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The 58 Best Gifts for Travel Lovers in 2024

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

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

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

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

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

Solo Re:Define Backpack

You can’t go wrong with a new travel backpack, and the Solo Re:Define Backpack earns our top pick as the absolute best laptop backpack in the game. It’s lightweight and stylish while still roomy enough to hold the essentials whether your gift recipient plans to use it as a carry-on bag or as a city bag while exploring a new town. It also has a built-in USB port and headphone jack for ease of use.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

The gift of a good night’s sleep on a red eye isn’t exactly something you can wrap in a bow and place underneath the tree — but the Cabeau TNE S3 Travel Pillow makes it possible. This is the best travel pillow in our book; it’s designed to attach to any headrest which helps keep the user’s head from dropping or moving around when sleeping. The air-like cushion is also super comfortable and cozy without being too hot.

Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner

If your giftee is on the go a lot, chances are they could use new carry-on luggage . The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner is our top pick when it comes to long-lasting and practical carry-on luggage. It’s aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly durable and is able to withstand packed travel schedules thanks to the polycarbonate design.

Away Travel The Compression Socks

Compression socks might not seem like the most exciting holiday gift at first glance — but trust us when we say that once your loved ones start flying with the compression socks from Away, they won’t want to go back. These are the best compression socks we’ve found not just because they’re stylish but also because they work well (see: help prevent swelling and discomfort) without being too tight.

Paravel Passport Case

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

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler

The Stanley Quencher has become everyone’s favorite emotional support bottle over the past few months — and it’s easy to see why. This aesthetically pleasing cup fits up to 64 ounces of their favorite beverage and promises to keep their drink ice cold for hours. It’s also available in a ton of fun colorways and patterns.

Boka Fresh on the Go

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

T-core Power Bank

The T-core Power Bank makes a great stocking stuffer — look how tiny it is! — for travelers who are constantly in search of a power outlet to juice up their devices. The compact 10,000mAh portable power bank is small enough to fit in your pocket and can fully charge a new iPhone 2.9 times with one charge.

Jamaica Vibes

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

Contiki Tour

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

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

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

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

Luxury hand cream is a great gift for anyone, but particularly for the frequent flyer. The L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream is very lightly scented (which is great for the plane), but it’s also incredibly moisturizing and rich in texture. It’ll serve as the hydration and comfort MVP during long, dry flights.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 16GB

Being a traveler and a voracious reader can be tricky — you likely don’t want to go bookless on the go, but who wants to lug several books from city to city just to make sure they’ve got reading material? Certainly not us, and that’s why the Kindle Paperwhite has become a non-negotiable. The ultra-lightweight device can store thousands of books in one spot and you can even download new content while traveling — so avid readers will never run out of material (or worry about going over the carry-on weight limit with books).

Mise 店 Udon Gift Set

Traveling to Japan changes you; once you’ve visited, you’ll want to return again and again. That’s why the Mise 店 Shoshi Watanabe Udon Gift Set is a major win for anyone who has traveled to (and fallen in love) with the country. The bundle includes everything your gift recipient will need to cook delicious udon at home, all of which has been sourced directly from Japan.

Lavazza Espresso Italiano

If they’re constantly posting throwbacks to their summer vacation in Italy, give them the gift of an Italian morning at home. The Lavazza Espresso Italiano tastes just like those shots of espresso you can guzzle at every corner cafe in Rome. Bonus points if you pick up a set of espresso cups to really set the mood.

SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

 Amazon

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

Jabra Elite 8 True Wireless Earbuds

It doesn’t matter if your gift recipient is a city or a wilderness traveler: everyone can use a reliable pair of earbuds to take on the road. The Jabra Elite 10 True Wireless Earbuds offer the same high-quality sound and design as much more expensive options, but the under-the-radar headphones come with a much more digestible price tag.

LARQ Bottle PureVis

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

Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair

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

Gonex Compression Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a game changer for efficient and organized packing, and the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes are our top pick for best packing cubes . The ultra-soft, lightweight ripstop nylon design simplifies packing and compresses everything from T-shirts and sweaters to socks and underwear, taking up way less space in a suitcase and making it easy to find specific garments without having to unpack completely.

Raytix RFID Money Belt

Travelers who take organization — and safety — seriously will particularly appreciate the Raytix RFID Money Belt. Our number one pick for the best money belt , this practical pouch is super comfortable to wear and is also large enough to hold things like earbuds, transit tickets, and other small travel accessories they may want to keep close by. It’s also available in a huge variety of fun colorways to suit every style

Intelligent Change Inc. The Five Minute Journal

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

The Alchemist

This famous fable by Paulo Coelho is an excellent gift for travelers (and aspiring travelers) of all ages. The Alchemist is one of those books that we’ve read time and time again when searching for inspiration. It’s a quick but impactful read that’ll inspire anyone to continue to work toward their goals and find their own Personal Legend.

Andobil Car Phone Holder Mount

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

Puffer Hug 418 Scarf

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

Slip Silk Skinny Scrunchies

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

Vinarmour Travel Wine Carrier

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

Smithsonian White Mineral Globe Paperweight

Smithsonian

The Smithsonian White Mineral Globe Paperweight makes for a stunning addition to a coffee table or desk. The hand-polished globe is crafted from a stunning combination of two kinds of green jade, lilac lepidolite, red stone, marble, and abalone, and it’s designed to pay tribute to the National Gem and Mineral Collection — one of the largest collections of its kind.

The Harmonist Travel Coffret

The Harmonist

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

Spirit Daughter Malachite Palm Stone

Spirit Daughter

If you’ve got a nervous traveler on your list (or someone who could use a little extra protection), consider the gift of a Malachite Palm Stone. Malachite is believed to ward off danger and fight off illness which makes it a great healing crystal for any traveler to keep in their carry-on or toiletry kit while traversing the globe.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

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

Tumi Leather Jewelry Case

The Tumi Leather Jewelry Case is a game changer for anyone who typically travels with their jewelry loose in their carry-on or cosmetic bag. The beautiful leather accessory is striking in its own right, but the interior makes it incredibly easy to keep all jewelry and accessories properly stowed and organized on the go. The suede interior is also super soft and won’t scratch or scuff delicate pieces.

Four Seasons Velvet Slippers

Four Seasons

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

Apple AirTag

Don’t let your loved one get stuck with lost luggage sans AirTag. This tiny gadget offers major peace of mind for anyone who has to check a bag (and it’s worth throwing one in a carry-on, too — just in case a gate check situation arises). The AirTag is no bigger than a quarter and pairs with iPhones to easily track and monitor the location of gear at all times — and it has actually helped people get their suitcases back faster.

Nurse Jamie Super Cryo Mini Massaging Orb

The Nurse Jamie Super Cryo Mini Massaging Orb is a frequent flyer’s best friend. The device works to increase localized circulation and reduce surface-level inflammation in the skin. It stays cool for up to six hours at a time which should be more than enough to get jetsetters through a red eye to Europe. The stainless steel device can also be used hot for a soothing under-eye treatment.

Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

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

Dagne Dover Tech Organizer

Dagne Dover

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

Lindsay Albanese Toptote Leather Hat Holder

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

Diptyque Travel Cleansing & Moisturizing Set

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

Tangle Teezer Compact Styler Detangling Hairbrush

This detangling hairbrush is a must-have addition to any cosmetic bag thanks to its compact design and convenient top cover. The brush combats knots and tangles without damaging the hair, but it’s truly the streamlined design that makes it so great for travel; your giftee won’t have to worry about squishing the bristles or getting anything stuck in the brush. Plus, the shiny holographic-inspired finish is very pretty to look at.

Baimei Jade Roller & Gua Sha Facial Tools

You’ve probably already heard about the wonders of a jade roller, but the gua sha is just as efficient. This set of two gives travelers everything they’ll need to depuff after long flights or nights out. Note that this set is also available in amethyst and rose quartz, should your favorite traveler prefer a different hue.

Tinggly Bucketlist Experience Collection

If you prefer to gift experiences over physical items but aren’t sure where or when your recipient’s next trip is, consider a Tinggly Bucketlist Experience Collection. The gift package allows them to choose from hundreds of different experiences to partake in around the world, from sandboarding in Abu Dhabi to a food tour of Istanbul.

Vasco V4 Language Translator Device

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

Pokoloko Harem Towel

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

Ugg Franca Hooded Travel Cardigan

The Ugg Franca Hooded Travel Cardigan was designed with travelers in mind. It’s ultra-cozy and comfortable, but it’s also incredibly easy to fold up and pack away when not in use. We love that it’s fitted like a structured cardigan so you can get away with wearing it from the plane and right into the city if you’re so inclined.

Fellow Carter Everywhere Mug

If your giftee is still traveling the world using disposable coffee cups, it’s time they’ve upgraded. The Fellow Carter Everywhere Travel Mug is a super chic reusable coffee cup that is particularly great for travel, as it has a leak-proof seal that prevents the cup from spilling everywhere when tossed into a carry-on. It also keeps beverages hot for up to 12 hours (and cold for up to 24), so travelers won’t have to deal with lukewarm coffee or water on even the longest travel days.

Vacation Luxury Shine Duo

You can’t go wrong with a selection of sun care products, especially if the traveler on your list tends to prefer warm-weather destinations. The Vacation Luxury Shine Duo offers a cheeky, oil-based take on sunscreen with high-quality ingredients and retro packaging that’ll keep beachgoers protected from the sun without actually smelling like sunscreen.

Babelio Mini Sound Machine

Light sleepers might struggle to fall asleep in a hotel, but the Babelio Mini Sound Machine makes it a whole lot easier. The tiny sound machine won’t take up any space in a carry-on, but the powerful white noise will be more than enough to lull your loved one to sleep, whether they’re in a noisy hostel or a too-quiet luxury suite.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

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

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Mesh Bag

Bloomingdale's

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

Conair Travel Garment Dual Voltage Steamer

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

Sidney Sleep Mini Travel Size Neck Pillow

Sometimes you just need the comfort of your own pillow to get a good night’s sleep, and this mini travel pillow will do just the trick. The travel-sized memory foam pillow is great for using on planes or camping trips, and the compact size means it can easily slip into a bag for easy carrying when not in use. Consider adding a cozy travel blanket to complete the set.

YETI Roadie 24 Cooler

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

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs

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

Native Union Universal Sling

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

Hotel Lobby Candle City Collection Trio

Hotel Lobby Candle

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

Conscious Coconut Coconut Oil Travel Ready Tube

Conscious Coconut

Frequent flyers and dry skin just go together, unfortunately — which is why it’s so essential to have heavy moisturizer on hand at all times. The Conscious Coconut Coconut Oil Travel Ready Tube is pretty much the best way to carry around ultra-moisturizing coconut oil without getting it everywhere. It’s pure but packaged in a convenient tube that makes application much easier than that of your standard coconut oil jar.

Metáfora Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Portugalia Marketplace

If you’re shopping for a frequent flyer who doubles as an excellent home cook, you’ll want to consider Metáfora Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This high-quality olive oil is imported directly from Portugal and offers a surprisingly spicy flavor, which makes it great for cooking Mediterranean dishes or simply serving with fresh bread and cheeses.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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The 31 Best Travel Gifts for Anyone With Wanderlust

Send them off in style with these thoughtful—and practical—picks.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

And: there's even more on the line when you're buying a travel gift. Giving someone a rolling duffle in a color they hate may bum them out. Giving someone a rolling duffle with wheels that break en route may put a serious damper on their vacation. Rather than wing it, read on for a lineup of travel editor-approved travel gifts for all the globetrotters on your list.

Looking for more great holiday gifts? Check out our picks for the best gifts for gamers , the best tech gifts and the best last-minute gifts .

Tripped Travel Gear Toiletry Bag Set

You can’t count on ample counter space in every hotel room, which is why buying a hanging toiletry bag is such a smart move.

This three-piece set features a detachable 3-1-1 TSA-compliant liquid bag, along with a zippered pouch that’s large enough to hold a pair of men’s flip-flops. There are multiple mesh pockets inside and an outer pocket for quick-grab items.

Mark & Graham Essential Tech Folio

Keep devices, chargers, and wires neatly stowed and organized inside this leather zip-around tech folio. It’s available in two sizes and four colors (both with enough space for a tablet and a smartphone) and plenty of pockets and slipcases on both sides. Plus, shadow-print monogramming costs an extra $12.50.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

This compact universal travel adapter will charge up to six high-powered devices in more than 150 countries and weighs only 5 ounces. It features four USB ports and a 15-watt USB-C port, plus it offers overload protection.

Espro Ultralight French Press

This portable 16-ounce coffee press weighs only 7.4 ounces and features a microfilter to ensure no grit or sludge ends up in a cup of joe. It’s made of stainless steel and BPA-free plastic, and its double-wall vacuum insulation keeps contents piping hot. There are six colors to choose from, including this eye-catching green.

EverSnug Travel Blanket

Unless they’re a business-class traveler, scoring a blanket isn’t always a given. So give them this cozy gift, which has a pass-through sleeve to attach it to a carry-on’s handle.

The plush polyester blanket tucks inside the zippered case for storage (which can double as a pillow), and there’s also a carabiner to keep it handy in flight. The two-piece set comes in five colors, all with the cute airplane and suitcase stitched on front.

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

It’s always a good idea to throw a fold-up bag into your carry-on for unplanned purchases. This one from Paravel is ultra-lightweight and zips into an integrated pouch that packs flat. It’s made of 22 upcycled plastic water bottles and is available in six colors, with monogram options ranging from $15 to $35.

Apple Beats Fit Pro With Noise Cancelling

Noise cancellation is a must while traveling, and these cute earbuds will do just that. They also deliver excellent sound and their flexible wingtip design makes the comfortable to wear for a long flight. They come with two years of AppleCare+ to boot.

Paravel Packing Cube Quads

This attractive set of four packing cubes from Paravel will keep toiletries, gear, and clothing organized. They’re lightweight nylon, made of repurposed plastic bottled and feature contrast piping, vegan leather zipper pulls, and a clear panel on top to see what's inside.

TRX All-in-One Suspension Trainer Bundle

This all-in-one suspension system equipment set lends itself to getting in a full-body resistance-training workout anywhere. It includes a main suspension strap with handles and two anchor straps, plus there are locking loops and hand and foot cradles for standing- and floor-based exercise.

The set comes with a 35-page workout guide and includes access to live virtual studio classes thought the app. All the components pack into a small drawstring pouch.

Malin + Goetz Travel Kit

Tuck this colorful collection of travel-sized products in a carry-on to pass on whatever random-brand products are in the hotel bathroom. The set includes five 1-fluid-ounce tubes of Malin + Goetz’s hair, body, and face products and comes in a clear slide-lock pouch.

Welly First Aid Kit

Everything from adhesive strips in fun patterns to ibuprofen is packed inside this bright, appealing first aid tin, with a snap closure to ensure contents stay secure. All the components are individually wrapped and neatly organized in sections, and the kit is available in several sizes and styles, depending on what your giftee has in store for their trip.

Garmin Instinct Outdoor Watch

Garmin’s ultra-popular entry-level Instinct GPS watch comes in a range of styles and colors and boasts a three-axis compass and barometric altimeter. There’s also a trackback feature to help with navigation and preloaded training activity profiles.

Mark & Graham Passport Case and Luggage Tag Set

This vegan leather passport case and luggage tag set comes in five colors, with tons of shadow-printed monogram options. So even if the days of dressing up to travel may be long gone, your luggage will look good and you’ll always know where your important documents are.

Pinch Provisions Hemergency Kit for Men

There are 30 must-have travel essentials tucked inside this mini dopp kit. You’ll find bandages, pain reliever, and other first-aid gear, grooming tools, and all those small items to save you in a pinch, like extra cufflinks and shoe shine towelettes. There’s also a Minimergency Kit for Her .

Joby GorillaPod Tripod and Phone Mount

Forget the selfie stick and opt for this versatile gadget to get the best vacation shots. The flexible tripod and phone mount are compact and support devices up to 2.2 pounds, and the locking phone clamp mount rotates to portrait and landscape positions. The removable ball head can also fit on standard-size tripods.

Etekcity Luggage Scale

This may be more of a stocking stuffer than a gift to put under the tree, but it’s an important one. Prevent your travel-loving friend from getting slapped with extra fees for overweight baggage with this pocket-size luggage scale. It has a 110-pound weight capacity and a highly accurate digital sensor, plus it comes in a bunch of fun colors.

JETech Laptop Case with Small Bag

This well-designed laptop sleeve features a tuck-away top-handle and zippered outer pocket, plus it’s paired with a small wrist strap bag to stash a smartphone, a charger, and other accessories. There’s a top-loading zipper to accommodate laptops up to 14 inches, while the inside is lined with protective foam and soft flannel.

Anker PowerCore Slim Portable Charger

It’s a rookie move to travel without a power bank. Anker’s 10,000-mAh portable PowerCore Slim combines a 65-watt wall charger and a 10,000-mAh portable charger in one compact package. It features two USB-C and one USB-A port, and it weighs less than a pound.

Comrad Compression Socks

Compression socks are essential for preventing swollen lower legs and feet during and after a long flight. Comrad’s stylish options for men and women include this classic striped pair, along with more than a dozen other options if your giftee prefers something more muted.

