The 40+ Best Gifts for Travelers, From Flight Essentials to Road Trip Gadgets
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After cancellations and lost bags ruined no shortage of summer vacations, many people are looking forward to a relaxed and vaxxed fall travel season. The U.S. in June lifted all pre-flight testing requirements, however, all international visitors are still required to provide proof of vaccination.
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The European Union relaxed travel restrictions for vaccinated visitors last year, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also eased up its Level 4 travel health notices (the agency still recommends avoiding certain countries if you’re not up-to-date on your vaccines).
Whether you’re already shopping for holiday gifts, or you’re looking for presents for the frequent flyers and road-trippers in your life, we’ve rounded some of the best travel gifts for every type of adventurer.
Check out our top picks below, from luggage organizers by Hollywood-loved brand Away (Meghan Markle and Jessica Alba have been spotted with its luggage) to red-eye-ready essentials for frequent flyers from Shay Mitchell’s travel label Béis and more. And for those on-the-go giftees who won’t be home to accept deliveries anytime soon, gift cards are also a shipping-free option.
Looking for gifting ideas for tech lovers and other recipients? Check out more from The Hollywood Reporter‘s other holiday gift guides.
1.
Béis Soft-Sided Luggage
Founded by Dollface actress Shay Mitchell, cool travel accessories brand Béis launched its first collection of soft-sided luggage. Priced from $198 to $298 and available in carry-on and check-in sizes, the rolling suitcases conveniently collapse for easy storage and feature convenient compartments and for laptops, keys, portable chargers and other essentials.
Béis Soft-Sided Collapsible Carry-On Roller
2. Getaway House Gift Card
Minimalist nature lovers won’t mind forgoing the fuss that comes with massive vacation homes with gift card for a Getaway retreat. The tiny cabin rental company’s dog-friendly Outposts are located just outside of Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Portland and other major cities, and stays range from $99 to $319 and up per night.
Getaway House Gift Card
3. Eddie Bauer Stowaway 30L Packable Backpack
This ultralight and versatile daypack by Eddie Bauer makes a great gift for anyone who wants to stay prepared wherever they’re heading, from day hikes to overseas trips. The 30-liter carryall is made of water-resistant 200D ripstop polyester and can also accommodate a hydration pack. Wearers have plenty of ways to organize their belongings within the two exterior zipper pockets and side mesh pockets, and the bag measures only 9 inches by 8 inches by 2.5 inches when folded up neatly into its built-in storage pouch.
4. Etekcity Portable Luggage Scale
Overpacking can be totally avoidable when you give your favorite traveler this portable luggage scale, which can weigh baggage up to 110 pounds. The pocket-sized device conveniently turns off automatically to save the battery, and it also senses your luggage’s temperature.
Etekcity Portable Luggage Scale
5. Atlas Coffee Club Subscription
For when they can’t hop on a plane and sip on an espresso or latte at a coffee bar across the world, Atlas Coffee Club’s monthly subscription will deliver global cups of joe to them instead along with a postcard from where the beans were grown. Choose from half, single or double bag subscriptions every two or four weeks; as well their roast preference (light to dark or a variety) and grind type (whole bean or ground).
Atlas Coffee Club Subscription
6. How to Get Away by Laura May Todd
If their perfect vacation involves cozying up in a cabin or decorating their own abode like a home away from home, author Laura May Todd’s How to Get Away is filled with inspiring imagery and expertise from architects, designers and homeowners. From modern forest respites and contemporary cottages to coastal retreats and more, the 256-page coffee table book explores seven types of retreats that will spark even more wanderlust.
‘How to Get Away’ by Laura May Todd
7. SeatDreamzzz Wall Pillow
Not business class? No problem — SeatDreamzzz’ handy wall pillow lets frequent jet-setters or road trippers rest their heads comfortably wherever they are. The inflatable pillow is finished with soft fabric and deflates to the size of a soda can.
