50 Best Gifts for Friends Going Traveling in 2025
This article may contain affiliate links where I make a small commission for purchases you make from links that you click from this article. By purchasing through these links, you support me at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support.
Do you or someone you know have big travel plans coming up in 2025? No matter if it’s a honeymoon, career break, digital nomad trip, weekend warrior, road trip, travel abroad, semester abroad, or even business travel – everyone needs travel gear! That’s why I put together this list of practical gifts for friends going traveling.
I’ve been traveling for 18 years as a travel blogger; for 11 of them, I was nomadic and lived out of my suitcase, so I have developed a few gear ‘favorites’ over those years. I’ve put together a list of my favorite fun travel gifts and gear that are perfect gift ideas for someone going traveling. This isn’t just a standard list of Christmas gifts for travelers or the frequent traveler; there are some unique travel gift ideas I’ve included that have been lifesavers for my travels.
These are all products that I’ve personally used during the last 18 years of traveling. When you live out of a suitcase, you don’t have room for stuff in your life that isn’t great!
Table of Contents
How This Travel Gift List Works
First – I update this list every year with new things I’ve tried or remove things that are no longer available. It was last updated in November 2024.
I have split this list into categories of the types of gear you need for travel. Within each category, I have tried to include a variety of price points.
Please note that I take travel gear really seriously. Unlike many publications, I believe that reviewing a piece of gear implies actually using that piece of gear for an extended amount of time. I use the gear I’m writing about, not just once but many times. This isn’t simply about getting you to shop on Amazon; it’s about getting you the best travel gifts and gear solutions for upcoming travels.
The list is to give you ideas for cool gifts for travel buddies, for someone with an upcoming trip, or for people who are frequent travelers and constantly on the road. These are some of my favorite, most important things for travel. Some are perfect gifts for women who travel.
However, I didn’t include EVERYTHING in this gift guide. If you are looking for specialty travel gear for a specific trip, then check out my other gear guides. Or feel free to leave me a comment below and ask me any travel gear questions!
Travel During Rainy Season Travel Gear List
Winter Travel Gear List
Antarctica Travel Gear List
India Monsoon Season Travel Gear List
Essential Hiking Gear List
My Favorite Hiking and Travel Gear List
My Favorite Travel Photography Gear
This list contains some affiliate links. If you choose to purchase items through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help reduce the costs of running this site – that’s it…full disclosure.
The Best Gift Ideas for a Traveler – Give an Experience
Before I get into physical products, I want to give a shout-out to less stuff and more experiences! Check out some of my favorite gifts for a traveler below.
1. Tinggly Experience Gift Box
Tinggly is an experience-based gift that allows you to give a cool travel experience as a gift. There are thousands of experiences the gift recipient can choose from, and it all comes in a great ‘gift box’ if you are one of those people who like to wrap a physical gift! I love this fun gift idea for travelers, honeymooners, staycations, and career breakers – it’s a truly unique gift. And the best part is this gift doesn’t require any space in anyone’s home!
Tinggly is a global gift collection of experiences people can redeem around the world. I love this gift idea for travelers, honeymooners, staycations, and career breakers – it’s a truly unique gift, that takes up no space!
Learn how to share the gift of travel
2. Get Your Guide Tours Around the World
Another fun experience-based gift any travel lover would enjoy is tours from Get Your Guide. This is a super way to supplement a trip with a city tour, cooking class, museum visit, etc. This is less adventure activity-focused than Tinggly and more city-focused. Just put in the destination your friends are traveling to and see what they offer!
Wherever your travels take you, Get Your Guide experiences show you the unique and unmissable things to do in your destination. This is perfect for adding experiences to your trip!
3. National Parks Pass for 2025
This is the favorite of all my vacation gift ideas. It’s the best travel gift idea that keeps giving ALL YEAR! Did you know that you can skip the lines at the park entrance and get a National Park Annual Pass from REI? It’s so simple! Plus, REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation, and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.
The pass covers entrance for a driver and all passengers in a personal vehicle at per-vehicle fee areas or up to 4 adults at sites that charge per person (kids 15 & under get in free). I get an annual parks pass every year – it pays off as soon as you visit three parks as normal daily entry fees cost $30 a car.
Skips the lines and get your Annual National Parks Pass from REI! The America the Beautiful Pass Covers entrance for a driver and all passengers in a personal vehicle at per-vehicle fee areas or up to 4 adults at sites that charge per person (kids 15 & under get in free)
Learn about some of my Favorite National Parks to Visit
Why You Should Go to Lake Clark – A Least Visited National Park
US National Parks in Pictures
10 Days Rafting in Grand Canyon National Park
Badlands National Park
4. Get a Local Tour Guide
For the independent travelers in your life, consider this cool travel experience gift – a local tour guide! Tours By Locals makes it easy to find reliable, experienced, and inspiring local tour guides in 190 different countries. It’s a way to craft your own unique tour and do what you want to do on your timeline. I used them on a recent trip to Merida, Mexico, and they were the highlight of our entire trip! You can simply get your traveling friend a Tours By Locals gift card and then let them choose the guide they want to hire! Check out all the destinations they cover here.
