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

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.

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.

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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• Gifts for grown-ups

The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

By Samantha Schoech

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

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

Bluetooth connection

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

Buying Options

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

Anywhere outlet

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

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

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.

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

Arrive refreshed

Peace Out Puffy Eyes

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

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

Safe drinking water

LifeStraw Go Series

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

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

Plane entertainment

Nanoblock Birds Rosella Collection Series Building Kit

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

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

Power on the go

TravelCard Plus

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

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

An unmissable luggage tag

Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag

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

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

Premier toiletry transport

State Bags Bensen Toiletry Kit

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

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

Small servings

Cadence Capsules

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

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

Organized packing

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

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

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

Safety socks

SockWell Men’s Lifestyle Firm Compression Socks

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

SockWell Women’s Lifestyle Firm Compression Socks

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

A hands-free journey

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

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

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

A cozy cardigan

White+Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan

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

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

Colorful little notebooks

Pantone 10 Notebooks

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

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

Armchair travel to Japan

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

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

A window out into the world

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

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

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

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

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

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

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

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

Tiny white noise machine

Yogasleep Travel Mini Sound Machine

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

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

A game about the birth (and death) of words

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

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

Travel posters with classic appeal

Anderson Design Group World Travel Posters

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

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

Cutlery to go

Hydro Flask Flatware Set

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

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

A pretty passport cover

Tusk Siam Passport Cover

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

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

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

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

Meet your guide

Samantha Schoech

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

Mentioned above

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

Further reading

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

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 Travel Strollers

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

The Best Underwear for Travel

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

The Best Travel Mug

After testing travel mugs for more than 10 years, we’re still confident that the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug is the best mug to keep drinks hot for hours.

71 Best Travel Gifts for Every Budget and Type of Traveler

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

A comprehensive guide to the best gifts for travelers, written by a world traveler.

Every year, my mom asks me, “what do you want for your birthday?” She asks, knowing that I’m a frequent traveler and live most of my life out of a backpack or suitcase, hopping from plane to train, traveling from country to country.

Travelers tend to value experiences more than material items (e.g. ziplining in Costa Rica or eating gelato in Italy).

However, most of us can’t afford to buy our best friend a full vacation, which is why I put together this list of the best gifts that travelers will actually use. 

Finding the perfect gift for the traveler in your life is about balancing usability with meaning. It’s ideal to give something that won’t weigh a traveler down or be forgotten about in a closet at home. 

Gifts for travelers should be fun and special but also practical for a more nomadic lifestyle. 

My rule of thumb when buying gifts for travelers is to find something that makes them feel free. Encouraging freedom means giving gifts that are lightweight, increase efficiency, or give that little push to help someone live their travel dreams.

Travel gifts also need to be durable, dependable, and make it through airport security.

This gift list will help you find the best travel gifts for friends, family, colleagues, or partners who love traveling.

Table of Contents

Best Stocking Stuffer Travel Gifts

Wild socks by crazy dog t-shirts.

My favorite gift for travelers who have a sense of humor is fun socks. These aren’t your grandma’s socks, though. 

Crazy Dog socks come in vibrant colors and with silly prints ranging from bananas to awesome opossums. 

My adult friends always laugh when they receive socks with funny sayings like “Swearing helps” or “Give no f*cks.”

Travel Cutlery Set

Last year, my best friend got me a backpacking spork, and I have gotten so much use out of this perfect stocking stuffer. 

It’s something that I can appreciate while eating lunch at work or while eating a parfait at the airport.

Carrying a set of reusable cutlery in carry-on bags also helps travelers cut back on single-use plastics.

You can even personalize this Etsy set with your friend’s name.

Self-Care Face Mask

If you’re looking for gifts travelers will love, remember the importance of pampering. 

My favorite thing to do after returning home from a long trip is to relax in an Epsom salt bath with a face mask and candles. 

The benefit of face masks over mud masks is that they hardly add any weight to a bag and can pass through airport security if your traveling loved one wants to relax in a hotel room.

Soap Leaves

More times than not, the restroom at a park or trailhead doesn’t have a handwashing station—or they do, but it’s missing soap. 

