in a hostel, a pair of noise canceling headphones can make it a bit more pleasant. 

I have an older model of the Bose QuietComforts and love them. This is the newest model , which is also highly rated on Amazon.  

Traveler’s Choice: B ose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones

2. Osprey Farpoint Bag

I’ve twice given Osprey Farpoint bags as gifts – each time to one of my younger sisters. These bags have two modes – duffel and backpack – so they’re very versatile travel bags for carry-on only trips. This bag is domestic carry-on sized, and it has comfortable, padded straps to make it easier to carry your gear while you’re on the road. 

Traveler’s Choice: Osprey Farpoint 40L  

3. Passport Holder 

A passport holder that is RFID blocking is a great gift for a new or serious traveler. Not only will it make your passport easier to find and keep track of, you can store important documents and cards safely in the inside pockets. 

Especially for a young or first time traveler , a passport holder can signify a vote of confidence in them. It’s a way of saying, “Of course you’ll need a case for your passport, you’re going to be using it a lot!”

Traveler’s Choice: Passport Holder Cover Wallet RFID Blocking Leather Card Case

4. Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed

Wild is a memoir by Cheryl Strayed that has been turned into a major motion picture. Strayed tells her story of losing her mother, then herself in the wake of her grief. She sets out to find herself on the Pacific Crest Trail, a hiking trail that spans from the Mexican border in California to the Canadian border. 

It’s a story about being young and lost, but learning to trust yourself anyway. It’s one of the best travel books I’ve ever read. 

Traveler’s Choice: Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed

5. Universal Travel Adapter Plug

Travelers who are visiting Europe will need a plug adapter to be able to charge their cell phones, laptops, and other devices. I own several of these Universal Travel Adapter Plugs and they’ve worked perfectly on all of my adventures. The bright green color is actually a bonus – I can easily find the adapter in my bag with just a glance – but you could always opt for a more neutral color if you prefer. 

Traveler’s Choice: Universal Travel Adapter Plug

High Tech Travel Gifts

Here are some travel ideas for the high tech person in your life. From power banks to cameras to cord organizers, this section covers all things tech and tech-adjacent. 

6. Power Bank

I never travel without a power bank, which I use to charge my phone at least once per day while I’m on the road. I particularly like the style with cords attached so that I don’t have to carry around an extra iPhone cord in my bag.

I love the CFIAI Portable Charger Power Bank because it has a digital display of the power bank’s battery instead of just an indicator light. It’s also the fastest charging power bank I’ve ever used – a friend borrowed it recently and couldn’t believe how quickly it charged her phone.

7.  Polaroid camera

One of the best travel tips I’ve ever heard is to take lots of photos of people. A memorable way to capture memories with friends is by bringing a retro Polaroid camera, the Polaroid Now 2nd Generation I-Type Instant Film Camera . The photos can be fun keepsakes in a world where we view most, if not all, of our photos on phones and computers. 

8.  A high quality camera 

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Mirrorless Camera with 14-42mm II R Lens was recommended by the NYT’s Wirecutter as one of the best cameras to take on vacation . This Olympus camera won the category for “when you don’t mind carrying a camera bag” because it offers far superior images to those you’d take on your smartphone. There are more compact cameras that offer the same quality in a more portable device, but this camera comes at a lower price point. 

9. Camera bag

The Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L is a well constructed and versatile camera bag. It can be adjusted to wear as a fanny pack or an over the shoulder sling, and it’s big enough to hold a camera and other essentials. The straps are a seatbelt-like material, which is comfortable and easy to use. 

For more serious photographers who carry extra lenses and need more space, consider the Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L . The larger version can fit a 13” Macbook Pro. 

10. AirTags

Never lose your luggage again by placing an AirTag in a discreet pocket. You can track an AirTag using the Find My app in your cell phone, and there’s even a built-in speaker that you can use to find your belongings, if needed. AirTags are also available in a four pack . 

The reader in your life will love a Kindle Paperwhite . This Kindle features up to 10 weeks of battery life and a display that is made to read like paper, even in bright sunlight. The device is also water resistant and capable of handling accidental submersion in the pool or bathtub.  

12. Airpods 

Airpods are a classic travel essential because they’re small, offer great sound quality, and are cordless. The 3rd Generation Apple Airpods are sweat and water resistant, offer personalized spatial audio, and up to 30 hours of total listening time on a single case charge. I love that they’re one-size-fits-all because I have small ears, but you could also opt for the pro version if you want a customizable fit. 

A tripod is a great gift for anyone with more than a casual interest in photography. The Joby JB01503 GorillaPod 1K Kit. Compact Tripod 1K Stand and Ballhead 1K is small and flexible, perfect for bringing on a trip abroad. What you lose in height you make up for in versatility and durability, as the legs can simply bend if you put them in an overstuffed suitcase. 

14. Apple Watch 

An Apple Watch would make a great gift for someone traveling abroad. The newest addition has all of the features it’s well known for, like tracking your steps and displaying your text messages. 

Travelers will also love that you can use it to pay using their Apple Wallet. Additionally, it has built in crash detection in the event of a car or other accident so that you can get emergency help more quickly. 

15. Oura Ring

Travel can be stressful, and an Oura Ring can give some useful visibility into your health and wellness status. Like the Apple Watch, the Oura Ring tracks your fitness levels, but it offers a lot more information. Each day you’ll be greeted with a “readiness score” which tells you how hard you should push on a particular day based on factors like your sleep, heart rate, and activity levels. 

16. Cord organizer

There’s almost nothing more frustrating than rummaging through your backpack looking for a cord or plug when you’re in a busy cafe and desperately need to charge your device. A travel cord organizer is a fabulous way to keep track of all of the cords for your electronics while you’re traveling. With little pockets for your cords and room for an extra charge, you can easily find the accessory you need when you need it. 

17. PopSocket and mount for your car

I love this little PopSocket mount for navigating while I’m driving. It easily attaches the vent of most any rental car, and you can easily set your phone on it (instead of having to pry apart the side grips, like some styles). The only trick is to remember to grab it when you drop your rental car, as it’s little and could easily be forgotten. 

In order to use the mount, you’ll also need a PopSocket attached to your phone. 

18. Otterbox case

I always travel with an Otterbox case because I’m prone to dropping my phone at any second. I’ve found that the Otterbox Commuter Series (double check size before ordering!) is the right combination of coverage and sleek design for me. When used in combination with a screen protector, my phone has survived some serious drops more or less unscathed. 

19. Privacy screen protector

The privacy conscious traveler in your life might appreciate a privacy screen protector. I have one for my phone and it blocks people from being able to read my emails or text messages from across the table or next to me on a plane. It’s not 100% protection, but it definitely makes a difference. 

I have the Ailun Privacy Screen Protector , which comes with a second protector for my phone’s camera lens. 

20. Laptop sleeve protector

If I’m taking a workation or generally traveling with my laptop, I always bring a sleeve protector. They protect my computer from small spills, drops, and pressure from a slightly overstuffed bag. This MOSISO Laptop Sleeve Bag has an extra pocket for a pen, notebook, or pair of headphones, so you don’t have to try to slip it into the main compartment with your computer. 

Travel Essentials

I love giving travel essentials as gifts. This list includes some of my favorite gear, including items that I’ve given as gifts to the people in my life. From day packs to luggage organizers to shampoo bars, here are some ideas to cover travelers’ basic needs and provide a little extra comfort and/or convenience when they’re on the road. 

21.  Spacious Day pack 

I own and love an older version of the Deuter Speed Lite 30L – it’s the bag I carried for my 2.5 month trip through Latin America in 2018. It’s small enough to function as a day pack while you’re walking around, but large enough to carry everything you need for a lightweight trip. 

22. Toiletry bag

For those who like to travel with a number of toiletries, including makeup, skin care, and hair products, a toiletry bag could be a great gift. This BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Travel Bag is a top seller on Amazon and people love that it is well made and has a hanging hook. Once you hang it in your hotel bathroom, you can easily reach all of your toiletries without rooting around in your luggage. 

23. Shoe bags

I am a firm believer in containing shoes within my luggage. The idea of my shoes coming into direct contact with my clothes really grosses me out – they’re shoes! They’ve been all over the sidewalk! Shoe bags help keep them separate, and look a little nicer and more put together than Ziplock bags, their household alternative. 

24. Hydro Flask water bottle

I’ve been a huge fan of Hydro Flask water bottles for years. These insulated bottles hold 32 ounces and they’ll keep your water cold, even on blisteringly hot days. The lid is prone to spilling, so you can swap it for the style with a built in straw , if you prefer. 

25. Luggage scale

I’ve spent most of my adult life traveling with a lot of luggage. Whether it’s a vacation where I want to bring back four bottles of artisan olive oil or a trip back to the US to stock up on essentials, I’m usually pushing the very limits of the airlines’ bag policies. 

Shuffling the contents of your bags around when you’re standing at the check-in counter is annoying and embarrassing, so a little handheld luggage scale can help you to prepare ahead of time. 

A portable luggage scale easily fits in my bag and helps to keep me from having to pay extra baggage fees at the check in counter. 

26. Rolling suitcase

Luggage is a great investment for any future world traveler , and it’s an area worth splurging for a nicer bag so that it will last for years. The Travelpro Crew Versapack is a well-constructed, solid suitcase with wheels that can be replaced when they wear out. It handles really well, is easy to use, and has a comfortable handle. 

27. Sunglasses

A great pair of sunglasses can be your best friend on the road. I love my Ray-bans, which hold up well even if I occasionally drop them or put them in my checked baggage. They have a ton of styles to choose from, but the Wayfarer is one of their most classic designs. 

28. Travel towel

Anyone traveling in hostels will quickly learn that the fees to borrow hostel towels can add up. When I’m traveling on a budget, I like to carry a small microfiber towel that I can use after taking a shower and quickly dry on my hostel bed. The towel can be pretty small, you’ll use it to blot the water (instead of toweling off like you would with a cotton towel). 

29. Sleeping bag liner

If you’re shopping for someone who likes to stay in hostels or other budget accommodations, they’ll probably appreciate a sleeping bag liner . A sleeping bag liner lets you sleep in comfort, even if the sheets you were given to sleep with weren’t exactly sanitized. As a bonus, they add a little extra warmth, which can be great for those times when you can’t control the heating. 

I have a silk liner similar to this one , which is comfortable, very lightweight, and warm. Mine is 8 years old and still going strong. However, a cotton or polyester liner would be cheaper and easier to care for – so it’s definitely a tradeoff.

30. Wool socks

If your loved one is traveling anywhere that might be chilly, like Ireland , a pair of wool socks might help them feel more comfortable. I love Smartwool socks, and I have a variety of styles and cuts. These light cushion hiking socks would make a great gift for the hiker in your life. 

I also like to bring a pair of thicker wool socks on my trips to keep my feet warm while I sleep, like these full cushion hiking socks .  

31. Great walking shoes

Most any trip abroad will probably involve a great deal of walking. A pair of supportive walking shoes can keep your loved one’s feet from getting overly tired or sore while they put on the miles on their trip. Allbirds are a great choice because they’re comfortable, have waterproof options, and come in a variety of colors and styles. 

32. Money belt

I like to use money belts when I travel to places known for pickpocketing. These belts allow you to slip in your credit cards, passport, and cash, then discretely tuck them into your pants. They might not look cool, but I’ve never had anything stolen from inside my money belt. 

33. Shampoo and conditioner bars

Anyone traveling with an ultra light bag will probably appreciate some shampoo and conditioner bars. While travel size shampoos and conditioners might be more familiar, they’ll need to be replaced every week or so. When I’m going for long trips out of a backpack, I can’t beat bar shampoo because it a) can’t spill, and b) can easily go in a carry on. 

34. Hiking leggings

People who love to hike in leggings might appreciate a pair of hiking leggings. Like regular leggings, they’re tight fitting and stretchy, but with extra material in the places that commonly snag or rub. These Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights are well made and come in several color choices. 

35. Protective duffel bag

These lightweight duffel bags are my secret weapon, and I almost never travel without one. They’re essentially as large as a checked bag can be and weigh very little, so you can fill nearly every ounce of the airline-allowed weight with your belongings.

Pro tip: two Osprey Farpoint bags fit almost perfectly inside of this Amazon duffel. 

*If you’re giving a gift to someone who is a carry-on only traveler, this is not the gift for them! These duffels are really only useful for travelers who like to check their bags, especially if they use a backpacking backpack or other less traditional luggage. 

Unique Lightweight Travel Gifts

These gifts are lightweight, unique items that easily fit in a carry on (with the possible exception of the tent). As someone who travels often and currently lives abroad, I’m constantly worried about the weight of my bags when I fly. So, a gift that can easily fit in my carry on without a lot of extra bulk or weight is great in my book. 

36. Compression socks

A pair of compression socks can offer a bit of relief from the swelling that people often experience while flying. These graduated compression socks from Dr. Scholl’s offer very gentle compression around the ankle to keep your feet feeling comfortable. 

37. Patagonia down jacket

A down jacket is definitely an investment, but it’s an incredibly lightweight and useful piece of gear for travel. Down jackets pack down incredibly small and are very warm for their size, provided you keep them completely dry.

Patagonia jackets certainly cost more than some others on the market, but they’re guaranteed by the company. I took my jacket in when it had small holes and they patched it for me. I even know people who have had entire jackets replaced when they ripped or were losing feathers. 

Sarong Swimsuit Cover-Ups are the perfect thing to tuck into your bag for a beach trip, especially if you’re a budget traveler. They can double as a privacy screen in hostels, a picnic blanket, a beach towel, and, of course, a swimsuit cover up. Sarongs come in plenty of colors and patterns to suit a variety of styles. 

39. Manta Sleep Mask

If you want to be dead to the world when you try to sleep, the Manta Sleep Mask is the perfect choice. It has extra space around your eyes so it’s very comfortable, and it blocks more light than traditional sleep masks. 

40.  Tilley Airflo Organic

My partner swears by Tilley hats for their durability, sun protection, and versatility. The Tilley Airflo Organic is perfect for warmer trips where you need heavy duty sun protection. As a bonus, these hats last for years and years, so they’re a great investment if they fit your personal style. 

41. trtl Travel Pillow

One of the worst parts of flying is getting a sore neck from sleeping in awkward positions in your seat. The trtl Travel Pillow offers gentle support for your neck during long flights, especially when tightly fastened. It’s soft and comfortable, and I like it better than any other travel pillow I’ve tried.

42. Sea to Summit Pour Over Coffee Maker

People who love specialty coffee will love this collapsible pour over coffee maker from Sea to Summit . It’s portable, easy to use, and can be disassembled to clean. You can use these coffee makers on the road or while camping, it’s perfect for both. 

Pro tip: it’s not absolutely necessary, but this coffee maker does work a little better (and is easier to clean) if you use it with coffee filters. 

43. Alps Mountaineering two person tent

My Alps Mountaineering tent is one of my favorite things I own. I have and absolutely adore the Chaos 2 tent , which is being phased out. However, people love its replacement, the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 2-Person Tent . I love that it’s simple to set up and take down, and it’s light enough to take backpacking. 

44. Dry bag

A dry bag is a great way to keep your belongings safe in wet conditions, be it Irish weather or a day at the beach. This Sea to Summit dry bag is well made and should last for years. These would be a great choice for anyone who will be kayaking, boating, swimming in the ocean, stand up paddleboarding, or generally in or around the water while they’re abroad.  

45. Airbnb Gift Card

With an Airbnb gift card , you can give the gift of a place to stay or an experience in their destination. These gift cards can be delivered right to their inbox so they can apply it right away with less risk of the funds going unused. 

Travel Gifts Under $50

Here are some of the top budget-friendly travel gifts for people going abroad. This list is made up of some small yet thoughtful items that would be appreciated by many world travelers .  

46. Moleskine Notebook

I love to journal and keep notes while I travel, so I always bring a Moleskine notebook on my trips. I love the extra large style of notebook for everyday use, but when I’m traveling I usually take a more modest size. Moleskine notebooks are always high quality, and they come with little extras like stickers and a bookmark that I always appreciate. 

47. Motion sickness bands

There’s nothing worse than feeling motion sick on a bus or boat while traveling. As someone who is prone to motion sickness, I rarely travel without my PSI Bands . I wear them in the car, on boats, on buses, and even sometimes on trains to help prevent motion sickness. 

They make a huge difference for me – but only if I put them on before I start to feel queasy. Unfortunately, they won’t help much once the motion sickness has started to set in. 

48. The Moth Presents: A Game of Storytelling

The Moth is a popular storytelling radio show and podcast, and The Moth storytelling game encourages people to share their stories. The cards are evocative, and there are several ways to play that you can adapt based on the group’s comfort level and attention span. 

One of my favorite cards is about summer camp – it asks you to tell a story that captures your experience of being at camp and all of the lessons it taught you about yourself. 

49.  The Hygge Game

Hygge is a conversation game based on the Danish concept of “hygge” that’s all about bringing people together and enjoying the good things in life. Some of the cards have questions that are light and breezy, while other cards contain questions about moral dilemmas. It’s the perfect game to play with old friends, new friends, or a group that you just met in a hostel. 

50. Portable door lock

I bought one of these portable door locks a few years ago and I love to travel with it. They work by creating an extra wedge in the door, so you can keep the door locked even if your sketchy Airbnb host has their own key. They’re easy to use, inexpensive, and lightweight, so I usually bring one if I’m traveling alone. 

51. Fjallraven fanny pack

Fanny packs (or hip packs, as they’re sometimes called) are making a big comeback. A Fjallraven High Coast Hip Pack is high quality, trendy, and would make a great gift for a world traveler . I love to use fanny packs to carry my passport and phone while I’m in the airport, or just for the little odds and ends that don’t fit in my pockets when I’m traveling. 

52. Luggage locks

A luggage lock is a good idea for most travelers, but you’ll need a lock if you’re planning to stay in hostels. For luggage, I like to use these locks from Forge – they’re basic but they’d deter most casual thieves. I like that I can thread the cable through the zippers of my bags, making it a little easier to use and line up than the style with a solid bar. 

Note that hostel lockers sometimes require a sturdier lock (one with steel instead of a cable), so you’ll want to also bring a padlock for those trips.  

53. Moisturizing face masks

Flying is stressful and can definitely leave your skin feeling extra dry and uncomfortable. A moisturizing face mask is a small gift that can easily fit in most any luggage and can help a tired traveler to feel more like themselves. These ORGAID sheet masks are organic and free from sulfate, alcohol, and paraben. 

54. Lifestraw

The Lifestraw is a great gift for the adventurous traveler in your life who might find themselves needing some clean water while out on the trail or even in a hostel. These devices can filter up 1,000 gallons of water and remove 99.99% of waterborne bacteria (including E. Coli and Salmonella), and 99.99% of waterborne parasites (including Giardia and Cryptosporidium).

55. Chili flakes

Maybe it’s just because I’m from Denver, but one of the foods I miss most when I’m traveling are hatch green chilis. The easiest way I’ve found to bring some hatch green chilis with me to Ireland is to buy chili flakes. This hatch green chili mix from Flatiron Pepper Co is amazing on eggs, pizza, bagels, and lots of other foods. 

I actually first received these chili flakes as a gift from a friend and now I always stock up when I have a chance to order from Amazon in the US. 

56. Compression bags for clothes

A compression bag can help you to better fit all of your clothes in your carry on while staying organized. These compression packing cubes have a double zipper design that allows you to compress your clothes without needing a vacuum.  

57. Travel first aid kit

You never know when you’re going to need a first aid kit, so it’s better to have one handy. I carried a first aid kit in my pack for years and never used it, only to be incredibly grateful I had it with me on a recent trip to Scotland. This Ultralight/Watertight Medical Kit contains essentials like moleskin, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers.  

Travel Gifts Under $100

These gifts are perfect for sending the world traveler in your life on their trip with the essentials they’ll need. From camping gear to experiences at their destination to cozy loungewear, these travel gifts under $100 will be a welcome addition to your loved one’s luggage. 

58. MSR TrailShot

I took my MSR TrailShot to filter water on the West Highland Way in Scotland and it worked perfectly. This little filter is about the size of a mug and allows you to either drink directly from the water source or fill a water bottle. You can filter up to 2,000 liters of water with the MSR Trailshot, after which point the cartridge is replaceable. 

59. Travel yoga mat

The yogi in your life might appreciate a travel yoga mat, which is a thin, portable option for anyone who likes to practice in their hotel room. I love my Manduka eKO Lite yoga mat, and the Manduka eKO Superlite Yoga Mat is the perfect travel alternative. This mat is made with 100% natural tree rubber and doesn’t contain any foaming agents or PVC. 

Note: this mat is very thin, so it’s not a great choice for everyday use for most practitioners. 

60. Irish Sea Swim Map

If you’re looking for a unique Irish gift, this Irish Sea Swim Map could fit the bill. The Irish love to swim in the sea, and this map shows (almost) all of the places one could swim when in Ireland. The map is stylish and unique, and it’s available in several materials and frames to match the decor of the recipient’s home. 

61. A tour in their destination 

Depending on the traveler, they might love to take a tour while they’re abroad! Whether it’s visiting a museum with a guide, a street art tour, or a food tasting, a tour can give insight into the culture or let them see places that they wouldn’t otherwise get to experience. Of course, always read the reviews carefully so you can gauge the quality of the tour.  

For visitors to Ireland, a Dingle Sea Safari tour would be a great gift!

62. A portable wash bag

If you’ve ever had to wash your clothes in the sink while traveling, you know what a pain it can be. A portable wash bag, like the Scrubba Portable Wash Bag , is a great way for travelers to clean their clothes more efficiently than just rubbing them together in the sink. When not in use, the Scrubba bag folds up to be pocket-sized.  

63. Dinner at a nice restaurant in their destination

When I can, I love to give experiences as gifts! A dinner at a nice restaurant is a great travel gift, provided it fits into their itinerary. I once gifted a family member dinner at Le Florimond , my favorite bistro in Paris when they visited for their honeymoon. 