Suitcases, Backpacks, and Packing Essentials for Travel Gift Ideas
Let’s start at the beginning, a suitcase. This might seem like a big travel gift, but it is a thoughtful and essential travel gift for a really special friend! I lived out of a suitcase for 11 years as I traveled the world as a nomad. For me, it’s really important that a suitcase is durable, yet light. I’ve been testing a few out this year – some made the cut, and some didn’t – but here are my favorites.
5 & 6. Checked Luggage
If you’ve followed me for a while, then you know I love my Eagle Creek gear – I’ve been carrying Eagle Creek suitcases for all of my 17 years of traveling. The Gear Warrior is the latest one I’ve been using.
Why I like it: There are no bells and whistles or special compartments – it’s just basic – and that’s what keeps it light and versatile. You can fit a TON into it when you have to. The material is durable, water-repellent, and lightweight. It can also expand if you do a little shopping on your trip. I use Eagle Creek packing cubes (more on those below!) and organizers to keep everything organized in the bag, and it works perfectly. The Gear Warrior comes in a carry-on and checked size. They currently only have four-wheel options. However, my older one is a 2-wheel version. Either would be super for a travel gift!
A new addition to my favorite suitcase list! The spinner wheels are smoooooth. But most important thing about a suitcase is it's quality - and this is one sturdy suitcase. The handles and zippers are made with tough travel in mind. Made with bluesign approved, 100% recycled polyester fabrics, a waxed canvas with a PFC free durable water-resistant coating. And it even comes with a compression packing cube.
For the person who checks luggage, check out this Cotopaxi super durable wheeled duffel. I love this for adventure travel where I’m carrying lots of outdoor gear (why do hiking boots take so much space?!!). I love the
This is a tough bag that can take a beating as checked luggage. I love the big, 2 wheels - great for cobbled streets, dirt roads, and stairs (places where 4 wheels have problems). While the compression straps to keep everything in place. The carry handles on the top are great for lifting into cars/buses/trains.
7. Collapsible Extra Bag
Any time I go on a trip I always take an extra bag – just in case I end up coming back with more than I left with! The key is that it can fold up into a small bag, so it doesn’t take up much space. I like to use a super lightweight backpack as my extra bag because I can also use it for simple day hikes. I use my Mystery Ranch In and Out backpack. It folds up into a tiny little bag – perfect for travel. The backpack was also perfect for day hikes.
This featherweight backpack that folds up into a tiny little bag is perfect for taking on trips when you find that you may need an additional bag when you come home!
8. Eagle Creek Sling Bag
A perfectly sized sling bag for travel! I use it as my personal carry-on bag when I need something a little larger than a hip pack.
This sling can hold my small mirrorless camera which makes it really versatile. Plus, I bring my wallet and other essential purse items. It even has a bottle holder! It’s great to take out exploring a town, racing through an airport, or even a little day hike bag. It might not work for a fancy night on the town, but it’s a great all-purpose travel bag/purse!
Perfect for travel, this 7L cross body bag allows to you carry everything important with you including a bottle of water! It allows you to keep your hands free and it easy to wear on your back or your front for a more secure fit.
Discover the best camera bag for travel – organized by travel style
9. Fjallraven Hip Pack
Fanny Packs are cool again. I hate to admit it – but fanny packs are back ‘in’ AND…they are great for travel! I have actually stopped using a purse and have become one of ‘those’ people…A person who carries a fanny pack…now called a hip pack! This Fjallraven hip pack fits the necessities plus my phone and it has a hidden pocket for travel documents too that I love – and it’s washable!
This hip pack/fanny pack is great for travel as they can hold your essentials that you need to get to quickly (passport, phone, wallet), but securely. I typically wear mine around my shoulder/chest as opposed to around my waist. I just feel like it's more secure that way. This cute hip pack by Fjallraven is the perfect size for me and I love that you can throw it in the laundry and clean it up after 4 weeks traveling around Europe!
10. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes is the key to packing happiness – and they will absolutely make your travel-loving friends happy! Packing cubes turn your bag into a piece of furniture. I use mine to organize my different types of clothes, just like I would a dresser; this packing cube has t-shirts, this one has pants, this one has socks. You get the idea – it’s packing bliss.
I have used Eagle Creek Packing Solutions for years, I love their original packing cubes which are pretty durable and can fit a lot of items snugly.