Herschel Charlie RFID Card Case Wallet

An RFID-blocking wallet is another essential to protect sensitive credit card information while traveling. Herschel’s Charlie card case is a popular pick for its slim design and style, featuring multiple slots and a top sleeve, plus the brand’s signature striped liner.

Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics , where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you'll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Stocking Stuffer Travel Gifts

Wild socks by crazy dog t-shirts.

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

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

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

Travel Cutlery Set

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

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

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

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

Self-Care Face Mask

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

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

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

Soap Leaves

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

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

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

CHECK PRICE ON:

Laundry Detergent Leaves

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

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

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

Massage Ball

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

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

Best Travel Gift Ideas Under $50

Sleep mask & ear plugs.

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

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

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

Waterproof Phone Pouch

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

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

Travel Charm Keyring

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

Travel Size Watercolor Palette

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

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

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

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

Microfiber Travel Towel

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

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

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

Bar Shampoo and Conditioner

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

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

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

Travel Journal

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

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

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

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

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

Cell Phone Camera Clip-On Lens

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

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

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

Best Travel Gifts Ideas under $100

Polaroid camera.

Polaroid cameras are no longer a thing of the past! 

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

Camera Strap

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

Camera Cleaning Kit

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

Travel Hotel Sheet or Sleeping Bag Liner

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

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

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

BeFree Water Filter Bottle

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

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

Exercise Resistance Bands

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

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

Best Travel Gift Ideas for Her

Hidden pocket infinity scarf.

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

Pacsafe RFID Cross Body Bag or Travel Purse

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

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

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

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

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

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

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

SHOP WOMEN’S:

SHOP MEN’S:

Travel Pants

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

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

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

VIVAIA Shoes

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

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

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

Best Travel Gift Ideas for Him

Cocktail mix kit.

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

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

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

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

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

Hanging Toiletry Bag

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

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

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

Travel Security Money Belt

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Gift Ideas for Couples

Airbnb gift cards.

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

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

Travel Challenges Card Game

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

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

Ticket Stub Organizer

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

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

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

Travel Snacks

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

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

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

Best Gifts for Someone Traveling Abroad

Universal outlet adaptor.

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

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

Passport Holder

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

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

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

Eurail Global Pass

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

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

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

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

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

Scratch Off Map

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

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

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

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

PacSafe Camera Bag: Anti-Theft Daypack

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

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

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

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

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

Thin Fanny Pack

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

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

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

Best Gifts for Someone Who Travels a lot for Work

Packing cubes.

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

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

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

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

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

Laptop Sleeve

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

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

Lumbar Support Cushion

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

Folding Yoga Mat

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

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

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

Mini Travel Steamer

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

Travel Backpacking Pack

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SHOP FAIRVIEW WOMEN’S:

SHOP FARPOINT MEN’S:

Best Travel Accessory Gifts

Travel blanket.

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

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

Travel Neck Pillow

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

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

Compression Socks

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

Suitcase and Shoe Deodorizers

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

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

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

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

First Aid Kit

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

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

Best Travel Gadgets & Tech Gifts

Noise canceling headphones.

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

Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

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

Tech Accessories Organization Bag

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

Portable Charger

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

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

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

Laptop Stand

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

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

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

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

Luggage Scale

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

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

Best Luxury Travel Gifts

Swiss gear carry-on suitcase.

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

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

Airport Lounge Access

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

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

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

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

Yeti Travel Mug

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

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

Foot Hammock

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

Best Unique Travel Gifts

Necklace with photo projection.

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

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

Monogrammed Duffel Bag

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

It also helps distinguish their bag on the luggage carousel. 

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

Personalized Leather Luggage Tag

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

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

International Snack Subscription Box

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

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

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

ID and Medical Bracelet

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

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

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

Best Travel Books to Give as Gifts

Kindle (e-reader).

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

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

The Best American Travel Writing Series

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

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

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

The Island of Sea Women: A Novel

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

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

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

What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding

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

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

The Lonely Planet Travel Guides

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

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jodelle Marx

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

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

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Best Van Life Gifts

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Best California Gift Ideas

Best Christmas Gifts for Parents

Best White Elephant Gifts Under $20

Best Travel Shoes for Women

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

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31 Clever Travel Gifts Under $100 You’ll Want to Keep for Yourself

Give your friends and family travel accessories they’ll actually use..

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At $25 for a four pack, these TSA-approved bottles of Explorer Cold Brew are great white elephant gifts or stocking stuffers.

Courtesy of Explorer Cold Brew

To crib a line from William Morris , the 19th-century British designer, you should never give a gift that you do not know to be beautiful or believe to be useful. Thankfully, AFAR’s favorite travel gifts not only combine substance and style but also include another important element of gift-giving: good value. From a packable duffel made from recycled water bottles to a cheeky luggage tag, here are 31 travel gift ideas that cost under $100.

This bag has a Mary Poppins–like capacity and can fit a day’s worth of essentials including your wallet, keys, phone, earbuds, and a book.

Courtesy of Uniqlo

1. Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag

Buy now: $20, uniqlo.com

Uniqlo’s viral Round Mini Shoulder Bag is seen on travelers everywhere from London to New York. It’s a popular pick for good reason: It’s made with a dirt-resistant nylon fabric, fits daily essentials without being too big, and can be worn on the shoulder or as a crossbody. Choose from neutral beige and black as well as colorful shades of yellow and purple.

This travel-size first aid tin can be refilled and reused.

Courtesy of Welly

2. Welly Quick Fix First Aid Kit

Buy now: $8, getwelly.com

For cuts, scrapes, bruises, and other mini-emergencies on the go, Welly’s Quick Fix First Aid Kit is a portable tin filled with fabric bandages in two sizes and three packets each of antibiotic ointment and single-use hand sanitizer. It makes a great stocking stuffer.

3. Beis Mini Weekender Bag

Buy now: $98, beistravel.com

The Beis Mini Weekender can be used as a personal item or as an overnight bag with room for a laptop, toiletry bag, and a spare outfit. Plus, it has a separate shoe compartment to keep dirty footwear away from clean clothes. It’s available in more than half a dozen stylish shades like olive green and maple brown.

This laptop case is built like your favorite outdoor gear—durable and waterproof.

Courtesy of Matador

4. Matador Laptop Base Layer

Buy now: $60, matadorup.com

From reusable toiletry bottles to packable beach blankets , Matador makes some of the most durable travel accessories out there. This padded laptop case is no different. Suitable for 13- to 16-inch laptops, it comes with an inner drybag liner that can be rolled over and secured for waterproof protection. Plus, there’s an external pocket to store a charger and a mouse.

Get this travel journal for the writers in your life.

Courtesy of Papier

5. Papier Travel Journal

Buy now: $38, papier.com

This hardback travel journal is equipped with 96 pages of prompts, games, a packing guide, and room to document up to six journeys. It also has an illustrated map of the world to color in as you go.

6. Aesop Arrival Travel Kit

Buy now: $39, aesop.com

Add some luxury to your loved one’s toiletry bag with Aesop’s Arrival Travel Kit, which includes four travel-sized bottles of the Aussie brand’s fan favorite shampoo, conditioner, body cleanser, and balm, in refreshing citrus scents.

Coziness is key this winter.

Courtesy of Bombas

7. Bombas Gripper Slippers

Buy now: $45, women’s, bombas.com ; men’s, bombas.com

Nobody wants to pack a full pair of slippers when they travel, but cold feet can put a damper on a cozy cabin getaway . Regular socks may suffice in a pinch, but this pair of slippers comes with special grippy bottoms to prevent slipping and sliding. Also available in youth, toddler, and baby sizes , starting from $18.

Don’t worry about your personal item sliding off your roller bag ever again.

Courtesy of Cincha

8. Cincha Travel Belt

Buy now: $40, cinchatravel.com

These colorful belts allow travelers to secure any type of personal item to a suitcase handle so it doesn’t slide off while maneuvering through the airport. Here’s how it works: Simply slip the elastic loop of the belt over the handle of your carry-on and snap its buckle around the front of your personal item. It’s made with vegan leather accents and is adjustable to 45 inches to accommodate even the most overstuffed tote bag. Plus, for every belt sold, Cincha donates 100 airline miles to Miles4Migrants to help reconnect migrant families.

This beanie and glove set for kids made Oprah’s Favorite Things list in 2023.

Courtesy of Amazon

9. Roq Innovation Headlightz Kids LED Beanie and Glove Set

Buy now: $36, roq-innovation.com ; $30, amazon.com

Great for après-ski s’mores by the fire or a post-sunset family snowshoe hike, these beanie-and-glove sets made Oprah’s 2023 Favorite Things List . The coolest feature is the beanie’s built-in rechargeable LED headlamp, which can be adjusted to three different brightness levels (including an emergency blue and red strobe). You may recognize Roq Innovation founder Raquel Graham from her successful stint on Shark Tank , and you can tell she’s a mom from the gear’s design: Her products are made to not be itchy or bulky, and the Headlightz series comes in five vibrant colors (purple, orange, blue, green, red) that practically look like candy.

10. CalPak Car Organizer

Buy now: $98, calpak.com

A road trip essential, CalPak’s Car Organizer is equipped with three compartments to keep clothing, snacks, and games organized. The container can go in the backseat or in the trunk and has handles for easy transportation in and out of the car.

The Rumpl NanoLoft travel blanket packs down to the same size as a water bottle.

Courtesy of Rumpl

11. Rumpl NanoLoft Travel Blanket

Buy now: from $85, rumpl.com

Know someone with a red-eye flight booked? The Rumpl NanoLoft Travel Blanket is the closest you can get to bringing a sleeping bag on an airplane—minus the bulk. When stuffed into its included carry sack— just like a packable jacket —the puffy blanket is the size of a Nalgene water bottle and weighs only 0.7 pounds. Use its “Cape Clip,” a simple loop and clasp on two corners, to secure the blanket loosely around your neck so it doesn’t slip off your shoulders while you’re sleeping. This also means you’re free to use your hands to sip tiny bottles of airplane wine or adjust your seat-back movie screen without sacrificing any coziness.

This luggage tag is useful, yet cheeky.

Courtesy of Genuine Fred

12. “Tripping” Luggage Tag

Buy now: $10, genuinefred.com

This luggage tag is a trifecta of gift perfection: It’s useful, beautiful, and just plain funny, too. The pastoral scene emblazoned with the word “TRIPPING” is the work of multimedia artist Wayne White, who’s also known for his Emmy-winning art direction on Pee-wee’s Playhouse in the late ’80s. He’s designed a similarly saucy passport wallet , if you’d like to complete the set.

This dopp kit opens up wide so you don’t have to dig for your toiletries.

Courtesy of Bellroy

13. Bellroy Toiletry Kit Plus

Buy now: $65, bellroy.com

This toiletry kit has a smart zippered design that allows you to open the bag wide and easily grab items. It can be wiped clean and has ample storage space, including a separate compartment for your toothbrush.

This waterproof duffel from Rains comes in the metallic blue seen here, as well as black, gray, and pink.

Courtesy of Rains

14. Rains Hilo Weekend Bag Small

Buy now: $95, us.rains.com

Made from an eye-catching metallic material that’s also highly water-resistant, the Rains Hilo Weekend Bag Small can fit overnight essentials with 18 liters of storage space. This bag also has a detachable shoulder strap and comfortable webbed carrying handles.

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

Photo by Hannah Rosa Lewis-Lopes

15. 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 these 1.7-ounce or 3.4-ounce bottles from Ries, a Black woman–owned brand. The Mini Duo Starter Set comes with a pair of 1.7-ounce bottles that are equipped with a locking system to ensure a spill-free experience.

The Go Pouch Set comes in a variety of fun colors and patterns.

Courtesy of Baggu

16. 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 Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty on it are particularly fun.

This clever device allows you to watch movies on airplanes with wireless headphones.

Courtesy of Twelve South

17. Twelve South Airfly Pro

Buy now: $48 (was $55), twelvesouth.com ; $55, 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 your headphones. (It also works as an AUX IN adapter in a rental car.) It has a 16-hour battery life and is roughly the size of a matchbox.

A little dab goes a long way.

Courtesy of Blue Lagoon Iceland

18. BL+ the Cream

Buy now: $85, skincare.bluelagoon.com

Dry airplane air wreaks havoc on your skin. Prevent that by layering on an ultra rich face cream like the BL+ the Cream from Blue Lagoon Iceland, which is made with microalgae and silica sourced from the same geothermal source as those famous blue pools. The travel-friendly 15-ml pot may be pricey—but a little goes a long way and makes for a luxurious gift.

Dogs deserve holiday gifts, too!

Courtesy of Springer Pets

19. Springer Classic Dog Travel Bottle

Buy now: $25, springerpets.com ; amazon.com

If your favorite travel companion is your pet, you’ll want to invest in this ingenious water bottle, which was featured on Shark Tank . Made from BPA-free plastic, it’s a drip-free way to keep them hydrated without having to pack a separate bowl for your flight or road trip. The 22-ounce bottle has a built-in bowl on top: Squeeze to fill the vessel with water and let your dog drink, then release to allow the water drain back into the bottle section below. The bottle also comes in mini (15 ounce), flip (20 ounce), and growler (44 ounce) sizes, all with attached carabiners for easy carrying.

The mini Cabana vanity case sells for $75.

Courtesy of Paravel

20. 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.

The labels on top of Cadence Capsules are magnetic and can be customized, so you’ll never lose track of what’s inside.

Courtesy of Cadence

21. Cadence Capsules

Buy now: from $14, keepyourcadence.com

Made from recycled ocean-bound plastic, these capsules from AAPI-owned brand Cadence also help eliminate the need to buy miniatures of your favorite travel toiletries. Simply dispense up to 2.75 ounces of your favorite face wash, moisturizer, etc. into each capsule from the larger bottle you keep at home. They’re seriously leak-proof, too. (I found them upside down in my dopp kit after checking my bag recently and not a drop had spilled.) Sold in sets or individually in three different sizes, each hexagonal capsule magnetically attaches to the others so you can build a honeycomb of sorts.

The Away Jewelry Box is available in black, blue, pink, and red leather.

Courtesy of Away

22. Away Jewelry Box

Buy now: $85, awaytravel.com

Traveling with jewelry doesn’t have to be a tangled nightmare. This smooth leather boîte from hard-shell luggage maker Away is cleverly designed with a flat panel for storing earrings, a padded cord for rings, and slip pockets for keeping necklaces separate. Chunkier earrings and bracelets can be stored in the center.

This sleek portable charger is ideal for those who hate sorting through tangles of wires.

23. Anker Magnetic Battery

Buy now: $55, amazon.com

Every traveler needs a powerful portable charger in their tech kit. This one delivers its juice wirelessly to all models of iPhone 12 and newer and magnetically attaches to the back of your phone, so you can use it on the go. It also features a built-in foldable kickstand so you can watch videos on your phone while it charges. When the charger needs recharging itself, just plug it in with a USB Type C cord.

This travel mug is road-trip ready.

Courtesy of Yeti

24. 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.

Packing is way easier with these compression cubes.

Courtesy of Thule

25. 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. Our newest 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 quarter-size gift will prevent headaches over lost bags in the future.

Courtesy of Apple

26. Apple AirTag

Buy now: $28, amazon.com

Travelers who are staunchly Team Checked Bag need an Apple AirTag tucked into their stockings. This Bluetooth tracking device is the size of a quarter and can be stowed away in luggage and tracked through Apple’s Find My network (just like the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods). Lost bags will be a thing of the past.

The Trtl Travel Pillow is also available in a smaller size for kids.

Courtesy of Trtl

27. Trtl Travel Pillow

Buy now: $50, trtltravel.com

Can you put a price on a good night’s sleep on an airplane? Yes, if you pick up a Trtl Travel Pillow . Ergonomically designed to prop your head up using a lightweight padded frame wrapped in fleece, this $50 invention provides neck support without the bulk of a traditional travel pillow .

28. Kikkerland Earbud Cleaning Kit

Buy now: $10, kikkerland.com

A practical stocking stuffer, this travel-sized tin is equipped with everything needed to give earbuds a well-deserved deep clean—including soft bristle brushes, cleaning swabs, and wipes.

With a collapsible heel, these Teva camp shoes are perfect for taking on and off quickly.

Courtesy of Teva

29. Teva ReEmber Camp Shoes

Buy now: $80, teva.com ; rei.com

Teva ReEmber slip-ons are ideal travel shoes. Thanks to a collapsible heel, they can be worn either as a snug sneaker or a chill clog everywhere from TSA security lines to cozy campfires.

Even if you customize the Paravel Fold-Up Bag with an embroidered monogram, this gift still comes in under $100.

30. Paravel Fold-Up Bag

Buy now: $75, tourparavel.com

Made from 22 recycled plastic water bottles, Paravel’s ultra-light nylon bag collapses and zips down neatly into a small pouch when not in use. It’s a suitable gift for both notorious overpackers who always need a spare bag to bring home souvenirs, as well as for minimalists searching for a new weekender that takes up virtually zero closet space. That said, it holds so much more than you’d expect .

Each travel-size bottle has 200mg of caffeine to get you through any early morning flight.

31. Explorer Cold Brew Travel-Size Bottles

Buy now: from $25, explorercoldbrew.com

Between bitter beans and suspect water , the coffee served on airplanes is never satisfying. Thankfully, LGBTQ-owned Explorer Cold Brew scaled down its bottles of single-origin cold brew coffee concentrate to a travel-friendly two ounces and sells them in gift packs of four bottles. To enjoy good coffee at 30,000 feet, simply mix a two-ounce bottle of the cold brew concentrate with water (or milk) over ice and enjoy. For every box of cold brew purchased, Explorer Cold Brew funds clean water access for someone in need through Charity: Water for an entire month.

