23 Best Travel Gifts of 2023 [Gift & Present Ideas]

Are you looking for some travel gifts and ideas to buy for your friends and family? We’ve got you covered with the best travel gift ideas you can want.

Every year, I struggle with what I should buy my loved ones for any holiday. When it comes to my aunts, uncles, young cousins, and even friends who are traveling to my area, it’s especially tricky.

I don’t see them often, yet I know there HAS to be something that will fit their personality and yet is something nearly anyone can use or would enjoy.

There are a ton of travel gift options that are ideal for on-the-go people. I like to pick out items that would make their travels more accessible, more comfortable, and more entertaining. My go-to’s have been things with a quirky appeal unique to my friends and family members’ tastes.

TL;DR: Summary of Best Gift Ideas for Travelers

For the backpacker: Deuter Rise Lite Backpack

The Deuter Rise Lite Backpack can accommodate various body types. Its adjustable weights are kept near the body for effective lifting. The bag carried 70 pounds of items and was protected from wind and rain.

Get the Deuter backpack for $150 at the end of the year for a good deal on Amazon.com. The bag is a lighter option with adjustable back panels for different body types, which can also be easily adjusted depending on the size of the body type.

For the ambitious hiker: Black Diamond Trekking Poles

A solid pair of trekking poles will help hikers maintain balance during difficult and rugged travel. These collapsable ones can be easily packed in a backpack and are lighter. Buy these Black Diamond collapsible travel poles for a great price relative to their usefulness.

If you hike a lot, trekking poles can help you go deeper, making for a better experience at those state and national parks. The stakes are light, easy to pack in a backpack, and sturdy and durable.

For the one with a messy bag: Shacke Packing Cubes

Shacke packing cubes make the bag easier to organize during traveling. The nylon pouch keeps the contents organized and fresh. It’s a significant game changer. You can shoot through your overnighter without fearing rips or losing your desired outfit.

For those who can’t pack light: Away Large Suitcase

Away Large has a rigid yet flexible polycarbonate shell that protects its contents against crushing. It includes several fashionable colors and is resistant to scuffs and dirt. Inside are 100 pounds of storage space, mesh pockets, and a clip-in compression plate for holding two weeks’ worth of robes (and a ton) of souvenirs.

The stylish traveler who stays cozy: Pendleton Wool Blanket

Pendleton Twin Wool Blanket with Carrier has an Amazon price of $189. Elegant handmade covers are comfortable and warm. Some are unique in shape and color and can appeal to a particular individual. Get a Pendleton twin wool blanket with a carrier for $189 at Amazon.com.

For the family who travels: YETI Cooler

The Tundra flagship model of YETI is famous for its incredible ability to keep food and beverages cold for days. Get YETi Tundra 45 hard cooler for $299.99 from Amazon. A solid and indestructible cooler has high insulation that keeps items chilled long.

The following are types of gifts I know someone in your life is sure to love.

Best Flying & Lodging Travel Gifts

Subscription-based travel gifts can be great as they are the gifts that keep on giving. You must pay an annual subscription upfront to provide a travel subscription as a gift. You wouldn’t want the receiver of a blessing to pay for something… That defeats the whole purpose of a travel gift.

Going.com (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights)

A Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) premium subscription makes an excellent gift for the avid traveler. Scott’s Cheap Flights is an email-based subscription service that automatically sends insane flight deals directly to your inbox.

Going.com is an excellent gift idea, as travelers will instantly receive great flight deals that will help them explore the world. Once they book that insanely cheap flight, they will now think about you. Wait until they go on the trip… They’ll be so grateful to have received a fantastic experience for an affordable price. Want to learn more about this service? Please read our review of Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

See Related: Best Ways to Earn Delta SkyMiles

Airline, Hotel, or Airbnb Gift Cards

People have mixed feelings about gift cards, particularly about giving and receiving them. I’m not here to help you judge if that’s the right gift for someone. I’m here to help you identify ideas ideal for travel. Gift cards are an excellent option for avid travelers, in my opinion.