Whether your loved one is road tripping across their home state or flying across the world, carrying soap leaves in a travel bag or purse gives them the basic luxury of washing their hands whenever and wherever. 

This is especially relevant for reducing the spread of diseases while traveling. Plus, these make a great stocking stuffer!

CHECK PRICE ON:

Laundry Detergent Leaves

While we’re on the subject of soap, let’s talk about laundry. 

For the love of good-smelling clothes, it doesn’t hurt to get your traveling friend a pack of pocket-sized dry laundry detergent leaves. 

Sea to Summit detergent is biodegradable and phosphate free. They won’t push the weight limit for backpackers, and they’re less messy than traditional detergents.

Massage Ball

Drop one of these golfball-sized fellas into someone’s stocking, and you won’t have to rub their feet after a long day at Disneyland . 

This ball is made of solid rubber. It’s gentle on tender spots and strong enough to work deep knots.

Best Travel Gift Ideas Under $50

Sleep mask & ear plugs.

Sleep is always crucial, no matter if your loved one travels for fun or goes away for business travel.

Give frequent travelers the gift of improved sleep. Over the years, I’ve used complimentary in-flight eye masks, but they lay flat on my eyelashes and often let light in from the corners. 

The Alaska Bear eye mask is soft and contoured for eye comfort without light leaks. It comes with a carrying pouch and earplugs.

Waterproof Phone Pouch

If the traveler in your life is taking off on a beach vacation or plays water sports, give them a waterproof pouch for their phone. 

This pouch not only protects from accidents, but it can take underwater pictures too. The Pelican phone pouch also floats, setting it apart from cheaper comparisons.

Travel Charm Keyring

Personalized keyrings are fun travel gifts, especially if you’re looking to get something inexpensive for a big group of travel friends.

Travel Size Watercolor Palette

The Winsor and Newton Cotman pocket watercolor palette changed the way I paint. 

Usually, I leave my art supplies at home because they’re too bulky, but with this mini palette, I can drop it into my carry-on luggage and paint anywhere.

The palette is about the size of a large cell phone, and the travel paintbrush has an internal water compartment. It all folds down into a convenient carrying case. 

This is the convenience gift of the century for traveling artists.

Microfiber Travel Towel

At first, I was skeptical about trying a microfiber travel towel because I don’t like the clingy feeling of microfiber cleaning cloths. But these travel towels are not clingy! 

I’ve had no issues with sand, dirt, pine needles, and general crud sticking to my towel.

Gift your beach babe, Parisian hostel hopping, or gym rat loved one a lightweight, quick-drying towel.

Bar Shampoo and Conditioner

Alright, it’s time to get down to business: who here has been stopped at TSA for packing too many liquids in your luggage? 

Pouring shampoo and conditioner into tiny travel bottles that always leak is a thing of the past. /liv/ Nature shampoo and conditioner bars actually work and come in TSA-friendly tins. 

Not only does this gift make packing easier, but it’s also more environmentally friendly than those tiny single-use plastic shampoo bottles in hotels.

Travel Journal

Self-discovery and storytelling are quintessential aspects of traveling. The best gifts for travelers keep this in mind.

Every traveler needs a trusted journal where they can jot down thoughts, brainstorm future travels, and vent about the monkey who stole their phone.

I received my first Zequenz Classic 360 notebook as a present, and after it was full, I purchased a new one. 

As a traveling writer and artist, I love this journal because it can be rolled up to fit in a purse or lay open without the pages turning on their own. 

While I prefer blank paper, this journal style also comes with grid paper or ruled paper.

Cell Phone Camera Clip-On Lens

I first learned about lenses for phone cameras from a photography professor whose son switched to phone photography. 

There are three clip-on lenses for 15x macro, 180° fisheye, and 0.6x wide angle. For context, my Google Pixel 6 has a 20x macro and 0.7 wide angle function built into the camera, but it doesn’t have a fisheye setting.

This kit is best suited for someone who wants to upgrade their phone camera without dropping a thousand dollars on the newest phone.

Best Travel Gifts Ideas under $100

Polaroid camera.

Polaroid cameras are no longer a thing of the past! 