SeatDreamzzz Wall Pillow
8. Monos Carry-On Pro Plus
Your favorite eco-conscious flyer would no doubt appreciate Monos’ Carry-On Pro Plus, which is one sale during the luxe travel accessory brand’s Valentine’s Day blowout. It recently added Climate Neutral certification to their sustainability status, which also includes membership in the environmental advocacy network 1% of the Planet. The Canada-based brand is known for its best-selling aerospace-grade polycarbonate suitcases made with high-performance materials from Japan and Germany, and this expanded version of its “unbreakable” design features a front compartment with mesh zippered organizers and space for a 15-inch laptop. Vegan leather accents, smooth and silent 360-degree spinner wheels, a built-in compression pad and a four-position telescoping handle round out the luggage’s stylish and sleek features.
Monos Carry-On Pro Plus (reg. $347)
9. Cadence Build Your 6 Bundle
These hexagonal capsules by Cadence will help your giftee save space while keeping their skincare, jewelry, medication, and more all in one place. The tops, sides, and labels are magnetic, so the pieces snap together into a honeycomb design, and the wide mouth makes it easy to add your favorite apothecary products (while ditching the travel-sized bottles). The labels are removable and customizable, and the containers are made from a blend of recycled plastic pulled from beaches and reused scrap plastic.
Cadence Build Your 6 Bundle
10. Vibes High Fidelity Earplugs
Whether they’re a touring musician or a jet-setting festgoer, these reusable noise-canceling earplugs by Vibes protect your giftee’s hearing. Fitted with silicon tips (which come in different sizes for a snug fit), the earbuds filter out damaging decibel levels without silencing out all sound, so wearers can still enjoy concerts and other environments where they want to be tuned into their surroundings.
Vibes High Fidelity Earplugs
11. T3 Afar Travel Sized Hair Dryer
For the loved one who wants a good hair day no matter their locale, T3’s new Afar travel-sized hair dryer offers full-sized power in a more compact and lightweight device. It’s 25 percent lighter and 30 percent smaller than the brand’s regular dryer, and features six heat and speed combinations powered by T3’s IonAir technology. A folding handle and auto dual voltage round out the traveler-friendly design.
T3 Afar Travel Sized Hair Dryer
12. Samsonite Stryde 111 Carry-On Spinner
Samsonite’s newest Stryde 111 luxury collection ($450 to $700) includes a carry-on and medium and large glider suitcases with a built-in LED lighting system in the handles for better nighttime visibility. Each piece also has an eco-friendly lining made of recycled materials, dual-lined zippered accessory pockets and compartments for wet items. The carry-on boasts USB charging ports and an integrated TSA lock, while the gliders include a lay-flat toiletry kit.
Samsonite Stryde 111 Carry-On Spinner
13. 57 Hours Gift Card
For the build-their-own-adventure type who also doesn’t mind letting a pro handle the planning, a gift card to 57 Hours will let them book outdoor excursions guided by an expert. From rock climbing in Joshua Tree and backpacking in Alaska, to hiking Iceland’s volcanic trails and a 15-day trek on the Annapurna circuit in Nepal, there’s truly something for every type of expeditioner.
57 Hours Gift Card
14. Clear One-Year Membership
Give your well-traveled loved one the gift of hassle-free, touchless flight check-ins via a one-year membership to Clear, the speedy airport identification service that’s certified by the Department of Homeland Security. The company’s dedicated members-only lane lets people skip the general line, and its secure stations use biometric data instead of traditional paper documents to identify users. Recipients will need to provide a valid government-issued ID when they register, and Clear also has a Health Pass service that helps users manage their COVID-19 testing and vaccination information for easier entry to sports and entertainment venues and other places.
Clear has locations at Delta and United Airlines terminals in over 50 airports and venues across the U.S., including in Austin, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami and New York.
Clear One-Year Membership
15. Wander Beauty Golden Hour Skincare Kit
Designed specifically for skincare-obsessed wanderlusts, Wander Beauty’s Golden Hour kit helps soothe and rejuvenate tired eyes — and turns any hotel room into an impromptu spa. The set comes with ten of the brand’s best-selling Baggage Claim gold eye masks (which leave the under eyes looking brighter), a mini Sight C-er Vitamin C concentrate and a pink satin headband.
Wander Beauty Golden Hour Skincare Kit
16. Anker Magnetic Wireless Portable Charger
For the Apple aficionado whose phone is always out of juice, Anker’s magnetic portable wireless charger (available in other stylish colors) makes it easy for them to stay powered up while on the go.