I’d be elated if someone were to give me a travel gift card, no matter if that’s for hotel, lodging, or airfare. The one thing stopping me from traveling ALL the time is simply the cost of flying or the cost of housing, so anytime I can get help in that department, I’ll take it.

It’s one of the reasons why I’m so passionate about travel hacking. I love traveling for as little a cost to me as possible. The good news is that there is no shortage of options for purchasing gift cards for travel. You can buy them for things like:

• Airbnb,
• GetYourGuide (for tours that travelers can take on their trip),
• Viator,
• Booking.com,
• Priority Pass,
• Marriott,
• The list goes on and on.

If you know a friend or family member is traveling to a particular destination, you can get them a tour with GetYourGuide or book an Airbnb. Grab these most gift cards on Amazon for a great price, and you’ll be in good hands.

Best Travel Gifts for Comfort and Organization

We all know how important it is to feel comfy and “in your zone” when in unfamiliar places or on a fast-paced holiday trip. You can’t go wrong with a practical gift that makes travel more convenient and comfortable. These are just a few that I especially like to buy.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are great for; you guessed it – packing! They keep items sorted and neat in your luggage. Who wouldn’t want to have a tidy travel bag? It saves time and effort when you want to break out your reading glasses, book, medicine, slipper socks, etc., after that long trip once you get to the family’s house or the hotel.

eBags Light 5-piece Packing Cube is at the top of my list. I find that they’re so lightweight and durable. They have self-repairing coil zippers with corded pulls so that they last for a long time. The nylon and silicone inside of them make them easy to fill.

I do have to admit that they don’t stand up like they’re supposed to by themselves, and they’re a little expensive for the quality, but if you find a deal, they are worth it. Check out these top-wheeled garment bags for luggage ideas.

See Related: Best Travel Board Games: Travel-Sized Options

Travel Slippers

Soft, comfy slippers will make anyone feel amazing! I like to put this in a care package when I know my friends will often be on the road, whether for work, the holidays, or leisure.

I’ve gotten a few ladies the Snoozies Skinnies Women’s Lightweight Travel Flat slippers. They raved about these flats, and I decided I needed a pair.

These slippers are great to wear after a long day on a plane, train, or in the car. They’re easy to carry, no matter how you’re traveling.

You can put them in the washing machine, and they won’t shrink! They’re true to size (not wearing socks). Snoozies women’s travel slippers come in a variety of designs. The only thing I’d say to watch out for is that you’re okay with flats that are so lightweight they’re almost like socks.

See Related: Best Travel Security Products

Travel Blanket/Pillow

A travel blanket (that you can also use as a pillow with its pillowcase bag) is simply delightful! This is an excellent gift if you know someone on your shopping list who would prefer to use their bedding when traveling. It even can be used on long trains, planes, or car rides.

The EverSnug Travel Blanket/Pillow with Pillowcase is among my favorites in this category. This soft bag pillowcase makes it easy to take out and use wherever you are.

The backpack clip and luggage belt handle make it easier to carry even if you have many other things. At 65 inches by 40 inches, you can share the blanket with your traveling companion.

It’s lightweight yet super comfy – I love taking this camping with me and breaking it out early in the evening. You’ll want to be careful when washing it as I’ve gotten some complaints it doesn’t go so well on the standard washing machine settings. Check out these beach blankets if you know a beach lover.

See Related: Monos Luggage Review: Is it Worth it?

Casserole Carrier Bag

Want to be able to make up a casserole and take it on that long drive to your loved one’s house on Christmas Eve? I love bringing insulated food carriers for dinner with friends or family. They keep your food warm and as fresh as possible.

This double casserole carrier bag expands and is thermal-lined, so your food stays warm for hours. It has dual compartments that hold standard-sized dishes of 9×13” to 11×15”. The rooms are water-tight and leakproof in case there’s any spillage.

The zipper is easy to find and use and super durable, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking. You’ve got to love how it comes along with matching potholders. This carrier is both functional and stylish.

My only issue is that I can’t take it on long road trips (unless I plan to eat the food or bring it to someone’s house a few hours into the trip).

