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Thinking of gift ideas for the travelers in your life can often be a bit tricky. However, as a full-time traveler myself, I’ve collected a lot of ideas for things I would have loved to receive as gifts, which I’m happy to share as inspiration.
We all have that friend or family member who starts organizing their next big trip as soon as they get back from their last one, or that backpacking friend who’s about to go off on an exciting adventure. If you’re planning to get them a travel lover gift, you’re probably thinking that it should be unique, compact, light, portable, and, above all, useful.
Finding a gift for travel enthusiasts that meets all these requirements may seem difficult, but my list of favorite travel presents should make things a little easier. It has everything from cool gadgets, camping equipment, and décor to essential items you might not have heard of but won’t want to live without. You might even find a few things to gift yourself (which is exactly what happened to me!) Are you ready to go shopping?
Best gifts for travelers
Some gifts for travel lovers are absolute must-haves for planning a trip. In this section, you’ll find foolproof travel presents that you’ll absolutely need before embarking on that next big adventure. Every gift giver is working with a different budget, so I’ve included inexpensive traveler’s gift ideas as well as other presents that work for more flexible budgets.
1. Travel backpack, a useful gift for travelers
One of the best gifts for people who love to travel is a travel backpack. Whether you’re embarking on a quick and easy hike, exploring a new city for a day, trying to pack light, or looking for a good carry-on bag, a backpack is a crucial travel item for every globetrotter.
Of course, there are lots of different backpacks, and the best choice for your favorite traveler will depend on their exact needs. In any case, I recommend choosing a backpack with comfortable, padded straps for added shoulder and back protection. It’s also useful to have lots of different compartments for storing a laptop or tablet, phone, keys, and other items.
If your favorite traveler often takes larger electronics on the go, it’s worth investing in a backpack with a hidden electronics pocket so that pickpockets won’t be able to simply lift a laptop or tablet out of the bag from behind. I also tend to look for bags that are water-resistant, have side pockets for carrying water bottles, and feature a USB-charging port so you can make sure your phone and headphones never run out of battery.
You’ll also want to think about what size of backpack you want to give. Is your favorite globetrotter going to be using this as a carry-on or taking it out for smaller daytrips and hikes? If they tend to go on a lot of low-cost airline flights, you should check whether the backpack’s dimensions meet the airline’s carry-on requirements.
Whichever backpack you ultimately choose, it will definitely be a thoughtful traveller present that your friends and family can get a lot of use out of as they travel the world.
2. Samsonite luggage, a great travel essential gift for traveling abroad
If your friend or family member is looking to travel comfortably and stylishly, you can’t go wrong with giving them high-quality luggage for their next trip. This top gift for world travelers might seem a bit obvious, but traveling with light, modern luggage makes a huge difference, especially if they’re used to lugging around an old, heavy suitcase that they just won’t get rid of because it technically still does the job.
The biggest difference between modern luggage and older suitcases are the efficient, lightweight wheels that can spin 360°, making it a breeze to transport even the heaviest suitcases just about anywhere. Your travel-minded gift recipient will also benefit from a tough, scratch-resistant suitcase structure, which will better protect what they’ve packed and make sure it doesn’t get damaged.
They’ll even get the security of a TSA suitcase lock so they can prevent anyone but TSA agents from opening their bags. Whatever size you choose, whether carry-on or checked, you can be sure you’re giving one of the best gifts for a traveler.
3. Travel duffel bag, a top gift for travel lovers
Another one of the top useful gifts for travellers is a duffel bag. This is a super versatile luggage option that can be used as a carry-on or checked bag, taken on weekend getaways and road trips, and stowed overhead on bus and train rides. It’s also a great gift for a travelling man who likes sports and wants to easily take his gear on the go.
I recommend finding a duffel with comfortable, adjustable straps that you can wear both cross-body and as a backpack for even more versatility. It’s also best if the duffel is made of a durable material so that it holds up with lots of travel and doesn’t tear or break in the middle of your trip. A water-resistant material is perfect, since it will keep your items safe and dry in all kinds of weather conditions.
4. Passport wallet, a nice Christmas gift for travellers
A passport wallet is one of those gifts for travel lovers that people often forget they need or would never get for themselves. We all bring our travel documents on just about every trip and should have a way to keep them protected and safe, so a passport wallet is one of the most practical frequent traveler gift ideas.
The wallet not only helps you avoid rips and tears in your passport, which can impact your ability to travel, but also prevents your passport from getting water damaged. Many wallets also contain slots and compartments for storing credit cards, IDs, important travel documents, and more, so you can keep everything organized and in one place.
If you’re on a tight budget, this is one of the best cheap travel gifts that is still very thoughtful and will be much appreciated. It’s also easy to customize, since you’ll have your pick of wallet colors and designs.
5. Set of packing cubes, one of the best frequent traveler gifts
If you haven’t yet decided on the best gift for the traveler in your life, a set of packing cubes is another great option you should consider. This is one of those gift ideas for international travelers that makes the drudgery of packing so much more enjoyable.
You’ll not only use your suitcase space much more efficiently, but also be able to find what you need much faster while you’re traveling. I find it most helpful to organize each cube by clothing category (shirts, pants, etc.) and have a separate cube for dirty clothes so they don’t get mixed in with your clean things.
If you’re looking for useful gifts for travelers, these cubes are a perfect option, especially since they’re quite affordable, so you won’t have to spend a fortune on them.
6. Vacuum storage bags, a practical gift idea for traveling abroad
Vacuum storage bags are one of the best gifts for travelers out there. If you need a travel gift for women, these bags are the ideal choice for that globetrotting friend who likes to bring plenty of changes of clothes to take the best vacation photos. They’re also a great gift for that friend who’s moving abroad or planning a long trip and needs to pack lots of clothes in limited space.
Whether you’re transporting extra bulky items or storing them while you move, these bags are incredibly useful for saving space, since they come in several different sizes and can hold a lot. They’re also reusable so you can use them over and over.
Thanks to the portable electric air pump that comes with the bags, you can easily pack the bags full and take all the air out to make them compact whether you’re at home or on the go.
7. Hanging toiletry organizer, a cool gift for travelers and couples
Gifts for avid travelers can be hard to come up with, since it’s easy to assume that they already have everything they need. However, many frequent travelers could still use a hanging toiletry organizer so they have all of their bathroom essentials in one place.
This handy bag has plenty of compartments so you can keep both small and large items organized. It’s also water resistant, light, and compact, so it’s easy to transport. There’s even a hook at the top of the bag so you can hang it off the bathroom door or in a locker. If you want to stop forgetting your shampoo in the hotel shower, this is the perfect travel lover gift.
8. Travel toiletry bottles, a cheap travel gift for women
We’ve had plenty of times where we’ve gone through security at the airport, only to realize that our toiletries were bigger than travel-sized and couldn’t come with us (I’m sure this has happened to you too!) Or, even worse, we’ve gotten to our destination and opened our suitcases to find that a shampoo bottle or tube of toothpaste has exploded over all our clothes.
Make sure neither of these scenarios happen to your favorite traveler by gifting them travel toiletry bottles, one of the best gifts for world travelers. Besides being leakproof, these bottles are easy to fill with your most-used products, and you’ll know for sure that you’re not going over the size limit on liquids.
Of course, the first products you’ll think of filling these bottles with are things like soap and shampoo. However, you can also fill them with sauces, salad dressing, honey, or even baby food, since these bottles are made of food-grade silicone.
If you’re going in on a group gift or want to put together a larger travel gift for a friend, gifting these travel toiletry bottles with the hanging toiletry organizer will give your friend or family member everything they need.
9. Travel towel, a good inexpensive travel-themed gift idea
Another great gift for a travel enthusiast is a travel towel. This isn’t just any towel; it’s made of microfiber so it’s super absorbent but dries really quickly so you can pack it back up in almost no time.
If your favorite traveler likes to go camping, do a lot of outdoor activities, or stay in hostels where they don’t give you towels, this is one of those great travel presents that I’m sure they’ll love. On top of that, these towels are generally quite affordable, so you can easily add them onto another gift (they’d work well with the toiletry bottles and/or toiletry bag).
10. Travel size laundry bag, one of the best gifts for someone who wants to travel
A travel-size laundry bag is something you’ll want to have ahead of every long-term trip, which is why it’s one of the best gifts for someone who loves to travel. Whether you’re heading to the laundromat or doing laundry at the hotel, having a laundry bag will help make the process simpler and much more organized.