These are the original packing cubes from Eagle Creek - and I must admit - they are my favorite. ...
This year, I also started using Thule
This compression packing cube set is a must for being able to organize your suitcase for a trip. The zippers are sturdy and durable which is key for a compression cube. I have been amazed at how many things I could compress thanks to the strong zippers.
11. Stasher Bags
I was introduced to Stasher Bags a couple of years ago. They are marketed for food storage, but I use them for travel! If you’re an organized packer or an aspiring zero-waste traveler, you’re going to want to travel with several empty stasher bags in your luggage… stasher bags can do it all! I use a big one in my toiletry bag to put my liquids in, just in case they explode. I used to always use a plastic bag, but I love the Stasher bag as a multiple-use solution!
Toiletry Items for Travel Gift Ideas
Toiletry items are a large part of packing, so make sure that you have the most efficient and earth-friendly ones! Here’s the gear I use in my toiletry case…including the case. These are great travel care package ideas!
12. Hanging Toiletry Bag
I’ve been using this style of hanging toiletry bag since the day I left in 2006. I like the different compartments and the fact that you can stand the bottles upright. You can fit more than you think in this beauty!
13. Silicone Travel Bottles
I started using these reusable bottles for my shampoos and conditioners, and I love them! They have big openings to make it easy to fill, and they have a locking mechanism, so there will be no surprise spills!
14. Travel Washcloth
I know what you are thinking…a washcloth…huh? But trust me when I say that this is one of my favorite essential but cheap travel gifts. I personally am a washcloth person, and I don’t like to use the ones in hotels with liquid soap (which you frequently find in a hotel room). But this gem is really tiny and weightless and suds up so easily with just a little drop of liquid soap! The best part is that it’s completely odor-free and super fast drying, plus it has the texture of a loofah sponge. A little gentle exfoliation never hurt anyone on the road! It’s great for camping trips and backpacking, too. This is a great stocking stuffer present for a travelling friend!
15. Kula Antimicrobial Pee Cloth
Yes, you read that right. For the female who travels and often finds herself out in nature when nature calls, this pee cloth is amazing! I used to carry toilet paper for peeing while hiking – but then you have to pack it out and generally, I would just be lazy and ‘drip dry’. Until I learned about a pee cloth! This can snap onto your backpack and you can use it to dry (it’s odor resistant and antimicrobial AND has a waterproof side where you hold it), and then snap it to your backpack to dry out quickly as you hike along!
When nature calls (and it will), the Kula Cloth Reusable Antimicrobial Pee Cloth keeps your hands dry on one side while sopping moisture into the absorbent, antimicrobial side that won't show stains. Perfect for hiking when you have to pee in nature. This cloth is so much better than toilet paper and can easily be cleaned when you get home.
16. Scrubba Wash Bag
This is my new favorite piece of travel gear for 2024! Scrubba wash bag allows a machine-quality wash anywhere in just minutes. With the Scrubba bag, I can say goodbye to hotel sink laundry! The bag has the washing instructions printed on it; all you need is water and some soap. It also doubles as a dry bag! Being able to do a few pieces of laundry while traveling means you can pack fewer clothes, travel lighter, and save money on laundry!
This hand 'washing machine' for hotel and travel means I never have to do sink laundry again! This large bag has solved so many travel problems for me. The bumps inside the bag provides a wash board effect and cleans your clothing better than you ever could by hand. Plus - the bag doubles as a dry bag! If you are a sink laundry traveler - you must try the Scrubba!
17. Tide Travel Sink Packets
I often find myself doing a little ‘laundry’ on a longer trip. Instead of trying to use the hotel soap that is attached to the wall, just squeeze one of these single-use Tide packets into your Scrubba bag (see above)! Also, great stocking stuffers!
I always throw one of these in my toiletry bag when I travel. Many times when I travel I don't need to do an entire load of laundry - but just a few things in the sink and these are perfect for just that! Does 3 Loads (3 packs of 3)
Gifts That Make Flying Easier
I spend a lot of time on planes, so comfort is my priority. Even though I sit back in the economy the majority of the time, I have found some ways to be comfortable. Here are my best travel gifts for friend groups who are going traveling and sitting back in cheap seats like me! These are suitable as frequent flyers’ gifts or for the occasional traveler.
Tip – Note down below I’ve included my favorite travel pants and
18. Stop the Plastic Waste and Bring a Water Bottle
Have you ever thought about how much plastic is used on a plane? Every passenger gets multiple drinks in plastic cups. Say no to this airplane waste and take your own bottle when you travel. I always bring my water bottles on planes and simply ask them to fill them up or fill them up at the airport before I get on. Hydration is important…and so are single-use bottles! Here are a couple of brands that I love!