See Related: Best Travel Posters

Bathrobes

Who doesn’t like wrapping up in a warm, cozy robe after a shower or a long day on the road (or on a plane/train)? It’s such a great feeling, especially when you find one that’s just the right fit for your body and feels so soft and luxurious.

Last year, I purchased the Nautica Long-Sleeve Plush Collar robe for my father and two uncles. They all said they felt warm and comfy after putting on their bathrobes.

My one uncle took this on a few plane rides and a road trip to use it during and after. He was amazed at how versatile the robe was and that it had a lovely shawl collar to keep him warmer than any other robe he’s had.

The pockets in the front make it convenient since he likes to keep his iPod and wallet closed while traveling. If you want polyester and don’t mind waiting longer for it to dry, this is a perfect robe for your holiday travels.

See Related: Away vs. Beis: What is the Better Suitcase?

Best Electronic Gifts for Travel

From portable chargers you can use in your car to the ultimate gadgets like iPads, so much in the electronics category is appealing. Given their nature, these items are so easy to bring when traveling.

Most are pretty lightweight, and you can get cases or holders that protect them (as well as put many of these rights in your travel tote or travel purse.

Best of all, you’ll have a means of getting your favorite form of entertainment anywhere you go with your electronics. Think about getting one or more for someone special!

Handheld Gaming Device

You’ll see your child’s/grandchild’s eyes light up when you get them a handheld gaming device! You might even get one to play alongside them on the plane or train. These typically come with many games already loaded, so you don’t have to fuss with cartridges or downloading anything.

Just pure ol’ fun playing classic and more modern games in a small device you can fit into a coat pocket or in your travel bag with ease. One of the more popular devices today is the Nintendo Switch. The graphics on this are AMAZING; It has features like a gyroscope, accelerometer, and advanced HD Rumble with the Joy-Con controllers that give them a subtle vibration while you’re playing games that are compatible with the feature.

Play in one of 3 modes – TV, Tabletop, or Handheld. It comes with a 128GB MicroSD card, and the battery lasts for about 4.5 to more than 9 hours.

You can download and purchase games to load. Everything is pretty easy to use; the only complaint I’ve heard from some friends and family is that the right side of the controller is a bit crowded, and they wish there were a convenient way to keep all of those travel accessories together provided with it.

See Related: RVShare Review

Wifi Signal Booster

It’s always a good idea to make sure you’re covered when on trips, and you want to be able to use multiple devices for the Internet or network connection. A wifi signal booster does just that! Most of them provide a signal at a pretty good distance from the signal booster box.

The NETGEAR wifi Range Extender EX3700 is a top-notch wireless signal booster. It provides up to 1000 square feet of coverage and can connect up to 15 devices, including smartphones, tablets, speakers, laptops, and many others.

It has excellent speed at 750Mbps with dual-band and patented FastLane technology. Use it with any cable modem, wireless router, or gateway if it has wifi capability. I like that I can plug in my wired devices, game consoles, and more and still get the same speed no matter where I go that has an outlet.

The thing that I had a tough time with was that when there was an issue, it was difficult to get ahold of customer support. It also doesn’t always work with gateways or routers that have altered firmware.

Check out these other top travel routers to bring on your trips.

See Related: Best Credit Cards for Travel Perks

Garmin Instinct Tactical GPS Watch

All my friends who are outdoor enthusiasts love the latest gadgets when they are out having fun. I enjoy giving a watch with extra tech features that are ideal for navigation and make it easier to explore at night.

I love this rugged and reliable GPS watch and think it’s one of the best travel gifts. It has many valuable features, including night vision and stealth modes to turn the GPS off.

I like the TrackBack feature that follows the same route back that I came. Because it is made to military standards, it is heavy-duty and can take some blows! I have knocked it around a bit out in the field, and it is unphased. This watch has to be one of my favorite GPS devices I have ever owned. The only thing I have to complain about is that the HD screen protector film doesn’t work all that well.

See Related: How to Find Hacker Fare Flights

Electronic Organizer Case

With so many devices available and in use, all the cords and accessories get overwhelming. I have had to untangle many USB cables and other power cords. This case is a lifesaver for me, and it also makes a good gift for people in your life with lots of electronics.

