The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re scrambling to find the best gifts for travelers, you’re in luck. Whether you’re searching for that ideal Christmas gift for a jet-setter or simply want to make sure your favorite adventurer is well-equipped for their next journey, we’ve got you covered.
Being a conscious consumer is important to me and recommending gifts that will end up in landfills and not get used is not my vibe. So rest assured, this list is full of products I have personally used over my years of traveling and am pretty sure the travel you love will love them too.
From clever gadgets to stylish accessories, our curated gift guide features the ultimate gifts that will make every traveler’s experience smoother and more enjoyable. Dive into my top picks and find the best gifts for travelers that will truly light up their holiday season.
Looking just for a couple of items to fill their stocking? Head to my guide on stocking stuffer ideas for travelers!
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Kavu Slide Sling Pack
The Kavu Slide Sling Pack isn’t just a sling pack; it’s the Swiss Army knife of bags. My sister got this as a gift before her study abroad and I got it before our Africa safari and I love it for travel and everyday use on walks or hikes. It It is perfect for those who hate digging through backpacks. It slides across your body like a charm, giving easy access to your essentials. Plus, it’s got enough room for snacks, maps, and that new souvenir you’ve just gotta have.
Buy it on Amazon for $59.95.
Kaka Travel Backpack
Meet the Kaka Travel Backpack, the rugged sidekick every traveler needs. I’ve had this backpack since 2017 and it has held up super well throughout the years and still looks brand new despite heavy use. I swear it can pack more than my suitcase.
It’s like a Transformer—ready to turn into a duffel bag or a daypack with ease. With pockets galore and a sturdy build and a hip strap (!!!), it’s ideal for those who want to look cool while navigating through airports and cities. I have a long torso so this has always fit me great, but it would be well suited for any male traveler in your life vs. a petite female.
Get it on Amazon for $63.99.
Fashionable Travel Backpack
This travel backpack is more fashion forward than the one but because who says you can’t be stylish while being practical? This travel backpack combines sleek design with all the functionality needed for a day on the go. It’s not as long as the Kaka and is ideal for anyone who is of smaller stature. It’s small enough that it will fit under your seat on the plane. So if you know someone who loves their budget airlines and not paying crazy baggage fees, this is an excellent -and stylish- choice for them.
Get it on Amazon for $43.98.
Compression Cubes
Think of compression cubes as magic wands for your luggage. These space-saving marvels squish your clothes down to almost nothing. Like Space Bags without the vacuum. They’re like giving your suitcase a personal trainer—more room for souvenirs and less time wrestling with your zipper. Splurging on higher quality ones will ensure you’re getting ones that actually compress down and help save space. I use mine not just to travel on flights, but also camping and just going an hour away for the weekend.
Get it on Amazon for $45.99.
Carry On Suitcase
Carry-on luggage has come a long way in the past decade and giving the gift of an upgrade could be seriously needed for your traveler. This one is only $79 but is very highly reviewed. You might think a carry-on that’s cheap is just, well, cheap. But this one is an exception. It’s durable, functional, and won’t break the bank. It also includes a locking mechanism, which I love. It’s an extra layer of security if you’re ever leaving your bags at an accommodation before or after check-in/out.
Get it on Amazon for $79.99.
Noise Canceling Headphones
Ever wished you could mute the crying baby behind you? Or your travel companion? These noise-canceling headphones make that dream a reality. They’re perfect for long flights or noisy train rides. With crystal-clear sound and silence at the touch of a button, your traveler will thank you for the serenity. These are a little bit on the spendy side, but they are a gift that will likely get a ton of use and hold up over the years, which is something that’s important to me when I’m buying a gift for someone.
Get it on Amazon for $249.95.
Beats Buds
Beats Buds are the ultimate in wireless convenience. They’re compact, powerful, and perfect for a soundtrack to any journey. Whether it’s a long flight or a lazy afternoon in a new city, these earbuds will keep the tunes rolling. My husband loves his big headphones and brings them on every trip, but I’m all about maximizing space and I love these because of how small they are, while still having active noise canceling so I can tune him out. Oops. I mean tune the crying baby out.
Get it on Amazon for $99.99.
The Kindle Paperwhite is a game-changer for any bookworm on the move. It’s like carrying a whole library in your pocket. Look, I was a non-believer in the Kindle until my 2022 trip to Panama, where I was just bringing my travel backpack and a book series I wanted to read. I went out and bought myself one in the middle of July and seriously wished it would have been on my Christmas list YEARS ago.