Travel lovers of all ages can print pictures on the go with the Fujifilm Instax Mini. I have a friend who documents her travels with one special polaroid picture per day.

Camera Strap

Interested in travel gifts for a photographer? Add a pop of color and personality to a loved one’s camera with a vintage camera strap.

Camera Cleaning Kit

Camera cleaning kits are another piece of camera gear that your photographer friend will use time and time again.

Travel Hotel Sheet or Sleeping Bag Liner

Travel hotel sheets and sleeping bag liners are essentially thin sleeping bags made out of bed sheets.

If you know someone who sleeps in hotels often, a travel sheet offers extra protection from whatever lingering germs in their hotel room would light up under ultraviolet light. Yuck.

For your loved ones who prefer camping, hotel sheets or liners protect the inside of their sleeping bag from dirty feet and stinky armpits after a long day of hiking.

BeFree Water Filter Bottle

BeFree filter bottle carries one liter of water, the same as a trusty old Nalgene water bottle. 

It’s BPA-free, collapsible, easy to pack, and can help your friend avoid water-borne illnesses while traveling.

Exercise Resistance Bands

Resistance bands are a lightweight gym on the go. Most travelers I’ve met have trouble maintaining an exercise regimen while traveling long-term. 

A set of non-slip resistance bands and a foldable yoga mat will keep the traveler in your life fit and toned on their next big trip.

Best Travel Gift Ideas for Her

Hidden pocket infinity scarf.

Seriously, why are scarf pockets not more common? The patterns on these infinity scarves are so much fun, and now I don’t have to hide things in my bra.

Pacsafe RFID Cross Body Bag or Travel Purse

Before learning about PacSafe, I used a system of safety pins to “secure” the zipper on my purse while traveling. This year I learned about the anti-theft security zippers on PacSafe bags, and I’m hooked.

I like this Pacsafe purse in particular because it expands to just the right size for carrying a journal or a book.

Looking for more anti-theft bags? Read our guide to the best travel purses .

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

If the outdoorsy traveler in your life is always cold, consider buying her a Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket. 

This puffer has 60g of PrimaLoft recycled insulation and a recycled polyester shell. 

She can cram it into an already bulging backpack, fold it into the compression pouch, and use it as a travel pillow on the plane.

SHOP WOMEN’S:

SHOP MEN’S:

Travel Pants

Whether the traveler in your life is hanging out on the beach or dressing up for a night out, these pants will be at the top of her packing list .

The Brooklyn Ankle cut fit the classic style of many European countries with the comfort of leggings and light material for summer travels.

These are my favorite travel pants because they are easy to pair with any shirt and can be dressed or down. Versatility is key when it comes to travel.

VIVAIA Shoes

VIVAIA shoes are made of recycled plastic water bottles and hold up to daily wear at the beach or walking through cobblestone streets. 

If you know your friend’s shoe size, this can be a great gift for the traveler who still likes to look nice while traveling.

Read our detailed review of VIVAIA shoes and compare them with Tieks , Rothy’s , Birdies , and Allbirds .

Best Travel Gift Ideas for Him

Cocktail mix kit.

Alright, this is one of the best travel gifts for dads, hubbies, and swanky people who like to mix their own drinks. 

Each box contains the dry ingredients and mixing tools for making cocktails, meaning they can pass through airport security. 

Make sure the gift recipient knows that they will have to procure the alcohol and tonic from a flight attendant or bring it to the campsite. 

The Cocktail Box Co has several different recipe boxes, so you can give several to the same person or buy them as individual gifts for different friends.

This mini razor and leather pouch is a classy gift for family members who love to travel.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

If the man in your life doesn’t have a leather toiletry bag, gift him the KomalC hanging travel kit.

This buffalo leather shave kit has a surprising amount of storage space. It can be hung next to the bathroom sink to avoid pooling water and dirty countertops. 

By unfolding it, your giftee can see everything and is less likely to lose small items at the bottom of the bag.

Travel Security Money Belt

Money belts are an excellent alternative to fanny packs and purses. The Jasgood money belt has an anti-theft pocket for hiding cash from pickpockets at densely packed tourist destinations.