The Electronic Organizer, BUBM Travel Cable Bag/USB Drive Shuttle Case, is a fantastic way for someone like me to stay on top of all my electronic cables and power cords. Especially when I travel, this case is so friendly and handy, saving me from stressing out sometimes.

The durable waterproof nylon shell repels moisture and dirt to keep my cables in good shape. I also like the excellent color options.

One drawback is that the case can be overwhelming with all the configuration options. This is an excellent little case to add to a stocking stuffer gift list.

See Related: Best Travel Backpacks

Best Media Gifts for Travel

Whether you have people on your shopping list who like to read, listen to books/music, or do something else entirely, media is an excellent idea as gifts for frequent travelers.

For the Avid Reader: Audiobooks

One of my favorite ways to pass the time when I don’t feel like looking at a screen or the pages of a physical book is to listen to an audiobook. I know several people who enjoy doing that, so I buy these for at least a few people on my Christmas list each year.

One of the books that I’ve gotten for a few people is Where the Crawdads Sing. Young and older friends alike have enjoyed this one. It’s so descriptive, exciting, and suspenseful.

The scenes are written in a picturesque way that comes across well in the audio version. It’s an insightful yet unnerving story that will make you want to keep listening.

The audio is just over 12 hours long, which is ideal for a long road trip one way or to listen to on a plane or train ride, then finish up while you unwind after a day of the hustle and bustle.

See Related: Free Printable Travel Planner

Also, for the Avid Reader: Books

Of course, you can’t beat the classic presents for travelers – books! Pick up a book you love, or something you know your friend or a family member has been looking for a while.

Books will make a perfect gift if you know someone about to go on a trip and will have downtime during travel or at night. Nala’s World: One Man, His Rescue Cat, and a Bike Ride Around the Globe is an illustrated book that only recently came out. I picked up a copy for myself when I saw it was available after seeing it in a book guide online.

This frolicking adventure of non-fiction documents Dean Nicholas and his cat on their travels through Greece, Georgia, Turkey, and other countries that were first posted on Instagram. It also explains how they met and what kind of antics they encountered while traveling.

It was unfortunate at parts, so anyone sensitive to talk of drugs and alcohol that the author describes as a part of his earlier lifestyle. Like what you are hearing? Check out these best books for traveling to Italy.

Best Food & Beverage Travel Gifts

Insulated Travel Mug

There are so many travel mugs to choose from out there, and if I am going to give one as a gift, I want it to be high quality. That is why I like this one a lot.

This mug stays sealed, which is good for me because I am clumsy and have broken many a coffee mug over the years. It feels pretty durable and can take a few tumbles without much damage. It holds the perfect amount of coffee and tea I like.

Plus, I primarily drink hot drinks, and it goes the distance keeping them warm for hours. I am not sure how long the button for one-hand drinking will last, but the color options and other features, including affordability, make this travel mug one of my favorites.

Hot Chocolate Gift Basket

Chocolate is one of my favorites of all time, whether it is candy bars or other treats. And, of course, who doesn’t love hot chocolate? It also makes an excellent gift for someone during the chilly winter months.

This Thoughtfully Gifts Godiva Hot Chocolate and Coffee Set satisfies my chocolate and coffee craving. With a white and elegantly gold-styled mug, it is nice to share with others. Since I drink tons of coffee, it was a fantastic addition to this set that differentiates it from just cocoa gift sets.

The truffle coffee was yummy, and the dark and milk chocolate cocoa mixes were delicious with both milk and dark combination. It is a lovely gift for anyone you know who loves chocolate as much as me!

I would have liked a little more different mixes, maybe mint chocolate. An excellent set for the holiday season with high-quality Godiva chocolate.

See Related: Best Camper Accessories

Pet Food Travel Bags

It’s now easier than ever to feed your pet on the road (or while camping, at a family member’s house, etc.). Organization and convenience are so important when it comes to this. Keep everything in one place and avoid unnecessary spills and messes.

The Teamoy Silicone Collapsible Water Resistant Organizer is fantastic. I’ve used it with my dogs and am about to purchase one (or a few) for others. It has two food carriers, two collapsible bowls, and one water-resistant placemat.