One of the things I like about Klean Kanteen insulated bottles is that they have a system where you really just need to purchase one insulated bottle and then use their interchangeable caps for your different needs: caps for sipping drinks, straws lids for cold drinks, or chug caps. One bottle is really all you need! In addition, they continue to innovate, making their latest containers with certified 90% post-consumer recycled steel. By using recycled instead of virgin steel, Klean Kanteen will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions from steel by 40%, achieve a 30% reduction in energy demand, and a 60-80% reduction in ecosystem impacts.
One of the things I like about Klean Kanteen is that they have a system where you really just need to purchase one insulated bottle and then use their interchangeable caps for your different needs; caps for sipping drinks, straws lids for cold drinks, or chug caps. One bottle is really all you need!
19. Neck Pillow
I’ve tried many different neck pillows, but I keep coming back to this one! This memory foam Neck Pillow provides enough support, AND it folds up pretty small – the best of both worlds. Plus – you can get this one with an eye mask and ear plugs…you’ll feel like you are flying first class with this neck pillow bundle!
20. Best Travel Earplugs
Planes can be really noisy, so be prepared with earplugs. However don’t bother with those soft squishy ones, use silicon earplugs. I was actually introduced to these when I hiked the Camino de Santiago trail. The silicon earplugs block so much more noise; I didn’t even hear people getting up and packing around me in the morning! You can use them for a few days and then replace them with another pair.
These soft silicone-putty plugs mold very comfortably to the unique contours of any ear. They are...
21. Airplane Seatback Organizer
I don’t know about you – but the first thing I do when I get to my airplane seat is take out my essentials (cell phone, laptop, charging cords, and water bottle) in my little seatback pocket. Inevitably everything sort of just sinks down to the bottom of the pocket. No more bottomless pockets! You can use this airplane seatback organizer to streamline your travels!
Organize space on your next flight. This clever pocket organizer fits all standard coach tray tables. It is easy to install, simply slip it over your tray table and let it bring comfort and convenience to holiday travel, making it the ultimate travel essential
22. Airplane Leg Sling
Even though you may be flying in economy – there are ways you can be more comfortable in your seat. Leg slings provide a way for you to get your feet elevated more on long-haul flights and decrease the pressure on your lower back
Consider this your portable foot hammock that changes your economy class seat to a premium seat! Elevate your feet on flights or train rides with this Memory Foam sling. Increases comfort and reduces swelling
23. Luggage locks
I normally check bags when I travel, so I always use a TSA-approved lock on each bag I check. Will this ensure your stuff doesn’t get stolen…no – nothing will ensure that. However, it will deter people from doing quick grabs. In addition – I often use these simple locks to lock my bags in my hotel rooms when I’m out touring around. It just gives me a little more piece of mind when I travel. It’s an easy, cheap gift for travelers, and you can never have too many!
Luggage locks are an essential item for me. Granted - if someone really wants to steal your bag or stuff - I'm sure they can. However, a lock will certainly deter someone form grabbing something quickly. TSA approved.
24. Melatonin Tablets
If you are like me and have trouble falling asleep on planes, then pack some Melatonin with you. It will help you fall asleep faster and also can aid in getting over jetlag!
Jetlag sucks - but one thing I do to help me get through it quicker is take Melatonin tablets. These help you Fall Asleep Faster, Stay Asleep Longer, Strawberry Flavor, 10mg, 100Count
25. Priority Pass Lounge Membership
Now this is a sweet gift for your friends going traveling! Get lounge access at most airports around the world so you can wait out those inevitable long layovers in style and comfort! I love my Priority Pass membership – it has ‘saved me’ many times in my travels. They have a simple app to use to locate the lounges and provide some info about them. It sort of feels like you’re flying first class!
With a Priority Pass Membership, enjoy a VIP experience – whoever you fly with, in whatever class of travel and without the need to book in advance. Choose from three plans and on your next flight enjoy access to quiet, comfortable spaces with complimentary refreshments, something to read, Wi-Fi to tap in to, and even showers, bed and spa facilities to refresh in*.
Technology Travel Gifts
Technology is a part of our lives, and it is certainly a part of our travels. I know I depend on my phone when I travel – it is my guide, my map, and my safety. Here are a few of my best travel gift ideas around keeping that technology up and running and keeping your sanity!
26. Phone Strap
Never be in fear of dropping or losing your phone again while on vacation! I used to simply carry my phone in my pocket when I traveled – but I was always in fear of it getting stolen or dropping it somewhere in nature where I would lose it…like off a kayak! Secure your valuable phone around your neck or slung it as a cross-body with this cool phone strap. It’s easy to use and ‘install’ – It secures through your phone case
This is a travel game changer - never be in fear of dropping your phone again. I find this especially great for adventure travel where I find myself frequently taking pictures in high risk-of-drop situations. This is also a great item for expedition cruising. It was easy to adjust, durable with metal rings and clasps, and no messy hanging ends.