Of course, a laundry bag will also keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean things, so you won’t have to worry about them getting mixed up. The bag I recommend can hold up to 6.6 pounds of laundry, which is quite a bit, and even has a carabiner so you can hang it off your backpack or suitcase.
11. Luggage scale, a perfect gift for a travel lover
Any traveler who likes to pack a lot of things without having to pay overweight baggage fees will appreciate a luggage scale. Airlines are quite strict about luggage weight limits and will sometimes even weigh carry-ons, so this is a good present for travel lovers who want to avoid surprises.
A scale doesn’t take up much room, is very light, and will save you so much money, so it’s worth having and definitely belongs on any list of ideas for travel gifts. It’s also super easy to use, since all you have to do is lift your luggage to weigh it.
12. Air Tags, a high-tech travel lover gift idea
If your favorite traveler has an iPhone, AirTags are a must-have travel themed gift for them. To use the Tags, just put them in any valuables you want to keep track of, like a purse or checked bag. The Tags track your items’ location using the Find My Network, so you’ll get notifications on your phone whenever the item’s location changes.
You can also play a sound on the Tags’ built-in speaker if you’re having trouble finding your items. Travelers who frequently check their bags will appreciate receiving this travel essentials gift, since it means they’ll always know where their bags are. Having the Tags also adds an extra level of security when you store your luggage in a hotel or on a train or bus, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worrying about whether your luggage is safe.
On the other hand, if your connecting flight is delayed, you can track where your luggage goes and make sure that everything’s under control, saving you time and headaches.
13. Luggage tags, a good, inexpensive gift for someone who’s traveling abroad
Another one of the best useful travel gifts is luggage tags, especially for long trips, journeys with multiple layovers, and routes where you take multiple forms of transportation. All you do is put important contact information on your tag, including your name, address, phone number, and email, so that someone can easily get in touch with you if you lose your luggage. Tags also add a personal touch to your suitcases so you can recognize them more easily at baggage claim.
If you decide to get this gift, choose tags that are made of a flexible material and have a loop made of stainless steel, so the tag doesn’t rip or fall off as soon as you put it on your bag. This is one of the best gift ideas for travelers if you have a limited budget, since it’s one of the most affordable on this list.
Travel gifts for long flights
Now that we’ve covered the travel essentials gifts, we’re going to focus on travel presents for long flights. In this section, you’ll find lots of travel lovers gift ideas that are geared toward making long waits and layovers more enjoyable and entertaining.
14. AirPods, a traveling present for movie and music lovers
One of the gifts for people who travel that’s changed my life are my AirPods. I love being able to listen to my favorite songs while I watch the landscape go by through the train window or when I experience long waits at the airport. Nowadays, I can’t travel without them, and I bet your favorite traveler won’t be able to either once you gift them these earbuds.
Besides being light and comfy, these earbuds offer amazing sound quality and noise cancellation, so you won’t hear anything beyond your favorite song. This feature is essential in crowded places like train stations, airport terminals, and on public transport. You can even customize the fit of your earbuds, so no sound leaks out.
15. Travel pillow, a top travel essential gift for anyone
A travel pillow is one of those gifts for travelers that will help you relax and enjoy layovers, bus and train rides, and long flights just a little bit more. If you’re someone who struggles to sleep on flights, having a travel pillow might finally make a difference and allow you to get some much-needed shut-eye on a red-eye.
A lot of times, we pack in a lot of attractions and museums when we’re traveling, so we have to make every chance we can sleep count. A travel pillow that’s comfortable enough will let you sleep peacefully so you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready for a long day of exploring.
You can choose different shapes, sizes, and colors, but I recommend paying close attention to what the pillow is made of, how much it weighs, and how big it is. My personal travel pillow is a U-shaped memory foam pillow that provides a lot of neck support and is soft yet durable.
16. Sleep eye mask, a thoughtful small gift for travelers
If you’re looking for one of the best small travel gifts, a sleep mask is a great budget-friendly idea. If you need to sleep at the airport, on a red-eye, in a hotel with faulty blinds, or any other place where light interferes with your sleep, this mask is an absolute godsend.
Dan and I have been able to find lots of cheap hotels, but sometimes, we get there and find out that our room doesn’t even have curtains! At least now we’ve learned our lesson to always bring our sleep masks so we can get a good night’s sleep.
I recommend opting for a silk mask, so it doesn’t irritate your eyes. A good mask should also have an adjustable elastic strap so you can tighten it and make sure it doesn’t fall off in the middle of the night. Just pick a color that you know your favorite traveler will love and you’ve got the perfect Christmas gift for travelers that you can put in their stocking.
17. Kindle, a fantastic gift for travel enthusiasts who like to read
Reading is one of my biggest passions besides travel, so I always have my Kindle on hand. Once I started traveling more frequently, an e-reader was the easiest way for me to travel light and still bring all the books I want to read on my trips. In fact, I have access to just about any book I can think of, all on an ultra-light and portable device.
If you’re looking for gifts for frequent travelers, your favorite bookish traveler will definitely appreciate an e-reader. One of the Kindle’s coolest features is that its display looks like real paper and prevents glare, so you won’t hurt your eyes, even if you’re reading in the sun. It’s also waterproof, so you won’t need to panic if it gets a little wet at the beach or in the bathtub.
Best of all, the battery lasts for up to 10 weeks, so you won’t need to charge it every time you want to use it. If you’re only going away for a month or so, you can just do one long charge and then you’ll be all set for the rest of your trip.
Most useful gifts for travelers
Sometimes we’re so focused on finding unique gifts for travel lovers that we forget how important the essentials are. Some of these useful travel gifts seem so obvious that travelers forget them until they realize they really need them. That’s why I’ve given you this little list so you can have a look and remind yourself.
18. Heymondo Annual Insurance, a unique gift for avid travelers going abroad
Getting the best travel insurance should be an absolute must when you’re planning any trip. Of course, no one wants to think about all the things that might go wrong while you’re traveling, but accidents do happen, so it’s always best to be prepared.
If you need medical attention abroad, medical costs without insurance can be super high, so it’s much better to have coverage and not need it than to get seriously injured and have to pay exorbitant fees out of pocket. On top of that, travel insurance is a pretty original idea, so it’s a perfect creative travel themed gift.
If your favorite traveler is constantly on the road, I highly recommend getting them Heymondo’s annual travel insurance, which we’ve had for years. This insurance covers all the trips you take during a year that are shorter than 90 days, so it’s the ideal birthday gift for a traveler you want to look out for.
Of course, there’s also plenty of affordable travel insurance options if you don’t want to spend a fortune. You can even get a 5% discount on Heymondo insurance to save more.
19. Travel money belt, a great travel-related gift idea for him
Anyone looking to give a more traditional and affordable travel gift for men should opt for a travel money belt. In my case, I always carry the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards when I’m traveling, so I can avoid carrying too much cash and making myself a target.
However, there are definitely some places that don’t really take credit cards and where you need to carry a fair bit of cash. In that case, this money belt will help you keep not only cash and cards but also IDs and other documents protected and safely stowed on your person.
If you’re looking for an affordable gift for someone who loves travelling, this is the perfect option, since they’ll be able to enjoy their adventures without worrying about whether their valuables are safe. I suggest choosing a belt that’s water resistant, durable, and has a buckle that’s easy to use to make going through airport security a breeze.
20. Swiss Army knife, a travelling present with lots of useful tools for men
A Swiss Army knife is a classic gift for a travel enthusiast for good reason. It has just about everything you need in case of emergencies, which is why it’s such a popular travel gift for boyfriends, friends, hikers, and backpackers.
Most Swiss Army knives include a toothpick, tweezers, nail clipper, nail file, scissors, small blade, and key ring, among other things. Regardless of the features on your knife of choice, make sure it’s a good quality multi-purpose tool that won’t bend or break. You can rest assured that this will be a present for travel lovers that’s much appreciated. Just don’t forget to put it in your checked luggage when you fly!
21. Collapsible water bottle, a great gift for avid travelers that’s inexpensive
A collapsible water bottle is exactly what to get someone who loves to travel but always forgets to drink water. Whether you’re exploring a city, going hiking, or just looking to stay hydrated, having a water bottle on hand is a must. Buying single-use plastic water bottles creates unnecessary plastic waste, and lots of travel destinations that care about sustainability are starting to ban them.
