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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, there’s 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 in-flight movie with freebie airline earbuds is an exercise in missed dialogue and muffled music. This little gadget allows travelers to connect their own Bluetooth headphones or earbuds to the plane’s audio system with a standard jack. It 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 models our audio team tested , there can be some audio lag. While it’s not exactly a flashy gift, it will make travel more pleasant.

Anywhere outlet

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

With four plugs that will work in 150 countries, plus 4 USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port, and an AC socket, this adapter is the best all-around choice for anyone traveling out of the country.

If your sojourning friend travels internationally, they’re going to need a reliable plug adapter. The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which covers the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter tested by our travel team , and 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 Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set contains five different plugs, plus offers sold-separately add-ons for countries like Brazil , India , Israel , or 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 personal item small enough to stow under the seat in front of you and 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 The Everywhere Bag , made of water- and abrasion-resistant nylon, is our pick . It has a removable shoulder strap and a sleeve for slipping over the handles of a carry-on suitcase . Inside there’s 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 even 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 5-1/4" x 8-1/4" 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 paints also comes with a self-cleaning water brush and a fine-tipped 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. This 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 like Caran D’Ache Gouche Studio Set , which have a satisfying opacity and don’t require the patience, foresight, or skill of watercolors. Of course, some prefer the abstract flow of watercolors, in which case the Kuretake Gansai Portable Watercolor Set would be 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.

With store pickup or REI membership (limited patterns)

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 far and few 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 only weighs 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 dogeared 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 with utterly unique ways to explore a new place. Serge Gainsbourg’s Paris won’t provide the entrance fee to the Louvre, but the gorgeous, 16 x 27-inch fold-out map, packaged in a printed cardstock case with a Gainsbourg cocktail napkin, will lead you to Studio Ferber where the multi-talented musician, actor, and director recorded the soundtrack to the hit movie Tenue de Soirée in 1986, or the L’Hôtel Meurice where Serge often visited Salvador Dali. There are also guides for John le Carre’s London ; The World of Patricia Highsmith , which touches on locations in the U.S., 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 they found it difficult to stay cool and comfortable on the go. New York City’s own heat wave prompted associate 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. There’s one large button on the front right, making 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.

With delayed shipping

You save $20 (20%)

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

Arrive refreshed

Peace Out Puffy Eyes

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

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

Safe drinking water

LifeStraw Go Series

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

(limited colors)

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. They also make 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 3,000 mAh rated capacity. 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 petite TravelCard Plus which also happens to be the smallest, lightest model we tested . But there’s more to love than just its pocket 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-5½-inch soft-cover 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 like Copenhagen, Prague, and Manila. Some of the window scenes are tranquil, others are not, but all suggest 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 of 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 Chevlan contributed reporting. This article was edited by Hannah Morrill and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guide

Samantha Schoech

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

Mentioned above

• Looking for a way to connect your wireless headphones to a source that lacks Bluetooth? Use a Bluetooth transmitter like 1Mii’s ML300 or B03. The Best Bluetooth Transmitters for Home and Portable Use  
• We tested over a dozen travel plug adapters to find the best to bring on a trip overseas. Nothing can cover you everywhere, but check out these four good options. The Best Travel Plug Adapter  
• There’s more to a great in-flight personal item than being small enough to stuff under a plane seat. Here’s how to choose the right one for your travel needs. The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags  
• After 10 years of airport dashes and overhead-compartment stashes, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is still the suitcase we want to carry. The Best Carry-On Luggage  
• We spent 60 hours testing travel packable towels and we are convinced these are the best options for drying off. The Best Packable Travel Towels  
• These reading lights are bright and adjustable, so you can keep reading even if you share a bed with a light sleeper. The Best Reading Light  

Further reading

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

by Christine Ryan

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

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

by Haley Perry

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

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

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

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

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

The 50 Best Gifts for Travelers, According to Travel Experts

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

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

Courtesy of Glerups

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

Travel tech and accessories

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

Courtesy of Purist

1. Purist 10-Oz. Maker Mug

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

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

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

Courtesy of Nori

2. The Nori Press Steam Iron

Buy now: $120, nori.com

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

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

Courtesy of Twelve South

3. Twelve South AirFly Pro

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

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

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

Courtesy of Trtl

4. Trtl Travel Pillow

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

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

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

Courtesy of Yeti

5. Yeti Rambler Straw Mug

Buy now: from $38, yeti.com

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

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

Courtesy of Cincha

6. Cincha Travel Belt Bag

Buy now: $60, cinchatravel.com

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

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

Courtesy of SleepPhones

7. SleepPhones Bluetooth Sleep Headphones

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

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

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

Courtesy of Therabody

8. Therabody Theragun Mini

Buy now: $199, therabody.com

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

Packing essentials

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

Courtesy of Thule

9. Thule Compression Packing Cubes

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

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

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

Courtesy of Baggu

10. Baggu Go Pouch Set

Buy now: $40, baggu.com

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

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

Photo by Bailey Rebecca Roberts

11. Ries Essential Travel Bottles

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

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

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

Courtesy of Paravel

12. Paravel Cabana See-All Vanity Case

Buy now: $95, tourparavel.com

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

Tangled necklaces are now a thing of the past.

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

13. Dagne Dover Frankie Jewelry Case

Buy now: from $55, dagnedover.com

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

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

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

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

Buy now: $25, eaglecreek.com

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

>> Find more clever travel gift ideas under $100

Travel bags and luggage

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

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

15. Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Convertible Bag

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

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

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

Courtesy of North End Bags

16. North End Bag Company Virginia Beach Tote

Buy now: $185, northendbagcompany.com

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

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

17. Paravel Fold-Up Bag

Buy now: $75, tourparavel.com

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

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

Courtesy of Peak Design

18. Peak Design Everyday Totepack

Buy now: $180, peakdesign.com

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

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

Courtesy of Matador

19. Matador Freefly16 Packable Backpack

Buy now: $80, matadorup.com

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

A leather weekender that will last for years to come.

Courtesy of Leatherology

20. Leatherology Harwood Weekender

Buy now: $375, leatherology.com

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

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

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

21. Longchamp x Robert Indiana Travel Bag

Buy now: $430, longchamp.com

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

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

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

22. Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller Bag

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

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

July’s suitcase colors are anything but basic.

Courtesy of July

23. July Personalized Luggage

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

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

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

Courtesy of Roverlund

24. Roverlund Out-of-Office Pet Carrier

Buy now: from $159, roverlund.com

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

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

Courtesy of Brouk & Co

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

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

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

Travel toiletries and skincare

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

Courtesy of Blue Lagoon Iceland

26. BL+ Eye Cream

Buy now: $165, skincare.bluelagoon.com

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

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

Courtesy of Kinfield

27. Kinfield Golden Hour Bug Repellent

Buy now: $22, kinfield.com

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

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

Courtesy of Standard Dose

28. Wonder Valley Little Wonders Kit

Buy now: $72, saksfifthavenue.com

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

Travel clothes and shoes

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

Courtesy of Filson

29. Filson Women’s Wool Trapper Coat

On sale December 1: $995, filson.com

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

30. Gobi Oversized Cashmere Scarf

Buy now: $229, gobicashmere.com

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

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

Courtesy of Mountain Hardwear

31. Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Poncho

Buy now: $300, mountainhardwear.com

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

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

Photo by Cristina Fisher

32. Hotel Saint Vincent Marbled Silk Robe

Buy now: $395, farwestcollective.com

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

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

Courtesy of Amazon

33. Calzuro Classic Clog with Holes

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of Chaco

34. Chaco Ramble Puff Clogs

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

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

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

Courtesy of Sh*t That I Knit

35. Sh*t That I Knit Rutherford Beanie

Buy now: $135, shitthatiknit.com

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

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

36. Baggu Packable Sun Hat

Buy now: $36, baggu.com

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

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

Courtesy of Sabah

37. Sabah Shoes

Buy now: from $210, sabah.am

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

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

38. Glerups Slipper Boots

Buy now: $155, glerups.com

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

Compression socks are a travel essential.

Courtesy of Bombas

39. Bombas Compression Socks

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

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

Outdoor adventure gear

This blanket is campfire safe.

Courtesy of Rumpl

40. Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Blanket

Buy now: $130, rumpl.com

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

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

Courtesy of VSSL

41. VSSL Java Coffee Grinder

Buy now: $160, vsslgear.com

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

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

Courtesy of AeroPress

42. AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

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

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

This snowshoe kit is great for beginners.

Courtesy of Cascade Mountain Tech

43. Cascade Mountain Tech Expedition Trail Series kit

Buy now: $120, cascademountaintech.com

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

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

Courtesy of Maven

44. Maven B.3 Binoculars

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

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

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

Travel gifts for kids (and their parents)

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

Courtesy of Puro Sound Labs

45. Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiets Active Noise Canceling Headphones

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

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

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

Courtesy of State Bags

46. State Bags Kane Kids Mini Travel Backpack

Buy now: $78, statebags.com

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

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

Courtesy of Studio Olafur Eliasson

47. Little Sun Original Solar Lamp

Buy now : $30, goodeeworld.com

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

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

Courtesy of Stokke

48. JetKids by Stokke

Buy now: $229, stokke.com

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

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

Courtesy of WAYB

49. WAYB Pico Portable Car Seat

Buy now: $380, wayb.com

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

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

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

Courtesy of No Reception Club

50. No Reception Club “The Sidekick” Fanny Pack

Buy now: $85, noreceptionclub.com

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

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

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• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

16 Unique Travel Accessories We Didn't Know We Needed in 2024

From drink caddies to pocket tools, these game-changing accessories make travel better.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

In This Article

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

The most innovative travel accessories offer solutions to common frustrations we’ve learned to accept as part of the process, and the truly game-changing ones solidify themselves as the new way we travel. Consider wheeled luggage: for centuries we lugged around heavy trunks and suitcases before someone had the idea to add wheels (and to go back would seem almost like a cruel form of punishment). 

However, with so many new travel products flooding the market these days, it can be hard to know when something is worth your hard-earned coin or a dud. That’s where we come in. We’ve scoped out the scene to find the most revolutionary and unique travel accessories that you didn’t even know existed — or that you so desperately needed. 

Why travel tough when you don’t have to? From space-saving drink caddies and secret, stashable storage to travel bidets and sunglasses that just might replace your earbuds, these are the products that are changing the way we travel for the better. 

Bevledge Airplane Window Organization Station

It’s a slim and portable beverage tray that utilizes the window to hold more than just your drinks. 

It doesn’t work on all window types, and some airlines don’t allow it.

The BevLedge is the answer for all window-seat flyers who struggle with divvying up the real estate on their tray table. This genius travel product functions as a lightweight drink holder that perches at the bottom of most (but not all) plane windows. Just unfold it, slide it into the window frame, pop it out, and voila! you’ve got a double-drink caddy with dedicated space to store two pairs of sunglasses, your cell phone, and two pairs of wired earphones. The slim design measures about six inches wide when folded and can easily fit in your bag's main compartment or a laptop/tablet slip pocket. Using the BevLedge will still shake your drinks if you hit rough air, but they’ll be more secure than on your tray table. 