27 & 28. The Best Plug Adapter Solution for Every Situation
One of the best gifts for international travel is this pack of these Plug Adapters. I’m REALLY critical when it comes to plug adapter solutions. I’ve been in more situations where those ‘universal adapters’ Don’t work because they are too big and heavy and constantly fall out of the outlet – especially when you have a lot of things plugged into them. And unless you are traveling around the world – the universal adapters are really overkill. Most people travel to one country/region so you really only need to bring one small adapter at a time.
Adapter plugs for international travel. I like these because they aren't too bulky and heavy and they will work in the majority of outlets around the world.
In addition, I use a multi-plug power strip in conjunction with a single plug adapter solution. I have found that this is the best plug adapter solution for every travel situation. The multi-plug adapter should have a longer cord so that it alleviates the ‘too heavy and falls out of the socket’ issue. This allows the heavy part – the power strip – to sit on the floor. I like the Trond power strip because it is small and has 4 regular plug slots, 2 USB-A slots, and 2 USB-C slots. The cord wraps around the base so it takes minimal space in your bag. This combo of plug adapter and power strip is the best solution I have found for travel.
More electronics mean more need for plugs when you travel. This compact travel power strip serves as the perfect charging station for any country and situation. It has a 3 ft. wrapped cord, 4 AC outlets, 2 USB-C chargers, and 2 USB-A ports to power up to 8 devices!
29. Battery Charger
With the number of electronics we now depend on while we are traveling, you must have a backup for your essential items when they are low on battery. I decided to invest in a good portable battery charger – one that might be a bit bigger – but charges more. Plus – a portable charger is essential if you are traveling off-grid for a number of days and need multiple charges. This is what I used when I rafted the Grand Canyon.
When I am on more remote trips, this is perfect as it provides multiple charges for when you are ...
30. Jabra Noise Cancelling Ear Pods
I’m one of those people who can’t use Apple AirPods because the pods always drop out of my ears…and therefore, I hate them. I had to find something with a better design for my ears, and these Jabra Ear Pods are the answer for me. Plus – they are also a great price for good noise-cancelling technology! Easy to use with any Bluetooth product, long battery life – these are great presents for travellers!
I love noise cancelling on an airplane...it's essential for my sanity! These economical earbuds are super for travel and sports. If you are like me and the Apple Airpods don't stay in your ears - then these Jabra ones are the answer. They don't fall out and they have great noise cancellation, plus long battery life. Perfect for a long travel day!
31. Bose Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
If I could marry these headphones and have their babies, I would. I love, love, love them for long flights. When I started using noise-canceling headphones, my first reaction was, “Oh Baby…where have you been my whole traveling life?” I don’t know about you, but I adore shutting everyone out and just being in my own world for a bit. And that’s exactly what these do – better than any other on the market. They remove all of the low-level hums and buzzing from our completely plugged-in world, making you realize just how loud the world is.
Noise-Cancelling and perfect for flights if you want to simply be in your own little world! Plus they come with a chord that you can plug into airplane arm rests since blue tooth normally isn't an option on older planes.
32. Tech Pouch for Travel
This tech pouch comes with me on every trip. It’s perfect for keeping all of your various cords, batteries, external drives, and more. In fact, you won’t believe how much you can fit into it! It has little pockets and compartments to keep everything organized. Every traveler needs one of these!
I love this pouch - you can fit so much into it - it really is deceptive! Whether storing cables, everyday gear, or travel essentials, Tech Pouch offers unrivaled organization and ease of access. Origami-style pockets create enormous spatial efficiency, letting you pack more into a smaller space while keeping your items neatly organized and easy to find. This goes on every trip with me!
33. Small Power Strip for Travel
More electronics mean more need for plugs when you travel. Even nice hotels are sometimes deficient in plugs or in easy-to-reach plugs. When traveling internationally, I use my world adapter to plug into the wall, then plug this power strip into that. It’s a perfect gift for charging multiple things at once, and the long chord is a must!
More electronics mean more need for plugs when you travel. This compact travel power strip serves as the perfect charging station for any country and situation. It has a 3 ft. wrapped cord, 4 AC outlets, 2 USB-C chargers, and 2 USB-A ports to power up to 8 devices!
Travel Clothing
There are a number of brands I love for travel clothes. I’ve tested out many, but the ones I always love are Title Nine, Kuhl, prAna, and Royal Robbins, which are at the top of my list. These are companies that focus on comfortable clothes that are quick-drying, nonwrinkle, and rooted in sustainability. However, I also have a few specific clothing items that I feel are essential for travelers.