There are so many different colors and styles to choose from, but the great thing about this particular water bottle is that it doesn’t take up too much space, which will come in handy when you’re trying to pack. This bottle is also made from food-grade silicone so you can store either hot or cold liquids in it without worrying about your health.
Even better, this bottle is shatter resistant, so it won’t crack or break, and leakproof, so it won’t spill all over and ruin your things.
22. Travel mug, what to get a traveler who’s a coffee lover
We all have a favorite mug that we use for our morning coffee, but unfortunately, that mug is one of the first things we have to give up when we start traveling the world. However, this particular travel-related gift idea is one that will make you feel a bit more at home even when you’re far away from it. This travel mug will help you have a comfy, cozy morning before a big day of adventures and exploring.
The best travel mugs are stainless steel, which prevents them from getting dented or punctured when you’re bringing them all over the world. They should also have a sturdy lid, so you don’t have to worry about leaks or spills. This one is dishwasher safe and has great insulation so it’s easy to clean and will keep your drinks at the right temperature for a long time.
Small but useful electronic gifts for travelers
To continue this list of gift ideas for a world traveler, I have a few suggestions for electronic gifts that are worth a look. Some of these are cheap travel gifts, so you won’t have to break the bank, but you’ll also find a few high-end options that are perfect for a special occasion or big treat.
23. International power adapter, a must-have gift for a frequent traveler
An international power adapter is one of the best gift ideas for travellers, since it’s one of those items we often forget we need until we arrive at our destination. Besides working in absolutely every country, power adapters these days come with plenty of USB ports, so all you need to charge your devices is your charging cable. You’ll save weight and space in your luggage since you won’t need tons of adapters or additional plugs.
If you’re one of those people who always forgets to charge their devices (like me!), I suggest getting an adapter with a “rapid charge” feature. That way, you’ll only need to spend a few minutes charging your phone or camera before you get back to exploring.
Something to think about before you choose which charger to get is how many charging ports it has. I personally have one with 5 slots so that I can charge everything I need with just one plug. That feature has definitely saved me on more than one occasion, so I can’t recommend this travelling essentials gift enough.
24. Multiport charging block, a perfect travel Christmas gift and stocking stuffer idea
This multiport charging block is the perfect gift for a traveling friend who has lots of electronic devices and struggles to keep them all charged. This block will save you the headache of trying to find enough plugs to charge all your devices and even allow to charge your devices at the same time as your friends and family.
You’ll be able to charge up to 4 devices at once, and benefit from the block’s smart chip, which prevents your phone from overheating and overcharging. That way, your devices’ batteries will continue to stay healthy for much longer.
In my opinion, though, the best feature is the rapid charge. If you have an iPhone, your battery can go from 0% to 50% in just 30 minutes, which is an absolute lifesaver when you have a packed schedule full of exciting activities.
25. Power bank, one of the coolest travel gifts for tech lovers
I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve wanted to take a photo, but my phone’s been out of battery. On intense days of hitting all the tourist attractions we possibly can, we of course use our phones for absolutely everything, from getting to that famous monument with Google Maps and finding the perfect restaurant for dinner to buying tickets for that cool art museum and texting our friends the best photos of our trip.
If you don’t want your favorite traveler to experience that sinking feeling of a dead phone, a power bank is a perfect gift for travel lovers. You won’t even need to stop exploring to charge your devices, since you can just stick to your plans while they charge in your bag or pocket.
I recommend going for an ultra-light power bank so it’s easy to carry around. It should also have a high amount of power, around 10,000 mAH, so it can go through various charges throughout the day. Keep in mind that not all power banks can charge smaller devices, like headphones and smartwatches, so be sure to look for a power bank that has that capacity if you want to charge those types of electronics.
26. Solar panel charger, a fantastic eco-friendly travel lover gift
One of the coolest travel gifts that will definitely stand out from the rest is a solar panel charger. If your traveling friend is planning to go hiking or camping far from civilization, they’ll love this eco-friendly present for travellers, which will help them keep all their devices charged.
This charger is perfect for any outdoor trip or activity where you won’t have access to a power grid. I usually hook this charger to my backpack so I can charge my phone as I hike, since the charger features a convenient carabiner. Another great feature is the charger’s water resistance, so you won’t have to worry about having it out in light rain. This charger is somewhat big, but it’s light and folds up to easily fit in your backpack, so it’s super portable and convenient.
27. Portable Bluetooth speaker, one of the best gifts for friends who travel
A portable Bluetooth speaker is another one of the best travel birthday gifts that makes a great present for other occasions too. All you have to do is connect your phone via Bluetooth to be able to listen to your favorite songs at top volume wherever you go.
This particular speaker stands out because it’s light, easy to use, and water-resistant, but there are also tons of other options to choose from. Once charged, this speaker gives you five hours of music, which is useful for parties or days where you just want to have a long solo dance party. If you still don’t know which travel present to go for, this is a fantastic choice, particularly for music lovers.
28. Electronics organizer travel case, a top gift for a travel enthusiast
I generally keep all of my charging cables in a small bag, but they usually end up getting tangled and breaking so then I get new ones and the cycle begins again. If you don’t already have an electronics organizer and want to avoid my storage mistakes, consider getting this gift for someone about to travel.
If you’re traveling with your laptop, camera, and phone, you probably have a lot of cables, chargers, and adapters to keep track of, so this case will be a big help. It not only has compartments for organizing your cables, but also has pockets for your flash drives, memory cards, portable chargers, hard drives, and more.
With this case, your electronics will be easy to find and protected from wear and tear. It’s even water-resistant, so there’s no need to worry about rain or some spilled water ruining all your gear.
29. Solis Lite Hotspot, a thoughtful birthday gift for a travel lover
One of the best gifts for traveling couples and digital nomads is the Solis Lite Hotspot. This portable Wi-Fi device is ideal for travelers who need to stay connected no matter where in the world they find themselves. This hotspot device is so small that it fits in the palm of your hand, so, fortunately, it won’t add a lot of weight to your luggage.
If you’re working while you’re abroad and want to make sure you have internet while you travel, this hotspot is an excellent option, especially since it isn’t always convenient to stick to restaurant or hotel Wi-Fi. One of the hotspot’s best features is that you can connect up to 10 devices to it at once, which is perfect if you’re traveling with friends or family.
With a full charge, the hotspot’s battery lasts up to 16 hours. The hotspot also works as a power bank, so you can get two great travel lover gifts for the price of one. This isn’t the most affordable gift for a frequent traveler, especially since they’ll still have to pay for a data plan, but it’s definitely worth it.
If you want a cheaper option and only need internet on your phone, you can always get an Holafly eSIM. This SIM card has great coverage in just about every country and is totally digital, so it’s super easy to set up, since you get it right on your phone. On top of that, you can save even more money with a 5% Holafly discount, one of the best travel discounts out there.
30. Garmin Vivoactive 4S, one of the best gifts for a world traveler
If you’re still not sure what to gift for someone travelling abroad, consider the Garmin Vivoactive 4S. This smartwatch has a GPS and a heart rate monitor, can control your music, receives phone notifications, and is water-resistant, so it’s ideal for sporty and adventurous travelers.
It even tracks your route when you go hiking, which is one of the watch functions I personally use the most. Once I’ve completed trails, I can see the entire route on my laptop, including elevation gain, times, and distances. This smartwatch also has useful security features, since you can send your real-time location to friends and family, so they’ll always know where you’re hiking or camping.
31. Mini projector, a unique gift for travel lovers
A mini projector is one of the most original and fun travel gifts on this list. If your favorite traveler is a movie buff, just wants to keep up with their current TV shows, needs to do presentations while they’re traveling, or likes to see their photos on a big screen, this is one of those travel gift guide ideas they’ll absolutely love.
With this projector, you’ll be able to project videos and images up to 150 inches and connect your camera, computer, or storage drive, so it’s super versatile. It’s also got a built-in speaker so you can easily listen to all the videos you watch and a rechargeable battery that lasts 3 hours after a charge.
Other high-end electronic gifts for travelers
Practical travel gifts for friends aren’t the only options out there. There are also plenty of fun travel gifts you can give to friends and family, including some great high-end electronic options. Here are a few more ideas:
32. Tablet, one of the best high-tech travel Christmas gifts
Treat your favorite traveler to a tablet, a very generous gift for someone who loves to travel. Laptops can be bulky and heavy, so a tablet is the perfect travel alternative, since it’s light, compact, and can do just about everything a laptop can.