Price at publish: $20

Vssl Wilderness Navigation Flask & Flashlight

Uncommon Goods

It’s like the Swiss Army Knife of flasks. 

The emergency tools can only be used simultaneously if the flask is empty. 

Swap out those old-school, flat-shaped flasks for the Vssl Outdoor Flask that is designed to not only quench your thirst on the go but can also help you out of some tricky travel situations. The Vssl Outdoor Flask features a built-in emergency, multi-mode LED flashlight, aluminum bottle opener, and precision compass topper — and holds up to eight ounces of liquid plus two collapsible stainless steel 1.5-ounce cups hidden inside. Double insulation and a double vacuum seal promise to keep cold drinks chilled for up to 10 hours and hot drinks steaming for up to five. The 9.3-inch high cylindrical stainless steel design is rugged yet stylish, with a magnetic carabiner clip that makes it perfect for taking out on a day hike, a far-flung train ride, or other places where resources may be scarce. Just be prepared to pour out any remaining liquid if you get lost; the flashlight and compass pieces also function as end caps. 

Price at publish: $115

LokiStashed 3-Pack Velvet Hair Tie Scrunchies

It’s like having a small purse on your wrist or in your hair.

You have to be mindful of the types of items you store inside. 

We’re huge fans of travel accessories that allow us to be practical without losing style points. These LokiStashed Classic Scrunchies do double duty as throwback hair ties and somewhat incognito stash wallets. Each pack comes with three scrunchies with a zippered opening that allows you to store valuables such as cash, tickets, lip balm, or even a loose key. We love the heavy-duty elastic because it’s strong enough to hold long or thick hair, while the plush velvet material keeps it comfortable on our wrists and doesn’t snag on hair. Heavy or bulky items may cause the scrunchie to sag or have its secret storage feature exposed, while delicate stashes may become damaged when twisted around your ponytail.  

Price at publish: $13 for 3

Apollo Neuro

Courtesy of Apollo Neuro

It’s a drug-free option to help lower stress and improve sleep. 

It's pricey and may not work for everyone. 

Frequent traveling, long journeys, and time zone changes can wreck your body and affect your sleep quality. The Apollo Wearable is a health wearable backed by over 15 years of scientific research. This unique accessory doesn’t track your health so much as add to it by using varying vibrations to stimulate the vagus nerve, signaling the body’s natural response to touch. It is said to reduce stress and improve sleep with as little as three hours of daily wear, and attaches with a strap that resembles an inverted Apple Watch. Users choose between eight specific vibration programs in the app for a targeted effect, and can customize the length of time and intensity, too. (We especially like "unwind" to help us relax during travel and "fall asleep" when adjusting to new time zones.)

Price at publish: $349

Rolling Square Keychain Charger Cable

You can use a device as a power source. 

You may have to remove some phone cases to fit the port. 

Sick of packing separate chargers for all of your different travel tech devices? The Rolling Square inCharge 6-in-1 charger swaps out your need to carry around several separate charging cords by providing six different types of charging ports in one portable charger that fits on your keychain. Yes, it’s true — it gives you two main USB-A and USB-C ports that each charge or sync to USB-C, Lightning, and Micro-USB ports. We especially love that it enables you to take the juice from one device to power another. For example, you can pull a charge from one iPhone to charge your wireless earbuds — a life-saver on long travel days. (Note: this feature is only available if you use the USB-C input.) The price is a steal, and the only real downside we have found is that you might have to remove your device case for the port to fit fully. 

Price at publish: $20 

Weatherproof Packable Travel Neck Pillow

It’s a sneaky way to pack a little extra and beat the in-flight A/C.

The comfort level of the pillow really depends on what you stuff inside.  

Packable neck pillows are finally getting the recognition they deserve as clever ways to sneak some extra items onto the plane (they’re practically an additional day bag carry-on), but this product takes it even further. Are you heading to a destination with erratic temperatures? The Weatherproof Packable Travel Neck Pillow comes pre-packed with a lightweight, down-alternative puffer jacket. On the journey, it functions as a comfy neck pillow — and the convenience of packing a solid jacket for your trip without taking up space (a particular boon for those just-in-case jacket needs). We also like that we can wear the jacket on the return trip, if needed, and free up some suitcase space for more souvenirs. This works best if later you stuff the pillow sleeve with larger, softer items like sweaters and scarves since it’ll be less comfy with lumpy items with the jacket removed. 

Price at publish: $70

Cincha Travel Belt

It has serious style and works with most bags and luggage. 

You’ll get more pattern and color options if you order directly from Cincha. 

The Cincha Travel Belt is a stylish solution to the age-old problem of carrying multiple luggage pieces or securing your purse, diaper bag, or other personal bag to the trolley handle of your carry-on suitcase. Think of this as a cinching belt (that stretches up to 45 inches) for your travel bags. We love that it works with almost any standalone bag that can fit with a simple wraparound and click of the belt and adds solid style to boot. The belt features vegan leather accents and is available in 14 core colors and patterns, plus a handful of limited-edition designs at any time (and you’ll get the most variety by ordering directly from Cincha). Even as you’re wheeling around hands-free, you can still access the contents of your attached bag, so there’s no need to clip and reclip. For some sneaky extra storage and added convenience, grab the Belt Bag , a zippered pouch that doubles as both a travel belt and a crossbody or hip pack to wear instead. 

Price at publish: $40

Fila x Revel Tune Smart Sunglasses

Glasses USA

You can snag a pair even if you wear prescription lenses. 

People may look at you like you’re talking to yourself. 

The Fila X Revel Tune SFI502 Sunglasses make carrying around headphones borderline irrelevant. With new technology, the glasses allow you to be able to listen to music and take calls through the sunglasses you’re already wearing. The design combines function and fashion with a slightly more boxy take on the classic Wayfarer shape, and you can expect to get top-notch audio and crisp vision. Like wireless headphones, these audio sunglasses have quick-touch controls at the temples. One of our favorite things about these sunglasses is that you can customize them with prescription lenses, including bifocals or progressive lenses. Prepare for puzzled stares from fellow travelers who could assume you’re talking to yourself when taking calls on these glasses. For now, this limited-edition collab pair is only available on one site. 

Price at publish: $138

Riemot Luggage Cup Holder

It gives travelers the freedom to roll around the airport without juggling too much in their hands.

This works best on spinner suitcases (versus two-wheeled luggage). 

Raise your hands if you wish your stroll to and from the gate could be a more hands-free experience. Consider adding a drink caddy to your luggage or stroller . The Riemont Luggage Travel Cup Holder is a sneaky travel accessory that effortlessly slips over your carry-on trolley handle to give you a temporary, dedicated space to store an airport drink (or two), and your phone. Beverages such as water bottles, baby bottles, reusable water bottles, or coffee cups sit in the front two pockets, while your cell phone, boarding pass, or passport can slip in the back pocket sleeve — and just like that, your hands are free from a cumbersome and delicate balancing act. While you can use this as a caddy as you wait at the gate, if you want to move hands-free through the airport, you’ll need to have a piece of luggage with four wheels to avoid spillage. 

Price at publish: $12

Twelve South AirFly Pro

There’s no need to have wired headphones to use the in-flight screen. 

It can be finicky to set up the first time. 

Wireless headphones have soared in popularity, and airline seatback entertainment systems have yet to catch up. While your wireless headphones will work for app-based entertainment on personal devices, if you’ve gotten stuck on a long flight with only a wired audio plug-in option, it’s hard to forget. Instead of buying and carrying around two sets of headphones, the Twelve South Airfly Pro Bluetooth Transmitter has come up with a solution so obvious we can’t believe nobody has thought of it before. This wired Bluetooth transmitter plugs into your standard headphone jack and lets you transmit and receive audio via wireless earbuds. Even better news? It works with car aux-in jacks, has up to 16 hours of battery life (charged with a USB-C), and can pair up to two sets of earphones simultaneously — making it a great travel product that'll save money in the long run.

Price at publish: $55

Victorinox Pocket Tool

It’s compact enough to bring it on daily adventures, just in case. 

You’ll need to put this in a checked bag for air travel as you cannot bring it into the cabin itself. 

The Swiss Army Knife has finally gotten a modern update. The Victorinox Swisscard Lite Pocket Tool is a 13-in-1 utility accessory that is the size of a credit card, and, at under three millimeters thick, slim enough to fit into your wallet. This impressively-designed card squeezes scissors, a ballpoint pen, a straight pin, four micro screwdrivers, an emergency blade, magnifying glass, a ruler with centimeters and inches, LED light, and tweezers into one space. While we love the compactness of this tool, it’s worth noting that its plastic casing is not as durable as the metal used in the O.G. Swiss Army knife and, since it has a blade, it can’t be carried into an airplane cabin. 

Price at publish: $35

Orihill Water Bottle Pouch

It’s a minimalist packer’s dream come true. 

The new larger size works best on water bottles with a handle. 

The Akisola Water Bottle Pouch is for our truly minimalist travelers out there. Keep everything you need to stay hydrated and organized in the palm of one hand with this strap-on wallet for your water bottle. Board your flight, train, or bus with just your water bottle and an Akisola zippered pouch loaded up with your phone, ID, ticket, passport, money, and other necessary travel items. The elastic strap easily adjusts to fit multiple water bottle sizes and velcros firmly into place. This version sports a new and improved, patented anti-slip grip on the back of the pouch to help keep it from sliding down the side of your water bottle. The new, larger 6.8-by-3.9-inch pouch can fit up to an iPhone 14 Plus but that makes it more difficult to carry on water bottles without a handle. 

Subtl Beauty Starter Stack

Subtl Beauty

All five products in the Starter Stak are gluten-free, fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and vegan. 

Not all pods are customizable for skin tone or type. 

Looking for a handy travel accessory for the woman in your life? Subtl has created an ultra-portable, stackable way to travel with makeup essentials. Their Starter Stak comes with six individual pods that screw-stack on top of each other, perfectly sized for an easy travel makeup routine and touch-ups on the go. Each pod holds 3 to 3.9 grams (up to 60 applications) of cream concealer, highlighter powder, shine control powder, 2-in-1 lip and cheek balm, plus a makeup brush pod and mirrored top cap. Want a taller stack? Adding and customizing your stack is as easy as choosing your shade and adding it to the pack. Each pod is approximately one centimeter deep and under two inches wide, leaving you with a streamlined, TSA-approved cylinder you can toss into your bag without taking up tons of space. For the starter pack, you’ll get to select your concealer shade, which also dictates the bronzer color you'll receive, but everything else has a fixed shade. The makeup claims to be for all skin types, but the cream-based makeup will likely require setting if you have oily skin. 

SoMine Seat Organizer

It keeps all of your travel essentials within arm’s reach in the seat pocket in front of you.

It needs the weight of being fully loaded to keep it from swinging into your shins when in the seatback pocket. 

The SoMine Commuter Essential Seat Organizer is an easy-access storage pouch that puts all of your frequently-accessed travel gear essentials — including your earbuds, tablet, reading material, cords, snacks, and more — within arm’s reach in the seatback pocket in front of you. Load it up with your gear, pack it in your carry-on, and then use the tote handle to pull it out once you’re in your seat and slip the anchor sleeve into the pouch of the seatback pocket. We love this because it limits the number of times you’ll need to bend over or get up to access an overhead bag. 