This story was originally published in 2021 and is updated annually. It was most recently updated on November 3, 2023 to include updated information. Nicholas DeRenzo contributed reporting to this article.

Pack Like a Pro: 45 Travel Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed

Whether you are traveling across the world or around the block, it’s essential to be ready for any adventure that awaits. Nothing spoils the fun faster than a dead phone battery, a broken suitcase wheel, or an exploded bottle of sunscreen. Fortunately, with the right tools on hand, you can make every excursion worry-free. Whether you’re looking for a gift for a travel lover in your life or are stocking up on your own travel essentials, we’ve got you covered.

From clever gadgets to stylish accessories, this hand-picked collection of travel must-haves will upgrade your adventures and make travel effortless.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Please read our full  disclosure policy   for more information.

Table of Contents

Useful Travel Gifts: Essential Electronics

When it comes to practical travel gifts, smart gadgets are foolproof. Beyond being smart travel gift ideas, they are great for everyday life. Even during those humdrum periods when you rarely do more than commute to the office, many of these everyday essentials will come in handy.

1. The One Thing Every Person Needs: A Tiny Pocket-Sized Power Bank

A 10000mAh charger will power your phone, earbuds, or tablet in a flash. We especially love this model because you can throw it in your pocket and it has magnetic charging.

Buy your extra small power bank here .

2. Luxury Travel Gift Ideas: Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones

When it comes to electronics for travel lovers, nothing beats noise-canceling headphones. While most of us have some kind of headphones, they probably aren’t delivering concert hall-quality sound while completely silencing the crying baby sitting in front of you on the plane.

For an ultra-chic style and premium sound, it’s all about the Sony WH-1000XM5. Treat yourself or that someone special today .

4. Gifts for the Outdoor Adventure Travelers: Waterproof Phone Case

From the beach to the boat to the pool, a waterproof phone case that can float is a true must-have item. To protect your phone, go for the best of the best with a floating fully waterproof phone case that works for most phones and has a handy lanyard.

We love this Pelican hi-vis yellow two-pack that will keep your phone safe anywhere and everywhere.

3. Must-Have Travel Gadget: Ultra-Compact Size Portable Speaker

Maybe you’re listening to a podcast while you get ready in the hotel bathroom. Perhaps you’ve found yourself having an impromptu party on the beach. Maybe you’re just cleaning the house. Whatever the case might be, you deserve more than the tinny sounds of your phone.

Waterproof and small enough to fit in your pocket, we love the JBL Go 3. The sound quality is top notch and it comes in a range of fun colors. Grab yours here .

5. Travel Gadgets Worth the Investment: Wireless Hotspot

One of the most important things to do before traveling abroad is to make sure that you can use a SIM card abroad. Using a mobile hotspot router means that you can get affordable and reliable internet access anywhere in the world. Even if your phone is locked to a network (which many are!), you can still get online.

Buying a local SIM card with data can be as cheap as $10/month so it’s well worth investing in a hotspot that allows you to get online without losing access to your phone number or having to carry a second phone.

We love the RoamWiFi for its long battery life and reliability .

6. International Travel Essential: Universal Power Adapter

Rather than getting an adapter just for the next country that you are going to, upgrade to a universal adapter. It’ll save you time and money in the long run, especially if you opt for a model with USB and USB C ports.

For the ultimate travel must-have, go for the TESSAN International Plug Adaptor .

Gifts for Digital Nomads

For the digital nomad in your life, whose office is anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection, finding the perfect gift is all about bringing together practicality and tech-savvy ingenuity. Here are a few gifts for remote workers that tick all the boxes.

7. Tech Lover Travel Essentials: Cable Organizer

Even the most minimalistic, lightest packer among us probably has a messy pile of cables and chargers. For digital nomads who need to recreate a workstation on a regular basis, this can be extra annoying. Fortunately, a cable organizer can save the day. 

A perfect gift for anyone who has more than a single item to charge (which is pretty much everyone these days!), buy the perfect fit-it-all electronics travel cable organizer here .

8. One Thing Everyone Needs: A Laptop Sleeve with a Laptop Stand

While most travelers have a decent laptop sleeve, far too many people are living without a laptop stand. Though laptop stands are often forgotten, they are actually a key investment in good remote work ergonomics and preventing neck pain. 

A smart laptop sleeve like the HYZUO Laptop Sleeve Case with Stand makes working anywhere easy and comfortable.

Travel Gift Under $25

As easy as it is to break the bank, some of the best gifts for travelers on every budget are more affordable than you might think. Here are a few low-cost gifts for travel lovers that are sure to be a hit.

9. Help Prevent Accidents with Water Shoes

Anytime you are at the beach or in the water, it is a good idea to have water shoes. From keeping your feet protected on rocky beaches to protecting yourself from dangerous falls. Every adventure our traveler needs good quality water shoes that fit well. We love these comfortable and practical water shoes .

10. Stay Organized While Traveling: Packing Cubes

You can eliminate the stress from traveling by staying organized. Learning how to use packing cubes will help you take stock before you go (and prevent you from forgetting anything). Upgrading your vacuum bags/ packing cubes to compression packing cubes will not only keep your bags organized, but it’ll allow you to fit more inside of your suitcases.  

To nab the best of the best, go for the Gonex Extensible Storage Mesh Bags Organizers .

11. Best Travel Gifts for Anyone: Upgraded Travel Pillow

Forget neck pillows! If you are looking to get good quality sleep on the go, upgrade to the best travel pillow. We are talking about those inflatable airplane pillows that offer real support. The Kimiandy Inflatable Travel Pillow will completely elevate your airplane travel experience.

12. How to Sleep During a Long Flight: The Ultimate Travel Blanket and Pillow Combo

To get comfortable on a long flight, bring the ultimate carry-all Urnex Tour Travel Pillow and Blanket Set Neck Pillows for Airplane Sleeping . This cozy memory foam travel pillow and ultra-warm blanket is the perfect upgraded gift for the travel lover in your life.

13. Unique Gift for Travel Lovers: Personalized Luggage Tag

A nice personalized luggage tag provides peace of mind and can also be a stylish way to spot luggage. Our fellow aviation nerds will love a custom take on the classic “Remove Before Flight” tags. The Men Personalized embroidered luggage tag is a cute gift for globetrotters of all ages.

14. Stay Organized While Traveling: Smart Luggage Add-On

If you’re anything like us, you probably feel like a total mess at some point during every trip. You knocked the lid off your coffee and it’s leaked all over your hand. You are reaching into your bag for the tenth time, convinced you’ve lost your phone. Save the travel lovers in your life from this stress! 

We are obsessed with the Remot Luggage Travel Cup Holder . This hands-free drink carrier fits two cups or anything else that you want to have handy on the go.

15. Deliver a Good Quality Travel Water Bottle

As much as we love the everyday metal refillable bottles and cups, a collapsible water bottle is far more travel-friendly. You can toss it in your bag to refill everywhere from the water station at the airport to Roman fountains. Buy the collapsible filter water bottle in every color and size for the on-the-go people in your life.

16. Give Them a Gift to Take High-Quality Travel Pics

Ditch the selfie stick and learn how to take better selfies. For upgraded travel photos, reach for a good quality portable tripod. The ultra-practical KINGJUE Tripod Stand works with your phone, DSLR camera, or tablet.

Travel Gift Under $100

Whether you’re shopping for the seasoned adventurer or the aspiring globe-trotter, you can give them a gift they’ll cherish for less than $100. Here are a few of our top travel gifts for friends and family.

17. Ultra Useful Travel Gifts: High-Quality Ear Plugs

Whether you’re dancing at a concert, trying to relax on a plane, or working in a cafe, earplugs are far more useful than you might realize.

Loop earplugs have completely changed the game with a range of earplugs for every situation from calming your anxiety to getting a good night’s sleep when your hotel room is located above a noisy street. Here are the three options (and, yes, getting all three is actually really useful and not over the top at all).

• Quiet : Great for getting a good night’s sleep on plane
• Experience : Protect ears at concerts
• Engage : Stay relaxed while traveling

18. Affordable Luxury Travel Essential: Travel Sheets  

There is something about sleeping in a bed that has been shared by hundreds… or thousands…  of people before you that is not so comforting. If you have a travel-loving friend who is a bit of a germaphobe or maybe likes a certain thread count, treat them to the Cozy Silk Sleeping Bed Liner . Whether you put them out in a hostel, a campground, or a five-star hotel, they’ll instantly make any homesick traveler feel right at home.

Essentials for Active Travelers and Adventurers

Choosing the perfect gift for active travelers and adventurers is all about reliability. Think durable travel gear, compact gadgets, and innovative outdoor accessories. Here are a few of our favorites to get you inspired.

19. Easy Travel Gift for Men, Women, and Kids: The Ultimate Windproof Umbrella

Not everything has to be an unforgettable gift! Sometimes people need practical presents that they can cherish and use all of the time for years. A repel windproof umbrella will keep you dry, warm, and cozy in Thai monsoons and soggy trips across the parking lot.

20. Affordable Gift Everyone Needs: The Quick-Dry Travel Towel

From gym rats to beach lovers, anyone and everyone could use a quick dry travel towel. While it can be a bit of a bland gift, the premium quality and trendy look of the Sun Cube microfiber towel make it a fun foolproof gift.

21. Game-Changing Gift: Travel Day Back

Maybe we are partial to anything pocket-sized, but there is nothing like an ultra-small bag that folds out into a daypack. The Gonex Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack is the perfect gift for anyone who is looking for a quick and easy grab-and-go bag. 

Gifts to Stay Healthy While Traveling

Keep them safe with these ingenious gifts that add a safe net underneath even the highest flying adventures.

22. Practical Gift: Travel First Aid Kit

Whether you are looking for gifts for family travel or just want to stay responsible on your own expeditions, a travel-sized first aid kit is a must. Toss it in your bag and keep another one in your car.

Grab a super practical and smart travel-sized first aid kit for a gift that will regularly save the day.

23. Stay Comfortable on Long Flights: Trendy and Comfortable Compression Socks

Probably the most overlooked aspect of flying internationally is the wearing of compression socks.

A good pair of compression socks can prevent painful swelling during long travel days and can also help prevent long-term problems caused by frequent travel. These fun yet functional compression socks are a must on long-haul flights.

24. Sleep Well While Traveling: Sleep Masks

Forgot the old-fashioned scratchy cotton sleep mask that never fit well. Upgrade to a silk face mask that blocks light and has an anti-aging perk. The Fleur & Yang Silk Sleep Mask for men and women will help you get to sleep anytime, anywhere.

25. Stay Hydrated While Traveling: Self-Cleaning and Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

While it would be amazing to carry a refillable water bottle everywhere and just fill it up anytime, that’s not always realistic. In many places, the only choice is questionable water from the tap or an endless stream of plastic water bottles. Enter the LARQ Bottle to rescue ! This is the perfect gift for absolutely anybody.

Gifts to Stay Organized When Traveling

When you’re struck with wanderlust, it is all about finding a way to organize the chaos so you can stay sane even during the most nail-biting adventures. Here are a few gifts that’ll make that easier.

26. Avoid Overpacking with Luggage Scales

Be strategic while weighing your bags before you get to the airport. It’ll help you avoid surprise fees and give you the chance to spread out the weight among different bags (without all the stress of doing it on the airport floor!). 

Opt for the reliable, high-quality Etekcity Luggage Scale for trustworthy measurements. 

27. Prevent Overpacking with a Clothesline

One of the most overlooked packing secrets is so simple: re-wear your looks! Rather than packing a different outfit for every day, plan to wash things on the go. Whether you are on a long trip or camping, washing your clothes will make life much easier.

Bring a travel clothesline so you can quickly clean your clothes and have them ready to go again in no time.

Travel Gift Ideas for Women

For the adventurous and free-spirited woman in your life, look to practical and stylish fixes that will make her excursions effortless.

28. Upgrade Your Travel Wardrobe with a Travel Jewelry Organizer

The best way to upgrade your travel outfits is with great accessories. Having a good travel jewelry organizer means that you can look chic every day while living out of a suitcase.

29. Practical Women’s Travel Gift: Security Scarf 

The Zero Grid Infinity Scarf with Hidden Pockets is a travel gift idea for the fashion lover in your life. It’s a stylish decoy and is a bit more sophisticated than a simple travel belt. Most importantly, it is a place you can tuck away your valuables and have them completely out of sight.

30. Give the Perfect Carry-On Backpack 

Knowing how to pack efficiently is the key to stress-free travel. Packs like the Sinaliy large travel backpack for women make that easy. With a dedicated pouches, you can fit everything you need in a carry-on bag to save time and cash.

Travel Gift Ideas for Men

For the modern explorer and adventure enthusiast in your life, go for guys’ travel gifts that will make it easy for him to be ready for the next adventure anytime anywhere.

31. Pack Quickly and Efficiently with a Smart Toiletries Bag

Guys, put down the plastic bag! Upgrade your travel gear with the Elviros toiletry bag . This will keep you organized while preventing spills and messing in your suitcases.

32. The Perfect Carry-On Bag for Guys 

Got a guy in your life who is still using your tattered high school backpack for travel? Upgrade him to the MATEIN carry on backpack .

Cool Travel Gadgets

Elevate the travel experience for your globe-trotting friends and family by exploring a range of cutting-edge and ingenious devices designed to make their journeys smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable.

33. Travel Charger: 3-in-1 Wireless Charger

The UCOMX Nano 3-in-1 wireless charger makes it easy to charge your iPhone, AirPods, and iWatch all in one easy piece. This cool gadget packs flat and is perfect for use on the go.

34. Smart Eco-Friendly Travel Gadget: Solar Charger

Whether you are hiking, camping, or just looking for an eco-friendly travel charger, this solar charger 38800mAh Solar PowerBank is an essential travel accessory.

35. Save Money on Luggage with a Pillow Bag

As airlines make checking-in a luggage increasingly more expensive, using your neck pillow for extra storage has become a popular social media travel hack. Why carry around a bunch of stuffing when you could fill your pillow with clothes and other things that you’ll actually use on your trip? Check out the brilliant ​​ TUBE Pillow for a game-changing travel solution.

Travel pro tip : If you’re more interested in adding extra luggage space than having an extra pillow, fill up your neck pillow with cozy socks, a warm scarf, and all of the other essentials that you will use on the flight so they are ready to go when you need them.

Travel Safety Essentials

Safety is paramount, and these thoughtfully curated items are designed to empower and protect your loved ones as they explore the world.

36. Avoid Credit Card Theft by Traveling with a Smart Wallet

With the increase in contactless technology, so too comes the increase in data scams. Help protect your traveler from digital pickpocketing with this genuine leather RFID wallet that blocks thieves from scanning credit cards when on the go.

37. Stay Safe at Hotels with a Personal Security Door Stop Alarm

A door-stop security alarm is a perfect travel gift for women or solo travelers. This door security device is similar to a door stopper, but the alarm will sound when pressure is applied to it by an opening door. The door stop also prevents the door from being forced open. Great as a backup plan to help the traveler in your life rest easy.

Unique Gift Ideas for Travelers

Look beyond the basics for an unforgettable gift that they will cherish for years to come.

38. The Ultimate Travel Souvenir: A Travel Map

Help the traveler in your life commemorate their adventures with a scratch-off travel map. This beautiful golden map will remind them where they’ve been and might even give them ideas for where to head next!

39. Creating Memories: Travel Journaling

When you want to create lasting memories, look beyond the endless photo albums. A travel journal is a great way to immortalize every adventure and is truly a gift that can be cherished for a lifetime.

40. Chic Coffee Table Book Gift for Travel Lovers

The Assouline coffee table books have become a social media darling and it’s easy to see why. With beautiful illustrations of locations all over the world, you can build a gorgeous collection or nab that one special book of a dream destination.

41. Travel Essentials: The Perfect Luggage Set

There are many luggage set options out there, but very few of them are as practical and durable as the BagSmart Luggage set . We adore their three-piece set that is perfectly sized for each piece to fit inside of the other.

Travel Books & Guides to Help Inspire Their Next Trip

For the avid wanderer and armchair traveler alike, these pages hold the power to transport their mind and spark their imagination.

42. Travel Guide Gifts 

If you are worried about what items your friend or family member may already have, then a travel guide is always a safe travel gift idea.

Travel guides are excellent as they can inspire countless adventures and give useful advice on their next bucket list destination .

Classic travel brands like Lonely Planet , Fodors , Moon , and Rick Steves’ guidebooks are always a great gift for the travelers in your life. Find more travel guides here!

43. Gifts Books to Inspire Travel

For the person who is always dreaming of their next trip, give them a classic travel book to inspire them. Here are some popular favorites:

• 50 States 5000 Ideas
• National Geographic Journeys of a Lifetime
• 1,000 Places to See Before You Die
• The Bucket List: 1000 Adventures Big & Small
• Ultimate Journeys for Two: Extraordinary Destinations on Every Continent

44. The Good Old Guaranteed-to-a-Hit Standby: Gift Cards

One thing that is always well appreciated by travel lovers is gift cards or vouchers. Gift vouchers allow the receiver to use the card’s value to purchase experiences, accommodation, or services. Don’t know what to give your well-seasoned traveler? Check out these gift cards and vouchers below.