64. A professional photography session

For people who love getting the right Instagram shot or sharing trip photos, a professional photography session could be a great gift for their trip. You can find professional photographers in the “experiences” section on Airbnb or by searching for photographers in their destination on Google Maps. Airbnb might be the better of the two, if available, because you’ll be able to see reviews. 

65. Vuori joggers

Vuori is a clothing brand that makes incredibly soft and comfortable athletic clothes. I own a pair of joggers from Vuori, and I think they may be the most comfortable pants I’ve ever worn. They’re perfect for lounging around a hostel, flying, and getting in some work (if you happen to be on a workation ). 

Gifts For Someone Going Abroad To Study

If someone in your life is planning to study abroad, here are a few gifts they might love. 

Sometimes students studying abroad will live with a host family . I wrote a separate post about choosing a gift for your host family , and I also have a few posts about mentally preparing for study abroad . 

66. Light therapy lamp

If the student in your life is planning to study abroad in the winter somewhere with very short days (like Ireland), a light therapy lamp could be a great gift. These lamps help to boost your mood and make winter a little more bearable. 

I have two of these lamps in my home and, despite being different brands/price points, I haven’t noticed many differences in functionality or efficacy. I’m including a photo of one of my lamps, but unfortunately couldn’t find that particular brand for this post – the lamp I linked to is very similar to mine. 

67. Comfortable backpack

Most students studying abroad will have to carry their laptops across the city on a near daily basis. A comfortable, trendy, but not overly flashy backpack might be the perfect gift for the student in your life. This Herschel Classic X-Large backpack comes in several colors and is functional, well made, and has a timeless aesthetic. 

68. Planner

I love my Moleskine planner and use it to track my days, tasks, goals, and other important information. I find that it has the perfect amount of space for me to plan my days and stay on track with my goals. 

For 2023, I bought an Alice in Wonderland themed planner and I love it – I use it everyday and appreciate the little bit of extra whimsy. 

69. Steripen

Anyone studying abroad in a country where you can’t drink the tap water (like Mexico, Ecuador, or Colombia) would probably appreciate a Steripen . These little devices work by using a UV light to sterilize the water without adding any chemicals to it or changing the flavor. I used a Steripen when traveling through Latin America in 2018 and loved it. 

Full disclosure, I did have an issue with the pen I bought after about 6 weeks of daily use, but REI replaced it for free. If I were going to live in a country where I’d otherwise need to buy bottled water, I’d definitely use a Steripen. 

70. A gratitude journal

I started a gratitude journal a few months ago and have been amazed at how well it has worked for me. I’ve started noticing how grateful I am for some of the big and little things in my life, and it’s helped me to cultivate a more positive outlook. A gratitude journal would be a great gift for someone studying abroad because it can be tough moving to a new country, making new friends, and navigating a new environment. 

71. Cozy slippers

I invested in Glerups Wool Slippers when I moved to Ireland and I fell in love with them. They’re sturdy, warm, and mold to my feet for maximum comfort. I have the bootie style at home, but the slip-on version would probably be more practical for someone studying abroad. 

These would be a particularly good gift for someone studying abroad in a chillier place, like Ireland or Scotland. 

72. Bag of their favorite candy/treats

Many, if not most, students experience homesickness part way through their study abroad semester. One comforting gift would be a box of their favorite treats – things they miss from home because they can’t find them in the new country. There’s no one-size-fits-all for items they’ll miss, so I’d recommend asking them.

This one would be even better if you shipped it to them so that it arrived a little over halfway through their semester. 

73. The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho

Studying abroad can be a time when students feel most connected with a sense of expansiveness and possibility. The Alchemist is a story about finding and following your passions, and it would be the perfect read while studying in another country. 

74. Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boots

I have a pair of Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boots and I love to travel with them, especially in the winter. They’re well made, comfortable, warm without being hot, and easy to dress up or down, depending on the situation. I have worn them on walks in Ireland, strolled through the streets of Paris in them, and even took them with me to the Arctic Circle. 

75. A 5 Year Memory Journal

I recently gave a 5 year memory journal as a gift to a friend. The concept is simple: this journal prompts you to write one sentence per day for five years, so you’ll have small snippets of your life to look back on. Just before studying abroad would be a particularly good time to start using this journal, when the student in your life will undoubtedly be flooded with emotions and new experiences. 

76. A spiral hair tie 

There’s nothing more annoying than having long hair and not being able to find the right hair tie while abroad. These spiral hair ties from Kitsch are wildly popular, comfortable, and you can apply heat to shrink them if they start to stretch out. The best part? They don’t leave a kink in your hair when you take them out. 

Studying abroad comes with a lot of incidentals, from taxis to nights out with new friends to new pants when your old ones wear a little too thin. Most any student could use a little cash, especially midway or towards the end of their study abroad program. 

Conclusion: Gifts For Someone Traveling Abroad

The best gifts for someone traveling abroad make their lives just a little bit easier on the road. Having a great pair of headphones, a versatile bag, and a passport holder will all help them to navigate their trip abroad with a little more ease and comfort. 

✅ Bose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones

The Bose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones are a great choice for travelers. Their noise canceling capabilities will block out the chatter of a cafe, a hostel, or an airport waiting area, making them a perfect gift for someone traveling abroad. 

✅ Osprey Farpoint Bag

Osprey Farpoint bags are the perfect choice for travelers who will be carrying their luggage onto the plane and/or walking a lot on uneven terrain in their destination. These bags are versatile, well made, and the straps zip away into duffel bags when needed. 

✅ Passport Holder Cover Wallet RFID Blocking Leather Card Case

A passport holder is a great gift for keeping all of your travel documents together in one place. Also, keeping your passport and travel credit cards in an RFID-blocking case can help to prevent theft. 

What to read next

13 Perfect Gifts for Friends Going Travelling

By: Author James McAlister

Choosing the right gifts for friends going travelling can be a challenging task. In fact, it’s often hard to know where to even start.

It’s quite a common question – how to find the best gifts for someone going travelling. So don’t worry if you’re struggling, you’re really not alone.

We’ve been travelling the world full time for years – we live on the road. So we know a thing or two about what makes the perfect present for someone going travelling.

This selection of awesome gifts for friends going travelling is both practical and fun.

Tips for Choosing Gifts for Friends Going Travelling

There are three main considerations to bear in mind when choosing gifts for friends going travelling. 

Firstly, the gift has to be small and light. It’s kinda awks when a friend gives you what on the face of it is a lovely, thoughtful present. But you have to leave it at home because it’s just too big. I speak from experience.

Secondly, it should be something practical that they will actually use. Most travellers like to pack light which means cutting any dead wood from their baggage. If it doesn’t have an everyday use, it won’t make the cut.

Thirdly, the very best gifts for someone going abroad are ones that enrich their travels. Items that really help enable them to squeeze the most out of every minute.

So with all that in mind, here are our top picks for the best gifts for friends going travelling. 

Travel Documents Holder

When you head overseas, you inevitably end up with a tonne of documents to keep tabs on. Plane tickets, passports, foreign money, medical certificates, travel insurance documents, the list goes on.

Nobody wants to be that person, emptying all their pockets, holding up the line at immigration when they can’t find their stuff. 

One of the most helpful gifts for friends going travelling is something that will put all of their travel documents in order. 

A travel documents holder, or travel wallet as they’re also known, is just that thing. 

So what makes a good travel wallet? There are a number of requirements that are non negotiable.

The most basic is that it needs to have enough pockets of the right size for the stuff you want to put in it. 

This one has pockets for 4 passports, 5 credit cards, boarding cards, tickets and money. There’s also plenty of space for coins, keys, and a pen. 

On the outside there’s a super handy pocket where you can pop items like a phone for easy access. 

It’s made of top quality material that will keep your friends’ documents completely safe. Not only is it waterproof but it’s also equipped with RFID blocking technology.

This means no one can scan it to glean their personal information, a common crime in many countries. This will protect their ID cards, driver licenses, and most importantly credit and debit cards from being cloned.

There’s also a wristband that makes it easy to carry and difficult to lose or leave behind. 

This is a fantastic present for someone going travelling overseas. Ours has lasted us over a decade and means we always know where all of our most important documents are.

Travel Cord Organiser

We all travel with gadgets these days, in fact they’re an essential part of the experience for most of us. Smartphones, Kindles, cameras, tablets, the list of devices is endless.

Of course, every electrical gadget requires charging for it to be of any use. So inevitably we end up packing a myriad of cables and plugs and docking station and whatnot.

Ever noticed how wires have a magical way of tangling themselves up as soon as you turn your back? Seriously though, they have a life of their own!

Like you can leave them in a draw all neatly wound, but god forbid you put more than one together. 

Because when you go to get one out, it’s as if they’ve had a wild party. They’re as twisted as a birds nest and it takes an age to sort the jumbled mess out.

Well for some reason they seem to get even more excited when they’re in a backpack or suitcase. 

And the last thing you want after a long day of travelling is to have to fight with a ball of cables just to be able to charge your phone.

Because of this, a travel cord organiser is an essential piece of kit for anyone heading away and an excellent choice of gifts for someone going travelling.

Unfortunately we were late to this and struggled for years without one. Once we got one, it literally changed our lives. 

Everything has a place, we never lose cables or plug sockets and it’s saved us untold hours of cable wrangling.

This one is durable, waterproof, and padded meaning everything inside is protected. 

It’s also super versatile. There are numerous pockets and elasticated straps providing plenty of spaces to hold accessories, cables and more in place.

Travel Journal

One of the best things about going on a trip is reminiscing about it at a later date. But with the passing of time the details often tend to get a bit hazy.

Writing a journal is a fantastic way to keep a record of those precious memories. It also makes a wonderful, lasting keepsake.

This is one of the most thoughtful and personal gifts for someone going travelling. You’ll help them create and preserve the specifics of their trip.

Moleskine are quite simply the best journals on the market, built to last and oozing class and quality.

This one is specifically designed for travellers for use in every part of a trip and they’ve thought of everything. 

The Moleskine Voyageur includes detachable packing list pages, daily planning and “to do” sections, and budget pages. In addition there’s a personal data page, a useful double page world map, and country codes and ER numbers.

And, of course, it also comes with plenty of journalling space to write comprehensive notes on the trip itself.

Moleskines are renowned for being extremely durable and this one’s no different with its hard, cloth bound cover. It’s also got an elastic strap to fasten the journal together to stop the pages getting roughed up in transit.

The thick, ivory coloured paper inside is truly luxurious and perfect for writing with ballpoints, pencils, or fountain pens.

We always carry a Moleskine with us on our travels. There’s just something romantic about jotting your musings down on a physical journal which makes it a truly wonderful gift for a friend going abroad.

Universal Plug Adaptor

This is an absolutely failproof gift for a friend going abroad. Because regardless of where they’re heading to, they will more than likely need a plug adaptor.

But more than that, these babies are super useful beyond just enabling you to plug in anywhere in the world. 

They also allow you to charge multiple devices at the same time. Plus you don’t have to carry the actual plug parts of the chargers, just your charging cables.

We actually received one of these from a friend before we set off on our very first trip. It’s been with us ever since and is undoubtedly one of the most useful things we own.

We can assure you this is one of the most perfect gifts for someone travelling abroad.

This one features two 2.4a USB and one Type C USB as well allowing for any plug. 

It also has built in surge and shock protection. This means your friend and their devices will be guarded against sudden jumps in power – quite common in many countries.

Water Filter Bottle

We are absolutely in love with our water filter bottles. Like head-over-heels verging on creepy, obsessive kinda love.

Other than our backpacks themselves, they’re probably the first things on our packing lists. Yes, even before clothes.

Because you know what? You can live without clothes. But you absolutely cannot live without clean water.

This is easily, hands down one of the best gifts for someone going travelling. Firstly, it will save them a tonne of money on bottled water. 

But more importantly it will also save the world of single use plastics, and could possibly even save their life.

Drinking bad water is unbelievably dangerous and can lead to all manner of nasty conditions and diseases. But this Water-to-Go filter water bottle makes water from virtually any source safe for drinking.

It removes 99.9999% of everything horrible including viruses, bacteria, parasites, heavy metals, and even chemicals. 

Even if your friend is going somewhere with “safe” drinking water, it could still make them ill. 

This is because the content of water is different in every location, and what’s fine for a local to drink could instantly give your amigo an upset tummy.

With a filter water bottle there’s no risk of that whatsoever. They can literally fill up from anywhere (other than the sea) and be sure the water is safe to drink. 

It’s an essential bit of kit for anyone going overseas and an ideal present for someone going travelling.

We’ve got such a good relationship with Water-to-Go that they’ve given us a 15% discount code. And you can use it too!

Order direct from their website and apply the TWWON15 at checkout for your 15% off.

Power Bank Battery Pack

Smartphones are an integral piece of travel kit these days. We use them for everything from storing boarding passes to navigating our way unfamiliar in places.

But what happens when they run out? Sure, you may not be able to post that awesome selfie on Insta. But a dead phone can also lead to some tricky, if not downright dangerous situations.

A power bank is the perfect way to avoid this happening and a cracking present for someone going travelling.

Not only will it keep their phone juiced at all times, but they’ll be able to charge all their other important devices from it as well. Kindles, tablets, speakers, bluetooth headphones, and virtually anything else that charges from a USB port.

This power bank is ideal for travelling because it has a huge capacity but weighs next to nothing. 

It allows for simultaneous high speed charging of multiple devices thanks to its huge 4.8 amp output.

Built from premium materials, it’s extremely durable and will stand up to the rigours of travel. Plus it comes with a handy little travel pouch to give it even more protection.

As a gift for a friend going abroad it’s incredibly practical. We’ve lost count of the number of times that our power bank has got us out of a sticky situation. 

Bluetooth Speaker

When we first set off on our travels, many years ago, we didn’t pack a bluetooth speaker. We assumed that headphones would do the trick.

How wrong we were. We quickly realised it’s a really essential thing for us to have in our bags.

We use ours daily in our hotel room or Airbnb to listen to music, podcasts or audiobooks. It’s also a compulsory part of our beach kit when we’re chilling out on the sand.

Of course, if your friend is travelling alone then it may not be as crucial to have a speaker. However, if you’re looking for something for a couple or group then it’s a must.

I’d go so far as to say it’s the most perfect of gifts for people going travelling if there’s more than one of them.

We got given this UE Boom speaker and can’t speak highly enough of it. It’s ideal for travelling because it’s waterproof, dustproof and drop proof, almost unbreakable and safe to use anywhere.

But most important of all, it’s got awesome sound quality. The bass is deep and accurate and the overall balance is fantastic.

For the sound quality, it’s also really small and lightweight. You can chuck it in your day pack or handbag and not notice it’s there.

If you’re looking for gifts for people going travelling who love their music, this is the one.

Look, I’m a paperback lover. I adore everything about physical books, from the smell to the feel of the pages as you turn them. 

And I promised myself that I would NEVER EVER get a soulless, digital e-reader.

But here’s the thing. It’s pretty much impossible to travel with a decent selection of books. It just ain’t practical.

So as you’ve probably guessed, without any other practical solution for reading books on the road, I eventually caved. And boy am I glad I did.

As a pretty voracious reader, my Kindle is now one of my favourite devices. I’m never without it on my travels, it comes everywhere. 

Ok sure, there’s not the same tactility to a Kindle that you have with a book. But it either matches or outperforms a book in virtually every other way.

For a start you can fit hundreds of titles onto a device that’s smaller, and weighs less than a skinny novella. 

But there’s also simple things like the fact you can never lose your page, ebooks are way cheaper (and lots of the classics are free), and you can do stuff like adjust the font size to suit your needs.

But another huge benefit that makes it one of the best gifts for someone going abroad is that they won’t have to go searching to find an English language book store if they want to pick up a book on the road.

It’s as simple as searching for it on Amazon and they will be devouring the latest novel on their reading list in seconds.

A Kindle is a fantastic gift for someone going abroad and one that will serve them for many trips and years to come.

Travel Towel

A towel might not sound like the sexiest of gifts for someone going travelling, but bear with me.

Because the right travel towel is far more than just something for your sidekick to dry their ass with when they get out of the shower. They are, in fact, versatile beyond belief.

Ours have doubled up as everything from yoga mats, picnic blankets and beach rugs, to sarongs and makeshift pillows. Put simply, every traveller needs one in their bag.

We’ve done a lot of research into the best travel towels so if you want a more detailed rundown click here . 

But if you just want the bottom line, our overall favourite travel towel is the Youphoria Microfiber Quick Dry Towel.

It’s made from unbelievably soft, extremely high quality microfiber material. This means your friend will enjoy the comfort of its lush, luxuriously soft feel on their skin.

It’s also super absorbent sucking up an incredible 5 times its weight in water. So no matter how wet they get, it’s able to do the job.

It comes in three sizes, but to make the most of its versatility we’d recommend opting for the largest. The other two are probably a little small to use as anything other than a towel.

It comes with its own mesh bag so it can be packed down to almost nothing in between uses.

Any traveller will tell you that a good travel towel is a fabulous gift for a friend going abroad. Don’t let them set off without one.

Audible Yearly Subscription

Travelling isn’t always exciting. In fact, it can get downright tedious at some times. Honest!

I’m talking waiting around for delayed flights in deserted airports or long bus journeys with no scenery to speak of. 

Plus you can’t always be running around exploring. There are times when you need nothing more than to just kick back and chill out.

So something to alleviate the boredom or provide relaxation is definitely one of the best gifts for friends going travelling. While a Kindle is perfect for book lovers, what if your friend doesn’t like reading?

Cue Audible. If you’re not already familiar with Audible, it’s Amazon’s subscription audiobook service. 

You can download both books and Audible Originals. These are titles created by storytellers specifically for Audible and not available anywhere else.

Because you can download them, it’s possible to listen to them absolutely anywhere. The only problem your friend will have is choosing from the vast selection of over half a million titles.

You can purchase a month, 3 month, 6 month or yearly subscription up front. This will entitle them to an audiobook and two Audible Originals per month for the duration.

Buy this as a gift for a friend going abroad and they’ll love you forever. And remember you every time they’re bored or chilling out with their audiobook.

Travel Game

As mentioned earlier, travelling has its low moments. Sometimes you need something to pass the time or a little pick me up.

Travel games are also a terrific way to meet people or get the party started when you’re in a group.

We always carry a pack of standard playing cards with us at a very minimum. But we also always throw a couple of awesome travel games in our bags.

We’re pretty serious game players, always have been. So we weren’t ready to stop just because we were on the road.

The solution? Find some amazing games that we could actually take with us.

The main considerations for choosing the right travel games are weight, size, and portability. Oh, and of course they also have to be wicked fun!

We have tested many, many games. I mean A LOT. In fact we’ve got an in depth post on it that covers the 41 best travel games on the market right now.

But we’ll just tell your our favourite right off the bat to save you time. 

Drum roll please… It’s DOBBLE!

Technically Dobble’s a kids game, but don’t let that put you off. It’s amazing fun for adults as well and will bring out the kid in even the most serious of travellers.

It’s actually got five different games you can play with the one deck. Each one is super simple because they’re all based on matching pictures on cards, a bit like snap. 

This is important, because on the road you might have to overcome language barriers. Plus you don’t want to have to spend half an hour explaining a game. Anyone can pick these up in seconds.

This game is sure to break down barriers and is a super cool gift for someone going travelling.

Solid Toiletries

Weight and bulk is at a premium for most people when they’re going overseas. Toiletries are one area where most people can easily cut down but aren’t necessarily aware of the options.

The best way to reduce the volume of your wash bag is to switch to solid toiletries. 

Sure, it takes a little adjustment moving from shower gel and liquid shampoo. But picking the right products makes all the difference.

This Friendly Travel Soap is specifically designed to be used for trips, making it one of the most suitable gifts for someone going abroad. As an added bonus, it can also be taken on planes in hand luggage.

It’s amazingly versatile and can be used as a shampoo, body or hand soap, shaving soap and even a deodorant. This means it can instantly replace half the contents of your friend’s toiletry bag.

The bar smells gorgeous thanks to the balanced mixture of lavender, lemongrass, peppermint and tea tree essential oils it contains. And this concoction is specially formulated so it’s antiseptic, antifungal and can also be used as an insect repellent.

You can rest assured that it’s not harming the planet either. It’s free from palm oil, parabens, sulphates, triclosan, phthalates and animal cruelty so it’s totally eco-friengly. 

Plus the soap comes boxed in recycled and recyclable packaging and there’s not a shred of plastic in sight. It really is an all-in-one wonder bar!

The Best All Round Travel Camera

An awesome camera is easily one of the most thoughtful gifts for someone going travelling you can opt for. It will allow them to capture their trip and provide them with reminders for the rest of their life.

But choosing the best camera for a trip is a difficult task. 

We actually got given this camera as a present before we set off on our trip. So we can personally attest to it being one of the best gifts for someone going abroad.

What’s so special about this camera? It’s built for any adventure.

The TG-6 Tough is waterproof, shockproof, crushproof and freezeproof, meaning it’s virtually indestructible. So whatever your friend throws at it, or wherever they’re planning on going, it’s up to the job.

But best of all, and obviously most importantly for a camera, the TG-6 Tough takes incredible photographs.

Don’t worry, your friend doesn’t have to be David Bailey either. This camera is basically a point and shoot and super simple to use. But it’s also got tonnes of cool settings to choose from for a bit more control.

It takes amazing underwater images making it great for snorkelling or beginner scuba diving. It copes with changes in altitude for things like hiking and climbing, and works great for city or landscapes.

So there you have it, the best 13 gifts for friends going travelling. Drop us a note in the comments below if you have any questions on them.

Check Out More Travel Gear

• The Best Water Bottle With Filter for Travel 2024
• The Best Towel for Travel 2024
• Best Packing Cubes for Backpacking 2024

Pin Me for Later…

Travel lover, professional writer and football (soccer) obsessive, James loves nothing more than getting outside and exploring little known corners of the globe. He’s also very partial to a drop of Guinness.

Andy & Cyndi xxx

Monday 25th of November 2019

When are you 2 going to come and visit us in Canada????

Hopefully soon!!