The main organizer sleeve has four small slip pockets plus one larger main slip pocket that can fit a tablet, plus a metal-reinforced corner cable hole for easy wired device connectivity and charging. The zippered top-layer privacy pouch hides your gear from nosy neighbors and is perfect for storing smaller loose items like ID or credit cards, coins, earbud cases, or your passport. A thoughtful water-resistant lining keeps us calm in case of drink spills, but we don’t love that it knocks into our knees when there’s not enough weight inside. 

Price at publish: $25

Tushy Travel Bidet

 It’s inconspicuous to carry. 

This manual bidet doesn’t have the same stream strength as a built-in bidet. 

Fueled by the Great Toilet Paper Shortage of 2020, more people than we can count became fans of the bidet during the first part of the pandemic — and the Tushy brand was there to answer the call. The popular bidet brand has created a collapsible bidet that travelers swear by. The Tushy Travel Bidet is a discreet and portable squeeze-to-squirt bidet that clips onto or into your travel bag. Just fill it up, pop out the nozzle, get into position, and squeeze. We not only like this product for travelers who prefer bidets, but it can also be a lifesaver when you find yourself in public or makeshift toilet situations where toilet paper isn’t an option. Be warned, though: it’s a manual method that can require awkward positioning, and the stream may not be as steady or robust as what you’re used to with a regular bidet.  

Price at publish: $29

Ostrichpillow Original Travel Pillow

This comes in extra clutch on long layovers and works for multiple forms of travel. 

It takes up a lot of space and looks a bit silly. 

You’ve probably seen the immersive Ostrich Original Napping Pillow pop up in your targeted ads; this game-changing (yet odd-looking) pillow creates a sleep space practically anywhere along your travel journey. The catch? You’ve got to stick your head and hands inside of it. Comfy and soft pillow blocks out sound and light to create a tranquil, padded environment that makes it easier to fall asleep. Slide in and rest your head on your tray table or against a wall or window to create a private sleep environment. It is a top pick for a travel pillow if you’re willing to look strange or carry around a pillow helmet in the name of good sleep. 

Price at publish: $99

Tips for Buying Unique Travel Accessories

Prioritize usability.

Just because something is cool doesn’t mean it will be a must-have for your needs. Consider when and where you’ll use a specific travel product. Luggage space is still prime, so we recommend only springing for the items with the most potential for frequent use. Of course, there’s no harm in treating yourself (if you can afford it) because you never know what unique buy could become your next trip essential.

Consider your trip type

We’re definitely on board with big or small travel accessory purchases that will significantly improve your journey or experience at a destination. If you don’t travel often and have a bucket list trip that requires long-haul flights, why not do what you can to make sure you arrive rested and fresh? If you’re backpacking or hopping on a ton of transit, it’s best to stock up on accessories that are easy to pack, carry, and take from place to place, but less so if it’s a road trip where you can leave these items in the car. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven relied on her expertise and experience as a frequent traveler, conducted thorough research, and collected insights from fellow travelers to share the best and most unique accessories on the market. 

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50 New Travel Accessories for Women: gear every traveler needs, a gift guide

In today’s world of strict airline baggage fees, flight disruptions, and lost or delayed luggage, packing light has become a necessity. The good news is that as travel has evolved, so have the tools for smarter, more efficient packing. For women travelers who want both style and efficiency, creating a carry-on travel packing list no longer means sacrificing comfort, style, or security. Instead, it’s an opportunity to curate a collection of accessories designed to make your journeys easier and more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll explore the best new minimalist gear and travel accessories for women.

This post includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no additional expense to you if you purchase something or take an action on one of these links. This is how we are able to run this website.   DISCLOSURE

Electronics & Gear | In-Flight Comfort | General Travel Accessories | Women’s Hygiene | Bags & Packing | Travel Safety | Clothing & Accessories for Women

Table of Contents

Top 10 New Favorites: Minimalist Travel Gear

With dozens of new travel products on my social media feed every day, I find it helpful to know what real travelers use and appreciate. We’ve enjoyed a lot of travel this year – from wonderful catch up visits with family to a bucket list trip to the Galapagos Islands – and I’ve had the opportunity to try some new products. So before going into the 50+ items that I recommend for general travel I want to share my big winners of 2023. These are the new (to me!) products that have made a big difference in my packing and travel organization.

Here are my top 10 new favorite travel accessories:

Peak Design Tech Pouch

• inCharge Keychain 6-in-1 Multi Charging Cable
• Collapsible Ultralight Hiking Pole
• Apple AirPods Pro

Reversible Wrap Skirt

• Packable Rain Jacket (not new but a favorite minimalist accessory)
• Small Pill Pouches
• Patagonia Ultralight Travel Tote

Clean/Dirty Laundry Cube

• Airplane Foot Hammock (not minimalist but a great help when minimalizing my air travel budget)

Please share with all of us your new favorites in the comments!

Top Minimalist Travel Gear & Travel Accessories for Women

Traveling light and efficiently begins with creating a travel capsule wardrobe and a minimalist, or carry-on sized , packing list. How minimalistic is completely up to you! Female travelers, especially solo female travelers, may want a higher level of security that a man would. Some travelers may have health or mobility issues they need to address in their packing. Despite the posts on social media, packing is not a competition. But we all can benefit from packing lighter.

We’ve travel-tested the items listed below and recommend them for today’s smart travelers! We indicate below the product name if the item is recommended for minimalist travel, sustainable travel, or extra security . All of these would be a great gift options for your favorite traveler, but I include in the tagline if it’s perfect as a small gift or stocking stuffer .

Electronics & Gear

Years ago, when we didn’t have so many amazing electronic gadgets, we all traveled ‘light’. But the utility of these devices is more than worth the weight. We just need to manage all the accessories that go along with the electronics! Here are our recommendations on the right travel accessories for your electronics:

At first glance the Peak Design Tech Pouch might not seem like it should be on a packing light list, but this pouch is so well designed that it takes the place of multiple charging cord organizers, small electronics cases, a flight bag, and even a purse.

On our long flights in South America, it carried my passport, travel documents, Apple Airpods Pro, wallet, iPhone & iPad mini, kindle, journal and pens, masks and antiseptic wipes, chargers & external power bank, and camera batteries. And I still had room for hand lotion, necessary meds, and a few cosmetics. At my destination I took out the tech stuff, attached a shoulder strap, and used it as a purse. My 2023 top pick.

MINIMALIST | Weight: 10.2 oz (288g ) 100% recycled 200D nylon. Peak Design is a certified B corporation.

Available on Peak Design or Amazon

Multi-head charger

Everyone who has traveled with a tangle of charging cords will appreciate a multi- head charger. These feature a plug on one end and multiple options for your devices on the other. If you’re an Apple user, you can find a multi-head cord that’ll charge your Apple watch, iPhone, and AirPods at the same time. And there are similar versions for Android users.

My current favorite is the tiny inCharge Keychain 6-in-1 charger . It has a USB cable plug and USB-C cable on one end, and lightning and USB-C on the other. I carry this charger and a small ‘lipstick’ power bank in my day bag for a quick charge of either my phone or ipad mini. (you can see this in the picture of my tech pouch above.)

MINIMALIST | STOCKING STUFFER

Another option for convenient charging while traveling is a compact power strip. The Anker power strip will plug into one outlet and offer slots for multiple charging cords. Useful when staying on cruise ships or in older accommodations with few outlets.

External Power Bank/Charger

Keeping your devices charged while traveling can be crucial. You don’t want to run out of juice when you’re far from home so be sure to carry a compact portable charger. If you’re short on space, carry one of the lipstick-sized power bank . But if you will be away from electricity for longer, look for larger capacity models with fast-charging capabilities and multiple output ports to charge multiple devices simultaneously.

Universal Travel Adapter

A universal travel adapter is a must-have for any minimalist traveler. It replaces the need for multiple adapters for different countries, ensuring you can charge your devices anywhere in the world. Look for one with multiple USB ports to charge multiple devices simultaneously.

STOCKING STUFFER

Apple AirPods Pro (and other noise-cancelling earbuds)

Bluetooth earbuds are fantastic on long flights when you don’t have room in your bag for over the ear headphones. Far and away the best noise canceling earbuds we’ve tried are the AirPods Pro . My husband, the music lover, swears by these.

If you’re not in the Apple ecosystem, look for great noise-canceling earbuds from Bose, JBL and other brands. I loved my Bose Quiet Comfort earbuds until I lost one while walking on a windy beach.

Mini Lantern/Flashlight

Nothing fancy about this but having a small flashlight that opens to become a lantern , is an essential accessory when I travel. I use my iPhone when I need a quick light, but for a trip where the electricity is not reliable (or non-existent!) I pack my mini lantern. It came in handy the night an elephant visited our camp in Botswana and took down the electricity.

This handy tool stays on my bedside table at home in case of power outage.

Solar Power Bank

A solar power bank is an eco-friendly accessory that uses solar power to charge your devices, making it a good source of energy when you’re traveling off the grid. Travelers committed to eco-friendly travel will appreciate that these solar chargers reduce the reliance on traditional electricity sources, making it a great choice for sustainability.

There are many varieties of these power banks available. Some have built-in flashlights and USB ports; some can be charged by electricity as well as solar. Pick the one that works for you.

SUSTAINABLE

AirFly Pro Bluetooth Audio Transmitter

The Twelve South AirFly Pro is an audio transmitter that connects your wireless headphones or earbuds to devices that don’t have Bluetooth capabilities, such as older airplane entertainment systems, and most travel tour headsets. Using an AirFly (or similar), you can enjoy a more comfortable audio experience during long flights, or in situations where headphone wires may be inconvenient. The AirFly Pro will connect to two sets of headphones which is especially nice if you want to watch a movie together on the flight.

STOCKING STUFFER | STOCKING STUFFER

Travel Tripod

I have a basic Gorillapod travel tripod , which is compact enough to fit in my day bag, but strong enough to hold a phone or mirrorless camera. When we’re traveling with bigger cameras and gear, we need a stronger, yet still lightweight and portable, tripod. We’re using a relatively moderately priced travel tripod now but have heard great things about the Peak Design carbon fiber tripods from other travelers. (have to save our money for that one!).

Kindle eReader

Use the Kindle app on your phone or tablet if you’re able, but if you’re like me and an avid nighttime reader, the Kindle Paperwhite is easier on your eyes and doesn’t use blue light that interferes with your (eventually) falling asleep. It’s also waterproof so safer to use by the pool or on the beach.

Fisher Space Pen

A great gift choice for any traveler! The Fisher Space pen will write upside down, underwater, in zero gravity and at extreme temperatures. Pretty much anywhere a traveler can think of to go. (I use it on the plane for filling out customs forms… Ha!)

Phone Lanyard

This is a new travel accessory for me. I originally purchased a phone lanyard to carry my phone while cycling. It’s held securely and is easy to access for a quick picture, or if I need a GPS check. But recently I’ve taken to wearing it in cities to prevent snatch and grab thefts. I wear it around my neck, but you could loop it around your wrist if you’d be more comfortable.

The Latest Cell Phone!