It’s roomy enough to carry other supplies for your dog and has several divided spaces for ease of use. I wish it had an I.D. tag for when I bring my dogs to the kennel and that it had a solid base to it.

See Related: Cat Sedation Tips for Travel

Best Kids and Family Travel Gifts

Children can get fidgety on road trips even if they have music to listen to and toys that they can hold onto. That’s where family/kids’ travel gifts come into play. You can get top travel gifts to keep kids and adults entertained and engaged in learning and creativity.

Magnetic Racing Game

Kids and car travel can be a bit of a challenge. However, instead of just using devices for entertainment, it is an excellent opportunity to play more games and puzzles. This portable game makes a great gift.

My kids are entertained when we are on the go with this great little magnetic car racing game. It is so simple and portable, providing an inexpensive way to add fun to tedious car rides.

This little set works well for the price point, and I was impressed with the details and design. It functions well and is fun to play, which is a bonus. It does seem like it may not hold up for years, but it is a good stocking stuffer for younger kids and maybe even some nostalgic adults! This racing game makes a great addition to a game collection because you can never have too many games!

Family Card Game

Card games you can play as a family regardless of the age of the participants are great fun! It’s even better if it has some educational element. Guessing games make for an exciting time that lasts hours and keeps little ones occupied during long car rides.

Family Charades are a favorite of my own family. I’ve also bought it for my cousins’ and sisters’ families since I knew they spend time in the car, whether for holiday travel or the average daily trips.

It has more than 300 charades and is meant for two players up to as many as they want to play. It’s ideal for ages eight and up for vacations, family game nights, and mellow parties. The only thing I see wrong with it is that the cards are light and not coated.

See Related: Best Travel Accessories

Travel Journal

A travel journal is a beautiful gift for someone of any age. I find it inspiring and fun for kids to have a way to record their observations and thoughts on trips. You’ll never forget your adventures during holiday travels with this bold, bright travel journal from Lonely Planet Kids.

It features many writing topic suggestions, ideas for thinking more creatively, and lists that make this a fascinating book. The travel journal is among my younger cousins’ favorite gifts I’ve given them before leaving my house (since they have to travel half the day to get here).

Travel Builder Sets

Kids love to build! Adults also like using building sets like LEGOs to make fantastic creations. Get creative together while on the go with a builder set with a carrying case. I love the LEGO Classic Creative Suitcase Building Kit. This kit contains 213 classic-style pieces to help you tap into your imagination.

My friend, her husband, and their children get into playing with these on trips while in the car, in hotels, and sprawled on the floor on holidays with members of the extended family. This is one of the top fun travel gift ideas. I wish the top of the case had a LEGO attachment grid for even more convenience and fun.

See Related: Best Beach Blankets for Warm Travel

Art Board

Drawing and coloring are beloved activities no matter the age or level of skill. With the right tools and means of support, it’s possible to draw away wherever you are. The Crayola Light Up Tracing Pad lets little creative minds flourish. I got one for my cousin’s son, who uses it as often as possible on longer car trips.

It will be a big hit for my friends with kids this Christmas. Since it lights up, you can use it even in low-light settings, making it easier to trace lines. It comes with a graphite pencil, 12 short colored pencils, ten blank sheets, and ten tracing sheets.

You do need to purchase 3 AA batteries for the pad. It doesn’t fit your standard A4 size paper, but it’s easy enough to fix the page so it doesn’t shift too much. If you are set for a road trip, check out these books and audiobooks for kids.

What do travelers want in a gift?

Travelers want convenience, flexibility, and the ability to see more without cost. Let’s be honest. If you love to travel, you can relate. You want to maximize every experience to the best you possibly can.

These are the top “WANT” items according to travelers. Sure, there’s usually a new must-have gadget on the market every year, but not every traveler is looking for it. Certain items become essential parts of your travel routine when you travel enough.

This article will cover some top travel gifts and what they are best for. We’ll discuss what to give that person who never stays in one place for too long. You might want to pick up this list before heading to your weekend getaway house or last-minute flight tour destination! Even if they’re sitting around at home most days with little or no desire to go out and explore, travel gifts are always welcome.