Another practical present for the outdoorsy traveler in your life is a waterproof headlamp. 

Hands-free headlamps are more versatile than flashlights and won’t drain phone battery, which is important on long trips. 

While traveling in Costa Rica, I used my headlamp for a nighttime hot springs tour. It was perfect until I dropped it in the water, which is why I now recommend going for the Ghost Bird Seiker waterproof headlamp.

As a bonus, one percent of Ghost Bird profits goes to the World Owl Trust .

Looking for more outdoorsy gifts? Read our guides to the best gifts for outdoorsy women , the best gifts for hikers , and the best gifts for campers .

Best Travel Gift Ideas for Couples

Airbnb gift cards.

Send your favorite couple on vacation by paying for their accommodation away from home. Airbnbs are all over the world and range from luxurious to rustic. 

Maybe the travel duo already has their accommodation covered—no problem! Airbnb users can book experiences like cooking classes and kayaking tours as well.

Travel Challenges Card Game

Are your friends adventure travelers? Pick up a deck of Couples Edition adventure traveler cards. 

Each card has instructions for travel challenges tailored toward meeting locals, exploring the city, and creating unique memories.

Ticket Stub Organizer

I don’t know about your friends, but mine have old concert ticket stubs, movie tickets, and boarding passes coming out of their ears. 

Just the Ticket is like a hybrid scrapbook—trading card organizer. Each ticket has its own slot and a few lines to write memories. 

If you want to make an extra special gift for your partner, surprise them with tickets for an upcoming travel experience or show.

Travel Snacks

One of my favorite gifts from a sorority sister in college was an assortment of dried mandarin and mango slices and an artisan hot chocolate mix. 

The dried fruit went straight into my travel backpack for my next trip through airport security. 

Other easy-to-pack travel treats include nuts and candies. Bonus points if you find your friend a snack with sentimental value.

Best Gifts for Someone Traveling Abroad

Universal outlet adaptor.

When a friend goes abroad for the first time, I casually ask if they have an outlet adaptor. 

This is one of those lightweight gifts to take abroad that won’t add unnecessary clutter to their suitcase. Outlet adaptors are easy to forget about but essential.

Passport Holder

The second question that I ask when a friend travels abroad for the first time is, “do you have a passport holder?”

My sister bought me a passport holder before my first study abroad trip to India. It was a meaningful gift that I still take with me around the world.

Plus, the RFID-safe material blocks potential thieves from scanning the cards inside.

Eurail Global Pass

If you know someone planning a trip to Europe, consider gifting them a Eurail Global Pass. 

Eurail passes are essentially an open-ended train ticket. The pass-holder can hop on and off of trains across Europe over a predetermined period of time. 

Eurail isn’t the cheapest option for booking train tickets, but it’s the easiest.

A traveler with a Eurail pass can book a last-minute seat or miss their train and catch the next one. It’s essentially a priority pass to the European rail system.

This is what I would buy my graduating senior who is backpacking across Europe.

Scratch Off Map

Every traveler needs this scratch-off map to showcase where they’ve been and discover where they’ll go next. 

If you’re looking for slightly less practical travel-themed gifts, maps are easy-to-hang dorm decor and interesting backgrounds for Zoom meetings. 

Also, scratch-off maps don’t require push pins, making them safer for small kids and less destructive to walls if the giftee lives in an apartment.

Read our guide to the best US national park scratch-off maps .

PacSafe Camera Bag: Anti-Theft Daypack

For someone able to fork out the money for high-quality photography travel gear, check out the PacSafe CamSafe X25 pack. This backpack is worth every penny.

My favorite part is the anti-theft zippers that latch together and can be locked for extra security while walking in crowded touristy areas. 

The front of the bag and the straps are constructed with slash-resistant material. Inside is an RFID-safe pocket to protect from unwanted credit card scanning, and the bottom half of the bag opens separately for equipment-only access. 

It also has a water bottle pocket, extra padding, hip and sternum straps, and a rain cover.

For more backpack recommendations, read my article on the best EDC backpacks .