34. Compression Socks for Travel
This is a travel gift idea that can save someone’s life. As you are probably aware, I had a very big scare recently with blood clots that formed during a long-haul flight. I could have easily died, and many people do. Ever since I made it through that experience, I have been a huge advocate of wearing
Plus – use Discount code OTT15 – good for 15% off your order.
Compression socks are great for faster muscle recovery and to fight blood clots on long flights or long road trips.
PLUS - use discount code OTT15 for 15% off orders!
35. The Perfect Travel Pants
I fly a lot. And when you fly as much as I do, you want to be comfortable, but I don’t necessarily want to look like I’m wearing my pajamas! I’ve been testing out various pairs of ‘flying pants’ this year and have come up with my favorite. Try out the comfortable and lightweight KUHL Resistor Air Joggr. I love the KUHL brand for its high-quality outdoor gear. And if you don’t like the jogger style, they have a number of other travel-style pants.
What makes these a great travel pant? They are lightweight and yet slightly stretchy, water reisitant, and breathable. They are casual and comfortable, yet they don't look like your pajamas! And the best part - they have side pockets for your phone - which is probably my most important trait in a travel pant. We use our phone for everything in the airport and our tickets, so it needs to be easily accessible.
36. Traveler Scarf
Planes, trains, and buses tend to be cold, so I always love to have a colorful scarf with me that I can use to warm up a bit…and even use as a blanket if I have to. Plus – a scarf can dress up a typically boring travel wardrobe quickly. This is my favorite scarf because it can be used in many different ways!
I love products that have dual uses - and this awesome scarf is a traveler's dream! It's not just a scarf - it's a little shrug, a blanket, a poncho - there are multiple ways to wear it. The fabric is super soft and I always carry it onto the plane for when I inevitably get cold.
37. Wool Socks
My feet sweat a lot – but I’ve found a solution! Smartwool socks are GREAT for travel. They dry really fast, don’t hold odor, and stay warm in the cold and cool in the heat. Because they don’t get smelly, I only have to take a couple of pairs in my suitcase. I run in them, hike in them, and wear them to bed when my feet are cold and have no one to snuggle with. They are the only socks I travel with!
Merino wool is the perfect travel fabric. It doesn't hold odor, it's fast drying, and it is good for both hot and cold environments! Smartwool has many different styles from crew socks to hiking socks and more. You can also find different cushion levels. You'll only need a couple of pairs in your suitcase because they are so multi functional!
38. Branwyn Wool Underwear
Merino wool has made it into underwear. Once again, merino is a great fabric for underwear thanks to its natural ability to resist odor. Plus – they dry super fast for washing in the middle of your trip. Really – I take half the underwear that I used to on trips with this miracle fabric! Branwyn has focused on making undies and bras made from this miracle fabric! If you are still skeptical about wool underwear – Branwyn has a ‘First Pair Guarantee’ that allows you to try one pair of each unique style/size/color on your first order and return risk-free within 14 days of receiving your order.
39. Wallaroo Hats
If you have followed me on social media, then you know that I love hats; I normally pack at least 2 for each trip! They are perfect for sun protection, when I’m too lazy to shower, and bad hair days that happen frequently when I travel! Wallaroo is a Colorado company that specializes in style and stylish sun-protective hats. Each hat has SPF in them to help protect against skin cancer.
PLUS – many of them are foldable, and you can easily travel with them! They will still retain their shape. Check out their many styles and how to pack them!
Plus, use the OTTSWORLD20 promo code and get 20% off your Wallaroo purchase!
I love all of their styles and normally always have at least 2 of their different hats with me on every trip I take! All of their styles offer superb sun protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends the material of every Wallaroo hat with a UPF rating and a 3+ inch brim as an effective UV protectant. Plus - they have so many fashionable styles!
Use my Discount code, OTTSWORLD20, for an extra 20% regular priced items!
40. Klipsta Hat Clip
Since I always travel with a few hats, sometimes I just want to carry them on to make sure they don’t get damaged. And now, carrying on hats just got easier with the Klipsta hat clip! This heavy-duty magnet will keep your hat in tip-top shape as you travel through airport security, cities, and train stations.
Quickly and easily attach your Wallaroo hat (or any hat or baseball cap) to your bag for travel using the innovative Klipsta Hat Clip. Featuring a simple design that pairs well with any accessory, the smart clip keeps your hat securely fastened using the unique lock feature. Attach, lock, clip, and you’re good to go!
41. Tubes/Buffs
Buffs/Tubes are great for so many uses – a hat, scarf, eye mask, tube top, washcloth, helmet liner, and even handkerchief. My favorite brand I’ve recently used is Turtle Fur. They have some of the softest fabric around – and you want it to be soft if it’s around your neck or head! I’ve used mine for every single one of those situations… and never leave ‘home’ without it!