You’ll be able to do everything from watching your favorite TV shows and answering emails to writing diary entries about your trip and taking pictures with the built-in camera. There are lots of different tablet models to choose from, but I definitely suggest paying attention to the tablet’s storage capacity, processing speed, and other features so you can pick the one that best suits your needs.
33. MacBook Pro, a generous gift idea for travel lovers
If you’re thinking about bringing a laptop on your travels, a MacBook Pro is by far the best option. It’s one of the best travel gift ideas because it has a high-quality display and incredible audio output, as well as high-performance processing speeds that will easily last you through a whole day of work or play.
It’s also a great tool for researching important trip information, creating itineraries, and making trip planning simple, so it’s a cool gift for travelers going on longer trips. Choose the model that best fits your needs and budget, but rest assured that with a Mac, you’ll be getting a high-quality product. If anything goes wrong or you need any help, you’ll also benefit from great customer service and technical support that you can access all over the world.
34. Laptop case, a nice gift for a traveling friend that’s relatively inexpensive
If you decide to bring your laptop on your next trip, a laptop case is an absolute must-have to keep your device safe and prevent damage. I think this particular case is one of the best because it protects your laptop from scuffs and scratches and absorbs impacts from drops and bumps.
It also includes an internal strap to ensure your laptop is firmly secured and high-quality zippers that will hold up through all your adventures. Its many roomy pockets have more than enough space for your charger, mouse, cables, and other accessories. For me, this is one of those gifts for friends who like to travel that is sure to be a hit. Just make sure that the case you choose is big enough for your favorite traveler’s laptop; laptops and cases come in many different sizes.
35. Portable laptop charger, a perfect travel lover gift for digital nomads
A portable laptop charger is another one of the best gifts for avid travelers and digital nomads. Lots of times, when we’re traveling, we forget to charge our laptop, or we can’t find a plug when we need it most. Fortunately, with a laptop power bank, you won’t have to worry about your laptop dying while you’re out and about.
I recommend getting a charger with a quick charge feature, so you won’t have to wait hours for a full charge. The charger should also have a minimum of 20,000 mAH so it will last you multiple charges and of course be as light as possible, so it won’t weigh you down on the go.
36. iPhone 15 Pro, a very generous birthday gift for a traveler
An iPhone 15 is one of those great gifts for travel lovers that they’ll appreciate forever. It’s currently one of the best phones on the market and stands out for its high-quality camera, which is perfect for photography lovers and travelers who want to get stellar photos on all of their trips.
There are lots of different storage capacities you can go for, and each capacity has a slightly different price, but you can still expect to spend a fair bit of money on this phone regardless of whether you choose 128 GB or 1 TB. That’s why this is one of those useful gifts for travelling that’s best suited for flexible budgets.
This phone also has a rapid and efficient processor, so you can be sure your long videocalls home won’t drop, even when you’re far away. It’s just a little way of making you feel a bit more at home while you travel.
37. Cell phone tripod, a gift idea for international travelers who take lots of photos
Solo travelers or people who don’t want to leave anyone out of the group photo will appreciate a cell phone tripod, one of the top traveling couple gifts. It doesn’t just work for your phone; you can also adjust it to hold other cameras like GoPros and more.
You’ll want to choose a tripod with durable, flexible legs, so you can be sure it won’t fall over and break your phone or camera. That said, I recommend checking the tripod’s specifications so you know how much weight it can hold and whether it’s non-skid. The tripod should also come with a wireless remote so you can easily take pictures and videos from far away at the exact moment you want.
38. Smartphone stabilizer, a good gift idea for travelers who like to take videos
A smartphone stabilizer is a great gadget that tech lovers will appreciate receiving, so it’s another traveler gift you may want to consider. Its smart tracking feature allows you to pick a person or area to focus on and automatically track it with steady shots, even when your subject moves quickly or suddenly.
This accessory is light and easy to transport, so it’s a useful present for a traveller who’s sporty, does lots of outdoor activities, or just needs to travel light. If you’re a selfie fan, the extendable arm will give you an ideal angle to capture you and everyone you’re traveling with. The stabilizer even has a side wheel that makes it easy to zoom and focus.
39. Photo printer, one of the best gift ideas for travel lovers in 2024
Another great gift for travelers that’s sure to be appreciated is a photo printer. This small device lets you print photos instantly when you have your phone connected to it. I’m impressed by how high quality the prints are – they look practically professional-level!
To use the printer, you’ll just need to download an app on your phone so you can select the photos you want to print. You can add filters, borders, or even your own doodles to the photos, but either way, your photos will print as soon as you’ve selected them.
Best of all, this fun travel gift prints your photos in color on fingerprint-proof and water-resistant paper, so you know you’ll be getting pictures that are made to last.
40. Fujifilm Instax Mini instant film camera, a great travel gift for a best friend
Aim, press the shutter, and bam! Now you have an instant photo keepsake of your favorite memories. An instant film camera is undoubtedly one of the most unique gifts for travel lovers and will keep being used and appreciated beyond adventures abroad.
This camera is an easy way to capture the best moments of your trip in a more fun and creative way than a phone would. On our last week-long trip to Bali, we decided to take instant photos of our favorite landscapes and compile them in an album when we got back from traveling. It was an amazing project that we really enjoyed, and we loved spending Sunday afternoons traveling vicariously through our photo collection.
Another reason this camera is a top gift idea for travellers is because you can give instant photos away to friends you meet during your travels for them to remember you by. Best of all, this camera is light and easy to carry, so it won’t be a huge burden to bring along on your world travels.
41. GoPro, a great travel enthusiast gift idea
We all know a traveler who’s especially adventurous and sporty and would consider a GoPro a perfect gift for a travel lover. Of course, there are tons of different cameras out there, but GoPros are specifically designed for optimal stabilization when shooting sports and other outdoor activities. They also produce high-quality images and videos of even the most intense and bumpy adventures.
You’ll end up with not only impressive images but also super smooth video footage of even the most constant motion. GoPros have a wider field of view than most cameras do, which is perfect for capturing panoramas of mountains, landscapes, and more. Their top-notch features make them hands-down one of the best gifts for someone who likes travelling.
One of the functions I’ve used the most is the underwater video feature, since it’s waterproof up to depths of 33 feet (10 meters). If you’re a big scuba diver or you like to dive even deeper, you can get a special case to protect your GoPro, but 33 feet of depth is plenty for most photographers and videographers.
42. DJI Mini 3 Pro, what to get a traveler who loves aerial photography
One of the most high-tech travel related gift ideas is a drone like the DJI Mini 3 Pro. Although it’s a great option, you should also keep in mind that many countries have laws that restrict the number and type of drones that are allowed to enter the country. As such, you should always check the laws of your travel destination ahead of time, so you don’t end up having trouble at security or border control.
This particular drone model weighs less than 250 grams, so it rarely requires a prior application process to bring it through customs. It captures ultra-sharp images, and you can expect the same quality in your images and videos whether you take them during the day or night. Among other great features, it’s highly wind-resistant, so you can relax and keep taking photos and videos even when the weather isn’t quite as calm as you’d like.
43. Magnetic wireless car charger mount, the best gift for someone traveling on a road trip
Any traveler going on a road trip will appreciate having this car charger mount, a travel essentials gift for any long car ride. This mount is the perfect driving companion, since it adapts to any kind of car. It’s especially important to keep your phone fully charged on impromptu trips so you can deal with any unforeseen circumstances, reserve accommodation, make calls, and much more.
This mount has lots of cool features, including the ability to stick to any flat surface, so you can pop it right on your dashboard. If you’re renting a car and don’t want to leave any marks from the mount, you don’t have to worry; this mount is super easy to take off and won’t leave a trace behind.
If you’d prefer not to stick the mount on the dashboard, you can also clip it to your AC vents. Additionally, the mount’s 360° joint is flexible enough to allow you to comfortably adjust the angle of your phone so you can easily see exactly what you need to.
44. Car charger, one of the best traveler’s gift ideas for road tripping
If you’re thinking of getting a cheap rental car and heading down Route 66 or some other scenic highway, a car charger can make a big difference for your road trip. I highly recommend this small traveler’s gift for anyone in your life who’s planning a big road trip, which might even be you!
When we spend a lot of time traveling, we can be so busy exploring that we run out of time to charge our devices, so a car charger is the easiest way to solve that problem. This charger is heat-resistant so it’ll keep your devices safe and can be plugged into any car with a cigarette lighter. It even has special spring technology, so your device keeps charging on even the bumpiest roads.