It doesn’t even need to be pricey! For example, small gifts can have a considerable impact; what if you received access to a lounge for one trip? Yeah, sign me up.

Things to Consider When Buying a Travel Gift

When you have trouble creating a gift idea for your traveling friends or family members, you must stop and think about what type of traveler they are. Travelers prefer items that make their life easier for future trips.

So, they will likely go on long flights if they are a world traveler. If you know someone that loves national parks and outdoor adventure, you know that they value gadgets with long battery life or functional items like a luxury sleeping bag for camping. To find that perfect gift for active travelers, here are some different types of travelers to help you understand what they will be looking for as a gift:

• Family travelers (family travel, travel with children)
• Backpackers (camping items)
• Airport lounge enthusiasts and “perks” travelers (snacks, drinks, luxury, entertainment devices)
• Luxury travel enthusiasts (high-quality travel accessories, luxury hotel stays)
• Business travelers (travel-themed games and activities, travel journals, wifi routers)
• World travelers (the international travel gifts like chargers and outlet converters)
• Thrifty travelers (they want to travel a LOT but on a budget, so get their plane tickets or a hotel room. It’s the perfect gift for the thrifty)

Hopefully, this helps you understand what your friend or family member will want in a travel-related gift for their next trip. Now, let’s dive deeper into the different types of travel gear to pair with those travel lovers’ personalities in your life.

Types of Travel Gift Ideas

Travel gifts are usually broken down into a few sets of types. If you know the different kinds of travel gifts out there, you’ll know exactly what to buy that will match the personality of that avid traveler in your life, whether they are the:

• adventure traveler,
• business traveler,
• frequent traveler or
• the international traveler.

Generally, travel products are broken down into a few sets of categories, including:

• Luggage and bags such as a travel purse or travel backpack
• Fun travel gifts such as camera gear, electronics, and gadgets
• Unique gift ideas such as travel experiences
• Practical gift ideas for travelers such as travel essentials and accessories like a universal travel adapter, passport holder, or travel neck pillows

Travel Bag [Good for the Adventure Traveler]

A travel bag can be the ultimate travel companion since it allows me to visit different places worldwide. It comes in various forms, such as small bags for carry-on or full explorer bags for traveling abroad. Here are some examples:

• The duffel bag will house all your stuff, like your leather jacket, coat, shoes, luggage, sunscreen, etc. It’s also often found in carry-on luggage.
• The shoulder strap and hip belt will keep you secure, drain your weight, and is also a great gripper. Lately, I have seen more of these included in carry-on luggage.
• Camera bag, which is perfect for the travel photographer that you know.

For the air. Regardless of where your journey takes you, a well-designed seat may be the only thing that prevents you from dozing off. A roll-in design with straps for securing luggage inside of my travel bags and putting them inside my travel backpack when I’m on the plane.

I typically fold my traveling bag into my check-in luggage (carry a carry-on), saddle, backpack, and carry-on bag, but if everything else fails, I can tuck in a wheeled duffel.

Some travel bags have padded laptop sleeves on them. I usually pack a laptop sleeve to keep my laptop away from my stomach; this has a zipper that can be inserted into the main compartment or wiped down with fabric.

Travel Essentials & Accessories [Good for Frequent Travelers]

You’re probably wondering what your favorite traveler needs to pack for an international trip or long-haul flight. It’s mainly a hybrid jacket, a passport holder, a phone, a laptop, straps, and a water bottle.

Travel accessories generally are not large-scale items and are included in your carry-on travel bag. These are one of the best gift ideas for the creative traveler as a Christmas or birthday gift. These travelers love the convenience and want their trips to run smoothly.

Unique Travel Gift Ideas

Packing cubes are a fantastic way to keep your stuff organized while traveling. They’re a tremendous unique travel gift or a life upgrade. To make the trip more comfortable, a journey might want to bring a light sweater, neck pillow, hat, and thermal cover below their flight. You could pack more than one suitcase for the trip or get a travel pillow and water bottle. But do not bring wire straps or rope as they will not fit in the “Packing Cube.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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