• Hotels.com Gift Card
• Southwest Airlines Gift Card
• Starbucks Gift Card
• Amazon Gift Card
• Audible membership – gift unlimited reading and audiobook listening on any device
• Or try Amazon Prime 30-day free trial for yourself!

45. Best Gift of All for Travelers – The Gift of More Adventures!

Give the gift of experience! Create lasting memories that the special people in your life will never forget by planning a Miami trip that will knock their flip-flops off! Here are a few essential Miami experiences that are sure to dazzle.  

• Little Havana Walking Tour with a Local : Easily one of the best neighborhoods in Miami, you can experience the best of Little Havana with a local at your side to give you an insider’s perspective on what makes this place so special. 
• Full 24-hour Slingshot Rental : For a true Miami bucket list experience, look no further!
• Electric Bike Tour in South Beach : To see all the best South Beach has to offer , hop on a bike and ride down the endless beaches of this beautiful city.

Final Thoughts

From innovative gadgets to safety essentials, there is something out there for everyone and every adventure that they might take. Whether you are shopping for a digital nomad, an outdoor enthusiast, or a globetrotting girl boss, finding the perfect travel essentials is all about being creative and thinking outside the big box retailer. 

Looking to make the most of your Miami travel experience? Follow us on Instagram for tips on the hottest spots and coolest hideaways.

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The 40 Best Travel Gifts for the Coolest Frequent Flyers

Thoughtful presents to take wherever they go.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Sure, engines become more fuel-efficient and in-flight experiences involve better tech, but travel gadgets have evolved too. Improved luggage , travel shoes , dopp kits , and packing cubes make the journey about as enjoyable as the destination. Itineraries change and random adventures ensue, but you can rely on good travel items like these to make that work trip or vacation all the better.

So, if you're looking for a great gift for the traveler in your life, look no further than this list. We've got travel gifts for every kind of nomad, from kiddos to Grandpa and everybody in between. And we're not just dealing in suitcases and travel wallets . No, the best travel gifts do way more than that. The best travel gifts heighten the experience and bring a bit of that familiar comfort from home along with you.

What do we mean? We're talking about gifts that will get some serious use and accrue a lot of frequent flier miles. For example, a sophisticated packing cube that separates clean clothes from dirty laundry ( Eagle Creek's Clean/Dirty Cube ) or a phone mount that attaches directly on to your tray table on the plane ( Perilogics' Airplane Phone Holder Mount ). And if the adventure needs an adventure, there are even rental companies like Polaris that can set one up with that vehicle (snowmobile, ATV, autocycle) they've always dreamed of driving.

Gift the traveler in your life something special. Read on for the best travel gifts in 2023.

Best Gifts for Men | Unique Gifts for Men | Best Gifts for Wives | Best Gifts for Dad | Best Tech Gifts | Best Fitness Gifts

Venom Venom Go

Travel can be stressful, not just on the mind but on the body. That's where a good massage comes into play, soothing you to the core. Turns out you can get a pro-grade massage while away from home with this high-functioning gadget. Best, it throws heat and is about the size of a wallet.

Twelve South AirFly Pro Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

Smart travel involves being practical. And it's a lot easier to be practical with this bluetooth wireless audio transmitter. Simply plug it into the audio jack on the plane and send that sound wirelessly from the source to your ear buds.

Perilogics Airplane Phone Holder Mount

Does the traveler in your life need a stocking stuffer? This phone holder mount is just the thing, engineered to hang on to a device and clip onto the tray of your airplane seat. That translates to non-stop entertainment at 30,000 feet.

Read more: Best Stocking Stuffers

Philips Sonicare Battery Toothbrush

Say goodbye to travel hygiene with cords and spare chargers. This smart toothbrush is battery powered and comes with a slick travel case.

Vuori Austin Hoodie

Traveling and a good hoodie go hand-in-hand (or, arm-in-sleeve). Away from home, people want familiar comfort in their clothing and items that pack easily. Check and check with the Austin Hoodie, made of performance stretch terry and offering an athletic fit.

olukai Ulele

Built for the beach lover, these flip flops with arch support offer style and beach-y traits, like sliding on with ease and floating when dropped in the water. They grip well, offer tremendous comfort, and evoke just enough class that you can sport them off indoors as well as out.

Manta Sleep Sleep Mask

Cozy, adjustable, and breathable, this sleep mask set will set the traveler up with the same caliber of sleep they get at home anywhere they go. The mask is virtually weightless while allowing no light through, meaning a great snooze.

Mezzanine Cali Backpack

Good travel backpacks are functional while great ones offer a bit of luxury. This one is of the latter category, touting a fashionable build with sleek pockets and gussets with hidden magnetic snaps.

Read more: Best Travel Bags

Anker Portable Charger

A great travel gift does not have to break the bank. Proof? This portable charger, which will keep devices powered up no matter where the destination is. The charger is slim but built tough, meaning it can handle all the drops and other oopsies that come with travel.

Read more: Best Gifts Under $25

Away The Medium Suitcase

The word suitcase can conjure up heavy containers and colossal matching sets. This carry-on luggage is redefining the category, featuring a classic look with all the modern amenities. Travelers will admire the durable shell and the unique compression system on the interior, which allows for maximum packing efficiency.

ARMANI Acqua di Giò Eau de Toilette Travel Spray

What makes a great travel cologne? A great scent, naturally, but also a packable sprayer that can destination hop with ease. Bonus points for delivering a fragrance that offers its own sense of travel, evoking a breezy cliffside in the Mediterranean.

Mack Weldon Nova Travel Kit

Got a traveler friend who's still toting around that dopp kit they grew up with? Time for an upgrade. This one is made from recycled plastic, comes with a smart rubber base that can grip the counter, and even includes four refillable recycled bottles for those toiletry liquids.

Buck Mason Carry-On Jacket

We love a heavy jacket but they don't travel well. Enter the Carry-On Jacket, inspired by a blazer and softened for both feel and packing pucposes. Now you can look sharp and have some warmth without being weighed down by heftier garment.

Read more: Best Travel Blazers

Spigen Wallet S

Bulky wallets are the nemesis of any good traveler. This sophisticated option offers security via RFID blocking and enough space for 12 cards, all while appearing incredibly sleek and minimalist.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Clean/Dirty Cube

The traveler will appreciate this pack-it cube, which separates the dirty laundry from the clean with a floating divider. It makes packing a breeze, keeps odors at bay, and is extremely lightweight, making it very, very portable.

Olympus 8x25 WP II Binoculars

The elder traveler in your clan will appreciate these petite binoculars. They offer stellar magnification without filling up your daypack and fold up nicely. Plus, the waterproof body can withstand whatever the weather throws at you.

Read more: Best Gifts for Grandpa

Cadence The Originals - Set of 6

So many things the traveler needs most—the toothbrush, the sub block, the fragrance—are thrown into the bag last minute. Keep grooming items organized in style with this innovative storage set. The honeycomb design makes it stackable while the size is up to the user, as the whole thing is customizable.

Aeropress Go Travel Coffee Press Kit

For the traveler who loves a good cup of coffee and won't settle for what's at the hotel, this is the gift of gifts. Bring that lauded roast with you, whether it's for an extended camping trip or a faraway conference.

Read more: Best Gifts for Coffee Lovers

Patagonia Men's Baggies™ Shorts - 5"

Ready for anything, these stellar shorts from Patagonia are made for the nomad. Equipped to take on the beach, river, camping trip, or brunch table, they dry quickly and look way better than most multifunctional shorts.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9

Traveling with the kids is always a logistical riddle but things can be simplified with a good tablet. This one will keep the little ones busy when you need to focus on something else. Plus, it's a great mechanism for creating art or engaging in educational games or shows.

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51 Best Gifts for Women Who Love to Travel

By Lauren Dana Ellman

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.

With seemingly endless options to choose from, finding the perfect holiday present for the women in your life is by no means an easy feat. These guidelines can help narrow it down: The best gifts for women are those that combine their individual interests with functionality, ensuring your recipient will not only enjoy the gift, but also get great use out of it. To make the shopping process a little less stressful, we compiled 51 of the best gifts for women who love to travel, and then further sorted them by category. Whether her day-to-day and on-the-road interests gravitate toward food , tech , wellness , beauty and skincare, or fashion, we’ve scoured the internet to uncover the holiday gifts she'll love and put to regular use—and no, we wouldn’t blame you if you ended up snagging one or more for yourself.

Find the best gifts for her by category:

• Luggage & bags
• Beauty & skincare
• Clothing & shoes

Tech essentials

• Home & kitchen

Luggage, bags, & travel accessories

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

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

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

Shown in beige

Beauty & skincare products

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

Come wintertime, when the weather is cold and dry, hydration is the name of the game—which is where scented hand creams and nourishing skin salves come into play, making for excellent gifts. Additionally, a non-greasy, ultra-moisturizing body oil can easily elevate your giftee’s skincare routine—especially one with a crisp citrus scent reminiscent of the serene Sicilian countryside.

Meanwhile, beauty enthusiasts of all ages will appreciate tried-and-true essentials. These run the gamut from nourishing lip balms to a botanical-infused hair care set that’s TSA-approved, to a restorative hair mask to combat dry and dehydrated strands, which happens all too often when globetrotting.

Travel-friendly clothing & shoes

When it comes to fashion, comfort is key—and some things just never go out of style. This holiday, stock up on travel-friendly wardrobe staples , including cute joggers , Traveler -favorite leggings , cashmere basics , and ultra-soft crew necks and cardigans that are ideal for layering. Alternatively, present your giftee with one of several other loungewear staples, all perfect for plane rides . In anticipation of cold weather , gift them a warm coat or a blanket scarf they can wrap themselves in all winter long. Last but not least, don’t forget about footwear. When it comes to gifting shoes, options abound, from supportive walking sneakers to stylish boots (bonus points if they’re waterproof!) to versatile ballet flats , which, yes, are officially back in style.

Tech-loving travelers are sure to love the savvy gifts shown below. A portable sound machine—which easily clips onto backpacks , diaper bags, and totes—makes it easy for kids and adults alike to snooze (almost) anywhere. Wearable tech, including Oura Rings and Apple Watches, is a functional and, frankly, pretty neat gift, as it allows travelers to track biometrics like heart rate, step count, sleep, and more. Meanwhile, a quality pair of noise-canceling headphones will come in handy on plane, train, and car rides filled with screaming children or chatty seatmates. Your giftee can also enhance their in-flight entertainment set-up with a Bluetooth wireless transmitter, which lets them pair their wireless to their seatback entertainment system without purchasing another pair of wired headphones while in the air. Finally, a tech storage case will help them keep their wires and cables organized and tangle-free throughout the duration of their trip.

Home & kitchen items

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

Gourmands will especially love one of these food-centric gifts, which lets them savor the flavors of the world from the comfort of home. For breakfast and brunch, they can feast on bagels and lox from NYC staple Russ & Daughters, while Laudurée’s French macaroons make the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. Similarly, sweet tooths can indulge in Belgian chocolate courtesy of Neuhaus; the Chocolate Duets Table Box lets chocoholics create their own praline by mixing and matching from one of six chocolate bases paired with their choice of six toppings. Those craving a sweet taste of Italy can dig into Fiasconaro’s Italian Bakery Cake, which features candied citrus peel and Sicilian saffron. Created in collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana, the tin itself is a work of art. If your giftee likes to try a bit of everything, snag them a snack box filled with Turkish delights, or, for something savory, a gourmet assortment of Spanish cheeses and meats will do the trick.

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

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

Useful Travel Gifts That Travelers Will Actually Love!

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Searching for the best travel gifts? Ones that are both practical and loved by the recipient? A present that a traveler will truly appreciate? Our Travel Gift Guide can help! As full-time travelers (on the road and in the air since 2014), we are tuned into what travelers need and want. On our list of the absolute Best Useful Travel Gifts, you will surely find the perfect present!

Best Useful Travel Gifts

There are some items that every traveler needs – like luggage and toiletries – and then there are some things that travelers want, which make the experience of travel so much better. To help you find the ideal gift for your traveler, we have included both kinds of presents in our Useful Travel Gifts Guide.

Looking for something a little quirky? Check out our massive list of 100+Unique Travel Gifts !

Useful Travel Gifts Every Traveler Will Love

To help you find exactly what you are looking for, we sorted our list of Useful Gifts for Travelers into categories: Packing, Tech, Clothing, Toiletries, Items for an Upcoming Trip and – the very best travel gift of all – the Gift of Travel! 

We offer multiple practical travel gifts under each category. Additionally, our list of travel necessities gifts range in price – so whether you are looking for a stocking stuffer or luxury travel gifts, you will likely find it here!

Most Useful Gifts for Packing

Packing may be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary part of travel. Make the process a little bit easier with these functional and useful travel gifts…that are also gifts travelers will actually want!

#1 Luggage: Best Gifts for Travelers

We are kicking off our Travel Necessities Gifts list with a travel requirement: Luggage. Having something to pack clothes in is essential for every traveler…and there are ample choices when it comes to luggage.

First, you need to determine if the recipient would like a backpack or suitcase – both are fantastic traveler gift ideas, but most travelers have a preference. 

Travel Backpacks

Personally, we like backpacks because it keeps our hands free when we are (inevitably) rushing through an airport or train station. Backpacks also make great gifts for European travelers because rolling a suitcase over uneven cobblestone lanes is simply annoying and a hassle. Osprey backpacks and Cotopaxi backpacks are top choices. 

Suitcase for Travel

However, I have to admit that I envy those traveling with sleek, hard-side spinner suitcases. Luggage by Travelpro makes fantastic gifts for people who travel for work. Their suitcases are top-quality with incredible features, like USB power ports (on select bags) and RFID-blocking pockets.

Not looking for a hard-side suitcase? Travelpro makes a full line of luggage, including briefcases and backpacks that are designed specifically for business professional travelers. 

#2 Passport Holder: Useful Gifts for Travelers

While not 100% necessary, having a passport holder helps protect a traveler’s most precious document – and is one of the best presents for traveling overseas. The simple and classy leather passport covers  are good gifts for travelers, but you can add a special touch by giving your traveler a personalized passport holder . 

Another popular passport cover is one that doubles as a wallet . We think this is a good gift for people traveling abroad from the United States because it helps to keep all of your most important things (passport, money, credit cards) in one convenient place. 

#3 Travel Wallet Document Organizer: Favorite Travel Gift

I don’t know what I would do without my document organizer! It keeps everything nice and tidy…and zipped up so that I’m less likely to lose important items along the way.

This RFID Blocking Travel Wallet is the perfect gift for a practical traveler because it is zippered and has numerous slots for a passport, currency and credit cards. Another feature that makes it a handy item for travel is a durable strap, so it easy to hold on to and it can even be clipped inside a larger bag.

#4 Anti-Theft Day Pack: Practical Gifts for Travelers

Pickpockets and thieves prey on travelers. What better time to snatch a wallet than while the person is awing over sights or trying to figure out transport in a crowded city? But an anti-theft travel bag stops sticky fingers from grabbing what doesn’t belong to them, which is why they make perfect gifts for someone traveling abroad.

My Timbuk2 Messenger Bag has anti-theft measures (like multiple inside zippered pockets) and we sometimes carry small zippered backpacks (with an outside water bottle pocket) that are fantastic for keeping our valuables safe.

That said, Travelon is a brand that makes a full line of anti-theft purses and bags. The bags by Travelon get rave reviews – and are great gifts for first-time travelers and seasoned adventurers.

Other anti-theft travel items gifts are a money belt (that you conceal under your clothes), a bra stash (which is one of the useful travel gifts for her) and boxers with a zipper pocket (ideal for men). All of these help to keep valuables out of the reach of thieves.

#5 Packing Cubes: Best Travelers Gift Ideas

Packing Cubes are one of the best travel essentials gifts! When we purchased our Eagle Creek Packing Cubes , we thought they were an unnecessary splurge…now we cannot imagine traveling without them. Not only do they help to organize, but they also compress – meaning we can pack more clothes without taking up more space.

We own many products from the line – and highly recommend buying them as gifts for frequent travelers. These packing superstars are lightweight space-savers that every traveler must have. Mix and match the different styles to create the ultimate useful travel gift set!

Read more about How Packing Cubes Make Travel Easier .

#6 Luggage Tag and AirTags: Top Travel Tips Gifts

One of the most necessary and useful travel items, a luggage tag helps to easily identify your suicase when it is rolling off the belt at baggage claim…or more importantly, when luggage gets misplaced by an airline or hotel staff.

That is why it is essential to have a tag securely attached to the luggage, like a TUFFTAAG travel ID bag tag . The metal luggage tags, which are an ideal gift for someone traveling, are secured with stainless-steel cables and come in a variety of colors.

In addition to luggage tags, savvy travelers have recently been securing AirTags inside their bags. In the unfortunate case that the baggage does go missing, with AirTags it is easy to track down its exact location!

#7 Luggage Scale: Useful Gifts for Vacation

Having to pony up extra cash at the airport for overweight bags is a terrible way to start vacation! A digital luggage weight scale from Etekcity is an affordable and fantastic travel gift!

The scale can easily weigh luggage (up to 110 pounds) or individual items as they are packed, ensuring travelers stay within allowable weight limits before they head for the airport!