We have a spare room and would love you guy to come and visit!!! We are in Nelson BC a beautiful little town in the Kootenay's

Hope your both well!!!

James McAlister

Hey guys!! Great to hear from you!

That sounds absolutely fantastic, we'd love to come and visit. We're gonna email you directly to chat.

Let's get this arranged! :-)

45 Best Gifts for Friends Going Traveling in 2024

April 19, 2024   23 Comments »

Home » Blog » Travel » Travel Gear » 45 Best Gifts for Friends Going Traveling in 2024

Do you or someone you know have big travel plans coming up in 2024 matter if it’s a honeymoon, career break, digital nomad trip, weekend warrior, road trip, travel abroad, semester abroad, or even business travel – everyone needs travel gear! That’s why I put together this list of gifts for friends going traveling.

I’ve been traveling for 17 years as a travel blogger, for 11 of them I was nomadic and lived out of my suitcase, so I have developed a few gear ‘favorites’ over those years. I’ve put together a list of my favorite fun travel gifts and gear that are perfect gift ideas for someone going travelling. This isn’t just a standard list of Christmas gifts for travellers or the frequent traveler, there are some unique travel gift ideas I’ve included that have been lifesavers for my travels.

 These are all products that I’ve personally used during the last 17 years of traveling.  When you live out of a suitcase, you don’t have room for stuff in your life that isn’t great!

Table of Contents

How This Travel Gift List Works

First – I update this list every year with new things I’ve tried or remove things that are no longer available. It was last updated in November 2023.

I have split this list into categories of the types of gear you need for travel. Within each category, I have tried to include a variety of price points.

Please note, that I take travel gear really seriously. Unlike many publications, I believe that reviewing a piece of gear implies actually using that piece of gear for an extended amount of time.  I use the gear I’m writing about, not just once, but many times. This isn’t simply about getting you to shop on Amazon, it’s about getting you the best travel gear solutions for upcoming travels. 

The list is to give you ideas for cool gifts for travel buddies, for someone with an upcoming trip, or for people who are frequent travelers and constantly on the road. These are some of my favorite most important things for travel. Some are perfect gifts for women who travel.

However, I didn’t include EVERYTHING in this guide. If you are looking for specialty travel gear for a specific trip, then check out my other gear guides. Or feel free to leave me a comment below and ask me any travel gear questions!

Travel During Rainy Season Travel Gear List Winter Travel Gear List Antarctica Travel Gear List India Monsoon Season Travel Gear List Essential Hiking Gear List My Favorite Hiking and Travel Gear List My Favorite Travel Photography Gear

This list contains some affiliate links. If you choose to purchase items through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . These commissions help reduce the costs of running this site – that’s it…full disclosure.

The Best Gift Ideas for a Traveler – Give an Experience

Before I get into physical products, I want to give a shout-out to less stuff, and more experiences! Check out some of my favorite gifts for a traveler below.

1. Tinggly Experience Gift Box

Tinggly is an experience-based gift that allows you to gift a cool travel experience. There are thousands of experiences the recipient can choose from and it all comes in a great ‘gift box’ if you are one of those people who like to wrap a physical gift! I love this fun gift idea for travelers, honeymooners, staycations, and career breakers – it’s a truly unique gift. And the best part…this gift doesn’t require any space in anyone’s home!

Here’s how it works:

1. You pick this Merry Christmas Experience Collection.

2. We deliver the eVoucher via email or physical gift box in 2-5 business days.

3. They unlock their Experience Collection and book one experience. Booking is super simple! They have to visit the tinggly.com/redeem page, select the date for the experience, enter the number of attendees, and wait for the confirmation letter via email. All experience details will be there.

4. That’s it! When the day comes, the recipient gets to enjoy their experience!

Tinggly is a global gift collection of experiences people can redeem around the world. I love this gift idea for travelers, honeymooners, staycations, and career breakers – it’s a truly unique gift, that takes up no space!

Learn how to share the gift of travel

2. Get Your Guide Tours Around the World

Another fun experience-based gift any travel lover would enjoy is tours from Get Your Guide. This is a super way to supplement a trip with a city tour, cooking class, museum visit, etc. This is less adventure activity-focused than Tinggly and more city-focused. Just put in the destination your friends are traveling to and see what they offer!

Wherever your travels take you, Get Your Guide experiences show you the unique and unmissable things to do in your destination. This is perfect for adding experiences to your trip!

3. National Parks Pass for 2024

This is the favorite of all my vacation gift ideas. It’s the best travel gift idea that keeps giving ALL YEAR! Did you know that you can skip the lines at the park entrance and get a National Park Annual Pass from REI? It’s so simple! Plus REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation, and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.

The pass covers entrance for a driver and all passengers in a personal vehicle at per-vehicle fee areas or up to 4 adults at sites that charge per person (kids 15 & under get in free). I get an annual parks pass every year – it pays off as soon as you visit 3 parks as normal daily entry fees cost $30 a car.

Skips the lines and get your Annual National Parks Pass from REI! The America the Beautiful Pass Covers entrance for a driver and all passengers in a personal vehicle at per-vehicle fee areas or up to 4 adults at sites that charge per person (kids 15 & under get in free)

Learn about some of my Favorite National Parks to Visit Why You Should Go to Lake Clark – A Least Visited National Park US National Parks in Pictures 10 Days Rafting in Grand Canyon National Park Badlands National Park

4. Get a Local Tour Guide

For the independent travelers in your life, consider this cool travel experience gift – a local tour guide! Tours By Locals makes it easy to find reliable, experienced, and inspiring local tour guides in 190 different countries. It’s a way to craft your own unique tour and do what you want to do on your timeline. I used them on a recent trip to Merida Mexico and it was the highlight of our entire trip! You can simply get your traveling friend a Tours By Locals gift card and then let them choose the guide they want to hire! Check out all the destinations they cover here.

Suitcases, Backpacks, and Packing Essentials for Travel Gift Ideas

Let’s start at the beginning, a suitcase. This might seem like a big travel gift, but it is a thoughtful and essential travel gift for a really special friend! I lived out of a suitcase for 11 years as I traveled the world as a nomad. For me, it’s really important that a suitcase is durable, yet light. I’ve been testing a few out this year – some made the cut and some didn’t – but here are my favorites.

5. Checked Luggage

If you’ve followed me for a while, then you know I love my Eagle Creek gear – I’ve been carrying Eagle Creek suitcases for all of my 17 years of traveling. The Gear Warrior is the latest one I’ve been using. 

Why I like it: There are no bells and whistles or special compartments – it’s just basic – and that’s what keeps it light and versatile. You can fit a TON into it when you have to. The material is durable, water-repellent, and lightweight. It can also expand if you do a little shopping on your trip. I use Eagle Creek packing cubes (more on those below!) and organizers to keep everything organized in the bag and it works perfectly.  The Gear Warrior comes in a carry-on and checked size. They currently only have 4 wheels options, however, my older one is a 2-wheel version. Either would be super for a travel gift!

This is my most used piece of luggage! Lightweight and simple. Use packing cubes with this and save so much space and weight! Plus all Eagle Creek luggage has a lifetime warranty.

Another great Eagle Creek option is this super durable wheeled duffel. I love this for adventure travel where I’m carrying lots of outdoor gear (why do hiking boots take so much space?!!). It’s waterproof and holds everything you need on an outdoor adventure trip!

I've been traveling with Eagle Creek luggage for 17 years - they make great products! This is a great wheeled duffle that will fit plenty of gear inside! I like the minimal design inside to keep it uncomplicated. Just use packing cubes to organize and you are set for a long term trip!

90L/29 Inch

6. Peak Design Sling Bag

A camera bag that looks and acts like a purse…yes there is such a thing! I’ve been using the Peak Design Sling bag as my ‘personal carry-on’ item.  It’s a great day-to-day bag for my photo and laptop gear. It looks and acts like a purse honestly – so this is a great dual-purpose bag for the ladies!

I can fit in my small mirrorless camera plus an extra lens and filters. Plus I bring my wallet and other essential purse items. It also has room for an iPad or other small notebook. So it’s perfect to take out exploring a town and have everything with you.  It might not work for a fancy night on the town, but it’s a great all-purpose travel bag for the photo enthusiast!

The perfect companion for minimalist, on-the-go carry of everyday or photo gear. My favorite thing about this sling is that it doesn't necessarily look like a camera bag - which is perfect for traveling. It looks more like a purse and can carry a camera, as well as other things you may need while touring around a city. The Sling’s padded cross-body strap features a quick-adjuster that you can loosen when accessing gear and tighten when actively hiking, biking, or walking.

Discover the best camera bag for travel – organized by travel style

7. Fjallraven Hip Pack

Fanny Packs are cool again. I hate to admit it – but fanny packs are back ‘in’ AND…they are great for travel! I have actually stopped using a purse and have become one of ‘those’ people…A person who carries a fanny pack…now called a hip pack! This Fjallraven hip pack fits the necessities plus my phone and it has a hidden pocket too that I love – and it’s washable!

This hip pack/fanny pack is great for travel as they can hold your essentials that you need to get to quickly (passport, phone, wallet), but securely. I typically wear mine around my shoulder/chest as opposed to around my waist. I just feel like it's more secure that way. This cute hip pack by Fjallraven is the perfect size for me and I love that you can throw it in the laundry and clean it up after 4 weeks traveling around Europe!

8. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are the key to packing happiness – and they will absolutely make your travel-loving friends happy! Packing cubes turn your bag into a piece of furniture. I use mine to organize my different types of clothes, just like I would a dresser; this packing cube has t-shirts, this one has pants, this one has socks. You get the idea – it’s packing bliss.

I have used Eagle Creek Packing Solutions for years, I love their original packing cubes which are pretty durable and can fit a lot of items snugly.

These are the original packing cubes from Eagle Creek - and I must admit - they are my favorite. I find the fabric to be durable and the zippers are much more rugged than the lighter weight versions.

This year I also started using Thule compression packing cubes and fell in love with them. The addition of a compression zipper means that you can compress the contents to be much smaller and take up less space in your suitcase. This is really great for puffy winter travel gear like sweaters! The cubes are really durable, and the zippers and fabric are very high quality which enables you to really compress a lot of items in one cube!

This compression packing cube set is a must for being able to organize your suitcase for a trip. The zippers are sturdy and durable which is key for a compression cube. I have been amazed at how many things I could compress thanks to the strong zippers.

9. Stasher Bags

I was introduced to Stasher Bags a couple of years ago.  They are marketed for food storage, but I use them for travel!  If you’re an organized packer or an aspiring zero-waste traveler, you’re going to want to travel with several empty stasher bags in your luggage… stasher bags can do it all!  I use a big one in my toiletry bag to put my liquids in just in case they explode.  I used to always use a plastic bag, but I love the Stasher bag as a multiple-use solution!

Toiletry Items for Travel Gift Ideas

Toiletry items are a large part of packing so make sure that you have the most efficient and earth-friendly ones! Here’s the gear I use in my toiletry case…including the case. These are great travel care package ideas!

10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

I’ve been using this style of hanging toiletry bag since the day I left in 2006.  I like the different compartments and the fact that you can stand the bottles upright.  You can fit more than you think in this beauty!

A super toiletry organizer for longer trips. I fit in my stasher bag of regular size shampoo, lotion, sunscreen and toothpaste! This is the same style of toiletry bag I have used for 17 years. I love to just hang it in a hotel bathroom and have all of my products upright. Plus - you can fit a lot of items in this and zip it all up nice and compact.

11. Silicone Travel Bottles

I started using these reusable bottles for my shampoos and conditioners and I love them!  They have big openings to make it easy to fill, and they have a locking mechanism so there will be no surprise spills!

12. Travel Washcloth

I know what you are thinking…a washcloth…huh? But trust me when I say that this is one of my favorite essential but cheap travel gifts. I personally am a washcloth person – and I don’t like to use the ones in hotels with liquid soap (that you frequently find in a hotel room). But this gem is really tiny and weightless and suds up so easily with just a little drop of liquid soap! The best part is that it’s completely odor-free and super fast drying, plus has the texture of a loofah sponge.  A little gentle exfoliation never hurt anyone on the road! This is a great stocking stuffer present for travelling friend!

I LOVE this piece of travel gear! It's in my packing list every time I travel. It's a super alternative to hotel washclothes that soak up all the liquid soap. Plus, it's odor-free, quick drying (like literally a few seconds rubbed in a towel and it's dry) & provides light exfoliation. It's great for camping and backpacking too!

13. Kula Antimicrobial Pee Cloth

Yes, you read that right. For the female who travels and often finds herself out in nature when nature calls, this pee cloth is amazing! I used to carry toilet paper for peeing while hiking – but then you have to pack it out and generally, I would just be lazy and ‘drip dry’. Until I learned about pee cloths! This can snap onto your backpack and you can use it to dry (it’s odor resistant and antimicrobial AND has a waterproof side where you hold it), and then snap it to your backpack to dry out quickly as you hike along!

When nature calls (and it will), the Kula Cloth Reusable Antimicrobial Pee Cloth keeps your hands dry on one side while sopping moisture into the absorbent, antimicrobial side that won't show stains. Perfect for hiking when you have to pee in nature. This cloth is so much better than toilet paper and can easily be cleaned when you get home.

14. Scrubba Wash Bag

This is my new favorite piece of travel gear for 2024! Scrubba wash bag allows a machine-quality wash anywhere in just minutes. With the Scrubba bag, I can say goodbye to hotel sink laundry! The bag has the washing instructions printed on it, all you need is water and some soap. It also doubles as a dry bag! Being able to do a few pieces of laundry while traveling means you can pack fewer clothes, travel lighter, and save money on laundry!

This hand 'washing machine' for hotel and travel means I never have to do sink laundry again! This large bag has solved so many travel problems for me. The bumps inside the bag provides a wash board effect and cleans your clothing better than you ever could by hand. Plus - the bag doubles as a dry bag! If you are a sink laundry traveler - you must try the Scrubba!

15. Tide Travel Sink Packets

I often find myself doing a little ‘laundry’ on a longer trip. Instead of trying to use the hotel soap that is attached to the wall, just squeeze one of these single-use Tide packets into your Scrubba bag (see above)! Also great stocking stuffers!

I always throw one of these in my toiletry bag when I travel. Many times when I travel I don't need to do an entire load of laundry - but just a few things in the sink and these are perfect for just that! Does 3 Loads (3 packs of 3)

Gifts That Make Flying Easier

I spend a lot of time on planes, so comfort is my priority.  Even though I sit back in the economy the majority of the time, I have found some ways to be comfortable. Here are my best travel presents for friends going traveling who sit back in the cheap seats like me!

Tip – Note down below I’ve included my favorite travel pants and compression socks that I put in the clothing section…these are also a big part of my flying gear!

16. Stop the Plastic Waste and Bring a Water Bottle

Have you ever thought about how much plastic is used on a plane?  Every passenger gets multiple drinks in plastic cups.  Say no to this airplane waste and take your own bottle when you travel.  I always bring my water bottles on planes and simply ask them to fill them up or fill them up at the airport before I get on.  Hydration is important…and so are single-use bottles!  Here are a couple of brands that I use that I love!

Great for travel - at 24oz, it's small enought to fit into most backpack bottle holders or cup holders. Plus, I love that you can lock it so I can put it in my bag without fear of it leaking!

One of the things I like about Klean Kanteen insulated bottles is that they have a system where you really just need to purchase one insulated bottle and then use their interchangeable caps for your different needs; caps for sipping drinks, straws lids for cold drinks, or chug caps. One bottle is really all you need! In addition, they continue to innovate making their latest containers with certified 90% post-consumer recycled steel. By using recycled instead of virgin steel, Klean Kanteen will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions from steel by 40%, achieve a 30% reduction in energy demand, and a 60-80% reduction in ecosystem impacts.

One of the things I like about Klean Kanteen is that they have a system where you really just need to purchase one insulated bottle and then use their interchangeable caps for your different needs; caps for sipping drinks, straws lids for cold drinks, or chug caps. One bottle is really all you need!

17. Neck Pillow

I’ve tried many different neck pillows, but I keep coming back to this one!  This memory foam Neck Pillow provides enough support AND it folds up pretty small – the best of both worlds. Plus – you can get this one with an eye mask and ear plugs…you’ll feel like you are flying first class with this neck pillow bundle!

I love the soft yet firm memory foam and the fact that you can use the clip to pull it tight so it doesn't move around as much. Plus - becuase it's memory foam it folds up small and always retains its shape! After sitting in a compact ball during COVID I got mine out and it snapped back into shape in no time!

18. Best Travel Earplugs

Planes can be really noisy,  so be prepared with earplugs. However don’t bother with those soft squishy ones, use silicon earplugs. I was actually introduced to these when I hiked the Camino de Santiago trail . The silicon earplugs block so much more noise, I didn’t even hear people getting up and packing around me in the morning! You can use them for a few days and then replace them with another pair.

These soft silicone-putty plugs mold very comfortably to the unique contours of any ear. They are great for sleeping with snorers (like I had to on the Camino de Santiago), swimming, travel, concerts, and flying discomfort. In fact, they have been proven to help relieve airplane ear pressure and pain due to flying.

19. Airplane Leg Sling

Even though you may be flying in economy – there are ways you can be more comfortable in your seat. Leg slings provide a way for you to get your feet elevated more on long-haul flights and decrease the pressure on your lower back

Consider this your portable foot hammock that changes your economy class seat to a premium seat! Elevate your feet on flights or train rides with this Memory Foam sling. Increases comfort and reduces swelling

20. Luggage locks

I normally check bags when I travel, so I always use a TSA-approved lock on each bag I check. Will this ensure your stuff doesn’t get stolen…no – nothing will ensure that. However, it will deter people from doing quick grabs. In addition – I often use these simple locks to lock my bags in my hotel rooms when I’m out touring around. It just gives me a little more piece of mind when I travel. It’s an easy cheap gift for travelers, and you can never have too many!

Luggage locks are an essential item for me. Granted - if someone really wants to steal your bag or stuff - I'm sure they can. However, a lock will certainly deter someone form grabbing something quickly. TSA approved.

21. Melatonin Tablets

If you are like me and have trouble falling asleep on planes, then pack some Melatonin with you. It will help you fall asleep faster and also can aid in getting over jetlag!

Jetlag sucks - but one thing I do to help me get through it quicker is take Melatonin tablets. These help you Fall Asleep Faster, Stay Asleep Longer, Strawberry Flavor, 10mg, 100Count

22. Priority Pass Lounge Membership

Now this is a sweet gift for your friends going traveling! Get lounge access at most airports around the world so you can wait out those inevitable long layovers in style and comfort! I love my Priority Pass membership – it has ‘saved me’ many times in my travels. They have a simple app to use to locate the lounges and provide some info about them. It sort of feels like you’re flying first class!

With a Priority Pass Membership, enjoy a VIP experience – whoever you fly with, in whatever class of travel and without the need to book in advance. Choose from three plans and on your next flight enjoy access to quiet, comfortable spaces with complimentary refreshments, something to read, Wi-Fi to tap in to, and even showers, bed and spa facilities to refresh in*.

Technology Travel Gifts

Technology is a part of our life and it is certainly a part of our travels. I know depend on my phone when I travel – it is my guide, my map, my safety. Here are a few of my best travel gift ideas around keeping that technology up and running and keeping your sanity!

23. Universal Plug Adapter

One of the best gifts for international travelers is one of these Universal Plug Adapters. However, the good news is that you’ll only need one, no matter where you go!

This all-in-one solution integrates 4 retractable plugs (US, EU, UK, AU) which are available in 170+ countries. I normally use this to plus into the wall and then plug my power strip into this providing me more charging spaces. This world travel adapter does NOT convert voltages.

24. Battery Charger

With the number of electronics we now depend on while we are traveling, you must have a backup for your essential items when they are low on battery.  I decided to invest in a good portable battery charger – one that might be a bit bigger – but charges more. Plus – a portable charger is essential if you are traveling off-grid for a number of days and need multiple charges. This is what I used when I rafted the Grand Canyon .

When I am on more remote trips, this is perfect as it provides multiple charges for when you are in the backcountry! Provides more than 5 and a half charges for iPhone XS, more than 4 full charges for Samsung Galaxy S10, and over 2 and a half charges for iPad mini 5.

25. Jabra Noise Cancelling Ear Pods

I’m one of those people who can’t use Apple Airpods because the pods always drop out of my ears…and therefore I hate them. I had to find something with a better design for my ears and these Jabra Ear Pods are the answer for me. Plus – they are also a great price for good noise-cancelling technology! Easy to use with any Bluetooth product, long battery life – these are a great gift for friends going traveling!

I love noise cancelling on an airplane...it's essential for my sanity! These economical earbuds are super for travel and sports. If you are like me and the Apple Airpods don't stay in your ears - then these Jabra ones are the answer. They don't fall out and they have great noise cancellation, plus long battery life. Perfect for a long travel day!

26. Bose Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

If I could marry these headphones and have their babies I would. I love, love, love them for long flights. When I started using noise-canceling headphones my first reaction was “Oh Baby…where have you been my whole traveling life?” I don’t know about you but I adore shutting everyone out and just being in my own world for a bit and that’s exactly what these do – better than any other on the market.  They remove all of the low-level hums and buzzing from our completely plugged-in world, making you realize just how loud the world is.

Noise-Cancelling and perfect for flights if you want to simply be in your own little world! Plus they come with a chord that you can plug into airplane arm rests since blue tooth normally isn't an option on older planes.

27. Tech Pouch for Travel

This tech pouch comes with me on every trip. It’s perfect for keeping all of your various cords, batteries, external drives, and more. In fact, you won’t believe how much you can fit into it! It has little pockets, and compartments to keep everything organized. Every traveler needs one of these!

I love this pouch - you can fit so much into it - it really is deceptive! Whether storing cables, everyday gear, or travel essentials, Tech Pouch offers unrivaled organization and ease of access. Origami-style pockets create enormous spatial efficiency, letting you pack more into a smaller space while keeping your items neatly organized and easy to find. This goes on every trip with me!