Updating your cell phone offers many benefits for travelers. Besides the obvious benefit of communicating with loved ones and emergency services, a cell phone offers GPS navigation, aids in language translation, gives access to valuable travel apps, doubles as a camera for capturing memories, and ensures entertainment during downtime. In case of emergencies, a state of the art cell phone can also be a vital lifeline, making it a practical and lightweight addition to your minimalist travel essentials and an essential travel accessory for women.

An updated cell phone is always a good travel gift! Today’s phone cover many of the older travel necessities: camera, GPS, translator, alarm, entertainment.

Travel Accessories for In-Flight Comfort

Air travel is tough these days. Long lines, short tempers, and cramped quarters don’t create the ideal environment for a relaxing trip. Spend a little time before your flight planning on how you’ll stay comfortable on your long flight . And if you’ve a bit of space in your bags, consider adding a few items that’ll ease the journey.

Travel Pillow / Inflatable Pillow

A good night’s sleep is essential for a successful journey. Opt for a compact travel pillow that can be compressed and attached to your luggage when not in use. Memory foam and inflatable options provide excellent comfort without taking up much space. My go-to neck pillow is an inflatable one from IKEA.

Silk Pillowcase

Another option for ensuring a good sleep is to pack a silk pillowcase that can be stuffed with a sweater or jacket. These pillowcases come in several sizes. I use a ‘toddler’ sized pillow for in-flight comfort. On long-haul flights I use my inflatable neck pillow AND an additional pillow behind my back for support. Add my foot hammock (below) and I can almost convince myself I’m flying in First Class! Almost…

Airplane Foot Hammock

The Airplane Foot Hammock is far from minimalist but it’s a lifesaver on a long-haul flight in an Economy Class seat. Simply loop the strap over your tray table’s support, adjust to your comfort level and you have a bit of a footrest.

Weight: 9 oz. (255 g.)

If you’re a light sleeper or have noise sensitivity earplugs may be one of your most useful travel accessories. Whether you’re dealing with noisy hotel neighbors, loud street sounds, or the hum of an airplane engine, earplugs offer help.

You’ll find simple foam disposable earplugs at your local pharmacy or purchase reusable ones that filter for specific sounds online.

Day to Day Travel Accessories for Women

Here are some of my favorite day to day travel accessories. I’ve chosen items that can simplify your journey, enhance your well-being, and make those hours on the move an enjoyable part of your adventure. Let me know if there’s something I’ve missed!

Travel Journal or Notebook

It’s important to have someplace to keep track of travel info and save thoughts along the way. This can be as simple as a travel app on your phone, but I like to have a hard copy of important information in case the phone is lost, or internet is unavailable. And I also like to jot down memories along the way.

I use a simple Field Notes book for short trips and a bit larger Leuchtturm booklet for a longer or more complicated trip. Both fit easily into my day bag.

Eating Utensils, including a reusable straw

Packing reusable utensils is a eco-friendly choice at home or on the road. It promotes environmental responsibility by reducing single-use plastic waste, ensures food hygiene, and provides convenience for dining on-the-go or in areas where disposable utensils may be scarce. Additionally, carrying your own utensils can demonstrate cultural respect in some regions where it’s customary.

Carrying your own reusable utensils and a straw is an easy way to make any of your travels more eco-friendly. But for adventure travelers, campers, etc. a small utensil kit is mandatory.

Folding Walking Stick

Carrying hiking poles on a flight is a challenge. You can pack them in your check-in luggage, but most airlines won’t allow them in carry-on luggage without a doctor’s note. We have found that you CAN usually bring a collapsible walking stick in your cabin bag if it doesn’t have a pointy end. (Check with your airline to make sure!)

I carried an inexpensive aluminum collapsible hiking pole (pictured) to Peru this year and it was a huge help while climbing around ancient Incan ruins.

MINIMALIST | Weight: 10.3 oz. (292 g.)

Packable Rain Jacket

A necessity for travel. I have a nice looking packable Cole Haan rain coat for city travel, and a waterproof rain jacket from Red Ledge (shown above) for nature adventure travel. Both compress to take up little room in my suitcase.

Travel Umbrella

Not a rain jacket lover? Pack an ultralight travel umbrella in your bag. It’ll also serve as a sun shade on hot days.

Collapsible Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is both an eco-friendly and minimalist choice. Most travelers are very aware of the problem of plastic pollution and will appreciate a reusable bottle. Choose a collapsible or foldable design that can be easily stashed away when not in use.

MINIMALIST | SUSTAINABLE

Reusable utensils, water bottles, and solid toiletries are just some of the gift ideas for eco-friendly travelers.

Portable Fan / Cooling Scarf

Not always in my packing list, but if I’m anticipating long touring days in hot climates, I’ll add a handheld fan. If I’m traveling with minimal luggage, I’ll carry a cooling scarf . Just soak the scarf for 20 minutes and you’ll stay cool(er) for hours.

Magnet for Securing Bags, etc.

Magnetic hooks? Not something I thought I’d travel with but magnetic hooks , or Bagnet magnets, are a game changer if you’re on a ship or in a sleeper train with little storage room. Just stick the magnet to the wall and hang your coat, bathing suit, etc.

This is the perfect solution for keeping your purse off the floor in a public bathroom!

Carabiner / Heroclip

A carabiner can be a valuable addition to your travel gear. It’s perfect for securing your belongings, whether you’re attaching bags to fixed points to prevent theft or hanging gear to dry. Carabiners can also be used to attach water bottles or jackets to your travel bag.

I carry a Heroclip carabiner when I travel. Heroclips take carabiners to another level by adding a swiveling outer piece which can be used as a hook. I use this to connect my personal item to my carry-on bag or keep my daypack off the ground. You’ll find many other uses, I’m sure! The small Heroclip will hold up to 50 lbs and only weighs a bit over 1 ounce.

Women’s Health and Hygiene Accessories

Packing sunscreen is crucial for protecting your skin from sun damage while you’re traveling. People often underestimate how quickly they will burn while enjoying a few hours on vacation. Whether you’re exploring a new city, lounging on a beach, or engaging in outdoor activities, sunscreen helps to prevent painful sunburns, and, most importantly, safeguards your long-term health.

Look for reef-safe sunscreen if you’ll be snorkeling or enjoying other sports in tropical waters.

Solid Toiletries

Packing solid toiletries offers several advantages for travelers. First,

• Solid Toiletries are more compact and lightweight than liquid counterparts, helping you save space and reduce the weight of your luggage.
• Solid toiletries are less likely to leak or spill, preventing messy accidents and preserving the contents of your bag.
• Solid toiletries are TSA-friendly, as they don’t need to be included in your quart-sized liquid bag during security checks.

From solid shampoo bars to toothpaste tablets, these eco-friendly options also contribute to reducing plastic waste, making them an environmentally responsible choice. Be sure to try the items at home to make sure to find the solid toiletry that works for you.

But if you can’t find a solid alternative, minimize your packing with …

Minimal Toiletry Containers

Liquid makeup and toiletries take up a lot of space in your luggage. And most of your at-home-bottles are way beyond the TSA approved size of 3 ounces. If possible, decant a bit of your makeup into small containers (like contact lens cases) and invest in a few travel-sized, leak-proof silicone bottles for your shampoo, etc. These are not only space-saving but also eco-friendly as they reduce single-use plastic waste.

Bonus points: Reuse bottles you may have around your home.

Personal Hygiene Essentials for Female Travelers

• Diva Cup – a reusable feminine hygiene product.
• Restroom Kit – each purse sized kit contains a toilet seat cover, toilet paper, and a hand wipe.
• Venus to Mars female urinal. A great help when ‘first world’ toilets aren’t available.

Travel Hair Tools

I travel domestically with a simple flat iron , but when I’m flying internationally, and short on space, I rely on hair dryers in my accommodations, or just let my curly hair have a vacation.

There are a lot of excellent travel hair accessories available today, curling irons, blow dryers, etc. all in compact size. Most work with dual voltage but be sure to check before packing for the trip.

Travel Electric Toothbrush

If you use an electric toothbrush at home, consider purchasing a travel version before your next holiday. It’s hard to change your brushing routine!

A travel electric toothbrush comes in a compact size making it easy to stow in your luggage, and ensuring your dental hygiene continues while on the road. Many models come with long-lasting batteries or rechargeable options, and some newer models are being made of eco-friendly bamboo.

Of course there are lots of options for non-electric (manual??) travel toothbrushes!

Pack for Safer Travel

Adding a few safety and security accessories to your packing list is a proactive approach to ensuring a stress-free travel experience. Most likely you will never need these items, but knowing they’re there may give you peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Travel First Aid kit

Put together a travel first aid kit that works for you and your destination. Make a comprehensive kit if you intend to camp and hike, or keep it minimal if you’re traveling to a local city. I keep a kit in my car that came pre-packed with everything I might need while out with the family or on a road trip, but winnow that down to a small kit when I’m traveling light.

Every kit should include the essentials like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and the prescription medications you might need. I usually add 24 hours worth of OTC medicines for common ailments like a cold or stomach trouble.

For a more extensive kit consider adding items like insect repellent, burn cream, anti-diarrheal medication, motion sickness pills, COVID tests, and a thermometer.

Secure Strap for Camera or Travel Bag

Ramp up the secure carry of your gear by switching out regular camera or purse straps for a reinforced one. I use a strap from Pacsafe which is slash proof, can be locked to a stationary object, yet is not too heavy. It’s easy to attach it to my purse or day bag and just makes me feel safer.

Security Alarm for Hotel Door

A portable door alarm adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind, especially for solo travelers. It can be attached to the door handle or door jamb, and if someone tries to force entry, it will emit a loud alarm sound alerting you and hopefully deterring the intruder. Having a compact door alarm ensures you feel safe and secure in your room, allowing you to rest easier during your travels.

One of my favorite travel accessories for women and men!!

Lockable Safe for Hotel Rooms or Beach Chairs

Packing a lockable safe, such as a portable travel safe or lockbox, can be a good idea depending on how you travel. Many accommodations have a safe built into a closet or cabinet, but when you leave your room to spend a day at the beach the valuables you carry – your phone, watch, wallet – are unprotected. After years of one of us standing guard over our stuff, we’ve invested in a small portable lockbox . We can clip the small bag to our chair, bike, or whatever, and enjoy the time together.

Look for a case that suits your needs. If you’re camping or staying in shared areas, consider a case that provides a secure space for everything, important documents, electronics, and money. If you’re only expecting to be at a hotel pool, you can get away with something smaller.

Packing a portable safe can be invaluable in emergency situations, making it a practical and reassuring addition to your travel gear.

New Favorites: Bags and Packing Accessories

Choosing the right travel bags and packing gear is the first step towards packing efficiently. Once you have the tools you need you can begin the packing process.

Some of you may be able to carry all your needs in a backpack. If I’m off on a short trip, a weekend getaway or a road trip, I still pack in a lightweight duffel/backpack. But as I’m older now and have nagging shoulder issues on a longer trip I opt for a lightweight wheeled carry-on and a 12-20L day bag.