With its glare-free screen and adjustable light, it’s perfect for reading on long flights or lazy beach days. No more juggling heavy books or worrying about packing them—just pure, portable literary bliss.
Get it on Amazon for $149.99.
Leather Crossbody Bag
This leather crossbody bag is the epitome of travel chic and is a super affordable gift for honestly anyone in your life, but especially someone who likes exploring. It’s small enough to be unobtrusive but big enough to carry the essentials. Plus, it adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit, whether wandering through markets or hitting up a fancy dinner.
Get it on Amazon for $25.99.
For the traveler who values both function and fashion, the Lululemon Crossbody Bag is a dream come true. My mother in law gave this to me last Christmas and it’s been a game changer at the airport, on day trips, and on walks with my dog. It’s sleek, lightweight, and versatile. It’s seriously perfect not only for quick trips around town but also as an extra layer of organization in a bigger bag. Plus, it’s got that Lululemon touch of style and durability.
Get it on Amazon for $83.31.
Apple Airtags
Say goodbye to lost luggage or wandering keys. The Airtag is a tiny device with a big impact. It’ll help your traveler find their stuff faster than you can say, “Where did I put that?” Seasoned travelers swear by putting these in their checked bags in case the airline makes a mistake. But they’re perfect for everyday use as well and you’ll want more than one; my sometimes forgetful husband has one on his keys and in his wallet. Heck, you can even put on the dog if they like to roam.
Get it on Amazon for $79.20.
Portable Charger
Running out of battery in the middle of a hike? Or in the middle of trying to navigate Rome on foot? Not with this portable charger. It’s the traveler’s best friend, ensuring that their phone is always charged and ready to capture every moment—whether they’re exploring a new city or lost in the wilderness.
Get it on Amazon for $17.99.
Waterproof Boots (Bogs)
If you’re someone who likes to gift clothes to your loved ones, waterproof boots never go out of style. And these aren’t just waterproof boots; they’re like cozy, warm, waterproof hugs for your feet. The Bogs boots are perfect for adventurers who encounter rain, snow, or mud. They keep feet dry and stylish, no matter what the weather throws their way and they really hold up over the years. Mine have trekked Iceland, Scotland, and the wilderness of Minnesota and held up great.
Get it on Amazon for $76.25.
Chaco Sandals
If you’re shopping for someone who doesn’t choose to ever be in conditions where waterproof boots would be necessary (they prefer beaches and warm weather travel), Chaco sandals are the perfect blend of comfort and ruggedness. They’re designed to handle everything from city streets to rocky trails. With adjustable straps and a supportive sole, these sandals are made for those who don’t want to sacrifice style for practicality. I have had mine for almost 10 years now and they’ve been with me on 4 continents, so they really last.
Get on Amazon for $56.36.
Waterproof Coat
Continuing the trend of clothing, a good rain coat is an excellent gift for anyone who isn’t that beach traveler. Rain is no match for this coat. The Eddie Bauer Girl’s on the Go Trench Coat is waterproof and lightweight yet tough, keeping your traveler dry without adding a ton of bulk. It’s ideal for those unexpected downpours or just breezy city strolls.
Get it on Amazon for $104.30.
Waterproof Wool Beanie
A good quality waterproof beanie can last you a lifetime. Warm and dry is the name of the game with this beanie. The waterproof wool keeps the rain off and the warmth in. It’s perfect for chilly mornings or unexpected weather while your traveler is out exploring, either in the Highlands of Scotland or in woods hike 10 miles from their home.
Get it on Amazon for $36.99.
Hiking Gloves
These gloves are like a second skin for the adventurer and pair perfectly the waterproof beanie. They offer warmth and grip, making them perfect for scrambling up trails or just keeping fingers cozy during a brisk walk. They’re a thoughtful gift for those who take their hiking seriously or like to travel in the colder months.
Get it on Amazon for $19.99.
There you have it—our handpicked selection of gifts for those that travel. Whether it’s a sleek Kindle Paperwhite or a trusty pair of Chaco sandals, each item on this list is designed to make adventures a little easier and a lot more fun. These aren’t just good Christmas gifts for travelers; they’re game-changers. So, wrap up one of these goodies and watch your favorite wanderer unwrap a smile. Happy gifting and happy travels!
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