28. Small Power Strip for Travel

More electronics means more needs for plugs when you travel.  Even nice hotels are sometimes deficient in plugs or on easy-to-reach plugs.  When traveling internationally I use my world adapter to plug into the wall, then plug this power strip into that. It’s a perfect gift for charging multiple things at once and the long chord is a must!

This power strip is ultra minisized and light. I love the 5 foot cord since you can never predict where wall outlets will be in a hotel! The chord wraps around the power strip itself when you’re not using it.

Travel Clothing

There are a number of brands I love for travel clothes.  I’ve tested out many, but the ones I always love are Title Nine ,  Kuhl , Prana , and Royal Robbins are at the top of my list.  They are a company that focuses on comfortable clothes that are quick-drying, nonwrinkle, and rooted in sustainability. However, I also have a few specific clothing items that I feel are essential for travelers.

29. Compression Socks for Travel

This is a travel gift idea that can save someone’s life.  As you are probably aware, I had a very big scare recently with blood clots that formed during a long-haul flight.  I could have easily died, and many people do.  Ever since I made it through that experience, I have been a huge advocate of wearing compression socks on any flight over 3 hours.  Along with things like getting up and moving around, they will reduce your chance of contracting blood clots. Every traveler needs a pair of these!

Plus – use Discount code is OTT15 – good for 15% off your order.

Compression socks are great for faster muscle recovery and to fight blood clots on long flights or long road trips.

PLUS - use d iscount code OTT15 for 15% off orders!

30. The Perfect Travel Pants

I fly a lot.  And when you fly as much as I do you want to be comfortable, but I don’t necessarily want to look like I’m wearing my pajamas!  I’ve been testing out various pairs of ‘flying pants’ this year and have come up with my favorite.  Try out the comfortable and lightweight KUHL Resistor Air Joggr . I love the KUHL brand for their high quality outdoor gear. And if you don’t like the jogger style, they have a number of other travel style pants .

What makes these a great travel pant? They are lightweight and yet slightly stretchy, water reisitant, and breathable. They are casual and comfortable, yet they don't look like your pajamas! And the best part - they have side pockets for your phone - which is probably my most important trait in a travel pant. We use our phone for everything in the airport and our tickets, so it needs to be easily accessible.

31. Traveler Scarf

Planes, trains, and buses tend to be cold, so I always love to have a colorful scarf with me that I can use to warm up a bit…and even use as a blanket if I have to. Plus – a scarf can dress up a typically boring travel wardrobe quickly. This is my favorite scarf because it can be used in many different ways!

I love products that have dual uses - and this awesome scarf is a traveler's dream! It's not just a scarf - it's a little shrug, a blanket, a poncho - there are multiple ways to wear it. The fabric is super soft and I always carry it onto the plane for when I inevitably get cold.

32. Wool Socks

My feet sweat a lot – but I’ve found a solution! Smartwool socks are GREAT for travel. They dry really fast, don’t hold odor, and stay warm in the cold and cool in the heat. Because they don’t get smelly, I only have to take a couple of pairs in my suitcase. I run in them, hike in them, and wear them to bed when my feet are cold and have no one to snuggle with. They are the only socks I travel with!

Merino wool is the perfect travel fabric. It doesn't hold odor, it's fast drying, and it is good for both hot and cold environments! Smartwool has many different styles from crew socks to hiking socks and more. You can also find different cushion levels. You'll only need a couple of pairs in your suitcase because they are so multi functional!

33. Branwyn Wool Underwear

Merino wool has made it into underwear. Once again merino is a great fabric for underwear thanks to its natural ability to resist odor. Plus – they dry super fast for washing in the middle of your trip. Really – I take half the underwear that I used to on trips with this miracle fabric! Branwyn has focused on making undies and bras made from this miracle fabric! If you are still skeptical about wool underwear – Branwyn has a ‘First Pair Guarantee’ that allows you to try 1 pair of each unique style/size/color on your first order, and return risk-free within 14 days of receiving your order.

34. Wallaroo Hats

If you have followed me on social media then you know that I love hats; I normally pack at least 2 for each trip! They are perfect for sun protection, when I’m too lazy to shower, and bad hair days that happen frequently when I travel! Wallaroo is a Colorado company that specializes in sun-protective hats that are also stylish. Each hat has SPF in them to help protect against skin cancer.

PLUS – many of them are foldable and you can easily travel with them! They will still retain their shape. Check out their many styles and how to pack them!

Plus, use the OTTSWORLD20 promo code and get 20% off your Wallaroo purchase! 

I love all of their styles and normally always have at least 2 of their different hats with me on every trip I take! All of their styles offer superb sun protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends the material of every Wallaroo hat with a UPF rating and a 3+ inch brim as an effective UV protectant. Plus - they have so many fashionable styles!

Use my Discount code, OTTSWORLD20, for an extra 20% regular priced items!

35. Klipsta Hat Clip

Since I always travel with a few hats, sometimes I just want to carry them on to make sure they don’t get damaged. And now carrying on hats just got easier with the Klipsta hat clip! This heavy-duty magnet will keep your hat in tip-top shape as you travel through airports, cities, and train stations.

Quickly and easily attach your Wallaroo hat (or any hat or baseball cap) to your bag for travel using the innovative Klipsta Hat Clip. Featuring a simple design that pairs well with any accessory, the smart clip keeps your hat securely fastened using the unique lock feature. Attach, lock, clip, and you’re good to go!

36. Tubes/Buffs

Buffs/Tubes are great for so many uses – a hat, scarf, eye mask, tube top, washcloth, helmet liner, and even handkerchief. My favorite brand I’ve recently used is Turtle Fur. They have some of the softest fabric around – and you want it to be soft if it’s around your neck or head! I’ve used mine for every single one of those situations… and never leave ‘home’ without it!

Active Performance Neck Gaitor made of Comfort Shell™ Lite Supersoft fabric, built specifically for warmer weather, is a match made in heaven for the versatile performance of our beloved Totally Tubular™. A must have in your backpack for any summer outdoor adventure.

Travel Gifts That Inspire

Looking for some travel inspiration?  Need to know where to go, how to hike the Appalachian Trail, or how to travel on a budget? I’ve had a number of friends finish some books this year that are about travel – here are my favs for travel gift ideas when you are looking for inspiration!

37. Artistic Gifts for Travelers

I also recommend that you check out my Unique Gifts for Travelers Gift List here . I curated this list of Inspiring travel gifts from Etsy and it has some really fun ideas on it! These are all one-of-a-kind artistic gifts. Like these customized state maps for walls and hats made by my niece!

During the pandemic, my niece took up embroidery and started free-styling her own designs to put on hats, sweatshirts, pet collars, and walls. She typically focuses her designs on flowers, because she’s a plant lover. I love everything she does (because I’m a proud aunt), but when she started making state maps with state flowers, and iconic sites – I got really excited! I asked her to do a Colorado design for me.

You can tell her what you want/like, and she’ll put together a design for you – or you can look through the designs that are available in her shop .

38. Push Pin Globe

Every traveler loves a map – this is one of my favorite gift ideas for travel lovers! This cool push pin globe is a great way for people to track their travels, as well as get inspiration on where to go next.

The perfect was to track your travels around the globe. Durable Steel Base - 7.3 Inches. Great for Educational Purposes & Mapping Travels. Comes with 100 colored pins.

39. Trip Chaser Card Game

If you are simply an armchair traveler – you can still travel through this cool new card game. Just like actual travel, expect both stumbling blocks and enriching experiences along the way as you play the game. You’ll rely on the luck of drawing a good event card, or proactively buying travel insurance to save you from the unexpected! It’s like real travel but without the suitcase, spending, or stress.

Prove who’s the most travel-savvy by buying, bartering, and gambling your way to various destinations. The more challenging a destination is to get to from North America, the more points it’s worth! Whoever has the most points at the end of the game wins humble bragging rights for life. This game was created by a couple of my friends who are world travelers!

Ages 10 and Up • 2-6 Players

40. For the Person Planning an Upcoming Trip

Ultimate Journeys for Two I know that I really specialize in solo travel, however this year I had a couple of good friends publish this awesome travel idea book for couples. If you are trying to figure out where to go, check out Ultimate Journeys for Two for ideas!

41. For the Person Who Loves to Hike

Make sure you pick up a copy of the External Hiking Book from my friend Dustin.  He finished the Appalachian Trail…but not without a few bumps along the way!

42. For the Person Who Loves Glamping

My friends Mike and Anne Howard have been glamping all over the US and have put together a book about this new craze sweeping the travel world.  Learn about all of the incredible places you can stay in style in Comfortably Wild

43. For the Budget Traveler

Looking for affordable experience gifts for a friend? Long-time friend Matt Kepnes wrote this book about how to travel cheaply, but still have a rich experience all over the world! Read Travel the World on $50 a Day .

44. For the Person Planning a Road Trip

Yet another one of my friends recently wrote this book on road trips. It’s actually more of a journal and activity book – and it’s packed with great ideas of what to do on the road. She herself is a road-tripping expert and now she’s put all of that expertise into a book full of things to keep you occupied on a road trip. If your friends have a road trip on the horizon, be sure to get them this before they leave!

Do you have a road trip on the horizon? Then you must check out this book by friend Val! It contains everything you need to have and record an epic road trip! Enjoy fun games and challenges to pass the time on your next road trip and have a keepsake to look back on for years to come with this entertaining must-have for your next vacation.

45. For the Person who is a Curious Traveler

Forget old-fashioned travel books with cookie-cutter advice on where to go and what to do. With this hip, ingenious, and creative companion, you’ll have a unique and surprising experience anywhere you go. Simply follow the prompts and you’ll find new adventures on any trip. This book will teach you how to explore – the perfect gift for a traveler!

Forget old-fashioned travel books with cookie-cutter advice on where to go and what to do. With this hip, ingenious and creative companion, you'll have a unique and surprising experience anywhere you go.

Shop My Complete Travel Gear Guides on my Amazon Store

This list really is only the new stuff I discovered and used this year in my travels, however, to see a complete list of all of my favorite travel gift ideas go shop at my Ottsworld Amazon store for all of my travel gear must-haves!

PIN IT FOR LATER!

Disclosure:

This post contains some affiliate links. If you choose to purchase items through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help reduce the costs of running this site

Still don’t know what to get the traveler on your list? Then just leave a comment with your travel gear buying questions below and I’ll be happy to be your personal shopper!  I’m much better at spending other people’s money rather than my own!

23 Responses to "45 Best Gifts for Friends Going Traveling in 2024"

By Kim December 1, 2015 - 12:30 pm

Wonderful list, thanks! What’s the best (budget) tripod for a traveling fine art photographer?

By Sherry December 1, 2015 - 1:26 pm

There’s a couple I use – however neither are really that budget – it’s hard to find a budget tripod! I have the Gorilla Pod Focus (which is strong enough to hold pro DSLR and zoom lens. And I really love the 3 legged thing Brian tripod too – http://www.3leggedthing.com/evolution-3-brian-carbon-fiber-tripod-kit-airhed-blue.html More spendy though but really heavy duty. But the best budget tripod there is – is simply a great quality low light lens. I use a 15-55mm F 2.8 – and that can handle many low light situations well enough that I don’t need to drag along a tripod. Always start with a great lens!

By Cest La Vibe December 3, 2015 - 2:42 pm

I want the LensCoat Raincoat and Smartwool socks for Christmas!

By Sherry December 3, 2015 - 3:27 pm

I hope you get them! The Raincoat is awesome and comes in different sizes – I adore mine!

By Jared December 10, 2015 - 5:03 pm

Great list! I used to travel with BOSE headphones all the time but had two issues with them: 1) they are big and sometimes too big if I was just carrying a small pack 2) I found them uncomfortable for sleeping (if I fell asleep with them on). So know I just go old school and buy a pack of foam earplugs.

I love buffs! A must have for any outdoor adventure. Still can’t figure out how to tie them in all the different ways!

By Sherry December 10, 2015 - 5:52 pm

True – you can’t really sleep with the earphones – however – it’s crazy how much I enjoy shutting off the rest of the noise in the world and love just being in my head – so for that it’s worth it for me. 🙂 Buffs rule!!

By Paul June 18, 2016 - 12:42 pm

nice list. I will take the advice on the socks ^^ best regards.

By Sherry June 19, 2016 - 9:41 am

Great! I hope you like them…that’s the only socks I carry in my bag…winter or summer!

By Vikki September 7, 2016 - 6:06 pm

You’ve gone so many places. But i never hear of you ever getting sick from the food or water? Nor a close call from any adventures you’ve been on. And nothing on malaria pills, etc. I know a lot of people who travel and certain places require cautions. Are you in a magic bubble or really lucky? My hats off to you either way. I Love reading your blogs and experiences out there! Thank you for sharing your lives adventures and hot tips on gear you prefer! Safe Travels & Blessings!

By Sherry September 9, 2016 - 1:32 pm

Hi Vikki – thanks for your question. You are right – I haven’t ever been really sick from food or water. I have a pretty tough stomach thankfully as I don’t take any precautions and never travel with purel or anything. I of course have had various unpleasant days from food – but nothing like food poisoning. I don’t use malaria drugs as I really dislike them and the side effects. I just bring really powerful bug spray and try to avoid getting bit. However I’ve been pretty lucky on that count too considering i lived in Vietnam for a year and had a number of friends get sick from mosquitoes. I”m sure my luck will run out some day. But I tend to not worry about it – I’m more worried about getting in a traffic accident or something like that in a foreign country – with some of the buses I’ve ridden that seems more likely!

By Jennifer November 27, 2016 - 3:55 pm

Do you have a travel scale that you can recommend? We’ve tried a couple, but they just haven’t been able to maintain accuracy after a few months.

By Sherry November 28, 2016 - 7:50 pm

I’ve never actually used a travel scale before so I don’t have any good recs! I’m so sorry! I think I”m just so used to knowing what 25 kg is that I guess pretty damn well!

By Jared November 30, 2016 - 9:08 pm

This post is going to make me spend lots of money!

I love the buff – have had one for many years and it comes in handy for me whether I’m climbing a mountain or trying to not choke on car fumes while riding on the back of a motorbike.

Thanks for sharing Sherry!

By Yvonne December 1, 2016 - 8:39 am

Smart wool socks! Yes!

By Ryan December 17, 2016 - 11:43 am

“cube has t-shits” – Thanks for the laugh 🙂

By Tonkin Travel Vietnam December 20, 2016 - 3:28 am

Nice list. vote for buffs. Especially, if you travel to my country (Vietnam) because beach and sun everywhere.

By the travelgears September 15, 2017 - 3:15 am

I do not know how i can praise your article its really really brilliant article with outdoor travel gears which helps to every travel how and what they can buy before going on tour.

By Shang Teo December 2, 2019 - 9:16 am

Your article came in handy. I had a hard time thinking of what Christmas gifts to get for my husband and my best friend who are travel fanatics. I am considering the Anatomie Lightweight Travel Coat, Cabeau neck pillow and the Stasher bags. And the LuluLemon Vinyasa Scarf for myself! (“,)

Have you tried the neck pillow? Is it good? Thanks for sharing!

By Sherry December 31, 2019 - 12:04 pm

Yes – it’s the pillow I have and I love it.

By Flora November 19, 2020 - 8:29 am

Thank you so much for sharing!

I would like to say that this list of gifts is more than enough to get a clear idea of what you should give to your favorite person. little things can make difference, I Recently give my friend who likes travel as I do noise-canceling headphones and he found it a great gift. so I’m sure this list will help most people to select the right gift for their belongings.

Thank you for helping and guiding people to make their travels a success.

By Sherry November 20, 2020 - 11:17 am

Glad you enjoyed it Flora! Happy Holidays!

By Maggie March 24, 2022 - 2:47 pm

Beware of compression socks if you have arthritic hands. It is impossible to get them on. I pump my feet and stretch and wiggle around instead. My doctor suggested pumping my feet.

By Sherry April 24, 2022 - 12:39 pm

I learned how to put them on here – https://vimvigr.com/blogs/our-blog/how-to-put-on-compression-socks?gclid=Cj0KCQjw6pOTBhCTARIsAHF23fK1oF2X5S1FzNM7DocwTqubiOZuMf-gzD0OZAQHAvB_uyGG0UkKYnoaAti9EALw_wcB And it works great for me!

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Gifts for Friends Going Travelling: Unique, Fun, and Functional Ideas

August 31, 2021.

Check Out These Great Gifts For Friends Going Travelling

Do you have a friend that is going traveling? Perhaps you want to get him or her a little “bon voyage” gift to help make the trip a little easier and a lot more fun. This curated list contains both functional and fashionable gift ideas for friends venturing off on a new adventure. Many of these items have been gifted to me by friends and others are products that I myself have purchased and found incredibly useful during my travels.

This post contains affiliate links. That means I receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking the link at no extra cost to you.

1. Madewell Passport Cover

I received this passport cover as a gift from my best friend for my birthday and really love the look and quality. The cover comes in two colors, true black or english saddle. If you sign up to be a Madewell Insider — you just need to give an email address — you can personalize the passport cover for your friend for free. You have the choice of large or small font and you can add up to three letters to the bottom right corner of the passport cover. This was such a beautiful touch and at $29.50, it’s a reasonable price point for a gift for a friend going travelling. 

Read More: 25 Most Inspiring Quotes for Travel With Friends

2. Allbirds Tree Runners

3. GetYourGuide Gift Card

If you know the destination that your friends are traveling to, why not elevate that experience for them and choose a tour activity for them to participate? A paella cooking class in Spain or an olive oil tasting in Italy might not be on your friend’s radar just quite yet, but it will be once you gift your friend with that opportunity. The easiest way to do this would be to purchase a gift card through GetYourGuide, a trusted booking platform with over 35,000 listed experiences. Viator would be another reliable company to book tours through; however, they don’t have a gift certificate option, so you would need to choose a specific date and time for your friend’s experience. Most tours on Viator do have a 24 hour cancellation policy though, so your friend could probably change the date/time around if needed.  Airbnb experiences would have been an ideal option, but unfortunately, you have to book the tour under your friend’s account which could prove difficult. 

4. Beis Travel Cosmetic Case

 Shay Mitchell, of Pretty Little Liars fame, created her own line of travel accessories based off her own travels and “Shaycation” YouTube series. The company, Beis, is sold at Nordstrom and has the cosmetic case along with other items in the range including a weekend bag, backpack, spinner suitcase, etc. The cosmetic case isn’t the most affordable on the market, but it is sure to make any of your friends who watched PLL back in the day extremely excited about their gift. 

5. Lifestraw Filtered Water Bottle

This might not be the flashiest gift, but your friends will be extremely thankful for the filtered water bottle when they are on vacation. After a long plane ride or a long day of sightseeing with 28,000 steps logged on their Fitbit, dehydration is the real deal. Your body will be craving and needing water 24/7. With a filtered water bottle, your friend can fill up from the tap or a nearby fountain and won’t have to  worry about any funky tastes or cloudiness. And, you’ll limit plastic waste because you won’t need to buy multiple plastic bottles daily.

6. Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you’re anything like me and always manage to be sitting right in front of three screaming toddlers on a plane, then you might just feel generous enough to gift your friend some noise cancelling headphones for the airplane flight. Prices can range from $55 for these well-reviewed Cowin headphones to $279 for Bose headphones or a whopping $349 for Beats . 

7. Barefoot Dreams Socks

Socks are one of the most underrated travel items. Seriously. It’s an item that people generally just don’t give too much thought to when they are packing which can be a grave mistake. When you travel, you walk soooo much more than you would on your regular day-to-day. Socks are so critical that you want to make sure you have packed enough socks for the days, the nights, the airplane, and to sleep in if its cold in your hotel room. Barefoot Dreams is my absolute favorite brand for blankets, cardigans, etc. and of course, socks. The softness and overall feel of the material is unlike anything else, so while a pair of Barefoot Dreams socks aren’t the sexiest gift for someone traveling, your friend will undoubtedly be sending you thank-you texts throughout the journey. 

8. North Face Resolve Plus  

Rarely when we pack for a trip do we plan our outfits around a rain jacket. In fact, a rain jacket is usually an afterthought to the whole packing process. We generally throw it in to the suitcase at the very last minute and then end up wearing one almost daily during our trip. Needless to say, your friend will be extremely grateful to you for gifting a North Face Resolve Plus, one of the best rain jackets on the market. The DryVent fabric is excellent quality and the fit is highly regarded.

9. Travel Jewelry Organizer

You’ve made it to your destination after a long flight, took that glorious shower, and are now dressed and ready to go out to a nice dinner after a few too many airplane meals. You’re about to head out the door when you remember that you want to wear one of the necklaces you packed. However, when you go to pull that necklace out of your luggage, it’s in a tangled mess that would take way too much time to un-knot. If this scenario has ever happened to you, help a friend out and make sure it doesn’t happen to her. 

10. Anker Portable Charger

Read More: How to Meet Travelers Abroad

11. Travel Shawl Wrap

Giving your friend a travel wrap may just be the most perfect gift because it’s just the right balance between functional and fashionable. The gift is slightly more exciting than some of the other options on this list, and will be used frequently since it’s such a multi-purpose item. Travel shawls are great to use as an airplane blanket, a scarf to wrap around your neck while sightseeing in the frigid cold, and as a cover-up for your shoulders when entering religious institutions.  

12. GoPro Action Camera or Red Light Filter

If you really want to do your friends a solid, gift them a GoPro camera for their travels so that they can document all of their outdoor adventures. GoPro just released the new GoPro HERO8 with HyperSmooth stabilization. You can also snag the GoPro HERO7 now for under $200! For an even more affordable option, you can gift your friend with a red light filter for enhanced underwater footage if you know your friend already owns a GoPro. The red light really makes an incredible difference in quality and would be incredibly thoughtful if your friend is taking any sort of beach vacation or diving trip.   

13. Travel Steamer

If you have a friend that travels all the time for work and hasn’t yet figured out that a travel steamer is a game changer, then you should gift your friend this immediately.  Sure, there are irons in many hotel rooms –especially accommodations that are used to holding conventions and conferences — but you never know if the in-room iron won’t work well or will end up burning your clothes. A travel steamer is compact, relatively light-weight, and totally worth it for perfectly pressed clothes. Just look at all of the incredible reviews these travel steamers have on Amazon! 