The charger has 5 USB ports, perfect for letting everyone in the family or friend group charge their phone. If you’re sitting in the back seat, don’t worry about being left out. The charger’s 5-foot charging cable means you’ll be able to charge your devices, too.
45. Car power inverter, a light, compact gift for people who travel
If you’re on the road and need to charge devices that are even bigger than a phone, like laptops, cameras, or tablets, I recommend a car power inverter. This is a great gift for travel lovers who are looking to stay connected on their hiking or camping trips.
We often rent RVs in the US, and for us, a power inverter is a trip essential, since it lets us get enough power for all of our electronics so we can keep working on the road. I recommend paying extra attention to the inverter’s safety features, so you know your electronics won’t get fried from overheating or being overcharged.
Travel gifts for travel photographers
One of our biggest passions is photographing the Milky Way, so over the years, we’ve created our own Milky Way Photography course and accumulated a lot of gift ideas for travellers who love photography from items we’ve tried and tested ourselves. In this section, we’ll cover the best travel gifts that will impress any photography aficionado.
46. Photo tour, the best traveller present for travel and photography lovers
The best gift for travelers who love photography is hands down a photo tour. If you’re not sure what they are, these organized group tours take you to explore beautiful places while you improve your photography skills, the perfect combination of traveling and photography for people who love both.
These types of tours are geared toward photographers of any and all levels, so there’s no need to worry if you’re not sure what level your friend is at. Just keep in mind that these tours can involve little sleep, or going out in less than ideal conditions, like wind, rain, and snow, so make sure your favorite traveler is really passionate about taking incredible landscape photos.
Still, in my opinion, this is an experience that’s totally worth it, since you’ll be able to meet photographers from all over the world, learn new photography techniques, and visit some of the most remote and exciting places on earth. Ultimately, a photo tour is definitely something to consider as a gift for a frequent traveller.
47. Travel camera, an essential travel gift for photography lovers
A travel camera is a fantastic gift for world travelers that works for many different types of people. Whether you want to buy a camera with the best specs will depend on your photography skills and how committed you are to working on them, but, of course, the camera doesn’t make the photographer.
In our case, when we chose our photography gear, we opted for this mirrorless camera that’s compact and produces super high-quality images. In my opinion, this is one of the best cameras for photographing the Milky Way that’s currently on the market, and it’s never let me down.
If you’re not sure how to choose the best travel photography gear, either for you or for your favorite traveler, I recommend first deciding whether you want a mirrorless or DSLR camera and then broadening your search based on your photography goals and needs.
48. Wide angle lens, one of the best travel presents for photography fans
A wide-angle lens is the best gift for someone travelling who loves taking pictures of landscapes and architecture. If you’re wondering how to make your shots more creative, a wide-angle lens will let you play with close-ups and different backgrounds, as well as include as much of the scene as possible.
In my opinion, this option is the best wide-angle lens for my camera model. However, even if your camera is a different brand, there’ll be a lens with similar specs that will work for you. The most important thing is to look for a focal range that’s between 14 and 70 mm, which is what makes it a wide-angle lens. If you don’t plan to use it for nighttime photography, an f4 aperture is all you need.
49. Mid focal lens, one of the best gift ideas for traveling
If you want a sure bet when you look for a gift for travel enthusiasts, go for a mid focal lens. This is a super versatile lens option, as it can be used for many different types of photography, including street photography, portraits, landscapes, and much more.
I use this particular lens, which works great with my camera, but I’m sure your camera brand will have its own lens with similar specs. Just look for one with a focal range between 24 and 105 mm or something similar. Just like with the wide-angle lens, an f4 aperture is fine if you’ll just be taking photos during the day.
50. Telephoto lens, a big gift for someone about to travel abroad
If you’re looking for an even more specific present for travel lovers, a telephoto lens is a great option. This lens works for photographing small details, wildlife, sports, or portraits, so it’s a useful idea if you don’t know what to get for your favorite photography-loving traveler.
To capture objects in motion, you’ll need a lens that’s both quick and sharp, so this one is perfect. We’ve used this lens for many of our wildlife trips, including our Patagonia photo tours, and it works great. It’s so good that we were even able to capture a photo of a wild puma on a mountain far away. This lens takes exceptionally sharp images, and its bokeh is very pretty.
51. Camera travel tripod, a perfect gift for travelers who love to take photos
Another one of the best gifts for the travel lover in your life is a camera tripod. Of course it’s useful for taking various types of travel photos, but it’s also one of the most important accessories for landscape photographers and those who do a lot of long exposure night photography, since you need complete stability.
To choose the right tripod, you’ll need to keep in mind factors like the weight and size of the camera. As such, if you’re planning on getting this as a Christmas gift for a traveler, you’ll have to be super sneaky to find out the recipient’s camera info without spoiling the surprise.
Tripods can be made of many different types of material, including aluminum, plastic, and carbon fiber, but I suggest going for carbon fiber since it’s a light, durable material. You’ll also want your tripod to be compact so it’s easy to transport.
52. Travel ball head, a frequent traveler gift idea that pairs well with a tripod
A travel tripod ball head is a camera accessory that gives you more precise control when you’re adjusting your camera to find the angle you’re looking for. There are two types: ball heads, which you can adjust to various angles, and pan heads, which have several adjustable levers to achieve greater precision.
This particular model I’ve chosen is specifically designed for travel, so it’s hollow inside and one of the lightest ball heads on the market. In my opinion, this is an ideal present for a traveller who’s really into photography, so don’t rule out this gift option for friends and family.
53. Camera L-Plate, one of the best travel -related gifts for photo enthusiasts
One of the most original and best travel-related gifts is an L-plate, especially if your favorite traveler is a big long exposure landscape photography fan. This piece of gear is a key part of taking panoramic photos because it allows you to shoot with precision. Using an L-plate allows you to secure your camera horizontally and vertically onto your tripod so you can focus on getting the best panorama you can.
54. Camera bag, a gift idea for someone who loves to travel with camera gear
A camera bag is one of those great gifts for travel lovers that works just as well for short getaways as it does for longer photography trips. There are infinite options to choose from in terms of backpacks, but there are still certain essential features you need to keep in mind when you pick out this gift for someone who loves travelling.
First off, whichever bag you pick should be durable so that your gear is protected from bumps and falls. It should also be waterproof, or, at the very least, have a rain cover to keep your gear dry if there’s precipitation.
Another key feature to look for is, of course, enough space for your camera, accessories and other gear. The bag you choose should also fasten around both your waist and chest. That way, the weight of your gear will be distributed more evenly, and you’ll protect your back, which is especially important if you plan to photograph landscapes and hike with your equipment.
55. Camera cleaning kit, what to get a traveler as a stocking stuffer
If you want to put together a box full of useful travel gifts for your favorite photography-loving traveler, be sure to include a camera cleaning kit. This is one of the most thorough I’ve seen on the market, but if your budget’s a little smaller, you can absolutely go for a more basic kit.
A good cleaning kit should include an air blower, a cleaning brush, and plenty of lens cleaning cloths so you can keep your gear in good condition while you’re traveling. Taking good care of your equipment will help you take tack-sharp images and make your gear last longer.
56. Microfiber cleaning cloths, one of the best small travel gifts
A set of microfiber cleaning cloths is another one of the best travel gift ideas on this list. These cloths are useful for cleaning lenses as well as filters, and are made of a soft, delicate material to avoid scratching your lenses while you clean them. If you’re looking for a more affordable travel gift than the kit before this, this set of cloths is a great alternative.
Best of all, these cloths are easy to wash and dry quickly, so you’ll still be able to keep them clean on long journeys when you need them most.
57. Memory cards, a useful gift for travelers with cameras
If you’d prefer to avoid riskier gifts for world travelers and get something that’s a sure win, memory cards are a gift that always goes over well. In fact, I always make sure I have several extras with me when I’m traveling, so I can have more storage and also have backups in case I lose or damage a few.
While regular SD cards work for most cameras, I recommend opting for a compact flash card. These cards have a high read and write speed and are waterproof and temperature-proof, so they’ll really hold up.
58. Memory card case protector, one of the most useful gifts for travellers with cameras
If your favorite photography-loving traveler is about to go on a long trip, they’ll probably bring a bunch of memory cards with them, so a memory card case protector is the perfect gift for a travel lover like this.