Looking for more Packing advice? Find all of our top tips on our Packing Page !

Tech Gifts For Travelers

In the modern era of traveling, there are numerous technical travel gifts that can help enhance any trip! We love gadgets, but we are only highlighting the most useful travel tech gifts in this list.

#8 Travel Camera: Gift for your Favorite Traveler

For many, capturing the sights and precious moments of a vacation in photographs is as important as the trip itself…which is why great travel cameras make perfect presents for people who travel!

For budding photographers, the Canon Rebel Kit is one of the best travel presents, as it comes with heaps of accessories. The Rebel DSLR comes with multiple lenses (but we recommend purchasing an 18-135mm lens separately) and is packed with features to create amazing photos.

Pro Tip : If you are looking for a great budget camera to give as a gift, consider buying a Canon Powershot . It’s slim enough to fit into a pocket and still takes fantastic pics!

#9 Kindle Paperwhite: Practical Gifts for the Traveler

E-readers are one of the most useful gifts for someone traveling! With an e-reader, there is no need to pack multiple books for a beach trip or long-haul flight…users can download numerous books directly to the device.

The Kindle Paperweight is one of the best gifts for people who travel a lot, because it is packed with top features! A best-seller of e-readers, the Paperwhite features a glare-free screen, 8-32GB of storage space, plus it pairs with Bluetooth headphones and has a battery that lasts for weeks. Not only is it thin and light, the latest version of Kindle Paperwhite is also waterproof. 

Bundle your present and give the gift of an Unlimited Kindle Membership that allows access to more than 1 million books!

#10 Garmin Watch: Gifts for People who like to Travel Outdoors

If you are searching for a gift for an outdoorsy traveler, a Garmin Fenix GPS watch might be what you are looking for! The high-tech, durable wrist watch is made for the adventurer and includes features like navigation tools, connectivity and a long-lasting battery.

We don’t personally own one of these hot gadgets, but we definitely see the appeal and think it would make a good gift for someone traveling on an outdoor adventure. 

#11 Portable Charger: Useful Gift Ideas when Traveling

With full days of sightseeing, picture-taking, social-media-sharing and Google map-checking, mobile devices will surely need a mid-day boost – and that’s why a portable charger is one of the most useful things for traveling!

There are numerous choices for portable power banks, but the Anker PowerCore 10000 charger comes highly recommended as travel accessories gifts. The small, lightweight, portable battery-booster can recharge phones, iPods and iPads on the go, so the devices stays charged and ready-to-use. Trust us, it’s one of the best gifts for travelers!

#12 Waterproof Phone Case: Great Vacation Gift

Some of the best vacation moments are spent in the water – splashing in a pool, going head-first down a water slide, boating on a lake or snorkeling in the sea – and water is the worst place for electronic devices. Therefore, a waterproof phone case is one of the best gifts for those who travel!

The waterproof JOTO Cellphone Dry Bag is not only ideal for stowing handheld devices (plus money and credit cards), but it’s clear, making it possible to take photos while in the water. Tip: The case is a great small travel gift, as it costs less than $10 USD!

#13 Travel Adapter: Useful Gifts for International Travelers

Looking for gifts for someone traveling abroad? A travel adapter is a necessity for international travelers! There is no worldwide standard for power outlets, so a universal travel adapter is the way to go – especially when traveling to multiple countries.

When buying adapters as gifts for overseas travelers, make sure it comes with USB ports so they can charge multiple devices at one time. An adapter with multiple ports is one of the useful travel gifts for family trips, too!

Clothing Gifts For People Who Travel

Clothes that are designed with the traveler in mind make fantastic useful travel gifts! Our clothing gift suggestions for travelers include outdoor apparel, multi-functional scarves and accessories, too.

#14 Technical Travel Apparel: Useful Gift Ideas for Travelers

When you think of travel items gifts, you may not think of clothes – but technically designed apparel is one of the things travelers need. Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing items make some of the best travel related gifts. 

There are two companies that come to mind when we think of travel wear: Columbia and Mountain Hardware. We have long been fans of Columbia apparel. They have a range of tough-tested gear that is both stylish and functional – as well as comfortable.  

Kris owns a pair of Mountain Hardware pants that have seen some miles, yet hardly show any wear at all. The gear at Mountain Hardware is top-quality and made for the outdoors. In addition to men’s apparel, they have clothing for women , too!

#15 Buff Multi-Purpose Band: Multi-Functional Travel Gift

The Buff multi-purpose headband is incredibly versatile – which is what makes it one of the perfect presents for people traveling! The band can be situated on the head numerous ways – as a scarf, hat, headband, hair cover, mouth-ear-and-nose cover and hood – to name a few.

Buff bands are also quick-drying and moisture-wicking – plus the fabric is treated to help control odors, which is another reason they make a great travel present. 

#16 Lightweight Raincoat: Good Gifts for a Traveler

A rain jacket is useful to have on any trip! Traditional rain coats can be heavy and bulky – and while plastic rain covers work in a pinch, they are not ideal. That’s why a raincoat is one of the best gifts for someone traveling. The jacket is not only waterproof and breathable, but it only weighs 6.4 ounces and folds into it’s own carrying pouch that is the size of a granola bar. They make a similar style more fitted for women , too!

Pro Tip : While the raincoat by itself should keep your traveler dry, pair it with a lightweight and compact travel umbrella to make it a perfect travel gift pack!

#17 Compression Socks: Useful Gifts for Traveling by Plane

Airplane travel – especially long-haul flights – can take a toll on your body, most notably on blood circulation. Passengers often notice their feet and legs are swollen after a long flight – and some travelers have developed blood clots after being in the air.

Compression socks (as unattractive as they may be) aid in keeping blood circulating properly to reduce the risk of swelling and clotting while traveling by air – which is why we think they are one of the most practical gifts for traveling abroad.

Looking for a product with a little pizzazz? Try these colorful compression socks as gifts for airplane travel!

#18 Versatile Wrap: Top Useful Travel Gift

The wrap I carry with me is the most versatile item in my backpack and one of my most useful travel items. I have used it as a wrap (as intended), a scarf, a picnic blanket, a beach towel, a shower towel, a bus seat cover and rolled up as a plane pillow.

To wrap it up (pun intended), it makes a fantastic travel gift! Although my wrap was not intended for such uses, this versatile wrap is designed to be multi-purpose. 

#19 Travel Scarf with Hidden Pocket: Smart Travel Gift

The Travel Scarf is an ingenious invention: it’s an infinity scarf with a hidden zippered pocket. So, while it is fashionable to wear and can provide a bit of warmth, it also has a secure spot for a passport, wallet and phone. We think travel scarves are quintessential gifts for someone traveling to Europe.

If you are shopping for Useful Travel Gifts for Him, consider gifting a water bottle, that is a Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Hidden Compartment . 

#20 Travel Accessory Gifts For Clothes: Useful Travel Gadget Gifts

Minimalist packers and travelers on long trips will undoubtedly need to wash a few clothing items at some point on their journey. Fortunately, there are numerous apparel accessories that you can buy as presents for travelers.

A Travel Clothesline is key for travelers who need to ‘sink wash’ items like socks and undies – and they will need travel detergent packets , too.

Business travelers might like these folding hangers – and a mini-iron to keep clothes looking fresh for meetings abroad is another great gift for someone who travels for work. While we wouldn’t categorize these items as fun travel gifts, they are certainly useful!

Toiletry Travel Gifts

Toiletries can be tough to pack; travelers need quality products to ensure liquids won’t spill and that what they carry through security meets TSA guidelines. That said, there are a ton of helpful travel size gifts that are useful!

#21 GoToob: Useful Presents for Travelers

Travelers have been raving about GoToob products for years. The refillable, no-drip, silicon bottles are great for frequent travelers who want to carry their own brand of shampoo, conditioner and body wash with them on their trip.

The best reason GoToob products are good plane travel gifts: the bottles meet the regulations for TSA and the latest-edition of the bottles are clearly marked as being 3.4 oz and 100 ml.

#22 Toiletry Travel Kit: Gifts Travelers Will Use

If you are looking for a gift for a novice traveler, a Toiletry Travel Kit fits the bill! This travel kit gift includes 19 grooming necessities – all conveniently packaged in TSA-approved travel-size bottles. It’s like giving 19 small travel gifts in one package.

On the other hand, a luxury leather toiletry bag is fantastic for frequent travelers.

#23 L’Occitane: Best Luxury Travel Gifts

Spoil your traveler a little with something luxurious from the L’Occitane Travel collection. Their travel-size essentials, like shampoo, conditioner, lotion and creams are great gifts for people who travel.

And, during the holidays, they offer fun gift sets – like their 24-item Advent Calendar and travel-size lotion box sets, too. 

#24 Travel Essentials: Most Useful and Practical Travel Gifts

There are a few essential toiletry items we would never travel without – and they just so happen to be really good gifts for travelers! Some of our essentials are sanitizer , tissue packets , Band-aids and a travel roll of toilet paper …just in case.

You can create a fun and necessary travel gift set of these items as the perfect practical traveler gift!

Read more about the Everyday Items for Travel that we always pack for trips!

Useful Travel Gifts For An Upcoming Trip

If the traveler you are buying a present for has an upcoming trip planned, our destination-specific travel gift ideas might be exactly what you are looking for.

#25 Guidebooks: Essential Travel Gifts

Guidebooks are outstanding gifts for people who love to travel. Lonely Planet has a collection of guidebooks for travel around the world. These books provide information and advice for destinations on every continent on the planet.

The collection of travel books range from multi-country to city-specific. They also have eBooks, language books and books for kids – as well as an entire series that can be given as gifts to inspire travel . 

Pro Tip : Looking for something different? We also like Rick Steves’ Guidebooks as gifts for European travel.

#26 Must-Have In-Flight Travel Gear: Useful Gifts for Plane Travel

Plane travel is not as glamorous as it once was, but with the right in-flight gear , it can still be an enjoyable ride.

Some of the best plane travel gifts are a contoured eye mask and a revolutionary neck-support TRTL travel pillow. (They also work for long bus rides, for that matter!).

A good pair of noise-canceling headphones is a must – and if the loved one you are buying a gift for uses wireless headphones, then a Twelve South Airfly Bluetooth adapter might be useful if they want to use the seat-back entertainment options. 

Travelers who suffer from extreme ear pressure will likely benefit from using earplugs like EarPlanes that help reduce air pressure discomfort.

Additionally, a Travel Clean Kit – which includes hand wipes, face wipes, a face mask and a headrest cover – is a great gift for people who travel by plane. 

Pro Tip : These air travel gifts all make great stocking stuffers, too!

#27 Safety Gadgets: Useful Traveler Gifts for Staying Safe

It’s always a good idea for travelers practice safety precautions – and there are several ways to stay safe when away from home. 

An alarm is a helpful travel item for solo, young and novice travelers. A personal safety alarm is one of the ‘keep safe’ travel gifts for people who love to venture on their own. The Vigilant Alarm is activated by a push button and deactivated by a hidden button. In case of battery failure, there is even a back up whistle. 

A Door Stopper Alarm is another great gift that is useful for travelers. It can provide an extra level of security for staying in hotel rooms or apartment accommodations. 

Another fabulous safety travel gift is a Portable Carbon Monoxide Detector . The small gadget can detect harmful CO gas in hotel rooms, Airbnb apartments, VanLife cars and tents. 

#28 Viator: Travel Experiences Gifts

Travel experiences are one of the best gifts for travel junkies! Whether looking for gifts for traveling abroad or destinations in your own country, gifting someone a travel experience is a fantastic idea.

Viator is a one-stop-shop for booking activities worldwide, offering more than 60,000 travel experiences. You can book these experiences in advance, which makes them fabulous travel gifts. From watching a Moulin Rouge Show in Paris to joining a guide for a Food Tour in Amsterdam , Viator has a range of activities that any traveler would love!

#29 Rosetta Stone: Helpful Gift for Traveling Abroad

Before traveling to a new country, we like to learn the some of the key phrases in the local language. Rosetta Stone offers interactive software in 25 languages to help explorers learn more than just a few words and phrases, which is why it is one of the best gifts for someone traveling abroad!

In fact, for those who want a continued online education of a specific language, Rosetta Stone offers year-long memberships. 

#30 Priority Pass: Airport Lounge Travel Gift

We think the Priority Pass is one of the best gifts for frequent travelers. Membership with Priority Pass means VIP access to more than 1,000 airport lounges in cities around the world, which is a nice slice of luxury for frequent fliers . There are three levels of membership to choose from: Standard, Standard Plus and Prestige.

The Ultimate Travel Gift: Give The Gift Of Travel

Without a doubt, the absolute best gift for travelers is Travel! Planning a trip with (or for) someone is the greatest and most memorable travel gift ever! My mom gifted me my first European trip as a college graduation present – and years later, we still reminisce about our epic vacation abroad. 

Plan A Trip On Your Own

Booking a vacation for someone else is a lot of work, but well-worth the effort. There are various details you will need to sort, like flights , accommodation and activities . No need to stress : we give our best tips on booking flights , finding the perfect hotel and our Ultimate Packing List on our Travel Planning Page. 

Plan A Trip With A Trusted Tour Company

While it can be rewarding to plan a trip on your own, sometimes it is best to leave the nitty-gritty details to a professional. There really are a ton of details to consider, especially when planning a trip as a gift. Tour companies to the rescue! For solo travelers and small travel groups who want to book a tour, the key is finding the right travel company. Go to our Organized Tour resources page to find out more about booking a trip with a trusted tour company. 

Whether you book a trip on your own or use a travel company, consider buying Travel Insurance !

Need more travel gift ideas?  Check out our list of Unique Travel Gifts ! From gear to gifts to tours to trips, we’ve highlighted the top gift ideas for travelers.

Still need some travel inspiration? Take a look at our Travel Guides to check out the amazing countries we’ve visited – and our recommendations for what to do in each destination. Can’t travel right now? That’s okay! Scratch that travel itch  to cope when you can’t travel.

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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25 Unique Gifts for the Travel Addict in Your Life (2020)

Shopping for someone whose vice is travel can be tricky at best. A plane ticket is too costly, and avoiding unwanted “stuff” can be hard. In need of thoughtful and ethical inspiration? Here's 25 unique and practical travel gift ideas.

1. Fujifilm Mini Instax Camera or Smartphone Printer

Give the gift of an instant souvenir maker with the Fujifilm Mini Instax Camera . It's compact, has a selfie mirror at the front, and a fun addition to any trip. This has been one of our favorite recent purchases and is great for weddings & weekend getaways, too.

Want something smaller with the same function? Fujifilm's Instax portable smartphone printer is a great compact alternative.

Price : $49.95 USD for Fujifilm Instax Mini, $99.95 USD for Fujifilm Instax Smartphone Printer.

2. A year of coffee from around the world

A gift that integrates the vices of coffee and travel, the Atlas Coffee Club subscription service sends members a new bag of coffee each month from around the world. Each shipment includes fresh, roasted to order single-origin coffee, a postcard, coffee journal, and info cards about its origin country, flavor notes, and brew tips. All their varieties are single origin and either fair-trade certified or directly purchased at above-market rates from coffee co-ops.

Price: Starting at $9/shipment for 6oz . Save up to $55 off subscriptions .

3. Carry-on cocktail mixing kit

Enjoy a lavish cocktail in the sky without flying first class! The Cocktail Box Co's carry-on cocktail kits require just a splash of booze from the drink cart to upgrade your in-flight drink. Each kit makes anywhere from 3-6 drinks, or even 25+ if you buy more sugar cubes.

The set meets TSA requirements, containing liquids <100mL, plus comes in a colourful reusable tin. Choose your go-to drink of choice or go big with a multi-option set.

Price : $22.99 USD per single kit of four choices: Gin & tonic , Champagne cocktail , Old fashioned , or Moscow Mule . 4-piece kit with all cocktails $69.99 USD

4. Corkboard travel map

An eco-wise alternative to plastic scratch maps, Miss Wood's Corkboard World Map comes with pins of all the world country flags, food, and famous monuments. Its Nordic-inspired design has plenty of space for pinning travel photos & colourful flags. Feel good bonus: it's sustainably made with all natural materials in Barcelona.

Price : $44 USD (L), $59 USD (XL), $87 USD (framed XL)

5. Custom jewelry of your travels

What's more unique than custom-made jewelry of one's travels? Engrave countries visited or a special destination onto metal key rings or a necklace . All products are handmade in Toronto, Canada and can be made double-sided. If you'd rather let the recipient design their own piece, a gift card is the great option.

Ethical bonus: 20% of all proceeds go to Travel Collective's charity which funds dream trips for less fortunate nominated people in need.

Price:  Keychains $22.50 (+ vegan leather option), key clips $22.50 , necklaces from $22.50 Pssst ! Get 30% off all orders of $100 using discount code tcFAM

6. Smartphone lens kit

Save packing space without compromising on photoshoots with the award-winning Xenvo Smartphone Lens Kit . The kit works with all iPhones, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy and Note, and more. The lens attachments include wide angle, zoom, 15x macro, portrait, plus a rechargeable LED. Included is a charging cable, travel pouch, quick release lanyard, cleaning kit, and a lifetime warranty.