14. Travel Jewelry from Etsy  

Is your friend hosting a party after just getting back from a trip across the world? Instead of purchasing a gift for your friend’s upcoming travels, perhaps you want to purchase something that will be a great reminder of the great experiences that were just had. Etsy, an online store for handmade items, has a plethora of travel accessories that would be perfect for a friend returning from travel. Some of my favorite travel jewelry pieces include these vintage map pendants , longitude and latitude bracelets , and airplane stud earrings .

Are you on Pinterest ? Pin this Travel Gift Ideas for later!

Have you received any unique, fun, or functional travel gifts from a friend when you went traveling? Let us know your favorite travel gifts in the comments below!

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The Ultimate Travel Gift Guide: 40+ Unique Travel Gifts (That People Actually Want!)

November 8, 2020

If you’re short on time and low on travel gift ideas, this post is going to save your life this year! I’ve spent the past three years traveling full-time, so I’ve got a prettty good sense of what gifts travelers actually want – and which will just end up collecting dust in a box somewhere.

Whether you’re looking for gifts for friends going travelling, something sweet for your special someone, or making a last-ditch effort to shop for that random person who has everything — I GOT YOU. This giant list of unique travel gifts & ideas will have something that’ll pique your interest, I promise.

( PS : This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you. I’m also a participant in the Amazon Associates program, and earn commissions on any qualifying purchases made through this site)

Table of Contents

Unique Travel Gifts $50 and Under

You definitely don’t have to break the bank to find good travel gifts! So many of my favorites are under $50 and would make great travel stocking stuffers, or nice going-away gifts for friends going travelling. I tried to include a good mix of fun travel gifts and practical travel gifts in this list.

I own and use many of these already, and most of the others are sitting in my various carts for future trips. Real-Life Traveler Approved™.

Enjoy the Wood Wooden World Travel Maps & City Maps, $50+!

My TOP unique travel gift idea this year!! It’s one of the best ways I’ve found to commemorate my travels and keep all my travel memories alive 🙂 These handmade wooden world travel maps can be customised with flag pushpins for all the places you or your loved one have visited. They make an incredible accent piece for any home.

I am also stoked on this brand because of their focus on sustainability and their small-scale manufacturing. Most importantly – they’re based in Ukraine. Their manufacturing centre was completely destroyed and they’re currently trying to offload their existing inventory and rebuild. Every purchase helps them do so. The maps are extremely high quality and just a really lovely, thoughtful travel gift. I’m obsessed and couldn’t recommend these more highly as a gift for people who like to travel.

Click here to check out all the Enjoy the Wood wooden travel maps , or make a donation through their site to support Ukraine. Use code JALEH10 for 10% off 🙂

  iPhone/Android Tripod, $19.99

For anyone who loves taking photos — this portable phone tripod is a must! The flexible arms can wrap around railings, furniture, or other objects to create the perfect angle for a photo. This will definitely help to up anyone’s Instagram game, especially solo travelers who struggle to get good shots.

Custom Travel Theme Metal Pins, $1-50

Looking for meaningful but inexpensive travel gifts? I’m currently  obsessed with these jewelry-quality custom metal pins. These are PERFECT gifts for travel lovers and offer endless style options for anyone who wants to add a little personality to their travel outfits.

These travel gift accessories easily upgrade a whole look, whether popped onto a hat, jacket, or backpack! The pins are fully customizable with unique elements like name, destinations, or travel quotes. They make a fantastic custom travel gift for this year.

 Shop & check out the best custom metal pins manufacturer here ! There’s a 40% bulk discount right now, so it’s a great time to pick up a few gifts for friends who travel!

Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 of the World’s Greatest Trips ($40)

If you’re looking for a gift for adventure lovers or wanderlusters missing international travel, this is it!!! This incredible book from National Geographic is devoted to travel inspiration around the world and features their typical (stunning) full-color photography, plus in-depth explanations for each destination. There’s something here for everyone.

This is such a thoughtful travel gift and would make an amazing gift idea for someone who misses traveling. Guarantee they’ll be thanking you for the inspiration for their next trip.

Click here to take a look inside the book and pick up a copy! 

Chromecast, $35

If you want bang for your buck, this is the option for what to gift someone who loves travelling. Most hotel rooms and even some in homestays/hostels have TVs, but they can be pretty much worthless in certain countries. I have watched more hours of TV in languages I don’t speak than I could count lol. Chromecast solves that problem, allowing you to stream Netflix/anything from your browser directly to your TV. It’s a LIFESAVER.

Check out reviews and click here to purchase!

Airplane Pendant Necklace, $49.99

The PERFECT travel gift for her this year — this gorgeous pendant necklace features a plane and a globe, in classic sterling silver dotted with cubic zirconia. Cute, stylish, and tarnish-free, it’s one of the most unique and functional gifts for the traveling woman! This is probably one of my favorite pieces on this travel gift guide – it’s SO cute in person, too.  

Check out reviews and purchase here! 

Vaccine Card Holder

Is this a little sad? Yes, lol. But in current times, will it come UNBELIEVABLY IN HANDY for your favorite traveler? Yes, lol. This is a super basic, durable, clear plastic card holder to protect your card – literally one of THE best 2021 travel gift ideas. My card is not encased in one of these bad boys, and only 3 months and 5 countries later it is completely BATTERED. I would definitely recommend this as a travel stocking stuffer this year or including it as one of your travel gift basket ideas!

Click here to view prices and purchase a vaccine card holder. 

Margarita Travel Kit!

For anyone (me, lol) who loves getting a little tipsy during their flights but craves a PROPER cocktail, this is a BRILLIANT affordable travel gift idea!! The kit comes sans tequila but contains everything else your fave traveler (or you) needs to make a marg in-flight. And it’s TSA-approved. Yes. YESSS!! Seriously such a fun travel gift. I’m picking these up for my friends this year.

Airbnb Gift Card, $50

If nothing else, give the gift of free travel! There’s a whole world of unbelievable Airbnbs out there. And I don’t know any traveler who wouldn’t jump at a few nights of free accommodation in a cosy house or laid-back beach bungalow.

Please note Airbnb gift cards are currently redeemable to USA ACCOUNT HOLDERS ONLY.

Check out here to purchase an Airbnb gift card!

  Stainless Steel Water Bottle, $21.95

A stainless steel bottle is great for travelers and the environment – win-win. This is a GREAT practical travel gift that most people never get around to buying for themselves. This one has tons of color & size options and it’s top-rated.

  Packing Cubes, $21.63

These are an organizational godsend and probably my favorite travel item I own. They make packing an absolute breeze because they compress to save space and help organize your items. They’re an absolute game-changer. Buy these as gifts for someone going travelling and I guarantee they will use them on every single trip.

  Clip-On Phone Camera Lens, $28.99

Another great gift for travel photographers! This clip-on lens attaches to the phone to allow a wider frame and higher quality shots – and it’s compatible with iPhone, Samsung, and Google phones. The macro lens also allows for close-up detail shots. These are SO much fun to shoot with and make a really fun travel gift.

  Travel Adapter, $9.99

Boring, yes, but necessary. A good travel adapter will always be appreciated, and most travelers just opt for the cheapest version when shopping for themselves. Pick up a compact but multi-functional one with extra USB ports to charge devices, and you’ll get some SERIOUS brownie points.

Portable Phone Charger

This is another must-have that will get a ton of use. There’s nothing worse than your phone running out of juice in middle-of-nowhere, Uzbekistan (I can tell you from experience). Go for a slim, lightweight version to make sure your favorite traveler can always keep it on-hand, just in case!

  Memory Foam Neck Pillow

This is the single best travel gift I could recommend if you’re looking for value. If you know any travelers who don’t have a neck pillow, get them one. Immediately . It will change their life and make flights so much more comfortable & restful. I’ve been using this wraparound pillow for 2+ years and refuse to travel without it, but the one pictured is better-rated and offers a bit more support.

  Foot Hammock 

If you know someone who struggles to sleep on flights, get them a foot hammock!! They hang off the tray table and allow you to elevate your feet, creating a much more comfortable resting position. I MacGyver myself a hammock with a sweatshirt or blanket, but would definitely appreciate a legit version. Elevating my feet has completely cured my plane insomnia and saved my life on long flights.

  Travel Towel 

A lightweight, quick-drying travel towel is a godsend for any long-term traveler. This is one of those things people often don’t realize they need until they’ve already left.

  Pushpin World Map / Scratch Off World Map  

My mom got me the scratch off version for Christmas last year and it was one of my best travel themed gifts! It’s so satisfying scratching off new countries, and it makes a cute conversation piece in my room. One of my best friends has the pushpin version which I love too. These are definitely awesome gifts for any avid traveler.

  Collapsible Mug

Perfect gifts for environmentally conscious travelers. I use mine for everything, from coffees to hostel water refills. It’s super compact and lightweight and fits easily in my bag, it’s cute af, and I love that I’m not contributing to creating plastic waste (especially in developing countries where that plastic is likely going to end up in the ocean).

Around the World Spice Set

This is the perfect gift for world travelers – especially in 2020, where lots of us are stuck at home unexpectedly and unable to travel 🙁 You can gift a little taste of feeling abroad with a round-the-world spice set featuring blends from Morocco, Jamaica, and Thailand, among others! It’s a super unique travel gift idea and one I’d love to get myself.

Click here to check out reviews and purchase! 

Waterproof Phone Case

Pretty much every traveler I know has destroyed their phone at least once due to an accident, flood, or falling into a lake (last example being me). Save your traveler friends the hassle and gift them a STURDY waterproof phone case to protect their electronics, so that they too don’t end up abroad with a fried phone. Again, a great practical travel gift that a lot of people won’t bother picking up for themselves, but will literally KISS you for gifting them when they get home. 

Click here to check out phone cases!

Extension Cable, $15.19

Another “boring” but unbelievably useful travel gift. For some reason, many countries like to put their power ports in completely incomprehensible positions – and it is NOT A VIBE. I never thought to bring one but would have KILLED for one the past 8 months in Vietnam as I’ve navigated housing with the literal dumbest wiring imaginable. Your traveler might go “wtf” when they open this one, but I PROMISE they will use it on one of their trips and bless you for saving them from a really common inconvenience.

This one also has USB ports and is super compact for travel. I just bought one and am looking forward to trying it out on my next trip!

Click here to check out reviews and purchase!

Unique Travel Gift Ideas Under $200

If you’re looking for super useful travel gift ideas for the travelers in your life, here are some solid mid-range options.

KnackPack Medium, $195

I cannot & will not stop raving about this backpack lol. The KnackPack is a first-of-its kind multifunctional luggage and is by FAR the best travel backpack I’ve ever used. It’s an AMAZING practical travel gift idea. It has a ton of unique and thoughtful features for travelers looking for something sleek and functional. My medium pack is TSA-approved as a carry on but fits literally an INSANE amount of stuff in it. 

Amongst other features, it packs like a suitcase, and has a ton of additional pockets, making storage super easy. It also has a side water bottle pocket, comfy padding on the back, and a trolley sleeve for easy stacking on my roller bag. I genuinely cannot recommend this bag more highly.  They’ve thought of EVERYTHING and I truly couldn’t recommend this more highly as a unique travel gift this year!! It’s a game-changer.

Click here to check out color options and reviews for the Medium KnackPack , or here to check out their full range of sizes .

  Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader, $129.99

Books and travel are… not compatible. When you’ve got limited space in your bag, it’s really not practical to lug around more than a book or two (if that). And that SUCKS if you love to read. If you know a bookworm who loves to travel, get them an e-reader and they will love you forever. Curling up in bed or passing a long train ride with all your favorite books at your fingertips… that’s priceless. I would love  to get one of these… are you reading this, Mom? 😉

Check out reviews and prices here!

SplayTray, $55

This nifty invention by a friend of mine is a patented-design carry bag that expands out into a fullsize tray. It’s SO HANDY. The sides are magnetised so once you want access to all your makeup, art supplies, etc at once, you just pop the sides and everything is laid out – no more rummaging through your bag for what you’re looking for. It comes in small/medium versions and a ton of different color options!!!

  Nanopresso Machine, $64.90

For the caffeine-addicted traveler. I had no idea a “nanopresso” was a thing until recently, but it looks AMAZING. Basically it’s a teeny-tiny portable machine that brews coffee! Just add coffee grounds and water. I was a bit skeptical of the functionality, but the reviews are actually solid – so this one is a safe bet for coffee lovers! Grab the NS adapter to make it Nespresso-pod compatible!

  Fujifilm InstaX Polaroid Camera, $72

Especially in the age of ultra-curated social media, there’s something really special about real  snapshots. Your fave traveler will have a blast snapping pics with one of these, and they’ll come home with a stack of absolutely priceless photos. My favorite travel photos are consistently the grainy, garbage quality late-night snaps on friends’ Polaroids – those are always the real moments, and the ones I most want to remember!

Check out reviews, colors, and prices here!

Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

There’s something about speakers that makes everything more fun – whether you’re laying on a beach in Thailand, enjoying a beer in Germany, or hiking in Switzerland. This one is waterproof, compact, and the sound quality is amazing! My flatmates have this exact model and it’s survived countless trips to Bondi Beach.

 Mobile Wifi Hotspot 

For anyone who lives online, a mobile hotspot is a must have travel gift! This little contraption creates a mobile wifi network, so your favorite traveler can stay connected, even in the middle of nowhere. This is great for people who travel frequently because I guarantee they are sick of weak wi-fi and dropped connection.

Priority Pass Membership, currently 40% off at just $55 (normally $99!)

Priority Pass is an exclusive service that grants members discounted access to hundreds of airport lounges around the world. Especially between long-haul international flights, it makes a huge difference to be able to relax, take a shower, and squeeze in a (complimentary!) gin & tonic. Whoever you pick this one up for will LOVE you.

Check out pricing and membership tiers here!

Unique & Useful Travel Gift Ideas $200 and Over AKA Presents For People You REALLY Love

Kidding, I know you can’t put a price tag on love 😉 But if you’ve got a bit higher budget, here are some mid-range to luxury travel gift ideas that your giftee would DIE to have, but probably won’t splurge on themselves.

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones, $199.99 (on sale from $299.99!!))

An absolute game-changer on flights, and probably one of the greatest investment items for a frequent traveler. You don’t realize how loud and disruptive airplane or outside noise can be until you can switch it off with the flick of a button. It makes a huge difference in sleep and comfort to upgrade from regular headphones. This Bose pair is one of the highest-rated noise cancelling headphones on the market, and my personal fave.

GoPro Hero 8, $299.99 (on sale from $349.99!!)

For any adventurers, a GoPro is a must have travel gift!! This bad boy can handle any weather condition and the picture quality is amazing considering how compact it is. It’s so fun to shoot with one and I’ve always come out with some gorgeous, in-the-moment adventure snaps. Don’t forget to pick up a GoPro dome to take some seriously cool half-underwater photos!

DJI Mini Drone, $399.99

DJI drones are some of the highest-rated on the market. They create spectacular aerial shots and are one of the best gifts for travel photographers. This is a definite investment but seriously opens up a whole new world of possibility for photos! I personally would kill for a drone, especially as a solo traveler who often struggles to take pics unassisted.

Chic Luggage Set, $325

Who wouldn’t love some sleek new luggage? My personal favorite brand Calpak makes beautiful luggage sets in a wide variety of colors and patterns. The rose-gold (pictured) is the most popular, but I own the white marble set , and have my eye on the rainbow gradient . They’re super lightweight but very sturdy and well-made.

Shay Mitchell’s Beis line is also EXTREMELY well-rated and very sleek. Revolve currently stocks a ton of luggage options including a 29” roller linked here , or a 21” roller linked here (both come in black and beige!).

Panasonic Lumix Mirrorless Camera, $479.99

If you know anyone who loves photography and travel, get them a mirrorless camera. An iPhone simply doesn’t do incredible destinations justice, but a DSLR is way too bulky to be practical for travel (I hate lugging mine around everywhere). A mirrorless camera gives you all the quality of a DSLR without the heft – it’s the perfect travel camera. I’ll be swapping out my Canon 6D for the Panasonic as soon as I can afford it!

  FitBit Versa 3 Smartwatch & Activity Tracker, $229.95

Traveling does a number on your body, and it’s really hard to stay in shape (especially when you love trying new foods). Any long-term traveler would love a tracker to help monitor their activity and stay on top of their health while abroad. This was my personal most-wanted item this year, and I’m confident I’ll get a ton of use out of it on future travels.

Gift an Experience

If all else fails, and you don’t want to burden your traveler with more Stuff – give them a gift they’ll never forget! Like a Harry Potter studio tour in London . Or a hot air balloon ride over Sydney’s Hunter Valley wine country. Or a romantic dinner cruise through the San Francisco Bay .

Or… just grab them a gift card and let them choose their dream experience .

Unique Travel Gifts for Her

Silk sleep mask.

Trying to sleep on a flight or in an unfamiliar environment (like a night train) can be absolutely miserable – a sleep mask will help to get some shut-eye. I have this pink silk version and it’s so  cute and super soft.

Shampoo & Conditioner Bars

The number of times my shampoo/conditioner have leaked into my bag and destroyed some important possession are like… endless. And continually lugging around/purchasing new (sh*tty) hair products is both impractical, and bad for your hair. Solution? Gift travelers shampoo/conditioner bars (and bar soap!), which travel easy and leak-proof, while keeping hair sleek and moisturised even in the most remote destinations.

Cute Leather Luggage Tags 

Especially if someone has indistinct luggage (like a basic black case), these will help avoid any mix-ups at the airport. And in case the bag gets lost, airport staff will easily be able to identify it. Plus they’re cute. My ex’s family got me these one year and I LOVE them – I use them every time I fly!

Personalized Leather Passport Holder 

Your passport is the most important thing you take with you on your travels! And especially with frequent trips, they can get pretty banged up – mine is literally falling apart. If you know someone whose passport looks a little worse for the wear, get them a passport holder. They look nice and they’re a super functional travel gift.

Also, Socks

I know it’s a running joke that you know you’re old once you get excited about socks for Christmas, but like, I would really love some socks lol. Whatever you decide to buy this year, just chuck some socks in the package too.

If you or someone you love needs socks too, here’s a link . You can never have enough socks, guys.

ANYWAY, I hope this helped you sort out your last-minute Christmas shopping this year!! Hope you guys have a lovely holiday season, and please let me know if you ended up buying any of these gifts for world travelers in your life. I’d love to hear about it! 

Don’t forget to PIN this post or drop a comment below if you found this list of unique travel gifts helpful! And subscribe to my email list below if you’d like to receive monthly updates with new posts, tips, and travel recaps! 

(Disclosure: This post is a paid collaboration with Enjoy the Wood, Pins US, and KnackPack) 

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December 3, 2019 at 7:10 am

Those socks! Where have they been all my adult life?!

December 3, 2019 at 6:30 pm

I don’t know, but what I do know is that everybody is getting socks from me this year LOL

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Here are 50 + of the Best Gifts for Friends going Travelling

Buying presents whether for Christmas, birthdays or gifts for friends going travelling can be difficult. If like me you want your travel gifts to be thoughtful, of value and most of all be useful, it can be a challenge when shopping.

Worry not, Passport and Piano is here to help with this list of 50+ travel gift ideas.

This article may contain compensated links. Please read my  disclaimer policy for more info.

To help you purchase the best gifts for travelers, I’ve divided this post into categories and given you some useful tips on how to choose the best travel presents for your friends.

Why should you trust me?

I spend over six months of the year traveling for work, and I’ve learnt how to pack both effectively and efficiently over the years. Long gone are the times when I’d have to sit on my suitcase to get it to close.

Top travel gifts bought by my friends and family such as packing cubes, cable organisers and a travel wallet have all helped make my travel adventures that much easier.

In this post, you’ll find good gifts for travelers that will enhance their experience of travel and tick the boxes of thoughtfulness, provide value and be of use.

Gifts for people who travel

1. packing cubes.

Whether you travel for business or pleasure, [easyazon_link identifier=”B00R280UQM” locale=”US” tag=”passportand0e-20″ cart=”n”]a set of packing cubes[/easyazon_link] is one of the best gifts for people who like to travel.

Packing cubes have transformed the way I pack.

They are a superb way of organising your suitcase. No more rummaging through the case only to find the item you are looking for was on the top in the first place.

Packing cubes make fantastic gifts for people who travel for work – I can vouch for this. I often move around hotels frequently when traveling on business.

Before I was introduced to packing cubes, I had to keep packing and unpacking everywhere I went, trust me this isn’t fun. Now if I know I’ll only be staying in one place for a few days, I pack a specific cube for that stay.

Packing cubes are genius gifts for people who travel a lot and for anyone who wants a suitcase in which they can immediately find something.

2. Travel towel

I always pack a [easyazon_link identifier=”B01MF8JTCN” locale=”US” tag=”passportand0e-20″ cart=”n”]quick-drying travel towel[/easyazon_link] wherever I travel. You may ask why, as hotels usually provide them, but they are so useful if you’re going out for the day.

They’re fantastic for boat trips, on the beach, train travel, freshening up at the airport and the list goes on. These microfibre towels are super soft and very quick to dry. Trust me its one of the most useful travel gifts you can give to someone.

3. Water Bottle

Environmental and sustainable travel is of high importance today and reducing the world’s plastic should be top of everyone’s agenda.

These water bottles by Hydro Cell are designed to keep liquids either hot or cold so they’re perfect for travelling.

Reusable water bottles are fantastic gifts for friends going travelling. Hotels will often be happy to refill them at the bar with filtered water, thus reducing the need to buy water in plastic bottles.

4. Collapsible water bottle

Saving space is always excellent, and collapsible water bottles make great gifts for someone travelling abroad long term.

You can roll, fold and freeze these collapsible water bottles and as a bonus the company donates a portion of the profits to dolphin rescue.