Travel Bags

This is your primary luggage. Luggage makers are adding a lot of bells and whistles to their latest bags – charging ports, fold-out closets, etc., but I recommend opting for the lightest and most durable bag you can find. Light for obvious reasons, but durable also for those times when the gate agents decide to check all carry-ons.

As I’m still traveling locally with my trusty duffel, the Tom Bihn Techonaut, and internationally with a Eagle Creek spinner, I have no new product to recommend. But I’d LOVE to hear what bag you’re carrying!

The day bag or travel purse is the bag you’re going to be carrying the most. Maximize the size of this if you want to use it as your airline personal item, but make sure it’s something you’ll also be happy to carry walking around a new city or joining a bus tour.

Here are my 2023 favorites :

Pacsafe Citysafe CX 17L Backpack

Designed especially for women, the Pacsafe Citysafe CX backpack is a great bag for international travel. It’s stylish, has plenty of room for personal items and has multiple security features. It’s a backpack you can confidently wear on your back without worrying about theft. And as with all the best bags, there is an easy access organizational panel where you can stash your most often needed items.

There’s a padded laptop sleeve making this a good choice for business trips too!

SECURITY/ANTI-THEFT | Weight: 1.55 lbs (703 g.) Made with ECONYL® nylon and recycled polyester.

Very similar to the Pacsafe backpack in style but without security features is the Baggallini Soho backpack. I didn’t end up keeping it but really liked this bag. The straps were quite comfortable, and I loved the way the bag opened fully to access contents.

Patagonia Ultralight Travel Tote Pack

I purchased the Patagonia Ultralight Travel Tote Pack for a cycling trip where we were limited on luggage size. This bag is remarkably well designed for such a lightweight bag. It can be carried as a tote, or as a backpack, and packs into itself to carry in your larger carry-on.

I purchased the black and dressed it up with a scarf when visiting vineyards. Though tougher than most packable bags, I wouldn’t check this bag. But fortunately, the size and squish factor make it unlikely you’ll have to give it up at the gate.

MINIMALIST | Weight: 13 oz. (368 g.) Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory with recycled nylon ripstop and recycled polyester. Patagonia is a certified B corporation.

Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Backpack

The Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack 20L was my daypack in the Galapagos Islands. Waterproof with plenty of space for my snorkeling goggles and inflatable safety vest. And it packed down to nothing when I flew home.

This is a dry bag that can be carried as a backpack, rather than a dedicated backpack. It has little organization and style but was perfect for a trip like mine. I wouldn’t recommend it for a trip where you’d need to carry it all day.

MINIMALIST | Weight: 7 oz. (194 g.) bluesign® approved 100% recycled 40D high-tenacity nylon

Pacsafe Stylesafe 2L Sling Pack

The Pacsafe Stylesafe sling pack is my go-to hip pack when I’m on a cycling holiday. An unobtrusive pack, it carried my passport, credit cards, phone, medicine, and a small first aid kit. Just a bit more robust than the usual money belts travelers carry and features an RFID blocking passport holder.

On overseas flights I loved that I could lock it to my airplane seat when I needed to get up. (I walk a LOT on overseas flights to avoid DVT.)

MINIMALIST | SECURITY/ANTI-THEFT | Weight: 8 oz. (227 g.)

DISCLAIMER: These are my 2023 favorites. There are many new travel bag options and I have only tested a few. I chose the bags I purchased based on reviews from fellow travelers, durability, and my travel itineraries. They may not work for your travel needs. Read Best Personal Carry-On Bags for your Flight and Travel Day Bags for Women , and Camera Bags for Women for more suggestions on bags I’ve tested.

Packing Organizers

Some people are happy to just roll their clothes and pack them. But I find it more efficient to use these small, lightweight bags that’ll help me stay organized during long trips .

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a game-changer for travelers looking to stay organized while keeping it minimal. These lightweight, zippered cubes help you categorize your clothes, making it easy to find what you need without rummaging through your whole bag. They also compress clothing, creating extra space in your luggage for other essentials. Opt for different sizes and colors to best utilize the bags.

I hesitated before trying a clean/dirty packing cube , but ended up loving it for keeping dirty clothes away from clean. The cube has a flexible divider which allows you to pack it full of clean clothes when you leave home but have a bag of dirties on the way home.

Don’t forget to pack some sort of a laundry bag to keep your clean clothes fresh!

Stasher Silicone Storage Bags

My daughter gifted me two Stasher storage bags a few years ago. I used them in the kitchen instead of plastic bags, but when I realized how well they worked for travel, I immediately bought more. I use them for snacks on the plane, for liquids like sunscreen, and have even used one a toiletry bag. They are made of food grade silicone and come in multiple colors and shapes.

SUSTAINABLE | STOCKING STUFFER Stasher is a certified B corporation.

OK, I haven’t yet purchased this item but realized how smart it was to have dedicated shoe bags when we were hiking in Peru. My friend’s shoe bags kept her muddy boots away from her travel clothes. I’ll be shopping for these when we book our next adventure trip.

(Or…do what I do and use old shower caps to cover the shoe bottoms)

Pill Pouches / Medicine Container

At some point in your life, you find yourself needing to carry medication wherever you go. I have a cute medicine container I carry in my purse, but when I’ve been traveling, I carry prescription medications in a bigger pill case. Now that I’ve discovered pill pouches I use them at home and when traveling.

I fill one of these small, reusable, see-through pouches with what I might need on the flight, e.g., 2 ibuprofen, 1 antacid, melatonin, etc. The small bag slips easily into my flight bag or purse. I do the same when we’re heading out on the bike, or out to dinner. And I use them for OTC medications when I don’t want to bring a whole bottle, e.g., 14 tablets of melatonin. Label the pouches so you won’t get confused.

Note: When I carry prescription medications overseas, I carry a copy of my physician’s prescriptions with me or I carry the medication in its original prescription bottle.

Apple AirTag/Luggage Tracker

This won’t solve the problem of lost luggage but at least by including an Apple AirTag or equivalent, you’ll be able to track your bag as it makes its way back to you.

SECURITY | STOCKING STUFFER

Clothing & Travel Accessories for Women

Investing in multi-functional clothing for a capsule wardrobe is a basis of minimalist travel. Adding pieces like convertible pants that turn into shorts or reversible scarves to your travel wardrobe can save you precious suitcase space. But before you purchase anything , consider how you can use the pieces you already have for different purposes. For example, a simple dress can be belted to become a tunic or worn over biking shorts as a skirt.

Clothing from Sustainable Fabrics

My regular readers won’t be surprised to see me recommending sustainable fabrics for their travel wardrobes. For my new readers, merino wool, bamboo, TENCEL, etc. are all great fabrics for traveling because they pack light, resist odors, and are easy to care for. I don’t advocate going out and buying a whole new wardrobe in these fabrics, but when you’re in need of a new travel shirt or dress, consider investing in natural fibers.

Two of my newest ventures into merino wool clothing have been fabulous for travel – a merino bra from Branwyn and a merino neck buff by WURU.

My favorite brands for eco-friendly, ethically made, pieces are also the brands I’ve chosen to partner with – Encircled , Toad & Co. , wool& , WURU , and Unbound Merino . There are more and more companies getting into the sustainability market (yay!) so find a brand that works for you. And check with second hand stores like the online ThredUp to be even more eco-friendly.

Many producers of organic clothing are small brands working towards sustainability. Check their websites for more information. A few that have already received B Corporation certification – Encircled, Eileen Fisher, Athleta. For more tips on traveling sustainably read Tips for Responsible Tourism

You’ll see scarves recommended on most packing lists and there’s a good reason for this. A bright colored scarf can add interest to a simple capsule wardrobe. Wear it around your neck, over your shoulders, or wrap it as a belt. But a scarf offers even more options; a scarf can also be used as a covering when visiting sacred sites, a light blanket on a flight, or even a tablecloth for an impromptu picnic.

Sleeve/scarf

My favorite variation on the scarf theme is the sleeve/sash by Diane Kroe. As the name implies, it’s a scarf with sleeves. Wear it around your neck for dinner and, when the evening gets cooler, slip your arms in the sleeves to create a shrug. OR tie it round your waist as a belt in a pinch.

MINIMALIST | Weight: 6 oz. (170 g.)

Packable Sun Hat

Another mandatory travel accessory for women AND for men. Find a hat that you’ll enjoy wearing to protect against sun damage. I’ve lost one loved one to skin cancer, and I don’t want to lose any of you.

Julahas Cape

These are investment pieces, but are great at home and on your travels. The beautiful Julahas capes are hand made by artisans in the Indian Himalayas and can be worn in many ways. They’re also great for snuggling under on chilly flights, so tuck a lightweight one into your carry-on bag.

An inexpensive addition to my travel wardrobe. As a ‘vintage’ woman I like to wear a skirt over leggings or cycling shorts. When I saw this reversible wrap skirt , I knew I had to try it. One side is a solid color, the other a print. and the skirt snaps securely in place on either side. I wear it on the pickleball court, as a swimsuit cover-up, and as a cute skirt for coffee with friends.

MINIMALIST | Weight: 7 oz (198 g.)

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an important option for every international or adventure traveler. Insuring your trip offers protection against events that can disrupt your plans, like trip cancellations due to illness, unforeseen family issues, lost luggage and other airline issues.

For years we have purchased insurance for our ‘big’ trips and have only had to file a claim three times, once for an airline strike, once for weather complications, and once for a death in the family. In all of these cases our claim was handled quickly and to our satisfaction.

But more importantly to us than the financial safeguard of travel insurance is that knowledge that if we have an injury, of suffer a medical emergency, we’ll get the treatment we need and will get a flight home. At this time in our lives this is essential for our travel well-being.

Having the right travel gear can significantly ease the challenges of travel. The travel accessories for women I’ve recommended simplify packing, while ensuring you’re comfortable and prepared for every situation. I hope that by selecting minimalist travel gear tailored to your needs, you can enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable journey, and really focus on having fun.

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Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

• 101 Unique Things to Do in Boston: an insider guide to hidden gems
• 25 Tips to Conquer Travel Anxiety: How to Make Travel Easier (and almost stress-free!)
• Easy Elegance: 3 Capsule Wardrobe Templates for Travel Planning
• Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review (2024)

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The 40 Best Gifts for Travelers from Day Trip Adventures to Long Vacations

Adventurous friends and family will appreciate these travel must-haves including wireless headphones, luggage organization tools, and more starting at just $6.

If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

As a travel writer and professional shopper, I’ll be the first to admit that the best present for a loved one who loves to explore the globe might just be a plane ticket. But we didn’t just give you the second-best gift idea for a traveler. After researching, testing, and consulting on gift ideas with an expert flight attendant and travel author, Best Products gave you 42 more too.

There are two main types of travel gifts: the practical and the aspirational, explains Nikki Vargas , Senior Editor of Fodor’s Travel and author of the memoir Call Me When You Land . For Vargas, a practical gift would be an item to “make a traveler’s journey easier and safer.” She suggests picks like a carry-on suitcase, toiletries holder, or even a personal safety alarm. “An aspirational gift might inspire wanderlust, like an armchair traveler book that sweeps you across the globe or map to start tracking your trips.”