Active Performance Neck Gaitor made of Comfort Shell™ Lite Supersoft fabric, built specifically for warmer weather, is a match made in heaven for the versatile performance of our beloved Totally Tubular™. A must have in your backpack for any summer outdoor adventure.
Travel Gifts That Inspire
Looking for some travel inspiration? Need to know where to go, how to hike the Appalachian Trail, or how to travel on a budget? I’ve had a number of friends finish some books this year about travel. Here are my favorite travel gift ideas when you are looking for inspiration!
42. Artistic Gifts for Travelers
I also recommend that you check out my Unique Gifts for Travelers Gift List here. I curated this list of Inspiring travel gifts from Etsy and it has some really fun ideas on it! These are all one-of-a-kind artistic gifts. Like these customized state maps for walls and hats made by my niece!
During the pandemic, my niece took up embroidery and started free-styling her own designs to put on hats, sweatshirts, pet collars, and walls. She typically focuses her designs on flowers because she’s a plant lover. I love everything she does (because I’m a proud aunt), but when she started making state maps with state flowers and iconic sites – I got really excited! I asked her to do a Colorado design for me.
You can tell her what you want/like, and she’ll put together a design for you – or you can look through the designs that are available in her shop.
43. Push Pin Globe
Every traveler loves a map – this is one of my favorite gift ideas for travel lovers! This cool push pin globe is a great way for people to track their travels, as well as get inspiration on where to go next.
The perfect was to track your travels around the globe. Durable Steel Base - 7.3 Inches. Great for Educational Purposes & Mapping Travels. Comes with 100 colored pins.
44. Trip Chaser Card Game
If you are simply an armchair traveler – you can still travel through this cool new card game. Just like actual travel, expect both stumbling blocks and enriching experiences along the way as you play the game. You’ll rely on the luck of drawing a good event card or proactively buying travel insurance to save you from the unexpected! It’s like real travel but without the suitcase, spending, or stress.
Prove who’s the most travel-savvy by buying, bartering, and gambling your way to various destinations. The more challenging a destination is to get to from North America, the more points it’s worth! Whoever has the most points at the end of the game wins humble bragging rights for life. This game was created by a couple of my friends who are world travelers!
Ages 10 and Up • 2-6 Players
45. For the Person Planning an Upcoming Trip
Ultimate Journeys for Two I know that I really specialize in solo travel, however this year I had a couple of good friends publish this awesome travel idea book for couples. If you are trying to figure out where to go, check out Ultimate Journeys for Two for ideas!
46. For the Person Who Loves to Hike
Make sure you pick up a copy of the External Hiking Book from my friend Dustin. He finished the Appalachian Trail…but not without a few bumps along the way!
47. For the Person Who Loves Glamping
My friends Mike and Anne Howard have been glamping all over the US and have put together a book about this new craze sweeping the travel world. Learn about all of the incredible places you can stay in style in Comfortably Wild
48. For the Budget Traveler
Looking for affordable experience gifts for a friend? Long-time friend Matt Kepnes wrote this book about how to travel cheaply but still have a rich experience all over the world! Read Travel the World on $50 a Day.
49. For the Person Planning a Road Trip
Yet another one of my friends recently wrote this book on road trips. It’s actually more of a journal and activity book – and it’s packed with great ideas of what to do on the road. She herself is a road-tripping expert and now she’s put all of that expertise into a book full of things to keep you occupied on a road trip. If your friends have a road trip on the horizon, be sure to get them this before they leave!
Do you have a road trip on the horizon? Then you must check out this book by friend Val! It contains everything you need to have and record an epic road trip! Enjoy fun games and challenges to pass the time on your next road trip and have a keepsake to look back on for years to come with this entertaining must-have for your next vacation.
50. For the Person who is a Curious Traveler
Forget old-fashioned travel books with cookie-cutter advice on where to go and what to do. With this hip, ingenious, and creative companion, you’ll have a unique and surprising experience anywhere you go. Simply follow the prompts, and you’ll find new adventures on any trip. This book will teach you how to explore – the perfect gift for a traveler!
Forget old-fashioned travel books with cookie-cutter advice on where to go and what to do. With this hip, ingenious and creative companion, you'll have a unique and surprising experience anywhere you go.
Shop My Complete Travel Gear Guides on my Amazon Store
This list really is only the new stuff I discovered and used this year in my travels, however, to see a complete list of all of my favorite travel gift ideas go shop at my Ottsworld Amazon store for all of my travel gear must-haves!
Pin It For Later!
Disclosure:
This post contains some affiliate links. If you choose to purchase items through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help reduce the costs of running this site
Still don’t know what to get the traveler on your list? Then just leave a comment with your travel gear buying questions below and I’ll be happy to be your personal shopper! I’m much better at spending other people’s money rather than my own!