5. Metal drinking straws

Plastic straws in many places are now being replaced by environmentally friendly ones, but sadly this not the case everywhere.

These are both sustainable and reusable, which makes them great gifts for someone traveling abroad.

6. Lens pen and DSLR Camera Cleaning Kit

Camera lenses are prone to gathering dust, sand and dirt no matter how careful you are. Nobody wants to see specks on your photographs, and these are just the ticket to ensure the lenses stay clean.

They come complete with a lens pen, an air blower, 50 special tissues, lens cleaner and a microfibre cloth.

7. Travel Pillow

Everyone loves a travel pillow, and they make fantastic Christmas gifts for travellers.

The J pillow with added chin support won British invention of the year. Having recently purchased one I can vouch that its much more comfortable than my U shaped one.

Whether you go for the neck version or a[easyazon_link identifier=”B07VFH641Z” locale=”US” tag=”passportand0e-20″ cart=”n”] wrap-around scarf[/easyazon_link] , your friends are sure to love this gift.

For days out on the beach or a boat, these dry bags are essential.

They keep your things both safe and dry. If you’re worried about getting your valuables like mobile phones wet these dry bags are the perfect way of protecting them.

You can read more about these bags in this review of the best snorkeling gear.

You can take them into the water with you to ensure that your valuables stay dry. They’re also great for putting wet swimwear in after a day on the beach or when moving hotels.

9. Sandless Beach mat

If you’re looking for gift ideas for people who travel to the beach regularly this beach mat is a winner.

Dry sand falls straight off it, ensuring that it stays on the beach and doesn’t return home with you. If like me you love the beach but hate the fact that sand seems to get everywhere when you return home, a sandless beach mat is a must.

The bright colour choices make it easy to spot on the beach and its generous size which will accommodate up to seven adults. The best bit is it folds down small and is easy to store in its compression sack.

10. Travel Slippers

If you don’t like to walk barefoot on floors easy to pack slippers are great gifts for someone who likes to travel.

Even high-end hotels that provide slippers never have those that fit snuggly around your feet, so no matter where I go I always pack mine.

These [easyazon_link identifier=”B07BRDW5X9″ locale=”US” tag=”passportand0e-20″ cart=”n”]Snoozies Skinnies[/easyazon_link] come in a range of sizes and designs. They’re lightweight and fold away in a travel pocket.

11. Compression Socks

Compression socks assist circulation in your legs, and experts highly recommend that you wear them for long journeys and particularly on long haul flights.

Due to the length of time that you sit while flying the risk of deep vein thrombosis increases, so compression socks make excellent gifts for a friend going travelling.

12. TSA Travel Locks

Keeping your luggage safe should always be a priority as its not unknown for people to plant things in your suitcase. They also come in useful for lockers in hostels and on trains. Trust me, TSA friendly locks make good gifts for people who travel.

You can read more about the best TSA travel locks here .

13. Noise-reducing Wireless headphones

Travelling can be a noisy experience as can sitting around a pool relaxing, but with a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, you can switch off and listen to your preferred taste in music.

They’re not the cheapest gifts for travel lovers, but they’ll be a present that they adore.

These headphones by Sony have 35 hours worth of battery life and a quick charge capability. They are Alexa enabled for voice control and the built-in microphone lets you make hands free calls.

14. Hanging toiletry bag

Most people put their toiletries in a bag, but these hanging ones go one step further. You can neatly arrange your bottles in them and hang the bag in the bathroom on arrival at your destination.

There’s no need to unpack and repack which makes life so much easier. Hanging toiletry bags make fantastic travel gifts for friends, and you’d be surprised at how much you can fit in them.

15. Nanopresso Portable coffee maker

This is the perfect gift for travelers who are coffee connoisseurs and can’t bear the thought of starting the day with a cup of instant.

No electricity or battery back is needed with this portable coffee maker. All you have to do is add boiling water and with the help of the 18 bar pressure pump, you’ll be able to enjoy your favourite coffee anywhere.

If you prefer the capsules to ground coffee you can buy a [easyazon_link identifier=”B076DGY1NS” locale=”US” tag=”passportand0e-20″ cart=”n”]Nanopresso NS Adapter[/easyazon_link] or [easyazon_link identifier=”B078GM6FFH” locale=”US” tag=”passportand0e-20″ cart=”n”]Nanopresso Barista Kit[/easyazon_link].

16. Multi-tool penknife

While penknives are not strictly travel-related gifts, they are handy to carry on your journey.

We’ve all been there when you buy a bottle a wine and discover you need a corkscrew or a pair of scissors to cut off a label. Carrying a penknife with multi-tools means that you’ll have everything covered.

17. Toothbrush sanitizer

When traveling on public transport or staying in hostels, shared bathrooms are inevitable. Hygiene is always an essential part of staying fit and healthy while on the go and keeping your toothbrush free from germs will give you peace of mind.

The levels of bacteria that accumulate on toothbrushes is staggering.  It takes only 3 weeks of use to build more than 80 x the level of bacteria that you find in toilet water.  Never mind buying one as a present get one for yourself if you don’t aready have one.

18. Rain Poncho

Rain can ruin a day trip if you don’t have the right attire and a travel poncho is a great item to keep in your day bag.

You can read more about the best rain ponchos in this article.

They can be excellent cheap travel gifts as they start at for just a few dollars, however, if you want to treat your friend to something a little more stylish like the one below, you’ll have to spend a bit more.

18. Head Torch

I often pack a head torch when travelling, and you’d be surprised how often it comes in use.

I recently went on safari in Pilanesburg and forgot to pack one. I was staying in at a luxury lodge and didn’t think I would need one as it had electricity. However, the paths were so dark on the way back to the cabins you needed one.

Head torches also come in useful if you are camping or going inside caves so for outdoor enthusiasts they are useful travel gift items.

19. Scrubba Portable wash bag

If you are looking for practical going away present ideas this portable wash bag makes washing your clothes simple.

No more filling the sink and getting water everywhere. For people backpacking or travelling for several weeks, these wash bags come in handy.

I use mine regularly to wash my underwear when I’m away on business as hotel laundry is extortionate.

They’re easy to use as all you do is put your dirty clothes, water and detergent inside. You then give them a scrub, before rinsing and hanging up to dry.

20. Sleeping Bag Liner

A sleeping bag liner is one of the best gifts for road trip travelers. Using a liner protects your camping gear or you can use them in hostels if the bedding isn’t the best.

You can unzip the Vumos sleeping bag liner to make a large flat sheet. The material is soft, silky and breathable so you’ll be sure of a good nights sleep.

They also have a pillow pocket at the top, and plenty of room if you’re a tall person.

21. RFID blocking travel wallet

Credit and bank card theft is a problem the world over and thieves no longer need to steal your card. They can get your details without you taking your card out of your pocket or purse and then use them online fraudulently.

Keeping your cards in an RFID wallet protects them. The Venture 4th travel wallet has three separate compartments so can keep your passport and documents safe.

It’s designed with international travel safety and the long strap makes it challenging for thieves to steal.

22. National Geographic Books

You might not be able to give someone the gift of travel, but National Geographic has books which will give a friend plenty of inspiration.

Most people are aware of the national geographic, and the photography in their magazines is enough to entice anyone to get the travel bug.

23. Kindle unlimited membership

A year’s membership to kindle unlimited can be one of the best gifts for world travelers who love to read.

Carrying books is not practical when you’re travelling for long periods, and downloading books can be expensive.

Kindle Unlimited is an online library that has thousands of books that you can read for free. There’s plenty of travel guides on there including big names like Lonely planet as well as magazines, fiction novels and autobiographies.

Travel Gifts for Her

24. underwear travel organiser.

There’s nothing worse than have your expensive underwear scrunched up in a suitcase.

Underwired bras are particularly susceptible to getting damaged, so an underwear travel organiser is up there amongst great travel gifts for women.

Lingerie organisers make sure that you can find that matching set with ease. The box is sturdy and there’s a waterproof lined zipped compartment to ensure your dry items stay fresh and clean.

25. Bra packer

Amongst great gift ideas for a traveling woman is this bra packer which is an excellent alternative to an underwear organiser.

Packing your bras, in this case, will ensure that stay pristine and prevent them from getting damaged in your suitcase. There’s plenty of colours and designs if the style above is not to your liking.

26. Prettycare eye mask

Long haul flights can take their toll on your body. Nobody likes to have black circles under their eyes, and lack of sleep is the number one cause.

If you are looking for gift ideas for her that she’ll appreciate, a top-quality eye mask is perfect. These ones by Prettycare are ultra-thin and the high-density memory foam makes them super soft.

27. Travel Jewellery box

What girl doesn’t love her jewellery? However, if like myself, you never know where to pack your earrings and accessories, then a travel jewellery box will make one of the best travel gifts for her.

The jewellery case comes gift wrapped and is presented in a beautiful gold box. Inside there’s enough room for 14 pairs of earrings, 6 necklaces with pouches to hold any pendants and two zipped inner pockets to store watches or bracelets.

28. Go Toob Travel Containers

Shampoo, conditioner, body wash and suntan lotion all take-up lots of space. While you can purchase travel-sized versions, they’re not the most environmentally friendly option.

These reusable travel containers make fantastic travel gifts for women. They’re made from silicone and the wide opening makes them easy to fill. They also have a non-drip valve which prevents liquids spilling out and they’re approved for airline carry-on luggage.

29. Go Tubb Travel containers

While Go Toob bottles take care of the liquids, their travel containers are perfect for moisturising creams and makeup.

They make perfect gifts for someone who loves to travel with all their beauty products. The containers are also useful for carrying medicines and they meet food safety standards.

30. Shampoo bars

Bottles of shampoo take valuable space in your luggage, so these bars are great gifts for world travelers who are going away for long periods.

Shampoo bars are a fantastic way to help the planet in the reduction of plastic waste. These eco-friendly bars are also suitable for vegans.

The sampler set that I’m suggesting contains 3 beautifully fragranced shampoo bars and 2 conditioning blocks.

The packaging is biodegradable and the company also sell deodorants, body washes and face cleansing bars.

31. Fashion Pocket Scarf

These are one of the best travel accessory gifts to buy a friend, especially if they don’t like to carry a handbag.

The scarf has hidden pockets which are great for storing your passport or money.

Access to the zipped pocket is easy, so not only does it keep your valuables safe, but it also makes it super easy to find your passport at check-in.

Sarongs are so versatile they make great gifts for female travelers. You can use them as scarves or cover up when visiting temples. They are also useful to wrap around yourself at the beach or pool. You can even turn them into makeshift bags; they are the most versatile item you can pack.

These beautiful Rayong sarongs are made in Bali.  They’re suitable for all shape sizes and if the above design is not for, there’s plenty more colours and patterns to choose from.

Travel Gifts for Men

33. travel cufflink and tie box.

For men, a travel cufflink and tie box is both a fantastic and useful gift for someone traveling on business.

The wallet has a reinforced plastic structure which prevents your ties from creases while traveling.  It can easily fit 6 ties and the handy zipped pocket is great for storing cufflinks and tie pins.

Travel Gifts for Couples

34. world adapter with usb ports.

When you travel with your partner, you often have twice the amount of technical gadgets to charge, which can be a challenge if you only have one travel plug.

Having an adapter that you can use in most countries around the globe with multiple USB sockets means that you can charge several mobile devices at once. These type of adapters are reasonably expensive, but they make great gifts for travelling couples or solo travellers.

35. Portable power bank

If you’re looking for road trip gift ideas, a portable power bank is one of the travel items I never leave home without.

It’s particularly useful for long journeys in the car and in countries where there may be frequent load shedding or power cuts. The Anker Powercore portable charger has an ultra-high capacity, its reasonably lightweight and it offers high-speed charging.

36. Portable hard drive

An excellent portable hard drive with plenty of storage space is one of the gifts for international travelers that they’ll appreciate.

With digital technology, we’re all guilty of taking thousands of pictures and being able to save them on hard drive frees up valuable storage space on your devices.

The LA Cie portable hard drive is both shock, drop and pressure-resistant so there’s no need to worry about packing it in a rucksack.

38. Adventure Fund – Money Saving Suitcase

A money-saving jar is one of those gift ideas for someone going travelling that’s a bit of fun. They are, of course, handy, particularly if the person you’re buying the gift for is trying to save money to fund their adventure.

I like to save money in mine throughout the year as I always find the extra savings come in useful for day trips and vacation gifts for friends and family back home.

There’s a slit at the top to put your money in and a stopper at the bottom to get the money you’ve saved out again

39. Mobile Phone lenses

Many people now rely only on their mobile phone to take pictures. Although the quality is often good, friends who like photography will not be disappointed with this set of lenses.

Phone lenses are great gifts for people who travel a lot or those who love photography. They offer excellent value for money and the company provide a one-year free return and replacement offer.

The set of lenses includes a fisheye, telephoto, wide-angle, and macro lens. They are compatible with a wide range of phones including iPhones and Samsung mobiles.

40. Selfie stick

Travel ideas, especially for the younger generation, usually involve social media platforms and sharing selfies of themselves in exciting places.

A selfie stick is one of the best travel presents for any Instagram lover.

41. Phone Tripod

Another of the more useful travel things is a mini tripod.

These are fantastic if you need to hold the camera or smartphone still for long periods of like. For instance, when you go whale watching or on safari, having a tripod makes catching those unforgettable memories that much easier.

If you don’t mind splashing the cash, a full-size carbon fibre travel tripod is an excellent gift for a friend going abroad who loves photography.

Unique Travel Gifts

42. personalised luggage labels.

I’m sure you’ve been there waiting at the carousel debating is that suitcase yours or not. Personalised luggage labels make take away this dilemma, and they make fantastic gifts for people who love to travel.

You can customize these luggage tags and choose the colour to add that personal touch. They ship within a couple of days and make cute travel gifts.

43. Passport Cover

Personalised passport covers are fantastic presents for people who travel. There’s a wide arrange of styles to choose from. Below are a few of my favourites.

44. Packable Umbrella

A travel umbrella makes a good gift for someone traveling to wetter climates like Ireland . The country isn’t nicknamed the emerald isles without reason, and there’s a good chance of it raining at any time of the year.

While rain ponchos are great for quick bursts of rain, if it’s going to downpour all day, you’ll stay drier if you carry an umbrella.

Umbrellas are also good to shade you from the sun, in hot and humid climates such as Thailand .

45. Travel Diary

I love my travel diaries, and they’re a great way of keeping memories alive and preserving memorabilia.

You can record your best and worse moments, favourite restaurants or attractions and use them to reminisce in years to come. They make fantastic gifts for travelling friends or family members.

46. Beeswax Wraps

These beeswax strips are brilliant for wrapping packing lunches in or leftover food.

They’re much more straightforward to pack than foil or clingfilm and if like me you like to take a little more from the breakfast selection than you can eat, you can quickly wrap yourself a takeaway lunch. SSSh, I never admitted that.

47. Gluten-Free Travel Cards

For friends who are gluten intolerant, this is one of the fantastic gifts for traveling abroad that you can purchase.

Dining out with any dietary requirement can be tricky whenever you’re away from home, and it can put a downer on any vacation.

Jodi Ettenberg of Legal Nomads is a celiac who has created these fantastic cards. Theses translation cards that have accurate information on about your dietary needs, including the risk of cross-contamination.

Below are some examples of the cards which make the best gifts for someone travelling that is gluten intolerant.

47. Yoga Paws

Yoga is growing in popularity, and of course, there are a plethora of mediation and yoga retreat vacations. However, packing a yoga mat can create to much bulk in your luggage.

These yoga paws are one of the best travel gift ideas for friends who like their yoga. They are also great to take to classes at the local gym or to use in hotel gyms where the floor area can often be small.

Fun Travel Gifts

48. scratch map.

If you travel a lot like me, people are always asking where you’ve been. A scratch map is an easy and fun way of showing off the destinations that you’ve visited.

Wanderlust maps include a picker and a gift tag. Its great fun scratching off the gold and the maps include stickers to add special memories. You get two maps with Wanderlust, one of the world and an individual one of the USA.

49. Magnetic Globe

Cool travel gifts don’t come much better than this globe.

The globe floats and rotates in mid-air and the gadget can be illuminated when you switch with the LED light feature. It looks great on a desk and would brighten up any workspace.

50. Cork Globe

You can use the magnetic pins to mark all the places in the world that you’ve traveled to or like myself mark all the countries in the world you’d like to visit.

The globe is ten inches in diameter and comes with 40 multi-coloured pins. It makes a fun leaving present for someone going travelling and looks great on a desk.

Travel Gift Bag Ideas

51. foldaway travel bag.

A bag to use for shopping or the beach is always useful and can help reduce the need for plastic carry bags.

These foldaway bags are excellent and take very little room in the suitcase. There are so many options for foldaway bags that they make great gifts for someone going on vacation.

52. Beach Bag

If you’re looking for gifts for someone going to Hawaii or beach destinations, a beach bag will be a much loved and used present.

The bottom section of this bag is a detachable insulated cooler bag which is fantastic for keeping drinks and snacks fresh whilst on a day trip.

Passport and Piano is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

Hi, I’m Fiona Berry- I live in Lancashire in the North of England, but my job as an instrumental music examiner takes me all over the world. Travel has enriched my life in so many ways and allowed me to experience different cultures, make new friends and see extraordinary sights. Through this blog, I share my knowledge and expertise so that my readers have all the resources they require to ensure their travels provide unique and unforgettable memories to destinations that are beyond the ordinary.

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21 Brilliant Gifts for Friends Going Abroad

Looking for the best gifts for friends going abroad? This list will give you the inspiration you need to show your loved one how special they are to you, with a carefully thought out present for their travels.

If you have a friend about to embark on an amazing adventure overseas, you’ll want to get them the perfect gift! Travelling is a wonderful experience, but it can also be challenging – especially when it comes to staying connected with loved ones back home, and avoiding occasional homesickness.

So, here’s a list of the best gifts for friends going abroad to help them through any difficult times. These presents are both unique and practical and will help your friend stay connected and comfortable during their travels – they’re all tried and tested!

I’ve tried to include going away gift ideas for a range of budgets, from around a tenner, to a grand – we can dream!

Top gifts for friends going abroad

All the best gifts for someone travelling abroad…

1. High-quality carry-on case

Your friend is going to be doing a lot of travelling, so a high-quality carry-on case is essential. This will help them stay organised and protect their belongings while on the go.

Investing in a good suitcase is always a wise choice, but it’s especially important for someone who travels frequently.

It’s also a nice way to show your friend you’re thinking about their safety and comfort while away.

It’s important to find one that’s the right size for their needs – too big, and it will be difficult to carry, too small, and they won’t be able to fit everything in. 

2. A travel journal

Another great gift for a friend who’s going abroad is a travel journal . This way, they can document their experiences in writing and keep track of all the places they visit and people they meet.

They can write about their day-to-day experiences, thoughts, and feelings, and any special moments they want to remember. Travel journals are available in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can find one that’s perfect for your friend’s needs.

This is one of the best gifts for friends going abroad, as you can pick them up for a decent price too.

3. A waterproof camera

If your friend is going on an adventurous trip and you want them to be able to document all their memories, then gifting them a waterproof camera is the best way to go!

This   type of camera   will enable them to take amazing photos and videos without having to worry about their camera getting wet or damaged. Plus, they’ll be able to capture moments that they may never be able to experience again. So, if you’re looking for a gift to help your friend create lasting memories, then a water-proof camera is perfect.

I have bought cheaper ones in the past, but you really do get what you pay for. I’d recommend the GoPro – I know it’s mega expensive! Even the older ones are still good though, check out eBay or Amazon resales to pick one up for a bit cheaper.

4. GPS drone with 4K camera

If your friend loves photography and tech gadgets, they’ll definitely want a GPS drone with a 4K camera.

A GPS drone with a 4K camera is the perfect way to help them capture all the amazing sights and experiences they’ll encounter. With its high-quality camera, they’ll be able to take stunning photos and videos they can share with friends and family back home. The drone’s GPS capabilities will also come in handy if they want to explore new areas or find their way back to their lodging after a long day of sightseeing.

Best of all, your friend can use the drone to capture memories that will last a lifetime. So if you’re looking for a gift to help your friend make the most of their time abroad, a GPS drone with 4K camera is perfect.

5. Wireless noise-cancelling headphones

If you have a music lover friend who’s always on the go, then a pair of wireless noise-cancelling headphones would be the perfect gift for them!

Not only will they be able to enjoy their music without being disturbed by outside noise, but they’ll also be able to appreciate the quality of the sound thanks to the noise-cancelling technology. And since they’re wireless, they’ll be able to move around freely without worrying about tangled cords.

If you’re looking for a practical and stylish gift for friends going abroad, wireless noise-cancelling headphones are a great choice.

6. Portable hard drive

A portable hard drive is one of the best gifts you can give to a friend who is going abroad. It’ll allow them to easily and quickly store and transport large files, such as photos and videos.

Additionally, it’ll give them the peace of mind of knowing that their data is safe and secure. Portable hard drives are available in a variety of capacities, so you can choose one that meets your friend’s needs. Prices also vary depending on the capacity and features of the drive. Maybe check first, this gift is a bit niche!

This is a great gift for someone going away travelling.

7. Mirror with a map

This is a great gift for your travelling friend, a pocket mirror with a special map on the back .

This personalised map compact pocket mirror can be engraved with a message for that special gift for her. The mirrors are backed with wood, which are bond actual vintage map. You can choose a location from anywhere in the world, no matter how remote or unusual.

It also comes with a linen bag to make it even more special.

8. Mobile hotspot

A mobile hotspot is one of the best gifts you can give to a friend who’s going abroad. It allows them high-speed internet access wherever they go, making it easy to stay connected with family and friends back home. Plus, it’s a great way to stay connected to social media and stay up-to-date on news and events while they’re away. And since it’s compact and portable, they can easily take it with them wherever they go.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a mobile hotspot, such as data usage and speed, but with a little research, you can find the perfect hotspot for your friend’s needs. With a mobile hotspot, your friend will always have the Internet at their fingertips, making it a great gift for anyone who is going abroad.