I tend to opt for practical items that can reduce the friction of being away, but others may prefer gifts to inspire wanderlust or sweet sentimental commemorations of a beloved venture. My own recommendations as a hotel reviewer and digital nomad range from a blackout sleep mask that salvaged my sleep in a boisterous hostel to the portable TV stick that made a cold resort room feel homey when I needed it most.

Check out our list of best travel gifts starting at just $6 — before your giftee checks in to their next flight.

K. Carroll Harper Crossbody Bag

This adorable (and affordable!) small purse, named one of Oprah's Favorite Things , is perfect for traveling. Made of synthetic leather, it holds all the essentials, such as your phone, credit cards, and cash. Plus, it comes in a ton of colors and patterns and can be worn across the body or on your belt.

More: Great Gifts for Here She Won't See Coming

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Look, you certainly don't need us to explain why a lululemon bag is a notable gift to give. But in this case, it's more than just attractive. This Everywhere Belt Bag is designed for those who embrace their wanderlust or their daily routine, with a comfortable fit that can be worn crossbody or around the waist. Its water-repellent fabric is a fit for any adventure, whether a hike or a night out.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

It may not be the most romantic travel gift, but frequent travelers definitely are always in need of this travel essential .

This all-in-one adapter works in almost every country (you can easily change prongs with a flip of a switch), charges up to five devices at once, has a built-in safety fuse, and comes in shades like grey, rose gold, or white.

Knock Knock Pack This! Pad

Eliminate the stress of packing for your giftee with a thorough list that will help every traveler keep track of everything in their suitcase (or everything they always forget). The list is quite extensive, so they can get as thorough as humanly possible as they plan for practically any trip and leave fully prepared.

Knild Magnetic Wireless Charger for Apple Devices

Carrying a tangled mess of charging cords while traveling is a bigger pain than it should be, as is carrying multiple plug adapters if you’re traveling internationally. So if you’re buying for someone loyal to Apple products, this foldable charger is an incredibly useful gift. Its strong magnetic pull ensures a stable connection to your device, and it takes up very little room in a backpack or handbag.

More: The 12 Best Viral TikTok Travel Essentials on Amazon—Under $60

Veken Packing Cubes

For the traveler in your life who just can't seem to keep their suitcase in order, gift them a set of these discounted, durable, and lightweight polyester packing cubes available in 14 stylish colorways.

Packing cubes will compress their luggage so they can fill any suitcase to the brim while keeping their newly organized contents safe. Plus, the visible mesh fronts mean they can easily keep track of what’s stuffed where.

eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack

Of the thousands on the market, the Mother Lode is the best travel backpack around the $200 price point considering it's packed with useful features. It has everything a traveler needs for maximizing carry-on space, like internal compression straps for clothing, external side straps for larger items like a tripod or rolled jacket, a laptop sleeve, lie-flat pockets for travel docs, and tuck-away backpack straps so you can use it like a duffel bag.

The clamshell-style, suitcase-like zipper is also helpful if you need to unpack your bag during a surprise TSA security search.

Que Bottle The Collapsible Bottle

Staying hydrated during travel is pretty darn important, you guys. This water bottle is the absolute best for traveling because it collapses small to fit easily into your carry-on. Head to the water fountain after you're through security, expand it out to full size, and make sure to drink up!

ThunderBunnyLabs USA Photo Map

Our 50 states encompass a rich array of ecological, sociological, and cultural diversity. Here's a way for those travelers working their way through the USA to display their favorite photos from every state, highlighting what landmarks and hidden gems made each location stand out.

National Geographic 100 Places That Will Change Your Life

For over a century, the pages of National Geographic have provided stories and images about the far reaches of the globe, allowing readers to visit new regions, if just in their minds. Now, your intrepid traveler friend can use those same pages to inspire their next real-life trip, in this sprawling collection of life-changing destinations, from the iconic to the hidden gems.

Jet Set Natural Jet Lag Remedy Pills

Pills might not seem like the most appropriate gift for someone, but anyone who has experienced jet lag knows it's no joke. This convenient little package can even be wrapped up with tickets to a faraway destination where the time-zone change can really get to a person.

Compendium “Everywhere You Go:” A Guided Travel Journal

This thought-provoking travel journal is a great travel gift for recent grads taking their first big trips abroad or anything who appreciates the life-changing moments that can happen on the road. They don’t have to be a writer or journalist to appreciate the book’s thoughtful prompts on everything from their favorite views on vacation to lessons they’ve learned while traveling.

The book is slim and small, and can be used while traveling or after they get home.

AllBirds Tree Runners

AllBirds is the brand most associated with the idea of “one-shoe-to-do-it-all” while traveling, and no single shoe shows that off better than the Tree Runner. The packable shoes won’t take up much space in the recipient's bag, and the cushioning and grip make them well-suited to light hikes and treks.

And if that hike happens to be muddy, no problem: they can throw them in the washing machine when they get home. Bonus: they don’t scream “athletic shoe,” so wearers won’t get laughed out of that Parisian cafe like they may if they showed up in traditional sneakers.

Intenext Book Reading Light

As convenient as e-readers like Kindles are, some people just like the feel of paper pages. And for those people, reading using an airplane’s overhead light can feel like someone is shining a flashlight in your eyes.

If you’re buying for someone who reads actual books, magazines, or newspapers, an ultra-light clip-on book light is a great budget travel gift. It’s useful on planes and trains, but also if they want to stay up late reading in bed while their travel buddy gets some shut-eye.

Basu eAlarm Plus 130db Emergency Alarm

If you or a friend happen to be traveling somewhere that could be unsafe for any reason (be it because of people or wild animals), this little personal alarm is a smart thing to have with you.

When activated, it makes an insanely loud noise, scaring off potential danger, and is much more effective — and easier to travel with — than pepper spray. It's TSA-approved as well, so don't worry about bringing it through security.

‘Atlas Obscura, 'An Explorer’s Guide to the World’s Hidden Wonders’

There are a million and one travel blogs out there trying to tell you where to go and what to do there. It's hard to sift through it all. The first edition of Atlas Obscura was a best-seller, and it's only gotten better. The book includes 12 city guides, including a map and info on everything you should be doing when you get to your destination.

JMTcollectionsByMary Passport & Vaccination Card Holder

Travel in the modern world, particularly international travel, requires its fair share of crucial documentation. Yet, for some reason, the most crucial of those documents, passports and vaccine cards, are prone to damage and displacement. Help ensure your giftee isn't stranded without the paperwork they need with this simple, colorful passport and vaccine card holder, which helps keep their documents safe, secure, and easily accessible.

More: 15 Passport Holders That’ll Have You Planning Your Next Getaway

National Parks Explorer Map

Calling all nature lovers! This awesome map allows you to chart every national park you've visited using the included tree sticker kit and a corresponding list of parks at the bottom. Place a tree on the map after you visit for a creative way of charting and tracking all your adventures.

W&P The Carry On Cocktail Kit

Go ahead, take the edge off! For a boozy boost, this carry-on cocktail kit is the perfect gift for travelers. It comes in a variety of classic cocktail flavors and can be used to really kick the mini bottles of alcohol you can purchase on the plane up a notch.

Kelofon Travel Jewelry Case

Which jewelry-loving travel-mad gal wouldn't appreciate this portable jewelry box from Kelofon? She can keep all her favorite rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings organized and in one handy place. Plus, there's a small mirror, so she can check out her look.

Grace Smith is a writer, editor, and creative consultant who got her start on a book review blog she launched in the 7th grade — and still runs. Now, she writes commerce and affiliate content across PEOPLE, Real Simple, Southern Living, and Better Homes & Gardens at Dotdash Meredith, as well as moonlights at other publications. Grace covers commerce, travel, style, books, and lifestyle to start and is interested in anything strongly rooted in aesthetics.

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The 13 Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

W hen packing for a trip, you of course have to decide what to pack in your carry-on bag and checked luggage, including what clothing, toiletries and other essentials to bring. Having the right travel accessories can make your packing process and travels smoother. From noise-canceling earbuds to condensation-free water bottles, the travel editors and contributors at U.S. News have compiled a list of their favorite travel accessories that make every journey more comfortable.

S'well Stainless Steel Traveler

Staying hydrated while traveling is essential, so it's always a good idea to pack a reusable water bottle. This S'well travel bottle is made of stainless steel with triple-layer insulation. Featuring special technology to keep the exterior free of condensation and an ergonomic design, this bottle is ideal for travelers to put in their backpack or carry-on. The bottle is designed to keep cold drinks cool for up to 60 hours and hot beverages warm for 20 hours, making it the perfect on-the-go companion.

What our travel editors say: "I never fly without a refillable water bottle so I'm not at the mercy of in-flight service to stay hydrated. While it's not as large as other travel bottles, S'well's skinny design makes it easy to slide into my (usually overstuffed) purse or the side pocket of a backpack. The silicone loop attached at the top holds the lid when my hands are full, and water refills at the airport stay cool for the full travel day. I've used mine for four years, and aside from a few scratches, it doesn't show any signs of wear." – Elizabeth Von Tersch , Senior Editor

Price: $50 or less

Button Enhancement : Travel - S'well Stainless Steel Traveler

Lug Mini Swizzle Jewelry Case

This compact jewelry case is perfect for travelers who like to pack extra earrings, rings and small accessories. The case comes in a variety of colors, including metallic shades like silver and walnut (a warm gold), and has a light gray lining that makes it easy to see its contents. The interior organization maximizes space with five soft-lined sections for rings, hoop earrings or cufflinks; a removable mesh pouch; and a soft-lined pocket. The petite design and pliable exterior helps to save space in your travel bag.

What our travel editors say: "I got this as a gift and it's one of the very first things I get out when I'm packing for any trip. I always pack a pair of pearls, some statement earrings to dress up for evenings, and a necklace or two. Once I'm traveling, the ring slots are the perfect safe place to store my rings at night. I love the top handle, which makes it easy to grab out of your bag, and the colorful exterior makes it stand out in any space so I never leave it behind. Plus, it's just so cute!" – Rachael Hood , Senior Editor

Price: $33 or less

Button Enhancement : Travel - Lug Mini Swizzle Jewelry Case

Holii Daily Pill Organizer

This compact daily pill organizer allows quick access to your medications – which are vital to have on hand while traveling – as it can be easily tucked into a pocket, purse or backpack. Small but durable, the organizer features eight compartments: two large and six small. Its locked lids mean your pills will stay safe and secure even if you drop the container. The organizer is made with high quality food-grade plastic and is available in khaki, pink, purple and blue.

What our travel editors say: "As someone very prone to motion sickness, I needed a lot of different seasickness medications for my last cruise trip. This pill organizer securely fit everything I needed and more. It's also easier to pack than typical daily pill box dispensers that are too lengthy. Note: The included plastic accessory that looks like a guitar pick is for opening each of the compartments. It's a lifesaver for fingernails!" – Leilani Osmundson , Digital Producer

Price: $12.99 or less

Button Enhancement : Travel - Holii Daily Pill Organizer

Apple AirPods Pro Wireless Earbuds (Second Generation)

The Apple AirPods Pro wireless earbuds are the perfect travel companion for those who like to listen to podcasts or music, or watch videos on their phones or tablets while traveling. The standout feature of these earbuds is the noise-canceling capability, which is twice the strength of the first-generation AirPods Pro earbuds. These AirPods, which are resistant to dust, sweat and water, come in a small MagSafe charging case (USB-C) and stay charged for up to six hours of listening time (with noise-canceling enabled); if you use the charging case, they last for up to 30 hours of listening time. Touch controls on the side of the earbuds allow you to adjust volume and press pause or play, as well as mute, unmute and end a call. Four pairs of silicone tips come with the earbuds so you can choose the perfect fit.