Price : $39.99 USD

7. Around-the-world hot sauce & spice set

For those who like it hot ( and love to travel), Thoughtfully's Round-the-World Hot Sauce Set is a sizzling pick. There are various sizes suited for different budgets, and also extend to a combined global sauce and spice kit too. A unique Secret Santa gift or a spicy present for anyone.

Price : large kit $69.99 USD , medium kit $32.99 USD , small sauce & spice kit $28.99 USD , globetrotter food truck hot sauce $22.99 USD

8. Compact waterproof travel speaker

Perfectly portable with its carabiner, the Kunodi bluetooth speaker makes music possible anywhere in the world. Waterproof and durable, the Kunodi can be taken to the beach, on a hike, camping, and more. Better yet, it has a microphone so you can even pick up calls on the go. At just $15, this is a no-brainer practical present.

Price : $15.99 USD

9. Travel-themed ornaments

Add some festive wanderlust cheer with handmade, mouth-blown glass travel ornaments. Why not choose a meaningful destination, whether the recipients' dream holiday or favourite places of trips passed.

Price : Globe $9 USD , passport $15 USD , London bus $15 USD , suitcase $13.95 USD

10. Tile Mate (loss prevention/item finder)

Track lost belongings or your MIA luggage ( thanks United ) with the teeny Tile Mate . Simply tuck square device into a suitcase or backpack, or attach to anything you don't want to misplace. The tile is trackable via a smartphone which makes the device ring or appear on a map to locate. We always put Tiles in our luggage & backpacks when on the road and have used it plenty over the years.

Price : $17 USD on Amazon

11. Outdoor travel subscription box

For the nature and camping enthusiast, a monthly outdoor travel subscription is a great way to inspire outdoor getaways. Nomadik's monthly bundle has a variety of tested travel gear. Previous packaged items include camera dry bags, high-end pocket camping stove, premium camping meals, and more. The subscription can be cancelled at anytime, making it easy to pause should they depart on an extended adventure.

Price : $29.99+ USD /month. Limited holiday edition boxes ( $29.99 USD ).

12. Luxe airplane travel kit

A gift that can make the difference between a restless, wide-eyed night on a plane or a peaceful several hours shut eye on long-haul flights. This has been our favourite airplane pillow to date and is a must for any jetsetter.

Price : $19.95 USD

13. A quality travel bag

For that someone with a knack for quality (& globetrotting!), why not gift a durable, stylish travel bag built to last a lifetime of travel? Nomatic produces a range of travel bags, from day bags & side bags, to travel backpacks up to 40L but get this – they're all carry-on size.

These bags have a range of clever features including water-resistant material, shoe storage, quality zippers, magnetic water bottle pockets, TSA-ready laptop sleeves, and more. The price tag on these is hefty (and could perhaps work well as a group gift). But the quality & feature across the likes of Business Insider, WIRED, GQ, and more speaks for itself.

Price : Starting at $249 USD (though many products discounted 50% for holidays)

14. A year of airport lounge access worldwide

Arguably the best present on this list, why not gift the oh-so-glorious privilege of global airport lounge access for a year? The Priority Pass provides users with annual access to over 1,300 airport lounges around the world.

Price : Starting at $99 USD/year ( get a 10% discount using this link ).

15. Travel-themed board game(s)

Make rainy days inspire your next trip with a travel-themed board game. Explore nature with the Monopoly National Parks Edition or test your cultural intelligence with Passport to Culture Travel Edition . These games aren't just for kids (though some of the kid-friendly ones could be thoughtful if buying a gift for parents). See more ideas below!

Price : Monopoly National Parks Edition $38.99 USD , Passport to Culture Travel Edition $29.95 USD , The World Travel Game $25.99 USD , Backpacker: The Ultimate Travel Game $17.90 USD

16. The gift of travel

“Collect experiences, not things” – put this mantra into gift-form with a travel voucher that can be spent on tours, activities, and more. Even for the traveller who despises group tours, the gift card be put toward bucket list places that do require a guide, such as the Galapagos or Chernobyl . From cooking classes in Thailand and motorcycle tours in Europe, to cruises and skip-the-line tickets at notoriously busy spots like the Vatican or Louvre, this gift doesn't disappoint.

Price: Minimum $50 USD. Find affordable day tours with reviews, instant confirmation, and free cancellation on GetYourGuide and Viator . If you're feeling really generous, book entire package vacations at G Adventures (don't miss their deals page ) and TourRadar .

17. Sturdy travel umbrella

An umbrella is something not to be missed on any trip, so why not save a traveller from the frustrations of one that breaks after a couple of uses? Vumos' durable tiny umbrellas have a lifetime guarantee, and come in a sturdy case plus a variety of styles.

Price : $18.95 USD on Amazon

18. A glass globe whisky set

Whisky, wine & wanderlust – these are a few of our favourite things! This hand blown Godinger Glass Whisky Decanter Set is beautifully etched with an elegant wood stand. The decanter can be used for anything from hard liquor to wine, or simply as a unique jug for soda or spritzers.

Price:  $52 USD

19. Phone charging passport holder

Keep your passport safe, charge your phone, and protect your identity all at once with this RFID-Protecting Passport Holder & phone-charging wallet. It charges with all smartphones and includes the power bank. The holder is made of high quality vegan leather and comes in a variety of colours with different travel-inspired phrases.

Price : $37.99 USD

20. Travel magazine subscription

For those with zero interest in curing their wanderlust, a travel magazine subscription is great for inspiring future trips. Popular favorites include Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Condé Nast, Sunset, and Travel + Leisure.

Price : Lonely Planet $96/year , National Geographic Traveler $19/year , Sunset Magazine $10/year

21. An airplane bottle opener

“Let the Adventures Begin” – the hand-tied note on Kate Aspen's airplane bottle opener says it all. Whether cracking open a Singha in Thailand or a Bud Light back home, this antique-inspired bottle opener is a thoughtful small gift or stocking stuffer.

Price : $2.79 USD for one

22. Levitating LED magnetic desk globe

Unique and ornamental, this levitating globe hovers like magic between two magnetic ends. The colourful LED lights add a majestic hue, making it a calming, colourful ornament for anywhere.

Price : $21.99 USD

23. Travel yoga mat with carry bag

Perfect for the globetrotting yogi or workout buff, the Toplus Yoga Mat is compact, non-slip, and tiny enough to fit in even the smallest travel bag. It's made of eco-friendly suede and comes with a one-year warranty.

Price : $29.99 USD

24. Magnetic globe

The globe comes in three colours, including black/gold, classic blue, and antique tan.

Price : $79.95 USD on Amazon

25. E-Reader & ebooks

Eliminate the bulk of paper books, and help pass the time on long bus, plane, and train rides with a Kindle eReader . In addition to fiction novels, you can buy the full range of Lonely Planet travel guides too, so you don't have to lug around a thick book while you're exploring. A protective case is recommended to cover the screen when it's stowed away.

Price : Starts at $49.99 USD, though it is worth the long-term investment of the Kindle Paperwhite or higher, as these are glare-free and can be used in direct sunlight, priced at $89.99+ USD on Amazon . Various prices for Lonely Planet Kindle books .

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50 Best Travel Gifts for Her (Unique Ideas for 2024)

Looking for the best travel gifts for her? Even if travel is looking a little different this year, if she loves to jaunt around the world, she’ll love these unique travel gift ideas.

Finding the best travel gifts for her is no easy task. I grew up surrounded by women who travel. And, following every holiday season, I find myself with significantly less hair. I spend the holiday months pulling it all out, trying to find the best travel gift ideas for each of them.

Perhaps the woman in your life in your life is hard to shop for, too. For example, she probably buys herself anything she needs on the road. That’s why I wanted to put together this list of the best travel gifts for women—to inspire some gift ideas you might not otherwise think of.

I’m no expert, so I reached out to one of my favorite ladies (my sister)—who is a world traveler—and who offered me the low-down on some of the best travel gifts for women.

Favorite Travel Gifts for Her

Bluffworks trevi dress.

The Bluffworks Trevi Dress just might be the most stylish travel gift to give your fashion-forward female friend. Ideal for short or long-term trips, the dress is made with odor-wicking and wrinkle-resistant fabric, so it’s easy to toss in your luggage.

And unlike most dresses, the Trevi has six different built-in pockets for your phone, passport, wallet, or anything else she’ll need for her trip. If she loves to travel but also wants to look smart, then the Trevi dress is a must-have in her closet.

Vessi Travel Shoes

All women should have a durable pair of sneakers that are comfortable and stylish. If she’s always complaining about sore feet or blisters, then get her Vessi Travel Shoes. These lightweight knit kicks are great travel gifts for everyday wear.

Best of all, the woven fabric in all Vessi footwear is completely waterproof. Which means she’ll be prepared to endure whatever the weather report throws at her. Whether she’s exploring new cities or hitting up the hiking trail, she’ll have the perfect travel shoes to match. Don’t believe me? Read my full Vessi shoes review!

Peak Design Everyday Tote

Ideal for photographers, the Peak Design Everyday Tote will keep her camera, lenses, and any other accessories or equipment organized wherever she goes.

However, the versatility of these tote bags is why it tops our list as one of the best travel gifts for her. Not only in terms of internal organization, but how it can be styled, too. She can wear it as a tote, a cross-body messenger bag, or even a normal handbag.

And unlike most camera bags, this stealthy tote is low-profile and perfect for everyday use.

LARQ Self-Cleaning Water Bottle

This is easily one of our all-time favorite gifts for travelers. The LARQ Self-Cleaning water bottle is one of the most advanced water purification systems in the world which makes it perfect for travel to far off destinations (or right here at home). Its UV-C light neutralizes 99.9999% of viruses and bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli.

She’ll get great tasting water, AND she’ll be helping out the environment by ditching single-use plastics in the process. Win, win!

For more information about this water bottle, check out our full LARQ Bottle review .

Tinggly Superwoman Travel Gift Card

Is she a superwoman? (The answer is obviously “YES!”) This Tinggly Superwoman gift box offers the gift of travel, whether she’s an adventurous traveler, a curious soul, or just someone looking to try something new.

With this gift, she’ll be able to choose her next big adventure from 850+ experiences in over 100 countries. This gift never expires, so she can travel whenever she’s ready (and there’s an option to add another person, in case you feel like joining).

There is literally something for everyone here: a canoe trip in Quebec, a perfume-making workshop in France, a floating market tour in Thailand, wine tasting in Napa. You name it, you’ll find it. The only real challenge here will be trying to narrow down all the options! But hey, that’s a good problem to have.

Leatherology Travel Necessities Gift Set

This sophisticated Leatherology Travel Necessities Gift Set comes with a passport holder (with a space to hold tickets), an accessories pouch for all her tech accessories, and a rectangular luggage tag.

Leatherology’s products are made with their signature fine-grain leather, and you can even personalize it with her name. There are six colors in total.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Neck Pillow

People with travel pillows on planes are always the envy of every other passenger. Why not let her be that person?

The Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow  is the best neck pillow I’ve used, period. That’s why I’m claiming it as the best travel gift for women who travel around the world.

With front and side supports, and the ability to attach it to your headrest, she’ll never wake up during a flight with a permanently crippled neck. It might not seem like much but it’ll revolutionize her travel.

Tile Bluetooth Tracking Device

Not to imply that she’s apt to lose things—but it’s every traveler’s worst fear. The  Tile Pro  attaches to pretty much any item (keys…even a dog’s collar!) or  the slim version  slides into a wallet or passport.

If the woman in your life seems to misplace her valuable items, then this is one of the best travel gifts you could get her.

Integrated Bluetooth allows her to ring her Tile directly from her smartphone. She can locate the last place she had it, or god-forbid, track it down (completely anonymously!) when it passes within range of anyone else in the Tile community. It’s handy during travel on the road or at home.

08left Airport Prints and Posters - Custom Wall Art

For every traveler, there are some special places that stay with us forever. Give her  custom art from 08left  or a set of all her favorite cities or airport codes to keep those travel memories alive every day. These posters will always be reminders for her travel experience.

Travel Gifts for Her Under $50

Harber london leather earphone cord wrap case.

This Leather Earphone Case is one of the best gifts I’ve found this year.

This stylish little organizer is simple and will make it much easier for her to keep her earphones tangle-free. It can also protect her earbuds and prevent damage. As a bonus, it is made with high-quality genuine leather for a bit of classy style.

No more pulling a tangled web of cords out of her pocket or purse! This also makes a fantastic little stocking stuffer.

Aesop Departure Kit

For any lady with a carefully planned out skincare routine, the Aesop Departure Kit should be at the top of their wishlist.

This little kit of luxury travel-sized products covers it all: moisturizer, lip balm, mouthwash, a hydrating face mask, and more.

With all-natural ingredients and incredibly simple-but-stated packaging, this kit is a thoughtful luxury gift…especially for those long-haul flights of the future.

Ouai Anti Frizz Hair Sheets

If frizzy hair is an issue, I promise that these incredibly handy Ouai Anti Frizz Hair Sheets will become her absolute travel must-have.

Think dryer sheets, but for her hair: all she has to do is swipe the sheet down through her hair, and voila! No more static or wild frizz.

They’re easy to pack and come in sizes small enough to tuck into a purse or bag, so quick fixes while in transit are no longer a problem. Plus they’re good for all hair types, from straight to coiled.

Speakeasy Hidden Pocket Travel Scarf

Who knew travel safety could look this good? Speakeasy Hidden Pocket Travel Scarfs make a great gift for travelers because they protect passports and other valuables in the most stylish way possible. They securely store chapsticks, ID cards, house keys, and other small items with hidden, self-locking zippers.

Choose between dozens of colors and patterns to coordinate with any outfit. Speakeasy Travel Scarves come in both lightweight fabrics for summertime or heavy, cozy fabrics for colder weather. For a woman who loves to travel, look no further than these cozy and stealthy gifts!

Lightning USB Cable Tassel

She’ll never have to hunt for her travel charger again or wish she hadn’t checked it in her luggage. With  this decorative tassel , she’s ready to go at the next charging station she comes across.

These small gifts will work just like her normal smartphone charger. But they clip to a purse or keychain so she’ll always have it with her. They make perfect gifts for people who are always misplacing their cords!

Anker PowerCore Slim High Capacity Power Bank

Power banks are lifesavers for people who love to travel. That bus with free WiFi isn’t going to be much fun if your smartphone dies two hours into the journey.

Help her stay fully charged at all times by treating her to an ultra-slim  power bank from Anker . With a high-speed charging system, it provides enough juice to charge her smartphone over two times! And, it’s the perfect size for a stocking stuffer—small enough to fit in her purse or the outside pocket of her luggage.

Aria Travel Kit

The Aria Travel Kit is a small vegan-leather pouch filled with quality, hand-picked products that will easily fit inside her carry-on. These all-natural products include deodorant, solid perfume, lip balm, face and body moisturizer, earplugs, disposable face masks, a pen, a bamboo toothbrush, and more.

Silken Pure Sleep Mask

The Silken Pure Sleep Mask might be the most luxurious sleep mask on the market! It’s made from 100% pure organic silk, making for an ultra-soft material that will actually improve her natural skin hydration and overall health. If she has trouble sleeping on flights (or even in her own bed), she’ll be grateful for this piece of eye candy.

The masks also come in a number of chic colors, like gold and black. It’s one of my favorite ideas on this list.

Carry-On Cocktail Kit

Is there a better experience than concocting a bespoke cocktail than 30,000 ft in the air?  These little pouches of boozy goodness  are delicious gifts, and allow her to whip up two cocktails wherever she is. One for her and one for you. Or both for her.

All she needs is a glass and the requisite alcohol. You can’t go wrong with one of these gifts!

Quip Toothbrush Set

A toothbrush might be an odd travel gift, but oral hygiene is sometimes hard to maintain on the road. It’s great for travel, as the last thing you want on the road is a cavity!

The Quip toothbrush  has been expertly designed with the right sized bristles and perfect level of vibration to make your teeth gleam. The charger is slim-line and the toothbrush is equipped with a timer so you know when you’re done.

BaByliss Pro Travel Dryer

There’s nothing worse than trying to style hair using an old hotel blow dryer. Thanks to the BaBylissPro Travel Dryer , women no longer have to suffer from wet, frizzy hair when traveling! It can be tucked into any purse or suitcase with it’s sleek, compact design and folding handle.

And unlike most travel hairdryers, the BaBylissPro Travel Dryer uses tourmaline titanium technology that leaves hair shiny and frizz-free in just a fraction of the time. This is the perfect travel gift if she wants healthy, happy, and clean hair!

Travel Gift Ideas Under $100

Kindle paperwhite.

If she loves to read, then this is just the thing for her. The Kindle Paperwhite  can easily slide into a purse or even a back pocket. It’s super lightweight and she’ll have more access to more books than she could ever read.

Plus, the ability to easily export notes and highlights to email means she can discretely bring her guidebook along without looking like a tourist. That’s why this is one of the best gifts for travelers. Cute covers also make for great gifts!

Bucketfeet World Map Shoes

Let her show her love of travel on her feet! Bucketfeet collaborates with artists worldwide to design a constantly rotating set of  limited edition shoes . For the lady who loves to travel in comfort and style, these shoes are the perfect gift.

An artist and backpacker collaborated to create this unique, global brand and this pair shows a true sense of wanderlust…reminding us of everything to explore and all the conversations to be had worldwide. And, she’ll be able to show off all the countries she has ever visited.