9. Tech organiser travel case

If your friend is always on the go and needs to take their tech gadgets with them, then a tech organiser travel case is the perfect gift for them!

This going away gift idea is large enough to hold all their essentials, such as their laptop, phone, chargers, and more. Plus, it has a variety of pockets and compartments that make it easy to organise and find everything they need. And since it’s made from durable materials, it will protect their gadgets from bumps and scratches.

The case can be customised to fit their specific needs, making it easier for them to keep track of all their belongings. So if you’re looking for a practical and stylish gift, then a tech organiser travel case is a great choice.

10. Luggage tag

A great gift for a friend going abroad is a luggage tag . It helps your friend to identify their luggage easily, and it also helps to prevent lost luggage.

A good quality luggage tag can also last for many years, making it a very practical gift. There are many different styles of luggage tags available, so you can find one that suits your friend’s personality.

Make sure that the tag is durable and will not fall off easily. Also, you need to choose a tag that is easy to read. And finally, you need to choose a tag that will stand out from other luggage tags.

This is one of the best value gifts for friends going abroad, and you can easily customise it to make it more personal too.

11. Portable Charger

A portable charger is another must-have item for anyone travelling abroad – they make for a great farewell gift for a friend.

With so many electronic devices these days, it’s essential to have a backup way to charge them when there’s no outlet available. A portable charger will come in handy countless times during your friend’s travels, whether they’re trying to snap a photo of that stunning sunset or simply need to call a taxi. There are many different types and sizes of portable chargers on the market, so you’ll be sure to find one that’s perfect for your friend.

12. Luggage straps

Travel can be a freeing and exhilarating experience, but it can also be stressful. One of the best ways to reduce stress while travelling is to be organised, and luggage straps are a great way to keep everything in its place.

Whether your friend is going on a short trip or a round-the-world adventure, these straps will help them keep their belongings secure and prevent lost items. They also make it easier to identify your luggage, which can be a lifesaver when you’re trying to find it on a busy baggage carousel. Straps come in a variety of colours and designs, so you can find a set that your friend will love. They’re an essential item for any traveller, and they make a great gift for anyone who is about to embark on an international adventure.

13. Vouchers for a local activity 

Or, how about a local activity?

14. Tinggly gift voucher

You can’t go wrong with a  Tinggly experience gift voucher . Literally hundreds of bucket-list experiences to choose from, all over the world. It’s perfect for travellers, or just a weekend when there’s nothing to do. And so easy to use: a few clicks and a stylish gift box is winging its way to your partner, or you can email the voucher (with a personalised note of course) if you’re really short on time.

Half the fun with Tinggly is deciding what to do: a romantic hotel stay? A soothing spa day? An exciting skydive? Or something you can share as a couple? And the other half, it’s the memories you get afterwards.

This is a great gift for lovers of the great outdoors .

15. Travel pillow

A travel pillow is a must-have item for anyone who’ll spend a lot of time on airplanes or in airports. It’s important to be comfortable when you’re travelling, and a good travel pillow can make all the difference.

The pillow can be easily folded up and stored in their carry-on luggage, and it will be a great way for them to relax and get some rest while they are away from home. If you know that your friend is going to be spending a lot of time on the plane or in the airport, this is the perfect gift for them.

16. Vacuum-insulated stainless steel travel mug

A vacuum-insulated stainless steel travel mug is a great gift for anyone who travels frequently. This type of mug will keep their drinks hot or cold for hours, and it’s also very durable. The mug is also lightweight and easy to carry, making it the perfect choice for someone who is always on the go.

Additionally, the vacuum-insulated design means that the mug won’t sweat, making it a great choice for use in hot or humid climates. If you know someone who is always on the go, this is the perfect gift for them.

The Kindle makes for the perfect going-away present when your best friend is leaving for a long trip abroad. It is extremely light and portable, making it easy to carry around while travelling.

The Kindle also has a built-in light, so you can read in low-light conditions without straining your eyes. In addition, the Kindle has a huge selection of books, which means your friend will always have something new to read while on their trip. And if they run out of space on their Kindle, they can always use Amazon’s cloud storage to keep more books stored online.

Overall, the Kindle is an ideal gift for any friend who loves to read and is planning on going abroad.

18. Digital luggage scale

A digital luggage scale is a must-have item for any traveller, making it a great gift for your friend who’s going abroad. This handy device will help them weigh their bags before heading to the airport, ensuring they don’t get hit with overweight baggage fees.

The scale is small and compact, so it can easily be tucked into a carry-on bag. And it comes with a built-in LCD screen, so they can easily see the weight of their luggage.

Whether your friend is headed to Europe or Asia, this gift will help them start their trip on the right foot!

19.  A Swiss Army Knife

This is one of the more niche travel gifts on the list, as it’s not always appropriate for travel to some countries or places, and doesn’t always have a use unless your travel plans involve  camping  or surrounding yourself with absolute  wilderness on the open road . Nonetheless, as a multi-purpose gift for travel lovers, it goes a long way in terms of potential usefulness.

The Swiss army knife has plenty of purpose, with inbuilt scissors, nail files, a knife, a can opener, toothpicks and pliers – which are particularly helpful for pulling out splinters and the like. The exact tools will depend on the model of the knife, but a good quality Swiss army knife always makes a perfect and appropriate gift for any seasoned traveller.

Find your  Swiss Army Knives here on Amazon , from £30.

20. Travel board games

The  best travel board games  are a a great idea as a gift for travel lovers. My personal favourite is  Monopoly Deal , but if you click that link there are loads more great ones to choose from!

If you’re looking for some really unique travel gifts, then these travel board games are perfect for you!

21. Flip Flops

Don’t just get any old flip flop, take a look at Gandys flip flops. The guys who created these, Rob and Paul, were caught up in the tsunami in Sri Lanka on Boxing Day 2004, along with their parents. Their mum and dad managed to get their younger siblings up high before both parents were washed away by the waves.

At 13 Rob managed to pull Paul, 11, out of the way and the four children survived.

It was the last time they saw their mum and dad.

They wanted to create something to help other people affected by that day and set up the Gandys social enterprise. I met Paul at a conference and he was a really sound guy who just wanted to help the charities they’ve gone on to support.

Forget the Havaiana flipflops, give the gift of Gandys this Christmas and not only will you make someone flippy floppy happy when they open them, you’ll also make someone’s life better when the money clears.

Gifts for friends going abroad

These are just a few of the best gifts you can give to your friends who are going abroad. Whether they’re headed to Europe or Asia, these unique and practical farewell gifts for friends will help them make the most of their trip.

Do you have a friend who is going abroad? What are you planning on getting them as a going away present? Let me know in the comments below!

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Morning Rundown: Biden rebukes Supreme Court's immunity ruling, Cat. 5 Hurricane Beryl breaks record, trans runner Nikki Hiltz makes Olympics team

'It's a mess': Biden turns to family on his path forward after his disastrous debate

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden is expected to discuss the future of his re-election campaign with family at Camp David, Maryland, on Sunday, following a nationally televised debate Thursday that left many fellow Democrats worried about his ability to beat former President Donald Trump in November, according to five people familiar with the matter.

Biden’s trip was planned before Thursday’s debate. He and first lady Jill Biden are scheduled to join their children and grandchildren there late Saturday.

So far, the party’s top leaders have offered public support for Biden, including in tweets posted by former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton . Senior congressional Democrats , including Reps. Hakeem Jeffries of New York, Jim Clyburn of South Carolina and Nancy Pelosi of California, have privately expressed concerns about his viability, said two sources apprised of those discussions, even as they all publicly back the president.

One Democratic House member who believes Biden should drop out of the race — but has yet to call for that publicly — told NBC News that three colleagues expressed the same sentiment to him during votes on the House floor Friday.

House leaders have not wavered publicly, and their aides denied that they are expressing doubts behind closed doors.

“Speaker Pelosi has full confidence in President Biden and looks forward to attending his inauguration on January 20, 2025,” Ian Krager, a spokesman for the former House speaker, said in a statement. “Any suggestion that she has engaged in a different course of action is simply not true.”

Christie Stephenson, a spokeswoman for Jeffries, the House minority leader, said her boss has “repeatedly made clear publicly and privately that he supports President Joe Biden and the Democratic ticket from top to bottom.”

Brianna Frias said Clyburn, who is traveling to Wisconsin this weekend to campaign for the president, "has total confidence in President Joe Biden and the Biden-Harris ticket.

"Any reports alleging that the Congressman has expressed anything other than firm support of President Biden are completely untrue," Frias said.

At the same time, there is an understanding among top Democrats that Biden should be given space to determine next steps. They believe only the president, in consultation with his family, can decide whether to move forward or to end his campaign early — and that he won’t respond well to being pushed.

“The decision-makers are two people — it’s the president and his wife,” one of the sources familiar with the discussions said, adding: “Anyone who doesn’t understand how deeply personal and familial this decision will be isn’t knowledgeable about the situation.”

This account of a president and his party in crisis just a little more than four months before an election they say will determine the fate of democracy is drawn from interviews with more than a dozen Democratic officials, operatives, aides and donors. All of them spoke on the condition of anonymity in order to describe matters as sensitive as whether a sitting president might give up his re-election bid and how he could be replaced on the ballot.

Despite delivering a rousing speech at a rally in North Carolina on Friday that calmed some of his allies, Biden was described by one person familiar with his mood as humiliated, devoid of confidence and painfully aware that the physical images of him at the debate — eyes staring into the distance, mouth agape — will live beyond his presidency, along with a performance that at times was meandering, incoherent and difficult to hear.

“It’s a mess,” this person said.

Another person familiar with the dynamics said Biden will ultimately listen to only one adviser.

“The only person who has ultimate influence with him is the first lady,” this person said. “If she decides there should be a change of course, there will be a change of course.”

After article was published, a source familiar with the situation reached out to stress that the Camp David gathering was not a formal family meeting.

“Any discussion about the campaign is expected to be informal or an afterthought,” the source said. “No one is sitting down for a formal or determinative discussion.”

Anita Dunn, one of Biden’s handful of closest advisers, said Saturday on MSNBC’s “The Weekend” that Biden has not discussed dropping out of the race with aides and that internal talks have focused on moving forward.

“We had a bad debate,” Dunn said. “What do we do next? You know, the president, above all, is focused on what do we do next? What do I need to go do?”

These private discussions among Biden, his family members and his top advisers are being held against the backdrop of a reckoning for Democrats who were shocked both by Biden’s appearance and the frequency with which his train of thought appeared to veer off track.

His campaign held a conference call Saturday with members of the Democratic National Committee, which a Biden campaign official described as an effort to reassure party officials and demonstrate that his team is communicating with its allies.

“We’re driving this,” the official said.

Biden’s top aides and advisers have told his staff to stay the course in meetings and discussions. Their message, according to one senior administration official: “We’ll weather the storm, just like we always have.”

Sources have described three buckets of Democrats: those who will defend Biden under any circumstances, those who are ready to dump him, and those who are waiting to see what he does — and what his poll numbers look like in the coming days and weeks — before passing judgment. It’s the third bucket that Democratic insiders are monitoring closely.

“Democrats need to take a big breath and look at that polling, look at swing voters,” said one state Democratic Party chair. “Until I see something differently, he’s the person that’s put this coalition together, he’s the person that has the record, he’s the person that beat Donald Trump. Until I see something differently, he’s still the best person to beat Donald Trump.”

The Biden campaign declined to comment for this piece, instead pointing to a memo Saturday from campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon that made the case that Biden can still win, pointing to the more than $27 million they raised between debate day and Friday evening.

Notably, however, O’Malley Dillon nodded to the possibility that there might be some tough polling ahead — but said the blame will rest with the media: “If we do see changes in polling in the coming weeks, it will not be the first time that overblown media narratives have driven temporary dips in the polls.”

The discussions among some Democrats include weighing what the party’s best path to defeating Trump might be — sticking with an 81-year-old incumbent who could have another moment like Thursday night at any time between now and Election Day, or going with a different candidate whose path to nomination at the party’s convention next month could be a messy process.

Biden insisted Friday that he will remain the party’s standard-bearer in November, telling a crowd at his rally in North Carolina: “I would not be running again if I didn’t believe with all my heart and soul I can do this job.”

The president has spent much of the past 48 hours attending fundraising events with some of the very Democrats most concerned about the impact of his debate performance.

He addressed it head-on at one event Saturday.

“I understand the concern about the debate — I get it,” he added. “I didn’t have a great night.”

Party elites will urge him to exit the race only if they determine that he is “not viable and negatively impacting the House and Senate races,” said one big-time donor who is close to both Obama and Biden.

Inherent in the wait-and-see approach is an acknowledgment that there is no clear replacement for Biden and that his departure could touch off a bloody eleventh-hour intraparty battle that might allow Trump to cruise to victory.

There’s also no feasible way to force him from his perch. All but a handful of the delegates to the Democratic convention were elected on their pledge to nominate him at the party’s convention in August. If he chooses to stand for that nomination, party insiders say, he will get it.

Moreover, according to a senior Democratic official, the party leadership would have much more control over choosing a replacement if Biden were to drop out after receiving the nomination than if he did so beforehand. Once a candidate is officially nominated, there is a process for the Democratic National Committee members to choose a successor. Biden is the dominant force at the DNC, and his preference for a successor would surely carry sway.

If Biden were to exit before that, his delegates might do what he asked of them — but they wouldn’t be bound in the same way they are now. In that scenario, the delegates could nominate anyone, and there could be a political brawl at the convention.

“We need to have as much discipline as emotion,” the senior Democratic official said. “It’s not politically smart for Biden to step down.”

Carol E. Lee is the Washington managing editor.

Kristen Welker is the moderator of "Meet the Press."

Jonathan Allen is a senior national politics reporter for NBC News, based in Washington.

Mike Memoli is an NBC News correspondent. 

Monica Alba is a White House correspondent for NBC News.

70 Best Birthday Gifts for Every Type of Guy

From thoughtful and unique presents to practical and useful gift ideas, we've got you (and your man) covered.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Woman's Day editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Our list of the best birthday gifts for him includes gifts under $20 as well as splurge presents for those big birthday milestones. We have gifts for grillers , gifts for gardeners , and gifts for the fitness guy . But not every man falls into broad categories, which is why we have some unique gift ideas that only he'll appreciate. We have practical gift ideas like socks (but, you know, the best socks) as well as extravagant gift ideas , like a portable movie projector for his cinema club. And as expected, we have many, many ideas for the whiskey lover.

The majority of our picks are under $100 and you may even be able to swing two or three for the ultimate present package. Happy hunting!

Mounted Phone Holder for Car

Help him go truly hands-free with a phone mount for his car. This is a great gift for any man who wants to use their phone for navigational purposes while driving.

Contigo 20-oz Stainless Steel Travel Mugs (Set of 2)

Look, we're not giving him permission to lose one of these leak-proof travel mugs, we just know it's going to happen regardless. If he's not a guy who tends to lose things, great!

Sky Viper Dash Nano Drone

Indulge his inner child with the Dash Nano Drone, small enough to fit inside his palm yet powerful enough to zip around the house and record in HD.

Personalized Pet Driver License ID Tags

How friggin' cute is this ID tag? All you need is a picture of his pup and some basic information to customize one of these for his best friend.

RELATED: Funny Gifts for Men With a Sense of Humor

Fanlory Screen Magnifier for Smartphones

You cannot go wrong with a screen magnifier as a present, especially if your guy is an airplane traveler. By simply placing his smartphone behind the screen, he can easily stream his favorite YouTube series, watch his favorite MAX shows, and Facetime with his mom without having to squint ever again.

Joking Hazard by Cyanide & Happiness Party Game

Thousands of Amazon buyers vouch for Joking Hazard, an easy-to-learn game for three to 10 people. If he's been following Cyanide & Happiness since the internet's early days, he'll appreciate this game all the more.

Razer Basilisk V3 Gaming Mouse

This customizable gaming mouse is beloved by Amazon reviewers for its comfort in their palms and responsiveness during PC gaming.

Kona Best BBQ Grill Mat

Thousands agree this is the ultimate gift for the grillmaster in your life. These non-stick grilling mats allow him to easily and safely make the juiciest steaks, chicken, sausages, and so much more all while making cleanup an absolute breeze.

Crocs Unisex Classic Clogs

Crocs all day, y'all! If he has a few pairs already, he needs one more. If he refuses to wear them, get him a pair to lure him over to the dark side. It only takes one before he's a full-time user.

Dangbei Neo Smart Projector

Is he always going on about the Criterion Collection? Make his whole year with a portable projector, perfect for playing movies anywhere. Buyers love this model for its crisp picture quality and vivid colors.

RAK Pro Tools Magnetic Wristband

Whatever project he's working on next, he'll love using this magnetic wristband to conveniently hold all of his nails, screws, and drill bits in one place.

GOLDTOE Men's Davenport Invisible Socks

You know what he actually needs? Socks. The six-pack from GOLDTOE comes with several color options (including plain white if that's more of his look) and has rave reviews. Is it exciting? Maybe not. Is it practical? Yes.

RELATED: The Most Practical Gifts for Everyone

Avery Atomic Habits by James Clear

Nearly six years after its release, Atomic Habits is still lingering near the top of Amazon's bestseller chart. Readers swear by the efficiency tips in this book, and he will, too!

Ninja DoubleStack XL 2 Basket Multi Rack Air Fryer

Whether he's the father to multiple kids or living that bachelor life, he'll never regret getting an air fryer with two separate drawers. The Doublestack from Ninja allows him to make a full-on dinner — complete with a roast chicken. A roast chicken! Technology has truly peaked.

RELATED: Cool Kitchen Gadgets

TOSY 16 Million Color Flying Disc

Flying discs? Boring. Flying discs that project the rainbow when you throw them? Awesome! All it takes is a 30-minute charge for 90 straight minutes of game time.

Veitorld Small Survival Kit

He probably wouldn't survive a zombie apocalypse with this kit, but it would make a few days out in the woods easier. There are 12 multi-use tools in this little pack, making it perfect for keeping in his tent or truck should he suddenly need to saw something in half with a wire or eat with a spork.

Etekcity Digital Food Scale

Digital food scales are a must if he's bulking up, whether that be by upping his daily protein intake or by baking tons of cookies. He can use it to weight meat after hitting the gym, or to measure the flour for his sourdough loaf.

Shark FlexBreeze Fan With InstaCool Mist Attachment

If he's constantly overheating (even in the cooler months), surprise him with a fan that will make him 10 degrees cooler using a mist attachment. He can also use it as a tabletop fan and control it with a nifty remote!

Forget Monopoly — this beer-themed drinking game (which challenges players to do a variety of tasks as they make their way around the board and sip on their adult beverages) is way more fun.

Shiitake Mushroom Log Kit

All he'll need to grow his own mushrooms inside is patience, TLC, and a dark, cool place to store this unique shiitake growing kit. He can even re-soak and harvest the edible fungi every six weeks or so for up to three years.

Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan , where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent . Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé. 

Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan , Woman’s Day , Good Housekeeping , and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter .

After over a decade as a digital editor, Maggie Panos is navigating freelance writing and full-time parenting. She covered entertainment for POPSUGAR from New York and San Francisco before setting down roots in tree-covered Portland and focusing on local journalism. A self-proclaimed "okay baker", Maggie is interested in all things lifestyle — especially if those things involve Bravolebrities. 

.css-a5v893:before{top:1.4rem;left:calc(-50vw + 50%);width:100vw;height:0.0625rem;z-index:-1;content:'';position:absolute;border-top:0.0625rem solid #D4D4D4;} Best Holiday Gifts 2023

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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Irish Self-Tanners Do It Better

An Irish summer isn’t really “summer” in the sunshine sense. Although there are pockets of good weather, there’s never any guarantee of sun. Ever. It’s entirely unpredictable. The “forecast” invariably says showers, and even that isn’t a given. You just deal with whatever the weather throws at you on an hourly basis and always carry both sunglasses AND an umbrella , just in case . “Ireland would be a great country,” people love to say “if you could put a roof on it!”

Almost daily cloud cover means the concern is often more about adequate Vitamin D than SPF, and as for tanning? Yeah, that’s going to be from a bottle. Now, people in Ireland know some things better than others. A sharp wit. The best butter in the world. That kind of thing. The freckled and fair-skinned types also know fake tanner , and some of the best fake tanner brands come out of Ireland. You’ve heard of the Irish Goodbye, but have you heard of the Irish Hello? It’s most common during the summer when Irish people meet and don’t just say “ Hello’” they say “ Hello, is that tan real or fake?”

This is how my fellow fair-skinned Irish friend, the actress/comedian Aisling Bea greeted me when we met recently at Altro Paradiso for lunch with our (Irish-American) friend SNL Producer Erin Doyle. Aisling has skin so pale that when she has a single layer of fake tan on, you can’t even tell. She will readily tell you this. I, too, share this affliction. At the start of summer, I have to apply two layers of tan before my blindingly white legs are fit for public consumption. And by the way, this isn’t even to get a “sun-kissed” look — very pale people such as ourselves sometimes use fake tanner just to take the blue out of our translucent skin.

A few years ago, I met my Dublin friend Nicky for a drink, I think it was at Dudley’s on Orchard St. “ Is that tan real or fake?” I said, before she even sat down. “It’s Tan Organic oil,” she told me. “I just put it on this morning.”

As an airline Captain for Aer Lingus (I know, cool!), Nicky wears a white shirt as part of her uniform, so putting on fake tan before a flight seemed a bit ill advised to me. “Did that not stain your shirt?” I wondered. “No!” She said, telling me this particular tan doesn’t transfer even on white clothes. My eyes almost popped out of my head. Excuse me?! Fake tan stains are such a part of contemporary Irish living that my sister Sinead buys exclusively dark bed sheets for her fake-tanning teen daughters, and even then, her OCD level clean-freakiness can’t cope.

Then Nicky told me Tan Organic doesn’t smell either. I was sold. On her next flight to NYC, she brought me a bottle of the tanning oil. (This was before it was available in the US, now you can get it on Amazon). I was excited, but had no idea how much this stuff was going to change how I used fake tanner.