What our travel editors say: "I was skeptical about moving on from my beloved and generic wired Apple earbuds but the AirPods Pro wireless earbuds have been an extremely pleasant surprise. The noise-canceling quality is exceptional; it's truly wild how loud an airport or plane is and how quiet it gets just by putting in the AirPods and using the noise-canceling feature. These fit comfortably in my ears and it's nice that the product comes with several silicone tip options so you can select the right fit for you. The sound quality of music or podcasts I listen to is great and I find I don't need to charge them that often even though I use them frequently. With more airlines also trending toward using Bluetooth technology for seatback entertainment, I think these AirPods are a great investment for any traveler." – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Price: $249 or less

Button Enhancement : Travel - Apple AirPods Pro Wireless Earbuds (Second Generation)

QuietOn 3.1 Sleep Earbuds

If you're looking for an alternative to Apple's noise-cancelling earbuds, these by QuietOn are compact and designed for sleeping with active noise cancellation (ANC) technology and passive noise reduction. Perfect for when you encounter thin walls in a hotel or late-night partiers on a cruise ship , these earbuds help to block out the noise to get a good night's rest. The company touts them as the world's smallest ANC earbuds, making them more comfortable than many other options, especially for side sleepers. They come with soft comfortable tips in four sizes. These earbuds also have a long battery life.

What our travel contributors say: "I never leave home without my noise-canceling earbuds when traveling. They're compact and one of the first items I put in my carry-on bag. They've made all the difference in getting a great night's sleep or staying awake and listening to sounds that you can't block out with other earplugs when staying in a hotel or sailing a cruise ship." – Gwen Pratesi , Contributor

Price: $289 or less

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Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

Worrying about your phone battery is the last thing you want to be doing on vacation. This Anker power bank is roughly the size of a cellphone, making it easily portable, and it can charge a single device four to five times. You'll even be able charge two phones at once with this power bank, since it has two USB ports. Anker also sells power banks for laptops and even magnetic batteries that can charge your phone without a cable.

What our traveler editors say: "I rarely step foot outside the house without my Anker portable charger. It's especially convenient for long travel days, so I can ensure my phone is always fully charged for displaying my digital boarding pass, playing music or consulting Google Maps. But even when I'm just relaxing at home or at the hotel, it's so nice not to be tethered to a wall outlet." – Catriona Kendall , Associate Editor

Price: $49.99 or less

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Apple AirTag

AirTags aren't the most exciting product Apple has released since 2021, but they've changed how many travel. A bit larger than a quarter, an AirTag allows you to determine the approximate location of an item and set up alerts if you become separated (about 30 feet), so it's perfect as a luggage tracker . The features prove particularly useful in an airport when you misplace your carry-on at the food court or want to track your checked bags after a tight connection. AirTags last about a year and use easily replaceable CR2032 batteries. (You'll find the same batteries in most car key fobs.) They also need an Apple product such as an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch, but alternatives such as the Tile Pro are also available for Android users.

What our travel editors say: "Apple AirTags alleviated travel stress I didn't know I had. Before I trek to the airport, I double-check the trackers in all of my bags, as well as in my wallet. Quickly confirming everything's location provides the peace of mind to rest easy in any terminal." – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Price: $29 or less

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Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

For any book lovers, traveling with a Kindle Paperwhite is a must. You can download and store thousands of stories, so you'll never run out of reading material mid-trip. Since a single charge can last up to 10 weeks, you might not even have to bother packing a USB-C charging cable. Super lightweight and waterproof, this e-reader also boasts a glare-free, 300 pixels per inch display that makes reading on the device feel like reading from pages of a book. There are even highlight and note-taking features, should you want to keep track of your thoughts while reading.

What our travel editors say: "No matter where I'm traveling or for how long, I always make sure to grab my Kindle before heading out. It's a great way to pass the time before boarding and during flights, plus it makes it easy to relax anywhere." – Christina Maggitas , Editor

Price: $139.99 or less

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Worlds of Wonder: A Coloring Book for the Curious

From a long flight to a lengthy layover, having something to focus on can help to pass the time. This coloring book has 80 pages of gorgeous designs, filled with rich imagination. Users will be able to color everything from houses to mushrooms to bicycles to flowers. The book is made from a cardstock-like material and measures 10 x 10 inches.

What our travel editors say: "Coloring is one of my favorite hobbies and this coloring book is my absolute favorite. I find that coloring especially helps to pass time on long flights since it keeps my hands and mind busy (and I don't check the time as much). If you decide to use colored pencils, buy the twistable kind so you don't need to worry about a sharpener." – Marisa Méndez , Senior Editor

Price: $17.95 or less for paperback

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BeeGreen Reusable Grocery Bags 5-Pack

These reusable grocery bags from BeeGreen are a great addition to any traveler's packing list. Not only are they a more sustainable alternative to plastic bags, but they are also machine-washable and can be easily folded up to fit into your backpack, purse or pocket. Although they are lightweight, the large volume bag can carry up to 50 pounds. This is due to their durable design, which is reinforced with bias tape. What's more, the bag can be folded into the attached mini pouch for easy transport.

What our travel editors say: "Whether I'm buying souvenirs or shopping for the toiletries that I've inevitably forgotten to pack, I frequently find myself in need of a bag when I'm traveling. These reusable bags are great alternatives to plastic bags; I especially love that they come with their own mini bag for easy storage. I usually clip mine onto a lanyard with my keys – this way I never leave home without it." – Alissa Grisler , Associate Editor

Price: $17.99 or less

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Magicteam Sound Machine

Whether you're traveling with little ones or just want to block out noise from the hotel hallway, this portable sound machine is a game-changer. Powered by USB, the Magicteam Sound Machine offers 20 non-looping sounds to soothe you and your travel companions to sleep, including white noise, brown noise, rain and a crackling bonfire. It also has 32 levels of volume. You can easily set it for continuous play or program it to stop after one hour or several; its memory function will automatically restore your previous settings.

What our travel editors say: "This sound machine is small but mighty. It works just as well (if not better) than the more expensive Hatch Rest sound machine our toddler has in his bedroom, and its compact size makes it so convenient for travel." – Amanda Norcross , Content and SEO Strategist

Price: $29.99 or less

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Aquasphere Defy.Ultra Swim Mask

One of the most compact swim masks available on the market today, the Aquasphere's Defy.Ultra Swim Mask small enough to throw into your beach bag or carry in your pocket. This mask is ideal for keeping water out of your eyes, snorkeling, and getting an up-close and personal view of the sea on vacation. Not only is the mask made to be comfortable and leak-free, but it also boosts underwater sight capabilities and makes it easy to see colorful fish and other wildlife.

What our travel contributors say: "I use this swim mask for all our family beach vacations since it's the only one I have ever owned that doesn't take up a ton of space." – Holly Johnson , Contributor

Price: $99.99 or less

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Wander & Perch Wander Wet Bag

These wet swimsuit bags by Wander & Perch are perfect for vacations that will include swimming in a pool or the ocean. Even though you may hang your gear to dry after a swim, your suit may still be wet when the time comes to pack your suitcase. The wet bag solves this problem by allowing you to store your swimsuit inside its own decorative, zippered pouch. The bags are machine-washable and come in a variety of fun designs.

What our travel contributors say: "This bag is such a great essential for travel because you can pack your wet swimsuit without getting your other clothes wet! And it comes in great patterns." – Sharael Kolberg , Contributor

Price: $38 or less

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You might also be interested in:

• Vacation Packing List: Top Essentials for Any Trip
• The Top Travel Gifts
• The Top Luggage Tags
• The Top Toiletry Bags
• The Top Packing Cubes

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

The Best Gifts for Travelers Who Have Everything

By Rachel Chang

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

They’ve been everywhere, they’ve seen everything, and their homes are living scrapbooks of their travels. Oftentimes, it’s those friends who are always on the road to far-flung places who are the most challenging to shop for. They may be into mindfulness, but they already have a singing bowl, purchased from a temple in Tibet. They may love games, but they bought their own hand-crafted mahjong set in Singapore . And when it comes to travel accessories , they've curated an arsenal of tried-and-true products that make their journeys seamless.

So short of sending them on another vacation, we talked to gifting experts—from party planners to the stars (who are well-versed in finding the best gifts for people who have everything) to gift bag creators (who put together swag bags for all the top award shows) and artisan market founders—who know just the kind of presents that have mass appeal. Below, 19 of their best gift ideas that will impress your most traveled—and hardest to shop for—pals.

“The N.I.C.E Pack is my new favorite travel accessory and gift for people who love to travel. It’s great for on the go because it stays close to your body and can hold your passport, money, vaccination card, lip gloss, airplane eye mask, and more. It also comes in so many colors for all your friends so it’s a fabulous gift. I’m obsessed, it’s so cute!” — Mindy Weiss, Mindy Weiss Party Consultants , whose clients have included Justin and Hailey Bieber, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi, and the Kardashians

“When you’re on a plane, everything is so dry; puffy eyes are often a problem when you land. I love using Knesko eye masks for the last hour of the flight to look your best on arrival. These are great gifts or stocking stuffers to help your friends look fresh and as if they’ve slept for hours before their travels begin.” — Weiss

“HP Sprocket Studio is a favorite of ours because you can print out photos to frame right at home. This is a fantastic, instantly gratifying way to take your favorite travel photos right from your phone to your home.” —Karen Wood, president of Backstage Creations, which creates gift bags for the Emmys, MTV Awards, and ESPYs

“For someone who has literally every travel accessory already, consider getting them something a little less tangible, like a subscription to the Calm App. Their guided meditations and soothing sounds can help ease you during a stressful travel day, and help you wind down to sleep for a long international flight .” —Wood

“Delsey luggage is one of our favorite go-to brands to package all the celebrity goodies into. The line is well-made, sleek, and stylish. I always get compliments on my Delsey pieces waiting at the luggage carousel.” —Wood

“My dad is always the most difficult person on my list, but he absolutely loved receiving a Theragun Mini. If your back needs some TLC after a long flight or road trip , this portable massage device is perfect to stow in your bag for some muscle relief.” — Megan French , party planner

“Even the most savvy travelers could use a garment bag upgrade. Whether you're traveling for business or a fun formal event, this sleek option will keep fancy outfits wrinkle free. The personalized monogram gives it a thoughtful touch.” — French

“Candles get a bad rep for being cliché gifts, but they can be fabulous presents if you choose the right one. Instead of a generic candle, transport your travel-loving friend to a five-star resort with this luxurious option. The packaging is so chic that you don't even need to wrap it.” — French [Editor's note: This candle is currently out of stock at Hotel Lobby Candle, but you can get a trio set of Hotel Lobby candles from Neiman Marcus .]