Thin Fanny Pack

Venture’s slim pouch is large enough to carry a phone, money, keys, and passport but thin enough to conceal it under a t-shirt, button-down, or skirt before letting loose at the dance club.

Fashion tip: this year, many of my European friends are wearing their fanny packs as a crossbody bag (from shoulder to hip instead of around their waist) during the day.

Is your friend more outdoorsy? Read our guide to the best hiking fanny packs .

Best Gifts for Someone Who Travels a lot for Work

Packing cubes.

Packing cubes are a hot item among travelers right now because they help keep things organized and reduce wrinkles. 

I use packing cubes to compress my clothes while backpacking and replace the need for a laundry bag.

My friend backpacked in Malaysia last month and got caught in a rainstorm that soaked through her outer bag, which is why I recommend the waterproof Veken set. 

I don’t know why it took so long for packing cubes to become a mainstream item, but your traveling friends and family will thank you for this time-saving gift.

We tested the best packing cubes on the market and assembled a guide to choosing your best fit. Read about our eight favorite packing cube brands .

Laptop Sleeve

A simple leather laptop sleeve makes an elegant graduation gift for your favorite traveler. 

With this Allinside laptop sleeve, you’ll help them feel and look professional at business meetings around the world.

Lumbar Support Cushion

If your parents complain of lower back pain while traveling, save their asses—or rather, their backs—with a lumbar support cushion.

Folding Yoga Mat

One of the trickiest things about frequent travel is maintaining an exercise and mindfulness routine. 

Traditional yoga mats are difficult to travel with, and no one wants to touch hotel floors. 

The Gaiam folding yoga mat doesn’t have much cushion, but it does have the grip necessary for downward dog. Plus, it folds up to the size of a small laptop for frequent travelers.

Mini Travel Steamer

A mini steamer is one of those gifts for travelers who need to pack light but still want to look their best in business meetings. Steamers remove wrinkles and even some stains.

Travel Backpacking Pack

Speak to your budget backpacker friend’s heart with a new backpack.

For a beginner traveler, I recommend the Coofay XL backpack .

The Coofay has all of the essentials, like compression straps, zipper pockets, and even a shoe compartment. It doesn’t have a hip belt, but it does have a sternum strap.

If your loved one is ready for an upgrade, I suggest investing in the Osprey Fairview or Farpoint packs (women’s and men’s versions).

These Osprey backpacks are pricier, but they’ll last for years and years to come.

The 40L versions of the Fairview and Farpoint have external stuff pockets, a 16-inch laptop pocket, and hip belt pockets.

Hip belts are super important once someone’s getting serious about traveling because they take a lot of weight off of the shoulders on longer trips.

These Osprey bags are also water-resistant, and the backpack straps stow away.

Looking for more backpack options for an outdoorsy traveler? Read our guide to the best travel backpacks and hiking backpacks for women .

SHOP FAIRVIEW WOMEN’S:

SHOP FARPOINT MEN’S:

Best Travel Accessory Gifts

Travel blanket.

You know that friend whose couch is hidden under a pile of blankets? 

The Pavilia travel blanket is my favorite travel gift idea. It’s fuzzy like the blankets back home but compresses into a pillow the size of a standard airplane tray table.

Travel Neck Pillow

What I love most about this travel neck pillow is its adjustable shape. 

This is the perfect travel gift for anyone who wants to avoid falling asleep on their seatmate’s shoulder—I am, of course, not speaking from experience *cough, cough*.

Compression Socks

Searching for the best gift ideas for parents and grandparents? Compression socks promote blood flow from the feet upward to reduce swelling after long flights.

Suitcase and Shoe Deodorizers

You know that friend with the stinky feet? Kindly Amazon this gift to their doorstep.

But seriously, Marsheepy deodorizer bags use charcoal and bamboo to absorb and eliminate odors. They work in shoes, backpacks, suitcases, even cars, and around the house. 

Simply recharge the deodorizers in the sun once a month, and they will last for about two years. 

The best part is that once your friend is done with them, the contents are compostable.

First Aid Kit

I am definitely that mom friend who gives first aid kits as holiday gifts. This ultralight medical kit weighs only 0.5 oz, making it an easy safety accessory to toss into any suitcase or backpack. 