My old fake tan process went like this: Apply at night — always at night — using gloves. Sleep in pajamas and sheets that you are okay staining and knowing the next day will need to be laundry day. But now with Tan Organic, I do it differently. I apply whenever I feel like it, often in the morning. I apply a small amount of oil in a thin layer all over, starting with the calves and working up. I don’t use gloves. And, I have learned over the years to do my own back using the backs of my hands (Pilates has helped with the contortions involved with that). The oil feels more like a dry oil — it’s not greasy like say, baby oil. Your skin feels moisturized, but not tacky.

After applying oil to the whole body, I take a small bit of body lotion and apply to elbows, knees and feet/ankles which brings down the intensity of the tan in those areas. Then I wash my hands and apply a drop of oil to the back of one hand and rub the backs of both hands together. That’s followed by a touch more lotion, which I rub into my hands like you would with hand cream, including the palms and wrists. Finally, I wipe off the excess from the palms with a damp washcloth. This really helps keep the tan even on the hands and wrists.

The oil absorbs remarkably fast into the skin and I even sit on my cream-colored sofa without worrying about leaving a fake tan stain. (I shudder remembering one Real Housewife of Beverly Hills rudely leaving the most offensive fake tan stain on Lisa Vanderpump’s white upholstery, and if I recall correctly, she was barely apologetic about it!) Within a couple of hours, my legs already get a really realistic tan, in fact it was the color that my skin actually goes when I have a real tan. I’d call the results a Light Bronze shade. If you want to, you can attain a deeper color by adding a second layer. I have done that and it works. (Tan Organic also offers lotion and a mousse for a darker tan, though I haven’t tried those.)

There was one element of Tan Organic oil I was a bit wary of: It goes on clear. Previous experiences with “goes on clear” tans have never worked out for me. Goes on clear, shows up patchy and streaky more like. I am delighted to report this was not an issue with Tan Organic. It’s so easy to get complete, even coverage. And true to Captain Nicky’s word, the tan hardly smells of anything.

The Strategist  is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about  here . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

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Today’s Top Clicked

• Washington State University
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Grateful couple donates to support veterinary oncology at WSU

Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine provided Paul and Lynnea Thibodaux with one of the most precious gifts they could ask for — more time with their beloved Australian shepherds, Doc and Rubie.

During the past decade and a half, the Thibodauxs have made the four-and-a-half-hour drive east from their home near Ellensburg, Washington, to Pullman and the WSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital more times than they can count.

Their travels, spanning from Doc’s battle against an inoperable brain tumor to the treatments Rubie received for melanoma, ensured access to some of the most advanced veterinary oncology care in the country. And, most importantly, it meant precious time, as Doc lived for nearly five years after his tumor was discovered, and Rubie survived for a year after her diagnosis.

“We appreciate every additional day WSU gave us with our dogs,” Lynnea said. “WSU was so wonderful to Rubie, just like they were with Doc, and we will be forever grateful.”

Since their first visit to the teaching hospital with Doc, Paul and Lynnea have been avid supporters. In 2010, they established an endowment, the Paul and Lynnea Thibodaux Oncology Resident Research Fund in Veterinary Medicine, in honor of Doc and to support cancer research projects for veterinary residents training in oncology. Recently, they made an additional $50,000 gift to help bolster the endowment, as well as documented a gift of the majority of their estate.

The additional funding for the endowment will increase funds available for oncology resident research, leading to improved care and treatments for cancer patients like Doc and Rubie.

Doc’s brain tumor was discovered in 2006, and shortly after, under the care of Drs. Janean Fidel and Rance Sellon at WSU, he began receiving radiation treatments with the teaching hospital’s linear accelerator. His cancer went into remission for four years, during which time Paul and Lynnea welcomed an Aussie puppy into the family. Picked from a litter of 11, the puppy, whom they would name Rubie, immediately stole their hearts.

Unfortunately, Doc passed away in 2010 after his cancer returned and additional treatments proved to be ineffective.

Rubie enjoyed being an only dog for a handful of years before Paul and Lynnea adopted Tobie, a 6-year-old Aussie, and an Aussie pup they named Ellie, all during a three-month span. They later adopted Tip, a young Catahoula, to round out the pack.

“Rubie went from being an only dog to the alpha of the pack,” Paul said. “They have had a lot of fun together and they love playing in the woods on our land.”

In 2020, Toby passed away at the age of 13. Then, in June of 2023, a growth was found on Rubie’s right cheek. After a local veterinarian said the growth appeared to be melanoma, Paul and Lynnea immediately contacted WSU.

“I emailed Dr. Fidel on a Thursday night, and I had a reply by the next day telling us to have her in on Monday. You can’t even get that kind of response in human medicine,” Lynnea said.

During the ensuing year, Rubie underwent several rounds of chemotherapy, primarily under the care of Fidel and Dr. Fernanda Gimenez, who is completing her oncology residency WSU.

“WSU, it just feels like family. I just have the utmost trust in them,” Lynnea said. “It has been nice getting to know the oncology team. Dr. Sellon and Dr. Fidel — they are just awesome. And Dr. Gimenez, she’s such an angel.”

Sadly, Rubie passed away in early June, just shy of her 16 th  birthday, but her family made every day count.

“Her loss leaves a big hole in our hearts, but she left us with so much to remember and cherish,” Lynnea said. “Rubie and our other dogs really are our family. We are just so grateful for every day we have with them.”

WSU employees urged to check direct deposit information

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• Best Budgeting Apps

Compare the Top Budgeting Apps

• Budgeting App Reviews
• Introduction
• Features to Look for
• How to Choose an App
• Setting Up and Using an App
• Pros and Cons
• Alternatives
• Why You Should Trust Us

Best Budgeting Apps of July 2024: Manage Your Finances Efficiently

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us and terms apply to offers listed (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate products and services to help you make smart decisions with your money.

Budgeting can already feel difficult, but with the right money management tool, you should be able to track your spending habits, find ways to spend less and save more, or budget effectively as a couple.

50% off for new customers (offer ends July 14, 2024)

$3.99 monthly subscription or $47.88 annual subscription

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Connect all your bank accounts, investments accounts, and credit cards
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Help you save for individual savings goals
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create a budget
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Track expenses
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 30-day money-back guarantee
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Must buy a subscription (no free option)

Quicken Simplifi is a great budgeting tool if you want to create a detailed monthly spending and savings plan and don't mind paying for a subscription. If you would rather get a budgeting app that doesn't have a subscription fee, you'll have to consider other options.

• Up to 50% off on Simplifi for all new customers
• Stay on top of your finances in under 5 minutes per week.
• Check your custom budgeting plan — anytime, anywhere!
• Track your spending
• See where your money is going and discover places to save.
• Keep your bills in check
• Find subscriptions you don't use and start saving from day one.

Check out our picks for the best budgeting apps, and read more about how we chose the winners.

Best Budgeting Apps of July 2024

• Rocket Money : Best overall for reducing spending and creating a budget
• Monarch Money : Best for saving toward financial goals
• Quicken Simplifi : Best for robust budgeting features
• Honeydue App: Best for couples

The top budgeting apps have a straightforward sign-up process, a decent fee structure, strong budgeting tools, and an overall positive user experience. Learn more about the best budgeting apps, below.

Free to create a budget. Subscription fee applies to premium services.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Connect all your bank accounts, credit cards, and investment accounts to track spending
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Bill negotiation feature
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Free plan available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited features available with free plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited customer support availability

Rocket Money is featured in our best budgeting apps guide. While the Rocket Money app is free, there is a subscription fee if you want to use Premium features, like concierge services or premium chat.

Offers a 7-day free trial

Premium Plan with a 7-day free-trial, then $14.99 per month or $99.99 annually

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Link bank accounts
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create unlimited budgets and make customizable categories
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Track individual savings goals
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Graphs and charts that track your spending and savings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No free plan

Monarch Money is an overall solid option if you prioritize creating monthly budgets and saving for individual savings goals. The main downside of the app is that it doesn't offer a free plan. You'll have to a monthly or annual subscription fee.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Budgeting app for couples
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can have individual and shared finances
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create monthly bill reminders
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can discuss finances through chat feature
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only available through mobile app

Honeydue is featured in our best budgeting apps guide as the best option for couples. It's a great option if you don't want to pay a fee. It also allows you to have individual and shared finances.

Top Budgeting App Reviews

Budgeting looks different for everyone, so we selected four picks for budgeting apps. We selected a well-rounded budgeting app, one designed for couples, another that's appealing for setting goals, and lastly one with more detailed budgeting features.

We have a mix of free budgeting apps and ones that have premium plans with subscription fees, so you can choose an option based on your financial needs and priorities.

Best Overall: Rocket Money

Rocket Money (previously known as TrueBill) is our best budgeting app overall because it has a variety of tools to help you save and limit spending.

Rocket Money has both a free plan and a premium plan. With the free plan, you'll be able to link bank accounts, credit cards, and investment accounts to track spending and you'll also be able to create a budget .

The premium plan includes concierge services, which review your bills and subscriptions to help you cancel or get refunds for these services on your behalf. It also includes premium customer chat, unlimited budgets, customizable budget categories, a savings account, real-time updated syncing, and a credit score report.

The app's standout feature is Bill Negotiation. You'll upload a copy of your bill, and Rocket Money will determine whether you can get the same service with the company for a lower price. Rocket Money may also help you get refunds if you're charged bank overdraft fees or late fees.

When Rocket Money negotiates a bill, you'll have to pay a percentage (you may choose any amount from 30% to 60%) of whatever it will save you for the year. If you plan to change your internet, cable, phone, or wireless provider in the next year, you could end up losing money, though.

Pricing: You may choose how much to pay each month through a sliding scale. Rocket Money has a free plan that's $0. The Premium plan has a 7-day free trial; after the free trial, you'll have to pay around $6 to $12 per month (the lower-price plans are billed annually instead of monthly).

Rocket Money Review

Best for Couples: Honeydue App

Honeydue is a budgeting app designed specifically for couples. The sign-up process is short and simple — you'll create an account by setting up your email, then invite your partner to Honeydue.

Honeydue allows you to see both your individual and shared finances in one place. You also have to option of setting limits to how much your partner can see. When you connect a bank account to the app, you may choose to share both balance and transaction information, share information only, or share no information.

With Honeydue, you can organize your finances by creating monthly bill reminders or discussing personal financial information through the app's chat feature.

If you would like an additional place to store money for a common goal, like a holiday budget or a couple's vacation.

You won't be able to access Honeydue through your computer; it's only available through a mobile app. Some of our other top picks have both online and mobile platforms for more convenience.

Regular Pricing: Free

Best for Saving for Financial Goals: Monarch Money

Monarch Money may be worthwhile if you are looking for a budgeting app that helps you save for financial goals and create a budget. It's also become one of the most hyped-up Mint alternatives among Redditor users since Mint shut down.

Through Monarch Money, you'll be able to make unlimited personalized savings goals . You can customize goals, organize them by order of importance, and link them to bank accounts. The app also helps you create a zero-based budget, track your net worth, and analyze your cash flow.

Monarch Money doesn't have a free plan. You can try out a 7-day free trial. However, after that, you'll need to pay a subscription fee. If you do not want to pay a subscription fee for a budgeting app, you'll want to consider one of our other picks.

Regular Pricing: Premium Plan with a 7-day free-trial, then $14.99 per month or $99.99 annually

Best for Robust Budgeting Features: Quicken Simplifi

Quicken Simplifi might be a good choice if you want a budgeting app that provides a detailed breakdown of your spending and savings.

In addition to letting you create budgets with customizable categories and make individual savings goals, Quicken Simplifi analyzes your spending and savings through charts and data.

You can receive monthly reports for spending, general income, income after expenses, savings, and net worth . You can also now check your credit score through the web application if you have early access (This feature is currently only available to U.S. residents). Checking your credit score through Simplifi won't affect it.

The one major downside to this app is that it doesn't have a free plan. You'll have to pay a subscription fee, although you can try the app for 30 days with a money-back guarantee.

There's also a special promotion available right now — 50% off for new customers (offer ends July 14, 2024).

Regular Pricing: $3.99 monthly subscription or $47.88 annual subscription

Quicken Simplfi Review

Budgeting App Trustworthiness and BBB Ratings

We review the ethics of each company so you can see if a specific financial institution aligns with your values.

We also include the settlement history of the last 3 years so you're aware of any recent public controversies involving the bank.

We include ratings from the Better Business Bureau to evaluate how companies address customer issues and handle transparency.

Rocket Money has a B rating due to a high volume of customer complaints.

Honeydue has an F rating because it hasn't responded to three customer complaints and it hasn't been in operation for a long time.

Quicken has an F rating because it has received a high volume of customer complaints filed, and failed to respond to 13 customer complaints.

A good BBB rating won't guarantee you'll have a good relationship with a company. You also might want to read customer reviews or talk to current customers before making your decision.

Intuit does have some public issues surrounding its tax-filing software, TurboTax.

Introduction to Budgeting Apps

Why use a budgeting app.

A budgeting app can help you understand where you spend your money. It's also useful for building and maintaining an effective budget.

The top budgeting apps let you create a monthly budget using customizable categories.

Many also help you save money effectively . For example, budgeting apps use your transaction history to make charts and graphs. You can use this information to analyze your spending patterns and figure out where to make adjustments in your budget.

Key Benefits of Budgeting Apps

The primary benefit of using a budgeting app is that it gives you a big-picture view of your financial situation.

Many budgeting apps let you link different types of bank accounts, investment accounts, credit cards , and loans. You'll be able to see all your accounts in one place and see how you're spending versus saving.

Budgeting apps also help you build better money habits. If you've struggled to maintain a budget in the past, it might be easier to track your spending on an app than completely on your own. Budgeting apps do the work for you by syncing all your accounts — you just need to make sure everything is synced correctly and make small adjustments when they aren't.

Features to Look for in a Budgeting App

User-friendly interface.

A good budgeting app has a design format that's easy to use. The app should load quickly and make it easy to get started. You should be able to create a budget on your own without much help. If you encounter technical difficulties, you should also easily be able to contact a customer representative through the app.

Syncing with Bank Account

Many easy-to-use budgeting apps for beginners allow you to sync savings accounts, checking accounts , investment accounts, or credit cards.

Apps often use Plaid to link bank accounts. Plaid can connect more than 11,000 U.S. banks and credit unions, including the best banks .

Expense Tracking

Once bank accounts are linked, your spending will be updated on the app so you have up-to-date information. A strong budgeting app will provide updates frequently, and during the same day so you can stay on top of your budget.

Customizable Budgeting Categories

Many budgeting apps allow you to create a zero-balance budget. With a zero-balance budget, you're figuring out where every dollar of your income is going. You can create budget categories for every expense. You can also create savings goals if you're setting aside money for a specific purpose, like a down payment on a home or a future vacation.

A good budgeting app allows you to make customizable budgeting categories rather than pre-set categories. That way, you can make a budget that's tailored to your life and make categories as broad or specific as you want.

Charts and Visual Analysis Features

A top budgeting app analyzes your habits so you can see how you manage your money over time. Some apps provide charts of your monthly budget so you can see how your categories compare to one another. Others might have visuals to indicate how much money you have left to spend in a certain category for that month.

Several budgeting apps also provide reports for broader areas of your finances. For example, you might be able to view your cash flow balance over several months or how your money in your retirement plans has grown over time.

How to Choose the Best Budgeting App for You

To find the right budgeting app, you need to know what features you're looking for. Are you looking for ways to cut back on spending? Do you want a free plan or a subscription plan for your budgeting app? Do you want a detailed breakdown of your finances or more of a general overview? Knowing the answers to these questions can help narrow down your options.

If you have your eye on a few budgeting apps, you can try out the free trials or free versions of each before settling on the right one. That way, you can see if the interface is also user-friendly and manageable for the long-term.

Setting Up and Using a Budgeting App

Step-by-step guide to setting up your budgeting app.

To use a budgeting app, you'll have to download it through the Android or Apple store. To set up most budgeting apps, you'll enter your name and email address. If the app charges a subscription fee, it will prompt you to sign up for a plan or free trial.

The best budgeting apps will walk you through the app's different features and help you get started. You'll typically be prompted to link accounts. Then, you can create a budget or set savings goals.

Tips for Effective Budgeting with the Apps

If you're new to budgeting apps, it may be helpful to start off with some structure.

For example, you could use a popular savings method like the 50/30/20 rule or pay-yourself-first strategy.

The 50/30/20 rule breaks down your budgeting, so 50% goes to needs, 30% goes to wants, and 20% goes to debt or savings. The pay-yourself-first strategy focuses on savings — you'll automatically transfer money from your paycheck to some of your savings and then distribute what's left over to your expenses.

Another tip for effective budgeting is to look at your expenses to see if they reflect your financial goals and values. If you have certain goals that are of higher priority than others, find ways to reduce spending in categories that aren't a priority for you. That might mean waiting before making a purchase, creating a meal plan or grocery list to limit spending on food, or auditing your subscriptions to see if there are any you can cancel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Budgeting Apps

Experts recommend trying out a budgeting app's free plan or free trial before committing to an annual plan.

There are many budgeting apps out there, so you want to try to find the one that best aligns with your financial needs. Testing a few apps can help you decide the best one, and it also keeps you from paying too much for a budgeting app that you won't end up using.

Pros and Cons of Budgeting Apps

Alternatives to budgeting apps, budgeting apps vs. spreadsheet or diy budgeting methods.

You may prefer building a spreadsheet budget if you don't want to link all of your bank accounts or credit cards in a mobile app. However, setting up and maintaining your budget will primarily hinge on how much work you're willing to put into it.

A budgeting app does the tracking for you. With a spreadsheet, you'll have to either start from scratch or use a template. Either way, a budgeting app still offers more comprehensive features.

Budgeting Apps vs. Personal Finance Software

Budgeting apps and personal finance software share the same features. The best option for you will depend on whether you have preferences on the tool's accessibility.

A budgeting app is primarily designed for mobile experiences. Some apps also have an online dashboard which you can access through your computer, but it is always something that's offered.

Meanwhile, personal finance software is designed for computer access. You'll either download the software to a desktop or use an online platform. Some will also have apps, but some features might not be available.

Budgeting Apps vs. Savings Accounts with Goals Features

Some of the best online banks have added unique features to their savings accounts to help customers with goal-setting.

If you're specifically looking for a way to save for goals, it may benefit you to get a savings account with buckets . Buckets are customizable tools that separate your savings so you can save for specific goals. Since they are an integrated bank account feature, they also might be easier to manage than a budgeting app.

If you would rather have more robust budgeting tools, a budgeting app will likely still stand out to you. Budgeting apps also connect investment accounts, credit cards, and loans, so you'll be able to see everything in one place.

Budgeting App FAQs

A budgeting app is beneficial for tracking expenses and sticking to a budget. It can also help you save for financial goals and prevent lifestyle creep .

To choose the best budgeting app for your needs, consider what your financial goals are and how a budgeting app can best help you achieve them. If you need help cutting back on expenses, you might consider a budgeting app with bill negotiation features. If you need help with savings, you might prioritize an app that helps with goal-setting features.

Most budgeting apps have encryption to store data, making them secure to use if you're linking your accounts. To keep your username and password safe, budgeting apps might also have multi-factor authentication so they can verify your identity when you're logging in.

A budgeting app can help you understand your financial situation so you can create a budget that saves you money over time. These apps can help you find areas where you can reduce your spending. Some also offer a bill negotiation feature so you can see if you can save money on subscriptions.

Yes, there are free budgeting apps available in the Apple and Android stores, though they typically have more limited features than apps with paid subscriptions. The best free budgeting app is Honeydue, which is specifically for couples.

Mint shut down in March 2024. You'll have to switch to Credit Karma if you want to continue using an Intuit personal finance platform, or you can switch to an alternative budgeting app.

In most cases, the best budgeting app for beginners will be one that makes budgeting easy — this means it has an easy-to-use interface and links to your accounts, so you don't have to enter every transaction manually. It can also be good to have an app that teaches you about money.

Rocket Money is our best budgeting app overall, and it has a free plan. If you're in a couple, our top pick is Honeydue which is also free to download.

Why You Should Trust Us: Experts' Advice on the Best Budgeting Apps

We consulted banking and financial planning experts to inform these picks and provide their advice on finding the budgeting app for your needs.

• Sophia Acevedo, banking editor, Business Insider
• Mykail James, MBA, certified financial education instructor, BoujieBudgets.com

Here's what they had to say about budgeting apps. (Some text may be lightly edited for clarity.)

What should I look for in a budgeting app?

Mykail James, MBA, certified financial education instructor, BoujieBudgets.com :

"My best tip for people who are looking to start using a budgeting app is to figure out what you're missing in your financial system. For example, if you are a person who knows that you want to stick to a zero-based budget, and you've been doing that manually, but you need maybe a little bit more help with the organization, then you can center your focus on searching for apps specifically solve your problem."

Sophia Acevedo, banking editor, Business Insider :

"I would look for features that would help me with my goals. Like if I'm trying to curb spending, I would look for a budgeting app that helps me minimize payments in certain spending areas."

How do I know if a budgeting app is right for me?

Mykail James, MBA, CFEI:

"Give it time. Every budgeting app is going to feel uncomfortable during the first month. Give it at least three months before deciding if it's not something for you. Actively try and use it before considering a switch."

Sophia Acevedo, CEPF:

"I would first try out the free version and see how it works. Some budgeting apps are entirely free, while others have different plans or trials at a variety of price points."

Methodology: How Did We Choose the Best Budgeting Apps?

At Business Insider, we aim to help smart people make the best decisions with their money. We understand that "best" is often subjective, so in addition to highlighting the clear benefits of a financial product, we outline the limitations, too.

First, we compiled a list of 18 popular budgeting apps available in both the Google Play Store and Apple Store.

Then, we reviewed each budgeting app for a week. To determine our top picks, we reviewed the initial sign-up process, pricing, budgeting tools, and user experience. We also considered whether each app accomplished everything it advertised, and how regular users reviewed the product on the Apple and Google Play store.

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Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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