“My recipe for a great gift is an item that's fashionable and functional, and this backpack fits the bill. The modern monochromatic style is great for work or the weekend. Plus, it keeps you organized with several compartments and a padded laptop sleeve.” —French

“Give the gift of creative expression. A full year of the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan gives travelers everything they need to edit, transform, and share amazing photos—wherever adventures take them. With Adobe Photoshop Lightroom and Photoshop, even casual photographers can make their photos look more polished—at home or on the go, and on any device. The plan also comes with cloud storage so they can always get to their photos from anywhere. And Adobe has a ton of tutorials that make learning how to work the apps easy.” — Samantha Milo Haft, co-founder of On 3 Productions, which puts together celebrity and influencer gift lounges

“For the frequent traveler, I opt to gift one of our luggage tags, usually paired with a tote or pouch. Each luggage tag is handmade from woven materials by artisan women in Guatemala. Lauren [Conrad, Skvarla's co-founder] and I had the opportunity to meet with the group behind these products during a trip to Guatemala and loved seeing these come to life. These luggage tags are extremely durable and can stand the test of time to ensure that the jet-setter in your life is always prepared.” —Hannah Skvarla, CEO + co-founder, The Little Market

“I have friends in my life who love to document their travels as well as friends who are on-the-go for business trips. I can’t wait to surprise them with our new journals , which are naturally dyed and handmade through eco-conscious practices by artisans in India. When creating these journals with the artisan group, we chose to include a stamp of how it is made—a special touch for the gift recipient to remember forever.” —Skvarla

“[This is as] good as it gets for travelers. It's perfect for short weekend trips or as a carry-on when you’re heading home for the holidays. Its beautiful whiskey-colored leather is perfect for anyone on the list, and ABLE uses ethical manufacturing and sustainable employment to elevate the quality of life for women and children around the world.” —Harry Cunningham, co-founder and creative director at goodMRKT

“We love finding unique items that we know the most sophisticated traveler would like to use either on the road or when they return home. Coma Toes are slippers for the sneaker generation—and they're comfy on the plane and off." — Gavin Keilly, CEO of GBK Brand Bar , who has curated celebrity gifts for everything from the Golden Globes to Cannes Film Festival

“Let's face it, it looks like we'll be wearing masks for the unforeseeable future—and people will continue to find themselves digging aimlessly through their purses, pockets, and carry-on bags only to find they left their mandatory face mask in thloe car or dropped it on the floor. [So this is] the must-have stylish and practical accessory for any traveler. Busy Philipps, Sterling K. Brown, Tiffany Haddish, Zachary Levi, and Kelly Ripa all own BabyDish mask chains.” —Haft

 “Even those hardest-to-shop-for people on your list will be excited about joining a community of good people, great products, and exceptional causes when they receive a gift from goodMRKT. [This scarf is] perfect for people on-the-go—it is sustainable, biodegradable, and contains no harmful chemicals or additives. It will keep you warm while you’re flying, then be repurposed as a fashion scarf when you land. Ground-to-flight is the new day-to-night.” —Cunningham

“Whether staying in an Airbnb, RV, hotel, or a tent, these mini jars of high quality spice blends from Spiceology take up little space and pack a big punch of flavor—perfect for making delicious, easy meals while traveling. With this Ultimate Rub Collection you can also relive some of your happiest travel memories at home by recreating your favorite dishes and cocktails, with blends like Chile Margarita transporting you back to that beautiful beach in Mexico and Jamaican Jerk calling out the tastes of the Caribbean.” — Haft

“A great, affordable stocking stuffer for concerned travelers are disposable airplane seat covers. They come in packs of two and you simply toss them after the flight. Safety first!” — Weiss

“The Porto Vino Wine Purse is an amazing gift for anyone. They all hold two bottles of wine—or 1.5 liters of your favorite beverage—in a removable, easy to use pouch with pouring spout.” — Keilly

Every item on this page was chosen by a Veranda editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 22 Best Spa Gifts for Soothing Stress

These self-care products deliver relaxation every day in the comfort of home.

Who doesn’t love a day at the spa? Taking time to slow down and shift your focus to mental and physical wellness. Indulging in luxurious beauty treatments devoted to making skin glow, hair bounce, and nails shine. The stress of everyday life unwinding, and the responsibilities of home and work fading away for the moment. Walking out feeling rejuvenated.

These self-care products and spa gift sets allow your friends and family to replicate their favorite services or experience new ones. You can find facials in a bottle and massagers for the neck and back, feet, and eyes. A therapeutic mineral soak transforms their bath into a refreshing treat. Manicure and pedicure kits provide the essential tools for them to create a clean, smooth canvas for a barely there glossy finish or a bold matte color. It’s even possible to bring healing heat to them with a sauna blanket .

Help your giftee outfit the perfect spa bathroom, complete with waffle towels, an essential oil diffuser, and humidity-loving plants. Build your own spa gift basket with items such as luxury loungewear, cloudlike slippers, a jade roller, a dry brush, body oil, and hand cream, and encourage those you love to establish daily or weekly self-care rituals.

We’ve rounded up some of the best spa gifts here (warning: There so luxe, you might also want to grab a few for yourself).

The Best Self-Care Items to Put in a Spa Gift Basket

Body Restore Bloom Shower Steamers

Jolie Filtered Showerhead

Herbivore Coconut Milk Bath Soak

Recast their daily shower as an aromatherapy session with these essential oil tablets. The six-pack of spring botanical scents includes energizing citrus and calming lavender.

This stylish filtered showerhead promises to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants from water, healing dry skin and damaged hair as well as rashes and irritation. What a gift!

Organic coconut milk is the basis of this indulgent bath soak that leaves skin silky and deeply hydrated. The oils vaporize upon contact with water, so all your overworked friend has to do is lie back, close their eyes, inhale, and float away to the tropics.

Royal Craft Wood Premium Bathtub Tray

Whoever designed this sleek bamboo tray thought of everything someone might need when lounging in the tub. There’s a soap dish, tablet/book stand, candleholder, and wineglass slot. The water-resistant tray expands up to 43 inches and has silicone pads to keep it in place.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

All skin types could benefit from the four pieces in this gift set: Salts of the Earth body scrub to gently exfoliate, Undaria Algae body oil for a full-body glow, Anti-Aging body balm to firm, and Undaria Algae body butter to moisturize.

Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe

Inspired by its best-selling Super-Plush towels, Brooklinen’s Turkish cotton robe features wide sleeves with adjustable cuffs, pockets, and a belt and comes in eight solid colors and four striped patterns.

Conair Spa Headband

This absorbent terry headband is the perfect companion for makeup and skin-care routines. It keeps hair away from the face without pulling or leaving creases.

Vanity Planet Aira Ionic Facial Steamer

In just 15 minutes per day, 2–3 times a week, this facial steamer stimulates circulation and clears pores, making skin more receptive to other products and treatments.

Tata Harper Multi-Masking Set

Not sure of your giftee’s specific skin concerns? This gift set from natural skin-care brand Tata Harper has you covered with a mask for every need, plus a brush applicator. The Hydrating Floral mask with hyaluronic acid is for dry skin. The Resurfacing mask brightens dull skin. Deep cleanse with the Purifying mask, and battle breakouts with the salicylic and lactic acids in the Clarifying mask.

Augustinus Bader The Discovery Duo

Treat the one you love to two of Augustinus Bader’s groundbreaking creams. This duo, containing The Cream (lightweight and refreshing) and The Rich Cream (nourishing), lets them suit their skin’s unique and ever-changing needs.

Peauamie Eye Mask Set

This set of 30 pairs of undereye patches covers some of the most common complaints. Patches with 24-karat gold fade fine lines and reduce puffiness. The hyaluronic acid patches hydrate to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, and the rose extract patches erase dark circles.

NuFACE Trinity+ Sandy Rose Starter Kit

If your giftee is obsessed with the latest beauty tools and gadgets, they'll love using the NuFace Trinity, which uses microcurrents to shape and tone their face in minutes. After a few weeks of use, they'll notice blurred fine lines and wrinkles, as well as a more lifted and contoured appearance.

Diptyque Temple des Mousses (Moss Temple) Refillable Candle

Feel good about giving your eco-conscious friend this refillable candle dripping with the serenity of a Japanese Zen garden.

Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

No longer must you always play the role of massage therapist when your partner is carrying tension in their neck, back, or shoulders. Gift them this wearable massager with three speeds, gentle heat, and eight powerful rotating kneading rollers.

Mason Pearson Hair Brush

A luxe hair brush is not something that many people splurge on for themselves, but your giftee will absolutely adore receiving this one from Mason Pearson. Made from premium-grade boar bristle, it distributes natural oils and exfoliates the scalp for shinier, healthier, and more manageable hair.

WTHN Acupressure Mat Set

For the one who swears by acupuncture, this acupressure mat and pillow set blanketed in small spikes can help them relieve pain from the comfort of home.

Miko Foot Massager Machine

If your giftee’s job keeps them on their feet all day, this machine could be an answered prayer. It combines deep kneading, air compression, rolling, and heat therapy for a well-rounded massage that reaches every part of the feet while retaining ankle mobility. Their experience can be customized with a wireless remote.

Dr. Scholl's Women's Soothing Spa Socks

Slip into something more comfortable for me time with the soft yarns of these spa socks infused with moisturizing vitamin E and lavender. No shoes are required, as the soles have grippers to prevent slipping on slick flooring.

Soothing Eucalyptus Meditation Bath Set

Colleen Murray, the maker of this bath set, says, “At a low point in my life, baths were the only thing that made me feel good. I loved adding things to benefit myself even further. It was just what my overworked body needed, but I also always felt mentally uplifted after and would sleep well. I want everyone to experience that.” Her handmade kit contains a botanical bath soak, a wood wick candle and matches, immunity herbal tea, and three QR codes for 20-minute sound sessions.

Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase

A dermatologist-recommended silk pillowcase is less abrasive on delicate facial skin and hair, ensuring they wake up with fewer and less noticeable sleep creases, lines, and wrinkles.

Kathleen Penton is the copy/research editor for VERANDA. She writes about a wide range of topics, including gardens and shopping. 

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Things to Do in Lobnya, Russia - Lobnya Attractions

Things to do in lobnya.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Temple of the Divine Savior

2. Temple-Chapel of St. Matrona

3. Lobnya Park of Culture and Recreation

4. Chamber Stage, Lobnya Drama Theater

5. Hyperboloidal Water Tower

6. Lobnya Art Gallery

7. Palace of Sports Lobnya

8. Lake Kiovo Natural Monument of Federal Significance

9. Lobnya History Museum

10. Memorial Complex Zenitka

11. Kukly i Lyudi Theater

12. Monument Veteran 1943

13. Moscow Defensive Line 1941

14. Temple of Archangel Michael

15. Monument to the Children Prisoners of Fascism

16. Church of St. Philaret of Moscow

17. temple of the icon sporitelnitsa khlebov.

18. Mass Grave of Soldiers Zvonnitsa

19. povorot mall, 20. cyber arena storm.

21. Cultural Center Krasnaya Polyana

22. Chayka Culture Palace

23. Volshebnaya Solka

24. Patefon

25. Float Studio SAMADHI