Wonderful list, thanks! What’s the best (budget) tripod for a traveling fine art photographer?
There’s a couple I use – however neither are really that budget – it’s hard to find a budget tripod! I have the Gorilla Pod Focus (which is strong enough to hold pro DSLR and zoom lens. And I really love the 3 legged thing Brian tripod too – http://www.3leggedthing.com/evolution-3-brian-carbon-fiber-tripod-kit-airhed-blue.html More spendy though but really heavy duty. But the best budget tripod there is – is simply a great quality low light lens. I use a 15-55mm F 2.8 – and that can handle many low light situations well enough that I don’t need to drag along a tripod. Always start with a great lens!
I want the LensCoat Raincoat and Smartwool socks for Christmas!
I hope you get them! The Raincoat is awesome and comes in different sizes – I adore mine!
Great list! I used to travel with BOSE headphones all the time but had two issues with them: 1) they are big and sometimes too big if I was just carrying a small pack 2) I found them uncomfortable for sleeping (if I fell asleep with them on). So know I just go old school and buy a pack of foam earplugs.
I love buffs! A must have for any outdoor adventure. Still can’t figure out how to tie them in all the different ways!
True – you can’t really sleep with the earphones – however – it’s crazy how much I enjoy shutting off the rest of the noise in the world and love just being in my head – so for that it’s worth it for me. 🙂 Buffs rule!!
nice list.
I will take the advice on the socks ^^
best regards.
Great! I hope you like them…that’s the only socks I carry in my bag…winter or summer!
You’ve gone so many places. But i never hear of you ever getting sick from the food or water? Nor a close call from any adventures you’ve been on. And nothing on malaria pills, etc. I know a lot of people who travel and certain places require cautions. Are you in a magic bubble or really lucky? My hats off to you either way. I Love reading your blogs and experiences out there! Thank you for sharing your lives adventures and hot tips on gear you prefer!
Safe Travels & Blessings!
Hi Vikki – thanks for your question. You are right – I haven’t ever been really sick from food or water. I have a pretty tough stomach thankfully as I don’t take any precautions and never travel with purel or anything. I of course have had various unpleasant days from food – but nothing like food poisoning. I don’t use malaria drugs as I really dislike them and the side effects. I just bring really powerful bug spray and try to avoid getting bit. However I’ve been pretty lucky on that count too considering i lived in Vietnam for a year and had a number of friends get sick from mosquitoes. I”m sure my luck will run out some day. But I tend to not worry about it – I’m more worried about getting in a traffic accident or something like that in a foreign country – with some of the buses I’ve ridden that seems more likely!
Do you have a travel scale that you can recommend? We’ve tried a couple, but they just haven’t been able to maintain accuracy after a few months.
I’ve never actually used a travel scale before so I don’t have any good recs! I’m so sorry! I think I”m just so used to knowing what 25 kg is that I guess pretty damn well!
This post is going to make me spend lots of money!
I love the buff – have had one for many years and it comes in handy for me whether I’m climbing a mountain or trying to not choke on car fumes while riding on the back of a motorbike.
Thanks for sharing Sherry!
Smart wool socks! Yes!
“cube has t-shits” – Thanks for the laugh 🙂
Nice list. vote for buffs. Especially, if you travel to my country (Vietnam) because beach and sun everywhere.
I do not know how i can praise your article its really really brilliant article with outdoor travel gears which helps to every travel how and what they can buy before going on tour.
Hi Sherry,
Your article came in handy. I had a hard time thinking of what Christmas gifts to get for my husband and my best friend who are travel fanatics. I am considering the Anatomie Lightweight Travel Coat, Cabeau neck pillow and the Stasher bags. And the LuluLemon Vinyasa Scarf for myself! (“,)
Have you tried the neck pillow? Is it good? Thanks for sharing!
Yes – it’s the pillow I have and I love it.
Thank you so much for sharing!
I would like to say that this list of gifts is more than enough to get a clear idea of what you should give to your favorite person. little things can make difference, I Recently give my friend who likes travel as I do noise-canceling headphones and he found it a great gift. so I’m sure this list will help most people to select the right gift for their belongings.
Thank you for helping and guiding people to make their travels a success.
Glad you enjoyed it Flora! Happy Holidays!
Beware of compression socks if you have arthritic hands. It is impossible to get them on.
I pump my feet and stretch and wiggle around instead. My doctor suggested pumping my feet.
I learned how to put them on here – https://vimvigr.com/blogs/our-blog/how-to-put-on-compression-socks?gclid=Cj0KCQjw6pOTBhCTARIsAHF23fK1oF2X5S1FzNM7DocwTqubiOZuMf-gzD0OZAQHAvB_uyGG0UkKYnoaAti9EALw_wcB
And it works great for me!