This particular case can store up to 12 cards, but you can definitely find cases in other sizes. On top of that, this case is made of shock-absorbent rubber and is designed to keep out water and dust, so your cards will be extra protected. If you don’t have your own camera bag, for example, I’d recommend at least having a case like this, especially since it’s waterproof.
59. Extra batteries, one of the best gifts for someone travelling with a camera
If you’re wondering what to get someone who loves to travel and take photos, you can’t go wrong with extra batteries. When we’re in remote locations or camping, it can be very hard to find electricity. Also, if you’re like us and travel year-round, you’ll know that your batteries can die really quickly in cold temperatures. That’s why it’s always handy to have at least a few extras with you.
We always pack at least 3 batteries per camera, but on certain trips, like our photo tour to the Lofoten Islands, we bring even more. Additionally, if you’re planning on taking any time-lapse or long-exposure photos, you’ll definitely need lots of batteries. As such, this practical travel lover gift is sure to be appreciated.
60. External hard drive, one of the best gifts for travelers with cameras
Anyone who takes a lot of photographs will need an external hard drive to store images and keep them protected. I recommend choosing one that’s an SSD, since it’s faster and more durable than most hard drives.
Whether it’s a gift for a travelling friend or a gift to yourself, this drive comes with a protective case and 2 USB cables so it’s ready to use. Most importantly, your sensitive information will be safe from prying eyes, since you can set up a password for the drive for extra security. You can also choose different storage capacities, but if you want to store photos, I recommend a drive that holds at least 2 TB.
61. Remote shutter, a good travel gift idea for photography enthusiasts
When we take long exposure photos, it’s important to make sure the camera doesn’t move an inch, so a remote shutter is an absolute must. That way, you can use your camera without having to touch it and thus avoid shaking.
Whether your favorite photography-loving traveler is a long-exposure expert or total newbie, this traveller present will be helpful motivation to start or keep working on their photography skills. Of course, a remote shutter also comes in handy when you want to take a selfie and there’s no one else around.
62. ND and CPL filters, another great gift for travelers who love photography
ND and CPL filters are absolute essentials for certain types of landscape photography scenes, especially if you want to take long exposure shots. If you’re thinking of getting one of the best gifts for travelers along these lines, you should know that the filter you choose will depend on the type of photography you do, so have a look at our guide to lens filters if you need a little guidance.
In general, you can choose among: UV protectors, which are transparent and just protect the lens; neutral density filters, which are what we use, since they allow you to take longer exposure images; and polarizing filters, which reduce reflections and boost color saturation.
63. Star Tracker, a fun travel gift for astrophotographers
If your favorite photography-loving traveler is as passionate about astrophotography as we are, a star tracker is absolutely one of the best travel-related gifts you can get them. Whether they have tons of experience or just want to take their photography to the next level, this gift for someone who loves travelling is a dream present for most astrophotographers.
This small device has a tiny motor that offsets the Earth’s rotation so it can follow stars’ movement in the night sky. The tracker is so useful because it lets you use a longer exposure time for your images and capture tack-sharp stars.
I was captivated when I discovered astrophotography with a star tracker, so I can’t recommend this device enough. I own the Benro Polaris, and you can get $100 off with the coupon code 2WGJM4TS8Q. Also, I recommend my Benro Polaris step-by-step course so that you know how to use it from day one.
64. Astro lens, another cool travel gift for astrophotographers
Last but certainly not least, an astro lens is another great gift for those who travel and love photography that’s sure to be a hit. These lenses produce much sharper and higher-quality images than your typical zoom lenses. On top of that, you can get much wider apertures with this lens, around F1.4 to F1.8, without paying a fortune like you would for zoom lenses with a similar aperture.
In my opinion, this lens I have is one of the best lenses for Milky Way photography you can find, so I highly recommend checking it out. Photographing star trails can be really addicting, and a new lens is one of those cool travel gifts that will let you keep playing with your shots.
Travel gifts for hikers
If your favorite traveler loves to camp or hike, there are lots of gifts for a frequent traveler that will work for them. In the next section, you’ll find useful travel gifts for the outdoors that are perfect for any adventurer:
65. Osprey hiking backpack, an essential travel gift for hikers and campers
The first gift for someone who loves travelling and hiking that I’d recommend is a hiking backpack. There are tons of different styles and models on the market, but the most important feature to look for, in my opinion, is an adjustable fit with good fastenings. The weight of your pack should always rest on your hips, not your shoulders, so making sure your pack fits well is key for hiking comfortably and avoiding back and shoulder pain.
I also recommend checking the buckles, since they can cause chafing if they don’t have enough padding. I personally have a 65L backpack, but the size you choose will depend on the length of your route and the amount of weight you have to carry on the trail. I like the 65L size because it means I can carry a weight that’s comfortable for me, and can also take it as a carry-on when I fly.
If you’re sorting through travel themed gift ideas, this is definitely one of the best options, especially if you’re packing a backpack for long-term travel. To make the packing process easier, you’ll definitely need side zippers or easy access pockets. I find it super convenient to have pockets right by the straps, since I like to have things like my phone and sunscreen close at hand. Besides that, a water bottle holder is useful for helping you stay hydrated while you’re hiking. Just don’t forget a waterproof cover, which will keep your belongings clean and dry when it’s dusty or rainy.
66. Trekking poles, a good gift for those who travel and hike a lot
Another one of the best gifts for travelers in 2024 is trekking poles, something every hiker needs and loves. Although we often think we can do without them, they’re so helpful for easing the strain on our lower bodies and preventing injuries to our knees and ankles.
I bought my first pair when I started going hiking in Spain, and now they’re one of my favorite pieces of gear. From my experience, I recommend investing in poles that are light and foldable, so they’re not too heavy to tote around. You should also choose ones that are durable and preferably made of aluminum and carbon so they can support you while you walk without bending and breaking.
Mine have ergonomic handles, which have been such a gamechanger and are super comfortable. Since these handles are cork, they absorb sweat and will give you a good grip on even the most unstable terrain.
67. Hiking boots, one of the best travel lover gifts
Another potential present for travel lovers is hiking boots. If you love walks in nature, you’ll know it’s crucial to have sturdy footwear.
The best shoes will be completely waterproof, so they keep your feet dry even on long hikes. They’ll also dry more quickly if you get them wet. In terms of soles, good boots should have sturdy tread so you can get a solid grip on both rocky surfaces and slippery terrain.
You should also look for high enough boots that will protect your ankles from sprains, which are quite common hiking injuries. When you end up choosing a pair, remember to buy boots that are a half size bigger than your normal shoe size to avoid blisters.
68. Water storage bag, one of the best practical travel-themed gifts
If you want a more original travel essentials gift for hiking, opt for a water storage bag. It’s affordable, practical, and won’t take up much space in your pack, so it’s one of the best gift ideas for travelers.
This bag will allow you to stay hydrated as you enjoy the great outdoors, and you’ll be able to refill it as much as you need, which will help you avoid single-use plastic. Rivers and streams are great places to refill, since you can use water purification tablets to make sure your water is clean and safe to drink. That way, you’ll always have enough water available for when you need it.
69. Water filter, a top travel gift guide idea for frequent hikers and campers
If you’d rather avoid using water purification tablets, you can always go for a water filter, another one of the most useful presents for travellers. If you don’t know how they work, it’s super simple, since all you have to do is fill up your water bottle, place the filter on top, and shake.
This filter’s total capacity is 1,000 liters, so you’ll be able to use it for plenty of trips before you have to replace it. It’s also a great alternative to using chemicals or electricity to make sure you have clean drinking water.
70. Jetboil, one of the best Christmas presents for travelers
A cool gift for travelers that’s in demand is a Jetboil. If you want a hardcore camping experience, this stainless-steel cooking cup will allow you to prepare all kinds of delicious meals in the middle of nature, making it a super coveted camping and hiking travel item.
Simply attach your fuel canister and stove, and then it’s ready to use. You can even heat up to a liter of water inside the cup. It comes with a bottom cover for extra safety and stability, and a sturdy lid so you can heat things up more quickly and conserve gas.
71. Camping silverware, one of the best travel gifts for men who love camping
A practical and affordable birthday gift for a traveler is camping silverware. We often forget how important cutlery is, but having a good set will definitely make your camping meal experiences that much better.