Anker Magnetic Wireless Portable Charger
17. SteamLine Luggage The Diplomat Crossbody Bag
SteamLine’s luxury luggage keeps the style set in a travel state of mind, even when they’re not boarding a plane, train or automobile. (Reese Witherspoon has been spotted with the brand’s pink Correspondent suitcases.) This cross-body bag by the brand has a vintage-inspired steamer trunk look, complete with a three-dial combination lock, striped lining, an interior wall pocket and protective metal feet.
SteamLine Luggage The Diplomat Crossbody Bag
18. Lord Jones x Tamara Mellon High Formula CBD Stiletto Cream
No, the hemp-derived CBD in Lord Jones’ Stiletto Cream won’t make wearers feel higher than the plane they’re flying in. A dollop of this cream (formulated exclusively for Hollywood-loved footwear designer Tamara Mellon) on the heels and toes helps relieve sore and tired feet, while the fruit AHAs gently remove dead skin cells for soft and smooth steppers while traveling or at home.
Lord Jones x Tamara Mellon High Formula CBD Stiletto Cream
19. Sony WF-1000XM3 Noise Canceling Truly Wireless Earbuds
Silent flights (and nights) and up to 24 hours of battery life await with Sony’s WF-1000XM3 noise-canceling Bluetooth earbuds, which are equipped with a built-in mic for hands-free calling and Alexa voice controls. Adaptive sound control gives listeners a smart listening experience as the devices automatically switch to ambient sound mode depending on the environment.
Sony WF-1000XM3 Noise Canceling Truly Wireless Earbuds (reg. $200)
20. Amazon Essentials Packable Water-Resistant Puffer Hooded Jacket
When they don’t know what weather they’ll be landing in, Amazon’s water-resistant puffer hooded jacket (available in women’s and men’s sizes) makes it easy for giftees to pack and unpack for unpredictable temperatures.
Amazon Essentials Men’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Hooded Puffer Jacket
21. Samsonite and Sarah Jessica Parker Shoeful Convertible Duffel
Whether they’re a Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda or Samantha, this convertible duffle bag from And Just Like That star Sarah Jessica Parker’s collaboration with Samsonite will help shoe-obsessed nomads keep their stilettos (and the rest of their travel essentials) in one stylish and organized carryall. One of Oprah Winfrey’s favorite things of 2021, the three-in-one backpack, shoulder bag and top handle tote is made of water-resistant nylon features built-in compartments for a 15.6-inch laptop and other items.
Samsonite and Sarah Jessica Parker Shoeful Convertible Duffel
22. Wise Owl Outfitters Portable Hammock
For the vagabonds who want to be ready to hang out at a moment’s notice, Wise Owl Outfitters’ portable hammock lets them post up at camp (or at airports, if necessary). It’s made of 210D ripstop nylon and takes about a minute to set up; a kids version is also available.
Wise Owl Outfitters Portable Hammock
23. Speck Luggage Tag Pro
Pair your favorite frequent flyer Apple’s AirTag with Speck’s sleek luggage tag, which lets users attach the tracking device to luggage, baggage and other gear for peace of mind.
Speck Luggage Tag Pro
24. The Nue Co. Instant Stress Relief Fragrance
Not every journey is as relaxing as the destination, and The Nue Co.’s Instant Stress Relief fragrance spray was designed to induce calm for travelers (or anyone else who needs to relax). The vegan and cruelty-free scent is hexane-, paraben- and phthalate-free, and the musky spray boasts notes of cardamom, myrrh, jasmine, cedarwood, palo santo and other woodsy aromas for keeping chill on flights, road trips and more.
The Nue Co. Instant Stress Relief Fragrance
25. Spot X Two-Way Satellite Messaging and GPS Tracking Device
If they frequently explore far-flung locales that are outside of cell coverage areas, gift them the peace of mind of reliable communication with Spot X’s satellite messaging and GPS tracking device with Bluetooth. Users can connect to their smartphone to access their contacts and easily send messages and S.O.S. alerts, track their routes, quickly check in with family or friends and more. A Spot X contract plan is required; prices range from $12 to $40 per month depending on coverage needs.