JBL Flip 4 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Believe it or not,  this little speaker makes a great gift for travelers .  They’re waterproof, shockproof, and strap on to pretty much anything (it even fits perfectly in a cup holder or backpack water bottle holder), and lasts up to 12 hours—all while providing killer sound.

There are a lot of bluetooth speakers on the market, but this is the best one if you’re looking for travel gift ideas.

23andMe Ancestry Kit

Is she curious to know a little bit more about who she is? Who isn’t? The  23andMe Ancestry Test  will tell her which countries her ancestors lived more than half a millennium ago!

The ancestry test makes really unique gifts for travelers, especially if they’re interested in their heritage and might even be interested in tracing their family’s footsteps. To take it a step further,  upgrade her kit to include a full health report !

Best Travel Gift Ideas for Beauty & Wellness

Cirrhus no. 2 travel steamer.

Here’s a goodie for business travelers/fashionistas: the portable Cirrhus No. 2 Travel Steamer . It’s the most perfect way to keep garments wrinkle-free and fresh.

It folds up into a neat little package that will even fit in your carry-on (without water, of course). It’s particularly useful for her most delicate fabrics, like silk or cashmere.

Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Yoga Mat

For yogi travel lovers, this is one of the best gift ideas you could get for the traveler in your life. She’ll absolutely love this Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Yoga Mat .

It has tons of grip, weighs as light as a feather, and is only 1.5mm thick. It rolls up easily like a regular yoga mat, but it can also fold up in a neat little package to toss in a carry-on or suitcase—it’s super easy to pack. She’ll be able to take her yoga or workout practice with her wherever her travels take her.

Serene House Travel Sized Essential Oil Diffuser

Now she can take her aromatherapy on the road with her thanks to the Serene House Travel Size Essential Oil Diffuser .

Just a few drops of essential oils will bring well-being and serenity into her space. And the reason this is one of the best travel gifts for women is that it’s small enough to fit in her carry-on!

Kiehl’s Normal Skin Starter Kit

Any woman who loves to travel should be acquainted with the annoyance that is liquids. It can be a hassle because you need them on the plane, but you can’t take them in your carry-on. This means pouring a splash of everything you need into tiny little containers just for the journey.

The  Kiehl’s Normal Skin Starter Kit  has travel-sized bottles and one of the few travel gifts for her that’ll make life a lot easier. All of the toiletries are already packaged in 100ml containers.

She’ll never have to rummage through her luggage for her liquids, making airport security a breeze from here on out.

Trish McEvoy Makeup Planner

One of our favorite travel gifts for the over-packer with way too many products is  Trish McEvoy’s makeup planner . Smaller than the size of packing cubes (and certainly small enough to fit in her packing cubes), these planners will keep her brushes and palettes organized.

Individual “wardrobing” pages that she can customize with her favorite products snap into this luxurious, petite planner and eliminates the need for lots of individual cases for each of her favorite products.

Beauty by Earth Cooling After Sun Care Spray

Is she a sun goddess traveler? If so, she will absolutely thank you for this all-natural travel-sized After Sun Care Spray .

It minimizes inflammation and pain after spending too much time in the sun thanks to its cooling aloe, peppermint, and chamomile ingredients—it’s like instant relief in a bottle.

Furthermore, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free, and made completely without any unnatural preservatives.

Adventure Travel Gifts for Her

Looking for more adventure travel gifts? Take a look at our list of best gifts for hikers and campers .

Arc’teryx Covert Cardigan

We love a good understated cardigan—especially when that cardigan comes from one of our favorite brands, Arc’teryx. The Covert Cardigan has modern sweater styling with clean lines but lots of advanced design features, like breathable materials that help to regulate temperature.

It’s the perfect fall jacket that can be worn while out for an evening walk or while running errands around town. Made with Alpenex II™ heathered fleece, she’ll stay toasty and warm no matter where she is

YETI Rambler

With a YETI Rambler , she’ll never have to drink disgusting cold coffee again! Made from rust-free stainless steel, the YETI will keep her hot drinks hot and her cold drinks cold for hours.

This is one of those gifts that she can take with her to work, on a road trip, a flight around the world, or up the mountain.

The bottle comes in almost a dozen colors, so you can pick the best one that matches her style. It’s one of our favorite travel gifts for her this season.

Swiftwick Pursuit Hiking Socks

Socks: the gift for everyone! But seriously, these luxuriously soft, lightweight merino wool hiking socks from Swiftwick are a great gift and the nicest socks your gal will ever put on her feet.

They’re built for the outdoors, with mesh ventilation for breathability and a moisture transport system to keep feet dry and blister-free. But, really, they’re for everyone!

North Face Oh-Mega Fur Pom Beanie

Finding the right beanie can be difficult, but the North Face Oh-Mega Fur Pom Beanie will fit her like a glove…errr, hat. These beanies are great travel gifts that will keep her warm in the winter, or while traveling to different countries.

It’s made with classic cable-knit texture and topped with an adorable faux fur pom on the top. It’s one of my favorite travel gifts for her!

Keen Elena Mid Boots

Who says that you can’t wear sneakers in the rain? The Keen Elena Mid Boots are made with water-resistant leather, which will keep her toes warm, even if the temperature drops below freezing.

If she’s a hiker, these boots are a great gift idea for winter, these boots can withstand temperatures up to -4 degrees. From daily commutes to mountain treks, she’ll love having the perfect travel boot.

Deckers x Lab KO-Z Shoes

This line of shoes (and slippers and sandals) are considered the most comfortable work-from-home shoes in the world: she’ll be able to go from the home office to the makeshift gym in no time and feel like a million bucks while doing so.

All of the Deckers x Lab KO-Z shoes come with tons of arch support and extra padding. Top it off with a wide array of colors and patterns, and she’ll never want to go barefoot again.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Water Bottle

As one of the coolest gifts in this gift guide (and definitely one of my favorite ideas), The Grayl Geopress water bottle  sips like a Camelbak and contains no BPA or other icky chemicals. Plus it filters out bacteria, heavy metals, and any foul taste, meaning she can fill up anywhere knowing she doesn’t have to worry about quality.

Now, she won’t have to drink funky hotel water on her travels. And, it’s the perfect travel gift for the environment, because she’ll cut down on using single-use bottles. It’s our favorite bottle in our list of best water bottles for travel!

Luxury Travel Gifts for Women

Eberjey alpine chic robe.

If you want to spoil her, the Eberjey Alpine Chic Robe is a must.

You know how comfortable those hotel robes are? Now you can bring one home for the female traveler in your life. Wearing this incredibly plush, cozy robe is like being wrapped in a warm hug! The interior is fully sherpa lined, and the deep functional pockets are great for stashing her essentials.

She can wear it while just lounging around the house, or to cover up after a hot shower. It feels incredibly soft against the skin.

Kaya Laptop Travel Backpack

The Kaya Laptop Travel Backpack is ultra-stylish and yet still highly functional. This travel bag is made from faux leather and comes in a number of fun colors, including green, blue, purple, and pink.

The zippered back compartment holds a 15-inch laptop, and there are multiple interior pockets to keep everything organized. This travel backpack is a great gift and will take her from day-to-night, looking great the whole time.

Mejuri Travel Case

The  Mejuri Travel Case  is a small jewelry case that carries a surprising amount of stuff; that’s why it’s one of our best travel gifts. For light travelers, it’s ideal for carry-on luggage and is about the size of a clutch. There’s a section to hold rings and earrings, as well as hooks for necklaces. No more tangled chains!

There’s often a waitlist for this item, so make sure you pick up one sooner rather than later. Made with handcrafted leather and a suede interior, this design is so sleek and stylish you can take it with you on every trip.

Bose NC 700 Headphones

Everybody knows Bose produces some of the highest-quality audio products in the world, and their latest in wearable sound is no exception. If she travels a lot then why not get her a travel gift that immerses her in sound, both comfortably and in style? The Bose NC 700’s —wireless, noise-cancelling headphones—are without question one of the best travel gifts for women, hands down.

This is the newest model from Bose, and an upgrade from their previous model, the QuietComfort 35 II’s. If you’re deciding between the two, check out my full comparison of the Bose 700’s vs QC35’s .

Cambiami Interchangeable Sandals

If you manage to get this right then you’ll win big points.  Cambiami offers interchangeable sandals  so you can add a bit of customization to her gifts.

You’ll get a sole and multiple interchangeable straps, so it’s like a three-in-one pair of flats. This is one of those travel gift ideas that will get you forever in her good books.

Even better than that, because they’re custom made, nobody else will have flats quite like them! It’s one of the best gift ideas for travelers you can get her.

Mark & Graham Leather Tech Envelope

There is nothing worse than your plethora of charging cables tangling themselves into chaos.  This stylish tech envelope  eliminates that problem.

With one of these gifts, she’ll never have to extract her headphones from her Kindle wire. She also won’t need to worry about her cables or devices getting damaged in her bag while on the road.

It’s also perfectly sized for carrying a tablet and has pockets for cards, a phone, and a pen or stylus.

The cherry on top of this leather delight? It’s even better with her initials monogrammed on it!

Ringly Smart Jewelry

It’s about time women had a way to track their exercise without having to don some unsightly step counter on their wrist. The Fitbit tried to make trackers more stylish and now Ringly has taken it a step further. It’s one of the most stylish gifts you can get her.

Ringly  has incorporated fitness trackers into beautiful jewelry that people actually want to wear. Goodbye ugly, clunky tracker, this is one of the travel gifts for her that isn’t going back to the store.

BauBax Travel Jacket

BauBax makes multifunction jackets   just  for people who travel—and they make unique gifts, too! With four primary styles—bomber, sweatshirt, vest and windbreaker—these jackets are great travel gifts for her.

Plus, the primary selling point of these jackets: They’re loaded with more than 25 features, including built-in gloves, an inflatable travel pillow, a blanket, and even a footrest! It’s like giving a Swiss Army Knife of gifts. That’s not to mention all the pockets, so you can carry-on what you need instead of checking it.

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set

The Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set is a simple but stunning set of toiletry bags with an elegant curved design that comes in a rainbow of colors. The larger case is meant to stash all of her travel-sized items (like creams, deodorants, and balms), while the smaller case holds make-up and small accessories. If there are any make-up spills, the microsuede interior is easy to clean.

One of our favorite things about this product is that the leather is made in Argentina by a  family-owned workshop collective. The leather is Leather Working Group (LWG) certified, meaning it’s tanned in compliance with the highest sustainability measures.

Catalina Weekender Bag

This sophisticated Catalina Weekender Bag is wonderfully versatile and is made up of eco-friendly sustainable fabric; she’ll love carrying this along with her on a quick trip.

Despite its compact size, this bag comes with lots of nice features, including a handy bottom pocket with a removable padded insert for an extra pair of shoes (or anything else she wants to keep separate from her clean clothes).

There’s also a pass-through sleeve for attaching to a suitcase handle to make sure it stays put, and a messenger strap with removable padding.

Travel Photography Gifts for Women

Dji mavic mini.

If she’s a photographer, she’s going to love having her very own DJI Mavic Mini . This drone is one of the best gifts for travelers, period. It’s nearly as light as a smartphone, and yet it powerfully flies anywhere a regular drone would.

The simple DJI Fly app lets you do it all from your phone, and the camera stabilizer delivers the smoothest image possible. This will definitely up her photography game.

GoPro Hero 9 Black

What traveler wouldn’t LOVE a  GoPro camera!? Their latest release—the GoPro Hero 9 Black—is hands-free voice-controlled, wearable, waterproof, has a touchscreen and gimbal-like stabilization! Plus, the camera records 5K! This will easily be one of her favorite gifts if she has an adventurous spirit.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera

Sticking to the photography topic, here’s a fun one: the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera . Don’t you just kinda miss print photos and having a real camera? If she’s a travel photographer, this is a neat little addition to her camera gear.

The Mini 9 also comes with some nice extra touches, including a New Macro Lens for close-ups (35-50cm) and a Selfie Mirror so she’ll get the perfect shot every time.

These travel gifts are sure to please the lady in your life, whether she’s a friend or family member—even if it’s you! Skip the gift cards and buy a thing she’ll love. There’s something here for every budget, so dive in and get that shopping done.

• Best Gift Ideas for Travelers
• Best Travel Gifts for Men
• Best Travel Gear & Accessories

Travel Gifts for Her FAQs

What do you get someone who travels a lot.

Our list of the best gifts for travelers includes some fantastic ideas, from new travel shoes to a lightweight hammock to a passport wallet.

Is luggage a good gift?

Luggage can be a great gift for a frequent traveler.

How do you give a gift of travel?

Gift cards are the easiest way to give the gift of travel to someone. You could give a gift card for plane tickets, hotel stays, and more.

How can I surprise someone with a trip abroad?

The best way to surprise someone with a trip abroad is to buy a certificate for a trip. Then they can choose the specific dates.

Should you surprise someone with a trip?

Before you surprise someone with a trip, think about whether it’s something they really want or if it would add stress.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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9 Travel Kits That Will Make a Long Flight Bearable

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Before you resign yourself to suffering through your next red-eye or long-haul flight, consider packing something that can make the experience better: a comfort travel kit. With multiple travel essentials in each kit, it’s like opening a gift to yourself mid-flight.

The Best Travel Kits for Your Next Long Flight

Here are nine travel kits that will make your next flight more bearable.

Cashmere Travel Set

If you take frequent long-haul flights, consider investing in an ultra-soft cashmere travel set. Jet&Bo’s comes with a blanket, an eye mask, socks, and a carry-all case that doubles as a pillow. Bonus: You can use the blanket as a scarf if you’re headed somewhere cold.  

Pinch Provisions® Tech Kit

Containing eight essential items to ensure you’re bringing everything you’ll need on your next trip, the Pinch Provisions® tech kit is an easy-to-pack bestseller that’s designed to be thrown in your carry-on bag.  From earbuds and charging cables to a phone/tablet stand and microfiber cleaning cloth, being bored and accessory-less for a long flight will be a thing of the past with this compact kit.

Perricone MD The Jet Set Kit

Because a full-on skin-care routine can be quite the burden in the air, the easiest way to keep your beauty regimen in check is to have it all in a single kit. The Jet Set Kit from Perricone MD features a collection of its best-selling and top-rated formulas, so you can make sure your face, neck, and eyes are getting the treatment they need on your flight.

Scentered Aromatherapy Travel Kit

Scentered makes one of the best aromatherapy travel kits for long flights, especially if you get claustrophobic or are prone to headaches. This travel-friendly set includes one of each of its aromatherapy balms that have various uses, ranging from stress alleviation to inducing good moods. They all come in an easy-to-pack tin that you can toss in a carry-on or personal bag.

Pack Simply Customized Travel Kits

Make a DIY travel kit with Pack Simply . Choose from hundreds of products to create the ultimate in-flight kit that suits your particular needs. With everything from toiletries to hair ties to Advil, you’ll love the convenience. Select your products and the company puts together your travel kit and ships directly to you.

Tisserand Essential Survival Kit

Essential oils are a popular natural remedy to fight everything from jet lag to insomnia—which is why roll-on oils can be a frequent flyer’s best friend. I love Tisserand’s Essential Survival Kit ; this vegan oil kit comes with a de-stressing oil, an energizing oil, and a sleep-improving oil.

Snack Packs

Check out Amazon’s snack packs for when those stale peanuts just won’t do. Options include everything from energy bars to gourmet trail mixes.

The Laundress Travel Pack

Designed to combat wardrobe malfunctions on the go, the travel pack from The Laundress has everything you need for fast-acting attention. Containing crease release, stain remover, air freshener, and even a special detergent for delicate fabrics, stains don’t have to be the travel-wardrobe ruiner they used to be.

The Carry-on Cocktail Kit

You’ll get to a different level of comfort with this Carry-on Cocktail Kit . Its tin case is filled with everything you need to make an Old Fashioned: a muddler, bitters, cane sugar, and a recipe card. Order the booze from your flight attendant, mix, then sit back and relax.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 9 DIY Ways to Upgrade Economy Class
• The Ultimate Packing List
• The 5 Rules of Reclining Your Airplane Seat

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Travel Gifts

Stackers Medium Travel Jewellery Box

£28.00

Really handy jewellery travel case - great gift idea...Small enough to take with you in your suitcase. And make great gifts...

Pros: gift, usefulness, pretty

Luckies Scratch Map Travel Edition

£14.95

Compact and cute, Scratch Map® Travel is a mini version of Scratch Map ® Original. The perfect present for the globetrotter...

Stackers Cable Tidy Travel Bag

£30.00

Stalkers cable tidy travel bag...Bought as a Christmas gift for my daughter who spends half her working life travelling...

Diptyque The Art of Hand Care Travel Gift Set

£42.00

Gift ...Bought as a gift . Looked quite small. Recipient pleased....Beautiful presentation if a gift but equally a gorgeous...

Dock & Bay Cabana Stripe Quick Dry Beach Towel

£25.00

This is Dock & Bay's signature striped beach towel. Made from 100% recycled post-consumer plastic it ticks all the boxes...

Pros: size, quick drying, lightness

This Works Stress Check Breathe In

£19.00

Ideal gift or treat yourself...Unusual gift

Pros: help, fragrance, ease of use

Neom Organics London Moments of Wellbeing In The Palm Of Your Hand Bodycare Gift Set

£34.00

Perfect travel and handbag size!Great products and these help a lot in winter when your hands can become dry...Well received...