I personally opted for stainless steel cutlery since I knew it would last a long time. Because of this, I haven’t had to worry about my set rusting or breaking, which can happen with plastic or wooden cutlery. Some silverware sets even include other useful tools like can and bottle openers, which are also camping essentials.
72. Light headlamp, a cool idea for a travel gift
A headlamp is another great gift for someone who loves to travel. It comes in handy if you need to cook while camping, organize your gear, or pitch a tent at night, since you’ll need your hands free.
I recommend choosing one with a USB charger that fits snugly but comfortably and has a red light for better visibility.
73. Rechargeable camping light, one of the best gifts for people who travel a lot
A rechargeable camping light is another one of the best gifts for frequent travelers that’s a perfect choice if you’re on a budget. It comes with a hook so you can hang it off your tent roof. You can also use it on fishing trips, hosting barbecues in the backyard, and just to light up any indoor and outdoor spaces.
This particular light has a long battery life, and it also works as a portable charger so you can charge your phone or any other small device you need. I recommend going for an option that illuminates a large area so you can use it in bigger spaces. It should also be water-resistant and durable enough to withstand all the bumps that come with camping and hiking.
74. Ultralight sleeping bag, a great gift for avid travellers who camp
Another one of the best gifts for world travelers that is certain to be appreciated is an ultralight sleeping bag.
This is one of the coziest and most important pieces of camping gear. It’s light and easy to carry, and you can use it either on its own or inside a heavier sleeping bag if it’s really cold. You can even unzip it and use it as a blanket if you need extra warmth. If you’re looking for gift ideas for travel lovers and are having trouble deciding, this is definitely an option to consider.
75. Ultralight sleeping pad, a perfect gift for a travel lover who camps
If you’re looking for the best gift for a friend who travels, an ultralight sleeping pad will help them beef up their camping gear. It’s been a few years since we gave up traditional sleeping pads, and we’ve never looked back after getting an inflatable one.
Inflatable pads are much comfier than regular sleeping pads, they’re easy to roll up, and they take up much less space in my pack. At first, I thought the pad was a little hard to inflate, but it does come with an air valve that prevents leaks and deflates the pad quickly once you’re done using it. It’s also 100% waterproof and has great insulation, even in cooler temperatures.
Best of all, this pad comes with a storage bag and patch kit in case of any leaks, so it’s a frequent traveler gift that has everything you need.
76. Ultralight camping pillow, one of the best travel gifts for a camping trip
An item that you won’t think you need until you have it is an ultralight camping pillow. If you’re choosing a gift for travel lovers and want something a little different, this is an option that’s small, light, and works for just about any kind of adventurer.
This particular pillow has a modern, ergonomic design that offers great neck and lumbar support. It also has non-slip rubber dots to prevent it from sliding around in your sleeping bag. You just need a few breaths to inflate it and then you’ve got yourself a super comfy pillow.
77. Winter sleeping bag, one of the top travel birthday gifts for men and women
Continuing on the theme of gifts for people who love to travel and hike, you can’t go wrong with a winter sleeping bag. Personally, I prefer warmer sleeping bags, so I tend to look at models that are light and compressible.
If you’re planning a trip to a cold destination, the standard mummy shape is the warmest, as the shape of the neck prevents warm air from escaping the bag.
78. Ultralight backpacking tent, one of the best gifts for travel couples
An ultralight backpacking tent is one of those gifts for travelers in 2024 that you can keep in mind if you have a higher budget and want to really surprise your favorite hiker or camping aficionado with a big gift.
This type of tent is designed to conserve warmth inside, since it’s made with high quality materials and is a compact design, making it perfect for destinations with lower temperatures. This particular tent is meant for two people, but you can always pick the size that works best for you.
Best of all, transporting this tent is a breeze, since it only weighs 3.8 pounds! I know that this is definitely one of the best travel presents for backpackers that will motivate you to go camping that much more.
79. Backpacker poncho, an inspired gift for world travelers
Another of the most original travelling presents you can give is a poncho, which will help you get through the rainy days, so you don’t have to put your adventure on pause. This particular model has enough room to cover a large backpack, so it’s ideal for hikers.
Another detail that makes this gift for someone who loves to travel stand out are the heat-sealed zippers and seams, which prevent water from seeping through and getting you wet.
80. First aid kit, one of the best practical gifts for someone who likes to travel
It’s great to look for the most exciting and fun travel gifts, but practical and efficient presents can be equally appreciated, too. This first aid kit is a must-have for every hiker, camper, and backpacker in case of emergency, so it’s one of those travel essentials gifts you shouldn’t do without.
This kit comes with everything you need to handle emergencies and injuries, and contains 120 pieces, including bandages, alcohol prep pads, an emergency blanket, gauze, an ice pack, gloves, a glow stick, and more.
81. Garmin InReach, another one of the best gifts for couples who like to travel
For more experienced travelers, the Garmin InReach is a fantastic and useful travel gift. This satellite communication device is light, compact, and includes a GPS. That way, you can be easily located if something unexpected happens or trace your route if you get lost.
This is a perfect gift for travel lovers who are headed to remote destinations and will be off the grid. A device like this will allow you to have peace of mind, even in the middle of nowhere, since you’ll still be connected enough to view maps, check the weather, and more. You can even send a message to a 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center if something goes really wrong and you need help.
The device’s battery lasts up to 14 days, so it’s really useful for longer trips. It also has a digital compass so you can tell which direction you’re going in.
Travel gifts for snorkelers
If you prefer the ocean to the mountains, there are other great gifts for travel lovers that will work for you. These gifts will make water sports and activities even more enjoyable, so they’re really worth having on beach vacations.
82. Snorkeling mask, a good present for travel lovers who snorkel
A good travel gift idea for water lovers is a snorkeling mask. Fortunately, you won’t have to worry about sizing, since it has a completely adjustable strap. On top of that, the mask’s ergonomic design allows for a perfect fit on different face types, so it’s a great gift for travelers of all ages and sizes.
In my case, I chose a snorkel with a sophisticated valve system that prevents water from entering the breathing tube every time I dive. This mask is also made of high-quality silicone, which is easy to clean and won’t break.
If you can afford to invest a little more, I would highly recommend a snorkeling mask like this one because the mask’s glass lens is tempered and anti-fog. The cheapest snorkel masks don’t tend to have this feature, so they can be hard to see through and scratch easily.
83. Snorkeling fins, the best gift for the traveler who snorkels
Now that you have a snorkeling mask, these snorkel fins are another gift for someone about to travel that you can go for. These fins will help you move through the water more quickly so you can see lots of beautiful marine species when you dive.
I recommend paying close attention to the quality of the straps and buckles, since poor-quality straps can slip off easily or hurt your feet. In terms of buckles, make sure they’re sturdy. Additionally, the fins should come with shape holders, so they don’t get damaged when you pack them.
84. Anti-fog spray, a unique idea for a travel gift
Another great gift for travelers and beach lovers that stands out from the rest is anti-fog spray.
Although it’s best to get a snorkel mask that has anti-fog glass, having an anti-fog spray on hand is always useful, especially if you’re diving quite deep when you’re snorkeling or scuba diving.
85. Underwater smartphone case, a travel Christmas gift everyone will love
An underwater smartphone case is one of those gifts for traveling friends that’s perfect for anyone who does lots of water activities and still wants to take photos. If a GoPro is a bit out of your budget, this is a great traveller present alternative that will allow you to just use your phone without having to worry about it getting waterlogged. If you enjoy seascape photography, a durable waterproof case will help prevent against scratches and damage from the sand.
Like other ideas in this travel gift guide, this case works perfectly as a stocking stuffer or as part of a travel photography kit, especially if your favorite traveler wants to improve their photo-taking skills. This particular case, which I have, features large buttons that allow me to easily use it underwater. It also has audible and visual alarms that will notify you if moisture gets into the case, so your phone will be extra protected.
This case even has an underwater color correction filter so your photos’ lighting will come out looking as close to realistic as possible. This feature is especially important because the deeper you go, the more the water will make colors seem faded; red, orange, and yellow are the first colors to become muted.
86. Water shoes, a great travel gift for those who love water sports
Water shoes are one of the best things to have at the beach and one of the most practical international travel gift ideas. I love spending time at the beach as much as the next person, but I tend to prefer sandy beaches, like the beautiful ones in the Canary Islands, over rocky beaches.
Still, as you know, many beaches are full of stones, which can make it a bit difficult to take a peaceful walk and relax. Fortunately, these shoes will help you enjoy walks along even the rockiest beaches. Best of all, you don’t even have to take them off to go in the water, so you can comfortably go in and out as much as you please.