If you like going the extra mile, I always add Benadryl and menstruation pads (highly absorbent for serious wounds and surprise periods) before wrapping this gift. 

Best Travel Gadgets & Tech Gifts

Noise canceling headphones.

Using advanced noise canceling technology, Bose makes it possible for your favorite world travelers to sleep on the plane despite crying babies.

Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Good sound quality is worth investing in. The JBL Flip 4 isn’t cheap, but it will survive accidental lake dives—oops—and it has a battery life of 12 hours. 

Tech Accessories Organization Bag

Having a dedicated bag for organizing tech accessories makes all the difference when traveling with videography and photography equipment. 

Portable Charger

Portable chargers are travel essentials. If your favorite traveler doesn’t have a portable charger, give them one this holiday season. 

I like the INIU power bank because it’s small enough to carry in a purse, and it can charge multiple phones before needing to be recharged. 

INIU has two USB ports and one USB C port, compatible with new smartphones. 

Laptop Stand

The MOFT Invisible Laptop stand is a cool travel gift for digital nomads and business travelers. 

Raising the laptop closer to eye level prevents remote workers from staring down all day, thus reducing neck pain. 

Unlike bulky laptop stands that are intended for home offices, MOFT’s invisible stand adheres to the bottom of any size laptop, weighs 3oz, and folds down to 1/9” in width. 

I prefer this laptop stand as a travel gift because it takes up minimal space in a carry-on bag and can be set up on a tray table for watching movies. 

Luggage Scale

Have you ever been charged a hefty fee for an overweight bag? Trust me, it stings. But it’s not like you can stuff a whole bathroom scale in your suitcase when you’re traveling abroad. 

This convenient luggage scale is pocket-sized and super lightweight, so travelers can take it anywhere and always know when their bag is too heavy–before getting gouged at the check-in counter. 

Best Luxury Travel Gifts

Swiss gear carry-on suitcase.

I recommend Swiss Gear for luxury suitcases. My favorite is the soft 21” expandable carry-on roller because it meets the dimension requirements for most major international airlines. 

Looking for more luggage options? Read our guides to the best wheeled backpacks the best hardside luggage sets , Beis Luggage, and Pakt One Luggage .

Airport Lounge Access

Offer to upgrade a loved one’s plane ticket or share your airline points for access to airport lounges. 

I am obsessed with this luxury experience, and it would be the ultimate surprise for a budget backpacker.

To arrange access to airport lounges, you’ll have to know which airlines the giftee plans to fly through. 

Upgrading tickets for lounge access can be expensive, so be prepared to pay big money for this luxury present.

Yeti Travel Mug

Looking for a great gift for traveling coffee addicts? Encourage sustainability and style with a double-wall insulated Yeti travel mug. 

Yeti fits in cupholders, and double wall insulation keeps drinks cold or hot.

Foot Hammock

Another way to boost frequent flyer comfort for your short friends is with a foot hammock that attaches to the seat back. The sleepy ride hammock is 7 oz and buckles to the seatback. 

Best Unique Travel Gifts

Necklace with photo projection.

Custom photo projection necklaces are an excellent gift for moms (including dog moms) who miss their families while racking up frequent flyer points. 

Unlike lockets, these necklaces are discrete, and no one will know that she has a secret picture unless she shows them. 

Monogrammed Duffel Bag

Personalized or monogrammed items are a fun gift to remind travelers that their friends and family back home are thinking of them.

It also helps distinguish their bag on the luggage carousel. 

Looking for more duffel bag options? Read our guide to the best waterproof duffel bags . 

Personalized Leather Luggage Tag

Leather luggage tags are an inexpensive but unique gift for frequent travelers. Leather looks better and is more reliable than those pesky paper tags that crinkle, fade, and fall off. 

With this personalized luggage tag, your traveling loved one will be able to spot their stuff at baggage claim instantly. 

International Snack Subscription Box

Universal Yums sends tasty international treats in a monthly subscription box. 

Grandkids can taste snacks from around the world, and college students can have international travel-themed movie nights.

In a pandemic-stricken world, it can be difficult to find gifts for people who like to travel but are still stuck at home. Now they can get their international travel “fix” delivered right to their door. 