26. Paravel Mini See-All Vanity Case Bundle
This chic two-piece set of vanity cases from sustainable brand Paravel (spotted on Katy Perry, Emma Roberts and others) ensures that your busy loved one is always organized in style. Made of eco-friendly canvas that’s certified by the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and Global Recycle Standard, the cases come in two convenient sizes and feature sustainably sourced leather top handles. Add a monogram for the perfect personalized finishing touch.
Paravel Mini See-All Vanity Case
27. July Carry-On Luggage
Got a fashionable globe-trotter who’s always on top of the trends (but could use an upgrade to their well-worn suitcase)? Gift them a new piece of luxe luggage from Australian travel accessories brand July, which recently made its stateside debut. Available in an array of stylish shades, this carry-on 46-liter suitcase is built with a crush-proof shell made in Germany, aluminum bumpers, a hidden laundry bag and SilentMove 360-degree spinner wheels. it’s finished with an ejectable USB-C battery and an integrated TSA lock for hassle-free security checks, and you can also customize it with a monogram.
July Carry-On Suitcase
28. SublimeWare International Power Adapter
Not every hotel room or charming AirBnb is designed with modern technology in mind — and for frequent travelers who also tote around cameras, smartwatches, tablets and other gear, this international power adapter ensures that their gadgets are juiced up no matter the locale.
SublimeWare International Power Adapter
29. Artifact Uprising Gift Card
Inspire your favorite traveler to relive their adventures with a gift card to Artifact Uprising, which lets recipients create beautiful hardcover photo books, calendars, framed prints, wood display boxes and other memorabilia.
Artifact Uprising Gift Card
30. Byredo La Sélection Nomade Trio
For when they can’t decamp to far-flung destinations or don’t want to leave their favorite fragrances at home, this trio of luxe eaux de parfums by cult-cool brand Byredo — Anne Hathaway, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and stylist Courtney Mays have said they’re fans — will keep recipients smelling chic during their travels. The three-piece set includes the best-selling scents Bal d’Afrique (a warm fragrance with notes of bergamot, lemon, neroli, African marigold, violet, musk, Moroccan cedarwood and more), the light and floral Blanche (notes of white rose, pink pepper, peony and sandalwood) and the woody Gypsy Water (bergamot, lemon, juniper berries, pepper, pine needles and vanilla)
Byredo La Sélection Nomade Trio
31. Away Insider Packing Cubes, Set of 6
For the hyper-organized wanderer, Away’s structured nylon packing cubes help contain clothing and essentials without adding extra weight. This six-piece modular set includes slim and wide cases in small, medium and large sizes. Each zippered cube is made of water-resistant material and topped with mesh so travelers can see what’s inside.
Away Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 6)
32. Anker PowerCore 20000 mAh USB Portable Charger
Unless your recipient is planning to travel off the grid, one of the best travel gifts you can give is a portable charger. This power bank by Anker has a 20,000mAh cell capacity, so it’s capable of providing about four to five charges for a smartphone and about two charges for a small tablet. It’s equipped with a fast-charging 20-watt USB port and a standard-charge 18-watt USB port, and includes two cables (USB-A to USB-C, and USB-C to USB-C) and a travel pouch.
Anker PowerCore 20000 mAh USB Portable Charger
33. Maya Brenner Designs 14-Karat Gold State Necklace
Got a homesick transplant or someone who just wants to rep their home state? Available in a range of U.S. states, this 14-karat yellow gold pendant necklace by star-loved jeweler Maya Brenner (Rihanna, Yvonne Strahovski and Meghan Markle are just a few who’ve worn her pieces) comes on a delicate 16-inch cable chain necklace.
Maya Brenner Designs 14-Karat State Necklace
34. Polaroid Go Instant Camera Starter Set
Photography enthusiasts won’t mind making space in their luggage for one of Polaroid’s newest travel-friendly instant cameras, which clocks in at just 4.1 inches long by 3.3 inches wide by 2.4 inches tall. The palm-sized device produces approximately 2.6-by-2-inch photos, and shutterbugs can play with double exposure, flash or no flash and a self-timer. This giftable set comes with two packs of color film, a camera strap and a photo album.
Polaroid Go Instant Camera Starter Set
35. Bellroy Travel Set
For the cool creative that’s always in transit, treat them to this minimalist travel set from Bellroy, which uses sustainably sourced leather and materials for all of its products. The travel folio with RFID protection fits two passports, four to eight credit cards, cash, boarding passes and other essential documents, while the wide-opening pouch is ideal for stowing away (and easily accessing) toiletries, cables and more.