87. Swim buoy and dry bag, a gift idea for travel lovers who swim
A swim buoy is another unique gift for travel lovers that I can’t forget to include. Its neon orange color makes it super visible in the water so you can be seen by lifeguards, boaters, surfers, jet ski riders, and anyone else enjoying a swim with you. The color also deters marine life to keep you safe.
Since the buoy keeps you afloat, it’ll help you conserve your energy and let you rest when you need to. All you need to do is inflate the buoy and put on the attached belt with adjustable buckle before jumping into the ocean and going for a swim without any worries.
Travel gifts to inspire your next trip
If your vacation is still a ways off, here are some ideas for travel gifts that will make the wait a little more bearable:
88. Scratch map, the perfect gift for travel friends
If, like me, you’re a traveler who just can’t get enough of exploring, a scratch map will help you keep track of the many places you’ve been. This travel lover gift is one of my favorites, so don’t be afraid to have a look at different types and sizes of maps to find the one that’s best for you.
Simply scratch the surface to reveal the color hidden beneath it, and you’ll have a cool piece to hang on the wall. You can also store the map inside the protective tube that comes with it.
89. Wooden world map wall art, a classic travel gift
A decorative wooden world map is another cool travel gift that’s sure to go over well, since it makes for great décor but is also a helpful way to keep track of all your trips and plan future adventures.
The wood used for the map is high-quality and durable, and the map locations have been carefully hand-painted. Best of all, this simple, elegant map works for many different kinds of environments and home décor styles, so it’s a gift idea for travel lovers that’ll work for lots of different people.
On top of that, the map comes in gift packaging, so you won’t even have to wrap it. Just pick out the size and color you want, and your perfect travelers gift is ready to go!
90. Travel jigsaw puzzle, a great international travel gift idea
Puzzles never go out of style, so a travel jigsaw puzzle is another gift for travel enthusiasts you shouldn’t overlook. A puzzle isn’t just a great way to exercise your creativity and your brain; it also makes for the perfect travel decoration when you’ve finished it!
I recommend choosing a puzzle with a reasonable number of pieces, especially if your favorite traveler isn’t generally a big puzzler, so it doesn’t get forgotten in a drawer because it’s too tricky. However, you don’t want to give a puzzle that’s too easy, so try to find a balance between simple and challenging.
You’ll also want to make sure the pieces are good quality, since otherwise, they might bend easily or not fit together well.
91. Vintage world globe, a top gift for avid travelers
One of the best gifts for couples that travel is a vintage-style globe. While it’s a gift that works for pretty much any traveler, it looks especially nice on a desk, mantel, bookshelf, or other special place where you can show it off.
You can choose between a wooden base and a metal one, and between maps with more modern designs or more antique ones. Whichever option you go for will be great, since this is one of the best gifts for travelers.
92. Lonely Planet’s The World, a fantastic gift for a world traveler heading abroad
One of the gift ideas for travellers that works for just about anyone is Lonely Planet’s The World. After all, why pick a single destination when you could travel the world from the comfort of home?
This great travellers present contains all the essential facts you need to know about all 221 world countries, along with incredible images that will help inspire and motivate you to visit other corners of the globe. If you want to have the world in the palm of your hands, this is the perfect travel lover’s gift.
93. Ticket to Ride board game, a top gift for train travel enthusiasts
One of the most fun travel gifts on this list is definitely Ticket to Ride. Of course, you can give any board game you think your favorite traveler would enjoy, but if you want to stick with the travel theme, this is definitely the best game to choose.
You can play with anywhere from 2 to 5 people, and it’s suitable for children ages 8 and up so no one’s left out of the fun. To give you an idea, in this game, players collect different train and ship ticket cards that allow them to cover different routes around the world. You’ll also enjoy beautiful illustrations of the world map on the game’s board.
Other original travel gifts
At this point, I’m sure you have plenty of travel lover’s gift ideas. However, if you haven’t quite figured out what you want to get yet, here are a few extra gift ideas for a world traveler:
94. Travel journal, the best gift for travelers who like to write
A travel journal is one of the top gifts for someone who loves to travel since you can capture all of the amazing experiences you have on your journey. I love to jot down inspirational quotes about travel and other thoughts that cross my mind while I’m on the road. I also add museum and attraction tickets from places I really enjoyed visiting.
Once I get back home, I spend hours flipping through the pages and reliving all kinds of adventures. My journal has a vintage-style design and is pocket-sized so I can always carry it with me without adding much extra weight to my luggage. Of course, you can choose the cover and design you like most, as well as whether you want lined or unlined pages, and personalize it your way. If you want another great travel essentials gift to give, don’t overlook this option.
95. Cards Against Humanity Tiny Version, a small, unique gift for travelers
Cards Against Humanity Tiny Version is a pocket-sized version of a very popular card game where players compete to give the most hilarious and witty response to innocent questions. Whoever gives the best answer wins the round and the question card, and the object of the game is to collect the most question cards. Each round, a different player decides who has the “best answer,” and, of course, everyone will define “best answer” a little differently.
In my opinion, this is a great game for socializing, since the rules are simple, and you’re guaranteed to get a laugh out of it. The best thing about this tiny version is that you can take it anywhere and play it with the new friends you make while traveling. I always include this game in every travel essentials gift care package, especially if I know they’ll be going camping or traveling with friends.
96. Travel hammock, a cool birthday gift for travel lovers
All of us like to take naps, especially when we’re traveling, so a travel hammock is perfect for relaxing and getting a little shut eye under a tree. This gift for travel enthusiasts will also allow you to chill by the fire when you’re camping or sleep under the stars and stay warm and cozy through the night. You can even hang it off a palm tree to enjoy views of the ocean.
Best of all, thanks to its compact size, you can bring this hammock anywhere you want without too much trouble. This hammock is also light, practical, and easy to use; you just need to tie its straps to two trees and then adjust it to the perfect height. If you are going to opt for this birthday gift for travel lovers, I recommend getting a hammock that’s made out of nylon, which is soft but strong, and has reinforced seams.
97. Inflatable kayak, one of the best gifts for traveling couples
If you need a quick gift for a traveling couple, an inflatable kayak is an original and exciting option. This kayak has two seats, so it’s perfect for couples or spending time with friends and family. It also has high-quality aluminum oars that will make rowing a breeze.
Try to go for a kayak that comes with an inflation pump because otherwise, you’ll need to buy it separately. This particular kayak also comes with a repair patch in case of any rips or tears so that no unexpected event ruins your peaceful moment in nature.
98. Get Your Guide gift card, a thoughtful gift for someone traveling abroad
If all the gifts for people who love to travel on this list seem too personal or risky for you, you can always give a Get Your Guide gift card. That way, you can add whatever amount of money you’d like to the card, and your favorite traveler can put it towards an exciting new activity or adventure at their next destination.
This gift card is also a great travel Christmas gift for anyone who doesn’t have much time to go shopping, since you can easily buy it online and have it sent to your favorite traveler’s email right away.
99. Hotels.com gift card, one of the best gift cards for travel lovers
A Hotels.com gift card is another one of the best ideas for travel gifts that any traveler would love to receive.
These days, there are plenty of websites and hacks to find hotel deals, but you can save even more money with this gift card, which can be applied to hotels and accommodations around the world, on top of the deals Hotels.com already offers. Your favorite traveler will thank you when they’re able to stay at that fancy resort they’ve been eying or that one-of-a-kind historical inn.
All you need to do is choose the amount you’d like to load on the card and add a little message. Then your gift card will be sent right to your favorite traveler’s email so they can easily use it when they’re booking their next hotel.
100. Airline gift card, a perfect present for travel lovers
While it’s not too difficult to learn how to find cheap flights, one of the best gift cards for travel lovers is an airline gift card. Whether it’s American Airlines, Ryanair, Southwest, Delta, or another one of your favorite airlines, this travel gift will allow you to save a few dollars when you buy your next plane ticket.
All you have to do is enter your gift card code when you pay for your flight, and the gift card will automatically be applied to and subtracted from the final total. Since buying a flight will be that much simpler, all you’ll have to worry about is packing your luggage and getting a good seat.
That’s it for our travel gift guide, but if you have any questions, please feel free to leave me a comment below. Also, be sure to let me know if you end up trying out any of these travel presents for yourself!
See you soon and happy shopping!