ID and Medical Bracelet

On the topic of safety, I wear a medical bracelet while traveling or hiking in the backcountry. ID bracelets are personal items, best for gifting to family members. 

Medical bracelets usually don’t make the “Best Travel Accessories” list. However, they can save lives by providing first responders with the wearer’s name, date of birth, emergency contact information, current medications, and blood type.

For someone traveling outside of their home country, be sure to include the correct international country code in front of their emergency contact’s phone number.

Best Travel Books to Give as Gifts

Kindle (e-reader).

Kindles are one of the best travel gift ideas for saving bookworms from the heartache of choosing which book to pack. With 16GB of storage, they can now pack their whole library.

Make this the absolute best gift by pre-downloading one of the following titles.

The Best American Travel Writing Series

Inspire future trips with an anthology of the best international travel essays by American authors. 

This is the perfect gift for long-haul flights, bedtime dreaming, and displaying as a coffee table book. 

I’m currently learning about Siberian history and culture through an intriguing essay in the 2010 edition. 

The Island of Sea Women: A Novel

The Island of Sea Women is an epic feminine multigenerational tale about two best friends growing up in the 20th century on Jeju. 

Jeju is a Korean island where women traditionally support their families by free diving to unfathomable depths. 

As the girls become women, their friendship is strained by Japanese colonialism, wars, familial disputes, and shifting traditions. 

What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding

Kristin Newman’s travel memoir is the best gift for Eat, Pray, Love groupies. 

Like Gilbert, Newman is a comedic, reflective, kickass solo traveling woman who will make your friend want to board a plane tomorrow.

The Lonely Planet Travel Guides

Lonely Planet travel guides make perfect gifts for someone who likes to study up on travel destinations ahead of time. They make an excellent coffee table book for travelers while they’re (briefly) at home.

You can choose from hundreds of travel guides that provide information on lodging, transportation, culture, and cuisine based on location and type of travel.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jodelle Marx

From homemade to luxury, Jodelle’s always scheming about the next best gifts. She even started printing her own stationery to easily brighten a friend’s day with small doses of art. Jodelle’s a sucker for surprises and loves assembling intricate care packages. She starts planning Christmas gifts months in advance so that when the holidays roll around, she’s an expert at gift-giving.

Looking for more gift ideas for your loved ones? Check out our related articles below!

Best Road Trip Gifts

Best Gifts for RV Owners

Best Van Life Gifts

Best National Park Gifts

Best California Gift Ideas

Best Christmas Gifts for Parents

Best White Elephant Gifts Under $20

Best Travel Shoes for Women

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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• Travel Products

The 29 Best Personalized Travel Gifts

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

In This Article

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure

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

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

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

Shinola Jewelry Traveler

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

Away The Bigger Carry-on Flex

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

Ipsy Beauty Subscription Service

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

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

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

Valerie Constance iPad Series Keyboard Case Pale Pink

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

Uncommon Goods Personalized Ornament

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

Cadence Build Your Flex System

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

Mark & Graham Single Travel Jewelry Watch Roll

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

Papier Constellation Foiled Travel Journal

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

Weddingstar Custom Engraved Compact Mirror

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

Milk Books Milk Premium Photo Books

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

Skylight The Skylight Frame

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

Katie Kime New York Toile Pajama Pants Set

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

The Ruff Times Custom Location Water Color Painting

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

Tidbyt LED Display

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

Mark & Graham Nomad Rugged Case for Airpods

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

Pegai Toiletry Bag for Men

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

Monica Vinader Locket Pendant

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

Cuyana Travel Beauty Roll

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

Paravel Packing Cube Quad

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

Olfactory NYC Pick Your Core Scent

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

Uncommon Goods Personalized Engraved Compass

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

Yeti Rambler 18-ounce Water Bottle

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

Prose Boar Bristle Brush

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

Courant Single-device Charging Tray

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

Artifact Uprising Everyday Photo Puzzle

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

Leatherology Kessler Medium Duffle

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

Lingua Franca Initials Eyemask

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

Monos Alphabet Stickers

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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