Pros: gift, size, fit

Tommee Tippee Ollie the Owl Gro Anywhere Blackout Blind

£34.99

Very easy to put up and move for when we travel . Makes the room dark...Up and installed in less than 2 minutes and folds...

Pros: darkness, easy to use, usefulness

Luckies Deluxe Scratch Map, H59 x W82cm

£24.00

Made a lovely gift !...We ordered a few of these as gifts for Christmas. I'ts a lovely thing to give a couple. ...A really...

Pros: quality, map, fun

William Morris At Home Strawberry Thief Medium Wash Bag

£16.00

Ideal item and a lovely gift for a friend with hand creams for her birthday....I had been searching JL's site for that 'ideal...

Pros: size, design, usefulness

Thule Subterra 55cm 8-Wheel Cabin Case

£299.99

If you're in the fence, I hope my review convinces you. Happy travels ....A nice travel 'Go Bag'. Bring only what you need....

Pros: size, organization, durability

Longchamp Le Pliage Original Large Shoulder Bag

£115.00

Great quality and good for travel ... Gift for my daughter - she loves it and says it's very comfortable to carry and really...

Pros: versatile, stylish, long lasting

Longchamp Le Pliage Original Shoulder Bag

£105.00

A lovely gift for a special birthday, beautiful, timeless and elegant....Excellent product which is roomy and lightweight...

John Lewis Travel Game Set

Was £16.00 , now £12.80

All in all though a brilliant set and will definitely be used on our travels this summer....Great travel games...Easy to...

John Lewis My First Luggage Tag & Passport Cover

Very nice gift for a babys christening ..something to make there first trips special ..and to keep as they get older ..lovely...

Go Travel 2 Memory Dreamer Pillow, Yellow

£19.99

Travel Pillow...Comfortable and stays in place Not compact and doesn't fold smaller so not really for in luggage wear or...

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

£250.00

Great travel cot...Lovely travel cot, it is very high quality. It is easy to fold down however quite difficult to fold mattress...

Pros: features, perfect size, plush

Longchamp Le Pliage Green Recycled Canvas XL Travel Bag

£150.00

Great bags I already have two large totes and have also bought several as gifts ...The bag seems well made and, especially...

Pros: size, quality, practical

Katie Loxton My First Passport Cover Baby Gift

£14.99

This adorable Katie Loxton passport holder is the perfect gift for every new mum and little jet-setter in your life! Designed...

Wildcard Games Backpacker - The Ultimate Travel Game

£9.99

Great stocking filler, or gift for someone off traveling... Travel round the world collecting countries and bonus experiences...

Go Travel Light Foldaway Travel Bag, Blue

I pack this with me on my travels abroad in case I want to bring anything back with me and it won't fit in my bag. ... Travel...

Neom Organics London Little Moments Gift Set

£63.00

Lovely Gift nicely packaged...This is a good gift as it gives people the chance to try different Neom products and they...

Pros: gift, smell, scents

Go Travel Mini Garment Iron

£29.99

Great travel iron...Lightweight, well designed, effective travel iron.... Travel iron...Very light and powerful steam travel...

Go Travel USB UK to USA Travel Adaptor

£12.99

Great Travel Accessory...This travel plug did a brilliant job of charging all my electronic items whilst in the US, it has...

Pros: charging, blue light, quality

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Strong Taiwan Quake Kills 9, Injures Hundreds

The earthquake was the most powerful to hit the island in 25 years. Dozens of people remained trapped, and many buildings were damaged, with the worst centered in the city of Hualien.

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• Hualien, Taiwan A landslide after the quake. Lam Yik Fei for The New York Times
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Books flew off shelves as a home shook. @Abalamindo via Storyful
• Taipei, Taiwan Passengers waiting at a train station as some services were suspended. Chiang Ying-Ying/Associated Press
• Hualien, Taiwan People are rescued from a building that had partially collapsed. TVBS via Associated Press
• Hualien, Taiwan Firefighters rescuing trapped residents from a building. CTI News via Reuters
• Taipei, Taiwan Students evacuated to a school courtyard after the earthquake. Lam Yik Fei for The New York Times
• Guishan Island, Taiwan Rocks tumbling down one side of an island popular for hiking. Lavine Lin via Reuters
• Hualien, Taiwan A building leaned to one side after the quake. Randy Yang via Associated Press
• Ishigaki, Okinawa, Japan Watching news on a rooftop of a hotel after a tsunami warning. Chang W. Lee/The New York Times
• Hualien, Taiwan Motorbikes damaged in the quake. TVBS via Associated Press
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Damage in an apartment Fabian Hamacher/Reuters
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Water cascading down a building during the quake. Wang via Reuters

Meaghan Tobin and Victoria Kim

Here’s what you need to know about the earthquake.

Taiwan was rocked Wednesday morning by the island’s strongest earthquake in a quarter century, a magnitude 7.4 tremor that killed at least nine people, injured more than 800 others and trapped dozens of people.

The heaviest damage was in Hualien County on the island’s east coast, a sleepy, scenic area prone to earthquakes. Footage from the aftermath showed a 10-story building there partially collapsed and leaning heavily to one side, from which residents emerged through windows and climbed down ladders, assisted by rescuers. Three hikers were killed after being hit by falling rocks on a hiking trail in Taroko National Park, according to the county government.

By late afternoon, officials said rescue efforts were underway to try to rescue 127 people who were trapped, many of them on hiking trails in Hualien.

One building in Changhua County, on the island’s west coast, collapsed entirely. The quake was felt throughout Taiwan and set off at least nine landslides, sending rocks tumbling onto Suhua Highway in Hualien, according to local media reports. Rail services were halted at one point across the island.

The earthquake, with an epicenter off Taiwan’s east coast, struck during the morning commute, shortly before 8 a.m. Taiwanese authorities said by 3 p.m., more than 100 aftershocks, many of them stronger than magnitude 5, had rumbled through the area.

In the capital, Taipei, buildings shook for over a minute from the initial quake. Taiwan is at the intersection of the Philippine Sea tectonic plate and the Eurasian plate, making it vulnerable to seismic activity. Hualien sits on multiple active faults, and 17 people died in a quake there in 2018.

Here is the latest:

The earthquake hit Taiwan as many people there were preparing to travel for Tomb Sweeping Day, a holiday across the Chinese-speaking world when people mourn the dead and make offerings at their graves. Officials warned the public to stay away from visiting tombs in mountain areas as a precaution, especially because rain was forecast in the coming days.

TSMC, the world’s biggest maker of advanced semiconductors, briefly evacuated workers from its factories but said a few hours later that they were returning to work. Chip production is highly precise, and even short shutdowns can cost millions of dollars.

Christopher Buckley

Lai Ching-te, Taiwan’s vice president, who is also its president-elect, visited the city of Hualien this afternoon to assess the destruction and the rescue efforts, a government announcement said. Mr. Lai, who will become president in May, said the most urgent tasks were rescuing trapped residents and providing medical care. Next, Mr. Lai said, public services must be restored, including transportation, water and power. He said Taiwan Railway’s eastern line could be reopened by Thursday night.

Meaghan Tobin

Taiwan’s fire department has updated its figures, reporting that nine people have died and 934 others have been injured in the quake. Fifty-six people in Hualien County remain trapped.

Shake intensity

Taiwan’s fire department reports that nine people have died and 882 others have been injured in Taiwan. In Hualien County, 131 people remain trapped.

Agnes Chang

Footage shows rocks tumbling down one side of Guishan Island, a popular spot for hiking known as Turtle Island, off the northeast coast of Taiwan. Officials said no fishermen or tourists were injured after the landslide.

The death toll has risen to nine, according to Taiwan government statistics.

Meaghan Tobin, Siyi Zhao

Officials in Taiwan warned residents to not visit their relatives' tombs, especially in the mountains, this weekend during the holiday, known as Ching Ming, meant to honor them. There had already been 100 aftershocks and the forecast called for rain, which could make travel conditions on damaged roads more treacherous.

Crews are working to reach people trapped on blocked roads. As of 1 p.m. local time, roads were impassable due to damage and fallen rock in 19 places, according to the Ministry of Transportation. At least 77 people remain trapped. A bridge before Daqingshui Tunnel appeared to have completely collapsed.

Taiwan’s worst rail disaster in decades — a train derailment in 2021 that killed 49 people — took place on the first day of the Tomb Sweeping holiday period that year, in the same region as the earthquake.

The earthquake hit Taiwan as many people here were preparing to travel for Tomb Sweeping Day, or Ching Ming, a day across the Chinese-speaking world when people mourn their dead, especially by making offerings at their graves. Now those plans will be disrupted for many Taiwanese.

The holiday weekend would typically see a spike in travel as people visit family across Taiwan. Currently, both rail transport and highways are blocked in parts of Hualien, said Transport Minister Wang Guo-cai. Work is underway to restore rail transportation in Hualien, and two-way traffic is expected to be restored at noon on Thursday, he said.

Taiwan’s preparedness has evolved in response to past quakes.

Taiwan’s earthquake preparedness has evolved over the past few decades in response to some of the island’s largest and most destructive quakes .

In the years after a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in central Taiwan killed nearly 2,500 people in 1999, the authorities established an urban search-and-rescue team and opened several emergency medical operation centers, among other measures .

And in 2018, after a quake in the eastern coastal city of Hualien killed 17 people and caused several buildings to partially collapse, the government ordered a wave of building inspections .

Taiwan has also been improving its early warning system for earthquakes since the 1980s. And two years ago, it rolled out new building codes that, among other things, require owners of vulnerable buildings to install ad-hoc structural reinforcements.

So how well prepared was Taiwan when a 7.4 magnitude quake struck near Hualien on Wednesday morning, killing at least seven people and injuring hundreds more?

Across the island, one building collapsed entirely, 15 others were in a state of partial collapse and another 67 were damaged, the island’s fire department said on Wednesday afternoon . Structural engineers could not immediately be reached for comment to assess that damage, or the extent to which building codes and other regulations might have either contributed to it or prevented worse destruction.

As for search-and-rescue preparedness, Taiwan is generally in very good shape, said Steve Glassey, an expert in disaster response who lives in New Zealand.

“ The skill sets, the capabilities, the equipment, the training is second to none,” said Dr. Glassey, who worked with Taipei’s urban search-and-rescue team during the response to a devastating 2011 earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. “They’re a very sharp operation.”

But even the best urban search-and-rescue team will be stretched thin if an earthquake causes multiple buildings to collapse, Dr. Glassey said.

Taiwan has options for requesting international help with search-and-rescue efforts. It could directly ask another country, or countries, to send personnel. And if multiple teams were to get involved, it could ask the United Nations to help coordinate them, as it did after the 1999 earthquake.

Pierre Peron, a spokesman for the United Nations, said on Wednesday afternoon that no such request had yet been made as a result of the latest earthquake.

Meaghan Tobin contributed reporting.

At least seven people have died and 736 have been injured as a result of the earthquake, according to Taiwan’s fire department. Another 77 people remained trapped in Hualien County, many of them on hiking trails. Search and rescue operations are underway, said the fire department.

Aftershocks of magnitudes between 6.5 and 7 were likely to occur over the next three or four days, said Wu Chien-fu, director of the Taiwanese Central Weather Administration’s Seismology Center, at a news conference.

As of 2 p.m., 711 people had been injured across Taiwan, the fire department said, and 77 people in Hualien County remained trapped. The four who were known to have died were in Hualien.

Victoria Kim

Hualien County is a quiet and scenic tourist destination.

Hualien County on Taiwan’s east coast is a scenic, sleepy tourist area tucked away from the island’s urban centers, with a famous gorge and aquamarine waters. It also happens to sit on several active faults , making it prone to earthquakes.

The county has a population of about 300,000, according to the 2020 census, about a third of whom live in the coastal city of Hualien, the county seat. It is one of the most sparsely populated parts of Taiwan. About three hours by train from the capital, Taipei, the city describes itself as the first place on the island that’s touched by the sun.

Hualien County is home to Taroko National Park, one of Taiwan’s most popular scenic areas. Visitors come to explore the Taroko Gorge, a striated marble canyon carved by the Liwu River, which cuts through mountains that rise steeply from the coast. The city of Hualien is a popular destination as a gateway to the national park.

According to the state-owned Central News Agency, three hikers were trapped on a trail near the entrance to the gorge on Wednesday, after the quake sent rocks falling. Two of them were found dead, the news agency said. Administrators said many roads within the park had been cut off by the earthquake, potentially trapping hikers, according to the report.

Earthquakes have rattled Hualien with some regularity. In 2018, 17 people were killed and hundreds of others injured when a magnitude 6.5 quake struck just before midnight, its epicenter a short distance northeast of the city of Hualien.

Many of the victims in that quake were in a 12-story building that was severely tilted, the first four floors of which were largely crushed, according to news reports from the time. The next year, the area was shaken by a 6.1-magnitude earthquake that injured 17 people.

The area has some of the highest concentrations of Taiwan’s aboriginal population, with several of the island’s Indigenous tribes calling the county home .

The county government in Hualien released a list of people that had been hospitalized with injuries, which stood at 118 people as of midday Wednesday.

Across Taiwan, one building fell down entirely, in Changhua County on the west coast, and 15 buildings partially collapsed, Taiwan’s fire department said. Another 67 buildings were damaged. One of the partially collapsed structures was a warehouse in New Taipei City where four people were rescued, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency. Another 12 were rescued at a separate New Taipei City building where the foundation sank into the ground.

Peggy Jiang, who manages The Good Kid, a children’s bookstore down the street from the partially collapsed Uranus Building in Hualien, said it was a good thing they had yet to open when the quake struck. The area is now blocked off by police and rescue vehicles. “Most people in Hualien are used to earthquakes,” she said. “But this one was particularly scary, many people ran in the street immediately afterward.”

Lin Jung, 36, who manages a shop selling sneakers in Hualien, said he had been at home getting ready to take his 16-month-old baby to a medical appointment when the earthquake struck. He said it felt at first like a series of small shocks, then “suddenly it turned to an intense earthquake shaking up and down.” The glass cover of a ceiling lamp fell and shattered. “All I could do was protect my baby.”

Chris Buckley ,  Paul Mozur ,  Meaghan Tobin and John Yoon

The earthquake damaged buildings and a highway in Hualien.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Taiwan on Wednesday damaged many buildings and a major highway in Hualien, a city on the eastern coast, and it knocked out power as it rocked the island.

Across Taiwan, the quake and its aftershocks caused one building to completely collapse and 15 others to partially collapse, according to Taiwan’s fire department. Sixty-seven other buildings sustained damage.

Two tall buildings in Hualien that sustained particularly extensive damage were at the center of the rescue efforts there. Most damage across the city was not life-threatening, said Huang Hsuan-wan, a reporter for a local news site.

Where buildings were reported damaged in Hualien City

“A lot of roads were blocked off. There are a lot of walls toppled over onto cars,” Derik du Plessis, 44, a South African resident of Hualien, said shortly after the earthquake. He described people rushing around the city to check on their houses and pick up their children. One of his friends lost her house, he said.

One of the damaged buildings in Hualien, a 10-story structure called the Uranus Building that housed a mix of homes and shops, was tilted over and appeared to be on the verge of collapse. Many of its residents managed to flee, but some were missing, said Sunny Wang, a journalist based in the city. Rescuers were trying to reach the basement, concerned that people might be trapped there.

Photographs of the initial damage in Hualien showed another building, a five-story structure, leaning to one side, with crushed motorcycles visible at the ground-floor level. Bricks had fallen off another high-rise, leaving cracks and holes in the walls.

The quake also set off at least nine landslides on Suhua Highway in Hualien, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency, which said part of the road had collapsed.

Taiwan’s fire department said four people had been killed in the earthquake.

Across Taiwan, 40 flights have been canceled or delayed because of the earthquake, according to Taiwan’s Central Emergency Operation Center.

President Tsai Ing-wen visited Taiwan’s national emergency response center this morning, where she was briefed about the response efforts underway by members of the ministries of defense, transportation, economic affairs and agriculture, as well as the fire department.

A look at Taiwan’s strongest earthquakes.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that hit Taiwan on Wednesday morning was the strongest in 25 years, the island’s Central Weather Administration said.

At least four people died after the quake struck off Taiwan’s east coast, officials said.

Here’s a look back at some of the major earthquakes in modern Taiwanese history:

Taichung, 1935

Taiwan’s deadliest quake registered a magnitude of 7.1 and struck near the island’s west coast in April 1935, killing more than 3,200 people, according to the Central Weather Administration. More than 12,000 others were injured and more than 50,000 homes were destroyed or damaged.

Tainan, 1941

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake in December 1941, which struck southwestern Taiwan, caused several hundred deaths, the United States Geological Survey said.

Chi-Chi, 1999

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake in central Taiwan killed nearly 2,500 people in September 1999. The quake, which struck about 90 miles south-southwest of Taipei, was the second-deadliest in the island’s history, according to the U.S.G.S. and the Central Weather Administration. More than 10,000 people were injured and more than 100,000 homes were destroyed or damaged.

Yujing, 2016

A 6.4 magnitude earthquake in February 2016 caused a 17-story apartment complex in southwestern Taiwan to collapse, killing at least 114 people . The U.S.G.S. later said that 90 earthquakes of that scale or greater had occurred within 250 kilometers, or 155 miles, of that quake’s location over the previous 100 years.

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