Bellroy Travel Set
36. Airbnb Gift Card
For the wanderlust who prefers experiences over tchotchkes, contribute to their next vacation fund with an Airbnb gift card. Available in increments of $50, this is one of the best travel gifts for frequent adventurers looking for their next getaway, as Airbnb has thousands of hosts located across the globe.
Airbnb Gift Card
37. Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack
If your adventure-loving giftee is furry and four-pawed, this hiking backpack by Ruffwear ensures they (and their biped parent) have the proper carryall for stowing a day’s worth of essentials. It has two saddlebags designed to stabilize the weight, reflective trim for the evening and other low-visibility settings, and reinforced leap attachment points.
Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack
38. Kitsch 11-Piece Ultimate Travel Bottle Set
Perfect as a stocking stuffer gift for travelers who don’t want to leave their beauty and grooming routines at home, this 11-piece travel set comes with reusable bottles and containers in stylish black and white prints. It includes three flat squeeze pouches, a mini spray bottle, two pump bottles, two mini jars with resealable lids and a storage case, plus a funnel, spatula and pipette for easily refilling. Everything is TSA approved and BPA-free, too.
Kitsch 11-Piece Ultimate Travel Bottle Set
39. Grayl GeoPress 24-Ounce Water Purifier Bottle
Whether they’re a backpacker, a preparedness enthusiast or someone who just prefers peace of mind when they’re sipping water in the wild, your loved one will appreciate this filtering 24-ounce water bottle from Grayl. The purifier cartridge removes viruses, bacteria and protozoa and filters out particulates (such as dirt and microplastics), chemicals and heavy metals from a total of 65 gallons of water before it needs to be replaced.
Grayl Geopress 24-Ounce Water Purifier Bottle
40. White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap
A luxe cashmere scarf is a vacation-ready staple that your giftee might not splurge on for themselves, making it the perfect travel gift. Jet-setting stars like Angelina Jolie, Eva Longoria, and Jennifer Garner are among those who have worn White + Warren’s best-selling oversized wrap, which can transform into a warm blanket on chilly days and cold flights. This unisex accessory is made of seven-gauge, two-ply cashmere and measures 81 inches by 36 inches. It’s available in an array of colors and in a smaller size.
White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap
41. 50 States Traveled Journal
Stateside explorers can keep track of their favorite meals, locales, and memories across America with this “50 States Traveled” Journal. Handmade in Colorado, this book includes two pages of fun prompts for commemorating visits to every state, such as “Who did you go with?”, “Did anything unexpected happen?” and more.
50 States Traveled Journal
42. Vanelc UV Light Sanitizer Wand
Gone are the days when plane passengers raise an eyebrow at the seatmate who promptly wipes down surfaces and armrests with hand sanitizer. Used for cleaning hotels, hair salons, film sets, and movie theaters, UV light sanitizers have been proven by the FDA to be effective at disinfecting germs, so they’re great gifts for germ-aware travelers who want to be extra cautious with their cleanliness. This UV-C light wand by Vanelc can kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria in about eight seconds.
43. Calpak Neck Pillow and Eye Mask Set
For the red-eye regular or anyone else with a long trip ahead, Calpak’s neck pillow and eye mask set will help them get comfier shut-eye. The smooth, hypoallergenic silk won’t leave creases on the skin, and the pillow cover is removable and washable. The set comes with a clear carrying bag and it’s also available in navy. Oprah Winfrey is among fans of the brand, which also has collaborations with celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin and star-faved home organization pros The Home Edit on luggage and travel accessories.
Calpak Neck Pillow and Eye Set
44. United by Blue The Meal Kit
Eco-conscious campers will appreciate United by Blue’s reusable plastic-free dining set for two, which comes in a water-resistant recycled polyester carrying case and includes two stainless steel bowls, two eight-ounce stainless steel tumblers, and two stainless steel sporks. The case also has outer pockets and an aluminum carabiner clip, so your favorite on-the-go giftee can easily stash away small items and attach the kit to their backpack.
United by Blue The Meal Kit
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